The Goal

Off-Campus #4

by Elle Kennedy

She’s good at achieving her goals…

College senior Sabrina James has her whole future planned out: graduate from college, kick butt in law school, and land a high-paying job at a cutthroat firm. Her path to escaping her shameful past certainly doesn’t include a gorgeous hockey player who believes in love at first sight. One night of sizzling heat and surprising tenderness is all she’s willing to give John Tucker, but sometimes, one night is all it takes for your entire life to change.

But the game just got a whole lot more complicated...

Tucker believes being a team player is as important as being the star. On the ice, he’s fine staying out of the spotlight, but when it comes to becoming a daddy at the age of twenty-two, he refuses to be a bench warmer. It doesn’t hurt that the soon-to-be mother of his child is beautiful, whip-smart, and keeps him on his toes. The problem is, Sabrina’s heart is locked up tight, and the fiery brunette is too stubborn to accept his help. If he wants a life with the woman of his dreams, he’ll have to convince her that some goals can only be made with an assist.

Genres: Romance, Sports Romance, New Adult, Sports, Contemporary, College, Contemporary Romance

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 26, 2016

About the author

A New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Elle Kennedy grew up in the suburbs of Toronto, Ontario, and holds a B.A. in English from York University. From an early age, she knew she wanted to be a writer, and actively began pursuing that dream when she was a teenager.

Elle currently writes for various publishers. She loves strong heroines and sexy alpha heroes, and just enough heat and danger to keep things interesting!

Reviews

[Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

***I dedicate this review to my homie, Starla. She knows who she is and she knows why***

Also, SPOILERS.

I usually don't read too many reviews on a book that I REALLY want - and pretty much know I am going to read no matter what (which is kind of a given for me when it comes to Elle Kennedy and this series) until after I've read it - but I broke my own "rule" on this one and read a few.



#whoops

Random tangent: I laughed at myself when I typed in "rule" up there...being that I don't see rules as being rules so much as I see them being...loose guidelines when it come to a lot of things...

Unless those rules are actually referred to as LAWS.

And live in large book titled THE PENAL CODE.

In which case I prefer to fall in line like a good little sheep so as to not end up being Big Barb's 3rd prison wife and end up on Big Love: The Prison Years.



But anyprisonlove, as I was saying.

When I broke my "loose personal guideline," I read a few reviews that made me believe I would come out of this thinking that Sabrina was a heinous bitch who didn't deserve Tuck.

Now, while I feel like that is a subjective and totally fair assessment - and I absolutely understand why a lot of people felt that way - I personally found myself really liking Sabrina.

Though she didn't necessarily say it until the bitter end, I could feel her love for Tuck throughout the majority of the book. Even though she might not have verbally expressed her feeling for him, I felt like she showed it in other ways.

She felt guilt because she felt like she had trapped him. And she didn't want him to feel trapped because she cared about him.

She didn't want him to feel like he had to be with her just because of you know what.

So even though it seemed hurtful when she told him to go ahead and date other people if he wanted, I understood it. And I saw that as being the action of someone who was being unselfish and trying to do what they thought was best for someone they love, no matter how much it might hurt.

I thought this was a very character-encompassing quote about Sabrina, and from Sabrina herself no less:

"I've been a largely solitary person my whole life, avoiding Nana and Ray when I could. At Briar, I made friends with Carin and Hope but didn't feel the need for a bigger, more extensive circle."

I too have always been a more "solitary" person, preferring to spend my time with mostly just my family, my husband, and a few close friends.

So I felt like I understood and empathized with Sabrina; however, AT FIRST, being that she was such a strong willed and opinionated person, I did having a hard time believing that she would stand for so many obnoxious comments from people, especially in regards to what she should do about her pregnancy, without telling them to shut right the fuck up.

Because if Tucker's bitch ass mother (whom I didn't like from the get-go, before her c&*t-worthy behavior even got to the party) had said some of that shit to me her ass would have been making a meal out of the sidewalk pavement I would have drop kicked it so fucking hard.

But after further reflection, perhaps that is just what I'd like to think I would do.

Which brings me to another main point in this story...

Sabrina's inner contemplation in regards to having the baby or not...and other people's reactions.

Or as I like to call it: Rude ass people saying rude ass shit about stuff that is none of their rude ass business.

The things that people say in regards to reproduction and OTHER PEOPLE'S reproduction never ceases to amaze me.

***Non-Book-Related Overshare Alert***

***Feel free to exit here if you aren't interested...I'm not forcing you to read...so don't continue and then bitch me out in the comments like I force read you***

LOL, "force read." *snort*

Anyway, here's my personal overshare:

I don't want kids.



Yep, you read that right.

I - a chick - don't want kids.

And my husband doesn't want kids.

So guess what...

WE AREN'T HAVING KIDS.

No, this doesn't mean I don't like kids.
No, I'm not going to "change my mind."
No, I'm not "just saying that now."

Because I do, I won't, and I'm not.

But you would be shocked - SHOCKED - at some of the things people - especially women - feel free to ask or tell me when it comes to children and their thoughts on ME not having any.

It used to upset me that people would say this shit, but now I just laugh and shake head at them. They seem to take it so personally that I don't want to procreate. Like I'm going to hell and they are trying to "save me" from myself lol.

Anyway.

Here are some of the highlights for your perusal..

From a virtual stranger I had just met at a party..."Were you abused as a child or something?"

Gee, no I wasn't. But thank you so much for insulting both me AND my parents in one fell swoop. LOL



From an acquaintance..."Well, that's cool. Although I have to say I didn't truly feel like a complete woman or that my was life was complete until I had kids."

LMAO
Gee, that's great. Thanks for telling me that you think I'm a perpetual half-girl leading an unfulfilled life.



Lies, Pinocchio...LIES!

From my sister..."But now MY kids won't have cousins."

Gee...thanks for that EPIC serving of Condemnation Soup.



And my personal favorite..."But who will take care of you when you are old?"

Hahahahhahaahha!

Gee, wasn't it you who was just telling me a month ago about how you caught your son pawning some of your shit to support his prescription drug habit...AFTER you sent him to a $30k rehab facility?

Oh, it was?

Well, I'm sure he'll change your adult diaper just fine in 20 years...right after he finishes cashing your Social Security check and buying you some off-brand Ensure because he spent the majority scoring some Xanax.



But AnyNotAnEvilWitchJustCauseIDon'tWantToProcreate, my point here is - there is one I swear - at first I had a hard time buying that people would actually say some of the shit they said to Sabrina and that she would react the way she did.

When some of the characters told her she should have an abortion, for sure have the baby, or give it up for adoption and she had no response? Which at the time seemed out of character to me?

I remembered that sometimes normally awesome and great people really CAN be that rude and ridiculous when it comes to the subject of procreation.
And they WILL say some heinous shit.

And you literally have NO idea how to respond.

I apologize, Sabrina, for doubting your characterization there for a moment, because I stand corrected.

So I liked how this book really captured that struggle.

I also really liked the connection between Sabrina and Tucker. It felt really palpable to me and their sexy times were hot hot hot.

As always, Kennedy's writing was flawless. I really love her writing style. It's seamless and engaging and I truly get lost in it. The verbal banter between characters is also phenomenal too, which is something I always enjoy.

So all in all, I really enjoyed this book. And I am sad this series is over.

Now to check out this "Royals" thing...



Find this and other reviews here:

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars


The Goal is the fourth book in Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series. This is one of my most favorite NA/Sports Romance series. I love these characters and their stories. As soon as I finished the last read, I was dying for Tucker and Sabrina’s book. Tucker was amazing just as I knew he would be, and I, for one, was pleasantly surprised with Sabrina’s character. I loved her as well!

Sabrina James is a serious student with some serious goals. Because of the way she grew up and how her life is, she will do anything to make her dream of being a top attorney a reality. Sabrina can seem a little brash at times, but I loved how hard-working and dedicated she was. I admired that she worked her way to the top with nothing but hard-work and perseverance. Sabrina doesn’t do dating, but she does do athletes from time to time.

John Tucker is a hockey player and he loves playing hockey, but that isn’t his life goal. Tuck wants to own his own successful business doing something he enjoys. Tucker is one of those guys that everyone adores. He’s sweet, fun-loving and an all around good guy. He’s from the south, he loves his momma and he opens up doors for ladies. You know the type. He’s super charming and great. When he first sees Sabrina, he knows there is something special there. He feels it. One night between them changes everything for the both of them.



Tucker likes Sabrina. He sees past her tough exterior and starts to fall for her. Sabrina doesn’t make it easy for him. She is hesitant to be in a relationship. She doesn’t do them. She has plans, goals, and doesn’t have the time. But Tucker is the kind of guy that wears her down. It takes time, but he gets under her skin. There are circumstances in this story that change everything for these two. Their lives take a huge turn and they are left to deal with it together.

“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, Sabrina James.”

“No. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

If there is any guy you would want to be in a tough spot with, John Tucker is that guy. He’s lovable and dependable. Sabrina is not going to be everyones cup of tea. I respected her for having goals and wanting to better herself. I actually found her to be a strong and likable character. And even though it took some time, I was glad she was able to see what was really important in life.

Elle Kennedy’s writing is fantastic and sharp. I love this family of characters and I’m hoping we get more from this group (FITZY!!!!!) Although this was missing something to give it that 5 star feel for me, I enjoyed it lots. I loved the story and both of the main characters and give it a strong 4-4.5 star rating.

“My goal, once upon a time, was to succeed. I didn’t realize that success wasn’t grades or scholarships or achievements, but the people I was lucky enough to have in my life.”

[Geri Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Proceed with Caution: There will be spoilers for the previous book, The Score. So if you’re planning to or haven’t read The Score yet, skip reading my review until you do so because some of the events in that book will be discussed here. But if you’re planning on skipping The Score but want to read this book, then go ahead.

It took me a while to settle on my rating for this book. I was waffling between 3.5 stars to 4 stars. I had some issues but at the same time, I really, really liked the characters. It took me days to settle on 4 stars. I liked it but it definitely wasn't my favorite in the series.

First off, I had some issues with the pacing especially during the first half. The first half kind of lagged a little bit. The second half though was much tighter plot-wise and character-wise.

The Goal was unexpected in many ways. If you’ve read The Score, then you know that Tucker had gotten Sabrina pregnant. We didn’t know how that happened since Sabrina and Tuck didn’t really interact that much in the other books in the series. This book gives us the story that we were unaware of until Tucker dropped that bomb at the end of The Score.

Since the first part of The Goal runs parallel to Dean and Ally’s story in The Score, a lot of the events in this book was kind of a rehash of what happened in the previous book. We see them unfold again through Tucker’s eyes as he and Sabrina navigate their growing connection to each other, which is probably why it felt like the first half lagged for me. Don’t get me wrong. I enjoyed reading how Tucker and Sabrina got together, but the other stuff like Beau's death and Dean’s reaction to it affected the pacing, in my opinion. I understood the intention of putting those events again there but like I said, I’ve read this before so I just wanted it over with and move on to the other stuff.

