A Hockey Romance (The Ivy Years Book 2) - The Year We Hid Away

Fabulous. Truly fabulous and I couldn't put it down. Sarina Bowen has become one of my one click addictions and I'd read anything she writes. A fabulous addition to already full NA contemporary shelves, this one truly holds its own.

It's so hard to write reviews without spoilers. But I will say this, if you read Sarina Bowen's first book in this Ivy Years series and loved it, you will most definitely love Bridger's story. The way he takes care of his little sister... ovaries go BOOM!

This series is full of awesome developed characters. I don't want to give away things about this book. The only thing I can say is read this series. These books are must reads and Sarina Bowen has a fan for life with me!

I loved learning more about Bridger in this book. His story was every bit as complex and engrossing as the main characters in the first book in the series. I think I have a new favorite author. I can't wait to read more of her books.

I don't usually analyze the writing, particularly if the book is very cngaging and I'm totally into it. I loved the integrity of the characters and their relation to each other. This series has been very satisfying.

The series is becoming one of my favorite loved the first book and was so happy that this book had the same formula but was a totally different story everything about this had me excited to get into my car and keep listening to this.

I really love the narrators on this one had me engaged the whole time and loved how they read the story.

This one was a book of having the bad luck of being born into a terrible family. Bridger was a reformed partier and became an adult over night. In the first book he was so different so when this book started i was not sure where it was going to go. Now we got Bridger 2.0 you couldn’t help but love him and what he goes through for Lucy is amazing loved thier relationship and i loved Lucy’s character.

I don’t know Scarlett went through what she did and how she went through life with a father like she had but she was strong and made a life for herself which i found admirable. I also loved this character aswell she was something special.

This book had it all, drama, twists i didn’t see coming and two people with bad luck help each other through the hard times.

I really loved this book and loving this series can’t wait to get into the other books. Sarina Bowen is one author you can’t pass.

Right after I finished the first book in this series The Year We Fell Down (The Ivy Years, #1) by Sarina Bowen, I DIVED into this one because if the first one is great then the rest gotta follow right? I didn't even read who the book was about and in fact when I read the first few pages I didn't even know if the books will be connected at all. But then I saw Bridger's name and I'm like "oh this boy." I knew he had storm in his life from the first book but there's one thing to read about storm from another person's POV and then there is storm from the person-who's-going-through-it's POV.

This book surprised me with how delicately it handled the craziness in both the protagonists' life. Like Scarlet had it so hard with the parents and the so-called bodyguard. And then you see the crap Bridge's been dealing with and you just want to hug these people.

This is the first time I didn't mind a doing-this-for-your-own-good break between the protagonists. Because it made sense, the plot made sense and their actions made sense. And I loved how the jig was up as soon as Bridger needed her. There is drama in the story, yes but you NEED the drama because sometimes such is life. Sometimes life is a soap opera and you just gotta roll with it.

Also, how good a big brother/parental figure is Bridger? OMG, I love that guy! I especially loved that the author truly made this a stand alone. You in no case need to read the previous book because the characters are hardly recurring and even when they do, you don't need their stories to see them as secondary characters.

Wonderful, well-deserved 5.0 rating for this book.

All my love,
sri

My love for Diana Peterfreund's Secret Society Girl novels led me to this book. The thing is, those are my kind of New Adult novels. And I think I've been sort of quietly looking for more in that vein ever since. And then a couple of months ago I ran across Diana enthusiastically recommending a new series for fans of the SSG books. It's called the Ivy Years series and it is written by Sarina Bowen. Needless to say, I investigated further. When I found out the books were also sports-related, I said to the internet, Say no more, internet. You have my attention. And that night I jumped in and started the first book—The Year We Fell Down (which, by the way, such a great title)—and I thoroughly enjoyed Bowen's easy style, down to Earth characters (well, most of time, I'm looking at you Hartley), and the fabulous college setting. So when the second book came out, I was all set to dive right back into life at Harkness, particularly when I heard it featured Bridger—a character from the first book who I really liked but who I had more than few concerns about.

