Oxford Whispers (The Oxford Trilogy, # 1)

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Oxford Whispers (The Oxford Trilogy #1)

by Marion Croslydon (Goodreads Author)

3.87 of 5 stars 3.87 · rating details · 97 ratings · 45 reviews

Madison LeBon is dead set against the dead.

Her fresh start at Oxford University is a brand new beginning. She finally has a chance to turn the page on her psychic powers and cumbersome voodoo heritage. Snakes, dolls, ghosts, and spirits: Farewell…

Not quite.

When the tragic lovers in a painting—the subject of her first history class—begin to haunt her, she must accept her g...more

Paperback, 324 pages

Published October 8th 2012 by Carlux Publishing

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Jan 28, 2013 Maja rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: debut-author, failed-to-impress, historical-fiction, i-see-dead-people, magic, review-copy, multiple-povs, totally-saw-that-coming, ya, reviewed-in-2013

I signed up for this tour not knowing a single thing about Oxford Whispers other than its intriguing title and the lovely cover. Usually when I do this, I end up sorely disappointed, but fortunately, there are many things I enjoyed about Marion Croslydon’s debut.

Oxford Whispers focuses partly on Madison’s ability to see and communicate with ghosts as well as her family history and beliefs, and partly on her romance with the young future Earl Rupert Vance. The paranormal parts of this story were...more I signed up for this tour not knowing a single thing about Oxford Whispers other than its intriguing title and the lovely cover. Usually when I do this, I end up sorely disappointed, but fortunately, there are many things I enjoyed about Marion Croslydon’s debut.

Oxford Whispers focuses partly on Madison’s ability to see and communicate with ghosts as well as her family history and beliefs, and partly on her romance with the young future Earl Rupert Vance. The paranormal parts of this story were quite original, which isn’t something I get to write often, and I loved all the jumping between the past and the present.

Unsurprisingly, my favorite thing about Oxford Whispers was the setting. Like our Louisiana girl, Madison, the author spent some time studying in Oxford, and her familiarity with it was evident on every page. Oxford Whispers is not just Madison and Rupert’s love story, or even Sarah and Robert’s, it is the author’s love letter to Oxford, and it’s a lovely one at that. I learned a few things from it, and it thrilled me to find out some new details about such an astonishing place.

It was far easier for me to connect with Madison’s love interest, the young and gorgeous future Earl Rupert Vance, than Madison herself. Yes, he was just a bit too handsome, a bit too rich, a bit too eloquent. His father hated him far too much, his girlfriend Harriet was an evil Barbie doll, his car was extravagant and his friends were mostly rich jerks. For over four years, he carried around a huge guilt, and then he got rid of it in a single night, all because he found the perfect girl. In other words, he was no more than a cliché. But underneath it all, I managed to find some genuine feelings, a character that could potentially become everything I want in a love interest, or even a second main character, judging from the way things are going.

Clichés aside, with the events of the past foreshadowing current ones, there really wasn’t much room for surprise. About 90% of this book was painfully predictable. But then, in the very last part came a shocking revelation, a thing I never would have guessed, which made me both increase my rating and decide to read the next book.

And since I’ve mentioned the next book, it’s supposed to be about the Tudors – who wouldn’t want to read that?! I only hope that the author will flesh out her characters just a little bit better in the next one because, as I already pointed out, they definitely need more work.

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Feb 09, 2013 Sandra Howard rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: cover-love, favorites, first-on-series, magic-witches-warlocks, my-book-boyfriend, new-adult, so-hot

I totally adored this book.
It contained the right mix of everything.
It not only has mystery and suspense but it also just the right of romance in it.

Oxford Whispers is not what I have expected. It over-exceeded my expectations to tell you honestly. I learned from experience that not all fancy covers and intriguing goodreads summary would end up good when you read it. But this book, well it not only has a good cover and a good synopsis. After reading the book, you'll feel that you didn't waste yo...more I totally adored this book.
It contained the right mix of everything.
It not only has mystery and suspense but it also just the right of romance in it.

Oxford Whispers is not what I have expected. It over-exceeded my expectations to tell you honestly. I learned from experience that not all fancy covers and intriguing goodreads summary would end up good when you read it. But this book, well it not only has a good cover and a good synopsis. After reading the book, you'll feel that you didn't waste your time reading it. This book has substance which is why it was definitely worth reading.

Madison LeBon may look like an ordinary girl but she's not. She's from a family that posseses power that will later consume them. Consume them meaning, either they go crazy or kill themselves or whatever bad things that might happen. Knowing this, Madison tried to steer away from that kind of future so moved to Oxford to study history.

Funny thing is, it seems that her heritage didn't really want to let her go. On her history class, she then encounters the painting that will turn her life around. She then gets visions of the woman and the man on the painting. She then realizes that no matter how hard she tries to run away from her destiny, she'll need to face it one way or the other or she might really end up like the other women in her family.

