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QB Bad Boy #0
The Summer of '98
Before Drayton and Dallas, there was Ellie and Leroy . . .
With the prequel to her smash hit The QB Bad Boy and Me, rising star Tay Marley returns to tell the story of Drayton’s parents and the summer that changed everything . . .
Sometimes home isn’t a place, it’s a person. From the moment their eyes met, Ellie knew he would be her destiny. Handsome and ripped, there’s just something about Leroy Lehay, Baylor University’s soon-to-be star quarterback, that makes him impossible to resist.
Consumed by a passion neither one of them can quite understand, Leroy and Ellie spend the summer together. Left senseless and overwhelmed by his touch, Ellie experiences a world of desire she could never have imagined.
Safe in Leroy’s arms, Ellie begins to see a life beyond high school: going to college, starting her own business, having a family. But when life-altering news shakes them to their cores, Leroy and Ellie must discover if their passion is enough to help them get through what might possibly be the greatest challenge of their lives.
With the prequel to her smash hit The QB Bad Boy and Me, rising star Tay Marley returns to tell the story of Drayton’s parents and the summer that changed everything . . .
Sometimes home isn’t a place, it’s a person. From the moment their eyes met, Ellie knew he would be her destiny. Handsome and ripped, there’s just something about Leroy Lehay, Baylor University’s soon-to-be star quarterback, that makes him impossible to resist.
Consumed by a passion neither one of them can quite understand, Leroy and Ellie spend the summer together. Left senseless and overwhelmed by his touch, Ellie experiences a world of desire she could never have imagined.
Safe in Leroy’s arms, Ellie begins to see a life beyond high school: going to college, starting her own business, having a family. But when life-altering news shakes them to their cores, Leroy and Ellie must discover if their passion is enough to help them get through what might possibly be the greatest challenge of their lives.
368 pages, Paperback
Published July 21, 2020
About the author
Tay Marley
4 books309 followersWattpad: tayxwriter
Instagram: tayxwriter
Author of the most read book on wattpad in 2018, The QB Bad Boy and Me, now available in all leading book stores.
The prequel to The QB Bad Boy and Me, The Summer of '98 out now! Order it from Amazon, Book Depository and your local book stores.
Tay Marley wears many hats: bibliophile, entrepreneur, wife, mother, and featured Wattpad author. Her whirlwind journey on Wattpad began in 2017 and led to one hundred thousand dedicated followers, a five-part series, and three stand-alone books, including her breakout story, The QB Bad Boy and Me, which have amassed over forty-one million reads. She resides in New Zealand with her husband. When she isn’t writing about confident women and their love interests, she’s teaching her three small children how to be the leads in their own epic tales.
Instagram: tayxwriter
Author of the most read book on wattpad in 2018, The QB Bad Boy and Me, now available in all leading book stores.
The prequel to The QB Bad Boy and Me, The Summer of '98 out now! Order it from Amazon, Book Depository and your local book stores.
Tay Marley wears many hats: bibliophile, entrepreneur, wife, mother, and featured Wattpad author. Her whirlwind journey on Wattpad began in 2017 and led to one hundred thousand dedicated followers, a five-part series, and three stand-alone books, including her breakout story, The QB Bad Boy and Me, which have amassed over forty-one million reads. She resides in New Zealand with her husband. When she isn’t writing about confident women and their love interests, she’s teaching her three small children how to be the leads in their own epic tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
February 22, 2024
A one night stand turns into a full blown relationship for two recent high school graduates who meet at a frat party. Leroy is living in Colorado but is set to become the new quarterback at Baylor in Waco, Tx where Ellie lives. Ellie & Leroy's relationship was super sweet and I loved how gentle they both were with each other. It all almost seemed a little too easy at times, but with sibling rivalry, strained parent relationships, friend drama, and the normal growing pains of teens finding their way in the world, this book wasn't without drama.
When I picked this up I had no idea it was a prequel and book #2 in a series. To me it felt like a stand alone, but I am still excited to check out book #1. Maybe I am nit picking but some of the phrases and verbiage were a bit off. These characters are from Texas and Colorado yet they were using slang terms that are more commonly spoken by people in other parts of the world. Leroy's dad is an all American type ex NFL player and he's using the term "bloody" and asking people if they'd like a cup of tea. Seemed odd.
As someone who doesn't read many young adult books, The Summer of '98 was a change of pace for me, and I really enjoyed it. Despite this being a story about two eighteen year olds experiencing their first love, I was able to really relate to it in several ways, including all the late 90's pop culture references and nostalgia. I already have The QB Bad Boy and Me on my bookshelf for when the mood to revisit these characters strikes.
