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Southern Hearts #1
Leaving Oxford
Leaving Oxford: Christian Fiction~Faith, Humor, Romance, Southern Style
Escaping home to Oxford, Mississippi, seemed like a good idea. Until it wasn’t.
A year after a tragic accident in Los Angeles flipped her world upside down, advertising guru Sarah Beth LeClair is still hiding away in her charming hometown of Oxford, Mississippi. And she may well be stuck there forever. Suffering from panic attacks, she prays for healing. Instead, her answer comes in the form of an arrogant football coach and an ugly puppy.
Former celebrity college quarterback Jess McCoy dreamed of playing pro football. One freak hit destroyed his chances. Although he enjoys his work as the university’s offensive coordinator, his aspirations have shifted to coaching at the highest level. His plans of moving up are finally coming together—until he falls for a woman who won’t leave town.
As the deadline for Jess’s decision on his dream career looms, the bars around Sarah Beth’s heart only grow stronger. But it's time to make a decision about leaving Oxford.
Praise for Leaving Oxford
"Southern humor and charm shine through in Leaving Oxford, with characters you'll feel like you've always known and a theme eternally relevant." - Misty M. Beller, Christian historical romance author.
Escaping home to Oxford, Mississippi, seemed like a good idea. Until it wasn’t.
A year after a tragic accident in Los Angeles flipped her world upside down, advertising guru Sarah Beth LeClair is still hiding away in her charming hometown of Oxford, Mississippi. And she may well be stuck there forever. Suffering from panic attacks, she prays for healing. Instead, her answer comes in the form of an arrogant football coach and an ugly puppy.
Former celebrity college quarterback Jess McCoy dreamed of playing pro football. One freak hit destroyed his chances. Although he enjoys his work as the university’s offensive coordinator, his aspirations have shifted to coaching at the highest level. His plans of moving up are finally coming together—until he falls for a woman who won’t leave town.
As the deadline for Jess’s decision on his dream career looms, the bars around Sarah Beth’s heart only grow stronger. But it's time to make a decision about leaving Oxford.
Praise for Leaving Oxford
"Southern humor and charm shine through in Leaving Oxford, with characters you'll feel like you've always known and a theme eternally relevant." - Misty M. Beller, Christian historical romance author.
353 pages, ebook
First published April 15, 2016
1650 people are currently reading
1310 people want to read
About the author
Janet W. Ferguson
15 books535 followersJanet W. Ferguson is a Christy Award finalist and the winner of the 2020 FHL Readers Choice Award. An avid reader and former librarian, she turned her love of story into writing contemporary faith-filled novels with realistic characters who feel like best friends. You’ll laugh and cry as the quirky heroes and heroines chase their happily ever after.
Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
She loves to hear from readers! You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or subscribe to her newsletter on https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com/ for exclusive book news and giveaways.
She also contributes at Inspy Romance once a month. Check out the authors and prizes!
Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
She loves to hear from readers! You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or subscribe to her newsletter on https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com/ for exclusive book news and giveaways.
She also contributes at Inspy Romance once a month. Check out the authors and prizes!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
January 8, 2022
I rated this book five stars because I loved it and it felt personal to me. For me, it's so much more than just the story line. First, I'll start with the plot, it felt fresh, not your typical contemporary Christian romance. The main characters had major "worldly" issues that a lot of CF tends to stay away from, (that may just be how I see it). The characters are really well drawn. Sara Beth and Jess are the main characters. Loved them both. I liked that while Sara Beth had anxiety it wasn't in every, single chapter. She dealt with it but it didn't consume the plot. There was a lot going on but it was not hard to follow. There are a lot of characters too. I liked the southern dialog. It's much more natural than some of the other books I've read set in the South. The SEC, Alabama and Ole Miss mentions are fun. The spiritual insights are beautifully done. I liked the romance. I wanted to hurry it along at times but I think the author paced it perfectly. The title and cover are also perfect for this novel. I loved the ending and I'm sure after posting this review I'll think of more I wanted to say. I hope the next book is just as good. I know its about Dylan, and I enjoyed him. (finger's crossed)
July 13, 2016
Janet Ferguson’s novel Leaving Oxford is sweetly southern with characters who feel like friends and a plot that immediately engages. As Sarah Beth’s story is revealed by layers, you not only see her; you also see the grace of God.
