After loving the Graham effect I was looking forward to the Dixon rule! I really liked Shane and Diana’s characters, the dancing training and shows was a really fun aspect as well as the forced proximity and the HOA meetings! I did think the whole Lynsey thing was dragged out too much and I did think the last 10% was way too traumatic out of the blue but overall I did enjoy this one and will carry on with the series!

The Dixon Rule delivers nostalgic Off Campus vibes, a hockey-fake-dating romance with a dash of ballroom, and a light escapist read.

It's been a while since I read the Off Campus series, but I remember really enjoying them as a light escape. The Dixon Rule didn't quite live up to the OG experience for me - it felt a bit too drawn out and repetitive in places, and the characters felt a bit younger than the original series. However this is likely much more about me than the book itself - it's so nice to think that Elle Kennedy can bring out series like this to capture new audiences, and that the OG series is there for them to discover.

Overall I enjoyed both Shane and Diana, and their chemistry. Shane's emotional growth was enjoyable to read, and I loved Diana's resilience and confidence. There were sections of the book that moved with a great pace, and I love how they gently supported each other through rough times.

It was really fun to see the cameo's by OG players, and their changed perspectives now they are grown adults with kids and careers. For me this was a fun read, and a 3.5 stars rounded up.

Thank you Little, Brown Book Group UK for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.

Diana is practicing for a dance competition, working two jobs, and dealing with her ex who just won’t leave her alone. She definitely doesn’t need more chaos in her life, but that’s when Shane enters the picture, becoming her new neighbor. She knows him already because he has hooked up with most of the cheerleading team, and as the team’s captain, she just can’t stand him. He's a loud hockey player, but what Diana doesn’t know is that he’s realized he’s a relationship guy and can’t keep up with meaningless flings. When his ex comes back, he pretends he’s with Diana to make her jealous, but what happens when the line between real and fake blurs?

It’s no secret that Elle Kennedy is one of my favorite authors, and I believe she writes the best sports romance books. This one proves it and has become one of my favorites by her! It was lovely to reconnect with all the characters we met in The Graham Effect, and I can’t wait to read more! Especially Will’s book, because we’re getting that, right Elle? I won’t say more because I don’t want to spoil it, but if you’ve read this one, you know WHAT BOOK I’m talking about.

Don’t let it fool you, this one was such an emotional read at times. I found myself bawling because it hit close to home; Shane experienced something that I have experienced in the exact same way, and it was really painful to read. It also dealt with some heavy issues, so you should check the trigger warnings. Let’s talk about one of my favorite aspects of the story: THE BANTER! It’s one of the things I love most in a book, and in this one, it was PERFECTION! Thanks, Elle, for spoiling us. Now I am anxiously waiting for the next one

➳ 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 ✩
⤿ a spoiler free arc review


₊˚⊹ ᰔ “I told them I had a girlfriend.'
I start to laugh. 'This is the greatest day of my life.'
'Oh, it gets better, Dixon. I told them it was you.'


this was my first hockey book from elle kennedy but my second overall, and i am honestly so glad that i didn’t give up on this author after “girl abroad”. i’m actually so surprised that i enjoyed this as much as i did because spice isn’t really my thing but i had heard such amazing things about her works that i knew i had to try another book of hers at least once.

💌 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽:
⤿ dual pov
⤿ summer romcom
⤿ cheerleader x hockey player
⤿ fake dating
⤿ forced proximity (neighbours)
⤿ enemies to frenemies with benefits
⤿ (reversed) grumpy x sunshine
⤿ no third act breakup
⤿ mental health/anxiety rep
⤿ slow burn
⤿ he falls first
⤿ 9 inches (yes this is a trope, yes i double checked, and yes she is okay)
⤿ lots of references to the og series