3.75 stars
When I picked this up I had no idea it was a prequel and book #2 in a series. To me it felt like a stand alone, but I am still excited to check out book #1. Maybe I am nit picking but some of the phrases and verbiage were a bit off. These characters are from Texas and Colorado yet they were using slang terms that are more commonly spoken by people in other parts of the world. Leroy's dad is an all American type ex NFL player and he's using the term "bloody" and asking people if they'd like a cup of tea. Seemed odd.
As someone who doesn't read many young adult books, The Summer of '98 was a change of pace for me, and I really enjoyed it. Despite this being a story about two eighteen year olds experiencing their first love, I was able to really relate to it in several ways, including all the late 90's pop culture references and nostalgia. I already have The QB Bad Boy and Me on my bookshelf for when the mood to revisit these characters strikes.
3.75 stars
July 23, 2020
If I can't put a book down for a single minute, it automatically deserves that 5-star rating. I had the time of my life witnessing the story. For instance, the author excels in bringing the '90s back to life. It surely made me appreciate that decade more, most especially the music.
The Summer of '98 follows the story of Ellie who met Leroy at a party in her hometown. They hit it off and they spent their summer together. When Ellie lived with Leroy in Colorado over the summer, everything changes. This book will take you to their crazy summer adventures and heartfelt moments.
I love the relationship between Ellie and Leroy. They loved each other from the very beginning and I am glad that they stuck with each other despite what happened. I also love the Lahey family. They welcomed Ellie with open arms from day one and was always supportive of her.
Overall, this book was truly astonishing beyond words and I'm glad I was able to witness Ellie and Leroy's story. I also like how the structure of the book also included Leroy's point of view. The way the author wrote this book felt like I was witnessing the story live. Ellie and Leroy were able to successfully conquer obstacles as teenagers. A very important lesson that I picked up from Ellie and Leroy is that love conquers all. No matter what comes in your way, as long as love is strong, everything will be okay.
Huge thanks to Smith Publicity for sending me a digital ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Summer of '98 follows the story of Ellie who met Leroy at a party in her hometown. They hit it off and they spent their summer together. When Ellie lived with Leroy in Colorado over the summer, everything changes. This book will take you to their crazy summer adventures and heartfelt moments.
I love the relationship between Ellie and Leroy. They loved each other from the very beginning and I am glad that they stuck with each other despite what happened. I also love the Lahey family. They welcomed Ellie with open arms from day one and was always supportive of her.
Overall, this book was truly astonishing beyond words and I'm glad I was able to witness Ellie and Leroy's story. I also like how the structure of the book also included Leroy's point of view. The way the author wrote this book felt like I was witnessing the story live. Ellie and Leroy were able to successfully conquer obstacles as teenagers. A very important lesson that I picked up from Ellie and Leroy is that love conquers all. No matter what comes in your way, as long as love is strong, everything will be okay.
Huge thanks to Smith Publicity for sending me a digital ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 9, 2020
The Summer of '98 is a romance about young love. Tay Marley writes such a sweet story about to young adults falling head over heels for each other during the summer of '98. Ellie and Leroy are adorable together and I was captivated by this book from the very beginning.
Ellie is a young woman who just graduated high school. She goes to a local frat party to celebrate with her best friend. She locks eyes with a charming young man named Leroy. They instantly hit it off. Although she is inexperienced, she feels an undeniable attraction to him and they spend the night together.
The story picks up a few months later. Ellie is on her way to Colorado to spend the summer with Leroy and his family. When they are together, they feel like the only two people in the room. Their parents are skeptical about this relationship knowing that they are young, but Leroy's parents begin to notice that they may be the real deal.
Although this was a quick love story, I liked that they spent the summer together because they got to know each other better. I didn't think it was rushed because they did spend almost every moment together. I liked that Tay Marley allowed readers to get to know Leroy's family and friends. Noah, Cass, and Leroy's parents were great supporting characters that helped these two always find their way back to each other.
I thought it was refreshing to read about Ellie's mom. She is always supportive and stricter than most and I think this added a genuine nature to the book. I felt like this made the book more real and raw, especially after Ellie and Leroy's relationship becomes more permanent.
I give The Summer of '98 4 stars. Although this was my first time reading Tay Marley, I loved the easy to read writing style and sweet characters. This is a love at first sight romance that is tested as the story progresses yet it highlighted the beauty of young love.
Ellie is a young woman who just graduated high school. She goes to a local frat party to celebrate with her best friend. She locks eyes with a charming young man named Leroy. They instantly hit it off. Although she is inexperienced, she feels an undeniable attraction to him and they spend the night together.