I would say that if you haven’t read The Score, then the pacing might not bother you as much as it bothered me because everything would be new and not a rehash of the events of the previous book.

Pacing aside, what really made this book a 4-star read for me were the characters, especially Sabrina. Now, I know some of you might disagree with me but Sabrina is probably the most complex heroine in this series, and love her for it. She’s definitely the most flawed.

Sabrina James grew up dirt poor, but that didn’t stop her from aiming high. She has a plan: graduate college, then go to Harvard and become a successful lawyer. She hadn’t planned on falling for a gorgeous hockey player and being a mother.

I think Elle did a great job of showing readers Sabrina’s motivation in this book. Her family is the worst literally, and all she has going for her is her brain and her drive to succeed. She is single-minded in escaping her past. She is perceived as a cold-hearted bitch especially when she had the gall to get mad at Dean for getting a grade he didn’t deserve.

But to her friends, Sabrina is anything but a loving and loyal friend who works really hard for her dreams. She is beyond stubborn and she has a lot of misplaced pride. It can be frustrating to read when a character that desperately needs help would be reluctant to even consider asking for one. But that’s part of her character, and it was consistent with how she was raised. She grew up being told and shown by her own family that they were doing her a favor for raising her somehow. That really marked Sabrina. And yes, it’s one of her flaws and it made her an interesting character to me. I was rooting for her not only to get Tucker but for her to prove the naysayers wrong.

John Tucker was a revelation in this book. Oh my gosh, what a dirty, dirty boy he is. I mean, this series so far as given an abundant supply of dreamy heroes, and Tucker is his own brand of dreamy. Like Sabrina, his childhood was less than ideal. But he had his mother’s love and support. I just love Tucker’s loyalty. Even before this book, I am struck by how mature he is compared to his other roommates. He’s the kind of guy you want on your side. He’s loyal and protective. But most of all, he’s the perfect foil for Sabrina.

I don’t want to spill anymore for fear of spoiling everything but The Goal is in a lot of ways different from the other books in the series. The characters are graduating and all of them are embarking on a different kind of journey. It’s bittersweet to see these characters move on from Briar onto the “real world” so to speak.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. It’s not a perfect book by any means, but its characters are just so darn enjoyable and compelling that I just can’t help but care about them.

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.



Review and rating closer to the release date...

That ending in The Score had me like...



Now I am even more excited to read Tucker's book!!

[Ayman · Rating 3 out of 5]

if there’s anything i hate in this world. it’s the surprise pregnancy trope. no thank you. i knew what i was getting into which made it harder to push through and a while to finish reading.
this was enjoyable overall but it felt like i was reading about characters playing house which was exactly what i read.
i think i only enjoyed the fact that this was a closure book. loose ends were tide up and everyone got their shit together. i’m excited for the spin off.
i personally didn’t connect with Tucker as much as i wanted to. maybe it’s because he’s a ginger. part of me believes gingers don’t deserve rights but whatever i’ll survive

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edit: If you're looking for the paperback with the abs cover it can be found on Elle's website. And you even get a signed bookplate with it :)



After reading this I want to go back in time and smack past-me for ever wanting Sabrina to be with Dean. Clearly they would have been horrible for one another so I don't even know what I was thinking. Tucker ended up being the perfect one for Sabrina and they were the greatest couple.

I loved seeing them together so much because they were very different from each other. It was fun to see Tucker try and get Sabrina to just have fun with life. Not that she was overly uptight, but she was very focused on her future and getting the career she wanted. Her way of thinking was that there was no time for relationships, hook ups only. Which left it up to Tucker to chase her and get her to see that she could still have a relationship and get the future she wanted. It was amazing to see the Hero being the one all moon-eyed and going after the heroine instead of the opposite. Honestly I don't think that happens enough in NA books.

Sabrina surprised me because she was a little uptight the first time we met her so I was a tad worried that she would be an overbearing personality in this book. But I was very wrong. She may have been focused on her career but she still had fun with her friends and was down to earth instead of stuck in her cloud of dreams. I was happy that she started to open up to Tucker's advances and we got to see them together.

So if you read The Score then you know that it ends with a shocker about Tucker and Sabrina, which most people probably know now but I'm going to try and keep it a secret in my own review. I figured The Goal would open up where that left off and with what we already knew, but instead it went back and Tucker and Sabrina's story ran parallel to Dean's. I really liked that we got to see the beginning of them and didn't miss out on how their relationship started. So I was ecstatic when I realized that and I could just kiss the author for making me so happy.

Overall, if you're a fan of NA romance with a strong heroine and a sexy as hell Hero you need to read this book. It could be read as a standalone or out of order of the series, but I would recommend reading all the books just because of how good they are.

Also a small rant that has nothing to do with the story: I bought the paperbacks of this series because I wanted to get them before the covers changed but now the only book I can find for The Goal is with the new cover so it won't match the books I have. *Crying*

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 STARS



This is the fourth book in this series and as with the prior installments, this too can be read as a standalone. As for the story, I have to agree with Dean Di-Laurentis (hero from the prior book) on his thoughts about this heroine, Sabrina James. Sabrina is a cold bitch and not even a cool one at that. I think the BIG issue is that the author didn’t plan on a reader not liking the heroine so redeeming her throughout the story wasn’t a concern. The story stayed course and my hopes that she was redeemable and/or that I’d even liked her never happened. Nor did a Briar school bus hitting her at any point in the story to introduce a new heroine never happened.



Sabrina is a hard person to like and for me she wasn’t worthy of a great guy like John Tucker. Though I think I was supposed to connect to her from the beginning it just never happened. Tucker is the type that would give you the shirt off his back, is still truly friends with his ex-girlfriends, and is crazy sexy in the bedroom.

”One swift jerk of a lever and his seat falls completely flat. Tucker lies down and beckons for me again. “C’mere and fuck my face. I need more of that.” Oh. My. God. Who is this guy?”



My dislike of the heroine isn’t because she’s poor, has a slimy stepfather, or that she’s super success driven, it’s because she treats Tucker like crap over and over again and is simply too cold for my tastes. She’s not the entertaining bitchy type heroine, she’s the type if Tucker was your friend you would have to say what the hell does she do for you?

”Even if you hadn’t said you loved me back, I’d take whatever scraps you were willing to give me as long as I could be with you. I don’t give a shit if that makes me pathetic”



John Tucker is a Texas sweetheart, sexy in the bedroom, with a heart of gold and the patience of a saint. The storyline itself takes a turn that is so very predictable, cliché, and does follow the previous book’s timeline.

”You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, Sabrina James.”

“No.” She miles. “You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”



Even when circumstances place these two together it takes the heroine to the end of the book to say how she feels however to me all along she never showed him. For example her recounting all the wonderful things he has done for her and I couldn’t come up with one that she has done for him.



Overall, this story follows the time line of the prior book but goes further especially in the epilogue. I’m guessing Fitzy’s book will be next with Dean’s sister, Summer? Sabrina and Tucker do eventually get to where he wanted to be all along and if he’s happy who am I too judge?

”My goal, once upon a time, was to succeed. I didn’t realize that success wasn’t grades or scholarships or achievements, but the people I was lucky enough to have in my life.”

**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Seeing Your Goals Clearly Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
It is no secret I have had a deep affection for this series from the very beginning. When I tuck in and start to read something which hits all of the feel-goods for me... I will go all in. Elle Kennedy created a college environment where a group of Elite Hockey Players bonded, worked together on and off the ice, and became men over the course of their time at this college. Each man had their own back story...some easy...some not so much, but when each was confronted with the woman who was their destiny... they rose to the level needed to prove they were worthy. They may have been "players like most sports stars" but once they saw their future in the eyes of their intended...she would be their only focus.

With this latest entry of the Off-Campus Series, Elle Kennedy brings us a love story that is so simple and pure, the angst is just in the rooting for these two to have their HEA already.

This takes place during the same time frame as Dean and Allie's story in The Score.

Sabrina James' life was not a fairy tale. Parents didn't stick around... leaving her to be raised by a grandmother who seemed more interested in holding on to her youth, the newest information on the Kardashians, and letting a creepy step-father stick around in order to have the rent paid.

Sabrina was determined to achieve her goal... no matter the personal cost.
To put her head down and do the work...
To plow through high school and get the grades to go to an important college...
To stay so focused, no boys were in the picture...
Once at Briar, ace all of her courses so she would qualify for Harvard Law...
Because only by going to Harvard would the Big Money Law Firms be interested....

Sabrina's goal was to leave behind all the ugly and show her doubters, she would rise above her circumstances. Sabrina was in her senior college year awaiting to hear if she was accepted by Harvard Law. She had been working 2 jobs, taking a full load and saving every penny so she would be able to support herself once in law school.

All this focus caused a couple of things to happen. The first was Sabrina's reputation...she was known as a bitch and cold. Sabrina was not one to make friends and be the life of the party. She never learned how to make friends; that she had two close girlfriends was huge for her. They supported each other and her girls would force her to get out once in a while...

With her girls, she could cut loose and feel a bit relaxed. There was also another way Sabrina knew how to relax...

Sex by Athlete... Football, Rugby... whatever...for the Relaxation was the result of a workout...
The hot, sweaty, intense, muscular hot bodies brought by all those hours of training...

Sabrina had no shame in her game...she was down for a hot and dirty time...but she wouldn't do a repeat with any of them. This was her way of taking the edge off from working nonstop, having to deal with stress, and crappy home life.

She had one huge rule though, No Hockey Players. Her experience with Dean, Hockey God, and unfortunate class partner, did not go well and she refused to dip in the Hockey pond again.

John Tucker belonged with his guys and his team. His father died when he was three leaving his mom to raise him on her own. Coming from a small town in Texas, it was unusual for a kid to fall in love with Hockey...but it was visiting relatives in Green Bay when five introduced Tucker to skating...The feel of the cold on his face and sliding across an iced pond did it... there was no turning back. His mom saw how much he loved it and took him to a rink an hour away from home. From that point on, it was a done deal.

Tucker loved his mom... she sacrificed and worked hard to make his life the best...She did hair in a salon and then also in her home...working all hours. They respected each other and he was proud of her and loved her fully. His goal was not the pros. He was business-minded and his goal was to find his niche and finally make his mom's life a bit easier. He had his dad's inheritance and planned to invest it once he found what he wanted to do. The other goal was to have a family when the time was right.

These two connect on a night when Sabrina's girls have forced her to go out and Tucker is with his bros just hanging after a practice. Sabrina's plans are to find her sportsman and let off a little steam. She is not thrilled the girls choose the "hockey bar" because they are not her chosen hook-up pool.

