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The Ivy #4
Scandal
ACCUSATIONS, ACCUSATIONS . . .
You know you're not the author of the "Ivy Insider" articles.
But how are you going to prove it?
Callie Andrews returns from spring break to find herself facing expulsion. Someone has framed her as the author of a series of anonymous articles vilifying an elite social club and now, unless she can prove her innocence, she can kiss her college education good-bye. So who is the Ivy Insider?
ALEXIS
the girl who has had it out for Callie since day one
GREGORY
the guy who told her he loved her (at least she thought she heard that) but then he vanished in the middle of the night
MATT
his friendship supersedes his hatred for social clubs—right?
or VANESSA
Callie's best frenemy
. . . or is it someone else entirely? Callie's made more than a few enemies during her freshman year, but can she count on her true friends—and the (missing, just-maybe-meant-to-be) love of her life—to pull through?
You know you're not the author of the "Ivy Insider" articles.
But how are you going to prove it?
Callie Andrews returns from spring break to find herself facing expulsion. Someone has framed her as the author of a series of anonymous articles vilifying an elite social club and now, unless she can prove her innocence, she can kiss her college education good-bye. So who is the Ivy Insider?
ALEXIS
the girl who has had it out for Callie since day one
GREGORY
the guy who told her he loved her (at least she thought she heard that) but then he vanished in the middle of the night
MATT
his friendship supersedes his hatred for social clubs—right?
or VANESSA
Callie's best frenemy
. . . or is it someone else entirely? Callie's made more than a few enemies during her freshman year, but can she count on her true friends—and the (missing, just-maybe-meant-to-be) love of her life—to pull through?
326 pages, Hardcover
First published February 26, 2013
21 people are currently reading
1082 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Kunze
4 books273 followersLauren Kunze grew up in Piedmont, California and attended Harvard University where she majored in English literature and minored in neurobiology. After graduation, she deferred a masters program at the University of Oxford in order to finish her first novel, The Ivy, which was conceptualized in collaboration with best friend and former college roommate Rina Onur. Now Lauren writes full-time, and is currently working on subsequent novels in The Ivy Series. She is twenty-five years old.
For news and updates, follow Lauren on twitter: http://twitter.com/laurenkunze
For more about The Ivy Series, visit www.ivybookseries.com
For news and updates, follow Lauren on twitter: http://twitter.com/laurenkunze
For more about The Ivy Series, visit www.ivybookseries.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 3, 2017
Also find this review here and here.
Overall series 3.5 to 4 Stars.
So, I read the 2nd, 3rd and 4th books in one go and don’t remember much of the story because it’s all mixed up in my head but one thing that I am certain of is that I AM MISSING ALL THE CHARACTERS ALREADY!
This series was a fun-filled, fluffy, fantastic experience! My college has been very hectic lately and all I needed to read was a light-hearted series set in a college so I decided to pick this up as I had enjoyed the first book, more or less.
There is not much in-depth story in these books; they center around a girl named Callie and her love-triangle in Harvard. I know, all of us are BORED TO DEATH of love-triangles and it was not given any special treatment in this series either. The love triangle in this case was as equally frustrating and exciting and then frustrating again like in the other books. Rest of the plot is also recycled and borrowed from other TV Shows or books we’ve read; it’s not very new or extraordinary.
But Ilike love the setting of this series. Man, oh, man! The way Harvard is written in these books makes you feel that Harvard is the place to be.
The university in which I study, Manipal Univeristy, Manipal is my country’s most “happening” college and people drooool over because we get our degrees just for partying day and night but now that I’ve read about Harvard, my college looks like a duck egg in front of it. If I start writing about it, this will turn into a Harvard Promotional Ad rather than a review because I am THAT smitten by it as of now. The main theme of this series was to write about Harvard and its lifestyle; characters, plot, everything takes a back seat here and while writing good amount of attention was paid towards all the criteria. Studying, relationships, competitions, frenemies and enemies were written into the story very well and proportionately. Not one aspect was promoted or ignored too much.
Another thing to mention is that the writing is very consistent. There are some series you read where one book stands out and becomes your favourite or a book is so bad that leads the series to its grave, but The Ivy is not like that. All 4 books are measurably fun, despite there being a love triangle the characters don’t get on your nerves. Callie still remains my least favourite character in the series but she is a lot better than thosee wimpy-whiny troop of heroines we have read and loathed.
Did I mention that I AM TOTALLY MISSING THE CHARACTERS?
I fell in love with each and every character in this series. From OK to Tyler, Every.Single.Person (Lexi and Clint being the exceptions, of course).
See, one of the strongest advantages to have is to write a set of characters that readers will adore, so no matter how obnoxious your storyline becomes, readers will come back to read it just for the sake of them (and yes, I am referring to Through the Ever Night here, Iread tried to read it just for Roar). And not just that book, there are so many other series I continued only because of the characters, so, I think Lauren Kunze has brilliantly nailed this department. And while we’re talking about “nailed stuff”, I should definitely mention the chapter beginnings and all those cliff-hangers. Every chapter in the books began with either an article in a Harvard mag or newspaper, e-mail conversation, someone’s facebook page or a party invite which I think was one of the catchiest things about it, and…..the cliff-hangers. All the first three books ended on such exciting moments that I started reading its sequel the same minute because I just had to know!
So, final assessment :-
- Appealing characters.
- Alluring setting.
- Entertaining writing.
- Engaging plot.
I have no complaints with this series – I was a bit irritated of the love triangle but it gets sidelined in the wake of such amazing, above mentioned factors.
Recommended to everyone who has had a tiring schedule and needs something girly, humorous and obsessive to cheer up! :D
Overall series 3.5 to 4 Stars.
So, I read the 2nd, 3rd and 4th books in one go and don’t remember much of the story because it’s all mixed up in my head but one thing that I am certain of is that I AM MISSING ALL THE CHARACTERS ALREADY!
