Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks
Format: Paperback
Pages: 352 pages
Challenges: N/A
ISBN #: 0062740652
Goodreads * Author Website
Set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Oxford, this sparkling debut novel tells the unforgettable story about a determined young woman eager to make her mark in the world and the handsome man who introduces her to an incredible love that will irrevocably alter her future—perfect for fans of JoJo Moyes and Nicholas Sparks.
American Ella Durran has had the same plan for her life since she was thirteen: Study at Oxford. At 24, she’s finally made it to England on a Rhodes Scholarship when she’s offered an unbelievable position in a rising political star’s presidential campaign. With the promise that she’ll work remotely and return to DC at the end of her Oxford year, she’s free to enjoy her Once in a Lifetime Experience. That is, until a smart-mouthed local who is too quick with his tongue and his car ruins her shirt and her first day.
When Ella discovers that her English literature course will be taught by none other than that same local, Jamie Davenport, she thinks for the first time that Oxford might not be all she’s envisioned. But a late-night drink reveals a connection she wasn’t anticipating finding and what begins as a casual fling soon develops into something much more when Ella learns Jamie has a life-changing secret.
Immediately, Ella is faced with a seemingly impossible decision: turn her back on the man she’s falling in love with to follow her political dreams or be there for him during a trial neither are truly prepared for. As the end of her year in Oxford rapidly approaches, Ella must decide if the dreams she’s always wanted are the same ones she’s now yearning for.
First off I want to thank the amazing publishing company that sent this book to me for review. If I'm being honest this book wasn't even on my radar so I'm very happy they got in contact with me about this one. As soon as I got my hands on this one and read the very first page, I was hooked and couldn't put this one down. I know I've said that about a billion times but it's so true! I went in not knowing much about this one, I read the email the publishing company had sent me but I didn't read much of the blurb, because I enjoy reading without knowing much. Brings more excitement to the book for me, at least that's what I've found so far.
I am in love with author Julia Whelan's writing style and loved the main character in this book just as much. The connection between Ella and me was very strong and I loved her witty comments and her thoughts alone matched some that I have on a daily basis. I went through this story hoping it wasn't going to break my heart and I could hold out without crying, fair warning, it isn't possible. Though I love a good cry over a book sometimes, it shows the author can bring out those feelings just with her writing. That says something right there! Don't get me wrong, this book had me laughing and full of emotion, not just sadness. Which of course made this book even more excellent.
Okay now, let's talk about Jamie Davenport! I loved this character as well, seriously right from the first meeting! I need more of him and Ella in my life. I don't want to give too much away so I'm not going to go into great detail as to why I love him so much, but he's witty, the carefree type, and just so darn cute in this book.
I will say this, I think this fantastic author wrapped this story up perfectly with a little bow and I'm so thankful for that. I was a little worried it wouldn't be and I've found quite a few books that hadn't lately, so YAY for that. I loved that at the end we get to decide pretty much what happened after she wrote the last word. Just perfection!
So all in all, My Oxford Year is a must buy if you loved books by Jo Jo Moyes. Just like the book itself says. I wasn't sure about that part when I saw that, but it's true!
I am in love with author Julia Whelan's writing style and loved the main character in this book just as much. The connection between Ella and me was very strong and I loved her witty comments and her thoughts alone matched some that I have on a daily basis. I went through this story hoping it wasn't going to break my heart and I could hold out without crying, fair warning, it isn't possible. Though I love a good cry over a book sometimes, it shows the author can bring out those feelings just with her writing. That says something right there! Don't get me wrong, this book had me laughing and full of emotion, not just sadness. Which of course made this book even more excellent.
Okay now, let's talk about Jamie Davenport! I loved this character as well, seriously right from the first meeting! I need more of him and Ella in my life. I don't want to give too much away so I'm not going to go into great detail as to why I love him so much, but he's witty, the carefree type, and just so darn cute in this book.
I will say this, I think this fantastic author wrapped this story up perfectly with a little bow and I'm so thankful for that. I was a little worried it wouldn't be and I've found quite a few books that hadn't lately, so YAY for that. I loved that at the end we get to decide pretty much what happened after she wrote the last word. Just perfection!
So all in all, My Oxford Year is a must buy if you loved books by Jo Jo Moyes. Just like the book itself says. I wasn't sure about that part when I saw that, but it's true!
All in all this book deserves an Ali's Bookshelf
Here at Ali's Bookshelf we accept books in exchange for a honest review. The book above was one that the publisher sent me for review. We also use Amazon Affiliate links at times.