Sabrina is at the bar and Tucker is at the table with his guys. In a moment both Sabrina and Tucker scope each other out...The look is a perusing..an assessing of their attributes...She checking out all of his muscles, the close-cropped beard, thick legs...just his whole package. He's curious and interested... tracking her figure and the way she handles herself.

Tucker goes to the bar and starts to talk with her. Sabrina with her intense dislike of Dean throws out the ask if he is friends with him. Tucker doesn't even take a beat...he knows he needs to be truthful and let her know Dean is his friend but at the same time let her know her feelings toward Dean have no bearing on him. This exchange lays the groundwork for the relationship and shows exactly who Tucker is...Sabrina takes this in...and with a little care and easy way, Tucker and Sabrina end up together at the end of the night.

Sabrina and Tucker are Dynamite. Explosive. Mind-blowing. Yet, Sabrina tells Tucker this hook-up was just that. Period... Nothing more.

Tucker and Sabrina each know this is not the case. Sabrina cannot stop thinking about him. Tucker feels there is something more than a hookup. He does reconnaissance and tracks her down on campus. She is running between classes with no time to talk or sit...Tucker is determined but at the same time sees how tightly wound she is...and senses he needs to approach her like a scared animal...reading all of her signs and making sure to not cause her to shut down.

This is the basis of this love story... A young man who is on the brink of figuring out his next step in life... looking to do some sort of business and take care of his mom..mixed with a woman who has worked every hour of every day towards her goal to be a Harvard Law School graduate guaranteeing Big Money Success. Tucker makes baby steps with Sabrina...and life gives them both a speed bump to all of their scheduled plans.

What is important in this story is how it handles all of this. From the start...before any life-changing event, Tucker wants to try and see where things could go with Sabrina...and he lays it out in a nonthreatening way to her. He is taken with her and wants to date. Sabrina had to be so closed off... she is scared to deter from the path she has set for herself...She is skittish and Tucker keeps all of this in his mind when dealing with her.

When they have to deal with the surprise of pregnancy, Tucker takes the path of - I have your back, whatever you need... I am there. It takes Sabrina time to realize what she wants to do, how she will handle going to Harvard, and just confront what lies ahead. She promised Tucker to not shut him out and in the end, she does not. Sabrina does not use to having anyone there to support her and accepting any type of help is hard for her. Understanding her feelings for Tucker is also scary for she doesn't want to force a change in his life goals.

We were given the POV's of each throughout and it felt authentic to me. Sabrina was such a strong person, one had to admire all she had gone through to accomplish all she had. Both characters had an intense feeling for each other...but Sabrina was crippled in voicing them. Tucker hoped he knew how she felt but allowed Sabrina to have the space she needed. It endeared Tucker to me all the more. With all this encouragement and care, we get a couple who understands what goals to have in the end.

There are added pieces; Sabrina's home life, her work, Tucker's Mom, and other factors to add to the overall feel.

Oh, and the sexy times, which others I know will go into Great Detail..and Rightly So, is just yummy. Tucker knows what he likes; does it oh, so well and Sabrina is an equal partner throughout. Elle Kennedy has created Tucker and I want to clone him for myself.

The crew of all the past books was in and out of the story. We had the delicious feel of friends who care for each other, who will be connected long after they move out of college and into their careers.
We were teased a bit with Fitzy learning Summer is coming to Briar next semester. After learning more about Fitzy in this entry...I know Kennedy has something good up her sleeve.


The Deal (Off-Campus, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Mistake (Off-Campus, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Score (Off-Campus, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Goal (Off-Campus, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Legacy (Off-Campus, #4.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
OMG,OMG,OMG...
I have this in my hot little hands and I can hardly believe it!
Clear the decks...I am on lockdown with this wonder!
•●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
January 12, 2016
Well, the countdown has officially begun...
We have this Vision.....


And now we have this Blurb....

She’s good at achieving her goals…
College senior Sabrina James has her whole future planned out: graduate from college, kick butt in law school and land a high-paying job at a cutthroat firm. Her path to escaping her shameful past certainly doesn’t include a gorgeous hockey player who believes in love at first sight. One night of sizzling heat and surprising tenderness is all she’s willing to give John Tucker, but sometimes, one night is all it takes for your entire life to change.

But the game just got a whole lot more complicated...
Tucker believes being a team player is as important as being the star. On the ice, he’s fine staying out of the spotlight, but when it comes to becoming a daddy at the age of twenty-two, he refuses to be a bench warmer. It doesn’t hurt that the soon-to-be mother of his child is beautiful, whip-smart, and keeps him on his toes. The problem is, Sabrina’s heart is locked uptight, and the fiery brunette is too stubborn to accept his help. If he wants a life with the woman of his dreams, he’ll have to convince her that some goals can only be made with an assist.

Tucker has never been the one to shy away from any obstacle...
Sabrina has never been able to allow an assist...
When these two connected in a way where there is no turning back...
They both must learn to keep their eyes on...

The Goal (Off-Campus #4), September 26th 2016
●•●•●•●•●•●•●
01/12/2016
Tucker...Need I say More?????
Elle Kennedy, I am officially your Bit@h...

You need to eat..I got the groceries- Done
You want to see a movie... I rented the theater and popped the popcorn- Done

You want me to wait till September 2016 for Tucker's story...
Done and I will do it with a smile on my face...

For Elle Kennedy... You can do No Wrong with your Off-Campus series...

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Zoe (Marauders version) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hate the pregnancy trope.

{previois review}

ok but why are we putting shirtless men on the covers? I really don't need people to come over to my house and look at my books and see this monstrosity of a cover in my shelves. Its not hard to put a cover of something else!?

[elena ❀ · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Got a moment?”
“For you, always.”

i don’t find it surprising that i ended up liking the book that everyone else didn’t really like.

i had the impression i was gonna like this one much more than the previous ones. tucker was a side character we first meet in the deal, and he was one i really liked and was anticipating learning more about. i was excited to read his story, and i’m honestly glad i’m not too disappointed.

the goal follows john tucker and sabrina james as they navigate through the fact that, after an unexpected moment, sabrina gets pregnant with tucker’s baby. this is the ending/epilogue of the score, and when i read it, i was already looking forward to the book.

i've been wanting to read the deal since 2016. i was 15/16 when i considered reading the first book, and i gotta say, i'm glad i didn't. 15/16-year-old me would have definitely loved every book in this series and fallen for all the men. i would have definitely overlooked the flaws i saw in every book and thought of them as some of the best. but alas, we all grow and change (not that there is anything wrong with liking these books, i mean my taste(s) and interest(s) in books have changed a lot).

i tend to always to find myself on the minority side when it comes to popular books/series. having given the rest of the three books 2 stars, this 3 star read felt like a total refreshment. i’m definitely on the minority because even though i’m rating this 3 stars, i enjoyed it a lot more than the previous books, and it’s only made me more excited to read the legacy and see how far tucker and sabrina have come, especially little jamie. yes, i gave it 3 stars, which is what i have seen most people give this, but those people also rated the previous books 4 or 5 stars. in my opinion, both tucker and sabrina are underrated.

🚨this review will have spoilers for the score as well as spoilers for this book🚨

“Tell me exactly what you want.”
“You. I want you.”

i loved sabrina. the previous books don’t give us an insight into her persona besides hinting at a bad reputation. she’s referred to as toxic by dean (from the score) and he also calls her a bitch. there’s never really a reason this happens besides the fact that they hooked up and he knows better than to do it again.

the unexpected baby trope is not one everyone likes, and i totally understand why, but i liked how it was executed here. i didn’t find it to be done ridiculously, and i found it to be a cute addition to the story. it added to sabrina’s character to show how strong she is and how difficult motherhood is.

motherhood is so underrated. it’s a separate unpaid full-time job, and mamas don’t get the appreciation they deserve sometimes. while for some it may feel unrealistic, i found sabrina to be the version of she-hulk, as tucker described her. she managed to continue with her pregnancy, birth her child, continue writing school papers, continue passing her classes, attend law school, suffer through her step dad's creepiness and harassment, and somehow still make it out alive. because of this (and more), i sympathized with her and the reputation she had. she was clearly judged for the image given to her, but sabrina was completely different than how she was represented. she had no one, not even her nana was someone who was trustworthy in every aspect, but she didn't allow herself to stop from achieving her goals and continuing her journey forward. i found her to be nothing but strong and determined, and i was rooting for her throughout the entire the novel.

Because love is the ultimate goal. It’s not the one I had strived for, but I was lucky enough, so damn lucky, to achieve it.

as she and tucker get to know each other more, she opens up to him, and we see this vulnerable, out-going, bright girl who is trying to get to law school and become a lawyer. i think another reason why i enjoyed her character is that i also want to go to law school and become a lawyer. seeing how she never gave up is inspiring and shows how goal-oriented and determined she was/is. i also found her to be adorable and cute all while also being intelligent, driven, and someone who was hanging on by a thread on many occasions. people were rude to her in many parts of the book, and while it could have made hear weak, i loved seeing how she managed to stick up for herself.

for example, her confrontation with tucker’s mother towards the end had me smiling with proudness. i disliked tucker’s mom so much. i hated how judgmental she was, and she was someone who accused sabrina of someone she wasn’t. she misread and misjudged her without even getting to know her, and she reminded me of the type of mother-in-laws who think you’re going to be putting all the work and pressure on the man. this is really upsetting because she’s a mother herself, and i thought she should have tried and understood sabrina’s current situation.