Bridger McCaulley's life does not resemble what it used to be. Not that it's ever been easy, but there was a period there where he worried . . . less . . . and partied more. And he played hockey like nobody's business. Those days are gone now that he's wholly responsible for his little sister. And it doesn't help matters that it's all on the down low since child protective services would have a heyday if they knew a college hockey star was hiding a little girl away in his dorm room. Scarlet Crowley's life also altered suddenly and irrevocably and for the worse. She's come to Harkness to escape as many of her problems as possible, starting by enrolling under a different name in order to stave off as much of the media as possible. When the truth about her father's charity was made public, the life she led became impossible and she hopes distance from her parents and her father's crimes will allow her to build her own life. When the two meet, sparks fly, but they agree not to take things any further than study dates in the cafeteria. Bridger has no time to speak of and a pack of responsibilities weighing him down to the ground. Scarlet fears discovery and the look on Bridger's face were he ever to find out the kind of family she comes from. But it proves to be difficult for each of them to give up that regular human contact again. With someone who might just understand.

As I said, I enjoyed (my impatience with Hartley aside) most everything about the first book in the series. But I loved everything about The Year We Hid Away. How lovely a thing it is when you get to know a previously secondary character better only to find out they were exactly who you were hoping they would be all along. Getting to know Bridger was just such an experience. There was so much more to him than his escapades the year before led you to believe, and every one of those added layers made him an infinitely sympathetic character. He is crazy strong, is Bridger. And determined to go it alone, if just to adequately protect his little sister Lucy from additional disappointment and pain. He rightly judges she has suffered enough. But then so has he. And it takes Scarlet entering his tightly closed off life to see that and know how to help. It was so interesting watching these two hockey players interact while on enforced hiatuses from the sport they love. In fact, one of my favorite aspects of this story is the equal treatment the two protagonists get. Their stories, their histories, they are equally valued and play appropriately weighty roles in their present. They are not just back stories, but fleshed out narratives explaining the way they are, the challenges they live with. And they fold so seamlessly into the force bringing and holding them together. An early encounter snippet:

***

"You never say very much about Miami Beach," Bridger said as we lingered over our coffee. "Or your family."

I didn't bother to hide my flinch. "Miami Beach is the best. My family . . . not so much. I don't really talk about them. It isn't a nice story." The truth was, I didn't want to lie any more than necessary to those deep green eyes.

Bridger's face flashed with sympathy. "Okay. It's exactly the same for me, but I didn't expect that. Because you look like someone from a family with a nice story."

"And you don't?" I countered.

He put one hand on his own cheek and covered mine with his other. "You make a good point. Maybe there's no look. I should probably stop thinking that everyone else in this room has it easier than me."

I turned my head, and together we both scanned the laughing, eating, bustle that was the student center at noon. It sure looked happy out there. For just a moment, I was a goalie again, analyzing the play, scouting for trouble.

"Nah," I said finally, turning back to Bridger. "I still think most of them have it pretty good."

Bridger grinned. "This is the cynical table," he said, tapping his fingertip on the wood grain.

"Party of two," I agreed.

***

Their Tuesday and Thursday lunch/study dates never failed to bring a smile to my face. And the natural and seemingly inevitable way they grew into a relationship with a healthy amount of depth kept the smile upon my face. They are able to take a breather of sorts and step away from being self-conscious when they're together. It feels like a reprieve, doled out in careful doses. No wonder they look to increase those doses. I also appreciated the way Bowen handles the "finding out" of the respective pasts. It was a recipe for maturity while still paying tribute to their actual ages and the extent of their life experiences. As is the case with the best romances, I am so very glad they found each other. As for myself, I am so very happy to have found a fresh voice in the new adult genre. Recommended for fans of Samantha Young's Down London Road and, of course, Secret Society Girl.

"I need you, Scarlet. Even when things are really ugly. Especially then."
***

Shannon Ellison is running away from the year from hell. She is running towards a new and brighter future. At least to a place where no one will know of her past. And that all starts with a brand new name: Scarlet Crowley. This is what she needs and it has been a year in the making. Time to start fresh and make new friends. Friends that don't know about her past and the sins of her father. But the last thing she expected was Bridger McCaulley to shake up her world. The only thing is...can she let him in?