‎ ‎౨ৎ • 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽: diana dixon is already juggling two jobs, rehearsing for a ballroom dance competition and dealing with an idiot of an ex-boyfriend when f-boy shane lindley moves into the apartment next door, who just so happens to have slept with half her cheer squad. but after his ex comes back into the picture and he pretends to have a girlfriend to make her jealous, diana steps into the role of the (very fake) new girlfriend, to solve her own ex issues too. but after the lines between fake and real begin to blur and their fake-dating situation becomes very friends-with-benefits-esque, will the two begin a new (very real) relationship?

it definitely wasn’t the best romance i had ever read but it was really enjoyable. it also wasn’t the best written - i found myself feeling very bored in the first few chapters but it got so much better. i also didn’t love how the last few chapters felt very rushed with some of the plot elements, but the relationship between shane and diana was amazing so i can’t complain too much.

‎ ‎౨ৎ • 𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓪𝓵𝓵 𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼: a great book to get you out of a slump

‎ ‎౨ৎ • 𝓽𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝔀𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼: (some minor spoilers) domestic abuse, cancer, anxiety, assault, stalking, death of a parent, mention of cancer, gaslighting, stalking, physical abuse from ex-boyfriend and parental death

thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for my honest thoughts!

Kennedy never fails for me now, I didn’t think this series would live up to the original Off Campus series but wow was I wrong. The first book I loved because come on, the Garretts are OG. This book however, it had EVERYTHING! The relationship between the MCs was so fun to read, their banter was great and had me howling in places. When the book got serious in places it was really well written and brought me to tears a few times. Honestly this was such a good book, Elle Kennedy has landed another 5 star read for me

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of the arc

I think I may be officially getting too old for college age books, certain things took me out but that’s a me thing.

I felt like there were wayyyy too many plot points going on here, especially the last 10% - all very rushed and needing maximum angst for some reason. Was quite jarring with the rest of the book.

Didn’t do it for me as much as the previous one unfortunately.

Immediately, this story started on a low ebb for me with main characters that were both kinda awful. Diana was judgemental, took no prisoners and haughty. Shane was plain arrogant and annoying. I never bought into the whole 'look what's underneath, I'm really a good guy who wants a relationship' schtick.

It was a challenge to push through and I don't think this series is for me, on balance. I don't vibe with NA age group at all these days.

Thank you to the publisher for the eARC.

Hold onto your seat because this book doesn't just tell a story, it takes you on a wild journey! From the moment I cracked it open, I was strapped in for an exhilarating ride that I just couldn't put down.

The characters? Oh, they're more than just characters - they're like old friends you can't help but root for. And the way their relationship unfolds? It's like watching a slow-motion train wreck turn into a beautiful symphony. From enemies to friends to fake dating, every twist and turn had me on the edge of my seat.

But what really blew me away was the way the author seamlessly wove in characters from the previous book. It was like a reunion with old friends, and it added such depth and richness to the story.

And let's talk about those exes. They're like the villains you love to hate, but also kind of sympathize with. Every encounter had me feeling a whirlwind of emotions - from frustration to heartache to sheer joy.

In short, this book is a masterclass in storytelling. It's funny, it's heartbreaking, and it's oh-so-addictive. So do yourself a favor and buckle up, because once you start, you won't be able to stop.

This story was a whirlwind of emotions. From enemies to lovers, Diana and Shane's relationship had me hooked from the start. Despite their initial animosity, their banter and chemistry were undeniable.
I appreciated Diana's independence and Shane's gentleness, making their dynamic so enjoyable to read. The fake dating scheme added an extra layer of fun to the story, and I loved how their relationship grow throughout the story in an unexpected way. Their texts were so hilarious at times. I could have done without the unnecessary of her ex’ drama. That chapter where she last sees him had me enraged because it took a bit until I understand what really happened. I can also admit that I loved this book so much more compared with the first in the series. It felt much more Elle Kennedy from her earlier years.
Overall, "The Dixon Rule" is a captivating romance with heartwarming moments and steamy scenes that kept me entertained throughout. Elle Kennedy has once again delivered a delightful addition to the Campus Diaries series.

Very grateful to the publisher @ for his copy, opinions are my own.