Phew.

This book is a real gem. It is not every day you'll find a book that is this unique. I intially thought it would be somewhat like Darker Still(another one of my favorites) but then after reading more I realized that although both dealt with paintings that was where the similarity stops.

One of the things I loved about this book was the setting. It was very vivid that you could almost feel you are walking with Madison in Oxford. The author made sure that you get the feel of the surrounding.

Another good thing about it is how well the historical aspect of the book has been researched. I loved the fact that such a painting really exist and how believable Ms. Croslydon incorporated the story about Sara and Robert as well as Madison's and Rupert's. It was just so well thought of.

I liked the characters. Madison was a pretty good female lead for me because she knew what she must do. At first, she was afraid but then after some time she realized she can't run away forever. Rupert was the perfectly-imperfect type of male character. You fall in love with him not because he was gorgeous and rich and stuff. You fall in love because he was all that but at the same time he was flawed.

One thing that did bother me was the pacing. I really thought there were times that I wish some parts were just not included but I guess those parts make the book more interesting.

The deal-sealer for this book for me was the twist towards the end. The bad guy was not the one who I was really expecting it to be. I thought it was but damn it surprised me that I was so wrong by a mile!

All in all, it was a fantastic read. It is a must read for New Adult readers or Mature YA-PNR readers. Why? Because there are some scenes not suited for younger YA readers but more for mature-YA or NA readers so just a caution. Also for those who wants a PNR book with a historical twist in it, this book is definitely for you.(less)

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Jan 31, 2013 Avry15 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult, action, reviewed, supernatural

Cover: I lalaLOVE the cover..:).. isn't it gorgeous?
From the blurb, it smells paranormal--and I love all things paranormal

(wonders if this is good)
description

I love this Robert pic..:D

find out my review soon..

Will post the review Jan 30 on my blog Bookshelf Confessions

UPDATED:

The cover's very gorgeous.. I love the girl, the art and the blue. It has an interesting title OXFORD WHISPERS plus the blurb speaks of paranormal and historical, what more can I ask for?!

The plot was well-thought of, interweaving...more

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May 05, 2013 Anna Adams rated it 4 of 5 stars

Very interesting read.

Madison LeBon tried to run away from her voodoo heritage and her life in Louisiana, but to no avail. Her heritage catches up with her in Oxford through a mysterious XIXth century painting by William Shakespeare Burton.The historical and artistic aspects of this novel were thorough, solid, and what I appreciated the most.

The story was an enjoyable read with many twists. The main character is likeable, but not very confident, which is perhaps why I preferred Pippa,even though...more

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Jan 29, 2013 Pam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ebooks-read-in-2013, paranormal-read-in-2013, read-in-2013

This is a very intriguing book. You get a wonderful blend of now and the past and you can tell the author knows the places you visit and has done her research. You actually feel you are in Oxford or even in Louisiana. The author does a fantastic job as well with the way the characters speak. Madison our leading lady has some fantastic lines that I love and are now some of my favorite quotes. The book every now in then does slow down but it doesn't happen often and the rest of the time it stays a...more This is a very intriguing book. You get a wonderful blend of now and the past and you can tell the author knows the places you visit and has done her research. You actually feel you are in Oxford or even in Louisiana. The author does a fantastic job as well with the way the characters speak. Madison our leading lady has some fantastic lines that I love and are now some of my favorite quotes. The book every now in then does slow down but it doesn't happen often and the rest of the time it stays a good pace.

I did enjoy the characters even at times I wanted to smack them. Madison is very smart, has powers she doesn't want and fights her attraction to Rupert. She is a good character and easy to remember. I love the way she talks. Rupert is the sexy guy who even tho you know you shouldn't you want any way. He has a haunting past and doesn't want to let go of it. He also has a snobby girlfriend that his father just loves cause she is from the right kind of family. That is bad considering you can see the chemistry between him and Madison. Sarah,Peter and Robert I will let you read the book to see about them but I do want to mention Pippa Madison's friend. This is the girl I wanted to smack. While she was a friend of Madison she doesn't care one but to sleep with whoever she can and doesn't seem to care what anyone thinks about it. She just got on my nerves but she does add her own flair to the book.

The plot is a great one. A painting intrigues Madison and she must find out more about it. It also seems to trigger her powers to see dead people and she gets sucked into a past love story that seems similar to her own. It also seems to drive a dead person to want to kill her and someone she cares about. She has to figure out the mystery behind the painting and try to stay safe. She is also fighting her attraction to Rupert the whole time and not really wanting to use her powers. Using her powers may be the only choice she has tho. This book combines different times in a way that goes very smoothly and makes it a joy to read. This is a little different paranormal book and a nice change. I will be checking out more of this authors work.(less)

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Dec 27, 2012 Annie rated it 4 of 5 stars

My Rating: 4 stars

My Thoughts:

As a huge fan of both historical British novels and movies, like the works of Jane Austen, and of the paranormal genre, I really enjoyed this book!