I will admit that I was a little apprehensive to dive into this one. The first book, THE YEAR WE FELL DOWN, absolutely stole my heart and had me giddy for days after finishing it. It was all I could think about. So, when I was asked to read this one, I accepted, but I was nervous. Nervous that the book wouldn't live up to the first one. But as I fell into the story, I was happy with the way it was going and even found the darker aspect of it a bit intriguing. You, along with Scarlet want to know if her father really is guilty of everything he is accused of. And if he is, Lord help him. Because that means he is one sick freak. So yeah, this book was just as good. Maybe not better, only because I have this thing for Hartley and Corey and all that they went through. That book was a first for me to read, and it definitely stuck with me. But I do love this one a lot.

And don't fret. Hartley and Corey make a few appearances. I will also say that I worried I wouldn't have that connection with Scarlet like I did with Corey. But not far into the book, that connection started forming. So that fear faded away and a relationship blossomed.

Bridger's secret is a bit more tamer. But it is still something serious. And at times I just wanted to help him through it all. It is all too much for a young man to take on. But he was amazing and I loved him even more for it. He is a lot different than the Bridger we met in book one. He has so much baggage now that he must carry. But I think people will really enjoy him in this one.

THE YEAR WE HID AWAY IS another awe-inspiring book from a uber talented author. I am so terribly glad I happened upon her. I will always be waiting (im)patiently for her next book. If you are looking for a fun, sexy, sweet read and haven't read book one, I highly recommend it. If you have read book one, and are in need of something a little more deeper...this one is for you. Both two totally different stories...so there is no fear of feeling like you are reading the same book twice.

THE YEAR WE HID AWAY absolutely deserves 5 Amazing Stars!

The Year We Hid Away provides the second installment to the Ivy Years Series focusing on Hartley’s friend Bridger and a new character Scarlet. This story gives us another new adult title by Ms. Bowen that lends itself to being completely fresh and unique yet following new adult structure perfectly. The crafting of this plot weaves in two completely different back stories for Bridger and Scarlet – each hiding something major in their lives. Again, just as in the first book, I’ve yet to read a plot base like this and again Ms. Bowen flawlessly made me a believer in her work. The writing is so precise and clean that we never get caught up in meaningless points.

Whereas the heroine was the shining star in book one, the hero is my shining star in book two. If you’ve read book one you undoubtedly have an idea about Bridger in your mind. I had a couple of ideas. Well he blows expectations out of the water. He’s strong, solid, confident, vulnerable, loyal, and mature with so much love to give it surrounds him like an aura. I refuse to give anything away about the plot but you will fall in love with Bridger.

Scarlet’s story being so unique drew me to her. The questions just her back story raised I found titillating, really thinking about the impact of her situation and the devastation it left on her life and her views of her family. Scarlet’s strength fortifies her as a great heroine. She doesn’t dwell, she doesn’t complain but she’s hidden behind a wall of fear. There were a couple points in her story that I had wished were developed a bit further but overall this is a great heroine.

Sarina Bowen writes fast moving plots with engaging characters laced with a just a bit of mystery. The love story of Bridger and Scarlet is so simple compared to the complicated lives they lead outside of each other. The difficulties bind them to each other, developing a trust you’ll envy. For young love, these two have got it together – testament to lives they know with absolute certainty they don’t want. I’m happy I’ve had the opportunity to read these new adult books. Coming off a contemporary darker romance they just slayed me, it was nice to sit down with easy, uplifting love stories.

The Ivy Years series is an amazing New Adult collection touching on topical issues as well as providing a marvelously romantic and steamy story. Sarina Bowen tags every base in "The Year We Hid Away" with tears, laughs, romance and sizzle along with a ripped from the headlines storyline. The main characters are sympathetic and incredibly likable despite both of them having huge secrets that they are hiding not only from each other but from friends and strangers alike. Both secrets are huge and could have dire repercussions if they are discovered. Again, Ms. Bowen provides the reader with a vast tapestry of secondary characters and the backdrop of Harkness University. Also even though the Hero is a hockey player he has removed himself from the action of the rink - at least for the majority of the novel. "The Year We Hid Away" is the second book in the Ivy Years series and it is a stand alone novel, although its storyline runs parallel to the storyline in "The Understatement of the Year", the third book in the series.
Pull out the tissues, you're going to need them. But Scarlet and Bridger's story is fantastic! I love the way Sarina Bowen gives her New Adult romances a slow build into the romance and the carefully orchestrated sex scenes. Ms. Bowen takes care in remembering that these main characters are not yet in their twenties and she does justice to the heroes in the respect and deference they give their inexperienced love interests - it really is exceptional. We are also gifted with a non-irritating child - HUZZAH! We are introduced to Lucy and Bridger in the first book of the series so I knew what I was getting into and even in a larger dose the young character is not overly saccharine nor "wise beyond her years" - just wonderfully portrayed. Because of the nature of "The Year We Hid Away" the circle of secondary characters is very small and there are two characters that do get their own novella "Blonde Date". All of the novels in the Ivy Years series give me a book hang-over - I hope to wake up and find myself back in college with the prospect of finding a strong handsome boy staring back at me with a smile in class. Those were the days.

