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The Ivy Years #2.5, 5.5, 5.6
Extra Credit
Three novellas, including all new Ivy Years fun!
BLONDE A nervous sorority girl, a mean fraternity prank and an adorkable basketball player with a heart of gold. Blonde Date follows Katie and Andy’s first blind date…
STUDLY One hunky hockey player with a language barrier. Plus one awkward English tutor with a big crush. Equals hot, hilarious trouble! Study Period follows Pepe and his tutor Josie.
It’s been seven years since John Rikker left his childhood home in Michigan. Surely that’s long enough to scar over the wounds he received there. Or is it? Can Rikker survive a visit with his parents? And can Graham let him do it alone?
BLONDE A nervous sorority girl, a mean fraternity prank and an adorkable basketball player with a heart of gold. Blonde Date follows Katie and Andy’s first blind date…
STUDLY One hunky hockey player with a language barrier. Plus one awkward English tutor with a big crush. Equals hot, hilarious trouble! Study Period follows Pepe and his tutor Josie.
It’s been seven years since John Rikker left his childhood home in Michigan. Surely that’s long enough to scar over the wounds he received there. Or is it? Can Rikker survive a visit with his parents? And can Graham let him do it alone?
234 pages, ebook
First published March 9, 2019
399 people are currently reading
1450 people want to read
About the author
Sarina Bowen
105 books18.8k followers
Sarina Bowen is the 24-time USA Today bestselling and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary fiction, including: The Five Year Lie, the True North series, and the Brooklyn Hockey series. She's the co-author of Him/Us and the WAGs series with Elle Kennedy. And more!
You can find a complete reading order list of Sarina's books on her website. Or see what's coming next from Sarina, and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss a new book or a deal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
June 3, 2019
4.5 stars
I only read Rikker and Graham's story and they did not disappoint.
This was the much needed epilogue that was missing in the USOTY.
Loved! Loved it!
I only read Rikker and Graham's story and they did not disappoint.
This was the much needed epilogue that was missing in the USOTY.
Loved! Loved it!
March 17, 2019
4 stars
Sarina Bowen’s The Ivy Years series is one of my top favorite new adult series. I love the books so much. Extra Credit is three novellas written about these characters. I was so happy to get my hands on this! I couldn’t be more thrilled to be back in this world.
Blonde Date is the only novella out of the three I had already read. It’s been a few years, but I loved it just as much as I did the first time. Andy and Kate’s story is a great and it was fun to re-read it.
Studly Period was probably my favorite of the three. I remember adoring Pepe as a side character in the other books and I loved him even more in this one. Pepe falls for his shy and awkward English tutor, Josie. This story was seriously the sweetest and so much fun to read.
Yesterday… lets be real here. It was the reason I picked up this book. I mean, more Rikker and Graham? Yes please! I love these boys so much and I’m always happy to get more of them.
If you’re a fan of The Ivy Years series, you need this book in your life. And if you haven’t read them yet, I’m going to have to insist you do that asap!! <3
Sarina Bowen’s The Ivy Years series is one of my top favorite new adult series. I love the books so much. Extra Credit is three novellas written about these characters. I was so happy to get my hands on this! I couldn’t be more thrilled to be back in this world.
Blonde Date is the only novella out of the three I had already read. It’s been a few years, but I loved it just as much as I did the first time. Andy and Kate’s story is a great and it was fun to re-read it.
Studly Period was probably my favorite of the three. I remember adoring Pepe as a side character in the other books and I loved him even more in this one. Pepe falls for his shy and awkward English tutor, Josie. This story was seriously the sweetest and so much fun to read.
Yesterday… lets be real here. It was the reason I picked up this book. I mean, more Rikker and Graham? Yes please! I love these boys so much and I’m always happy to get more of them.
If you’re a fan of The Ivy Years series, you need this book in your life. And if you haven’t read them yet, I’m going to have to insist you do that asap!! <3
July 14, 2019
My rating is for Yesterday only, I haven't read the other two novellas.
Rikker and Graham are one of my favourite couples ever, and I loved reading more about them. This was a wonderful addition to their story. I loved everything about it, it was just perfect.
Rikker and Graham are one of my favourite couples ever, and I loved reading more about them. This was a wonderful addition to their story. I loved everything about it, it was just perfect.
March 14, 2019
Having read the first two novellas a while back and enjoying them, and because I can't get enough of Graham and Rikker I decided to just read their novella. The boys are back and I loved reading more about them!
They are just so damn sweet together - hockey players and sweet .... let me just think about that .... well why not, they are just that!
They are just so damn sweet together - hockey players and sweet .... let me just think about that .... well why not, they are just that!
March 30, 2019
Bang for your buck!
Or if you're a KU member FREE! (sort of)
Blonde Date - 3.5 ⭐️
I never read this before. I'm not sure why but I just never pulled the triggered on this one. I think it was because I thought the Katies were both vapid twits but K1 has recently been through an eye opening experience with a douchey frat boy that's given her a little depth.