Sarah Beth LeClair is honest and compelling but also just plain adorable. Jess McCoy is just plain hot. And Gingie the dog is an adorably hot mess. And I can’t forget to mention precocious little Katie with her sassy southern drawl. Or her hunky widowed dad Nick. Or Jill. Or a host of other characters that march through the story and leave you smiling in their wake. A few may leave you in tears, too.
Janet Ferguson creates a setting so vivid that you will feel the Mississippi humidity draping over you as you read, and even the staunchest Yankee may develop a bit of a southern drawl by the time you’ve finished Leaving Oxford. The romance between Jess and Sarah Beth is one of those delicious slow-burn kind that has you craving that first kiss almost as much as they do! Cute humor, sweet friendships, and a meaningful message elevate Leaving Oxford beyond a simple romance, and the characters guarantee that you go one-click the next book Going Up South as soon as you finish this one. (Side note: I thought, as I was reading Leaving Oxford, that I knew who Going Up South would be about. I was almost completely wrong LOL. But it turned out better than I anticipated, so I’m okay with that! ) There is a lot of “church speak”, which in the South is common vocabulary anyway lol – and some moments where I felt the story took a break for a sermon or two – but it didn’t really detract from my overall enjoyment of the novel.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
See my full review on Reading Is My SuperPower
Sarah Beth LeClair is honest and compelling but also just plain adorable. Jess McCoy is just plain hot. And Gingie the dog is an adorably hot mess. And I can’t forget to mention precocious little Katie with her sassy southern drawl. Or her hunky widowed dad Nick. Or Jill. Or a host of other characters that march through the story and leave you smiling in their wake. A few may leave you in tears, too.
Janet Ferguson creates a setting so vivid that you will feel the Mississippi humidity draping over you as you read, and even the staunchest Yankee may develop a bit of a southern drawl by the time you’ve finished Leaving Oxford. The romance between Jess and Sarah Beth is one of those delicious slow-burn kind that has you craving that first kiss almost as much as they do! Cute humor, sweet friendships, and a meaningful message elevate Leaving Oxford beyond a simple romance, and the characters guarantee that you go one-click the next book Going Up South as soon as you finish this one. (Side note: I thought, as I was reading Leaving Oxford, that I knew who Going Up South would be about. I was almost completely wrong LOL. But it turned out better than I anticipated, so I’m okay with that! ) There is a lot of “church speak”, which in the South is common vocabulary anyway lol – and some moments where I felt the story took a break for a sermon or two – but it didn’t really detract from my overall enjoyment of the novel.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
See my full review on Reading Is My SuperPower
October 2, 2022
Panic attacks and anxiety vs the power of love
Love wins of course. Always. But the poor heroine suffered so much after an accident had taken her boyfriend and she was driving. She was a pretty great heroine in spite of that and her belief in God kept her trying to get better. She meets Jess and inspires him to be a better man. There is an OW from the past that seduced him when he was 17 and was truly vile but she is only mentioned a few times and he never touched her again after the night he decided to be better in his life, and started to pursue Sarah. There is also a selfish, narcissistic actor with deplorable morals that is chasing after the heroine. He sleeps around and had a one night stand with the heroines assistant and the next book is about him and his secret baby but I don't see how he can be redeemed but God can work miracles right. This is a Christian book but it did include the situations mentioned above, but there are no intimate scenes or anything. And the hero and heroine are really good people and make a delightful couple as they fall in love. Its a good book but just okay. Its free in KU and part of a series.