“I have so much respect for you. I’ve only been doing this mothering sh—stuff for four months and I’ve screwed up probably a thousand times. It’s hard, and I have Tucker, your amazing son, helping me every inch of the way. I can’t imagine how you did it on your own. But I’m not going to let you insult everything I do in this place. This is my home. Yes, I’m not perfect, but I’m trying. I love Jamie and I love Tucker and if, at any time, Harvard or work or anything threatens their happiness in any way, I would give it all up in a minute.”

i also really liked tucker, but before getting to what i liked about him, i do have to say that his character in the beginning really bothered me. i hated the athlete privilege card he pulled out and managed to track down sabrina after their hook up. she told him there wouldn’t be anything else after that besides that one night stand that she even blocked him, and it’s why he tracked her down. he was able to do this by asking his advisor and somehow, his advisor gave him her schedule and was even pleased to do it. this completely invaded sabrina’s privacy and i really hated how it was something that was done in the first place. advisors cannot do this, no matter who the student asking for it is. advisors can be sued for this and is a total invasion of privacy. no advisor can give another students class schedule and any other information related to the academics of said students. this is really unrealistic and is not something that is allowed in universities, such as the athlete privilege card not existing as well. yes, there are stories and moments of rich families paying universities to accept their students and such. even if universities were paid to leak out personal information of the student without their permission, there are law suits that would be made and filed.

considering this is fiction, it can be a quick pass, but it was something i didn’t like and found annoying, disturbing, and even disgusting, especially because sabrina blocked tucker's number and he decided to track her down one way or another. it showed creepy behavior, and it’s just overall gross.

with that aside though, tucker wasn’t ever really someone that got on my nerves, per se, besides those creepy/stalkerish moments. tucker is (currently) my favorite briar u boy. i liked him in the previous books, and i liked him in his own. sure, i find the lust in all four books to be ridiculously quick and too fast paced for my liking, and the love tucker felt for sabrina was quicker than hers, but i liked him. i never found him to be as cocky as the other guys, and i really appreciated how he was someone who didn’t back out of the pregnancy when sabrina told him. instead, i found his character to be charming, protective, and overall, loving. the chemistry between the two developed quickly, and admittedly, it was one i felt more sparks between compared to the other couples. if you asked me, my favorites go tucker and sabrina > logan and grace > graham and hannah > dean and allie.

i liked tucker as a character and as a father. the fact that both are young parents scared me, mostly because i’m also in college and can’t imagine getting pregnant at my current age, but i thought they both managed well, for both the baby and themselves. they set their priorities straight and i found both of them to work at a steady pace, all while working together as well.

i also found tucker and sabrina to be the cutest of the three couples before them. i mentioned how i felt their chemistry more than the rest, and i think part of that really has to do with the fact that there was an unexpected pregnancy. i was glad both of them didn’t back out from it or blame the other. instead, they talked about it and worked it out and realized that it was going to be the new life they would have to get used to. i found tucker’s support to be really sweet and supportive throughout the whole process. yes, he’s cocky and flirtatious, but compared to the other members, i found him to be the most mature. i loved his growing love for sabrina and i enjoyed reading about his development towards her. i loved how he stood up for her and hated how people misjudged and misread her.

“You’re not alone,” he says, fierce and low. “And you’re not dragging anyone down. I’m here with you, Sabrina. Every step of the way.”

however, to add some criticism to my own liking of the couple, one thing i didn’t really like was how “unofficial” they felt. neither tucker nor sabrina ever really confirmed their relationship status, even after tucker told the rest of the gang the news. this is something that i noticed in the previous books as well. i know the love admitting is difficult, because let’s face it, it’s a difficult thing to confess even if you feel it, but what really bothered me about all the books is how the relationship status between the two characters was never really “a thing” until towards the end. maybe it’s just me, but this sort of lack of communication really irks me. it’s a small thing, but it’s still bothersome to me because of how much impact it makes in the overall relationship.

not only that, but another thing i noticed in all four books is how many pretty words and comments are lacking. this is something i tried shrugging off after the first book, but i noticed it was a problem in book 2 and 3, only to see that book 4 didn’t really have it either. this is another reason why the chemistry between the couples didn’t always click with me quickly or at all, and why i struggled piecing the two together. i’ve read a few romance novels now, and while there was flirting, since there was never that “official dating status” moment, the couples never really . . . complimented each other besides the basic “you’re beautiful” comments. i don’t know if this is just something i noticed or am mentioning, but it was annoying because it made the romance pretty damn absent, if you ask me. an example is this:

“You’re the only one for me.
My sun rises and sets on your smile.
My heart beats because yours does.”

that is something tucker thought when he and sabrina were having sex towards the end (98% in the novel), and it happened a little in the previous books too.

another example is this:

“You’re the one, Sabrina. There’s no one else for me in this world, nobody but you. If I was driving and saw you on the side of the road? You better believe I’d rip out a spark plug or two if it meant getting to spend even five seconds in your presence. You’re the fucking one.”

that was like, the only moment i highlighted of “cute talk” from tucker to sabrina. i don’t know if i’m making sense or if i’m explaining something others see. but anyway, i expected more . . . complimenting? i didn't even highlight a lot in the book because there was hardly anything that i felt was highlight-worthy. this is a personal preference/issue though.

give me all that cute mutual pining and romantic talk. there was more sex and flirting than romance, in my opinion.

the pace of this book can definitely falter the overall enjoyment because of how it takes place before, during, and after the score. beau’s death takes place in both books, and we see part of dean’s grief process in this book as well. this wasn’t something that bothered me. as a matter of fact, i liked seeing part of the other book in this book because it gave me two different perspectives of the same situation. i understand how this can bother some readers, as it can affect the pace of the book. for the most part, i loved getting to read about the side characters (graham, hannah, logan, grace, dean, and allie), but dean got on my nerves in this book. he was rude and a jerk in this book to both sabrina and tucker, but mostly sabrina.

i don’t understand how he thought he had the right to be judging sabrina and tucker when he’s had his life to fix himself. i appreciated the support of the other members and girls when they told them the news, but i found dean to be an asshole and immature. he hooked up with sabrina in the past (sophomore year), and it is something that has fed on to the reputation sabrina has on campus. it made me upset how immature dean reacted to the news when 1) it’s not his child or life, so i don’t understand why he thought asking tucker “why didn’t she get an abortion” was a good idea 2) he’s literally known as a man whore, and as someone who has had his dick inside (almost) every girl on campus 3) literally turned to molly and other drugs after beau’s death to deal with the grief process, got kicked out of the team after the drug test, and lacked communication with allie throughout their relationship. he blamed sabrina and told her she was ruining tucker’s life and literally made her cry. he tried pushing her to tell tucker she loves him, and while i agreed that yes, tell your man you love him, it was so stupid to me how dean himself was pushy about it. last i recall, he didn’t even realize when he told allie he loves her because, you know, the poor boy has never done relationships so it was difficult for him in the first place. ah yes, way to try and make someone feel bad for not telling them they love them even though they do. not to mention, he even made it seem like he was going to tell him because “he needs to know.” yeah, his attitude just got on my nerves and i hated how he took the news.

everything dean related in this book reminded me of how women are called sluts and whores for hooking up with one person and another but men are praised for it and even looked at with glory. that’s how different the reputation of dean and sabrina was. she was considered a slut and whore and he was praised as a sex god basically. this mentality still exists in 2021, and i find it extremely unattractive. i don’t care if it’s fiction or not, it’s wrong, ignorant, and overall judgmental. it shows people’s hypocrisy and true colors when you judge someone for their sexual life and activity. not to mention that i found dean to actually be conceited and not confident in many parts of his book. he’s the typical NA college hockey player who knows he can get any girl he wants, can’t believe a girl would reject him, and knows he’s good in bed. i didn’t find tucker to be like this, and it was a refreshment because the other 2 (graham and logan) were a little like dean.

also, this is just a personal problem, but i am tired of having to read text conversations/messages where the sentences and words aren't complete!!! i can't stand words like 2nite, tmrw, c u 2day, l8r, etc, etc. please, type the whole word. i can understand ur but . . . that's really it. this isn't something that affected my enjoyment of the book, it was just something annoying in all four books.

overall, this is my favorite of the series. i’m not too surprised with myself, considering how i liked both characters throughout most of the novel. i’m also just a whore for men with babies. the score had some scenes with dean training middle school kids (which is how he came to realize he wanted to be a gym teacher instead and let go of law school, which, i found to be very adorable, and his scenes with dakota were so wholesome), and i found them to be nothing but adorable, but this book had baby content everywhere. i’m weak for muscular men with tiny humans, especially men built like what these boys are described as. every scene tucker had with his little girl brought a smile to my face.

yes, i'm going to read the legacy when it comes out, and yes, i will be reading the spin-off of this series, starting with the chase. i tell myself that i shouldn't go into them with expectations and overall excitement because i'm scared i'll be let down again and again, but sometimes my excitement gets the best of me. i wish my self luck.

“We all hurt. We all love. We’re the same. And your past, who you live with, where you came from, it doesn’t have to matter. You’re creating your own future, and I want to see where the road forward takes you.”

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay ladies, we have a new winner! :) Tucker <3 *sigh*
First of all I must say, I love Garrett to the moon and back (1st Book - The Deal). He's my favorite in this series and the other boys were so sweet too (Logan & Dean) BUT Tucker, my god... I really, really loved him a lot... That guy is hot as fuck but also he's so kind and thoughtful too. He really melt my heart and oh he wet my panties too. Yep, I have no shame and I'm not even sorry for that hot minutes. :P

I highly recommend this series everyone. :)





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[Katerina · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 "Sabrina's a witch bitch" stars



Ugh, I have a hard time rating The Goal. At first I decided to go for 4 stars, since I loved this series wholeheartedly. But then I recalled that I rated The Score with 4 stars, which I enjoyed way more, so I have to put these books in order of preference.

“Tucker is Mr. Popular, with his swarm of admirers and impeccable manners and that reddish hair that makes him look like he belongs in some old-timey family sitcom where life is perfect, perfect, perfect.

I'm the overachiever, the bitch who studies her ass off and works every second of every day to try to climb out of the gutter she was born in so she can stand next to all these Briar kids without feeling inferior.”

The reason The Goal is my least favorite instalment of the Off-Campus series is simple; Sabrina James. I did not like her. At all. I have to agree with Dean, she was a judgemental ice queen that did not deserve the most wonderful, gentle, kind, caring man named John Tucker. He was too good for her. This story was supposed to be about an uptight and aloof girl that fell for the gorgeous hockey player who managed to melt her cold heart, but the problem is, the melting never happened. When Tucker talked about Sabrina or thought about her, you could feel it in your bones and your blood that turned hot. But Sabrina? She never showed her love, nor convinced me. She remained cold and bitchy and oh so annoying. I can understand her need to succeed, her determination to make a life for herself after her horrible childhood, but she was not the only one struggling. She did not include Tucker in her decisions, she avoided him for weeks but the idea of him finding someone else (who would appreciate him more) drove her crazy, and she proceeded with what she thought was better for him. A little presumptuous, aren't we?

“You're the only one for me.
My sun rises and sets on your smile.
My heart beats because yours does.”

But Tucker was always there. Patient and thoughtful, putting her needs above his. This guy had a heart of gold, and he claimed mine immediately.



Being a filthy sex god did not hurt either.
Seriously, when did hockey become this hot? Are inhuman beauty and sex appeal and lickable muscles requirements to join the Briar team? Do they want me to wipe off their sweat? I could use my tongue!

“I want Sabrina under me. Over me. Anywhere she wants to put herself will do.”

Oh to the my.
The angst and the heavy atmosphere differentiated The Goal from the rest of the Off-Campus books. It had some hilarious moments (the godfather competition made me giggle like a schoolgirl), but mostly when the rest of the gang was involved. Sabrina's life was hard, and painful, and there is no doubt her backround shaped her to the person she was. There were also some steamy scenes that made my cheeks redden like only Elle Kennedy can do, and I loved the banters between Tucker and Sabrina. Tucker's romantic and sweet gestures, as well as his dirty talking, made me swoon countless times!

