Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Flirty, Humorous, Romantic, Emotional
- Read it if
- You enjoy steamy, witty college romance with a 'fake dating' trope and a strong focus on character development and overcoming past trauma.
- Skip it if
- You prefer low-heat romance, dislike sports settings, or are uncomfortable with characters navigating past sexual assault.
The Deal Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
A Desperate Plea and an Unlikely Alliance
Hannah Wells, a quiet music major at Briar University, has a secret crush on Justin Kohl, a charming football player. Her past trauma makes her hesitant to pursue him. Meanwhile, Garrett Graham, the hockey team captain, faces academic probation due to a failing GPA, which threatens his professional hockey dreams. Desperate, Garrett asks Hannah, known for her academic skill, to tutor him in ethics. Hannah initially refuses, finding Garrett arrogant. After some discussion, Hannah agrees to tutor him, but only if he pretends to date her to make Justin jealous and help her overcome her shyness around men, especially after a traumatic past experience. Garrett, seeing it as his only option to stay on the team, agrees to her terms, starting their unusual arrangement.
Tutoring Sessions and Growing Pains
Their tutoring sessions begin awkwardly. Hannah finds Garrett immature and easily distracted, while Garrett is frustrated by Hannah's rigid study methods. As they spend more time together, Hannah starts to see beyond Garrett's cocky exterior. She notices his genuine passion for hockey and his intelligence, despite his academic struggles. Garrett, in turn, is surprised by Hannah's sharp wit and dry humor, realizing she is not just a quiet bookworm. He also observes her discomfort with physical contact and her guarded nature, which makes him curious. During one session, Garrett comments on Hannah's appearance, which she misinterprets as an insult, leading to an argument that forces them to confront their initial ideas about each other.
The Fake Date and a Real Kiss
Garrett and Hannah attend a party as their first 'fake date' to make Justin Kohl jealous. Hannah feels uncomfortable, but Garrett, surprisingly attentive, tries to make her feel at ease. Justin does notice them, and his reaction gives Hannah a small boost of confidence. Later, after leaving the party, they share a moment outside Hannah's dorm. Garrett kisses Hannah. The kiss is intense and passionate, surprising both of them. It is more than a casual, pretend kiss and creates a spark between them, making them question their agreement and their growing feelings. Hannah is blindsided by its intensity, and Garrett by its raw emotion.
Lines Blur and Feelings Deepen
The unexpected kiss leads to a night of passion at Garrett's apartment. Hannah, despite her past trauma and initial apprehension about physical intimacy, is drawn to Garrett. Their connection is raw and powerful, and they spend the night together. The morning after is awkward but also revealing, as they both deal with what happened. Hannah is scared by the intensity of her feelings and her vulnerability. Garrett is surprised by his deep connection to Hannah. They agree to continue their 'arrangement' while acknowledging the clear shift in their relationship, silently admitting their deal is no longer just about tutoring and fake dating.
Navigating the 'Friends with Benefits' Zone
After their passionate night, Garrett and Hannah decide to start a 'friends with benefits' arrangement, hoping to keep things casual while fulfilling their original deal. However, their physical and emotional connection grows with each encounter. Garrett becomes possessive and openly jealous when other guys show interest in Hannah, especially Justin Kohl. Hannah, despite trying to stay detached, finds herself relying more on Garrett's presence and comfort. They spend more time together outside of tutoring and sex, sharing personal stories and vulnerabilities. This period has a constant push and pull, as they both try to deny the obvious romantic feelings developing between them, fearing commitment and potential heartbreak.
A Confession and a New Threat
As their bond strengthens, Hannah tells Garrett about her past trauma—a sexual assault she experienced in high school. This explains her guarded nature and her previous reluctance towards intimacy. Garrett is deeply affected by her confession, offering her constant support and understanding, which strengthens their emotional connection. He becomes protective of her. Soon after, the hockey team faces a new challenge: a rival player, who has a history of violence and a grudge against Garrett, targets him. This external threat creates tension and puts Garrett under pressure, while also showing his protective instincts towards Hannah.
Jealousy and a Misunderstanding
Garrett's jealousy over Hannah's continued interactions with Justin Kohl reaches a breaking point. He struggles with the 'friends with benefits' label, realizing he wants more than just a casual arrangement with Hannah. A misunderstanding happens when Hannah believes Garrett is still pursuing other girls, leading her to question his sincerity and their evolving relationship. Garrett, frustrated by her doubts and his inability to say his true feelings, acts out. This ends in a heated argument where harsh words are exchanged, and Hannah, feeling hurt and confused, pulls away from him, creating a rift between them. She retreats, fearing she made a mistake by opening up to him.