Love wins of course. Always. But the poor heroine suffered so much after an accident had taken her boyfriend and she was driving. She was a pretty great heroine in spite of that and her belief in God kept her trying to get better. She meets Jess and inspires him to be a better man. There is an OW from the past that seduced him when he was 17 and was truly vile but she is only mentioned a few times and he never touched her again after the night he decided to be better in his life, and started to pursue Sarah. There is also a selfish, narcissistic actor with deplorable morals that is chasing after the heroine. He sleeps around and had a one night stand with the heroines assistant and the next book is about him and his secret baby but I don't see how he can be redeemed but God can work miracles right. This is a Christian book but it did include the situations mentioned above, but there are no intimate scenes or anything. And the hero and heroine are really good people and make a delightful couple as they fall in love. Its a good book but just okay. Its free in KU and part of a series.
January 6, 2018
Listening to the audio production of Leaving Oxford was an absolute delight! I have read the third book in the series, and loved it, so I was excited to return to the setting of Oxford, Mississippi by beginning with the first novel.
This story was so well written. I really appreciated the author’s use of flashbacks, so that I could truly understand Sarah Beth’s situation. It made me deeply care for this character and hope for a happily ever after for her. Jess was also an amazing character. He was understanding and kind. The set up for Sarah Beth and Jess’ growing relationship was great. They had quite a few obstacles to overcome and it was interesting to see how everything played out.
The narration for this audiobook was nicely done. The narrator had a pleasant voice and changed it up slightly between characters. There were only a couple of words that she pronounced differently than I would have expected, but that was a minor thing all in all. I would definitely enjoy listening to other books she has narrated.
I enjoyed Leaving Oxford immensely. The author did a wonderful job of creating a community and cast of characters that I am eager to return to.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
This story was so well written. I really appreciated the author’s use of flashbacks, so that I could truly understand Sarah Beth’s situation. It made me deeply care for this character and hope for a happily ever after for her. Jess was also an amazing character. He was understanding and kind. The set up for Sarah Beth and Jess’ growing relationship was great. They had quite a few obstacles to overcome and it was interesting to see how everything played out.
The narration for this audiobook was nicely done. The narrator had a pleasant voice and changed it up slightly between characters. There were only a couple of words that she pronounced differently than I would have expected, but that was a minor thing all in all. I would definitely enjoy listening to other books she has narrated.
I enjoyed Leaving Oxford immensely. The author did a wonderful job of creating a community and cast of characters that I am eager to return to.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
September 13, 2017
Delightful debut!
Sarah Beth (5 star southern name) suffers from anxiety. Jess dreams of coaching in the NFL.
I love the way the author unfolded Sarah Beth's story. I also liked how Jess came across as "real" and had doubts about a future with Sarah Beth.
I was invested in the secondary characters. There were bad guys (and ladies), sweet 4-5 year old girls, strong Christian friends, unlovable dogs, and so on. This was a well done contemporary romance novel. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
Sarah Beth (5 star southern name) suffers from anxiety. Jess dreams of coaching in the NFL.
I love the way the author unfolded Sarah Beth's story. I also liked how Jess came across as "real" and had doubts about a future with Sarah Beth.
I was invested in the secondary characters. There were bad guys (and ladies), sweet 4-5 year old girls, strong Christian friends, unlovable dogs, and so on. This was a well done contemporary romance novel. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
March 18, 2018
Three cheers for finding a new author who already has several books released, yay! I took a chance on a new-to-me author because a friend recommended the book to me. I already had a copy of it on Kindle, so I decided to give it a go. To my delight, the story was engaging, and I flew right through it. Leaving Oxford is uplifting, realistic, and full of messy and wonderful people.
I related to main characters Sarah Beth and Jess almost immediately. Though successful in her career and loved by many, Sarah Beth struggles with debilitating anxiety. I really love how Ferguson portrayed her struggles. It was refreshing that it wasn't a prayer, then miraculous healing. I believe in that, of course, but as someone who struggles with similar things and has prayed about it many times, I think that line of thinking can be more damaging than uplifting. Her struggle was just very genuine and realistic, and I applaud the author for handling that so well.
