The Graham Effect: A Slow Burn Enemies to Lovers College Hockey Romance (Campus Diaries, 1)

She's chasing Olympic gold. He's the last obstacle in her way.

An instant New York Times bestseller from the author of The Deal, The Graham Effect is a sizzling college hockey romance with an unforgettable heroine out to prove she's more than a legacy--and the grumpy, off-limits co-captain who threatens to derail everything.

Gigi Graham is focused, fearless, and ready to step out of her famous father's shadow. Luke Ryder is six and a half feet of brooding baggage with a team that's falling apart and zero patience for distractions. Their deal is strictly business: he'll help sharpen her game behind the net, and she'll help him win her father's favor. But the more they push each other on the ice, the harder it becomes to ignore what's happening off it.

Elle Kennedy's signature blend of humor and heat creates the perfect read for fans of enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine couples, hockey romance, and explosive slow-burn chemistry with tons of banter and heart.

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Published Oct 31, 2023

496 pages

Average rating: 7.88

95 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Lrenae
Dec 22, 2025
6/10 stars
I usually enjoy Elle Kennedy’s writing, and The Graham Effect had some fun moments with witty banter and a likable cast. The hockey backdrop was a nice touch, and certain scenes had the charm I expect from her books.

That said, the pacing felt uneven, and some parts dragged or became repetitive. While the romance was sweet, it didn’t fully hook me or keep me invested the whole way through. Overall, it was an okay read — not bad, but not as engaging as I had hoped from Kennedy.
traciej112
Sep 26, 2024
7/10 stars
Great book
Princessjm216
Jan 14, 2024
9/10 stars
I loved seeing Hannah and garett but as parents and i loved that Ryder has a dark past
Emmymob
Dec 27, 2023
8/10 stars
A great spinoff of the original series. Love sports romance.

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