The story picks up a few months later. Ellie is on her way to Colorado to spend the summer with Leroy and his family. When they are together, they feel like the only two people in the room. Their parents are skeptical about this relationship knowing that they are young, but Leroy's parents begin to notice that they may be the real deal.
Although this was a quick love story, I liked that they spent the summer together because they got to know each other better. I didn't think it was rushed because they did spend almost every moment together. I liked that Tay Marley allowed readers to get to know Leroy's family and friends. Noah, Cass, and Leroy's parents were great supporting characters that helped these two always find their way back to each other.
I thought it was refreshing to read about Ellie's mom. She is always supportive and stricter than most and I think this added a genuine nature to the book. I felt like this made the book more real and raw, especially after Ellie and Leroy's relationship becomes more permanent.
I give The Summer of '98 4 stars. Although this was my first time reading Tay Marley, I loved the easy to read writing style and sweet characters. This is a love at first sight romance that is tested as the story progresses yet it highlighted the beauty of young love.
April 14, 2022
After reading and enjoying, "The QB Bad Boy and Me", I knew I would have to pick this book up as it's somewhat of a prequel being the story of Drayton's parents. With that being said, I think these books can be read as standalones and you do not need to read one to enjoy the other.
This was a good read but I wouldn't say that I had the same level of enjoyment that I had while reading "The QB Bad Boy and Me". This could be because it has been so long since I read the original book or the fact that this story involves my least favourite trope. Even though this story does centre around my least favourite trope, I think in respect to that it was handled well.
This was a good read that would be a nice fit for summer days out by the pool or on the beach.
***Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
This was a good read but I wouldn't say that I had the same level of enjoyment that I had while reading "The QB Bad Boy and Me". This could be because it has been so long since I read the original book or the fact that this story involves my least favourite trope. Even though this story does centre around my least favourite trope, I think in respect to that it was handled well.
This was a good read that would be a nice fit for summer days out by the pool or on the beach.
***Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
July 23, 2020
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED THIS ONE! I absolutely adored Tay’s first published book, “The QB bad boy and me” and couldn’t help going into this with high expectations. Let me tell you: I was NOT disappointed. First thing first, the chemistry between Leroy and Ellie was undeniable from the get-go. I’ve never shipped characters so fast in my life. It felt refreshing to have a lead be so unproblematic and kind. Leroy is the good guy every girl dreams of. I also loved how Ellie wasn’t only falling for the boy, but also his family, his life. I LIVED for Cass, too. While Leroy’s brother did rub me the wrong way at times, he felt REAL, which is so hard to find in a book these days. So satisfied with the ending, too. Do yourself a favour and read it! Can’t wait to see what else Tay has in store for us:)
August 18, 2020
This was really cute, but I can appreciate it’s nothing amazing. Not the best work out there but definitely put a huge smile on my face.
July 6, 2020
Sweet, easy read.
I loved the first book in this series, so I was so excited to read the prequel story of Drayton's parents. The book was cute and I enjoyed how much Leroy and Ellie loved each other and that even when things were tough, their relationship didn't waver.
I think knowing what would happen made the story less exciting and I was just waiting for the big news to hit. Once it did, I was able to get into the plot more and see how Ellie and Leroy dealt with everything. I didn't like Noah's character, he never seemed real and he was pretty abusive toward Cass. I can't remember if he's in the first book, so I may need a reread to check. I did love Leroy's parents and how supportive they were. They weren't happy about their eighteen year old son having a child, but they helped out so much so that he could raise his kids and pursue his dreams.
I liked this book and now I'm itching to reread the first book! I need Drayton and Dallas in my life again!
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the first book in this series, so I was so excited to read the prequel story of Drayton's parents. The book was cute and I enjoyed how much Leroy and Ellie loved each other and that even when things were tough, their relationship didn't waver.
I think knowing what would happen made the story less exciting and I was just waiting for the big news to hit. Once it did, I was able to get into the plot more and see how Ellie and Leroy dealt with everything. I didn't like Noah's character, he never seemed real and he was pretty abusive toward Cass. I can't remember if he's in the first book, so I may need a reread to check. I did love Leroy's parents and how supportive they were. They weren't happy about their eighteen year old son having a child, but they helped out so much so that he could raise his kids and pursue his dreams.
I liked this book and now I'm itching to reread the first book! I need Drayton and Dallas in my life again!
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2020
This was a sweet YA read. It’s the story of Drayton’s parents. Ellie and Leroy are so cute & it was fun to have a story set in the 90s with the music, the fashion, the innocence. Great cast of supporting characters with both family and friends. A really enjoyable story.