The plot focuses more on the characters and the curve balls that life throw you. There are some very sweet relationships throughout the book that compelled me to care about the outcome of everything for everyone. There is no villain necessarily, just regular people in all their shapes and forms, which means good, bad, and indifferent. The secondary characters are wonderful! I adored Jess's best friend, Nick, and his daughter, so much so that I hoped the next book would be about him and a certain other character, but that story is wrapped up in this one as well. Sometimes the dialogue comes across as super "church-y," but despite that, I never really felt that it was preachy, since much of the discussion like that happens before/after/during church or at some sort of function like that. Readers that prefer a light faith thread may not enjoy that aspect of the story quite as much. Personally, I found Sarah Beth's inner struggle, as well as Jess's personal story, to carry the faith aspect, but was not bothered by what I mentioned earlier.
Leaving Oxford is a well-written, uplifting and faith-filled story. I found myself encouraged as I read, which for me, counts as a good read indeed. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series, as well as her latest release, which looks to be the start of another series.
I related to main characters Sarah Beth and Jess almost immediately. Though successful in her career and loved by many, Sarah Beth struggles with debilitating anxiety. I really love how Ferguson portrayed her struggles. It was refreshing that it wasn't a prayer, then miraculous healing. I believe in that, of course, but as someone who struggles with similar things and has prayed about it many times, I think that line of thinking can be more damaging than uplifting. Her struggle was just very genuine and realistic, and I applaud the author for handling that so well.
The plot focuses more on the characters and the curve balls that life throw you. There are some very sweet relationships throughout the book that compelled me to care about the outcome of everything for everyone. There is no villain necessarily, just regular people in all their shapes and forms, which means good, bad, and indifferent. The secondary characters are wonderful! I adored Jess's best friend, Nick, and his daughter, so much so that I hoped the next book would be about him and a certain other character, but that story is wrapped up in this one as well. Sometimes the dialogue comes across as super "church-y," but despite that, I never really felt that it was preachy, since much of the discussion like that happens before/after/during church or at some sort of function like that. Readers that prefer a light faith thread may not enjoy that aspect of the story quite as much. Personally, I found Sarah Beth's inner struggle, as well as Jess's personal story, to carry the faith aspect, but was not bothered by what I mentioned earlier.
Leaving Oxford is a well-written, uplifting and faith-filled story. I found myself encouraged as I read, which for me, counts as a good read indeed. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series, as well as her latest release, which looks to be the start of another series.
April 21, 2017
Christian romance for the win
Sweet contemporary Christian romance. Lots of overcoming and becoming and welcoming. That was cheesy, but you get what I mean. The first half of the book is slit between flash backs and present day. It's actually kind of cool how it narrows to one defining moment. And then after that, the rest of the book almost feels like a while other story. Great love story but a lot of Gospel and God and religion. Great story!
Sweet contemporary Christian romance. Lots of overcoming and becoming and welcoming. That was cheesy, but you get what I mean. The first half of the book is slit between flash backs and present day. It's actually kind of cool how it narrows to one defining moment. And then after that, the rest of the book almost feels like a while other story. Great love story but a lot of Gospel and God and religion. Great story!
March 17, 2019
Leaving Oxford by Janet Ferguson is the first in a series called Southern Hearts.
I do not gravitate to contemporary fiction unless it is a suspense/mystery book. I have read another story by Ms. Ferguson in the past and I greatly enjoyed it, so I thought I would try another. I am so glad I did!
There is something very genuine about this story. The setting makes me want to visit Oxford. I could almost feel the humidity of the South. The characters are so real. There are Christians and some who come to Christ in the course of the story. They come across as struggling but everything progresses naturally. The conversations and the angst are just what you expect. The author deals with some touchy subjects such as anxiety disorder and past histories that are far from exemplary. She draws characters that you connect with and cheer for as they grow spiritually. There is much to be emulated. The themes of trust, forgiveness and redemption resonate in this story. Acceptance but with accountability are shown to great advantage. There are scenes with humor also. The goofy puppy is a welcome foil.
