Elle Kennedy’s The Mistake, the second book in the Off-Campus series, has found a new audience through its adaptation as an series. For readers familiar with the series, this installment follows hockey player John Logan and his unexpected relationship with Grace Ivers, a character introduced in the first book. The novel fits squarely within the new adult contemporary romance genre, often consumed by readers looking for low-stakes emotional drama set against a college backdrop.
In real-world usage, this book is typically read for entertainment during commutes, late-night sessions, or as a break from heavier genres. It’s the kind of story you pick up when you want a predictable but satisfying narrative arc. The plot centers on Logan’s reputation as a “mistake”—a player who avoids commitment—and his gradual growth as he navigates a relationship with Grace, who is more grounded and less forgiving of his past behavior. The key functional features here are the dual perspectives (alternating between Logan and Grace), which provide insight into both characters’ motivations, and a pacing that keeps the story moving without dragging.
One notable strength is Kennedy’s ability to write dialogue that feels natural for college-aged characters. The banter between the leads is often witty, and the supporting cast from the first book reappears in ways that feel organic rather than forced. However, the novel has a clear limitation: the central conflict relies heavily on miscommunication and a lack of transparency, which can feel repetitive for readers who prefer more mature relationship dynamics. The resolution, while satisfying, comes through a grand gesture that might strike some as overly convenient.
Compared to other college romances like those in Sarina Bowen’s The Ivy Years series, The Mistake leans more into humor and light drama rather than tackling deeper issues like class disparity or trauma. Bowen’s series, for instance, often has a more serious undertone, while Kennedy’s Off-Campus books prioritize entertainment and quick emotional payoffs. This makes The Mistake a better fit for readers seeking a lighter, less demanding read, but it may leave those looking for substance or complexity wanting more.
Who is this book for? It’s suitable for fans of new adult romance who enjoy sports settings (especially hockey) and stories about reformed playboys. Readers who liked the first book in the series, The Deal, will likely find this one consistent in tone and quality. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a book that translates well to a screen adaptation—the series captures the core dynamics without major deviations. On the other hand, this book is not ideal for readers who dislike tropes like miscommunication as a plot device, or those who prefer romances with older protagonists or more realistic relationship challenges. If you’re sensitive to characters making decisions that feel driven by plot convenience rather than personality, this might frustrate you.
In terms of performance expectations, The Mistake delivers exactly what it promises: a competent, engaging romance with a satisfying happy ending. It doesn’t break new ground, but it doesn’t need to. The writing is clean and accessible, though some prose can feel a bit formulaic during emotional peaks. For readers who value character growth, Logan’s arc is the standout here—he actually changes in believable ways, which is more than can be said for some similar protagonists in the genre. Grace, while likeable, sometimes comes across as too forgiving, which may weaken the tension for some readers.
Ultimately, The Mistake is a solid entry in a popular series, and the adaptation adds a new layer of accessibility. If you’re in the mood for a romance that doesn’t demand much intellectual effort but still offers emotional beats, this is a reliable choice. Just don’t expect it to challenge your expectations of the genre.