To read the entire review please visit: http://bit.ly/1NJi5aV

This novel was provided by the Publisher in exchange for a honest review.

I enjoyed everything about this book, but there's really only one thing that I loved about this book and that is Bridger. (Warning: there might be some slight spoilers ahead).

Surprisingly, my love for Bridger kept growing and growing. I didn't think it was possible, but he took a little bit more of my heart almost every chapter.

Bridger is the kind of guy that should seriously be sought after (Scarlet is a freaking lucky girl, I'd kill to be her). He deeply cares about the people in his life almost unconditionally. His family comes first, then it's friends, then finally it's him. I can say with full conviction that he would give his life to the people that surround him. And if that's not admirable, I don't know what is.

His love toward his sister is as thick as a block of cheese (bad analogy but I think it gets the point across). Besides being a ginger, that's the main characteristic about him that I fell in love with. He will do anything to keep his sister safe and provide for her, even if it puts him at risk.

His admiration/love toward Scarlet is a little different (but then again you really can't compare a love toward an immediate family member to the love toward a significant other). In the beginning, for Bridger it was like a forbidden love of some sort; he can't have her so he wants her more. But that thought doesn't last for long because they become really good friends. Yes they're attracted to each other, but being friends came first. And then their relationship grew, and it didn't feel rushed nor did it feel unnecessary.

The Year We Hid Away is a really great read. The characters are intricate and their development was A+. The relationship between all the characters are all necessary, nothing seems like it shouldn't have been added. If you haven't started this series then you need to hop onto this bandwagon.

Happy sigh. This book. I really loved this one. Bridger and Scarlet were amazing together and I loved how much they supported one another through everything. That's not to say they didn't have a few ups and downs, but I am glad their relationship was relatively drama free. This series is very character driven and I adore seeing how important these friendships are to these characters. We didn't get much of Adam and Corey from the previous book, but we do see them briefly, so that was nice.

Bridger's life is very different than the one he previously lived. No more hook ups, no more partying, and unfortunately no more hockey either. He has completely reordered his priorities and I have to say I admired the hell out of him for that. His sister comes first and he takes that responsibility very seriously and selflessly. He accepts his new role as a caretaker and college student and doesn't bemoan his loss of freedom and wildness. There really is no better guy out there than Bridger. He doesn't plan on Scarlet, but she ends up being such a bright spot for him amidst so much stress. His free time is severely limited, so he doesn't feel he can offer Scarlet much in the way of a relationship.

Once Scarlet discovers what Bridger is doing though, all bets are off. There's no need to hide anymore and she understands that his life is complicated and that he can't devote all of his time to her. It was refreshing to read about a strong female who doesn't need to be the center of her boyfriend's universe. Scarlet has problems of her own anyway. While Bridger's secret may be out, she is too afraid to 'fess up to her own. She knows he doesn't need the added stress and while I get she was trying to protect him, he shared a lot with her and she should have reciprocated faster than she did. My heart ached for Scarlet and not only for what she was going through, but how she was treated because of it. She just wants to go to school and try to escape the madness that is her home life and I can't say I blame her.

Scarlet and Bridger do not have an easy time but I loved their moments together. Once everything is out on the table, the two really make an unbeatable team. They love and support one another and it was uplifting to see.