The story is complete but with enough characters to see that there is fodder for rest of the series. I recommend this book for those that want a taste of down home southern style living, with a real lesson in Christian living amidst trials.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
I do not gravitate to contemporary fiction unless it is a suspense/mystery book. I have read another story by Ms. Ferguson in the past and I greatly enjoyed it, so I thought I would try another. I am so glad I did!
There is something very genuine about this story. The setting makes me want to visit Oxford. I could almost feel the humidity of the South. The characters are so real. There are Christians and some who come to Christ in the course of the story. They come across as struggling but everything progresses naturally. The conversations and the angst are just what you expect. The author deals with some touchy subjects such as anxiety disorder and past histories that are far from exemplary. She draws characters that you connect with and cheer for as they grow spiritually. There is much to be emulated. The themes of trust, forgiveness and redemption resonate in this story. Acceptance but with accountability are shown to great advantage. There are scenes with humor also. The goofy puppy is a welcome foil.
The story is complete but with enough characters to see that there is fodder for rest of the series. I recommend this book for those that want a taste of down home southern style living, with a real lesson in Christian living amidst trials.
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
December 1, 2019
Interesting authentic Christian fiction book with plenty of faith and gospel messages.
The story deals with a woman who, because of several tragedies in her life, is paralyzed psychologically in a sense. She cannot leave the town of Oxford, Mississippi. Just the thought of it freezes her and appears in shock. She is successful in business and thriving in all other areas of her life with a supportive church family and many friends. She, however, is also not willing to get involved in a romantic relationship again after the death of her first love.
Perhaps my only “dislike” would be it was a bit long...too many side stories. They dealt with the story as a whole, but felt a bit like bulk rather than substance.
Good writing, though. Very good story.
The story deals with a woman who, because of several tragedies in her life, is paralyzed psychologically in a sense. She cannot leave the town of Oxford, Mississippi. Just the thought of it freezes her and appears in shock. She is successful in business and thriving in all other areas of her life with a supportive church family and many friends. She, however, is also not willing to get involved in a romantic relationship again after the death of her first love.
Perhaps my only “dislike” would be it was a bit long...too many side stories. They dealt with the story as a whole, but felt a bit like bulk rather than substance.
Good writing, though. Very good story.
August 22, 2017
My heart went out to Sarah Beth! She encountered a tragic event in her past that she is having difficulty coming to terms with. Sarah Beth's story is one of courage and determination. It is also a beautiful example of what the Lord can do with our broken lives. This is such a powerful story!
January 18, 2019
This was a fantastic read.
*I'd give it 4.5 stars
*I'd give it 4.5 stars
March 16, 2019
I think a lot of people can relate to this story.
August 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It's nice to read a book where a main character deals with anxiety.
September 22, 2016
I'm always amazed when I read a book, I'm so enthralled by it that I go search for other books by the author and find out it was their debut novel. That is the case with Leaving Oxford by Janet W. Ferguson.
"Growing hurts, but we can look back afterward and see that the change was worth the pain." (263)
With a story of leaving behind a life of sin, to a life with God in control, Leaving Oxford is Christian Fiction with the heavy emphasis on the inspirational aspect. That's not to say it's preachy, but instead the type of story that inspires you, that gives you reminders and that propels you to take a moment and reflect. As Sarah Beth's story unfolds layer by layer, we meet the woman she is now, and the one she was before, and see her struggles and her triumphs through God's grace. Sarah Beth's story is not only about triumph, but about mistakes, past and present that still need God's loving arms to comfort and pull through. Her backstory, and her current story, particularly her romance with Jesse hits you with the difference and the amazing growth in Sarah Beth and in Jesse.
"Don't confuse passion for love. Love includes the work that happens after the passion. Love becomes a choice." (46)
The characters, Sarah Beth, Jesse, Nick, Jill and even sweet, adorable Katie will have a story to tell you. Even Sam and Dylan have something more to reveal. O, and we can't forget the "ugliest" dog, Ginger, can we? The story itself will have you immersed until the end, and might even come away with a southern drawl, if you can help it! A story of redemption, faith and relinquishing control, adding in a bit of humor and romance, it's one that will surprise you and have you looking for more. Leaving Oxford left me with a taste of a satisfied read, and a story that's so alluring, I look forward to the rest of the series.
