Sabrina wants out of her home life. A creepy stepfather, working two jobs to get by, and feeling poor are not what she wants for her future. She has done everything, like taking on a heavy course load, to ensure that she will get into Harvard law. She has no time for distractions, but he is her kryptonite. She had sworn off men, especially hockey players, and now she has one that she can’t get her mind off of.
Tucker, is the house mom of the hockey boys. He cooks and ensures that everyone is keeping a well kept diet for season, but now he wants more. He thought by now he would’ve found the one, especially over his friends which are retired players. So when his eyes lock on hers, he knows there’s something there. Only problem is will she let him in or will she push him away.
This story is soooo cute. It’s very relatable with the course load of college and trying to figure out your life after you graduate. There is an unexpected pregnancy and talks of abortion, but she decides to keep the baby and navigate through law school with a newborn. Sabrina also has to deal with a southern mom who doesn’t think she’s good enough for her son and has to prove herself in order to get her blessing.
This story was just beautiful, I absolutely loved it! Go read!!
... Read moreI recently dove headfirst into Elle Kennedy's 'The Goal,' and let me tell you, it's a standout in the Off-Campus series for a reason! If you're searching for a romance that's more than just a typical college fling, this one needs to be on your radar. I was immediately drawn to Sabrina's character – she's such a *badass FMC*! Her ambition to get into Harvard Law, driven by a desire to escape her difficult home life, felt incredibly real and inspiring.
What truly sets this story apart is the element of an *unexpected pregnancy*. This isn't just a side plot; it's central to Sabrina's journey and her relationship with Tucker. Watching her grapple with such a life-altering event while still pursuing her dreams was incredibly compelling. It adds so much depth to her character, showing her resilience and determination as she navigates law school with a newborn. It’s a powerful portrayal of a young woman refusing to let life's unexpected turns derail her entire future.
And Tucker? Oh, Tucker! He totally embodies the 'he falls first' trope, and it's absolutely swoon-worthy. His role as the responsible 'house mom' for the hockey team, coupled with his immediate devotion to Sabrina, makes him such a supportive and endearing love interest. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I loved how he stepped up to be her rock through all the challenges. He’s not just a hockey player; he's a partner who truly sees and supports Sabrina, which is something I always look for in a romance novel.
The added layer of conflict with the 'Southern mothers' (Tucker's mom, specifically) was brilliant. It brings a dose of real-world family drama into the mix, forcing Sabrina to fight for her place and prove her worth not just to Tucker, but to his family. This struggle felt authentic and allowed for even more character growth, especially for Sabrina as she learned to stand her ground and assert herself. It shows that love stories aren't always smooth sailing, and overcoming these external pressures makes their bond even stronger.
Overall, 'The Goal' isn't just a cute hockey romance; it's a story about personal growth, facing adversity, and finding your chosen family. It’s relatable for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by life's unexpected twists or struggled to balance big dreams with challenging realities. I absolutely adored it and highly recommend it, especially if you're looking for a book that delivers emotional depth alongside its romance. It definitely solidified its spot as a must-read for me!