“We all hurt. We all love. We’re the same. And your past, who you live with, where you came from, it doesn’t have to matter. You’re creating your own future, and I want to see where the road forward takes you.”

While The Mistake, followed closely by The Deal, are my favorites (Logan is my #1, and so is Grace), the entire series, with those cocky boys and their crazy, sexy stories, their strong friendships and their girls, will always hold a place in my heart!
Elle Kennedy, you're amazing!



✨The Deal review
✨The Mistake review
✨The Score review

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 STARS

I hate to tell you this, Sabrina. But you��ve made a big mistake.”
“What? Why?”
His fingers draw my thong tight, the fabric cutting into my swollen lips.
“Because I’m going to ruin you for all future guys. I apologize in advance.”

Time out. Did anyone else just have a pervy hot flash here? No? Seriously? You're a bunch of lying liars, is what you are. You totally did. Admit it. That line right there just totally revved your engines.

It's always the quiet ones, isn't it? Well if I had known the mouth that beard of Tucker's was hiding all this time, I probably would have been stalking Elle Kennedy down on a daily basis and waving my fist menacingly at her to write his story sooner. What? I like pervy bearded heroes, and don't you judge me either! Those BILFs get things done, I tells ya. But I digress.

Tucker has always been the calm, quiet, rational and unassuming one of the hockey bunch. Compared to the likes of Dean and Garrett, he always kinda shied away in their spotlight...or so it seemed. BOY was I wrong. Because when this man has a target he goes after, he spares no apology and isn't afraid to play dirty. But Tucker is also incredibly sweet, humble, and beyond patient and understanding. All those things make him absolutely perfect! And dirty...so very dirty

Oh sweet baby Jesus. Sex with Tucker is dirtier and hotter than I thought it would be. He doesn’t look like he’d be this way, but isn’t it always the quiet ones?

The Goal runs parallel to the events in The Score, so if you haven't read that book yet, I highly recommend reading it prior to this or some details may be lost on you. Admittedly, I hated Sabrina in the previous books. She was extremely waspish and off putting, to put it frankly. Luckily having her background and really getting down to the truth of why she is the way she is helped connect more with her character. That's not to say she's my favorite heroine of the series, but I certainly understood and liked her more in this book than the previous ones.

She’s not certain of me yet. I need to bide my time, but as long as I’m in the game, I’m not worried about the outcome.

Sabrina is driven and highly independent. She doesn't want or need a man, unless it's for one night of tension relief. But that all changes when the man is Tucker, because Tucker wants more than a few orgasms from her, and he's not hesitant to show her what she's missing. Did I mention I adored Tucker?

So why the lower rating? Weeeelll....I actually wasn't a fan of a particular trope used in this book. The hows of it seemed a little eye raising in the believability department, and the back and forths of it drove me a little bonkers. There were parts that I wanted to hug Sabrina, and others where I wanted to beat her with the nearest blunt object...or a really really big stick. But I digress once more.

Was The Goal my favorite in the series? Probably not. Did I enjoy it? Absolutely. Ultimately it was an entertaining read that kept me invested in the story and their characters and especially the romance. Tucker definitely is a large part as to why, but Sabrina did grow on me at the end as well.

Fans of this series will certainly enjoy this newest installment. And if you've been curious about the silent bearded one, you surely won't be disappointed.

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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[Cristiina♡Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

➳The possessive Tucker is one that no one can get tired of... Even with his mysterious characters...



➳Originality is a word that is rare to find in a book. Especially romance books, but Elle Kennedy has found a way to overcome the definition of originality in The Goal, the fourth installment in the Off-Campus Series because every word that is written in this wonderful story. I definitely recommend it in every way to read this story, out TODAY September 26th!

➳Elle Kennedy has ruined all sports romance books for me, and she most likely will ruin them for you as well if you read The Goal!
First of all, let's talk about the male protagonist's name; JOHN FREAKING TUCKER! John Tucker... Tucker, Tucker, Tucker. Does it ring a bell yet? John Tucker? Anyone?



➳Well, if it did then you are an oldie like me who appreciates a good chick flick every so often. Especially a nice romance chick flick like John Tucker Must Die. Elle has made my outlook for John Tucker change into a positive way, because you will LOVE John Tucker in The Goal. He goes by Tucker, and he has to be my favorite male protagonist by far this year from all the books that I have read. Tucker is such a romantic. He is a hockey player, who comes from a southern family. Learned respect, generosity, love, and most of all how to protect the ones you love. His hockey riches does not defy him, it's the person who he deeply wants to let go deep inside from his heart, out to the world to see and show off. From the way he moves in the ice arena, to the way he describes Sabrina in a scenery of low maintenance;

"I vaguely register laughter and catcalls and snippets of conversation, but my entire world has been reduced to Sabrina Jones..."

➳Sabrina Jones... She... well, she is a trooper for sure! She is the definition of what I want to be when I reach her time; be able to obtain two jobs, focus on schooling, get into Harvard Law, and most of all have a hot steamy relationship with an incredibly romantic hockey player as a boyfriend. Her mind is what keeps her from letting her body and her heart to open up to the love she wants to receive, the love that she was not given as a child. Everyone has a history and so does Tucker, and his is one that he wants to share with someone that he can trust. Sabrina is that one person who he wishes he could have met freshmen year of college, date her for the next four years, and then afterwards ask her to marry him. That's the kind of sweet guy John Tucker is. Even though it didn't happen like he had it all planned, it happened anyways at a later time with Sabrina.



➳A wonderful thing that I appreciate authors who keep a story going, a series flowing is the addition of those said characters in their previous book. In this case, I really appreciate how Elle adds the start off story of Carin and Colin, a.k.a. Fitzy. I'm just going to go ahead and call it that Ell will write their story next... and if not next, then maybe someday, but their story will be part of the series for sure, 'cause I honestly don't want this series to end and I don't want Elle to stop writing it!

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➳ARC kindly provided by author and publisher in exchange for an honest review...

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[Pearl Angeli · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Can I take John Tucker home?

I loved The Goal. Elle Kennedy has always been very good at this genre and once again she managed to delight me with her writing style. The book started off so good that I was like:





But when I hit 70% Sabrina the heroine did finally get on my nerves. She's honestly the main reason why this book didn't make it to my 4-5 Stars list. I always have a big issue with characters that annoy me, most especially heroines who can't seem to make up their minds and have the tendency to hurt the people who love them so much. Sabrina falls into this category.

We've known Sabrina in the previous books as Dean's bitchy enemy. In this book she's now the love interest of John Tucker a.k.a. Tucker, a Briar hockey star who lives with Garrett, Logan, and Dean. Sabrina and Tucker both have this opposing personalities. Tucker is a soft-hearted good boy with a Southern charm that could drop every girl's panties. One who grew up as a mama's boy, he also has this domestic side in him. Yes, ladies. He cleans the house and cooks delicious foods and does them without any complain. Now Sabrina. This female lead is an independent, strong-willed, hard-working law student who takes two jobs at a time while striving to achieve her dream of becoming a Harvard alumni. She basically grew up without parents and she lives together with her grandma and her perverted stepdad who makes me cringe every time.

Now when Sabrina and Tucker collided, I saw an immediate chemistry developing. I thought they might make an interesting couple. Even though I knew Sabrina is going to be a pain in the ass because of the attitude that she displayed since the previous books, I HAD HIGH HOPES that this girl can be redeemable. Did not happen. Well, at least not until the very last chapter. Which was so frustrating!

So while The Goal had a lot of good things that happened (like Tucker's interactions with his fellow Hockey stars, his sexy times with Sabrina, his baby, his road towards a different "goal"), the book was not at all perfect. Things became quite off in the 3/4 part of the book and I blame it on Sabrina who turns out to be a very insensitive person.

I guess what's really lacking here was the effective communication between our two characters. I kind of wished that things were a bit different and that the affection was not one-sided and Sabrina was honest enough to admit her feelings (if there was any) to Tucker.

Nevertheless, I still ended up enjoying this book because... TUCKER. He's the best thing here. Compared to some of the male leads, Tucker proves that not every male character with abs and muscles is a manwhore. Give me a John Tucker character anytime and I'll be satisfied for the rest of my life.

Through Sabrina and Tucker's story, Elle Kennedy gave the readers a glimpse of the real world. It's as if the book is saying, 'Hey, this is not just about sex and hook-ups. It's also about the result and consequences of sex and hook-ups.' Which happens in reality.

The series, as a whole, ended up so good. I loved that all the characters have their piece of happy endings and I loved that each of them learned a lot of lessons most especially from painful experiences. They all developed into a person who has a drive to move on and trek a different road towards maturity. Best of all, their friendship remained strong until the very end. Whoa, what a journey! This series is literally New Adult at its finest! Thank you, Elle Kennedy. :)

(P.S. Elle Kennedy just announced on Twitter and Facebook that THERE WILL BE AN OFF-CAMPUS SPIN-OFF which would star our boy Fitzy!)

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was one of the last of my friends to read The Deal, the first book in the Off-Campus series, and I fell in love. I told everyone I knew to read these books and they too fell in love too. This series is hilarious, fun and sexy. It’s not over the top or anything crazy, but it’s addictive and reading these books just gives me such a high. I swear I have a constant smile on my face.

The Goal is the fourth book in the series, so going in I had an idea of what this book would be about. I actually think that took away from my reading experience a little. I know it’s crazy, but my impatient brain just kept waiting for the big moment. I think that took away from the enjoyment I usually feel when reading this series. That being said, this book is still fantastic, all of these books are just on another plane for me.

This story features Tucker, the fourth roommate. I loved Tucker. It was insta-love for me, from the very beginning I loved his southern charm and his persistence. I love a man who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to pursue it and Tucker was definitely not afraid. When he decides to pursue Sabrina, Dean’s archenemies he goes all in.

The feelings between Dean and Sabrina are mutual, they hate each other, so, of course, Sabrina was reluctant to date a hockey player and Dean’s roommate. Regardless of her stance and refusal, she cannot resistant the attraction between her and Tucker. What starts as just a hookup eventually leads to more at Tucker's insistence.

Once this story got going I was hooked. I got that same excited feeling I always get with Kennedy’s books. I was psyched and anxious to see what would happen next. I was excited for the potential love between these two and couldn't wait to know their story. Tucker was one of my favorite leads, he is funny, honest and legit sexy as sin. I loved how commanded Sabrina and their sexy times. I know a lot of my friends struggled with Sabrina, but I understood her. Coming from nothing she is absolutely dedicated to making something of herself and that dedication led to some frustrating moments, but I always saw where she was coming from.