Andy is 16 different kinds of cute though with his self-deprecating, string bean-y self. All of his chapters during the sexy times deserve their own stars. #priceless
Cute and fluffy is SB's bread and butter. However, as cute as this is, I can see the improvement in SB's writes from whenever she originally penned this to now.
Studly Period - 3.5 ⭐️
I read this as a WIP Studly Period. I *still* wish it were longer. And Pepe can *still* get directly into my pocket, please.
Yesterday - 4.25 ⭐️
Graham and Rikker were my favorite characters in The Ivy Years series and I love SB for giving us updates on them periodically.
This takes place only a few months after the end of The Understatement of the Year. They're back in their old stomping ground of Michigan for a visit. Naturally there's family drama because Rikker's mom is a...
Rikker's dad surprised me though and my heart goes out to him. He's in a helluva pickle. Thankfully Graham's parents are straight gold.
I think what keeps me saddling up to the SB trough to glut myself is her ability to bring the feels. Sometimes she can gut me with just a handful of words:
Just that simple reminder of how stressful the reality of having to repeatedly come out is and how unfair that is gave me the sads. But I was quickly put on the road to recovery when they made it to Chicago and had some quality time.
Along with a much needed conversation about their future which gave me some squishy marshmallow feels even though I knew they were still together from a different series; it was still nice to find out how they got there.
If you're a fan of The Ivey Years this collection is a must read. I can't wait for one or more of them to show up in another series so I can check in on them.
Or if you're a KU member FREE! (sort of)
Blonde Date - 3.5 ⭐️
I never read this before. I'm not sure why but I just never pulled the triggered on this one. I think it was because I thought the Katies were both vapid twits but K1 has recently been through an eye opening experience with a douchey frat boy that's given her a little depth.
Andy is 16 different kinds of cute though with his self-deprecating, string bean-y self. All of his chapters during the sexy times deserve their own stars. #priceless
Cute and fluffy is SB's bread and butter. However, as cute as this is, I can see the improvement in SB's writes from whenever she originally penned this to now.
Studly Period - 3.5 ⭐️
I read this as a WIP Studly Period. I *still* wish it were longer. And Pepe can *still* get directly into my pocket, please.
Yesterday - 4.25 ⭐️
Graham and Rikker were my favorite characters in The Ivy Years series and I love SB for giving us updates on them periodically.
This takes place only a few months after the end of The Understatement of the Year. They're back in their old stomping ground of Michigan for a visit. Naturally there's family drama because Rikker's mom is a...
Rikker's dad surprised me though and my heart goes out to him. He's in a helluva pickle. Thankfully Graham's parents are straight gold.
I think what keeps me saddling up to the SB trough to glut myself is her ability to bring the feels. Sometimes she can gut me with just a handful of words:
"John Rikker is a hell of a player. He's also my boyfriend."
Another coming-out moment survived.
Just that simple reminder of how stressful the reality of having to repeatedly come out is and how unfair that is gave me the sads. But I was quickly put on the road to recovery when they made it to Chicago and had some quality time.
Along with a much needed conversation about their future which gave me some squishy marshmallow feels even though I knew they were still together from a different series; it was still nice to find out how they got there.
If you're a fan of The Ivey Years this collection is a must read. I can't wait for one or more of them to show up in another series so I can check in on them.
October 25, 2023
Graham and Rikker are back!!!!!
I got two words for you: Graham and Rikker. Did I need to say more??? Extra Credit is a compilation of Ivy Years novellas. Two of them have been available before, Blonde Date and Studly Period. And the third one is the one I’ve been waiting for and wanting for years. More Graham and Rikker from one of my all time favorite books The Understatement of the Year. Needless to say, I loved everything about it, this is one of my favorite couples ever and this new sneak peek into their lives did not disappoint one bit. Definitely the most amazing surprise by Sarina. Absolutely recommend!!!!
I got two words for you: Graham and Rikker. Did I need to say more??? Extra Credit is a compilation of Ivy Years novellas. Two of them have been available before, Blonde Date and Studly Period. And the third one is the one I’ve been waiting for and wanting for years. More Graham and Rikker from one of my all time favorite books The Understatement of the Year. Needless to say, I loved everything about it, this is one of my favorite couples ever and this new sneak peek into their lives did not disappoint one bit. Definitely the most amazing surprise by Sarina. Absolutely recommend!!!!
Want to read
March 18, 2019Did you see Sarina Bowen's surprise release?
Extra Credit contains 3 Ivy Years Novellas. And the whole series is free in KU!
March 27, 2019
All the stars for the Graham & Rikker story. The other two stories are m/f, and I won't be reading them.
Damn, it's good to see these guys again. When The Understatement of the Year ended (and it ended as if the author's computer had crashed, losing the final chapter of the book in the process, and she'd just said, "Ah, the hell with it" and walked away, leaving the story without a proper ending), I was desperate for more. And so I bought and read the subsequent books in the Ivy Years series, even though they were m/f, even though one of them was about the loathsome Bella, just in the hope of getting glimpses of G&R and seeing how they were doing. Yes, I read two contemporary m/f romance novels -- a fate less appealing to me than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick -- for the sake of a few brief on-page appearances by these guys.