This series was a fun-filled, fluffy, fantastic experience! My college has been very hectic lately and all I needed to read was a light-hearted series set in a college so I decided to pick this up as I had enjoyed the first book, more or less.
There is not much in-depth story in these books; they center around a girl named Callie and her love-triangle in Harvard. I know, all of us are BORED TO DEATH of love-triangles and it was not given any special treatment in this series either. The love triangle in this case was as equally frustrating and exciting and then frustrating again like in the other books. Rest of the plot is also recycled and borrowed from other TV Shows or books we’ve read; it’s not very new or extraordinary.
But I
The university in which I study, Manipal Univeristy, Manipal is my country’s most “happening” college and people drooool over because we get our degrees just for partying day and night but now that I’ve read about Harvard, my college looks like a duck egg in front of it. If I start writing about it, this will turn into a Harvard Promotional Ad rather than a review because I am THAT smitten by it as of now. The main theme of this series was to write about Harvard and its lifestyle; characters, plot, everything takes a back seat here and while writing good amount of attention was paid towards all the criteria. Studying, relationships, competitions, frenemies and enemies were written into the story very well and proportionately. Not one aspect was promoted or ignored too much.
Another thing to mention is that the writing is very consistent. There are some series you read where one book stands out and becomes your favourite or a book is so bad that leads the series to its grave, but The Ivy is not like that. All 4 books are measurably fun, despite there being a love triangle the characters don’t get on your nerves. Callie still remains my least favourite character in the series but she is a lot better than thosee wimpy-whiny troop of heroines we have read and loathed.
Did I mention that I AM TOTALLY MISSING THE CHARACTERS?
I fell in love with each and every character in this series. From OK to Tyler, Every.Single.Person (Lexi and Clint being the exceptions, of course).
See, one of the strongest advantages to have is to write a set of characters that readers will adore, so no matter how obnoxious your storyline becomes, readers will come back to read it just for the sake of them (and yes, I am referring to Through the Ever Night here, I
So, final assessment :-
- Appealing characters.
- Alluring setting.
- Entertaining writing.
- Engaging plot.
I have no complaints with this series – I was a bit irritated of the love triangle but it gets sidelined in the wake of such amazing, above mentioned factors.
Recommended to everyone who has had a tiring schedule and needs something girly, humorous and obsessive to cheer up! :D
March 5, 2013
I cannot freaking wait!
That ending.... I just don't even know what to say. If I could have, I would have thrown my Nook across the room at that ending!!
December FEBRUARY cannot come soon enough!
**Updated after reading**
Can I just say, I am SO happy that this FINALLY had a complete ending?! I believe this is the last book, BUT with this series I still wasn't sure things wouldn't be left hanging off a freaking cliff - with firey lava pouring at it. Me, exaggerating? Read the first three books, and you tell me I'm exaggerating. Haha.
That said.. I loved this book, and couldn't put it down, literally.
Never a shortage of drama in these, that's for sure. And, the humor mixed in always makes me laugh out loud.
If only we had a BIT more Gregory/Callie time, I'd really enjoy a novella about their summer BTW. A novella filled with fluffy goodness! Just a suggestion ;)
I do wish it had been longer, so I would have been forced to savor it, instead of devouring it like I did.
But, all in all, amazing. Like the three that came before it.
Can't wait to read more from Lauren in the future :)
5 million-billion-Harvard stars!
That ending.... I just don't even know what to say. If I could have, I would have thrown my Nook across the room at that ending!!
**Updated after reading**
Can I just say, I am SO happy that this FINALLY had a complete ending?! I believe this is the last book, BUT with this series I still wasn't sure things wouldn't be left hanging off a freaking cliff - with firey lava pouring at it. Me, exaggerating? Read the first three books, and you tell me I'm exaggerating. Haha.
That said.. I loved this book, and couldn't put it down, literally.
Never a shortage of drama in these, that's for sure. And, the humor mixed in always makes me laugh out loud.
If only we had a BIT more Gregory/Callie time, I'd really enjoy a novella about their summer BTW. A novella filled with fluffy goodness! Just a suggestion ;)
I do wish it had been longer, so I would have been forced to savor it, instead of devouring it like I did.
But, all in all, amazing. Like the three that came before it.
Can't wait to read more from Lauren in the future :)
5 million-billion-Harvard stars!
March 2, 2013
So I'm going to be honest, I have been putting off writing this review. Most because I'd quite know what to say. That being said, this is less of a review and more of a reaction. So there may be some spoiler type stuff but no big reveals. Basically if you are super sensitive about endings or stuff i guess stay away, but I dont have the spoilers on because I'm not naming names or anything.
The first thing that I need to address is I guess the obvious question: is that the end? Is it all over then? It seemed to all get wrapped up so nicely there at the end I guess it was, but part of me won't give up hope that thus was just a pretty bow to top off freshman year and we would be seeing Callie again with more drama with the Sophomore Slump. Keeping my fingers crossed on that one. I'm not ready to part with Callie and the gang of C 23 and C 24.
A pretty good reason for not being ready to let go is the serious deprivation of Gregory Bolton in this book. I know they say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but that didn't make me miss him any less. I think I liked it better when he was giving Callie the cold shoulder-- at least he was there. however, his return was pretty darn adorable.
And, as with any good book where they hide away the leading man till the end, this really showed growth and character development for Callie, she is much more confident in herself now and it was a bit refreshing to see her story not quite revolving around her love life. It showed another side of her. Thus another reason I need more Ivy, I want to see the pay off of these developments.
I have so many more thoughts on this book but most of them are just random or can't really be put into coherent sentences so I'm going to leave this at that. These books are the best, some of my favorite "supporting" (not a strong enough word) characters I've ever read and I just love the mixed media- never leaving a dull moment. I hope I will be seeing more of the Wigglesworth gang, but if its not meant to be, I'm content with where their story got cut short.