While this story won’t go down as my favorite in the series I still legit loved it. I loved how Sabrina and Tucker connected and really brought out the best in each other. I also loved how they were both willing to go all in and sacrifice for each other. Their story was one that brought a huge smile to my face and fall even more in love with this series. Definitely, recommend this one and the entire series if you haven’t jumped in yet.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachel L · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!

"He's sweet and earnest and clearly has money, whereas I'm bitchy and stressed and live in the gutter."




So if you haven't read The Score, my review will have minor spoilers. The Goal is the story of Tucker and Sabrina. We've met both in the previous book, Sabrina was portrayed as a raving bitch and Tucker has always been the strong and silent type. The two have an unexpected night of passion, and Tucker is itching for more.

But Sabrina has home issues and life goals that don't make room for a normal relationship, and she has no interested in dragging Tucker down into the gutter with her. So when an a surprise hits the two of them. Tucker wants to step up but cannot break through all of Sabrina's walls.



"I'm not the girl for John Tucker and I never will be."

I really enjoyed this newest book from Elle Kennedy. I think a lot of people won't like the heroine, but she really didn't bug me at all. I empathized with her situation and I understood her insecurities based on the horrible way she was raised and the unconditional love missing from her upbringing. Tucker was fantastic, as well all knew he would be. Many a reader will fall for him and make him their next book boyfriend. He was perfect!

The pacing was something that could have been better, the beginning was very slow and then picked up near the middle. If you read The Score this book follows some of the timeline of events in that book and it felt a little bit like a rehash at some points. But I also loved getting to know what was happening with Sabrina and Tucker when none of the characters had noticed it was happening.

The sex scenes between Tucker and Sabrina were hot! I did not expect that from him, his confidence and appeal. I guess it's true that nice guys are great in the sack! Because Tucker blew me away!! And for the situation that Sabrina ended up in, she picked exactly the right guy because he was there for her and he knew when to back off. Do I wish he was mine? Hell yes! Am I aware he's fictional? Unfortunately I do have that small level of sanity intact.

Elle Kennedy delivers a great romantic story that readers will love! I cannot wait to see what else she brings to the table in the future.

"You're not alone. And you're not dragging anyone down. I'm here with you, Sabrina. Every step of the way."

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coming into this story, I had an idea of what I thought it would be like and I'm pleased to say that what I got was definitely more. I don't think Tucker could have been a better guy all around. He was sexy as hell, yes, but he was also sweet, responsible, funny, supportive, smart, thoughtful, and so much more. He wasn't perfect but he was definitely the guy to bring home to mama and settle down with. Sabrina wasn't exactly who she comes off as in other books either. There's more to her than a prickly, ambitious exterior. I was happy to see Tucker bring out some qualities in her that made her more relatable as a character and added dimension. The characters are stronger and better developed for their flaws. The circumstance that brings them closer and the conflict it brings to their pre-planned futures was executed well. Realistic and honest, the plot is written and paced well. All in all a really good read. Safety: No others after they are together. h is used to one night stands. H has had them but he doesn't appear to place a lot of stock into promiscuity. No rape or abuse.

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 STARS

This was another one of my most anticipated books, so you can imagine my excitement and high expectations for The Goal. Well I can't say that I'm really happy because even though I loved the story and Tucker was perfect Sabrina ruined the story for me.



This was really strange because usually when I don't like a heroine from the beginning in the end I loved her but this time didn't happen.Tucker was amazing I loved him so much, he was so sweet.

Overall it was a sweet,hot and passionate story and the writing was good.

 

  

[Christie«SHBBblogger» · Rating 3 out of 5]

Title: The Goal
Series: Off-Campus #4
Author: Elle Kennedy
Release date: September 26, 2016
Cliffhanger: No
HEAYes



This is very possibly my favorite New Adult series. If not in the top spot, it sits way up in the clouds of New Adult heaven. The delightful perfection of the banter, the entire group of friends that charm the pants off of you, make the Off-Campus books irresistible. With each book I seem to fall in little more in love with each couple and anticipate the next even more. But for the first time, I was missing a some of that magic I've always depended on finding. I wasn't fully onboard with the main characters together.

I won't go so far as to say that I hated the heroine, but she wasn't my favorite. I was hoping that I would warm up to her as the book wore on, but unfortunately that didn't end up happening. Having read the previous books in the series, I already knew that she wasn't everyone's favorite person. She seemed abrasive and standoffish, but that didn't bother me. I had faith that somehow I'd be introduced to her endearing side. Let me emphasize, I do understand where she is coming from. Her family treated her like an inconvenience, she never grew up with a positive example of love and healthy relationships.

I’m trashy. I live with trashy people. I belong in a trashy place. The question is, will I ever be able to rub off the stench of my past to belong at Harvard?

Her ambition and drive is admirable and it grew from her desperation to escape the miserable home she had no choice in living in. The careless insults and nasty words of discouragement were fuel that fed her need to improve herself and have independence. I could even understand her antagonism towards Dean and others in general that no one really understood in the past. Having to struggle so hard while seeing others have things handed to them has to cut deep.

My every accomplishment is stained with my blood, sweat and tears. Meanwhile, some asshole gets the world handed to him on a platter? Fuck. That.

I loved Tucker, every sweet and dirty ounce of him. When he and Sabrina throw sparks off of each other while out with friends, they seem like the most unlikely pair. He's very nurturing and open and engaging. He's the rare type of guy that welcomes relationships and the idea of finding love and building a family at that point in his life. Whereas she has walls a mile high and isn't looking for anything from men other than their ability to scratch an occasional itch. Her goal of becoming a lawyer is her main priority and there's no room in her life for emotional attachments with men. Who knew that her one taste with Tucker could leave her so hungry for more?

Oh sweet baby Jesus. Sex with Tucker is dirtier and hotter than I thought it would be. He doesn't look like he'd be this way, but isn't it always the quiet ones?

I loved spending more time with the whole gang, however they weren't as present in the book as was the case in the previous ones. Maybe I was missing some of the lightness that they always bring and the happy feels and that had a hand in contributing to my enthusiasm not being quite so high. But I think my main issue was Sabrina's total inability to show Tucker affection or show vulnerability to him. He was constantly bending over backwards to make her happy and help her in any way he could but even towards the very end (94%) he was questioning if she had any feelings for him. I can certainly understand how a lot of people would love the heroine. She was tough, resilient, and an admirably strong woman. But when it came to Tucker and Sabrina's connection, her distance caused a disconnect for me.

I think many readers will like Tucker and Sabrina's book. They didn't have an easy road by any means. Life threw these two a curve ball when they least expected it, and they had to adjust and learn how to cope together. In short, this didn't score high like the other three books, but still enjoyable with plenty of sexy moments to tide me over until I get my next Off-Campus fix. I cannot wait for the next book, it looks like it's going to be Fitzy's turn and I'm dying to find out more about him.

FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

TITLE: The Goal
SERIES: (Off-Campus, #4)
AUTHOR: Elle Kennedy
GENRE: CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
CHAPTERS: 39 | Epilogue
RELEASE DATE: September 26th 2016

Buddy read with Sonya-❥Chatterbooks book blog ❥

MY RATING: 4 STARS


THE GOAL: This is the BOOK#4 within this series and as with prior installments, this also can be read as a standalone. This book is Tucker and Sabrina's narrative which is spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'

Everything I presumed about Sabrina in the previous book were so off base, my first initial thoughts of her were that she was a wee bit above the rest in money and status, but that is so far off base it's not funny, she's not had it easy, she lives with a sleazy step father that sends creepy crawlies up and down my spine, and a gran who I just didn't melt towards at all, she struggles to just make ends meet and doesn't have a dime to scratch together.

Sabrina is a senior, an overachiever who has her whole life planned out to the minute with her sole focus on getting into Harvard and nothing is going to get in her way. It is her only ticket of getting out of the dump she lives in.

John Tucker, he's now set the bar for all other book boyfriends to follow, he's everything I thought and hoped he would be, a true, Southern gentleman, with a heart of gold.

Sabrina hates all things hockey but when she has a scratch to itch and Tucker seems to be up for the challenge these two have at it in the front seat of his truck.

“I hate to tell you this, Sabrina. But you’ve made a big mistake.”
“What? Why?”
His fingers draw my thong tight, the fabric cutting into my swollen lips. “Because I’m going to ruin you for all future guys. I apologize in advance."

What was only mean't to be a no strings attached, scratch that itch one night stand turned into more than one night, an undeniable attraction has them seeking out the other.



MY THOUGHTS

I didn't get hit with the feels with this one like the previous books, this one seemed a bit more serious, for me Tucker carried this whole book, he was just the epitome of the perfect bookboyfriend, his words near on killed me, his caring, southern gentleman to her ice queen persona made for the perfect couple, it took me a while to warm up to Sabrina but by middle of the book, I loved her character, these two were perfect for each other. This kept me entertained throughout, the banter between the two had a giggle escaping a time or two.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes your goals need readjusting.

Well, that was kind of heavy. I guess I wasn’t expecting it to be as heavy as it was, to be honest. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, it was just a lot more serious than the other ones. The Off-Campus series definitely had serious parts but it was filled with humour, cheeky shenanigans and sexy times as well. The Goal had some of these qualities but there weren't a lot. When I sat back at the end of the book, though, I realised I shouldn’t have been expecting shenanigans. Both Tucker and Sabrina are far from shenanigan makers. Tucker is the “MOM” in the hockey boy’s house and Sabrina is the serious “Ice Queen”.

We start The Goal and it’s pretty obvious that all the thoughts I’ve had up until now about Sabrina were a wee bit off base. From the previous books (don’t ask me why) but I had her pegged as a snooty nosed rich, b!tch. I thought Sabrina was a bit of a snob. Maybe my memory is faulty but I never got the impression that she struggled with money.

Unfortunately for Sabrina, it’s worse than that. She definitely struggles with money, but she also has a douchewaffle (icky blech) Step-dad to deal with. This guy made my skin crawl. She also lives with her Nana. Now, Nana is not real flash, but she’s not all bad either. Sabrina’s mum is not on the scene at all. So, between the struggles with money, her home environment and studies, she also manages to hold down two part-time jobs. So she’s in no ways a snooty she’s just extremely busy. Sabrina has a goal to make something of herself and she does not mind planning every minute of her day to get there. Sometimes, the road you pave needs to take a few twists and turns to find out what's important.

John Tucker is a southern gentleman and an absolute sweetheart. He is on a hockey scholarship but knows that hockey is not going to be his future. His goal is to put his business degree to good use. Being the type of guy he is and the upbringing he had, Tucker has somehow become the mature one in the hockey house. He does all the cooking and most of the cleaning too. He’s still a hockey guy, though, so he’s hardly a saint and manages to pull his fair share of hot chicks. One night, out with mates, he sees her…and knows that his life will never be the same again.