This review first appeared on Just Commonly Blog.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
"Growing hurts, but we can look back afterward and see that the change was worth the pain." (263)
With a story of leaving behind a life of sin, to a life with God in control, Leaving Oxford is Christian Fiction with the heavy emphasis on the inspirational aspect. That's not to say it's preachy, but instead the type of story that inspires you, that gives you reminders and that propels you to take a moment and reflect. As Sarah Beth's story unfolds layer by layer, we meet the woman she is now, and the one she was before, and see her struggles and her triumphs through God's grace. Sarah Beth's story is not only about triumph, but about mistakes, past and present that still need God's loving arms to comfort and pull through. Her backstory, and her current story, particularly her romance with Jesse hits you with the difference and the amazing growth in Sarah Beth and in Jesse.
"Don't confuse passion for love. Love includes the work that happens after the passion. Love becomes a choice." (46)
The characters, Sarah Beth, Jesse, Nick, Jill and even sweet, adorable Katie will have a story to tell you. Even Sam and Dylan have something more to reveal. O, and we can't forget the "ugliest" dog, Ginger, can we? The story itself will have you immersed until the end, and might even come away with a southern drawl, if you can help it! A story of redemption, faith and relinquishing control, adding in a bit of humor and romance, it's one that will surprise you and have you looking for more. Leaving Oxford left me with a taste of a satisfied read, and a story that's so alluring, I look forward to the rest of the series.
This review first appeared on Just Commonly Blog.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
July 9, 2016
When I began reading Leaving Oxford, I wasn't sure if I'd like it. I didn't embrace the characters right away, and the plot seemed to move a little slowly. At one point, I looked down at my Kindle and saw that I'd only read 11% of the book, and I nearly gave up. I'm so glad I didn't!
Yes, the book moves slowly at the beginning, and I wish that more of Sarah Beth's past had been revealed sooner—I think knowing more about her would have made me like her better initially. But once things really got moving (at about 20% in), I couldn't stop reading!
There's a realness to Leaving Oxford that's not present in much of what's available in the inspirational market today. The characters have messy lives before coming to Christ, and becoming a believer doesn't magically fix those problems, though the characters' focus does shift from living for themselves to living for Christ. Basically, Ferguson portrays the Christian life as messy and difficult, yet fulfilling. Also, Sarah Beth struggles with anxiety, and I appreciated that she sought out many avenues—including counseling and medication—in her quest to get better.
A highlight of this novel is the romance between Sarah Beth and Jess. Theirs is a slow burn romance that gradually builds—and left me dying for them to just kiss already! There's also a secondary romance between Sarah Beth's assistant and Jess's best friend, and I'm looking forward to reading more about them; they look to factor heavily into the second book in the series.
Once I got into the novel, I didn't want it to end, so I'm glad there are two more books in the series. I look forward to more from Ferguson! 4 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Yes, the book moves slowly at the beginning, and I wish that more of Sarah Beth's past had been revealed sooner—I think knowing more about her would have made me like her better initially. But once things really got moving (at about 20% in), I couldn't stop reading!
There's a realness to Leaving Oxford that's not present in much of what's available in the inspirational market today. The characters have messy lives before coming to Christ, and becoming a believer doesn't magically fix those problems, though the characters' focus does shift from living for themselves to living for Christ. Basically, Ferguson portrays the Christian life as messy and difficult, yet fulfilling. Also, Sarah Beth struggles with anxiety, and I appreciated that she sought out many avenues—including counseling and medication—in her quest to get better.
A highlight of this novel is the romance between Sarah Beth and Jess. Theirs is a slow burn romance that gradually builds—and left me dying for them to just kiss already! There's also a secondary romance between Sarah Beth's assistant and Jess's best friend, and I'm looking forward to reading more about them; they look to factor heavily into the second book in the series.