The first thing that I need to address is I guess the obvious question: is that the end? Is it all over then? It seemed to all get wrapped up so nicely there at the end I guess it was, but part of me won't give up hope that thus was just a pretty bow to top off freshman year and we would be seeing Callie again with more drama with the Sophomore Slump. Keeping my fingers crossed on that one. I'm not ready to part with Callie and the gang of C 23 and C 24.
A pretty good reason for not being ready to let go is the serious deprivation of Gregory Bolton in this book. I know they say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but that didn't make me miss him any less. I think I liked it better when he was giving Callie the cold shoulder-- at least he was there. however, his return was pretty darn adorable.
And, as with any good book where they hide away the leading man till the end, this really showed growth and character development for Callie, she is much more confident in herself now and it was a bit refreshing to see her story not quite revolving around her love life. It showed another side of her. Thus another reason I need more Ivy, I want to see the pay off of these developments.
I have so many more thoughts on this book but most of them are just random or can't really be put into coherent sentences so I'm going to leave this at that. These books are the best, some of my favorite "supporting" (not a strong enough word) characters I've ever read and I just love the mixed media- never leaving a dull moment. I hope I will be seeing more of the Wigglesworth gang, but if its not meant to be, I'm content with where their story got cut short.
May 15, 2013
Can't wait until December!!!!!!!!!! Every book has had a cliffhanger and the one at the end of the third book has left me wanting more! All of the characters are completely different, but they complete each other! I especially love the relationships between the roomates and Callie and Gregory! I know Scandal will be just as fantastic as the others... if not better!
Does anyone know how many books are going to be in the series?
Does anyone know how many books are going to be in the series?
July 24, 2013
This a duo review so Italicize is my marvelous sister Rebecca and non-italicize is me.
I enjoyed the book, and felt like it was a nice ending to the series. I really liked how secondary characters like Dana were utilized more in this book.
Scandal was a wonderful final installment of the Ivy Series. The book caused me to laugh uncontrollably many times. I love how Callie matured from her past mistakes and did not deny her previous blunders. The Ivy Insider mystery was dissected into the story piece by piece splendidly.
My favorite scene was the prologue with Gregory. I expected the story to go in Gregory's direction a bit because of that scene and the note he left for Callie was intriguing.
My favorite? Matt, Callie and Grace at Grace’s protest. Matt, you were so brave. I am proud of you!
My favorite character was Matt-- so much so that I almost thought he was the Ivy Insider (which was proven wrong in the first chapter), I just thought he was a nice, solid character.
Alessandra was the most incredible character in Scandal in my view. She is a girl who struggled and tried to be a good person. Her back-story and regret touched my heart.
I wanted to learn more about how Callie's parents and teachers felt about the accusation that she was the Ivy Insider. It seemed like the older adults would have made an interesting contrast to the administrators who didn't even know Callie, and enemies like Lexi. I also really liked Gregory, so I was disappointed that he was not in the book as much as the other books. Since the book uses multiple perspectives, I believe that could have been an opportunity to write half the book in Callie’s POV and the other half in Gregory's POV. That could have been a nice change in format.
Great idea Rebecca! I still wonder about Gregory feelings and experiences while he was AWOL. He was my favorite character in the other books and I am sad that he did not gleam during my experience of the finale. Additionally, I wish he had a chance to meet Callie’s high school best friend Jessica like the rest of Callie’s group. Another change I would have wished for was Gregory not making another misjudgment base on something he read. Especially from an obviously Lexi controlled Harvard Crimson. After the note debacle in Secret, I would have thought he learned from that mistake.
Comparing to my freshman year: I went through the same experiences that Callie did in developing relationships with people and finding a group of friends -- but not quite as dramatically. I also worked on the school newspaper, but didn't need to go through that COMP process.
I think the dramatic element of the story fit the fact that it was a young adult series. I do believe conflict and dynamics between characters is an important device to drive the story forward. Through authentic dialogue and well-developed characters the author worked with her material well without delving into melodrama. Therefore since the story was driven by conflict and drama and since it's audience was young adults the drama within the story was fine.
True! I am amazed by how the dramatic tone of the series made the books authentic. All the rough events Callie and her friends went through kept the book amusing as it explored troubles these new adults face – financially difficulty, infidelity (the non-marriage cheating kind), jealousy, betrayal, media fraud and more. The surface drama leads to each characters overall growth. In the beginning, Callie, Vanessa, Dana, Mimi, OK, Gregory, Matt and Adam were strangers. And in the end they were all together happy. A group I would love to know in reality.
Favorite Quotes:
Jessica to Callie:
"In order to beat Lexi at her own game, you're going to have to start thinking like her. No more Mrs. Innocent California Girl. It's time to bend a few rules, before you get kicked out for violating ones you didn't even break in the first place"
(page 161)
“Meaning that it’s time to forget James Franco and start focusing on you, and your own personal spiritual journey to self-actualization and independence.” (page 77)
And finally our favorite Ivy book:
The second book is my favorite because I like the conflict caused by that note that Callie wrote to Vanessa.
Yes! Secrets was my favorite too. So many amazing scenes like the limerick event, the squash match between Clint and Gregory, and the note events. All my favorite lines linger in Secrets.
Originally posted on Unforgettable Books
I enjoyed the book, and felt like it was a nice ending to the series. I really liked how secondary characters like Dana were utilized more in this book.
Scandal was a wonderful final installment of the Ivy Series. The book caused me to laugh uncontrollably many times. I love how Callie matured from her past mistakes and did not deny her previous blunders. The Ivy Insider mystery was dissected into the story piece by piece splendidly.
My favorite scene was the prologue with Gregory. I expected the story to go in Gregory's direction a bit because of that scene and the note he left for Callie was intriguing.
My favorite? Matt, Callie and Grace at Grace’s protest. Matt, you were so brave. I am proud of you!
