Hannah's Unwanted Attention

Hannah Wells, a talented music student, harbors a secret crush on Justin Kohl, a football player who remains oblivious to her existence. Despite her academic prowess, Hannah struggles with self-esteem issues rooted in past trauma, which complicates her romantic life. Her attraction to Justin symbolizes a longing for normalcy and connection, yet she doubts he would ever notice her. This internal conflict sets the stage for her journey of self-discovery and emotional growth.

Garrett's Academic Struggles

Garrett Graham, the confident captain of the hockey team, faces a crisis as his GPA threatens his eligibility to play, jeopardizing his professional aspirations. Desperate to maintain his standing, he seeks help from Hannah, the top student in their Ethics class. Despite their contrasting personalities, Garrett sees an opportunity to leverage Hannah's academic skills, initiating an unlikely partnership that will challenge both their perceptions and priorities.

A Deal is Struck

Hannah reluctantly agrees to tutor Garrett in exchange for his help in making Justin notice her. Garrett proposes they attend a party together to elevate Hannah's social status and catch Justin's attention. Although hesitant, Hannah is enticed by the prospect of stepping out of her comfort zone and potentially winning Justin's affection. This pragmatic arrangement inadvertently sets the stage for deeper emotional entanglements.

Unexpected Chemistry Unleashed

During a study session, Garrett challenges Hannah to prove her kissing skills, leading to an unexpected and electrifying kiss. Both are taken aback by the intense chemistry that surfaces, but Hannah quickly dismisses it as a fluke. Garrett, however, is left questioning his feelings, realizing he might desire more than just a platonic relationship with Hannah. This pivotal moment shifts their dynamic and introduces new complexities to their arrangement.

Party Games and Realizations

At The Party, Garrett and Hannah's fake date strategy works too well, drawing Justin's attention. However, Garrett finds himself increasingly jealous and protective of Hannah, struggling with his growing attraction to her. Meanwhile, Hannah is torn between her long-standing crush on Justin and the undeniable connection she feels with Garrett. This tension forces both characters to confront their true feelings and the implications of their evolving relationship.

Trust and Vulnerability

Garrett encourages Hannah to trust him and let loose during a bar outing, promising to keep her safe. For the first time, Hannah allows herself to relax and enjoy the night, thanks to Garrett's unwavering support. As they dance, Garrett reveals a vulnerable side, sharing a painful memory about his mother, which deepens their bond. This moment of shared Trust and Vulnerability leaves Hannah questioning her feelings and the nature of their relationship.

Confrontation and Confession

Hannah is confronted by Garrett's father, Phil, who demands she break up with Garrett to prevent him from losing financial support. Phil's threats are clear: if she doesn't end the relationship, Garrett will be cut off financially, jeopardizing his education and hockey career. Despite her love for Garrett, Hannah feels trapped and reluctantly agrees to Phil's demands, believing it's for Garrett's own good. This confrontation sets the stage for a painful decision.

A Painful Breakup

Struggling with the weight of Phil's Ultimatum, Hannah breaks up with Garrett, citing a need to explore other relationships. Garrett is devastated, sensing there's more to her decision than she's admitting. Despite his heartbreak, he respects her wishes, though he remains unconvinced by her reasoning. This breakup challenges both characters to confront their emotions and the external pressures that threaten their relationship.

Garrett's Determination

Garrett is determined to uncover the truth behind Hannah's sudden change of heart. He suspects her breakup reasons are fabricated and is relentless in his pursuit to win her back. His unwavering belief in their connection fuels his resolve, even as he faces the challenges of his hockey commitments and personal turmoil. Garrett's determination highlights his growth and commitment to both his career and his relationship with Hannah.

A New Year's Revelation

On New Year's Eve, Hannah calls Garrett to wish him a happy birthday, reigniting his hope. Their brief conversation is filled with unspoken emotions, and Garrett senses that Hannah's feelings for him haven't changed. This interaction strengthens his resolve to uncover the truth and rekindle their relationship. The call serves as a turning point, renewing Garrett's determination to fight for their love.

Reconciliation and Truth

Garrett confronts Hannah, demanding to know the real reason for their breakup. Hannah finally confesses Phil's threats, revealing her sacrifice to protect Garrett's future. Garrett is furious with his father but relieved to learn the truth. He reassures Hannah that his grandparents' Trust Fund secures his financial independence, rendering Phil's threats powerless. This revelation allows them to reconcile and rebuild their relationship on a foundation of honesty and trust.

Championship and Closure

With the truth revealed and their relationship mended, Garrett leads his team to victory in The Championship Game. His success on the ice mirrors the personal victory of reclaiming his relationship with Hannah. As they celebrate, Garrett's father is left in the shadows, his influence diminished. Garrett and Hannah's love proves resilient, overcoming the obstacles that once threatened to tear them apart. This closure marks the culmination of their journey toward independence and self-discovery.