Madison is a Yale graduate studying at Oxford University. She is trying to escape her past that was filled with her crazy Louisianan family, voodoo, magic, and spirits. When she sees a painting at the university, the characters in it begin to haunt her. The story of the star-crossed lovers from the painting enters her e...more

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Nov 24, 2012 Georgiana Derwent rated it 4 of 5 stars

As someone who studied at Oxford, the city holds a special place in my heart and is indelibly associated with various loves and lusts, including meeting my fiancé there. I also studied and adore history, especially art history and am a massive fan of paranormal romance. Therefore, a paranormal romance novel set in Oxford and revolving around a nineteenth century painting of a sixteenth century scene was always going to be an easy sell for me.

I was delighted to come across this book and on the w...more

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Feb 02, 2013 Linda rated it 3 of 5 stars

More of a 3.5 star to me. It had moments where it was a little slow and the book took a while to move along, but overall it was an interesting book. I found it interesting because she not only saw ghosts, she was actually dreaming about them and going back in time as part of it. There was a mystery in there that had you wondering who everyone was and if she truly was one of characters. However, a few things were really good and a few things still throw me.

First, I had no idea that Pippa was the...more

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Jan 30, 2013 Ayanami Faerudo rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-read-in-2013

Original post as part of the blog tour. View at Whatever You Can Still Betray.

Truth be told the line Fall in love for the first time...again gave me pause because it confused the hell out of me. How could you fall in love... for the first time... again? But I've always been fascinated with Louisiana and her mystical, voodoo heritage so after putting off reading this, as I warred with myself whether I'll write my term paper or read a book, I settled in for a Saturday afternoon sprawled on the flo...more Original post as part of the blog tour. View at Whatever You Can Still Betray.

Truth be told the line Fall in love for the first time...again gave me pause because it confused the hell out of me. How could you fall in love... for the first time... again? But I've always been fascinated with Louisiana and her mystical, voodoo heritage so after putting off reading this, as I warred with myself whether I'll write my term paper or read a book, I settled in for a Saturday afternoon sprawled on the floor.

Most of the story didn't take place in Louisiana. It took place in Oxford, England where Madison was taking her graduate degree after graduating from Yale. Yes, our girl is smart and eager to escape the abilities she inherited from her grandmother and the dead that came with it. But as she settled into a new chapter of her life, she finds out that she could escape from the spirits... and this time, it's personal.

Madison and Rupert's love story was one of the believable love stories I've read. Although there was an immediate attraction and Madison acknowledged the fact that there was something there, she resisted with all her might since despite Rupert's apparent gorgeousness and the bad boy image all over him (not to mention he's an earl's son), his rakishness, arrogance and altogether rude personality made her turn away from him. See, not all heroine's are going to jump right in and proclaim their undying love to a stranger despite the strong pull of their connection. I was also glad that Rupert and Madison were not flawless, that they did not make excuses for the flaws of the other and worked throughout their issues and acknowledged each other's imperfections.

The story was good and I enjoyed reading it. I liked reading the story of Sarah, Robert and Peter and how it unfolded throughout the story as it was interlaced and placed in the right places in the main story of Rupert and Madison. I also really liked the mystery of The Wounded Cavalier and its connection to the present. One time, I was so sure who Peter was in the present but when he/she nyahaha, I won't tell who Peter was was revealed, it was someone I did not expect.

And now, I await for Oxford Shadows to take me to the bayou.
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Dec 11, 2012 Jen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 4-up-all-night-review, ebooks-i-own, pnr, coming-of-age

I've never been a Big History fan - But after finishing off this book, I'm tempted to go pull out my genealogy papers and start off where my aunts have left off :)

Wow! Ok this book is not a typical PNR book - It has a really good mystery and thriller added in here. And I thought I had it all figured out, then BAM! I was wrong!

Great story! Madison is a Yale graduate, and is attending Oxford to continue her love for history. Her family is from New Orleans. But her family isn't normal. All the Fe...more

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Jan 22, 2013 Andrea C. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ghosts, romance, paranormal, own

I love when present day characters have to solve mysteries of the past. While the story of Peter, Sarah, and Robert wasn't a mystery, per se, our present day characters had to figure out what happened because there wasn't an exact record. The who-did-it was pretty obvious, to me anyway, but I liked uncovering then when and the why aspects.