Tucker and Sabrina’s relationship starts off very casual. Sabrina doesn’t have time for a relationship and Tucker is not the type of man to push. Neither of them can deny the attraction and it’s not long before they start to spend more time together. Tucker sees beyond the pretty surface and icy attitude Sabrina gives out. When he gets to know her more, he realises how badly she is misjudged. Sabrina cannot believe how kind, sweet and sexy Tucker is. She feels like he might be a bit too good for her. Things are moving along slowly until a wee bit of a surprise rocks their world.

I enjoyed The Goal and seeing how both Tucker and Sabrina have lived their lives, planned their futures, then had to readjust. It was interesting seeing them change their priorities and grow up over a short period of time.

There were some funny times and some sexy times too, but it definitely wasn’t as much as the previous books. My favourite parts of the story were when we get to catch up with the gang and meeting Sabrina’s two closest friends, Hope and Carin. The standout character for me though was Fitzy. I really want to know more about him.

I think because I was expecting a typical Off-Campus story I was a little disappointed. It was still really great, just a bit more serious than I expected.

Not sure what is in the future for this series…I just hope there’s more.

Purchase Links

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2aRzw0v
Nook: http://bit.ly/2aNXrhC
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2aW2hIK
iBooks: http://apple.co/2b2IaKb




I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -

[Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short and sweet, I wasn't really feeling this book. I didn't feel the connection between Sabrina and Tucker. It was an okay read but nothing to write home about.

[• Lisa • · Rating 4 out of 5]

FOUR GOAL ASSIST STARS.

"If he wants a life with the woman of his dreams, he’ll have to convince her that some goals can only be made with an assist."



I've loved this series from the start. Naturally, I was just a smidgen excited to start reading the next in line for my (very healthy) Elle Kennedy addiction. Who am I kidding, I jumped around my house like a girl gone loon. This book was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and for the most part it ticked all of my bibliophile boxes and left me once again 'off campus' style satisfied and straight into love with this authors two protagonists.

What did I love?
I could gush for days about how much I adore this series and the characters that I've grown to love and for the most part that's exactly what I'll be doing. So a little warning to those of you who are not fellow cheerleaders you might want to look away now. Best selling author, Elle Kennedy has that title for millions of reasons but for little old moi it's simply because she entertains me relentlessly. Her storylines don't ever seem to fail and I'm always swept away by her romance and seamless writing style. This book in particular had a shining star, the hero and I know that sounds predictable for a romance lover such as myself but seriously this hero was loveable to the extreme. He was the light to the heroines dark and I adored reading about his quest for love. Not so predictably I also fell in love with the heroine for all her quirks and faults I could identify with her need to lock away her heart until the right person came along to win her over and ensure she was loved. This right here was the kind of book that read like a dream the chapters flew by and I always made sure my kindle was near by to grab extra time with these characters. All in all this was another fabulous addition to this series complete with a red headed hero that stole my heart.



Why not five?
One of the biggest highs for me with reading any romance is the anticipation of what's to come. Due to the timeline of this particular story I was already somewhat aware of what was in the store for the characters. ('The Goal' runs alongside the other books in the series). Sadly, that in itself took away some of my reading enjoyment, as I was already expecting some of the unravelling events of Sabrina and Tuckers story. However, it was a small glitch in my quest for a five star read and in the grand scheme of my love for all things 'Off campus' this missing star is almost not worth being concerned about.



Final thoughts ...
For those of you who live under a rock and have not heard of this series I'd whole heartedly recommend this author and this marvellous set of books. Especially if you love a sports themed, new adult, romance novel. Those of who who are already dedicated fans of the 'Off campus' series you are going to adore every chapter. I'm desperate for this series to continue but for now I'll have to be content with reminiscing on my favourite bits. Enjoy ... kisses.

[~♡AB♡~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★ 4 Stars ★★★★



The Goal was sure to be a book that was a hit or miss with a lot of people, the heroine was not the person who a lot of people wanted for Tucker, because in previous books she has come across as being a 100% bitch, but I am happy to say that I actually fell in love with the heroine a lot more than I though I would, she won me over and I thought she was a decent human being with a lot of love to give.

Not all women are as forthcoming with their affections as others, and since Sabrina James grew up in a house with a mother who cared more about men than her daughter, and a step-dad who was a bit on the sleezy side, I can completely understand why she was reluctant to jump in with two feet with Tucker. She was guarded, and rightly so, but watching her slowly thaw to his charms, and realise that she deserved love as much as anyone, made for a great read.

"I’m trashy. I live with trashy people. I belong in a trashy place."

John Tucker is a good man, he loves playing ice hockey, he adores his mother, and has a nurturing and protective streak. He likes to look after people, and for some inexplicable reason, he is drawn to a woman who absolutely does not want to be looked after. Sabrina is a driven and hard-working woman with a goal, which he loves, but just for once he wants to be the one to take the lead, and let her relax and be looked after.

"I’m paying for your lunch because that’s the way my mama raised me," he says quietly.
"Call me old-fashioned if you want, but that’s how I roll."

With Tucker about to graduate and leave the Hockey team to go into business, and Sabrina on her way to Harvard, a baby is the last thing they need in their lives, but that's exactly what they get after a casual relationship.

Tucker was an absolute trooper, Sabrina didn't make it easy for him, but for me, this storyline worked really well, and I enjoyed the push and pull.

Again, another great addition to this series. I am praying that there will be more.

The Goal is the forth in the Off-Campus series following a team of Ice Hockey Players, but could be read as a standalone. Told from dual POV.

ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review

Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.

[Melanie · Rating 1 out of 5]

#1.) The Deal ★★★★
#2.) The Mistake ★★★
#3.) The Score ★★★★

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[Maria✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

➦Ok, so I'm a little late to the party, so what?


➦The hero really made the book in this case, in my opinion. He's so... so... sooooo.... yummy... and sweet... and nice... and solid and I just love him to bits. This is definitely not the direction I was expecting a college romance to go and I can't say I'm particularly happy about it but somehow I ate it up and was left fairly satisfied.

➦I don't even know how to review this without giving spoilers so I'll just say I liked it and leave it at that. #reviewfail

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4 "You're a SAINT, Tuck!!!" stars***



Well, this was the last book of the "Off-campus" series and if i will say that i didn't have a great time with those guys, i will be lying!!!

But thankfully, Elle will do a spin-off series and I'm so happy because i need Fitzy's story!!!
Please, Elle, say that you will write his story... Maybe with Summer???
Garrett, Logan, Dean and Tucker will always stay in my heart!!! They were all of them awesome and i loved them all for different reasons...
And i loved and their girls very much, but i'm having some doubts about Sabrina....

But let me explain you some things first!!!

“Do you believe in love at first sight?”

Tucker was the fourth member of this wonderful company and he was also a hockey player...
The difference between him and the other three guys was that he wasn't like them...

(Like this panta!!! Huge and lovely!!!!)
Yep, he had several hook ups, he was having a good time, he was partying too, but his beliefs were different...
He wanted to find a girl to settle down, he was having lovely manners, he was gentle and caring, he was swoon worthy and yep, he was a god sex!!!!

Yeah, i know!!! The last two things has no difference from the three other guys!!! LOL

“Oh sweet baby Jesus. Sex with Tucker is dirtier and hotter than I thought it would be. He doesn’t look like he’d be this way, but isn’t it always the quiet ones?”

Sabrina had the label of the bitch... but i can't say that she was actually one!!!

I think that she was a misunderstanding person... She had lots on her plate and she was focused on her ultimate goal... To get in the Law School of Harvard and to get away from her shitty life...
So between two works and hard studying, she hadn't no time to be socialized!!!
The only thing that she was allowing to herself was a casual hook up with a preference toward athletes!!! But only for a night....


"I'm the overachiever, the bitch who studies her ass off and works every second of every day to try to climb out of the gutter she was born in so she can stand next to all these Briar kids without feeling inferior."

In a night like that, Sabrina hooked up with Tucker and from that moment both of their lives changed!!!

Sabrina was clear from the first moment that this was just a one-time thing, but her mind and heart was going back in that night all the damn time and she didn't need that kind of distraction...
Tucker from the other hand was mesmerized by her and he was a very patient and insisted guy!!!!
He was determined to make her his girl... even though she was playing it hard.
And then one day... everything changed for a lifetime!!!!


“I hate to tell you this, Sabrina. But you’ve made a big mistake.”
“What? Why?”
“Because I’m going to ruin you for all future guys. I apologize in advance.”

What will happen with those two???
There is a hope for them??? Or their lives will be destroyed forever???

How will be the life from now on??? For both of them???
There will be a HEA for Tucker and Sabrina???

“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, Sabrina James.”

“No... You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

God, i loved Tucker so much!!!!
Honestly guys, this man was a saint... He was the perfect man!!!!

Hot, dirty mouthed, strong, muscular and at the same time so caring, so thoughtful, so patient!!!!
Sabrina made his life so hard, but he was always there beside her to take care of her and to wait for her!!!

He was so selfish and he was trying to do the best thing he could with so much love!!!!
He had so much faith to her, even when she wasn't having to herself!!!

“...I’d take whatever scraps you were willing to give me as long as I could be with you. I don’t give a shit if that makes me pathetic”

“You're the only one for me.
My sun rises and sets on your smile.
My heart beats because yours does.”

Sabrina from the other hand, wasn't the bitch that everyone thought...
She had lots of things to deal with and she was insecure and unsure of everything, so she was trying to keep a distance from everyone. She was afraid to let herself loose in order to lose everything that she was fighting for...

Even that Tucker proved himself many times to her, she still couldn't allow him to get inside her heart... and that was kind of unfair for him!!! He didn't deserve to be constantly on hold!!!
That's the only thing why i didn't love Sabrina... Because she didn't act like she should, especially when a diamond like that was beside her to give her strength!!!

I understand her reasons why, but still... i can't accept them!!! She frustrated me very much for almost the majority of the book!!!!

"Sabrina James isn’t used to people loving her. Sometimes I wonder if she even knows how to love someone back."

"I don’t deserve him. Not one bit, but for some reason he wants me in his life."

Tucker and Sabrina was very good together...
They were having so much chemistry and the sex between them was mind-blowing...

If Sabrina didn't waste so much time, everything will be perfect....
But in a strange way, even with all those insecurities and the holding back, i enjoyed very much this story!!!
And what i loved more than anything was Tucker and his behaviour toward everything!!!


"She does love me, but sometimes that love is so tainted, I don’t know if it’s hurting me or helping me." {Tucker}

"John Tucker has slid deftly into my life, filling spaces that I didn’t realize existed." {Sabrina}

I really liked that i saw my favorite gang for once again and that i got to know better Tucker, but damn, i will miss them very much!!

They were such a wonderful company for me and for my relaxing hours!!!