*4.25 stars*

Elle Kennedy knows how to write a college/sports romance & this one did not disappoint!

If you have read The Graham Effect, The Dixon Rule follows Gigi's BFF Diana Dixon (cheerleader) and Ryder's BFF Shane (hockey player).

And they hate each other. Or rather Dixon thinks Shane is a f*ckboy and Shane loves to annoy her.

They somehow become neighbours and start a fake relationship - both for different reasons. Throughout this process they become FWB (the spice was H-O-T!), compete in an amatuer dance competion and fall in love with a reality TV show (as an imported Brit, I loved the love island references!). And unsurprisingly these two realise that maybe they are not just FWB.

What I loved about this book, is that although it was a college sports romance, it didnt follow the usual cookie cutter story. Dixon was was a badass with weaknesses and Shane was a a bit of a rich kid and not the perfect guy at the outset, but they both come into their own at the end of the book.

There are some more serious topics covered such as domestic abuse and loss of a parent so take that into consideration.

Read this if you love:
* Enemies (mild) to lovers [more loathe to love in my opinion]
* Fake dating
* Sports romance
* Forced proximity
* Friends with benefits

I said in my review of The Graham Effect that Elle Kennedy's teasing of Will and Beck was everything... well you get more in this book and a definite hint of what is to come. Plus a pretty hot Dixon x Shane x Will scene....

Can't wait for the next book in the series. *fingers crossed* it is Will & Beck!

Big thank you to Netgalley and Little Brown Book Group UK for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

What’s the best way to avoid a clingy ex? Get a new partner. However Diana is so busy and not at all ready to jump into a new relationship. She’s working two jobs this summer while also prepping for a dance competition. Somehow she still manages to make time to screw her new neighbor off. Shane is working his way through thru the cheer squad and is now messing with her turf. That apartment complex is her safe heaven and he’s in for a rude awakening. What Diana doesn’t realize is that Shane is ready to settle down and tired of his old way.

This is your typical new adult college sports romance. The head of the cheerleading squad meets the popular hockey player and magically he’s ready to settle down. They’re off to a rocky start, miscalculating each other and fighting because of it. When Shane’s ex enters the picture he tells her about his new “girlfriend” and they end up fake dating. Playing the part of girlfriend and boyfriend turns up the heat and soon enough they’re friends with benefits and by then end they’re clearly in love. We’ve seen this all before.

There are some side stories that stand out. Then prepping for the dance competition is so sweet and I love how invested Shane got. Rooting for his girl and truly caring about her success and interest. The rest of the people living in the apartment building are hilarious, their meetings are so funny! Then onto something potentially very triggering for some, Diana’s stalker ex that ends up being abusive towards her. He’s disgusting and it’s heartbreaking seeing such a sweet and lovable character like Diana dealing with him.

It is fairly spicy, the amount of it is a bit excessive but I’m certain lots of people will enjoy it especially those who love Kennedys other books.

4/4.25⭐️
Oh Elle Kennedyyy!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
I’ve enjoyed all of the books I’ve read by her so far and this was no exception. Although it wasn’t one of my absolute faves from her, I adored it and I feel like it was on a whole another level from her other books. In many ways!
It did take me a little while to get into but when I did I loved it. The banter between Shane and Diana was everything and I loved the forced proximity. Fake dating isn’t a top trope of mine but I found the way the fake dating trope turned into actual dating was done so well. I enjoyed it in this.
The other subplots although they’re quite deep (check the trigger warnings) just really added to the storyline and character development.
I really liked the other characters ( except Percival😡) and of course the character appearances from her other series. It just felt so homely how they’re all connected in some way!
The spiceee!!! Yess… I didn’t expect it but I was all here for it. It’s got to be some of my favourite she has written😆
I’ve said it before Elle Kennedy is my comfort author! I know I can read any of her books and have a good time, laugh out loud and enjoy them.
I’d always recommend her books to anyone and I will be this book too.
I cannot wait to see what the next one in the series is… I’m rooting for a Beckett or Will one 👀👀

Thank you Netgalley and Elle Kennedy for giving me the chance to ARC read this! I’m so grateful. Although it is an ARC, all of my opinions are my honest ones🤍

I think I probably preferred Shane & Diana’s book to Gigi & Ryder’s but I’m just obsessed with the whole Campus Diaries/Briar world. I liked how this one was quite light on the hockey. I know it’s a hockey romance but I enjoyed that there was more to this book than just hockey.

