OCD?
I certainly never imaged that a book focused on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder could be so entertaining - and how much information about anxiety disorders in general could be woven into something that wasn't dry or scholarly. I was rooting for Gloria all the way. You might too!
Rated of 5
by Jill S. (Eagle, ID)
Oxford Messed Up
I will admit, it took awhile to get into this book. But don't put this book down. The story really begins once Gloria lands in London. Despite the characters flaws, it's an engaging story. Readers can't help but root for Gloria and Henry. This book will have a number of topics for any book group.
Rated of 5
by Pepper E. (Lawrenceville, NJ)
Not messed up at all
Oxford Messed Up is the story of two highly original characters destined to be together. I enjoyed the unique personality of Gloria, who attempts to rise above OCD; and Henry, trying to overcome the chains of remorse from a demonized past. They share a bathroom (loomates) and a devotion to Van Morrison. They believe in each other when paralyzed by their own self-doubt. Add in a supporting cast of wonderful family members with issues and quirks to spare, all set in Oxford's beautiful campuses.
I enjoyed having a glimpse into the challenges faced by someone with OCD. Anyone looking for a sensitive love story with unique characters would enjoy this debut novel—I know I will look for Andrea Kayne Kaufman again!
Rated of 5
by Cindy (Bryan, Texas)
Unusual and Fascinating
At first I was not certain this book was for me; the first few chapters dragged, and the two main characters showed little personality. But Kaufman was being clever, for when Henry and Gloria finally meet in Oxford it reminded me of the first time I saw The Wizard of Oz film go from black/ white to color. Oxford is like Oz. The narrative comes to life here, and we see the witty and delightful sides of H and G. Unfortunately, the climax felt rushed and unrealistic. After a secret had been revealed, I thought the characters were far enough along in their healing to cope; but the reactions of both characters were so primal and intense that I expected any resolution to be far more drawn out and complicated.
Rated of 5
by Kathy P. (Saratoga, CA)
Oxford Messed Up
A passing thought in early pages was that it was the printer who messed up by publishing this book. That's a joke, but it does start very slowly. The first really interesting thing doesn't happen until the end of Chapter 9! Despite an initial confusion, Kaufman's book is woven cleverly on many levels, and fully comes to life through Gloria and Henry's remarkable friendship in Oxford.
Rated of 5
by Debbie M. (grand junction, CO)
Oxford Messed Up
Oxford Messed Up is about two people with secrets, learning to trust each other. The sharing of a bathroom brings them together. The book had a good story line, but the author seemed to just skim the surface. The characters had serious issues that could have been looked at in depth. Their relationship moved too fast, making it seem unreal.
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of 5
by Deb Y. (Blanco, TX)
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