The Shameless Hour (Ivy Years, #4)

by Sarina Bowen

• ISBN10: 0991068084
• ISBN13: 9780991068081
• Publish Date: 13 April 2015
• Publish Status: Active
• Imprint: Rennie Road Books
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 334
• Language: English

Reviews

[Linda]

The Shameless Hour was so well done! And it was such a strong-themed story.

[Sam@WLABB]

I am a fan of this series, and liked the way Bowen explores various issues in these books. This book focuses on Bella, who likes sex, has a lot of casual sex, and Rafe, a 20 year old virgin, who believes in monogamous relationships. One night their worlds collide, and that is the beginning of these two denying their feelings for each other.

At the heart of the "issues" in this book is slut shaming. When men in their 20s have lots of sex, it is socially acceptable. When a woman in her 20s does the same exact thing, she is a slut. I love that Bowen called out society on their double standard. This is not my lifestyle, but if it is a lifestyle someone chooses, it is not a crime. I really appreciate that Bowen made Bella face some consequences, to show some of the risks, and she gave Bella Rafe. Rafe, was a prince, who did not judge Bella, although her lifestyle was not for him. He did not hold it against her or let it deter him from wanting her as his own.

Bella was everything - strong, soft, bitchy, vulnerable, funny, loyal. She was flawed, but she was amazing still. "That Night" broke my heart, but I was happy she had such wonderful friends to support her, and they never gave up on her.

The Ivy Years brings the drama, but we also get great characters, who can be really funny. I did my favorite three things: I laughed, I cried, I swooned.

[Rowena]

Bella's book was good. My heart went out to her and I loved me some Rafe. Full review to come but just know that this was a good one and I CAN'T WAIT for Leanne's book. Woot!

I was really angry at Dash in this book so a book for him is up in the air for me. I'm not sure if I want his story anymore. My thoughts where he was concerned was more along the lines of, "Too little, too late" ...