I received an arc of this book.
I received an arc of this book.
February 17, 2024
it was giving me severe binding 13 vibes somehow.
July 24, 2020
Tay Marley is a new author to me but that’s about to change because after reading The Summer of 98 I can’t understand why I haven’t come across this author before now.
This is a sweet easy to read book that I believe is the prequel to book one and its Drayton’s patents Ellie and Leroy’s story. The Summer of 98 follows Ellie and Leroy when they they go on a summer of crazy adventures through Colorado but it’s not just the fun times there are plenty of heartfelt moments in this great read. This is a couple who conquered all the twist and turns that teenage love threw in their way and a couple that made it to adulthood still together.this book really shows us that love is strong and love conquers all if we just give it a chance and believe.
This is a sweet easy to read book that I believe is the prequel to book one and its Drayton’s patents Ellie and Leroy’s story. The Summer of 98 follows Ellie and Leroy when they they go on a summer of crazy adventures through Colorado but it’s not just the fun times there are plenty of heartfelt moments in this great read. This is a couple who conquered all the twist and turns that teenage love threw in their way and a couple that made it to adulthood still together.this book really shows us that love is strong and love conquers all if we just give it a chance and believe.
July 24, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for an Arc in exchange for an honest review. My review will be published upon the novel's release.
Update 7/23: here is my review of the novel
This book started with a lot of promise, then ended up being a struggle to read. I am a huge fan of romance novels, but this one is not for me.
First, ista-love is not my favorite, but sometimes it works well. This is not one of those cases. Every time they would talk about each other and their love, I would cringe, like actually cringe. What made it a lot worse, was how Leroy, the male love interest, would talk about Ellie, the female love interest and protagonist. He would want to “show her off” to everyone and how she was his. When Ellie tells Leroy he’s jealous he tells her, “That would suggest that I want what isn’t mine” (Marley). This ruined what was a funny and cutesie scene between them. These remarks made it feel like she was an object, which is the opposite of his character. He is nice, respectful, and *spoiler* does not pressure Ellie to keep the baby. This really hurt his character for me.
Next, the scene, and character, that almost made me put the book down, and if you have read it you should know. I had really high hopes for Noah, Leroy’s younger brother, and I thought I was going to love his character. I thought that his character development was going to be the best in the book, I was wrong. There is a scene where This incident is not revisited afterward, at all.
Finally, the novel has a fairy tale ending. All the conflicts that were touched upon in the novel have a happy conclusion, with the exception of Noah’s feelings. This made the novel less enjoyable as there are no consequences to the character’s actions. In fact, the relationship between Ellie and Leroy has little to no conflicts. This made the story less relatable and enjoyable to read, as it did not give me a reason to root for the couple.
To end my review on a positive note, I did enjoy many of the side characters. Jacob, Elanor, Cass, and Amber all made the story more enjoyable. Jacob and Elanor, Leroy’s parents, are prime examples of loving and supporting parents. I couldn’t help but laugh at Jacob’s dad humor, and how his jokes lighten up the mood. Cass is relatable in the aspect that sometimes you don’t choose who you fall in love with. With Amber, Ellie’s best friend, she is one of those friends who can lighten up a mood, even during serious times. These relatable supporting characters really stole the focus from the main characters and made reading the novel a bit more enjoyable.
Update 7/23: here is my review of the novel
This book started with a lot of promise, then ended up being a struggle to read. I am a huge fan of romance novels, but this one is not for me.
First, ista-love is not my favorite, but sometimes it works well. This is not one of those cases. Every time they would talk about each other and their love, I would cringe, like actually cringe. What made it a lot worse, was how Leroy, the male love interest, would talk about Ellie, the female love interest and protagonist. He would want to “show her off” to everyone and how she was his. When Ellie tells Leroy he’s jealous he tells her, “That would suggest that I want what isn’t mine” (Marley). This ruined what was a funny and cutesie scene between them. These remarks made it feel like she was an object, which is the opposite of his character. He is nice, respectful, and *spoiler* does not pressure Ellie to keep the baby. This really hurt his character for me.
Next, the scene, and character, that almost made me put the book down, and if you have read it you should know. I had really high hopes for Noah, Leroy’s younger brother, and I thought I was going to love his character. I thought that his character development was going to be the best in the book, I was wrong. There is a scene where This incident is not revisited afterward, at all.
