The Mistake is the second book in Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series, a new adult romance set in a college hockey environment. It follows John Logan, a popular hockey player, and Grace Ivers, a shy freshman, as they navigate a complicated relationship after a one-night stand. While the book delivers on the genre’s expected emotional beats, it also carries some noticeable limitations that might affect readers looking for something more nuanced.
In real-world usage, this novel is typically read by fans of contemporary romance who enjoy fast-paced, character-driven stories. It’s often picked up as part of a binge-reading session of the series, with many readers starting it after finishing The Deal, the first book. The plot centers on Logan’s struggle with his feelings for Grace after a night together, while Grace deals with her own insecurities and family issues. The hockey backdrop serves as a framing device rather than a deep dive into sports culture, which might disappoint those expecting more athletic detail.
Key functional features of the book include its dual point-of-view narrative, which alternates between Logan and Grace. This allows readers to see both characters’ internal conflicts, particularly Logan’s guilt over his past mistakes and Grace’s journey toward self-confidence. The writing style is conversational and accessible, with dialogue that feels natural for college-aged characters. The pacing is brisk, with chapters ending on small cliffhangers that encourage continued reading. However, the plot relies heavily on a central misunderstanding—Logan’s assumption that Grace is younger than she is—which can feel contrived and overused in the genre.
One notable limitation is the character development. While Logan is given a backstory involving family tragedy and personal growth, Grace’s arc sometimes feels secondary, with her problems—like a verbally abusive ex-boyfriend—resolved too neatly. The conflict resolution can come across as rushed, with emotional issues wrapped up in a few pages. Additionally, the book’s portrayal of college life is somewhat idealized, lacking the gritty realities of academics, finances, or deeper social pressures. For readers who prefer more realistic or slow-burn romances, this may feel too tidy.
Comparing The Mistake to other new adult romances, it shares similarities with series like Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers or Krista and Becca Ritchie’s Addicted series, which also combine romance with sports or dramatic backstories. However, where those series often integrate more complex relationships or external plotlines, The Mistake keeps its focus narrowly on the central couple. This can be a strength for readers seeking a straightforward love story, but a weakness for those wanting more depth or ensemble dynamics.
Who is this book suitable for? It’s a good fit for fans of light, fast-paced romance with a college setting and a sports theme, especially those who enjoy a male protagonist with a vulnerable side. It also works well for readers who liked The Deal and want to continue the series. However, it may not be suitable for readers who dislike tropes like miscommunication or insta-lust, or for those looking for realistic portrayals of relationships and college life. The explicit sexual content also means it’s not appropriate for younger or more conservative readers.
In terms of realistic performance expectations, The Mistake is a competent entry in its genre but not a standout. It doesn’t push boundaries or offer new perspectives, and its reliance on familiar tropes might feel repetitive to seasoned romance readers. The emotional payoff is present but predictable, and the humor—often delivered through Logan’s teammates—is occasionally effective but can feel forced. For a casual read, it works fine, but it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, The Mistake is a decent choice for its target audience but comes with clear trade-offs in narrative depth and originality. If you’re already invested in the Off-Campus series, it’s a necessary installment; if you’re new to Elle Kennedy, starting with The Deal might give a better sense of her strengths.