I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the Madison and Rupert romance. I wanted them together, yes, but it was a subtle longing. More like a "oh good" than a "...more I love when present day characters have to solve mysteries of the past. While the story of Peter, Sarah, and Robert wasn't a mystery, per se, our present day characters had to figure out what happened because there wasn't an exact record. The who-did-it was pretty obvious, to me anyway, but I liked uncovering then when and the why aspects.

I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the Madison and Rupert romance. I wanted them together, yes, but it was a subtle longing. More like a "oh good" than a "you get get her!" thing. Part of me feels like to they were forced together by the author and then made it work. Kind of like an arranged marriage. The parents tell the children they will marry each other and down the road the newlyweds eventually fall in love with one another. Also, the first time the were intimate with each other (I use intimate because their underwear stayed on), was kind of weird. It was...odd. But I'm not a 22-year-old virgin who has an issue with the undead, so who am I to judge?

I liked the plot and I was definitely hooked by what was going to happen. I could NOT figure out who Peter was and that was great. I would constantly go back and forth between this character and the next. Sometimes I would think "It's so obviously so-and-so" and then something else would happen and "Oh, it's not so-and-so, it's blah-blah!" And then, "Nope, it's that-one. Definitely that-one" and I'd be right back to so-and-so." I love when an author does this. I hate knowing right away who the villain is when it's supposed to be a mystery. It's much more fun to play the guessing game.

I enjoyed the fact that Croslydon would time jump between the present to the 1650s with Sarah, Robert, and Peter. As readers we just weren't finding out the knowledge through Madison, but through the past itself. Personally, it lends a lot more to reading experience getting to see these things than being told them third-party through another character. I also like that "The Wounded Cavailer" by William Shakespeare Burton is a real picture. It makes the plot a lot more interesting when fiction and non-fiction combine in such a way.

Bottom Line
Read this book. It kept me interested and I couldn't wait to get home from work to continue on with Madison's story. I looking forward to reading Oxford Whispers, due out May 6, 2013. Not just because I get to revisit the characters themselves, but hopefully Madison will have accepted her lot in life and learned to work with it rather than against it. Also, it has to do with the Tudors and I love my some royal scandal - especially when Henry VIII is involved.(less)

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Jan 03, 2013 Justine rated it 4 of 5 stars

I write reviews for Appraising Pages, check us out for all things bookish! http://www.appraisingpages.com
Review:
This was definitely a genre that I don’t normally read and I have to start with how much I enjoyed it. Since I don’t usually read historical anything, I was hesitant to try it, but the overall premise of the book interested me enough to check it out. Well, after finishing Oxford Whispers, I’m certainly interested in more historical books if they are anything like this one.
The character...more I write reviews for Appraising Pages, check us out for all things bookish! http://www.appraisingpages.com
Review:
This was definitely a genre that I don’t normally read and I have to start with how much I enjoyed it. Since I don’t usually read historical anything, I was hesitant to try it, but the overall premise of the book interested me enough to check it out. Well, after finishing Oxford Whispers, I’m certainly interested in more historical books if they are anything like this one.
The characters had strong root, they had a lot of depth, and I enjoyed the journey of getting to know them. Madison has a wonky background and she is really just trying to escape her heritage by ignoring the visions she is having. Madison comes from a family that has a background of being driven crazy because of their visions. I loved this about her, because I feel like everyone has that slight fear of turning into a crazy older relative. I was able to connect with her really well because she felt like someone I could easily become friends with. The relationship between Madison and Rupert simmers awhile before it becomes full blown and that made it so much more interesting. I have said it before and will say it again, I have a hard time believing in a romance that is love at first sight. I love the adventure of falling in love and I like when a story focuses on the climb rather than the view at the top.
The paranormal aspect of the book was perfectly realistic. I love a good paranormal romance that takes place in our world, the idea that strange happenings are going on all around us is very intriguing. I found my-self scared and excited as if I was Madison and things were happening to me.
I would recommend this book to people who like: romance, paranormal romance, historical fiction, good books, and better books.
This is the start of the Oxford Trilogy, with the second book named Oxford Shadows. The trailer and cover reveal will be on January 7, 2013. So now is a great time to get started with Oxford Whispers so you are ready for the continuation of the trilogy!(less)

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May 13, 2013 Tammi rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: received-for-review

How would you react if your family has history of going crazy from interacting with ghosts? That is the history of Madison LeBon. She has always tried to stay away from this; distancing herself from what has troubled her family. That is why she went to Yale and then to Oxford University in England. Up until then, she has had a few interactions with ghosts. When she got to England, she made friends in Ollie and Pippa, who introduces her to Rupert.

At first glance, Madison is turned off by Rupert b...more How would you react if your family has history of going crazy from interacting with ghosts? That is the history of Madison LeBon. She has always tried to stay away from this; distancing herself from what has troubled her family. That is why she went to Yale and then to Oxford University in England. Up until then, she has had a few interactions with ghosts. When she got to England, she made friends in Ollie and Pippa, who introduces her to Rupert.