Finally, the novel has a fairy tale ending. All the conflicts that were touched upon in the novel have a happy conclusion, with the exception of Noah’s feelings. This made the novel less enjoyable as there are no consequences to the character’s actions. In fact, the relationship between Ellie and Leroy has little to no conflicts. This made the story less relatable and enjoyable to read, as it did not give me a reason to root for the couple.
To end my review on a positive note, I did enjoy many of the side characters. Jacob, Elanor, Cass, and Amber all made the story more enjoyable. Jacob and Elanor, Leroy’s parents, are prime examples of loving and supporting parents. I couldn’t help but laugh at Jacob’s dad humor, and how his jokes lighten up the mood. Cass is relatable in the aspect that sometimes you don’t choose who you fall in love with. With Amber, Ellie’s best friend, she is one of those friends who can lighten up a mood, even during serious times. These relatable supporting characters really stole the focus from the main characters and made reading the novel a bit more enjoyable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2020
That was actually kinda really cute. I just kinda wish I would have read it before I read the QB Bad Boy and Me but oh well. I'm just really mad about that crap epilogue. Who the heck writes an epilogue that's just a scene right before someone dies. The author could have at least written about what happened after the character died. Like why did she have to get us all crying about that. Literally the saddest way to ever end a book.
Also, I can't believe that all that stuff happened with Noah and Cass and then Noah just ended up cheating on her and leaving in the QB Bad Boy and Me. What an idiot. At least now I can finally understand what the burritos mean in the next book.
Also, I can't believe that all that stuff happened with Noah and Cass and then Noah just ended up cheating on her and leaving in the QB Bad Boy and Me. What an idiot. At least now I can finally understand what the burritos mean in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2020
Ellie is a sweet, naive, and an obedient eighteen-year-old. Leroy is a responsible, kind, football player. This book is engaging. The writer makes it easy for the reader to visualize the story. Leroy and Ellie are relatable characters but the author could have added flaws to make them more intriguing. Leroy’s parents seemed way too good to be true. It was hard to connect with Ellie’s character because she’s not ambitious enough to be completely career-oriented. Some paragraphs served no purpose in the story. The cover for this book is misleading. If readers expect typical high school sports drama they will be disappointed.
August 19, 2021
Ho impegnato più tempo del previsto a leggere questo libro ma non a causa della storia… semplicemente a metà mi sono presa una pausa per leggere un altro libro che aspettavo da tempo!!! 😅
Detto ciò, la lettura è stata veramente interessante!
Questo libro affronta la storia dei genitori di Drayton di “The QB bad boy and me”… genitori che abbiamo conosciuto in vestì decisamente diverse, con caratteri diversi e segnati da esperienze devastanti! Leggere il prequel, avendo già chiaro come sarebbero andati gli eventi futuri, è stato allo stesso tempo un po’ triste e un po’ confortante!
In questa storia Ella e Leyton sono giovani, innamorati e hanno tutto il loro futuro davanti… e poi si trovano a vivere una situazione che sconvolgerà il loro mondo per sempre! Sapere già chi ci sarà e chi invece non ci sarà più nella vita dei personaggi è stato molto particolare! Ti apre un po’ all’idea del “vorresti sapere come sarà il tuo futuro?”
Sicuramente il primo libro ci ha messi davanti ad episodi molto forti e ora abbiamo un dietro le quinte del perché alcuni personaggi hanno reagito in un mondo piuttosto che in un altro!
The Summer of ‘98 mi è veramente piaciuta molto come lettura e consiglio di seguire la volontà dell’autrice facendo un tuffo nel passato solo dopo aver letto il primo libro!
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ per i personaggi creati a regola d’arte e per una trama mai piatta che rende la storia super piacevole!
Detto ciò, la lettura è stata veramente interessante!
Questo libro affronta la storia dei genitori di Drayton di “The QB bad boy and me”… genitori che abbiamo conosciuto in vestì decisamente diverse, con caratteri diversi e segnati da esperienze devastanti! Leggere il prequel, avendo già chiaro come sarebbero andati gli eventi futuri, è stato allo stesso tempo un po’ triste e un po’ confortante!
In questa storia Ella e Leyton sono giovani, innamorati e hanno tutto il loro futuro davanti… e poi si trovano a vivere una situazione che sconvolgerà il loro mondo per sempre! Sapere già chi ci sarà e chi invece non ci sarà più nella vita dei personaggi è stato molto particolare! Ti apre un po’ all’idea del “vorresti sapere come sarà il tuo futuro?”
Sicuramente il primo libro ci ha messi davanti ad episodi molto forti e ora abbiamo un dietro le quinte del perché alcuni personaggi hanno reagito in un mondo piuttosto che in un altro!