I regret nothing.
Here, in the novella Yesterday, set during the Christmas break after TUOTY, Rikker is going "home" to visit his homophobic Christian parents for the first time in almost 7 years. Did I hear someone say "homophobic Christian parents"? You know, I thought I was done, forever, with reading stories about assholes like that. I'd sworn off them. Eye, sharp stick, etc. Only for you, Johnny Rikker, would I subject myself to that again.
Again, I regret nothing.
Simply put, this story made me happy. Michael Graham and John Rikker are one of my all-time favorite couples, and I felt damned lucky to be able to read more of their story. Now I want to reread TUOTY yet again -- I don't know, maybe this is going to be an annual reread tradition, and instead of fighting the urge I should just roll with it.
BTW, I read this on KU and then bought a copy to keep. Did I mention that the story made me happy? So. Damned. Happy. Everyone else out there who loves these guys needs to read this too.
Damn, it's good to see these guys again. When The Understatement of the Year ended (and it ended as if the author's computer had crashed, losing the final chapter of the book in the process, and she'd just said, "Ah, the hell with it" and walked away, leaving the story without a proper ending), I was desperate for more. And so I bought and read the subsequent books in the Ivy Years series, even though they were m/f, even though one of them was about the loathsome Bella, just in the hope of getting glimpses of G&R and seeing how they were doing. Yes, I read two contemporary m/f romance novels -- a fate less appealing to me than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick -- for the sake of a few brief on-page appearances by these guys.
I regret nothing.
Here, in the novella Yesterday, set during the Christmas break after TUOTY, Rikker is going "home" to visit his homophobic Christian parents for the first time in almost 7 years. Did I hear someone say "homophobic Christian parents"? You know, I thought I was done, forever, with reading stories about assholes like that. I'd sworn off them. Eye, sharp stick, etc. Only for you, Johnny Rikker, would I subject myself to that again.
Again, I regret nothing.
Simply put, this story made me happy. Michael Graham and John Rikker are one of my all-time favorite couples, and I felt damned lucky to be able to read more of their story. Now I want to reread TUOTY yet again -- I don't know, maybe this is going to be an annual reread tradition, and instead of fighting the urge I should just roll with it.
BTW, I read this on KU and then bought a copy to keep. Did I mention that the story made me happy? So. Damned. Happy. Everyone else out there who loves these guys needs to read this too.
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December 2, 2022
MM Romance
Follow Up Novella
4 Stars ⭐️
I only read Graham and Rikker’s novella and besides the weird as sex scenes, it was really good. I loved how much Graham had grown and how he was even coming out to people in public! YaY! Hated Rikker’s mom but loved his dad.
The funny thing is I hated the original book but I loved this. 🤣 I’m at a loss for words…
Follow Up Novella
4 Stars ⭐️
I only read Graham and Rikker’s novella and besides the weird as sex scenes, it was really good. I loved how much Graham had grown and how he was even coming out to people in public! YaY! Hated Rikker’s mom but loved his dad.
The funny thing is I hated the original book but I loved this. 🤣 I’m at a loss for words…
October 16, 2023
This is a compilation of novellas from The Ivy Years series:
Blonde Date - Katie Vickery just broke up with her jock boyfriend and needs a date to her sorority party. Her roommate sets her up with Andy Baschnagal, a guy who is in her Art History class that she never noticed before. Andy has had a crush on Katie since day one. Now is his chance to show her that he is the guy she needs in her life.
I enjoyed this story, but the short format didn't do this story any favors. (3.5 Stars)
Studly Period - College student Pepe Gerault needs help with is writing class since English is not his first language. He asks Tutor Josephine Allister to help him with his essays. Josie is tongue-tied around the handsome jock. Pepe is charmed by her and keeps finding reasons to ask for her help.
Cute story, but I didn't like the big misunderstanding in the middle of the story. (3.5 Stars)
Eight years ago, teenager John Rikker was beaten by a group of bigots who discovered he was gay. As soon as he got out of the hospital, his parents shipped him off to live with his grandmother in another state. He hasn't been home since. Now his father wants him to come home for a visit at Christmas. Rikker knows that they do not accept the fact that he is gay, nor do they want to meet his boyfriend, Graham.
This was my favorite novella in this book; probably because it was a continuation of one of the best books in the series. I felt bad for Rikker who just wants to be accepted by his family. I liked how Graham's family stepped in to help him out. (4.5 Stars)
Blonde Date - Katie Vickery just broke up with her jock boyfriend and needs a date to her sorority party. Her roommate sets her up with Andy Baschnagal, a guy who is in her Art History class that she never noticed before. Andy has had a crush on Katie since day one. Now is his chance to show her that he is the guy she needs in her life.