At first glance, Madison is turned off by Rupert because of his playboy ways. She avoids him when he talks to her. This works until Jackson McCain, her tutor and boss, pairs them up for study partners. This job with Jackson is helping her to figure out what is happening in Oxford. She is drawn to this painting, The Wounded Cavalier by William Shakespeare Burton and to the characters of Sarah, Robert Dallembert and Peter Perkins. Even though she is seeing visions of Sarah and what happened in her time, it isn’t until the warning that “Peter will kill you” that she takes it seriously. What happened between Sarah, Robert and Peter? Will Madison stay to her initial feelings toward Rupert? Is Madison in danger?

At first this book was a little difficult to get into the rhythm of it. It would switch between Madison’s and Sarah’s time. Once I got reading a little, it got better. I liked how Madison didn’t want to accept her heritage and the gifts that her family had. It’s difficult to be different and Madison had seen the repercussions of this first hand. I also liked that she didn’t like the jock right away, or she didn’t want to admit to anyone that she did. Madison didn’t want to trust anyone with her secret in fear that they would shy away from her.

Rupert had his own struggles. He struggled with his father. He said his father couldn’t stand him. They constantly butted heads. He struggled with the grief of losing his mother; then to have this “American Girl” come in and throw him for a loop. I liked that Rupert wasn’t perfect and he never pretended to be.

This people that “haunted” (I use that term loosely) Madison were centered on a painting. I love art and that made me like this book even more. After reading the synopsis for Oxford Shadows and discovering it was centered on music, I think that would enjoy that book also.
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Feb 02, 2013 Joy (joyous reads) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review

Southern beauty, Madison LeBon has always known that there's something different about her. But things amped to a whole new level of weirdness when she's haunted by a love tragedy depicted in a painting. Suddenly, her dreams are plagued by occurrence of the past, and visions during her waking hours. Not only that, she's also being stalked by ghosts who either wants something from her or wants her dead altogether. The only way she could silence the restless spirits is to dig through the history a...more Southern beauty, Madison LeBon has always known that there's something different about her. But things amped to a whole new level of weirdness when she's haunted by a love tragedy depicted in a painting. Suddenly, her dreams are plagued by occurrence of the past, and visions during her waking hours. Not only that, she's also being stalked by ghosts who either wants something from her or wants her dead altogether. The only way she could silence the restless spirits is to dig through the history and find a way to defeat a scorned lover from the past or the new love she'd recently found in Rupert Vance may suffer the same fate.

Part Historical, part Contemporary, Oxford Whispers combined Romance and Paranormal to create a riveting story of recurring past loves and vengeance. Penned with two points of views, readers will be treated to Madison's practical and romantic musings and Rupert's sometimes obnoxious, wholly arrogant but completely seductive view of Madison and his world in general. Though Rupert may come across as a petulant, spoiled rich boy, he hides his real desire to be forgiven and accepted by his own father.

I enjoyed the dynamics of their relationship and thought that the progression was appropriately timed. I must admit that not having any prior knowledge of what the book was about, I assumed it's geared toward YA audience. This assumption was totally eradicated when we got to the intimate parts. It was entirely too descriptive and frank to be written for the young crowd. This is not a complaint, by any stretch. In fact, I was happy that for once I was reading something age-appropriate.

A couple of grievances with this book: one had to do with the switching time periods. While I know it is a major component of the plot, I think it took away some of the mystique of Madison's relation to the past. Sometimes, it also wasn't done in a seamless fashion that it made for a bumpy read. I also felt that she didn't feel any hesitation to share every single paranormal things that's been happening to her, including her ability to shoot a ball of fire or telekinesis. I mean, some people wouldn't just blurt that out in the open but not Madison. In fact, she didn't hesitate at all when she came right out in the open to her adviser. I get that he'd helped her settle in on a foreign land but I didn't get the complete confidence she'd entrusted on him.

Otherwise, the book is a novelty among reincarnation and ghostly reads. I do so love English boys and books set in England and the author showed great knowledge of Oxford and its prestigious history. Overall, an enjoyable read and a series worth watching for.(less)

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Oct 23, 2012 Marissa rated it 4 of 5 stars

This was a very good debut novel, and a great New Adult Romance! First of all, the writing style throughout, was consistent and just flowed nicely. The story itself was greatly creative and I just got caught between the history and romance. Those were two components that to me, were intriguing, as I enjoy history, historical fiction, and this just has a good balance of the past, the historical part, and the present, a college setting at Oxford. I first like, how this story partially surrounds a...more

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Feb 03, 2013 Cindy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: sweet-romance, own, book-series

This and other reviews can be found on my blog @ http://bookaholicfaggots.blogspot.com

First, I want to thank Marion Croslydon very, very much for providing this book for me to read, because guess what? I love this book! I love all the history facts and how this whole creative, love story was created from just a painting!! ;) <333

The Characters/Plot:
So basically, there are 2 main characters, but 3 more important characters in this book. The teaser on the back talked about all 5 of them, but i...more

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Jan 21, 2013 Kari rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, debut-2012-authors

**3 Stars**
I received a copy of this book for an honest review as part of a blog tour.

MY OVERVIEW: While I really did enjoy the story, I feel that it needed just a little more editing. It was rough in parts and the beginning seemed like it skipped scenes that should have been in there.