Full review and more available at: http://oneguysguidetogoodreads.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-year-we-hid-away-ivy-years-2-by.html

*****
My Thoughts:

Every so often we come across a book that really resonates with us. A novel that we devour from cover to cover. cherishing each page, even though it completely breaks your heart. A novel that shoves a mirror in front of your face and makes you reflect on every choice you've made in life and wonder if you've made worthwhile decisions. A novel to make you laugh. A novel to make you cry. A novel to change your life. That novel was The Year We Hid Away.

It is not lightly that I type this next sentence. Tying with Chelsea Fine's Best Kind of Broken, this is now my all time favorite New Adult Contemporary novel. Yes readers, you've read that right. All-time favorite. If that alone doesn't make you want to devour this read, I don't know what else I can that that will.

I'll be honest, I have been extremely hesitant to put my thoughts to paper for this novel. I don't even have the words in my head to say how much it meant to me. I can honestly say that I've never in 23 years been touched by a book the way this one touched me.

This was, by no means, an easy read for me. A lot of the aspects of the storyline hit a little too close to home for me and that really made all the difference. I won't go into specifics here, but this book was really a much needed wake up call for me and I can say that I'm a much better person for having read it.

The Year We Hid Away is unique in the sense that it shares not just one, but two very full stories. Each of our main characters, both Bridger and Scarlet have extremely emotional, and very full stories that are told in interweaving fashion. While their situations couldn't have been more different, their love for one another proved to be the link to each of their problems.

Scarlet Crowley has probably drawn the roughest hand imaginable. Thrust into the throes of scandal and tragedy, 'Shannon' has no choice but to change her life by assuming a new identity. Leaving behind the life she's know in an effort to start anew. A new college, new friends, a new life. I can't personally say that I know anyone who has undergone the hardships that Scarlet has. Dealing with tragedy is a very hard thing, but it's even worse when your family is on the line. Scarlet makes some very difficult decisions throughout the novel and really has to come to terms with both the truth and who she is in order to come to terms with her situation. It was extremely hard for me to read, but Bowen write the entire uncomfortable situation with such grace and tact that I was able to enjoy every word. I appreciate Scarlet's character so much more after reading the hardships she faced.

Bridger on the other hand probably ended up being my favorite male character in NA history. I'm usually one of the biggest nay-sayers for the male characters in an NA series. They're often one-sided, egotistical to a fault, and really just thrive off the bad boy lifestyle, never assuming responsibility or stepping up and 'being a man'. Bridger McCaulley was that and so much more. Bridger doesn't have it easy, growing up poor and caring for his family, he knows that getting a college education is the most important thing he can do to help his family. On top of juggling hockey, work, school, and the typical problems a college student faces, Bridger also assumes the parental responsibilities of his younger sister, Lucy. This hit me hard. As the oldest of three children, I know how important family can be. Every word of Bridger's story was a knife in my gut. I am not an emotional reader folks, and this story broke me. I speak more time wiping my eyes than turning the pages. I caught the feels. I caught them hard.

The secondary characters were also incredible in helping this story move along. Lucy, Bridger's little sister, really stole the show on several occasions and I am so glad that Bowen gave her time to shine. Scarlet's room mates were great, as well as her uncle, who plays a great role in the stories finale. One of the greatest things about this series is that you never know who is going to pop back in for a cameo, or maybe even their own novel down the road. It's a fantastic way to read a series. This novel also features a few key scenes with Corey and Hartley from book one, The Year We Fell Down where readers get a chance to check in on one of my favorite book couples. It was great!

The character development between Bridger and Scarlet was written to near-perfection. Their intertwining storylines create one of the most intricate webs I have seen in a New Adult novel. Let this be shown as a true testament to the talent of Sarina Bowen to craft such a powerful and uplifting story full of depth and emotion, without sacrificing character development in order to succeed. Their love was beyond real to me. They not only accepted each and every fault of the others, they also worked together in the most important of way to help the other succeed.

Every time you think the story is done bringing the feels and the jaw dropping, Bowen drops another bombshell. You would be able to pick your jaw up off the floor until the very last page. And by then you will be crying so hard you'll need a new paperback copy where the ink isn't ruined (note: I read a digital version haha).