My favorite character was Matt-- so much so that I almost thought he was the Ivy Insider (which was proven wrong in the first chapter), I just thought he was a nice, solid character.
Alessandra was the most incredible character in Scandal in my view. She is a girl who struggled and tried to be a good person. Her back-story and regret touched my heart.
I wanted to learn more about how Callie's parents and teachers felt about the accusation that she was the Ivy Insider. It seemed like the older adults would have made an interesting contrast to the administrators who didn't even know Callie, and enemies like Lexi. I also really liked Gregory, so I was disappointed that he was not in the book as much as the other books. Since the book uses multiple perspectives, I believe that could have been an opportunity to write half the book in Callie’s POV and the other half in Gregory's POV. That could have been a nice change in format.
Great idea Rebecca! I still wonder about Gregory feelings and experiences while he was AWOL. He was my favorite character in the other books and I am sad that he did not gleam during my experience of the finale. Additionally, I wish he had a chance to meet Callie’s high school best friend Jessica like the rest of Callie’s group. Another change I would have wished for was Gregory not making another misjudgment base on something he read. Especially from an obviously Lexi controlled Harvard Crimson. After the note debacle in Secret, I would have thought he learned from that mistake.
Comparing to my freshman year: I went through the same experiences that Callie did in developing relationships with people and finding a group of friends -- but not quite as dramatically. I also worked on the school newspaper, but didn't need to go through that COMP process.
I think the dramatic element of the story fit the fact that it was a young adult series. I do believe conflict and dynamics between characters is an important device to drive the story forward. Through authentic dialogue and well-developed characters the author worked with her material well without delving into melodrama. Therefore since the story was driven by conflict and drama and since it's audience was young adults the drama within the story was fine.
True! I am amazed by how the dramatic tone of the series made the books authentic. All the rough events Callie and her friends went through kept the book amusing as it explored troubles these new adults face – financially difficulty, infidelity (the non-marriage cheating kind), jealousy, betrayal, media fraud and more. The surface drama leads to each characters overall growth. In the beginning, Callie, Vanessa, Dana, Mimi, OK, Gregory, Matt and Adam were strangers. And in the end they were all together happy. A group I would love to know in reality.
Favorite Quotes:
Jessica to Callie:
"In order to beat Lexi at her own game, you're going to have to start thinking like her. No more Mrs. Innocent California Girl. It's time to bend a few rules, before you get kicked out for violating ones you didn't even break in the first place"
(page 161)
“Meaning that it’s time to forget James Franco and start focusing on you, and your own personal spiritual journey to self-actualization and independence.” (page 77)
And finally our favorite Ivy book:
The second book is my favorite because I like the conflict caused by that note that Callie wrote to Vanessa.
Yes! Secrets was my favorite too. So many amazing scenes like the limerick event, the squash match between Clint and Gregory, and the note events. All my favorite lines linger in Secrets.
Originally posted on Unforgettable Books
March 3, 2017
Can't wait! I just finished the 3rd book I'm dying to know what happens!
May 3, 2014
I have to say, this was the best one yet, but at the same time, I will always be slightly torn between this and the first book, since Gregory was gone the majority of this book, and no, it is not a shocker that he comes back in the end - so keep your mouth closed. SO...:
1. Clint Weber +1
Positives: Callie didn't give into him! She didn't ever think "oh, Clint, how I miss you." Nope. Not at all. Way to go Callie!
Negatives: I've got nothing :D
2. Mimi's French +/-0
Positives: So, I've put this in every review I've done for The Ivy, but I really didn't mind in this book. Sure, I barely understood some stuff she said, but it didn't really matter to me now.
Negatives: I still barely understood it, but I've learned to deal with it.
3. OK's Mystery Guest +.5
Positives: So, I guess it's not 100% obvious who it is, but you all probably know anyway. Either way, I will not ruin it. I think it was cute that this little 'mystery' was added into the book. Kudos to Kunze.
Negatives: Um, it was kind of obvious so I can't believe none of her roommates confronted her.
4. Gregory Bolton +.5
Positives: The less you're there, the more I want you. 'Nuff said.
Negatives: I didn't really understand the thing with his dad. He was using his OWN money to help his company. Kind of confused me. If any of you get this, please tell me 'cause I really don't understand. Honestly, please help me understand. And also, really Gregory, you couldn't write? I don't care if she's moved on, TAKE CONTROL!
5. Alessandra Constantine +1
Positives: Okay, I know we all kind of hated her, and until the end of this book I still did, too. The events that come to light in the end, even though they don't really make her a better person, really helped the story, like it actually MADE the story. So, the 'plastic' character was worth it.
Negatives: Really, why'd you have to do that to Callie?
6. Plot and Story-line/Pace +/-0
Positives: First, the pace was PERFECT. So much better than any of the other books. It just felt ... perfect. And the story-line, well I've covered that with the other subjects pretty much, so...
Negatives: None, I LOVED IT!
So if you add this up correctly it's 5.5 ... yes, I would actually rate this book that if I could. Obviously, you have to read the whole series to get here, but the ending is absolutely the best part. The fact that Kunze and Onur kept the final resolution until the end of the series irked me the whole way through, but in the end I'm so much happier that they did that. If I had to put the books in order from my favorite to least, not based on my rating, it would be: Scandal, Rivals, The Ivy, and then Secrets.
I'm usually a paranormal-romance reader, no matter how much I try to be just a romance reader, or just a general reader ... in general. This book really helped me with this goal. For something that isn't my super-specific genre, I really have to say: I loved it! So, what are you waiting for?! Go take off for the weekend, sit down with your books, and enroll at Harvard for your first course in The Ivy 101: Wigglesworth Roommates.
1. Clint Weber +1
Positives: Callie didn't give into him! She didn't ever think "oh, Clint, how I miss you." Nope. Not at all. Way to go Callie!