Garrett's Grand Gesture
After the argument, Garrett is miserable. He realizes he loves Hannah and cannot imagine his life without her. Encouraged by his teammates and his own conscience, Garrett decides to fight for her. He makes a grand, public gesture by showing up at one of Hannah's music performances. In front of an audience, he confesses his true feelings for her, apologizing for his jealousy and his past behavior, and openly declaring his love. This public display of affection and vulnerability deeply moves Hannah, who sees his sincerity and the depth of his feelings, recognizing his love is genuine and strong enough to overcome her fears and past traumas.
Reconciliation and a New Beginning
Moved by Garrett's heartfelt declaration, Hannah accepts his apology and acknowledges her own love for him. They reconcile, officially moving past their 'friends with benefits' arrangement to become a committed couple. Their relationship grows as they navigate college life, Garrett's hockey career, and Hannah's healing process. They learn to communicate openly and support each other through their individual challenges. Hannah finds strength and confidence in Garrett's love, while Garrett finds stability and emotional depth with Hannah. They commit to building a future together, with Garrett pursuing his professional hockey dreams and Hannah continuing her music studies, now with a strong, loving partner by her side.
Facing the Past and Embracing the Future
Later in the story, Hannah confronts her past trauma directly when her assaulter, a former high school acquaintance, resurfaces or is mentioned. With Garrett's support, she finds the courage to process her feelings and seek further healing. Garrett acts as her rock, providing comfort and protection, strengthening their bond. Hannah, with Garrett's help, fully embraces her strength and resilience, no longer letting her past define her present or future. Their relationship is one of deep trust, love, and mutual respect, showing their ability to overcome significant personal obstacles together and build a lasting foundation for their future.
The Deal Characters
Hannah Wells
Protagonist
A reserved music major with a traumatic past, seeking to overcome her fears and find love.
Hannah is an intelligent, witty, and initially reserved music major at Briar University. She is an excellent student, but her confidence is deeply affected by a past sexual assault in high school, making her wary of physical intimacy and relationships. She has a dry sense of humor and a strong sense of integrity. Her internal struggle revolves around her desire for a normal romantic life versus her fear of vulnerability. She's crushing on Justin Kohl, but lacks the confidence to pursue him, leading her to make a deal with Garrett. Throughout the story, she learns to trust, open up, and ultimately heal.
Relationships: Garrett Graham (Fake boyfriend turned real boyfriend, her main love interest and emotional support.); Justin Kohl (Her initial crush, a football player.); Sabrina James (Her best friend and roommate.)
Garrett Graham
Protagonist
The cocky but charming captain of the hockey team, whose academic struggles threaten his future.
Garrett is the star hockey player and captain of the Briar University team. He's known for his cocky attitude, good looks, and popularity, but beneath the surface, he's fiercely dedicated to his dream of playing professional hockey. His academic performance, however, is jeopardizing his future, leading him to seek Hannah's help. He is surprisingly perceptive and protective, showing a softer side as he gets to know Hannah. He's loyal to his friends and family and, despite his initial playboy persona, deeply values honesty and commitment.
Relationships: Hannah Wells (His tutor turned girlfriend, main love interest, and the person who helps him mature.); Logan (His best friend and teammate.); Dean Di Laurentis (His friend and teammate.); John Tucker (His friend and teammate.)
Justin Kohl
Supporting
A charming football player who is Hannah's initial crush.
Justin Kohl is a popular football player at Briar University and the object of Hannah's initial affection. He is generally portrayed as attractive and seemingly nice, but he lacks the depth and genuine interest that Garrett eventually shows Hannah. He serves as a catalyst for Hannah and Garrett's initial 'fake dating' arrangement. His presence throughout the story often triggers Garrett's jealousy and helps to highlight the developing genuine feelings between the main protagonists. He represents the kind of 'safe' crush Hannah thought she wanted before realizing what she truly needed.
Relationships: Hannah Wells (Her initial crush.); Garrett Graham (Rival for Hannah's attention.)
Sabrina James
Supporting
Hannah's sarcastic, fiercely loyal best friend and roommate.