Can I just say that I wish I had gone to Harkness College? What a fun place to be? The classical architecture, the house divisions, the amount of school spirit and campus pride? Yeah. I can definitely get behind that. I said this earlier, but I believe that Sarina Bowen has written the perfect college setting within Harkness. It's so awesome! I really got the feel that I, too, was attending classes next to these characters! Talk about reader immersion!

When it comes to the themes of this novel, Bowen really shined. Assuming responsibility, taking charge of your destiny, selflessness, maturing, and family are huge themes displayed in this novel. I can't even begin to write about each of them without making this post five pages long, but I can honestly say that Bowen couldn't have done a better job writing this novel if she tried. This is not a single thing I would change about it.

As you guys can all clearly see, this was definitely the novel for me. It renewed my faith in the New Adult genre and I cannot wait to see what happens next. The world needs more authors like Sarina Bowen. Authors who aren't afraid to write the trust about being a New Adult. Authors who understand that college isn't all about fun. It's a stressful time fueled heartache and confusion. Balancing work, school, and any inkling of a social life isn't easy, and Bowen clearly knows that. It's so refreshing to see an author correctly portray the NA lifestyle!

When it comes to rating this novel, a five stars just does not give it justice. I'll just be completely honest. If I had the option to give it a higher score, I certainly would. It isn't often that we get the opportunity to review the novels that have changed our lives and I am so honored to say that I have gotten to here. Here's to you Sarina Bowen, you've written a literary masterpiece that will forever hold a special place in my bookish heart.

It is with no hesitation and great honor that I am granting The Year We Hid Away by Sarina Bowen a perfect 5-star review. I am not kidding when I say this one is a new all-time favorite of mine. If you've never taken a recommendation from me before, start now and check this one out. I promise you that you will not regret it!
*****

Whereas the first in The Ivy Years series focused on two characters who were physically imperfect, in The Year We Hid Away Bridger and Scarlet are dealing with emotional scars.
Anyone who has read The Year We Fell Down will remember Bridger as Hartley's best friend and a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy. In this novel, Sabrina Bowen strips all the bravado away to reveal Bridger's soul to her readers. Bridger has taken on responsibilities beyond those usually expected of a 'brother'; putting his personal life on hold and his college place in jeopardy. Although Bridger is clearly breaking the rules, we can never condemn him because every action he takes is out of love for his sister.
Scarlet too is making sacrifices, but she is doing so to protect herself from the shame and embarrassment caused by her parents. Scarlet is a much tougher character than Bridger, because of the drama within her family and the fact that cutting herself loose is the only way she can see to escape.
Despite their circumstances, when Bridger and Scarlet meet, we immediately want their friendship to become something more, but understand their reasons for remaining uninvolved. I love the fact that initially the relationship between the two is innocent, with just a look or touch during study time and then it becomes HOT!
The Year We Hid Away is written in a dual narrative, helping us to see the parts of their world they keep hidden. Sarina Bowen's writing is utterly addictive and emotional as both character's lives implode. I was so immersed in the story that I ignored the time and before I realized, it was 3am and I had reached the end.
I have 3 more books by Sarina Bowen, which I am now very eager to read. The Ivy Years is a perfect series for any fans of New Adult Contemporary Romance.
I received this as a complimentary copy, in exchange for an honest review.

The Year We Hid Away is absolutely fantastic. A must read! Another original, heartfelt read that moved me deeply.

Sarina Bowen is easily becoming a favorite author. Her writing is a pleasure to read. It's clean and effortless. Sarina's books are not like the majority of New Adult recycled reads out there. It's completely hers, and her's alone. THANK GOODNESS!

Bridger... WOW. What a guy! I take back all the negative things I have ever said about sweet heroes, because this guy tops the cake! He is just amazing! Gahh, I'm so in love! I refuse to go into detail as to why he is so spectacular. It must be read in order to experience the greatness that is Bridger. I can't imagine another hero ever cutting it for me again the way Bridger did. Selfless and with a huge heart. He sacrificed his needs in order to help others. I can't believe how much I loved him. There was no facade, or explanation for his personality, he's just that good of a guy. I personally loved that there was no excuse. Too many times authors give reasons why the hero is the way he is. I loved that it wasn't the case for Bridger. It really made his character standout.