The Summer of ‘98 mi è veramente piaciuta molto come lettura e consiglio di seguire la volontà dell’autrice facendo un tuffo nel passato solo dopo aver letto il primo libro!
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ per i personaggi creati a regola d’arte e per una trama mai piatta che rende la storia super piacevole!
July 29, 2020
Ellie and Leroy are so cute & it was fun to have a story set in the 90s with the music, the fashion, that era.This book is engaging. The writer makes it easy for the reader to visualize the story and feel connected to the characters and the storyline. The dual POV was done so well. These characters are so full of innocence and the story just flowed
i will read every single book tay writes!
i will read every single book tay writes!
May 26, 2020
I loved this book that it even make me want to live in the 90's so bad. I loved their relationship and to read from the point of view from the two main characters. This book is different to others because it really felt I was living in the book.
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September 22, 2021This was better than I expected 😁 I read the first book by this author (The QB Bad Boy and Me), and as much as I liked the story I had a hard time relating to the characters in that one. I found the language the characters used harder to follow. Maybe that was because of my own high school experience, but whatever it was I found their reality harder to imagine, and therefore relate to.
But it was better with this one. The characters were more relatable because they were older, and out of high school (well, most of them anyway). So their realities were a bit more realistic for me to imagine happening. Though there were still a few times I needed to remind myself they were still in their teen years. Even if their personalities were more mature.
This book was a cute story about first love. Leroy was like the guy that every girl wants, he checks all the boxes so to speak 😍 He's attentive, sweet, caring, loyal, he listens, and he does absolutely anything for those he loves. He seems way older than he actually is, and I think for that reason I kept having the feeling of him being too good to be true. As much as I was rooting for him and Ellie, I kept fearing that something was going to give, and everything was going to fall apart. It kept me on the edge of my seat while I read, and that thought kept me reading until the end 💕
A job well done by the author 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I really enjoyed Cass 😊 I found her funny and sweet🌻. She was the best friend that sometimes put her own happiness on the back burner in order to keep the peace, or to keep everyone else happy. She's a strong willed woman, though she has her weaknesses, and she keeps everyone on their toes with her go with the flow personality.
With everything I liked about this book, there are things that nagged at my mind. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed this story, and how Leroy and Ellie's love story came about, but I wanted more. Especially with what I know they encounter later on. I wanted to see how they tackled those challenges, both together and separately, and if those struggles effected their relationship with each other and others.
All in all, this book was cute and put a smile on my face. I think this book, and her other story (The QB Bad Boy and Me) would make great movies. I mean, I would watch it 🙋🏻♀️
But it was better with this one. The characters were more relatable because they were older, and out of high school (well, most of them anyway). So their realities were a bit more realistic for me to imagine happening. Though there were still a few times I needed to remind myself they were still in their teen years. Even if their personalities were more mature.
This book was a cute story about first love. Leroy was like the guy that every girl wants, he checks all the boxes so to speak 😍 He's attentive, sweet, caring, loyal, he listens, and he does absolutely anything for those he loves. He seems way older than he actually is, and I think for that reason I kept having the feeling of him being too good to be true. As much as I was rooting for him and Ellie, I kept fearing that something was going to give, and everything was going to fall apart. It kept me on the edge of my seat while I read, and that thought kept me reading until the end 💕
A job well done by the author 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I really enjoyed Cass 😊 I found her funny and sweet🌻. She was the best friend that sometimes put her own happiness on the back burner in order to keep the peace, or to keep everyone else happy. She's a strong willed woman, though she has her weaknesses, and she keeps everyone on their toes with her go with the flow personality.
With everything I liked about this book, there are things that nagged at my mind. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed this story, and how Leroy and Ellie's love story came about, but I wanted more. Especially with what I know they encounter later on. I wanted to see how they tackled those challenges, both together and separately, and if those struggles effected their relationship with each other and others.
All in all, this book was cute and put a smile on my face. I think this book, and her other story (The QB Bad Boy and Me) would make great movies. I mean, I would watch it 🙋🏻♀️
September 15, 2020
I'll post a review and rating when the book comes out.
In the meantime, you can read the review on my blog.
In the meantime, you can read the review on my blog.
August 16, 2019
This is officially part of the list of my favourite books ever. Those little descriptions surrounding their bond. Ellie's detailed picture of how Leroy makes her feel like. OMG!! I have never ever read such an incredible romantic book!!
August 13, 2020
**some plot spoilers below**
TW: teen pregnancy, contemplating abortion, unsupportive parent.