Sabrina is Hannah's best friend and roommate, known for her sharp wit, blunt honesty, and protective nature. She is intelligent and ambitious, with a no-nonsense attitude. Sabrina is initially skeptical of Garrett but quickly becomes a supportive confidante for Hannah, offering advice and a listening ear as Hannah navigates her complex feelings and past trauma. She often provides comedic relief and a grounded perspective. Her strong friendship with Hannah is a key aspect of Hannah's support system.
Relationships: Hannah Wells (Best friend and roommate.); Dean Di Laurentis (Future love interest (hinted at in this book, explored in 'The Mistake').)
Logan
Supporting
Garrett's best friend and a fellow hockey player, known for his laid-back demeanor.
Logan is Garrett's best friend and a teammate on the Briar hockey team. He's generally more laid-back than Garrett but also very loyal. He often offers advice to Garrett, particularly regarding his feelings for Hannah, and provides a sounding board for his friend's struggles. Logan is part of the core group of hockey players, and his interactions with Garrett and the others provide insight into their friendship dynamics and the team's camaraderie. He is supportive of Garrett and Hannah's relationship.
Relationships: Garrett Graham (Best friend and teammate.); Dean Di Laurentis (Friend and teammate.); John Tucker (Friend and teammate.)
Dean Di Laurentis
Supporting
A charming and flirtatious hockey player, part of Garrett's inner circle.
Dean is another one of Garrett's close friends and teammates. He is known for his confident, often flirtatious, and fun-loving personality. He's a key member of the hockey team's social group, often instigating playful banter and providing comic relief. Despite his playboy image, Dean is fiercely loyal to his friends and supportive of Garrett's relationship with Hannah. He often provides a perspective that contrasts with Garrett's more intense approach, adding dynamic to their friendship. He also has a noticeable attraction to Sabrina.
Relationships: Garrett Graham (Friend and teammate.); Sabrina James (Friend and future love interest.); Logan (Friend and teammate.)
John Tucker
Supporting
A quieter, more grounded member of the hockey team and Garrett's friend.
John Tucker is a member of Garrett's close-knit group of hockey friends. He is generally portrayed as more quiet and grounded compared to Dean and Logan. He offers a steady presence within the group and is a reliable friend. While not as vocal, Tucker's loyalty to Garrett and his teammates is clear. He supports Garrett's relationship with Hannah and is often present during their group hangouts, contributing to the overall team dynamic and friendship circle.
Relationships: Garrett Graham (Friend and teammate.); Logan (Friend and teammate.); Dean Di Laurentis (Friend and teammate.)
Coach Hayes
Supporting
The demanding but fair coach of the Briar hockey team.
Coach Hayes is the head coach of the Briar University hockey team. He is a strict and demanding figure, primarily concerned with his team's performance and the players' academic eligibility. His warnings about Garrett's plummeting GPA are the primary catalyst for Garrett seeking Hannah's tutoring help. While tough, he is fair and genuinely wants his players to succeed both on and off the ice. He represents the external pressure Garrett faces to maintain his academic standing for his hockey career.
Relationships: Garrett Graham (His player, whom he pushes academically and athletically.)
The Deal Themes
Healing from Trauma
Hannah's journey is rooted in her recovery from a past sexual assault. The book explores how this trauma affects her ability to trust, engage in intimacy, and form relationships. Garrett's patience, understanding, and support help her heal, showing that love can help overcome deep fear and pain. Her willingness to confide in Garrett and his protectiveness are central to this theme, as seen when she tells him about her past.
“He was teaching her that being touched could be a good thing. That it could be wanted. That it could be safe.”
Identity and Self-Discovery
Both Hannah and Garrett grow significantly. Hannah learns to reclaim her confidence and confront her fears, moving beyond her identity as a victim to embrace her strength and desire. Garrett, initially defined by his hockey ambitions and cocky persona, discovers a deeper capacity for love, commitment, and emotional openness. Their relationship forces them to confront who they are and who they want to become, individually and as a couple. Garrett's realization that he wants more than casual hookups, and Hannah's journey to embrace intimacy, show this theme.
“He was a whirlwind, a beautiful, chaotic storm, and she was willingly caught in his eye.”
Challenging First Impressions
The initial dislike and ideas Hannah and Garrett have about each other are central to the plot. Hannah sees Garrett as an arrogant jock, and Garrett views Hannah as a quiet nerd. As they spend time together, their interactions slowly reveal hidden depths, vulnerabilities, and unexpected compatibility. This theme shows the importance of looking beyond appearances and giving people a chance to show their true selves, as seen by their surprise at the intensity of their first kiss and subsequent connection.