I enjoyed this story, but the short format didn't do this story any favors. (3.5 Stars)
Studly Period - College student Pepe Gerault needs help with is writing class since English is not his first language. He asks Tutor Josephine Allister to help him with his essays. Josie is tongue-tied around the handsome jock. Pepe is charmed by her and keeps finding reasons to ask for her help.
Cute story, but I didn't like the big misunderstanding in the middle of the story. (3.5 Stars)
Eight years ago, teenager John Rikker was beaten by a group of bigots who discovered he was gay. As soon as he got out of the hospital, his parents shipped him off to live with his grandmother in another state. He hasn't been home since. Now his father wants him to come home for a visit at Christmas. Rikker knows that they do not accept the fact that he is gay, nor do they want to meet his boyfriend, Graham.
This was my favorite novella in this book; probably because it was a continuation of one of the best books in the series. I felt bad for Rikker who just wants to be accepted by his family. I liked how Graham's family stepped in to help him out. (4.5 Stars)
March 14, 2019
CALLING ALL JOHNNY RIKKER FANS. THIS IS FOR YOU!!
This book contains 3 Ivy Year novellas, but 'Yesterday' was the only one I was truly interested in...a little continuation of John Rikker and Mikey Graham's path to [hopefully] true happiness. It has to be said that by the end of this story, which is set 8 months after the events at the end of The Understatement of the Year and its rather abrupt conclusion, we're not really that much further forward but at least Rikker has something to look forward to. Has he spent time with his bigoted parents?? Yes, he has and I'll leave you to discover what happens...I will just say that I was furious and leave it at that.
I'm hoping Sarina will surprise us with another novella in the future keeping us up-to-date with these two, who are definitely one of my favourite couples.
This book contains 3 Ivy Year novellas, but 'Yesterday' was the only one I was truly interested in...a little continuation of John Rikker and Mikey Graham's path to [hopefully] true happiness. It has to be said that by the end of this story, which is set 8 months after the events at the end of The Understatement of the Year and its rather abrupt conclusion, we're not really that much further forward but at least Rikker has something to look forward to. Has he spent time with his bigoted parents?? Yes, he has and I'll leave you to discover what happens...I will just say that I was furious and leave it at that.
I'm hoping Sarina will surprise us with another novella in the future keeping us up-to-date with these two, who are definitely one of my favourite couples.
Read
March 18, 2019Did you see Sarina Bowen's surprise release?
Extra Credit contains 3 Ivy Years Novellas. And the whole series is free in KU!
Read
March 18, 2019Did you see Sarina Bowen's surprise release?
Extra Credit contains 3 Ivy Years Novellas. And the whole series is free in KU!
Read
March 18, 2019Did you see Sarina Bowen's surprise release?
Extra Credit contains 3 Ivy Years Novellas. And the whole series is free in KU!
March 10, 2019
Overall rating, 4.5 stars -- Three short novellas from arguably my favorite romance author: one previously published (Blonde Date), one previously released as a serial through the author's newsletter (Studly Period), and one brand-new one, which is a follow up to the rather abrupt ending Graham and Rikker had in The Understatement of the Year.
Each of these is a comfortable and sweet read that fits well with the rest of the Ivy Years series. Although it's not absolutely necessary to have read any of the earlier novels, Yesterday will make much more sense if you've first read The Understatement of the Year. Plus, its ending is much more satisfying than the one found there...not that the ending was bad, it was just abrupt. :) Most importantly though -- and I say this because I am, in general, not a big fan of novellas -- each of the stories in this anthology is exceptionally well paced because none of them endeavor to take on more than they can handle in their brief lengths. And they hit all the right notes along the way. What more can I ask for?
Each of these is a comfortable and sweet read that fits well with the rest of the Ivy Years series. Although it's not absolutely necessary to have read any of the earlier novels, Yesterday will make much more sense if you've first read The Understatement of the Year. Plus, its ending is much more satisfying than the one found there...not that the ending was bad, it was just abrupt. :) Most importantly though -- and I say this because I am, in general, not a big fan of novellas -- each of the stories in this anthology is exceptionally well paced because none of them endeavor to take on more than they can handle in their brief lengths. And they hit all the right notes along the way. What more can I ask for?
March 12, 2019
ohhhhhh me love this!
Understatement of the Year very quickly became my go to read. Not sure why it worked my emotions so well but it did. It was hard to finish the series and then only catch snippets of them in other books. Yes, if it wasn't apparent.... I bought this to find out how Rikker and Graham end up. Yes, I had a few snot moments (totally passed it off as allergies to my coworker because I don't want him to think I am a basket case or at least more than he already does) BUT I AM TOTALLY FANGIRLING RIGHT NOW!
Yes, Studly Period is great. I can totally hear Pepe's French accent in my head while reading it.