This was a sweet YA story about young love and navigating life. I haven't read many books that handle teen pregnancy with such care. It wasn't meant to be a cautionary tale of having unprotected sex and the consequences of getting pregnant like many teen pregnancy stories are.
The author didn't create a story of shame, but rather of resilience. So often do stories isolate the heroine to shame her and put the burden of figuring it out on her. While the author still allowed Ellie self autonomy and choice, she still created Leroy's character to be supportive and not pushy. He had a very kind reaction and allowed Ellie time and space to sort through her emotions.
Ellie's mom didn't react well and pressured her into choosing abortion or adoption, but Ellie made the decision to keep her baby even without her mom's help. Leroy's parents also didn't place shame on Ellie and offered her support and a home in whatever decision she made. Again, stories often don't offer this healthy storyline and I found it to be refreshing.
I ended this story with my heart warmed. Finally a story with a supportive and loving hero, supportive set of parents, and a success story of being young parents.
There is a stereotype that teens and young parents will undoubtedly fail and this is harmful. This model and expectation already sets young parents up for failure. I believe there should be more supportive stories like this ❤️
**Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review**
TW: teen pregnancy, contemplating abortion, unsupportive parent.
This was a sweet YA story about young love and navigating life. I haven't read many books that handle teen pregnancy with such care. It wasn't meant to be a cautionary tale of having unprotected sex and the consequences of getting pregnant like many teen pregnancy stories are.
The author didn't create a story of shame, but rather of resilience. So often do stories isolate the heroine to shame her and put the burden of figuring it out on her. While the author still allowed Ellie self autonomy and choice, she still created Leroy's character to be supportive and not pushy. He had a very kind reaction and allowed Ellie time and space to sort through her emotions.
Ellie's mom didn't react well and pressured her into choosing abortion or adoption, but Ellie made the decision to keep her baby even without her mom's help. Leroy's parents also didn't place shame on Ellie and offered her support and a home in whatever decision she made. Again, stories often don't offer this healthy storyline and I found it to be refreshing.
I ended this story with my heart warmed. Finally a story with a supportive and loving hero, supportive set of parents, and a success story of being young parents.
There is a stereotype that teens and young parents will undoubtedly fail and this is harmful. This model and expectation already sets young parents up for failure. I believe there should be more supportive stories like this ❤️
**Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review**
July 21, 2020
“The Summer of ‘98” by Tay Marley is a tender instant connection young adult romance about a rich football jock falling for the timid girl from the wrong side of the tracks. A sweet and sometimes predictable story of young love and the realities of life.
Thanks @wattpaddbooks and @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Blurb: Leroy and Ellie unexpectedly meet at a party and have an insta-love meet cute. Only a month later Ellie travels to Denver to spend time with Leroy and falls in love with not only Leroy, but his family. Both are faced with tough choices and new responsibilities. Can love blossom with so many indecisions?
This couple is almost too perfect. The first half of this book was mostly about falling in love and the development of a short term relationship. The angst is minimal and their isn’t much tension to propel the story forward. Even though I loved this couple, I didn’t really get to the good stuff until the book was almost completely over. An adorable couple, but the plot really fell flat for me.
Thanks @wattpaddbooks and @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Blurb: Leroy and Ellie unexpectedly meet at a party and have an insta-love meet cute. Only a month later Ellie travels to Denver to spend time with Leroy and falls in love with not only Leroy, but his family. Both are faced with tough choices and new responsibilities. Can love blossom with so many indecisions?
This couple is almost too perfect. The first half of this book was mostly about falling in love and the development of a short term relationship. The angst is minimal and their isn’t much tension to propel the story forward. Even though I loved this couple, I didn’t really get to the good stuff until the book was almost completely over. An adorable couple, but the plot really fell flat for me.
July 12, 2020
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Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
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The Summer of '98 by Tay Marley is a sweet young adult romance that managed to capture my attention from beginning to end. This story is the prequel to The QB Bad Boy and Me that focuses on Drayton Lehay's parents, Ellie and Leroy, during the summer that their romance first began. This was an interesting story that brings readers back to the late 90's during simpler times and gives you those warm and fuzzy feelings of nostalgia.
Ellie and Leroy's attraction towards one another was instant and their romance started out with a BANG...quite literally I must admit. Their chemistry was super sweet and it gave me something to smile about the entire time I was reading. I absolutely adored getting to know these characters even though I felt that their story moved a little too fast at times. In the end it was an enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of young adult romances with a coming of age feel.
While this book was technically published after the first book in the QB Bad Boy series, I didn't realize until I finished, so I can say without a doubt that it can certainly be read as a standalone BEFORE or AFTER reading, The QB Bad Boy and Me, which I plan to read soon since I am excited to read their son Drayton's story!