PROS: So, I really thought that I knew who Peter was and was just like “oh, just out with it”… but then… surprise! Betcha didn’t see that coming! It was a twist that I really didn’t expect and I love it when that...more

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Mar 06, 2013 Shelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviews-requested

I really enjoyed this book and I am really looking forward to the next installment. The story takes place at Oxford University and because of that it reminded me a lot of the All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness. For me, this book had all the elements of a really good story, magic, ghosts, mystery and love.

I really liked the main characters and I felt like they were well developed and had really nice back stories. Madison is a smart girl who is furthering her education by attending Oxford Univ...more I really enjoyed this book and I am really looking forward to the next installment. The story takes place at Oxford University and because of that it reminded me a lot of the All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness. For me, this book had all the elements of a really good story, magic, ghosts, mystery and love.

I really liked the main characters and I felt like they were well developed and had really nice back stories. Madison is a smart girl who is furthering her education by attending Oxford University. She is a Louisiana girl who's family has roots in voodoo. She is trying to get away from all that, but it seems that her "gift" is with her no mater how far away from her family she gets. Madison feels a connection to a painting they are studying in a history class and when she starts seeing a ghost named Sarah she is convinced that Sarah is the woman from the painting. Madison feels that Sarah is reaching out to her because they share some kind of connection.

Things get more complicated when Madison meets Rupert. She is drawn to him immediately, but attempts to keep him at arm length because he has a girlfriend. This proves harder when they are forced to work together as research assistants for their history professor. They fall in love as they begin to unravel the mystery of the painting and discover how they are each connected to it.

Madison and Rupert each keep secrets from each other throughout the course of the story and because of this he doesn't know the true danger that she is in. She just doesn't want him to think she's crazy. Rupert has an easier time confiding in Madison, though.

I felt like the pacing of the story was right on, I never felt like there was a lull as I was reading. The reveal of the "bad guy" at the end was a complete surprise to me. I was pretty convinced that I knew who it was and I was SO wrong! I like that while this is the start of a series, this particular story is over. There was no cliffhanger, it was all nicely wrapped up in the end. I like that while this story is done, Madison and Rupert have a relationship that is still growing and I am anxious to see what the next installment brings their way. (less)

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Jan 17, 2013 Angie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: oxford-trilogy

Be sure to check out this and other reviews at http://Twinsietalk.blogspot.com or www.facebook.com/twinsietalk

I was given this book for an honest review for the blog tour we are on.

I was pretty excited to receive this book because I am a huge paranormal reader. I generally read just vampires but thought a ghost book would be a cool step outta my regular reading. I was really excited to give it a try. With all that said, I don't even know where to begin. This book was a bit of a challenge for me...more

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Dec 26, 2012 Mary rated it 4 of 5 stars

I would like to thank the author, Marion Croslydon, for the book to review.

Best part of the book: This was not your typical psychic/ghost/spirits story. It was dubbed "Sookie Stackhouse goes Ivy League" and it was like that, to a point. Although there was no Eric Northman, there was Rupert! Even thought I thought at first he was just going to be a "player" to Madison, he actually needed up to be quiet different. I enjoyed how a painting and the characters in there was the main theme of the story...more

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Jan 04, 2013 Kristina rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-egalley-for-review

I love stories where characters from today’s time period have to solve mysteries from the past, which is why I was very excited to review Oxford Whispers. Characters in a painting are haunting the main character! I knew this book would be for me. While I did enjoy a lot of aspects to this novel, other parts fell flat for me.

Madison comes from a Louisiana family where the females have all gone crazy because they have the power to associate with the dead. When she leaves all that behind to go to c...more

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Jan 16, 2013 Krystal rated it 4 of 5 stars

Oxford Whispers does a wonderful job of blending a two-part story-line into a compelling easy to follow novel. While one story-line focuses on Madison and her ability to see and communicate with the dead, the other focuses on her budding romance with Rupert Vance, a wealthy future Earl, both story-lines compliment each other, bringing the reader in and engaging them until the surprising ending.

