This book was sent to Traveling With T for review consideration.

My Oxford Year

Summary: 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.

 

Traveling With T’s Thoughts:

 

While the cover would lead you to believe this to be a light and breezy read (and it is at times) Julia Whelan also packs an emotional punch as Ella learns about far more than she had anticipated at Oxford.

 

What I liked:

The chemistry between Ella and Jamie. Scorching. Sizzling. HOT.

Ella’s Oxford friends.

The depth to this book. I anticipated Jamie’s life-changing secret- but was not prepared for how much depth Julia was going to give her characters as they struggle to define what life was going to be like for them, what the future was going to hold.

 

Bottom line: While not  as poignant as books like Me Before You- there is a JoJo Moyes quality in Julia’s writing that I did enjoy.  Julia Whelan is def going to be an author to watch!

 

*This book was sent to Traveling With T for review consideration. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone.*

 

Giveaway:

Thanks to William Morrow, I have 1 paperback copy of My Oxford Year for a US/CA person. Check the Rafflecopter for how to enter. Rules & Fine Print: Open to US/CA only. This contest is void where prohibited. This contest is in no way sponsored by Rafflecopter, Amazon  or my  social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter). No purchase necessary to win. Winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter’s randomized program. Winner will be emailed for their mailing address  publisher (William Morrow) will send book directly to them.  The giveaway ends May 24th  at 11:59pm. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

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*Have you added My Oxford Year to your TBR list?*

 

 

Happy Reading and Bookishly Yours,

T @ Traveling With T