My Oxford Year: A Novel by Julia Whelan

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

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.

my thoughts:

A light, engaging romance novel about falling in love and following your heart.  I absolutely LOVED My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan.

Ella has always wanted to study at Oxford.  So, when her dream comes true thanks to a Rhodes Scholarship, she's on her way to making her dream a reality.  Plus, she gets offered a job working for a politician who is determined to be the next President.  Talk about achieving one's dreams!  Ella is beyond excited and can't wait to start her new adventure.  Unfortunately, on Ella's first day in England she encounters a man in a shop and winds up having words with him - talk about bad first impressions.  Things only get worse when she finds out that the same man will be teaching her English Lit course at Oxford - what a nightmare! Especially, as the two seem to disagree on everything, thus making their relationship a bit testy.  Of course, this being a romance novel means that their relationship takes a turn for the better.  They develop a deep friendship that truly makes their relationship sweet.

I truly enjoyed getting to know Ella and Jamie.  Their intelligent conversations about philosophy and poetry were fascinating.  Their relationship was refreshing.  And the fact that they are in Oxford makes their story even more fun to read - I just loved imagining wandering around the college and breathing in the fresh English air.  As for Jamie's secret, well, that broke my heart and had me reading even faster to find out what would happen.  I just loved this story to bits!!
   
I would happily recommend My Oxford Year to anyone and everyone looking for their next read - you won't want to miss this one!!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: My Oxford Year

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!