I loved the constant changing of the times from the ghosts of Sarah, Peter and Robert, to present day S...more

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Jan 30, 2013 Just My Opinion rated it 4 of 5 stars

“I am haunted by the historical figures which come to life and the love endured across time and space….”

I was given a copy of this novel by the author and I will be forever grateful she asked for my review. Oxford Whispers was an incredibly well researched and thought out debut novel. It is steeped in historical figures, places and stories. I loved the paranormal aspect and how it crosses over into reality in such a seamless fashion.

The main character, Madison, is such a complex character it wi...more “I am haunted by the historical figures which come to life and the love endured across time and space….”

I was given a copy of this novel by the author and I will be forever grateful she asked for my review. Oxford Whispers was an incredibly well researched and thought out debut novel. It is steeped in historical figures, places and stories. I loved the paranormal aspect and how it crosses over into reality in such a seamless fashion.

The main character, Madison, is such a complex character it will take you the entire novel to fully understand her-yet you will immediately connect with her from the start. She is blessed/cursed with certain gifts which result in her falling into a labyrinth of historical events and consequences. She will find love, lose love, find herself, then lose herself and all within the safety of her incredible supporting cast. The intrigue of the story will keep you guessing right up until the very end. Watching this character develop and grow during this tale was exquisite. She has a deep backstory which is quickly described and fleshed out and contributes to understanding who she is at any moment within the story.

Rupert is sensational. He is incredibly complex on his own and his backstory is filled with noble blood, heritage and the consequences of his ancestors. The way he and Madison play off of one another throughout is fantastically written and will give you such an appreciation for how each character brings out the best in the other. This is a fated tale in so many ways and a past love story that MUST play itself out in this realm to finally find peace and acceptance. I love that Rupert is as strong as he is and doesn’t bow to his heritage as so many of the nobility have in the past.

The story is incredibly well defined right from the start. Ms. Croslydon is thorough in her research and you can actually feel yourself at Oxford and in London with the bitter winds whipping at your face. The depictions were so well done, I was actually reading this story under a blanket and wishing for some hot cocoa to warm me up. The deceptions are realistic and never overdone while the paranormal aspect is never detracting from the main plotline. Although, I guess you could argue that the paranormal aspect really IS the main plotline-but you’ll have to read the book to understand that. I must admit, having never been to London and not knowing anything about her New Orleans heritage, at times I felt myself very confused with words and places I didn’t understand. I’m guessing if you’ve been to England, or if you have an understanding of New Orleans voodoo, you might not find yourself as confused as I was. While the plot descriptions were fantastic, I felt the descriptions of the buildings and towns a bit lacking. I didn’t FEEL myself in the towns the way I FELT the feelings of each character. While overwhelming at times, it still didn’t detract from my overall feeling of the story.

This was a great romance filled with plenty of suspense and intrigue, laughter, a great cast, fantastic historical references yet not heavy on the sexual scenes which kept the romance at just the right level for the overall tale. I love that this is based on a story which took place centuries ago, yet plays itself out to its conclusion once Madison comes to Oxford. Wonderful premise and lots of promise for a follow up book! Brilliant read Ms. Croslydon and I am anxious for the next installment.

+ Very well developed characters including a sensational supporting cast

+ The premise of an “old” story coming back to life is brilliant

+ None of the features of the book were overwhelming, allowing you to love characters and story equally

- The references to Madison’s culture were very confusing for me

- At times, I wasn’t exactly sure where in England I was and why

??? Where will the follow-up books in the trilogy take us and will all the characters survive the journey ???(less)

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Nov 30, 2012 Marti rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, historical-fiction, romance

I must admit that this is a book I enjoyed almost from the moment and liked it even more as the story progressed. I enjoy books with strong female lead characters and Madison filled that bill quite nicely. She had strength of character, intelligence, drive, and just enough vulnerability. The love interest, Rupert Vance, whom she first tagged as "earl boy" was likeable as well. He was far from perfect but turned out to have quite a lot of strength of character. There was enough paranormal activit...more

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Feb 02, 2013 Helena Ison rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, my-all-time-favorites

This is only a part of my review... to see my full review please head over to my blog: http://icanonlybehele3.blogspot.com/2...

