Books on romance
Elle Kennedy Books Ranked: Your Ultimate Guide to Her Best Reads
If you’re a romance novel aficionado, chances are you’ve stumbled upon the captivating world of Elle Kennedy. Known for her addictive characters, sizzling chemistry, and storylines that keep you hooked from beginning to end, she’s a queen of the genre. But with so many fantastic reads, where do you even start? This guide ranks Elle Kennedy’s books to help you navigate her impressive bibliography and discover your new favorite.
Diving into the World of Elle Kennedy
Elle Kennedy isn’t just writing romance; she’s crafting emotional rollercoasters with characters that feel real and flawed. Her signature style blends humor, heart, and heat, creating stories you’ll want to reread time and time again. Before we dive into the ranking, it’s important to understand what makes her books so compelling. Elle Kennedy excels at:
- Strong Female Leads: From feisty heroines who know what they want to determined women carving their own paths, her female characters are relatable and inspiring.
- Brooding, Alluring Heroes: The men in her books are more than just eye candy; they’re complex individuals with their own baggage and hearts of gold.
- Unforgettable Chemistry: The sparks practically fly off the page with the way she builds tension and intimacy between her couples.
- Engaging Storylines: Whether it’s a college romance, a second-chance love story, or a forbidden affair, her plots are always compelling and well-paced.
Elle Kennedy’s Standalone Novels: A Mixed Bag of Romantic Bliss
While Elle Kennedy is widely recognized for her series, let’s not overlook her standalone novels. These books are perfect for readers who want a complete story in one sitting.
The Deal
Often considered her breakthrough novel, The Deal introduces us to Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham. It’s a classic fake relationship trope with a lot of heart and humor, though some readers might find Garrett’s initial behavior a tad questionable. Still, the chemistry is undeniable, and the book’s popularity speaks volumes.
Good Girl
Good Girl is a standalone that dives into the realm of second chance romance. While it doesn’t have the same widespread fame as The Deal, its emotional depth and mature themes are worth exploring. It’s a story about finding your way back to love after heartbreak.
“Elle Kennedy’s ability to create authentic characters with complex emotions is what truly elevates her books above the rest,” says Sarah Chen, a romance novel critic and book blogger. “She doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of love, which is why her stories feel so real.”
The Campus Series: Where it All Began
Elle Kennedy’s Campus series is perhaps her most beloved work. It’s a collection of interconnected stories revolving around college athletes and their journeys through love, life, and everything in between.
The Off-Campus Series
This series is where many readers start their Elle Kennedy journey. It’s incredibly popular and for good reason.
The Goal
The last book in the Off-Campus series and featuring Sabrina and Tucker. It brings all the characters together and is a perfect culmination of the entire series. It might be a bit lower on the ranking due to not being as impactful as other books.
The Score
This is where we meet Dean Heyward and Allie Hayes. Dean is known as the “player” of the group, but it turns out he’s a softie deep down. Their story is full of banter, angst, and steam. The second in the series often gets overlooked but stands very well on its own.
The Mistake
Logan and Grace are at the heart of The Mistake. Their relationship takes readers on an emotional journey. While their story is strong, it often feels more heartbreaking than the other books, which might place it slightly lower in a reader’s list of favorite lighthearted romantic comedy reads.
The Play
This is where we see the story of Summer and Hunter. The book focuses on self-discovery as Summer is trying to come into her own. While many enjoy the story, it does not shine as brightly as the first few.
The Chase
The Chase, featuring Summer and Colin, is often hailed as a fan favorite. The tension, the slow burn, the chemistry — it’s all done masterfully. While there are those who enjoy this story more than others, most find that The Deal reigns supreme in the hearts of many.
Briar U Series
The Briar U series is a spin-off of Off-Campus, set at the same university but with new characters and fresh storylines.
The Risk
Rivalries and sexual tension abound in The Risk featuring Brenna and Jake. It has a nice twist from the other stories and offers a fun read. However, it doesn’t always capture the hearts of readers the way the Off-Campus books do.
The Dare
Hannah and Conor’s story in The Dare brings a different dynamic to the series with its fun and flirty atmosphere. Readers often agree that The Dare is a little predictable when compared to the others.