Negatives: I've got nothing :D
2. Mimi's French +/-0
Positives: So, I've put this in every review I've done for The Ivy, but I really didn't mind in this book. Sure, I barely understood some stuff she said, but it didn't really matter to me now.
Negatives: I still barely understood it, but I've learned to deal with it.
3. OK's Mystery Guest +.5
Positives: So, I guess it's not 100% obvious who it is, but you all probably know anyway. Either way, I will not ruin it. I think it was cute that this little 'mystery' was added into the book. Kudos to Kunze.
Negatives: Um, it was kind of obvious so I can't believe none of her roommates confronted her.
4. Gregory Bolton +.5
Positives: The less you're there, the more I want you. 'Nuff said.
Negatives: I didn't really understand the thing with his dad. He was using his OWN money to help his company. Kind of confused me. If any of you get this, please tell me 'cause I really don't understand. Honestly, please help me understand. And also, really Gregory, you couldn't write? I don't care if she's moved on, TAKE CONTROL!
5. Alessandra Constantine +1
Positives: Okay, I know we all kind of hated her, and until the end of this book I still did, too. The events that come to light in the end, even though they don't really make her a better person, really helped the story, like it actually MADE the story. So, the 'plastic' character was worth it.
Negatives: Really, why'd you have to do that to Callie?
6. Plot and Story-line/Pace +/-0
Positives: First, the pace was PERFECT. So much better than any of the other books. It just felt ... perfect. And the story-line, well I've covered that with the other subjects pretty much, so...
Negatives: None, I LOVED IT!
So if you add this up correctly it's 5.5 ... yes, I would actually rate this book that if I could. Obviously, you have to read the whole series to get here, but the ending is absolutely the best part. The fact that Kunze and Onur kept the final resolution until the end of the series irked me the whole way through, but in the end I'm so much happier that they did that. If I had to put the books in order from my favorite to least, not based on my rating, it would be: Scandal, Rivals, The Ivy, and then Secrets.
I'm usually a paranormal-romance reader, no matter how much I try to be just a romance reader, or just a general reader ... in general. This book really helped me with this goal. For something that isn't my super-specific genre, I really have to say: I loved it! So, what are you waiting for?! Go take off for the weekend, sit down with your books, and enroll at Harvard for your first course in The Ivy 101: Wigglesworth Roommates.
June 4, 2013
Oh gosh, I can't believe this is the end. This was such a good series/guilty pleasure, and I don't think I'll find another one quite like it. So Lauren Kunze and Rina Onur, you guys have to write more of these!! I am going to miss all the characters, specially Mimi and OK!
The Ivy series has always been a kind of gossip girl drama book but for college chicks. It had everything you need in good chick lit: secrets, rivals, CUTE boys, and lots of scandal (was that 3/4 titles of the books in the series? Didn't realize ;) ) All the books were a quick easy read, specially Scandal! I did, however, have some minor issues with it:
1. It was way too obvious. I guessed everything that was going to happen. Specially who the Ivy Insider was (knew ever since I finished reading Rivals, it was way too obvious). I found myself screaming at Cassie to get her act together, how could she possibly NOT know this is the person who screwed her over? Again, I was a bit annoyed that these "super smart" HARVARD students couldn't have figured it out sooner.
2. No Gregory for OVER HALF the novel. KILL ME NOW! I wanted more of Gregory! But I guess if he had been in the picture, well, everything would have been resolved much more sooner. And maybe it was on purpose to have me pull at my hair, frustrated with the fact that we get plenty of Clint but not enough Gregory (not cool Lauren and Rina!).
3. There is no sequel. What the heck! I need a fix!
So yes, these were small issues that I had with the novel, but they didn't retract from my enjoyment of the final book of the IVY series. I am sure going to miss reading about these kids getting in trouble, getting mixed signals, being in and out of love... I'm specially going to miss the friendships and rivalries. Scandal was a good ending to a good series, a series that I would recommend to all my friends and frenemies :D
The Ivy series has always been a kind of gossip girl drama book but for college chicks. It had everything you need in good chick lit: secrets, rivals, CUTE boys, and lots of scandal (was that 3/4 titles of the books in the series? Didn't realize ;) ) All the books were a quick easy read, specially Scandal! I did, however, have some minor issues with it:
1. It was way too obvious. I guessed everything that was going to happen. Specially who the Ivy Insider was (knew ever since I finished reading Rivals, it was way too obvious). I found myself screaming at Cassie to get her act together, how could she possibly NOT know this is the person who screwed her over? Again, I was a bit annoyed that these "super smart" HARVARD students couldn't have figured it out sooner.
2. No Gregory for OVER HALF the novel. KILL ME NOW! I wanted more of Gregory! But I guess if he had been in the picture, well, everything would have been resolved much more sooner. And maybe it was on purpose to have me pull at my hair, frustrated with the fact that we get plenty of Clint but not enough Gregory (not cool Lauren and Rina!).
3. There is no sequel. What the heck! I need a fix!
So yes, these were small issues that I had with the novel, but they didn't retract from my enjoyment of the final book of the IVY series. I am sure going to miss reading about these kids getting in trouble, getting mixed signals, being in and out of love... I'm specially going to miss the friendships and rivalries. Scandal was a good ending to a good series, a series that I would recommend to all my friends and frenemies :D
March 19, 2013
As a huge fan of the previous books in this series - especially the first one - I was both excited and disappointed to read Scandal. It had been an entertaining ride, and I wasn't really sure if I was ready to let these characters go. They aren't the best characters ever, not by any means, but they provided enough entertainment to keep me reading well into the night. The Ivy series - prior to Scandal - is a fun and light contemporary that I'd definitely recommend to anyone who wants a break from a heavier read.
While I enjoyed Scandal to an extent, it wasn't as great as I was expecting it to be. Since it's the last book in the series, I was hoping for something that would blow me away, but unfortunately this felt like a filler. And it's the final book!
