A review by phantomparagrapher7
The Graham Effect by Elle Kennedy

adventurous funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

 
 
After receiving an ARC of The Charlie Method (Book #3 in the Campus Diaries series), I figured it was high time to dive into the first book, The Graham Effect. And wow—what an absolute delight! If you loved Elle Kennedy’s Briar University and Off-Campus series, Campus Diaries will give you those same heartwarming, swoon-worthy vibes, maybe even more so. 
This book centers around Gigi Graham, the daughter of Garrett and Hannah from The Deal (Off-Campus Book #1), and it’s a fantastic continuation for longtime fans. Gigi is determined to make her mark in the hockey world, separate from her father’s legendary status. Her three goals are simple: qualify for the women’s national hockey team, win Olympic gold, and step out of Garrett’s shadow. The problem? She needs help improving her game, and the best person to do that is Luke Ryder. 
Ryder is a force to be reckoned with—towering at 6’5”, brooding, and an absolute beast on the ice. However, his life is far from perfect. The men’s hockey team at Eastwood University has just merged with Briar University after Eastwood University closed their doors , creating massive tension, and his shot at impressing Garrett Graham as a coach is ruined thanks to a disastrous first encounter. So when the opportunity arises to train Gigi in exchange for a favor, it seems like a win-win. The only hitch? Their scorching chemistry, which neither of them wants to acknowledge—but can’t seem to ignore. 
Elle Kennedy masterfully delivers her signature mix of humor, steamy romance, and heartfelt moments. The banter between Gigi and Ryder is electric, making their slow-burn romance all the more rewarding. Gigi is a fantastic protagonist—independent, ambitious, and unwilling to be defined by her father’s legacy. Meanwhile, Ryder is the perfect mix of gruff and endearing, adding to the tension and eventual payoff of their relationship. 
With its addictive storytelling, well-developed characters, and just the right amount of angst, The Graham Effect is an absolute must-read. I cannot wait to jump into The Dixon Rule next