The Legacy
The Legacy is a story of second chances and growing up. It is definitely a fan favorite and brings a sense of depth and connection that many find appealing. It’s an ideal read for those who enjoy a bit of a tear-jerker mixed in with their romance.
The Goal (Briar U Series)
Unlike the last book in the Off Campus series, this book featuring Gigi and Jamie has a more lasting impact. It’s a perfect final book for this series. While it is the final book, many feel it’s not as unforgettable as the first books of Off-Campus.
Ranking Elle Kennedy Books: A Comprehensive List
Alright, let’s get to the heart of the matter. Ranking books is subjective, but here’s a comprehensive list based on popularity, critical acclaim, and reader feedback:
- The Deal (Off-Campus): The book that started it all, with undeniable chemistry and a memorable fake relationship.
- The Chase (Off-Campus): Slow-burn perfection with a great balance of tension and heat.
- The Score (Off-Campus): Heartwarming and full of relatable college experiences.
- The Goal (Briar U): Great final book with relatable characters and a great storyline.
- The Mistake (Off-Campus): An emotional and angsty love story that will have you rooting for the main couple.
- The Legacy (Briar U): Shows a real connection with real issues and real growth.
- The Play (Off-Campus): A fun read that adds a lighter side to the series.
- The Risk (Briar U): A classic rival-to-lovers story with plenty of heat.
- The Dare (Briar U): A flirty and fun book that can be a great afternoon read.
- Good Girl (Standalone): An emotional story of second chances.
- The Goal (Off-Campus): Provides a wrap up to the entire series.
“Ranking books is always tricky because everyone’s tastes are so different,” says Dr. James Peterson, a literary professor and avid romance reader. “But Elle Kennedy has a real knack for creating relatable characters and compelling situations. Her books are perfect for anyone looking for an escape.”
Where to Start Your Elle Kennedy Journey
If you’re new to Elle Kennedy, the general recommendation is to start with The Deal. It’s an excellent introduction to her style and will get you hooked on her characters. Then move through the Off-Campus series in order. After that, you can venture into the Briar U series or explore her standalone novels, such as Good Girl.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start with The Deal: This is the perfect entry point to the Off-Campus world.
- Continue with Off-Campus: Move through the series in order – The Score, The Mistake, The Play, and The Chase.
- Explore Briar U: Dive into the spin-off series starting with The Risk.
- The Legacy: The book that really ties the series together.
- Standalone Novels: Good Girl is a great standalone if you want something different.
Conclusion: Elle Kennedy and her Books
Elle Kennedy has solidified herself as a prominent voice in the romance genre, captivating readers with her engaging storytelling, memorable characters, and unforgettable chemistry. Her books offer a perfect blend of humor, heart, and heat that will keep you turning the pages until the very end. Whether you’re starting your journey or are a longtime fan, this guide should help you navigate the world of Elle Kennedy and find your next favorite read. Now that you know the books ranked, there is nothing to hold you back from jumping into the world of Elle Kennedy’s best books.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Elle Kennedy’s books:
1. What is Elle Kennedy best known for?
Elle Kennedy is best known for her college romance novels, particularly her Off-Campus and Briar U series, which feature memorable characters and steamy romances.
2. Where should I start if I’m new to Elle Kennedy?
The best place to start is with The Deal from the Off-Campus series, as it’s her most popular and serves as a great introduction to her writing style.
3. What is the reading order for the Off-Campus series?
The reading order is The Deal, The Score, The Mistake, The Play, and The Goal.
4. Are the Briar U series related to the Off-Campus series?
Yes, the Briar U series is a spin-off set at the same university as the Off-Campus series, but it features new characters and storylines.
5. Are Elle Kennedy’s books only about college romance?
While she is known for college romance, she also has a standalone novel titled Good Girl, which is a second chance romance.
6. Does Elle Kennedy have any spicy romance books?
Absolutely! Elle Kennedy is known for writing very steamy romance scenes.
7. Can I read the standalone novel before the series?
Yes you can. The standalone novel has no connections with the series. However, you may find that you enjoy the series more.