The Score is the third book in Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series, continuing the story of college hockey players and their romantic entanglements. This installment focuses on Dean Di-Laurentis, a charismatic but commitment-phobic hockey star, and his unexpected relationship with Allie Hayes, a determined pre-med student. The book is a new adult (NA) romance, blending sports themes with coming-of-age dynamics.
In real-world usage, this book is often read by fans of NA romance who enjoy fast-paced, dialogue-heavy stories set in a college environment. It’s the kind of book you might pick up for a weekend binge-read or as a light escape during commutes. The narrative switches between Dean and Allie’s points of view, offering insight into both characters’ motivations and insecurities.
Key functional features of the novel include its dual-perspective storytelling, which allows readers to understand Dean’s internal conflict between his playboy reputation and growing feelings for Allie. The book also incorporates realistic challenges like academic pressure, family expectations, and the social dynamics of being a college athlete. Kennedy’s writing style is conversational and direct, with a focus on banter and emotional vulnerability.
However, there are notable limitations. The plot follows a fairly predictable enemies-to-lovers arc, which may feel formulaic to readers familiar with the genre. Dean’s initial womanizing behavior can be off-putting, and some readers might find his redemption arc rushed. The pacing also lags in the middle, with repetitive internal monologues about commitment issues. Additionally, the resolution ties up neatly, lacking the messiness that might feel more authentic to real relationships.
Compared to other new adult sports romances, like Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers series or Jamie Bennett’s Woodsmen series, The Score leans heavier on college-campus drama and less on professional sports logistics. Where Bowen’s books often include detailed hockey gameplay, Kennedy focuses more on the characters’ personal lives and social scenes. This makes it more accessible for readers who prefer emotional arcs over sports specifics, but it may disappoint those seeking deeper athletic authenticity.
- Strengths: Strong character development for Dean, witty dialogue, and a balanced portrayal of Allie’s ambitions. The book handles themes like consent and emotional growth with nuance for the genre.
- Weaknesses: Predictable plot beats, a protagonist who can be hard to root for initially, and a somewhat sanitized portrayal of college party culture.
This book is suitable for readers who enjoy steamy, character-driven romances with a touch of humor and don’t mind a simplified view of college life. It’s a good pick for fans of the Off-Campus series looking to complete the set, or those who liked The Deal and The Mistake and want more from this fictional world.
It is not suitable for readers seeking literary depth, complex subplots, or realistic portrayals of serious relationship challenges like long-term conflict. Those who dislike alpha-male archetypes or find college settings juvenile may want to skip it. If you prefer slower-burn romances with more subtlety, this book’s direct approach might feel too on-the-nose.
Overall, The Score delivers what it promises: an entertaining, low-stakes romance with a flawed but redeemable hero. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s a solid entry in its category for those who know what they’re signing up for.