The Summer of '98 by Tay Marley is a sweet young adult romance that managed to capture my attention from beginning to end. This story is the prequel to The QB Bad Boy and Me that focuses on Drayton Lehay's parents, Ellie and Leroy, during the summer that their romance first began. This was an interesting story that brings readers back to the late 90's during simpler times and gives you those warm and fuzzy feelings of nostalgia.
Ellie and Leroy's attraction towards one another was instant and their romance started out with a BANG...quite literally I must admit. Their chemistry was super sweet and it gave me something to smile about the entire time I was reading. I absolutely adored getting to know these characters even though I felt that their story moved a little too fast at times. In the end it was an enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of young adult romances with a coming of age feel.
While this book was technically published after the first book in the QB Bad Boy series, I didn't realize until I finished, so I can say without a doubt that it can certainly be read as a standalone BEFORE or AFTER reading, The QB Bad Boy and Me, which I plan to read soon since I am excited to read their son Drayton's story!
July 17, 2020
I had such a hard time reading this one. The relationship was not developed and also moved at too quick a pace. Ellie and Leroy show their immaturity with how they handle all types of situations. Many of which were their own making. Leroy was better than Ellie though. Right from the start they would promise their parents one thing and they go and do what they promised not too with no or very little regard. Thus said, I just couldn't like the characters or even secondary ones which were just as bad. I know it was supposed to be 1998 but other than a few plugged in references it could have been current.
August 8, 2020
The Summer of '98 is the perfect quick summer read. Tay Marley builds a world that feels like stepping into a time machine and landing at the beginning of the summer of 1998. The story revolves around Ellie and Leroy, chronicling their relationship from the very beginning to their perfect ending. I enjoyed the balance of romance and the sensitive approach to mature topics. Ellie and Leroy's relationship is the star of this book, taking readers through the ups and downs of new young love. I wished that the conflict would have come a little sooner in the novel, but I did enjoy the time spent on building the nuances of Ellie and Leroy's relationship.
September 19, 2020
I loved The QB Bad Boy and was so happy to see that a prequel was available for Drayton's parents.
Ellie and Leroy were such a delight to get to know in this one. I loved Ellie's background and how she came to accept Leroy's life.
There is heartache to be expected here but what we recieve is such a breath of fresh air. Add in some football and summer nights and you have a swoon-worthy tale of two people doing what is natural, falling in love.
Thank you Wattpad books for the advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ellie and Leroy were such a delight to get to know in this one. I loved Ellie's background and how she came to accept Leroy's life.
There is heartache to be expected here but what we recieve is such a breath of fresh air. Add in some football and summer nights and you have a swoon-worthy tale of two people doing what is natural, falling in love.
Thank you Wattpad books for the advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 29, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
I hated the beginning- 2 ⭐️
But I loved the ending- 4.5 ⭐️
I hated the beginning- 2 ⭐️
But I loved the ending- 4.5 ⭐️
July 22, 2020
I adored this book SO much! A perfect summer read!
June 29, 2020
I DNF'd this close to the end. It just wasn't captivating me at all. I had such high hopes for this.
May 20, 2020
I’m not sure how to put onto words how much I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Reading this for the second time, re-edited, still felt as amazing as the first, if not better and I give a HUGE round of applause to the amazing author Tay Marley. I have read almost all of Tay’s books and each time, it is an experience in and of itself.
Summer of 98’ was an emotional rollercoaster. Reading it, and knowing what you know from the QB Bad Boy just drives every point home and makes it that much more incredible. Ellie and Leroy have to overcome one of the biggest of all struggles as teenagers in love, and this books is one of the best that I would recommend to show how two people should treat each other and the people around them.
This book could even be a self-help book for all I’m concerned with how it manages to make the reader think about their own actions and relationships.
Tay, you did it again.
Well done👏🏼
Reading this for the second time, re-edited, still felt as amazing as the first, if not better and I give a HUGE round of applause to the amazing author Tay Marley. I have read almost all of Tay’s books and each time, it is an experience in and of itself.
Summer of 98’ was an emotional rollercoaster. Reading it, and knowing what you know from the QB Bad Boy just drives every point home and makes it that much more incredible. Ellie and Leroy have to overcome one of the biggest of all struggles as teenagers in love, and this books is one of the best that I would recommend to show how two people should treat each other and the people around them.
This book could even be a self-help book for all I’m concerned with how it manages to make the reader think about their own actions and relationships.
Tay, you did it again.
Well done👏🏼
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