I adored the banter between Diana & Shane and the spice was insane! I would recommend checking the trigger warnings if needed as the last 25% of the book left me sobbing.

As usual Elle Kennedy has written an amazing instalment to the Campus Diaries series and I can’t wait to see whose book is next.

Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the ARC of The Dixon Rule
I loved this book! I thought the Graham Effect was good but personally this one was better.
I loved the fake dating and Diana and Shane are so cute together. This book does also explore some sensitive topics but I felt like they really added to the story.
I will say there was less hockey in this book than The Graham Effect and Elle Kennedy's other hockey romances but I really really liked this book.

Diana and Shane had me kicking my legs in the air ahhh! I was so excited to read their story after their side character appearances in The Graham Effect and I must say I enjoyed this a bit more than Gigi and Ryder’s story! They cannot stand being around each other but somehow keep on being thrown into situations where avoiding the other is impossible, and the banter that comes from this is sublime.

It was the perfect depiction of a fake-dating trope where both of them struggle with coming to terms with their feelings while simultaneously trying to fight off the narratives built for them. Diana struggles with her toxic ex and Shane is working towards moving on from his player image.

Do not be fooled because even though this was a very funny and spicy read, it will give you all the feels! Have tissues ready I’m warning you.

Thank you so much to Elle Kennedy and to Little Brown Book Group UK & Piatkus for the chance to read this as an ARC.

4/5 stars
Elle Kennedy can do no wrong. The Dixon rules was the perfect follow up to the Graham effect, following Gigi’s bestie Diana Dixon and the hilarious Shane, it encompassed enemy’s to lovers in the best way. I loved the dynamics of them as neighbours and the natural progression in their relationship. Diana was strong, assertive and was just as humerous as Shane. The book deals with some pretty heavy stuff especially halfway into the story and onwards so please do search up trigger warnings before diving in, but I feel that the topics were done justice and flowed well in the story. If you loved the Graham effect and are considering the next book, I definitely recommend reading on - you’ll fall in love with them just as much as Gigi and Ryder.

A return to the world of Briar featuring elements of humour mixed with serious topics like [spoiler] Intimate Partner Violence and parental loss. Kennedy is strongest when writing comedy and this really shone through with the residents’ meetings and the banter between the protagonists.
I would say there is some dubiousness to one or two of the sex scenes in terms of consent which impacted my immersion in the story, however overall I felt reasonably invested in Shane and Diana’s relationship. I think the book would have worked better without the plot surrounding Shane’s family as this felt less fully developed.
Whilst the plot could have been better and more thoughtfully paced, I still enjoyed reading ‘The Dixon Rule’. I read it immediately after ‘The Graham Effect’, which I would recommend to really immerse yourself in the world of Briar University.

I devoured this!! Love love love Shane and Diana. Such a fun book. Lots of spice. Hockey player x cheerleader/dancer. Highly recommend if you love the off campus/ Briar U series. I love Elle Kennedy’s writing, so easy to devour her books!!

Elle Kennedy dues it again. I love her stures of quick witty characters the right level of spice and a good story line that keeps you hooked. This a good feel novel about two lost people finding each other and falling in love. What more could you want.

Happy release day to Elle Kennedy!

‘The Dixon Rule’ was a great follow-up to ‘The Graham Effect’ which was another book I really enjoyed. This book follows headstrong Diana and lovable Shane and while they attempt to stay out of each others way, perfect circumstances keep on bringing them back together and the intense chemistry is something they can’t deny.

A fun book which you can turn your brain off to and get totally lost in! Looking forward to the next release.