Both Bridger and Scarlet are dealing with massive family problems. They're struggling desperately in their own way and leaning on each other at the same time. The secrets are huge, ones that I never anticipated, so I completely understood their reasoning to hide them. The suspense was high and once it all came out, I felt like I could breathe again. That is, until a secret was revealed that I did not seen coming!

All I have to say to Sarina is, keep the books coming! Don't ever stop writing!

5 even more heartwarming stars

WARNING: this book will make you want to hug Bridger and never let him go...

“She’s hiding something big. He’s hiding someone small.” That’s the understatement of the year.

Scarlet Crowley’s life was torn apart the day father was arrested for unspeakable crimes. But college will be Scarlet’s fresh start. Clutching a shiny new student ID — with a newly minted name on it — she leaves it all behind.

Bridger McCaulley is a varsity hockey star known for being a player both on and off the ice. But a sobering family crisis takes that all away. Protecting his sister means a precarious living arrangement and constant deception. The only bright spot in his week is the few stolen hours he spends with Scarlet.

If he sounds like a jerk and he acts like a jerk, then he’s a jerk, right? Yeah… NOPE! Bridger is exactly like that in The Year We Fell Down. I really didn’t like him in the other book. But in this one? OH MY GOD! He’s one of the best, toughest, smartest, most thoughtful hero I’ve read in a long time.

He’s the best big brother there is
“Because your tummy is pissed off right now.”
“You said a swear”. Her voice was small.
“You can say one, too. Anyone who’s throwing up gets a free swear”.
“S***” Lucy said.
“Good one”.

There is nothing he wouldn’t do for his little sister! And this made me smile a lot, mostly because I’m a big sister and I have the same feelings toward my sister. There were parts, however, that also broke my heart in so many tiny pieces… Bridger, you rock.

He’s also great with Scarlet. He knows what is like to keep a secret from the world, so he doesn’t pressure her. He lets her build her own trust in him. Even though their friendship started as a Tuesday and Thursday Statistics class + music theory class + lunch date, they soon evolved to something more.
“Thank you, Scarlet”.
“For what? For being your Tuesday and Thursday girl?”
“For all seven days. Because I think of you on all of them”.

Awwwwwwww

I liked this book way more than the first one. There was romance (of course), but lots of tense parts that left me reading the book till dawn. There were tears and laughs and “Oh my God”s… lots of “Oh my God”s (the good ones, the sad ones and the I-didn’t-see-that-coming ones)!

This was my first Sarina Bowen novel and it 1000000% won’t be my last. I fell in love with this novel and the characters almost immediately. I had no idea where the book would lead and loved every turn of the story. The characters’ chemistry was amazing. I’m a bit embarrassed to say that I got so hooked on this novel that it actually tricked my brain MULTIPLE TIMES into thinking Bridger was real. If only.

I can’t wait to read the other books in this series as well as the rest of Bowen’s works.

In the second installment of The Ivy Years, we get the story of Bridger, who is a character first seen in the first book and Scarlet, who is a new character. When we first met Bridger, he was quite the party animal, but now his partying days are over as he struggles to keep up with his studies, taking care of his sister in secret and maintaining 2 jobs. He has no time for girls, but when Scarlet enters his life, he makes time for her. It starts off with the two of them helping each other with their school work, but it develops into something much more. Scarlet is also hiding a secret that she fears will change the way Bridger sees her. Will the two of them make it or will their secrets tear them apart?

The Year We Hid Away was absolutely fantastic. I couldn't imagine being in Scarlet's shoes, and it was easy to understand why she would want to run away and start a new life. My heart broke for her. She was so strong, and there wasn't a moment in the story when I wasn't rooting for her. Bridger was not what I had expected at all. He was different guy than we saw in the first book and had tremendous responsibility on his shoulders. I hate to say Bridger was perfect, but he was awfully close. The way he treated and supported Scarlet made me melt. Both were dealing with some serious life issues and needed someone to lean on, whether they wanted to admit it or not. I have a feeling this will be my favorite book in the series, but of course the jury is still out.

Probably the most ambitious plot I've ever read in a romance and almost too complicated to enjoy. The backstories completely overwhelmed the romance in the book, although the reason why I was able to give this book 3 stars was that Bridger's character was perhaps one of the best I've read in this YA/NA genre.