“He was loud and obnoxious and everything she thought she hated in a guy. And yet, she couldn’t stop thinking about him.”
The Nature of Love and Commitment
The transition from a 'fake dating' and 'friends with benefits' arrangement to a committed, loving relationship is a core part of this theme. The book explores the struggles of defining a relationship, the fear of openness, and the eventual realization that true love requires honesty, trust, and support. Garrett's grand gesture and Hannah's acceptance of his love show their commitment to each other, illustrating that love is more than just physical attraction; it is about emotional connection and mutual respect.
“He wasn't just a distraction. He was the cure.”
Ambition and Sacrifice
Garrett's motivation for the deal stems from his ambition to play professional hockey, an ambition threatened by his academic performance. This theme explores the sacrifices and compromises individuals make to achieve their dreams, and how those dreams can change or be recontextualized when love enters the picture. While Garrett does not abandon his hockey dreams, his relationship with Hannah brings a new dimension to his life, showing that ambition can exist with, and even be strengthened by, personal relationships, as he works harder academically for her.
“Hockey was his life. But Hannah... Hannah was everything else.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Fake Dating Trope
The central premise that brings the two protagonists together.
The 'fake dating' trope is the primary plot device that initiates Hannah and Garrett's relationship. Hannah proposes the arrangement to make her crush, Justin, jealous and to gain confidence, while Garrett agrees to secure tutoring. This setup forces two characters who initially dislike each other into close proximity, creating opportunities for them to discover hidden depths and develop genuine feelings. It provides a convenient, low-stakes reason for their interactions before the romantic tension becomes undeniable, allowing their emotional connection to build organically under the guise of pretense.
Friends with Benefits Arrangement
A temporary relationship status that allows for physical intimacy without immediate commitment.
Following their initial passionate encounter, Hannah and Garrett attempt a 'friends with benefits' arrangement. This device allows them to explore their undeniable physical attraction and deepening emotional connection without explicitly labeling their relationship as romantic or committing to a serious partnership. It serves as a transitional phase where the characters can test the waters, experience intimacy, and grapple with their growing feelings while trying to maintain a sense of detachment. Ultimately, it highlights the futility of trying to keep their profound connection casual, leading to the eventual desire for a committed relationship.
Past Trauma as a Barrier
Hannah's sexual assault trauma creates internal and external conflict.
Hannah's past sexual assault is a significant plot device that creates internal conflict for her and shapes her interactions, particularly regarding intimacy and trust. It explains her guarded nature, her initial aversion to physical contact, and her fear of vulnerability. This trauma serves as a major obstacle to her forming a healthy romantic relationship. Garrett's understanding and patience in the face of this trauma become a testament to his character and the depth of his love, allowing Hannah to slowly heal and trust again, driving her emotional arc.
Academic Probation
Garrett's academic struggles provide the catalyst for seeking Hannah's help.
Garrett's impending academic probation due to his failing GPA is the direct catalyst that forces him to seek out Hannah for tutoring. This device creates the initial conflict and necessity for their interaction. Without the threat to his hockey career, Garrett would likely never have approached Hannah, and their paths might not have crossed in such a significant way. It establishes the stakes for Garrett and provides a practical, believable reason for the 'deal' to be made, setting the entire plot in motion.
The Deal Quotes
“I'm not looking for a relationship. I'm looking for a distraction.”
“You can't help who you fall for.”
“I'm not a project. I'm a person.”
“Sometimes the best things in life are the ones you don't plan for.”
“I don't do relationships. I do hockey.”
“You make me want to be a better man.”
“Love isn't about finding someone perfect. It's about finding someone who makes you want to be better.”
“I'm not afraid of commitment. I'm afraid of losing myself in it.”
“Sometimes you have to take a risk to get what you want.”
“You're not just a distraction anymore. You're everything.”
“Hockey is my life, but you're my heart.”
“We started as a deal, but we ended up as destiny.”
“I don't need saving. I need someone who stands by me.”
“The heart wants what it wants, even when the mind says it's a bad idea.”
“In the end, the only deal that mattered was the one we made with our hearts.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is the main reason Hannah Wells initially agrees to tutor Garrett Graham?
- She needs extra money for tuition
- She wants to improve her own grades by teaching
- In exchange for a pretend date to make her crush jealous
- She is forced to by the university as part of a program
Show answer
C. In exchange for a pretend date to make her crush jealous Hannah makes a deal with Garrett: she'll tutor him to improve his GPA if he pretends to date her to get the attention of her crush, Justin Kohl. This arrangement forms the central premise of their relationship in the book.