I loved everything about Oxford Whispers! I felt an instant connection to this book! It has a bit of something for everyone; a love story with a historic background interlaced with paranormal, voodoo, suspense, revenge, and art elements. I mean come on… what more could you want?! It also has a few steamy sexual scenes for added pleasure. =-P

Madison LeBon and Rupert Vanc...more

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Oct 29, 2012 Jackie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Marion Croslydon’s Oxford Whispers is a phenomenal first book in her trilogy. The story was well-developed and flowed very well. She was even able to jump from the past to the present multiple times without it becoming difficult to follow the story. The love story between Madison and Rupert was lovely. I enjoyed the connection the two of them had and how they affected each other. The echo of their relationship and Sarah and Roberts was done to perfection. This was one of only a few books that st...more

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Oct 07, 2012 Juliette Sobanet rated it 5 of 5 stars

What a fun debut novel by an amazingly talented new author! Oxford Whispers tells the story of an intelligent young woman who is trying to swear off her past, but as the author so brilliantly reminds us, your past will always catch up with you. I absolutely loved the way the story immerses us in the world of beautiful Oxford, while also bringing to life the vivid story of the star-crossed lovers in the painting. It is the collision of these two worlds, the mystery that follows, and the sweet rom...more

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Feb 06, 2013 Joanna (J.F.Penn) rated it 4 of 5 stars

A painting of a wounded Cavalier is the inspiration for this book and the story weaves itself between 17th century England and modern day Oxford, where student Madison LeBon finds herself entwined in a lover's tragic tale. With supernatural abilities inherited from her voodoo family, Madison has to battle with the intrusions of the past into her Oxford world and her own passion for a new love.
I loved reading about Oxford and Croslydon skillfully intertwines the past and present. Fans of Deborah...more

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Oct 09, 2012 Carrie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: book-review-tour, paranormal, romance

Madison LeBon has spent her life trying to be something other than what she is. Her fear of her family’s voodoo curse and psychic abilities makes her decide to isolate herself from anyone. If she doesn’t have friends, no one will ever learn about her crazy family and her own weird abilities. As a result, she is sheltered, innocent, and still a virgin at the age of 21.

When she earns a place at Oxford to complete her Master’s, Madison takes a chance and becomes closer to a few people assuming the...more Madison LeBon has spent her life trying to be something other than what she is. Her fear of her family’s voodoo curse and psychic abilities makes her decide to isolate herself from anyone. If she doesn’t have friends, no one will ever learn about her crazy family and her own weird abilities. As a result, she is sheltered, innocent, and still a virgin at the age of 21.

When she earns a place at Oxford to complete her Master’s, Madison takes a chance and becomes closer to a few people assuming the distance will protect her. Unfortunately her ancestors resided in Oxford and their lingering influences send Madison into a tailspin of paranormal activities. She discovers a pair of individuals in a well known painting is based on people who are part of her ancestral line and that their story is still unfinished. Entwined with their own history is the vindictive spirit bound and determined to punish them for their “crimes”. This spirit latches onto Madison and sees her as her ancestor, Sarah and as such she must be killed. Madison must unravel the secrets of her past and that of the figures in the painting to stop the vengeful spirit.

I liked Madison. She had a spunkiness to her that I felt showed her personal strength. As a relative innocent to romantic relationships she is immediately smitten with Rupert Vance or Earl Boy as she likes to call him, but doesn’t want to succumb to the attraction. His attitude and behavior turns her off but their ancestral connection keeps bringing them together. Madison is constantly battling her heart and her brain when it comes to Rupert. She wants to believe he cares for her but his actions consistently demonstrate otherwise.

I was not a fan of Rupert Vance the entire book. I wanted to like him. Rich, good looking, intelligent…what’s not to like? But his childish behavior and constant battles to find his father’s approval made him weak and annoying. I hated how he treated Madison. In his efforts to “protect her” from his horrible family and the expectations that went along with it, he was no better than his arrogant ass of a father. The revelation of his own personal demons and guilt over a tragic event in his past redeemed him somewhat but I’m not sure I want to see Madison and Rupert continue as a couple in the next book unless his attitudes adjust.

The story overall was engaging. Croslydon wove together bits of history with her own fictional events quite well. There were layers upon layers of intrigue and secrets and as each bit was uncovered it made me want to keep turning the page. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.(less)

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May 15, 2013 Raina {The LUV'NV} rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: new-adult, paranormal-romance

Actual Rating: 4.5 stars

Oxford Whispers took me completely by surprise. It's an amazing mixture of romance, history, "who dun it" and "who goes there" mystery, and supernatural elements.

Madison LeBon is running from a familial legacy of voodoo, but getting as far away from it as possible only has her running headlong into it. By going to Oxford, she thought she was putting Louisiana and the association of magic behind her, escaping a past that wasn't hers and a future she didn't want. Little...more

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About Marion Croslydon

Marion’s parents are terribly disappointed with her…

They wanted her to have a serious job, providing financial stability and social standing. For years, she really tried to make them happy; she studied hard, got into top schools, graduated with honors and found a high-achieving job… For everyone around her—friends, family and arch-enemies alike—Marion was the typical Type-A personality.

What they...more

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“Their eyes locked.
They could see into each other's souls. This was why she had been born.” — 4 people liked it

“Their eyes locked.
They could see into each other's souls. This was why she had been bored.” — 0 people liked it

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Oxford Whispers (The Oxford Trilogy #1)

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