Understatement of the Year very quickly became my go to read. Not sure why it worked my emotions so well but it did. It was hard to finish the series and then only catch snippets of them in other books. Yes, if it wasn't apparent.... I bought this to find out how Rikker and Graham end up. Yes, I had a few snot moments (totally passed it off as allergies to my coworker because I don't want him to think I am a basket case or at least more than he already does) BUT I AM TOTALLY FANGIRLING RIGHT NOW!
Yes, Studly Period is great. I can totally hear Pepe's French accent in my head while reading it.
May 25, 2019
Review to come!
Read
March 19, 2019Did you see Sarina Bowen's surprise release?
Extra Credit contains 3 Ivy Years Novellas. And the whole series is free in KU!
March 17, 2019
4.5 stars
The two m/f novellas were sweet and fun but the highlight was checking in again with Rikker and Graham!
I wish the author would write more Ivy Years and more m/m. I find her adult m/f contemporaries don't work as well for me.
The two m/f novellas were sweet and fun but the highlight was checking in again with Rikker and Graham!
I wish the author would write more Ivy Years and more m/m. I find her adult m/f contemporaries don't work as well for me.
August 26, 2021
My rating excludes the story from Blonde Date & Studly Period as I have not read those two stories.
March 11, 2019
4.5 stars
I loved getting sucked back into the Ivy Years world. Sarina Bowen does such a great job making you fall in love with her characters that have flaws and insecurities, but are so endearing.
This consists of three novellas Blonde Date(That I read during my first Ivy Years binge read), Studly Period (a serial I never caught up on), and Yesterday (a new extended epilogue for The Understatement of the Year).
I have to say that getting more with Graham and Rikker in Yesterday made me ridiculously happy! Their original book did not give us a look into their future, and this one allows us to see them tackling more issues and their continued healing. I felt like it gave me more closure with the characters and made me love them even more.
Studly Period is the sweet story of Pepe and Josephine...the big, burly, teddy bear-like French Canadian who is not good with words, and his quiet, shy, nerdy tutor who can write but lacks social skills. I loved their friends-to-more story about taking risks and finding ways to communicate effectively.
Blonde Date is a cute look into a blind, first date of the super popular girl, Katie, and more awkward, basketball player, Andrew. Sometimes it is nice to have a hero that is just a good guy without all the issues and pretenses. And I love stories of opposites finding common ground.
I thoroughly enjoyed this box set of novellas that reminded just how much I love this author's work and this world she has created.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter
I loved getting sucked back into the Ivy Years world. Sarina Bowen does such a great job making you fall in love with her characters that have flaws and insecurities, but are so endearing.
This consists of three novellas Blonde Date(That I read during my first Ivy Years binge read), Studly Period (a serial I never caught up on), and Yesterday (a new extended epilogue for The Understatement of the Year).
I have to say that getting more with Graham and Rikker in Yesterday made me ridiculously happy! Their original book did not give us a look into their future, and this one allows us to see them tackling more issues and their continued healing. I felt like it gave me more closure with the characters and made me love them even more.
Studly Period is the sweet story of Pepe and Josephine...the big, burly, teddy bear-like French Canadian who is not good with words, and his quiet, shy, nerdy tutor who can write but lacks social skills. I loved their friends-to-more story about taking risks and finding ways to communicate effectively.
Blonde Date is a cute look into a blind, first date of the super popular girl, Katie, and more awkward, basketball player, Andrew. Sometimes it is nice to have a hero that is just a good guy without all the issues and pretenses. And I love stories of opposites finding common ground.
I thoroughly enjoyed this box set of novellas that reminded just how much I love this author's work and this world she has created.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter
Read
March 19, 2019Did you see Sarina Bowen's surprise release?
Extra Credit contains 3 Ivy Years Novellas. And the whole series is free in KU!
March 11, 2019
My rating only applies to the novella Yesterday.
Sarina really came through and gave Rikker and Graham the ending they deserved. 👏🏽😭
Sarina really came through and gave Rikker and Graham the ending they deserved. 👏🏽😭
March 22, 2019
This author writes my favourite kind of stories. These 3 novellas are just perfection. Character driven. Witty. Funny. Emotional and oh so delightful. I would read anything she wrote & know I would love it! I finished this with a giddy smile on my face
March 16, 2019
This book is a compilation of 3 novellas from the Ivy Years series. The 1st has been available on it's own for a while now, but the 2nd was published for short period of time as a serial for Sarina's website subscribers. The 3rd is a total new addition I enjoyed delving into today :)
If you haven't read the Ivy Years series, seriously, what are you waiting for?! You can sample it through this one but only through the first two as they are totally stand alone (containing characters we've met but were only side characters at best), the 3rd one I suggest you read only after "The Understatement of the year" because it contains a continuation for their story (FYI, it's M/M, unlike the first two and the rest of the series which is M/F).
Blonde Date ★★★★★ [Originally Read on 27 September 2014]
This is a really sweet novella of "Blonde Katie" - Katie Vickery - we met in the previous book (one of Scarlet's roommates) and Andy - Andrew Baschnagel- Bridger's neighbor. We even finished the previous book hearing the both of them enjoying each other's company from across the wall ;) This short novella is of their first date together.