Question 2
What is Garrett Graham's primary career goal that is threatened at the beginning of the story?
- Becoming a professional football player
- Playing professional hockey after graduation
- Getting into medical school
- Starting his own business
Show answer
B. Playing professional hockey after graduation Garrett's lifelong dream is to play professional hockey, but his declining GPA puts his position on the college hockey team and future prospects at risk, which is why he desperately needs Hannah's tutoring help.
Question 3
What is Hannah's main personal insecurity that affects her romantic life?
- She feels unattractive compared to other girls on campus
- She has trust issues from past relationships
- She lacks confidence in sex and seduction due to past trauma
- She worries about balancing career and relationships
Show answer
C. She lacks confidence in sex and seduction due to past trauma Despite being confident in other areas, Hannah carries 'baggage' when it comes to sex and seduction, which makes her hesitant to pursue romantic relationships openly, leading her to use the pretend date scheme.
Question 4
How does Garrett initially describe Hannah when they first start interacting?
- As shy and reserved
- As sarcastic and brunette
- As overly serious and studious
- As friendly and outgoing
Show answer
B. As sarcastic and brunette Garrett's internal narration refers to Hannah as 'a sarcastic brunette,' highlighting her witty personality and appearance, which contrasts with his initial perception of her as just a tutor.
Question 5
What event marks the turning point where Garrett realizes his feelings for Hannah are more than pretend?
- When they have their first study session together
- After their first public date as part of the deal
- When one unexpected kiss leads to wild sex
- When Hannah helps him pass a major exam
Show answer
C. When one unexpected kiss leads to wild sex The book describes how 'one unexpected kiss leads to the wildest sex of both their lives,' which makes Garrett understand that their arrangement is no longer just pretend and he wants a real relationship with Hannah.
Question 6
Which theme is most prominently explored through Hannah and Garrett's fake dating arrangement?
- The importance of academic success over personal relationships
- How pretending can lead to discovering genuine emotions
- The challenges of long-distance relationships in college
- The impact of family expectations on career choices
Show answer
B. How pretending can lead to discovering genuine emotions The central theme involves how a transactional, pretend relationship evolves into real love as Hannah and Garrett navigate their deal, showing that sometimes facades can reveal deeper truths about compatibility and desire.
Question 7
What is Garrett's position on the hockey team that adds to his pressure to maintain grades?
- Goalie
- Defenseman
- Captain
- Assistant coach
Show answer
C. Captain Garrett is described as 'the cocky captain of the hockey team,' which emphasizes his leadership role and the high stakes involved in keeping his position, motivating him to accept Hannah's tutoring deal.
Question 8
Why does Hannah specifically choose Garrett for her pretend dating scheme instead of someone else?
- Because he is the most popular guy on campus
- Because she has had a secret crush on him for years
- Because he needs academic help and she can leverage that
- Because they are already close friends
Show answer
C. Because he needs academic help and she can leverage that Hannah targets Garrett because she knows about his academic struggles and sees an opportunity to propose a mutually beneficial deal: tutoring for a pretend date, making him a practical choice rather than an emotional one initially.
Question 9
How does the book contrast Hannah's confidence in her daily life with her romantic insecurities?
- She is a top student but fears academic failure
- She is socially outgoing but avoids intimate relationships
- She is assertive in most areas but hesitant about sex and seduction
- She is financially independent but relies on others emotionally
Show answer
C. She is assertive in most areas but hesitant about sex and seduction The narrative highlights Hannah as confident 'in every other area of her life' except when it comes to romantic and sexual matters, where past baggage makes her retreat into schemes like the pretend date rather than direct pursuit.
Question 10
What does Garrett mean when he thinks 'pretend isn't going to cut it' after their intimate encounter?
- He wants to end the tutoring sessions because he's improved enough
- He realizes he needs to focus more on hockey and less on dating
- He desires a real relationship with Hannah beyond their initial deal
- He plans to confess the scheme to Hannah's crush to be honest
Show answer
C. He desires a real relationship with Hannah beyond their initial deal This thought signifies Garrett's emotional shift from viewing their arrangement as purely transactional to wanting authenticity, as the physical and emotional connection they've experienced makes the 'pretend' aspect feel inadequate and sparks his pursuit of a genuine romance.