Characters

Hannah Wells

Hannah is a gifted music student haunted by past trauma, which affects her self-esteem and romantic life. Her crush on Justin represents a desire for normalcy and connection, but her unexpected chemistry with Garrett challenges her perceptions and forces her to confront her fears. Her journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and emotional growth.

Garrett Graham

Garrett is the confident captain of the hockey team, driven by the pressure to succeed and live up to his father's legacy. Beneath his bravado lies vulnerability and a longing for genuine connection, which he unexpectedly finds with Hannah, complicating his priorities. His determination and resilience are central to his character development.

Justin Kohl

Justin is the quiet, intense football player who unknowingly captivates Hannah. His reserved nature and intelligence intrigue her, but his true intentions remain unclear, leaving Hannah to question whether her feelings are reciprocated. He serves as a catalyst for Hannah's emotional journey.

Dean Heyward-Di Laurentis

Dean is Garrett's charismatic and flirtatious roommate, known for his carefree attitude and numerous romantic conquests. Despite his antics, he values his friendships and provides comic relief and support to Garrett. His loyalty and humor add depth to the story.

Logan

Logan is Garrett's best friend and teammate, known for his tough exterior and loyalty. He harbors a secret attraction to Hannah, adding tension to his friendship with Garrett as he navigates his feelings. His internal struggle adds complexity to his character.

Tucker

Tucker is another of Garrett's roommates, known for his culinary skills and nurturing nature. He often plays the role of mediator and voice of reason among his friends, providing stability and support. His presence adds warmth and balance to the group dynamic.

Cass Donovan

Cass is Hannah's demanding and self-centered duet partner for the winter showcase. His diva-like behavior and manipulative tactics create tension and frustration for Hannah, complicating their collaboration. He represents the challenges Hannah faces in her academic and personal life.

Mary Jane Harper

Mary Jane is the talented but timid songwriter of Hannah and Cass's duet. Her reluctance to assert herself allows Cass to dominate their rehearsals, leaving Hannah feeling unsupported and isolated. Her character highlights themes of self-assertion and collaboration.

Kendall

Kendall is Garrett's former hookup who struggles to accept their casual relationship's end. Her unresolved feelings for Garrett create tension and highlight his commitment issues. She serves as a reminder of Garrett's past and the growth he undergoes.

Phil Graham

Phil is Garrett's father, whose influence looms over Garrett's life. His ultimatum to Hannah reveals his manipulative nature, as he prioritizes his own ambitions over his son's happiness. Phil's actions ultimately backfire, as Garrett's financial independence renders his threats ineffective.

Plot Devices

The Deal

The Deal between Hannah and Garrett serves as the catalyst for their evolving relationship. Initially a pragmatic arrangement to achieve personal goals, it inadvertently deepens their connection and forces them to confront their true feelings. This plot device drives the narrative and character development.

The Kiss

The Kiss between Hannah and Garrett is a pivotal plot device that shifts their dynamic from platonic to potentially romantic. It introduces tension and uncertainty, challenging their perceptions and setting the stage for future developments. This moment is crucial in altering the course of their relationship.

The Party

The Party serves as a backdrop for character interactions and revelations. It tests the boundaries of Hannah and Garrett's fake relationship, exposes hidden feelings, and propels the narrative forward by complicating their personal and social lives. The Party is a turning point in their journey.

Trust and Vulnerability

Trust and Vulnerability are central to the characters' development, particularly for Hannah, who learns to let down her guard and rely on Garrett. This theme underscores their evolving relationship and highlights the importance of emotional support and understanding. It is a key element in their personal growth.

Phil's Ultimatum

Phil's Ultimatum serves as the primary obstacle in Garrett and Hannah's relationship. It forces Hannah to make a difficult decision, ultimately leading to personal growth for both characters. The ultimatum also highlights Phil's manipulative nature and sets the stage for Garrett's eventual triumph over his father's influence.

The Trust Fund

Garrett's grandparents' Trust Fund represents his financial independence and security, freeing him from his father's control. The revelation of The Trust Fund is a turning point in the story, as it nullifies Phil's threats and allows Garrett to reclaim his relationship with Hannah without fear of financial repercussions.

The Championship Game

The Championship Game serves as a metaphor for Garrett's personal victory over the challenges he faces. His success on the ice mirrors his triumph in reclaiming his relationship with Hannah, symbolizing the resilience and strength of their love. The Championship Game also marks the culmination of Garrett's journey toward independence and self-discovery.

Analysis

"The Deal" by Elle Kennedy explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of genuine connection. Through the evolving relationship between Hannah and Garrett, the story highlights the importance of Trust and Vulnerability, and emotional support in overcoming personal and external challenges. The characters' journeys reflect the complexities of young adulthood, as they navigate academic pressures, family dynamics, and romantic entanglements. The narrative underscores the idea that true love requires courage and honesty, and that personal growth often stems from confronting one's fears and insecurities. Ultimately, the book conveys a message of empowerment and the transformative power of love and friendship.

Last updated: January 19, 2025