"My goal, once upon a time, was to succeed. I didn’t realize that success wasn’t grades or scholarships or achievements, but the people I was lucky enough to have in my life...
Love is the ultimate goal. It’s not the one I had strived for, but I was lucky enough, so damn lucky, to achieve it."

[Jeannine Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars (Re-Read 2/27/2018)

4.5 Stars (First Read 9/30/2016)



This is hands-down one of my favorite NA series. I love the writing, the humor, the depth, the romance, the sex, pretty much everything... but my favorite, my absolute FAVORITE aspect is the characters. They are absolutely fantastic. It's so easy to like them, and by the end of the book, I'm crushing hardcore on both main characters. And this one was no exception. I start and end these books the exact same way...



I'm bummed that this series is technically over, but I've read that a spin-off is in the works so I'm not terribly upset since we'll still get some of these characters back. Now, speaking of characters I love... Tucker & Sabrina *le sigh* They were incredible!

There were a lot of sweet moments, courtesy of Tucker... *major swoon*

He was truly incredible. He knew from the very beginning that he wanted Sabrina, but he also recognized that he would need to approach it delicately, so he was patient and kind in his approach. I loved his hockey related metaphors that showed how solitary her life had been.

She thinks she’s alone. Basically, she’s never had anyone skate with her— not even her friends, Carin and Hope.

Sabrina James isn't used to people loving her.

I really appreciated how much he could see under Sabrina's tough veneer. He was always thinking about her and what was best for her. He had no shame in how he felt. If he could spend time with her, he made it happen. If she needed him, he was there. If she needed space, he gave it to her. Tucker was just so unbelievably aware of her and her needs that my heart melted every single time they were together.



And the only thing I loved more than Tucker with Sabrina, was Tucker with his daughter. There is something so incredibly hot about a man with a kid. His love for his daughter was immediate and I loved how he made the best of what other's would consider a bad situation.

"That’s my daughter in there, and every time I think that, pride fills my chest. My daughter. Christ. Life is strange and unpredictable and so freaking awesome."

He never felt that way though. Sure, he freaked out, as I'm sure all new parents do, but he never regretted his child.

"This is fucked up. We shouldn’t be allowed to leave the hospital with a kid. I’ve never even had a pet before."

Tucker is funny and optimistic, and just so good. And he never lets anything get him down. It almost seems too good to be true, but I had a friend in high school who was this way... people like this exist. Tucker is book boyfriend perfection <3



Now, for the trickier character... Sabrina. I know a lot of people disliked her, but I never felt that way. Quite the contrary, I really, really liked her. Maybe it's because I understood where she was coming from. Not all of it, but I have a notorious resting bitch face, which almost all my friends make fun of me for, and I can come off very aloof when I first meet people. For me it's because I'm an introvert and awkward, for Sabrina it's purely about survival. But the reasons aren't necessarily important, people see the same thing--a bitch. So I get it. I get her. And maybe that's why I liked her so much. Because I know how hard and hurtful it is to be the person everyone thinks is a bitch. Especially because all we really want are the same things as everyone else, we just have a hard time figuring out how to get it without getting hurt.



I understood Sabrina "pushing" Tuck away early on. I mean, she was pregnant. That's a big deal and she was worried Tuck would regret it (something I totally understand as well). To be honest, I felt Tucker could have been more forward with his intentions. Don't get me wrong, like I said, I freaking LOVED him. He was awesome, and I understood him keeping quiet about his feelings in the beginning, she definitely would have ran scared. But later on, I think she was just waiting for insurance because despite little things he did that clearly screamed I LOVE YOU, he never made his intentions completely clear. Yes, he said I love you after the baby was born, but I think Sabrina had a point--how was she to know it wasn't just an "in the moment" thing? I wanted him to sit down with her and flat out say, "I love you. You're it for me, mother of my child or not. You getting pregnant didn't ruin my life, it made it a thousand times better. This was always what I wanted. A wife and child to love, it just happened a little sooner than expected, which is a blessing because now I get to love you guys longer."

Or something like that... lol. I mean, he does say something along this line at the very end, but I just feel if he said it sooner, we could have avoided a lot of the angst at the end. Like I said, I love Tucker, I'm not trying to be overly harsh or say he wasn't wonderful, because he was. But I just think if we're going to give Sabrina so much crap about being distant, we should at least consider ways Tucker could have stepped up a little more, too. I mean no woman wants to wonder if a guy is with her just because she's pregnant.

I also don't get where she was epically mean to him? I'm not trying to be rude or change anyone's mind or say their opinion is wrong, I just didn't see it and I'm genuinely curious what moment made Sabrina a character to be hated. I mean there were moments (I think this was around 70%) where Tucker asked something of her, like to hang out with his friends, and she did it. She didn't push him away all the time.

"Please?" I flash her my best aw-shucks smile. "It'd mean a lot to me."
"Oh." Her expression melts like butter in the sun. "Okay. I’ll come."

And she doesn't take his awesomeness for granted. If anything, it makes her feel less worthy of him.

I’ve been AWOL for weeks and he still finds a way to look at me like I’m the only girl in his orbit. I don’t fucking deserve him.

Asking John Tucker not to help out is like asking the sun not to rise.

She sees the good in him, unfortunately this is how she sees herself...

I'm trashy. I live with trashy people. I belong in a trashy place.

Anywho... I do wish the ending was different. I was just a little underwhelmed and I hated that she didn't say I love you until 98%. I didn't understand that much, and when Tuck's mom was reaming her out, I wanted her strong side back, I wanted her to tell her to shove it. But these things didn't necessarily feel like faults of Sabrina, it felt more like the author went off track with her. I don't know if that makes sense, and I'm certainly not trying to be disrespectful. I love Elle Kennedy, her writing, and this series, but I don't think she did Sabrina's character justice in the last 10% of the book.

I feel like all that sounds like I didn't like the characters and/or the book... that's not it AT ALL. But I wanted to go in detail about some of the thoughts I had because I know Sabrina's character has been a point of contention with this book. I respect everyone's views on her but I just wanted to throw in my very long two cents ;)

And, as always, I spent half the book laughing my ass off...

"Aria gives us a rundown of how it all works. It's not very complicated. We drink wine and paint Spector's penis."

Finally, I find my ovaries and turn to face him.

"I'm wondering why we use brass balls to describe someone who’s really strong, because after the second video, my balls tried to climb inside my body. Plus, my YouTube history is officially fucked."

"I swear to God, Tucker, if you don’t go find her right now, I will rip your stupid head off your stupid neck and FEED IT TO THE BABY!"

"How about this? We’ll Rock, Paper, Scissors for it."
Yeah, we're going to make great parents, all right.

And the sex... my God... I loved Tucker's dirty mouth, and their chemistry in general was just off the charts!

"I hate to tell you this, Sabrina. But you’ve made a big mistake."
"What? Why?"
His fingers draw my thong tight, the fabric cutting into my swollen lips. "Because I’m going to ruin you for all future guys. I apologize in advance."

"C'mere and fuck my face. I need more of that."

Her fingers cover my knuckles as she urges me to stroke her clit. "And this." She bucks upward and starts fucking herself on me.

"Now strip. I’m hungry, woman."

Okay, now that this review is longer than the book, I'm gonna wrap it up. I think it's a GREAT addition to the series and if you've enjoyed the others I think you'll definitely want to give it a chance. The heroine is hit-or-miss but from what I've gathered everyone loved Tucker, so read it for him if nothing else ;)

Safety: There's no OW/OM. There are groupies around Tucker and he's friends with all his exes but I think he only ever speaks to one of them and only a couple of times. Both MC's have generous sexual pasts, and even though they are very much about each other, they "objectively" view other people as attractive. I would consider it safe, but if you're very critical of these types of issues, I'd maybe read more reviews to get a better idea of if you'd enjoy it or PM for other, more detailed answers ;)

Closure: There's a one year jump ahead epilogue, where they're engaged and extremely happy with their daughter :)

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



GOOOAAAAAAL!!!!!! Elle Kennedy once again has me cheering big time as she reunites readers with the beloved cast of the Off Campus Series. The Goal is the fourth installment and this time the spotlight is on John Tucker. I swear Elle Kennedy can write about anything and I will still be addicted and in this installment, she has made me a huge John Tucker fan. #TuckYeah

“He has confidence without the ego, which is the biggest turn-on ever.”

The Goal was a sexy blend of sweet, steamy,raw vulnerability and honesty. Elle Kennedy didn’t waste anytime as she instantly made readers like myself gravitate towards to John Tucker. In my opinion, he was just perfect. He was confident, understanding, patient, loving, and most importantly he knew what he wanted. And for some, John Tucker is the end goal of what every woman wanted in a man.



Sabrina James is one of the strongest heroines that you will ever meet. She has worked hard to get where she is and knows Harvard Law is her end goal. Sabrina grew up in a household where there was lack of support and love and in such it harden Sabrina to rely only on herself and her two best friends. The dream was always to graduate Harvard Law and then become a successful lawyer. There was no time for romance or relationships that is until John Tucker entered her life.

“Oh sweet baby Jesus. Sex with Tucker is dirtier and hotter than I thought it would be. He doesn’t look like he’d be this way, but isn’t it always the quiet ones? I like it, almost too much. His hot breath warms my skin as I lower myself over his face.”

When Tucker first laid eyes on Sabrina, it was game over. It was like winning the Stanley Cup as she was everything that he wanted. She ignited a desire that made him crazy in love with Sabrina James. She was intelligent, drop dead gorgeous, driven, and most importantly she was everything that Tucker wanted. The sexual chemistry between Tucker and Sabrina was explosive. It was a symphony of passion, lust, and love. Everything about these two was intoxicating as their chemistry couldn’t be explained but only felt. Tucker was well aware that Sabrina didn’t do relationships and romance but being the good ol’ Texan boy, Tucker didn’t stop his pursuit of Sabrina and slowly he was able to tear down her walls of vulnerability and hard exterior.



As Tucker and Sabrina did that dance of where none of them defined their relationship, Sabrina informs him that she is pregnant. Sabrina had always been a planner and so when she discovers she’s pregnant, everything changes. Will she be able to be a single mother and still keep up with her classes? Or will Tucker show Sabrina that it’s okay to have a helping hand?

“You’re the only one for me. My sun rises and sets on your smile. My heart beats because yours does.”

Elle Kennedy did an amazing job with The Goal. This book had heart, raw emotions, relatable characters, and a love that was palpable from the start. Kennedy did a fabulous job in reminding readers that sometimes the unexpected detour might be the real goal in life. As always, Kennedy scored major points with her stunning prose as she allowed readers to see and feel this tangible connection of Tucker and Sabrina. So if you are looking for a story where the writing was superb and captured the themes of friendship, sacrifice, honesty and love then this book is definitely for you.

Elle Kennedy

[Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

*****FIVE STARS*****



Here are my overall ratings:

Hero: 5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5
Angst: 5+++++
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5