Full review here: http://www.booksofamber.com/2013/03/s...
While I enjoyed Scandal to an extent, it wasn't as great as I was expecting it to be. Since it's the last book in the series, I was hoping for something that would blow me away, but unfortunately this felt like a filler. And it's the final book!
Full review here: http://www.booksofamber.com/2013/03/s...
May 15, 2013
NOT ENOUGH GREGORY.
March 2, 2013
Great way to end a series! I'm looking forward to reading more by Lauren and Rina.
August 4, 2022
The Ivy series drunklenly stumbles to the finish line with this bloated and unnecessary conclusion.
Callie spends this installment playing detective--and being bad at it, at that. I guessed that was involved at the conclusion of the last book. Somehow, it also finds time for soccer matches and getting blackout drunk....it's almost like the author didn't have enough material for a fourth book, hmm?
Despite continuing to be infuriatingly bland, helpless, and deeply incompetent, Callie will end up getting everything she wants. Yay, I guess?
I'm being unnecessarily harsh, but I just don't know how Kunze managed to pump out FOUR of these books when the only plot is rich people & constant bad communication. Maybe that's the Harvard experience.
I feel like the end message of these books is that all the wealth and status nonsense doesn't matter, but then...the entire series was selling us that lifestyle--this imagined, rich people version of college life. It leaves a bad taste in the mouth.
Callie spends this installment playing detective--and being bad at it, at that. I guessed that was involved at the conclusion of the last book. Somehow, it also finds time for soccer matches and getting blackout drunk....it's almost like the author didn't have enough material for a fourth book, hmm?
Despite continuing to be infuriatingly bland, helpless, and deeply incompetent, Callie will end up getting everything she wants. Yay, I guess?
I'm being unnecessarily harsh, but I just don't know how Kunze managed to pump out FOUR of these books when the only plot is rich people & constant bad communication. Maybe that's the Harvard experience.
I feel like the end message of these books is that all the wealth and status nonsense doesn't matter, but then...the entire series was selling us that lifestyle--this imagined, rich people version of college life. It leaves a bad taste in the mouth.
August 11, 2019
I think this is more of a 3.5, but I’m rounding up because I read the first 3 a while ago and the 4th let me pick it up and remind me of some major plot points so that I didn’t feel confused or like I had forgotten much.
These books have a lot of Gossip Girl style drama except it’s who is The Insider instead.
I was a little bit annoyed with how long it took Callie to figure some things out, but maybe that makes it more realistic.
I feel like all of the characters are pretty well rounded, the writing style is easy and fun, and the plot was entertaining. I just wish there were more books for the next 3 years that the characters have in college (whether they end up staying at Harvard or not).
I’d recommend this series to people who want a fun, easy read that focuses a lot on female friendships/enemies with a decent chunk of romance thrown in.
These books have a lot of Gossip Girl style drama except it’s who is The Insider instead.
I was a little bit annoyed with how long it took Callie to figure some things out, but maybe that makes it more realistic.
I feel like all of the characters are pretty well rounded, the writing style is easy and fun, and the plot was entertaining. I just wish there were more books for the next 3 years that the characters have in college (whether they end up staying at Harvard or not).
I’d recommend this series to people who want a fun, easy read that focuses a lot on female friendships/enemies with a decent chunk of romance thrown in.
May 1, 2020
Hahahaha, yesss. I finished it! I guess this is the last book. I didn't read the third book, so I missed so pretty juicy stuff. This book was okay; I don't really know what I thought about it. I'm glad Callie's problems were solved, but this was soooooo predictable. Well, everything was predictable for that matter. The summary for this book was bad. I liked Clint and Gregory's okay. It's weird how it just ends with their freshman year and the whole "Ivy Insider" wasn't very entertaining. This book was quite bland and, dare I say, anticlimactic? Somehow I actually (somewhat) finished this series because I haven't read an "entire" series in a long time. This book was also inspiring in its on way and I think this series was a "fun" read. My eyes hurt now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2020
This was pretty good, and really easy to read. I did find it a bit irritating that at half-way through the book, Callie didn't even seem to be working on her problems with Gregory or Lexi. It took her freaking forever to find the note from Gregory, and she spent more time partying than trying to find evidence that Lexi was behind the shit that she was about to get expelled for!
Good overall though ☺
Good overall though ☺
February 13, 2021
Ended a bit too soon - wish there were more series with smart writers writing more fluff-type books. The mystery was a bit obvious, the reason for Greg's absence was a bit cheesy, and Callie didn't really become a better person at the end - but the series was a very fun read.
July 13, 2017
garbage
October 12, 2017
I'm so glad this over. I finished. The end. Ugh.
December 26, 2017
Me negaba a terminarlo pero no podía postergarlo por más tiempo.
Wuaaaaaaaa... lloro por dentro!!!
Wuaaaaaaaa... lloro por dentro!!!
December 26, 2018
Mi única queja es que gregory (el "protagonista") desaparece como el 80% del libro... O quizás más...
March 24, 2020
This was good! I loved that it took place in a real college and it was just a lot of fun!
Read
December 5, 2023summer before 7th or 8th grade - edison public library book mobile :)
May 7, 2020
No me gusto. Es tan obvio pero quiere aparentar ser rebuscado y sofisticado, una onda goossip girls, y no lo es. No tengo mucho más q agregar.
March 23, 2013
Sigh. The end of the series. I probably shouldn't be so involved in a young adult series, but I loved this one. Probably because it was just the right mix of realistic college experience and absurdity. It's no surprise that authors Lauren Kunze and Rina Onur attended Harvard University because at a lot of times this reads like a peak inside America's oldest institution of higher learning. But at the same time it's just a little too glossy. Still, this world of Finals Clubs and rivaling newspaper editors is delightfully engaging.
