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.

Warning: Do not listen to My Oxford Year in public. I can’t be responsible for what happens. (But embarrassing ugly crying is a strong possibility…)

I’m a little baffled as to how to write this review. I had a major plot point spoiled for me ahead of time, and I wish I hadn’t known to expect it. So, on the one hand, I don’t want to give spoilers here… on the other hand, it’ll be hard to discuss this book in any meaningful way without it.

But here goes… I’ll give it a try.

(But first, a further note: The content could be upsetting for someone to encounter without forewarning… so I’m going to put content warnings over on my Goodreads review, under a spoiler blur. Check if out here if you want to know.)

24-year-old Ella Durran heads to Oxford on a Rhodes Scholarship, something she’s dreamed of all her life. As her magical, longed-for year kicks off — literally as she’s arriving at Heathrow — she’s also offered a dream job opportunity, working as the education consultant for the woman who stands a good chance of becoming the party nominee for President in the next election. Ella’s future lies in political organizing, and while she’ll be studying literature at Oxford, she also has her eye on what happens after Oxford. Ella’s return ticket is already booked for June 11th of the next spring, and she works out a deal with the campaign: She’ll work remotely while at Oxford, then return next June and commit full-time to the race.

Initially, Ella experiences fish-out-of-water mishaps at Oxford — such as nearly getting run over due to looking the wrong way while crossing the street. The “posh prat” at the wheel ends up being Ella’s literature lecturer, and their unfortunate first meeting leads to attraction, and eventually, a no-strings hook-up plan that’s hot, exciting, and low commitment. It’s good for as long as it’s good, and that — they both agree — will be that.

Meanwhile, Ella also settles in, forms a handful of close friendships, and starts to truly relax into and appreciate her Oxford experience. And as things with Jamie continue to be thrilling, Ella’s having the time of her life.

All is not as perfect as it seems, though… and then Ella’s life (and the book) become more intense and complicated. One of Ella’s go to responses is “It’s a plan” as a form of agreeing or making a commitment, but what happens when life gets in the way of well thought-out plans?

I really can’t say more, but trust me when I say this book packs an emotional punch. There were times when I wanted nothing more than to give Ella a good shake, but her visceral responses to certain challenges, as well as her unwillingness or inability to see what’s right in front of her, feel real and true to life. It makes sense that Ella takes so long to acknowledge what she truly wants, or to recognize that having a plan doesn’t mean that the plan is actually the right course of action. As frustrating as she can be, Ella is a character who clicks precisely because she doesn’t always make perfect decisions or react the way we’d want her to react. She’s definitely flawed, and that helps us root for her.

And what can I say about Jamie? He’s sheer perfection, an absolute cupcake, and I challenge any reader not to be absolutely mad about him.

The larger cast of characters is terrific as well, rounding out Ella’s life in a way that gives her experiences more depth and connection. I loved getting to know the various people in her and Jamie’s lives, and seeing each of their journeys as well.

Author Julia Whelan narrates the audiobook. For any audiobook fans, you’ll know that this means the listening experience will be fabulous. Julia Whelan is the queen of audiobook narration, and hearing her narrate her own book is a chance to be transported into the feel of of the story and utterly absorbed.

My Oxford Year puts the reader through the emotional wringer in a way I hadn’t anticipated (until I was told a spoiler). At first, when I thought I was just reading a book about a year in a rarified academic setting, I didn’t feel entirely engaged. Do I care about stuffy universities and lecture halls and dissection of poetry? (Maybe just a smidge…) But when the more personal aspects of the plot kicked in, I was hooked, heart and soul.

I was a mess by the end of this book, but also uplifted and moved and satisfied. My Oxford Year is lovely and powerful, and should not be missed.

PS – My Oxford Year is coming to Netflix! No information yet on exactly when, but a preliminary casting announcement was recently shared… good stuff!