In the beginning of the previous novel both "Katies" (Blonde and Ponytail) sounded really shallow and uninteresting yet as the book developed and as Scarlet opened up a little we got to see a bit more to the two of them and when Blonde Katie was looking for a date to a sorority thing it was only natural that Scarlet offer her to take Andy, maybe not a Hockey player - a Basketball player - meaning she could hang in his dorm room while Bridger's sister is sound asleep on his room..
That's was the background..
when we start this novella we learn that there was more than a bad breakup in Katie's past, something bad happened and she feels that going to that sorority event would be a bad idea because it means she is going to see Dash - her ex, and be ridiculed by him and the guys AGAIN. Even with a date, she is scared to step over the threshold.
Andy is the "Sweet Guy" the one who could be a girl's best friend maybe but not her date. He is REALLY excited about going out with Katie, he has been thinking about her non-stop since he first saw her in the class they share and his luck is looking bright with Scarlet giving Katie his number.
With the sweet Andy on Katie's side her luck turns. As they enjoy a good time together she decided to tell him what happened with Dash and he finds a way for her to distract herself from the way she feels (actually quite a cool game!). When they finally go home, she doesn't feel like the loser she felt, she feels confident, enough to lure him to have a little fun with her. Andy is NOT her usual attraction, in so many things but after their evening together she realized she haven't been looking for the right thing..
The Epilogue was a sweet surprise. It wasn't what I would have expected and it only helped making this one a 5 star review, it gave us a little insight into something that really made the difference for me, and for the story. While I was a bit annoyed with Andy's insecurity, I guess it made sense and it didn't last that long ;)
Studly Period ★★★★★ [Originally Read on 22 May 2018]
This was the SWEETEST novella EVER. I LOVED IT! Granted, I had to wait till all the chpaters were out because waiting for a mere chapter each week just wasn't for me but actually reading it - ALL of it - was literally a doctor's subscription to my mental and physical health.
Josephine Allister is a sweet and nerdy introvert. Working at the tutoring center is helping her a little to interact with people she doesn't know but she is still quite closed off. When Pepe Gerault comes into her view she have a difficulty with more than her tongue. The French-Canadian Hockey player is just too much. He is fun and easy going and a total opposite of her. Yet through the essays he writes and she corrects they form an unlikely and endearing friendship.
The whole novella is written from Josephine's POV and it was perfect this way. Yeah I would have loved to know what Pepe was thinking at times, but I think it made better sense this way, seeing how Pepe affected her and how she fell for him little by little and he was always THERE and yet never demanding or asking her for more than she was willing to give.
Though this is quite a short novella it did give us a whole story as the progress of story took a few months. I also quite appreciated that it wasn't at all about sex (even though it's mentioned she is a virgin in the synopsis), it was actually "fade-to-black". It was about THEM 100% of the time. About friendship and trust, expressing what you feel, taking a chance.
Yesterday ★★★★★ [Read on 16 March 2019]
It's been a while since I've read "The Understatement of the Year", where we've met and fell in love with Michael Graham and John Rikker (4 and half years to be exact). It's been too long really. I wish I've read or listened to this one before I read their short addition as I've forgot too many details about these two amazing guys.
While Graham was closeted while he and Rikker grew up, once he came out when he was in college his family accepted him no question asked, for Rikker who got badly beaten after been seen kissing a guy it wasn't a real choice and unlike Graham's family, his sent him off to his grandmother and almost forgot all about him and the shame he brought to their (religious) family.
A lot have happened in the past 7 years but Rikker is still reluctant to return home upon his father's request. But knowing Graham will be with him family - close by - makes the decision a bit more bearable yet he still isn't sure if he's going to survive this meeting.
It was bitter sweet all together. I was expected far worse I guess but I think I can see a bit of a brighter future even if not from both parents, also Rikker and Graham while madly in love have issues of their own to solve in the near future and I wonder if it means we'll get yet ANOTHER installment about them. Pretty please!
Really enjoyed this one. Rikker and Graham are THE sweetest together. It was nice seeing how Graham was wearing his own skin more comfortably. Accepting who he is, accepting his love for his partner and being more in-tuned in general. Rikker was truly brave coming back home. I wish he was actually welcomed for who he is, but alas, there WAS a bit of progress there and mostly though sad it was nice seeing him making the decisions that were right for HIM and not being pushed to submit to his parents vision of who he's "suppose" to be.
More Reviews HERE
If you haven't read the Ivy Years series, seriously, what are you waiting for?! You can sample it through this one but only through the first two as they are totally stand alone (containing characters we've met but were only side characters at best), the 3rd one I suggest you read only after "The Understatement of the year" because it contains a continuation for their story (FYI, it's M/M, unlike the first two and the rest of the series which is M/F).
Blonde Date ★★★★★ [Originally Read on 27 September 2014]
This is a really sweet novella of "Blonde Katie" - Katie Vickery - we met in the previous book (one of Scarlet's roommates) and Andy - Andrew Baschnagel- Bridger's neighbor. We even finished the previous book hearing the both of them enjoying each other's company from across the wall ;) This short novella is of their first date together.