Callie Andrews thought everything was finally on track. She had a promising career ahead of her at the Harvard Crimson, she had finally confessed her feelings (and had them returned) to Gregory, and made up with roommate frenemy, Vanessa. But after stepping off the plane from Spring break everything suddenly collapses. Gregory disappears overnight amidst his family's Ponzi scheme scandal and Callie is accused of being the "Ivy Insider" that wreaked havoc last term. Callie knows she's innocent but the only way to prove it is to find out who actually is behind the scathing articles. With the threat of expulsion over her head and a missing almost boyfriend, Callie's final term of Freshman year is sure to be a doozy.
I think I spent half my reviews of the first three Ivy series books defending my choice to read them. I wont bother to do that here. Despite the fact that this book was written for young adults there is really a lot of love about these. The characters are well developed and diverse, the pace is quick, and the plots are a good mix between adult and teen, leading to the appeal for probably a large group of readers.
The thing that really sort of impressed me about this series was that the guys weren't too perfect. Okay, sure, there was Clint but it was clear that his too perfectness was suspect. Gregory, Callie's other suitor who continually seemed to be out of step regarding communication with the protagonist, was flawed despite the fact that he was perfect for Callie. He jumped to conclusions too quickly, was somewhat arrogant, and was a pretty hardcore womanizer when he wasn't pining for Callie. In other words, he was a little more real than the perfect gentlemen young adult fiction is often faced with.
Usually I'm happy when series end after just a couple books because it makes them more manageable, easier to begin when there is an end in sight. When I started this I had no idea if it would be the final book or not, and then I found myself disappointed at the end when I realized it was the final installment. It's probably for the best, but this series will be missed!
Callie Andrews thought everything was finally on track. She had a promising career ahead of her at the Harvard Crimson, she had finally confessed her feelings (and had them returned) to Gregory, and made up with roommate frenemy, Vanessa. But after stepping off the plane from Spring break everything suddenly collapses. Gregory disappears overnight amidst his family's Ponzi scheme scandal and Callie is accused of being the "Ivy Insider" that wreaked havoc last term. Callie knows she's innocent but the only way to prove it is to find out who actually is behind the scathing articles. With the threat of expulsion over her head and a missing almost boyfriend, Callie's final term of Freshman year is sure to be a doozy.
I think I spent half my reviews of the first three Ivy series books defending my choice to read them. I wont bother to do that here. Despite the fact that this book was written for young adults there is really a lot of love about these. The characters are well developed and diverse, the pace is quick, and the plots are a good mix between adult and teen, leading to the appeal for probably a large group of readers.
The thing that really sort of impressed me about this series was that the guys weren't too perfect. Okay, sure, there was Clint but it was clear that his too perfectness was suspect. Gregory, Callie's other suitor who continually seemed to be out of step regarding communication with the protagonist, was flawed despite the fact that he was perfect for Callie. He jumped to conclusions too quickly, was somewhat arrogant, and was a pretty hardcore womanizer when he wasn't pining for Callie. In other words, he was a little more real than the perfect gentlemen young adult fiction is often faced with.
Usually I'm happy when series end after just a couple books because it makes them more manageable, easier to begin when there is an end in sight. When I started this I had no idea if it would be the final book or not, and then I found myself disappointed at the end when I realized it was the final installment. It's probably for the best, but this series will be missed!
March 26, 2019
1st re-read
Stupid Microsoft Edge lost my whole review. Pissed off to no end atm 😠
Anyway.
Apart from book #1, I didn't really enjoy the rest as much as I did 7 years ago.
Callie was not as nice as advertised, always finding fault in others and judging them so harshly when she is no better. The guy she claims to be in love with is at risk of financial ruin and the only thing she could think about was that he should have broken up with his then girlfriend first, and then worry about his stupid money problem. What a catch, right?
Also, I never really got the constant misunderstandings that kept surrounding Callie for no reason, other than the fact that she was actually unable to communicate properly with anyone, and that means friends and boyfriends. She always seemed to wait from other to come and talk to her, apologise or make the first move and why? Because she's queen Callie and that is how it should be. Um, no.
Some slut and body shaming as well, which back then I was not educated or aware enough to even detect.
Gregory and Mimi were still amazing, the books' only saving grace.
Verdict: 👎 I am really and truly sorry, but this series didn't stand the test of time :/
1st readNot as good as its predecessors (no Gregory girls :( but still pretty good. I would have liked it to be more Callie - Gregory focused and not Ivy Insider focused, especially when Insider's revelation was anticlimactic at best. Oh well.
Stupid Microsoft Edge lost my whole review. Pissed off to no end atm 😠
Anyway.
Apart from book #1, I didn't really enjoy the rest as much as I did 7 years ago.
Callie was not as nice as advertised, always finding fault in others and judging them so harshly when she is no better. The guy she claims to be in love with is at risk of financial ruin and the only thing she could think about was that he should have broken up with his then girlfriend first, and then worry about his stupid money problem. What a catch, right?
Also, I never really got the constant misunderstandings that kept surrounding Callie for no reason, other than the fact that she was actually unable to communicate properly with anyone, and that means friends and boyfriends. She always seemed to wait from other to come and talk to her, apologise or make the first move and why? Because she's queen Callie and that is how it should be. Um, no.
Some slut and body shaming as well, which back then I was not educated or aware enough to even detect.
Gregory and Mimi were still amazing, the books' only saving grace.
Verdict: 👎 I am really and truly sorry, but this series didn't stand the test of time :/
1st readNot as good as its predecessors (no Gregory girls :( but still pretty good. I would have liked it to be more Callie - Gregory focused and not Ivy Insider focused, especially when Insider's revelation was anticlimactic at best. Oh well.
