While working for manufacturing company creating diversity programs for their employees, she continued her education at Loyola University-Chicago, where she received her Master of Science degree in industrial relations.

After 5 years of searching, Elkeles finally found an agent, Nadia Cornier,[5] who loved How to Ruin a Summer Vacation and would be willing to sign her.

[6] She has since won many awards and recognition for her works, including being named Author of the Year by the Illinois Association of Teachers of English.

RT Book Reviews gave it 4 stars stating, "Elkeles sure hits her stride in this story of star-crossed lovers.

"[9]Kirkus reviews says of Perfect Chemistry, "Elkeles pens plenty of tasteful, hot scenes—including one where Brittany loses her virginity to Alex—that keep the pages turning.

"[10]For Leaving Paradise RT Book Reviews nominated it 2010 Young Adult novel and gives it a Top Pick rating of 41⁄2 stars saying, "At once laugh-out-loud funny and tearjerkingly sad, this heartrending novel is impossible to put down.