In the beginning of the previous novel both "Katies" (Blonde and Ponytail) sounded really shallow and uninteresting yet as the book developed and as Scarlet opened up a little we got to see a bit more to the two of them and when Blonde Katie was looking for a date to a sorority thing it was only natural that Scarlet offer her to take Andy, maybe not a Hockey player - a Basketball player - meaning she could hang in his dorm room while Bridger's sister is sound asleep on his room..
That's was the background..
when we start this novella we learn that there was more than a bad breakup in Katie's past, something bad happened and she feels that going to that sorority event would be a bad idea because it means she is going to see Dash - her ex, and be ridiculed by him and the guys AGAIN. Even with a date, she is scared to step over the threshold.
Andy is the "Sweet Guy" the one who could be a girl's best friend maybe but not her date. He is REALLY excited about going out with Katie, he has been thinking about her non-stop since he first saw her in the class they share and his luck is looking bright with Scarlet giving Katie his number.
With the sweet Andy on Katie's side her luck turns. As they enjoy a good time together she decided to tell him what happened with Dash and he finds a way for her to distract herself from the way she feels (actually quite a cool game!). When they finally go home, she doesn't feel like the loser she felt, she feels confident, enough to lure him to have a little fun with her. Andy is NOT her usual attraction, in so many things but after their evening together she realized she haven't been looking for the right thing..
The Epilogue was a sweet surprise. It wasn't what I would have expected and it only helped making this one a 5 star review, it gave us a little insight into something that really made the difference for me, and for the story. While I was a bit annoyed with Andy's insecurity, I guess it made sense and it didn't last that long ;)
Studly Period ★★★★★ [Originally Read on 22 May 2018]
This was the SWEETEST novella EVER. I LOVED IT! Granted, I had to wait till all the chpaters were out because waiting for a mere chapter each week just wasn't for me but actually reading it - ALL of it - was literally a doctor's subscription to my mental and physical health.
Josephine Allister is a sweet and nerdy introvert. Working at the tutoring center is helping her a little to interact with people she doesn't know but she is still quite closed off. When Pepe Gerault comes into her view she have a difficulty with more than her tongue. The French-Canadian Hockey player is just too much. He is fun and easy going and a total opposite of her. Yet through the essays he writes and she corrects they form an unlikely and endearing friendship.
The whole novella is written from Josephine's POV and it was perfect this way. Yeah I would have loved to know what Pepe was thinking at times, but I think it made better sense this way, seeing how Pepe affected her and how she fell for him little by little and he was always THERE and yet never demanding or asking her for more than she was willing to give.
Though this is quite a short novella it did give us a whole story as the progress of story took a few months. I also quite appreciated that it wasn't at all about sex (even though it's mentioned she is a virgin in the synopsis), it was actually "fade-to-black". It was about THEM 100% of the time. About friendship and trust, expressing what you feel, taking a chance.
Yesterday ★★★★★ [Read on 16 March 2019]
It's been a while since I've read "The Understatement of the Year", where we've met and fell in love with Michael Graham and John Rikker (4 and half years to be exact). It's been too long really. I wish I've read or listened to this one before I read their short addition as I've forgot too many details about these two amazing guys.
While Graham was closeted while he and Rikker grew up, once he came out when he was in college his family accepted him no question asked, for Rikker who got badly beaten after been seen kissing a guy it wasn't a real choice and unlike Graham's family, his sent him off to his grandmother and almost forgot all about him and the shame he brought to their (religious) family.
A lot have happened in the past 7 years but Rikker is still reluctant to return home upon his father's request. But knowing Graham will be with him family - close by - makes the decision a bit more bearable yet he still isn't sure if he's going to survive this meeting.
It was bitter sweet all together. I was expected far worse I guess but I think I can see a bit of a brighter future even if not from both parents, also Rikker and Graham while madly in love have issues of their own to solve in the near future and I wonder if it means we'll get yet ANOTHER installment about them. Pretty please!
Really enjoyed this one. Rikker and Graham are THE sweetest together. It was nice seeing how Graham was wearing his own skin more comfortably. Accepting who he is, accepting his love for his partner and being more in-tuned in general. Rikker was truly brave coming back home. I wish he was actually welcomed for who he is, but alas, there WAS a bit of progress there and mostly though sad it was nice seeing him making the decisions that were right for HIM and not being pushed to submit to his parents vision of who he's "suppose" to be.
More Reviews HERE
April 21, 2019
Blond Date - 3 stars
I've been waiting to read Andy's story since meeting him as Bridger's neighbor. He was seriously so cute. This was super fun, but the whole story was just a half a day basically so there wasn't too much going on. Still really enjoyable. I'll just have to create a more satisfying HEA for Andy and Katie in my head :)
Studly Period - 4.5 stars
Pepe and Josie were so cute and I really loved their story. It felt satisfying even for a novella, and I appreciate that. But, as is the theme with THIS WHOLE SERIES, I wish we got to see a little further into their future, sigh. But it was overall great.