March 2, 2013
GAHHHHH I can't believe it's over! Even though the series took place in the span of a year, it felt longer (and not because the books took years to come out haha). It's sad to see a lovely series to come to an end): But I'm happy the way the series ended as it did. I was expecting some dramatic twist (as there have been so many throughout the series!) but no, the end is the end. I usually have trouble remembering situations and characters in series because I read so many and it's hard to keep track of them all (especially since I have to retain everything before being refreshed on everything after a year!), but I had no problem remembering this series because I love it that much(: I've laughed just as much (if not more) for Scandal as I have for the last 3 books. Romance wasn't as heavily emphasized (or at least wasn't in my opinion) in this book as the others, with the exception of a few scenes here and there, but all the important romance questions are answered. I have no clue where I'm going to get my heavy drama from now haha Of all the series I've read, I haven't read anything with more drama as this! Thank you to Lauren and Rina for writing an amazing series. I hope to see future work from both of you whether it'd be individually or a collab again(:
May 3, 2013
This book was really amazing!The whole series was flawless!
Last summer, in a rush to get books for my vacation, I picked up The Ivy to read. And during my trip, my book was always attached to me because it was so amazingly awesome! After finishing the third book (Rivals), I had to wait until... well NOW, because my library didn't have it until recently! The last book made me wonder what on EARTH would happen to Callie and it was just SO annoying having to wait, but still, totally worth it.
In the last book of The Ivy series, Gregory is gone, Callie is being framed for being the Ivy Insider, and her hearing to prove her innocence is rapidly approaching. WHOA
I was beyond excited when I finally got my hands on this book, and while I thought that the first little bit was a bit slow, the plot started getting better and better after each page!
The ending was satisfying and I was happy :)
Last summer, in a rush to get books for my vacation, I picked up The Ivy to read. And during my trip, my book was always attached to me because it was so amazingly awesome! After finishing the third book (Rivals), I had to wait until... well NOW, because my library didn't have it until recently! The last book made me wonder what on EARTH would happen to Callie and it was just SO annoying having to wait, but still, totally worth it.
In the last book of The Ivy series, Gregory is gone, Callie is being framed for being the Ivy Insider, and her hearing to prove her innocence is rapidly approaching. WHOA
I was beyond excited when I finally got my hands on this book, and while I thought that the first little bit was a bit slow, the plot started getting better and better after each page!
The ending was satisfying and I was happy :)
March 9, 2013
I couldn't put this book down, especially after the cliff hanger from the last book!
As a writer, I understand when a story has run its course but as a reader I want more. What happens over the summer? Alexis isn't gone, surely she'll start something up next year. Will Callie play soccer?
I'm just sayin'!
This series is keeps moving which I love. There isn't a dull moment. And the relationship between the girls is great. Funny. Clever. Non-stop silly girlness. Reminds me of those funny nights with my roomies in college. I'm glad they brought Dana more into the story. She's funny in a bland sort of way.
Some story lines were a little predictable which I didn't have a problem with because the author did a great job of making you question the trip while getting you there.
Nice ending but I wouldn't be apposed to read more about Callie and of course Mr. Bolton!
As a writer, I understand when a story has run its course but as a reader I want more. What happens over the summer? Alexis isn't gone, surely she'll start something up next year. Will Callie play soccer?
I'm just sayin'!
This series is keeps moving which I love. There isn't a dull moment. And the relationship between the girls is great. Funny. Clever. Non-stop silly girlness. Reminds me of those funny nights with my roomies in college. I'm glad they brought Dana more into the story. She's funny in a bland sort of way.
Some story lines were a little predictable which I didn't have a problem with because the author did a great job of making you question the trip while getting you there.
Nice ending but I wouldn't be apposed to read more about Callie and of course Mr. Bolton!
June 28, 2013
Finally, I made a time to read it during my thesis-in-progress phase! Hahaha
This fourth installment of The Ivy, just like the previous ones, reminds me so much of beautiful days as a freshman. Well, the naive me was still so idealist over her choice of major that time, but that personality of mine turned out made me everything good possible. I participated in and tried a lot of cool things when I was in freshman which I found giving me a lot of benefits to my networking ability.
As for the book itself, though there are a lot of dramas inside, I still appreciate how journalism played the most part here as a theme. The characters in this book are mostly writers, which wrote for Harvard's prestigious papers! I wish I discovered my passion in writing when I was a freshman, just like Callie here. Oh whatever--it's all in the past already. Better late than never! :)
This fourth installment of The Ivy, just like the previous ones, reminds me so much of beautiful days as a freshman. Well, the naive me was still so idealist over her choice of major that time, but that personality of mine turned out made me everything good possible. I participated in and tried a lot of cool things when I was in freshman which I found giving me a lot of benefits to my networking ability.
As for the book itself, though there are a lot of dramas inside, I still appreciate how journalism played the most part here as a theme. The characters in this book are mostly writers, which wrote for Harvard's prestigious papers! I wish I discovered my passion in writing when I was a freshman, just like Callie here. Oh whatever--it's all in the past already. Better late than never! :)
April 2, 2015
I didn't like the first book all that much. I found it kind of dumb and I thought the main character, Callie, was too stupid to be at Harvard. I referred to her as the fifth member to the Pretty Little Liars. But later, Callie proved me wrong. It's safe to safe the series redeemed itself with the second book. It became so much more enjoyable to read. The characters were more likeable and the story was just more interesting.
This fourth book was great. Like many other readers, I was rather upset that Gregory was absent for a long period of time during the book. Nevertheless, Callie was able to live without him for a while. I mean sure, she missed him and all but she carried on just fine. I mean, she didn't go all Bella Swan and moped around for the whole time Gregory was gone. Everything turned out right in the end.
This fourth book was great. Like many other readers, I was rather upset that Gregory was absent for a long period of time during the book. Nevertheless, Callie was able to live without him for a while. I mean sure, she missed him and all but she carried on just fine. I mean, she didn't go all Bella Swan and moped around for the whole time Gregory was gone. Everything turned out right in the end.
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