The Deal FAQ
What is 'The Deal' by Elle Kennedy about?
'The Deal' follows college student Hannah Wells, who tutors hockey team captain Garrett Graham to improve his grades in exchange for him pretending to date her to make her crush jealous. Their fake relationship unexpectedly turns real as they navigate attraction, personal baggage, and Garrett's professional hockey ambitions.
Why should I read 'The Deal'?
Readers should pick up 'The Deal' for its witty banter, steamy romance, and relatable character growth. The fake-dating trope is executed with humor and heart, exploring themes of trust, vulnerability, and overcoming past trauma in a college setting.
What is the background/setting of 'The Deal'?
The story is set at Briar University, a fictional New England college, focusing on campus life, hockey culture, and academic pressures. The setting emphasizes the contrast between Hannah's studious nature and Garrett's athletic commitments.
What are the most memorable quotes from 'The Deal'?
Notable quotes include Garrett's declaration, 'I want to be the one who makes you feel good,' and Hannah's realization, 'Sometimes the person you're most afraid of is the one who sees you the clearest.' These lines capture the emotional core of their relationship.
What writing style does Elle Kennedy use in 'The Deal'?
Elle Kennedy employs a dual first-person perspective, alternating between Hannah and Garrett's viewpoints with contemporary, conversational prose. The style blends humor, emotional depth, and steamy romance, keeping the pace engaging and character-driven.
What minor details add significant meaning to 'The Deal'?
Small details like Hannah's habit of biting her lip when nervous and Garrett's protective stance during her panic attacks subtly reinforce their growing intimacy. The recurring mention of Hannah's 'baggage' ties into her trauma, making her eventual trust in Garrett more impactful.
What are some subtle foreshadowing moments in 'The Deal'?
Early scenes foreshadow the romance, such as Garrett's annoyance masking attraction when Hannah challenges him, and Hannah's initial discomfort around him hinting at deeper emotional barriers. Their first tutoring session's tension subtly predicts their physical and emotional connection.
What unexpected character connections exist in 'The Deal'?
A key connection is between Hannah's past trauma and Garrett's protective nature, which isn't immediately apparent. Additionally, Garrett's hockey teammates, like Logan and Dean, provide comic relief but also deeper support, linking the sports subplot to the central romance.
What are the unspoken character motivations in 'The Deal'?
Hannah is motivated by a fear of intimacy due to past assault, which she hides behind academic focus. Garrett is driven by a need to prove himself beyond hockey, seeking genuine connection despite his cocky exterior, as seen in his efforts to break down Hannah's walls.
What psychological complexities do Hannah and Garrett exhibit?
Hannah struggles with PTSD from sexual assault, leading to anxiety and trust issues, while Garrett masks vulnerability with arrogance and uses humor as a defense. Their complexities create a dynamic where they challenge each other's emotional barriers.
What are the major emotional turning points in 'The Deal'?
Key turning points include their first kiss blurring the lines of their fake relationship, Hannah confessing her trauma to Garrett, and Garrett admitting his real feelings, shifting from pretense to genuine commitment. Each moment deepens their bond and drives the plot.
How do Hannah and Garrett's relationship dynamics evolve?
Their relationship evolves from transactional tutoring and fake dating to mutual support and deep romance. Initially adversarial, they become confidants, with Garrett helping Hannah heal from her past and Hannah supporting Garrett's academic and career goals.
Which parts of 'The Deal' remain ambiguous or open-ended?
The story leaves some aspects open, such as the long-term outcome of Garrett's hockey career post-graduation and how Hannah fully processes her trauma beyond the relationship. These ambiguities allow readers to imagine their future beyond the book's conclusion.
What are controversial scenes or decisions in 'The Deal'?
Some readers debate the ethics of the fake-dating setup and Hannah's use of Garrett to make another guy jealous. Additionally, scenes addressing Hannah's sexual assault and Garrett's initial pushiness in pursuing her spark discussions about consent and recovery in romance.
'The Deal' ending explained: how it ends & what it means
The ending sees Hannah and Garrett committing to a real relationship, with Hannah overcoming her fears and Garrett securing his hockey future. It symbolizes healing and choice, showing that love can emerge from unexpected deals and that facing baggage together leads to growth.
About the author
Elle Kennedy is a contemporary author known for her engaging fiction, particularly in the romance genre. Her notable works include "The Deal," "The Mistake," and "The Chase," which are part of the Off-Campus series, exploring themes of love and relationships among college students.
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