Elle Kennedy’s The Score, the third book in the Off-Campus series, centers on Dean Di Laurentis, a charismatic hockey player known for his womanizing ways, and Allie Hayes, a determined pre-med student who’s nursing a broken heart. In practice, this is a novel you might pick up for a binge-read on a weekend afternoon, often consumed in a few sittings due to its fast pacing and dual perspectives. The story follows Dean’s attempt to win over Allie after a casual hookup, forcing him to confront his own emotional immaturity.
Key functional features of the book include its alternating first-person viewpoints, which let you see both Dean’s internal struggles and Allie’s sharp perspective. The dialogue is snappy, with plenty of banter that keeps the pages turning. Kennedy also weaves in realistic college life details—campus parties, hockey practices, and the pressure of academic deadlines—which ground the romance in a believable setting. The narrative structure builds tension through misunderstandings and gradual character growth, though the pacing can feel uneven at times, especially in the middle third where the conflict stalls.
One limitation is Dean’s character arc. While the book tries to redeem him, his initial behavior can come across as entitled and manipulative, which may frustrate readers looking for a more nuanced hero. The resolution of his growth feels slightly rushed, leaving some emotional beats underdeveloped. Additionally, the subplot involving Allie’s ex-boyfriend is resolved too neatly, reducing some potential for deeper conflict.
Compared to other contemporary sports romance series, such as Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers or Vi Keeland’s Drew After Dark, The Score leans heavier into the “bad boy redeemed by love” trope without the same level of character complexity. Bowen’s books often give more page time to team dynamics and professional sports, while Kennedy keeps the focus tightly on the couple’s emotional push-pull. If you prefer romance with more external plot or a less stereotypical hero, this might feel a bit formulaic.
Who it is suitable for: Readers who enjoy steamy, fast-paced new adult romances with a focus on character transformation and don’t mind a flawed protagonist who learns over time. It’s also a good pick for those already invested in the Off-Campus series and wanting to see a fan-favorite character get his own story.
Who it is not suitable for: Those who prefer heroes with consistent integrity from the start, or readers looking for a romance with substantial subplots beyond the central relationship. If you’re sensitive to possessiveness or manipulative behavior in a love interest, this may not be your ideal read.
Overall, The Score delivers on its promise of an entertaining, trope-driven romance, but it doesn’t break new ground. It’s a solid entry in the series, though not the strongest—readers might find the first two books more balanced. For a quick, engaging read with some heart and heat, it does the job, but don’t expect a deep exploration of character flaws.