Yesterday - 3.5 stars
Graham and Rikker are still adorable, and this had a lot of emotion packed into a short little novella. However, I was not satisfied with their conversions about the future/level of commitment to one another, and I honestly did not love the place this novella left them at. It was cute, and I adore this couple so it was still good , but not all of what I would have hoped for when I saw that they have an extended epilogue of sorts.
I'm going to miss this series and all these characters! It was really fun to binge, and such a satisfying college new adult series. I seriously adore Sarina Bowen's characters and stories!
I've been waiting to read Andy's story since meeting him as Bridger's neighbor. He was seriously so cute. This was super fun, but the whole story was just a half a day basically so there wasn't too much going on. Still really enjoyable. I'll just have to create a more satisfying HEA for Andy and Katie in my head :)
Studly Period - 4.5 stars
Pepe and Josie were so cute and I really loved their story. It felt satisfying even for a novella, and I appreciate that. But, as is the theme with THIS WHOLE SERIES, I wish we got to see a little further into their future, sigh. But it was overall great.
Yesterday - 3.5 stars
Graham and Rikker are still adorable, and this had a lot of emotion packed into a short little novella. However, I was not satisfied with their conversions about the future/level of commitment to one another, and I honestly did not love the place this novella left them at. It was cute, and I adore this couple so it was still good , but not all of what I would have hoped for when I saw that they have an extended epilogue of sorts.
I'm going to miss this series and all these characters! It was really fun to binge, and such a satisfying college new adult series. I seriously adore Sarina Bowen's characters and stories!
March 12, 2019
This is a collection of three novellas set in Bowen’s Ivy League universe. I’ve already reviewed Studly Period, so this rating is only for the other two.
Blonde Date - the story of hot, popular freshman and sorority girl Katie and shy but also hot basketball player junior, Andy. This was such a gentle bit of fluff, not much substance but still enjoyable. And the epilogue might be one of the most satisfying things I’ve read.
Yesterday - a future take of The Understatement of the Year, revisiting Rikker and Graham was an utter delight. I loved this glimpse into their future. Like the original, some things in their lives remained messy, definitely a more realistic pairing. But seeing the growth in their relationship, and in Graham’s self-awareness was just wonderful. A needed follow up for sure.
Blonde Date - the story of hot, popular freshman and sorority girl Katie and shy but also hot basketball player junior, Andy. This was such a gentle bit of fluff, not much substance but still enjoyable. And the epilogue might be one of the most satisfying things I’ve read.
Yesterday - a future take of The Understatement of the Year, revisiting Rikker and Graham was an utter delight. I loved this glimpse into their future. Like the original, some things in their lives remained messy, definitely a more realistic pairing. But seeing the growth in their relationship, and in Graham’s self-awareness was just wonderful. A needed follow up for sure.
July 2, 2019
I'm a newbie to this series, after only having started to read it last week. After reading The Understatement of the Year, I jumped ahead to read Extra Credit as I wanted more Rikker and Graham. I wish there was another book in the series just for these guys :)
Studly Period - I don't know how many times I read this title before I clicked that it was "Studly" and not "Study" Period. Pepe and Josie were so sweet, and because I haven;t read the last 2 books in the series yet I'm not sure if they pop up some more - I am hoping we see more of them together.
Blonde Date - My new favourite guy = ANDY. He's so sweet and adorable, and just what a girl needed after being embarrassed by a douche ex. Loved this short, sweet novella.
Studly Period - I don't know how many times I read this title before I clicked that it was "Studly" and not "Study" Period. Pepe and Josie were so sweet, and because I haven;t read the last 2 books in the series yet I'm not sure if they pop up some more - I am hoping we see more of them together.
Blonde Date - My new favourite guy = ANDY. He's so sweet and adorable, and just what a girl needed after being embarrassed by a douche ex. Loved this short, sweet novella.
March 26, 2019
“Everything is wow”
The Understatement of the Year was my first MM book, and I was thrilled to get a bit more of Graham and Rikker. I already felt like they’d have a strong future at the end of that book, and this one just cements it as they handle obstacles and reaffirm their love and commitment.
This rating is based only on their story, as I didn’t read the other two shorts.
The Understatement of the Year was my first MM book, and I was thrilled to get a bit more of Graham and Rikker. I already felt like they’d have a strong future at the end of that book, and this one just cements it as they handle obstacles and reaffirm their love and commitment.
This rating is based only on their story, as I didn’t read the other two shorts.
November 10, 2022
Rikker and Graham are adorable and all but I was here for Pepe, and that hulking French Canadian did not fail me!
I love mallowy, sunshine, Sasquatch heroes, they are my downfall.
He wrote her notes 😭
I love mallowy, sunshine, Sasquatch heroes, they are my downfall.
He wrote her notes 😭
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