Once I got into the novel, I didn't want it to end, so I'm glad there are two more books in the series. I look forward to more from Ferguson! 4 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 10, 2017
I love a contemporary romance that I can really sink my teeth into. Especially when it's well written. And that perfectly sums up this first novel in Janet Ferguson's Southern Hearts series. By the time I got to the end of this novel, these characters truly felt like friends. I was totally invested in their stories - even the secondary characters like Nick and Jill - and I can't wait to see more of them in the books to come.
The romance is tender and mature. I love a guy who knows when a girl's worth waiting for - even when she feels broken on the inside - and Jess's patience and friendship with Sarah Beth was beautiful to watch. One of my favourite moments in the book is when Jess finally asks Sarah Beth on an official date. She tells her best friend Jill, a little stunned, and Jill snickers, "You've been dating for months, silly. You just choose to pretend otherwise." And it's true. It's such a beautiful observation of the way their friendship develops and deepens through the book, before they finally get to that first kiss... *sigh*
Janet W. Ferguson definitely has a new fan :-)
The romance is tender and mature. I love a guy who knows when a girl's worth waiting for - even when she feels broken on the inside - and Jess's patience and friendship with Sarah Beth was beautiful to watch. One of my favourite moments in the book is when Jess finally asks Sarah Beth on an official date. She tells her best friend Jill, a little stunned, and Jill snickers, "You've been dating for months, silly. You just choose to pretend otherwise." And it's true. It's such a beautiful observation of the way their friendship develops and deepens through the book, before they finally get to that first kiss... *sigh*
Janet W. Ferguson definitely has a new fan :-)
July 9, 2016
Excellent Book!
I absolutely loved this book! I actually won this book a few months ago from the author and put it on my TBR list. If I had known how amazingly wonderful it was I would have put it on the top or that list. This story grabbed me from the first chapter and I couldn't put it down. Being from Memphis and having a son who went to Old Miss I felt these characters were family and friends. I will definitely be reading the whole series. This is an excellent read and I highly recommend it. This is an honest review. Buy the book. You won't regret it.
I absolutely loved this book! I actually won this book a few months ago from the author and put it on my TBR list. If I had known how amazingly wonderful it was I would have put it on the top or that list. This story grabbed me from the first chapter and I couldn't put it down. Being from Memphis and having a son who went to Old Miss I felt these characters were family and friends. I will definitely be reading the whole series. This is an excellent read and I highly recommend it. This is an honest review. Buy the book. You won't regret it.
January 23, 2018
DNF - TMI in flashbacks to relationship with previous boyfriend
April 22, 2019
(I received this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.)
I was intrigued as I watched the main character, Sarah Beth, face an unusual challenge. All she wants is for her issue to go away so she can lead a normal life. The author does a nice job unfolding things in Sarah Beth's life when she meets a man who helps her face her fears and sparks thoughts of love in spite of the issue at hand.
I was intrigued as I watched the main character, Sarah Beth, face an unusual challenge. All she wants is for her issue to go away so she can lead a normal life. The author does a nice job unfolding things in Sarah Beth's life when she meets a man who helps her face her fears and sparks thoughts of love in spite of the issue at hand.
December 30, 2019
Set in the college town of Oxford, Mississippi, Leaving Oxford is a good read. Sara Beth is the main character along with Jesse the football coach. She’s an advertising expert and professor. They begin a friendship by going waterskiing. Things progress and his friend and her daughter are part of the journey. Sara Beth has a tainted past. As you read, you get to hear the story about her life before Oxford and learn why she never leaves. I was touched by how caring, thoughtful and compassionate Jesse was about it. It’s a story of redemption, overcoming and fresh starts. I received a copy of this book from the author. All views stated here are my own.
August 29, 2019
I couldn’t help but like Sarah Beth. Despite her severe anxiety, she’s a good friend and boss to those put in her life. And I loved the close relationship she has with her brother.
Then Jess enters her life. And keeps showing up. The two become friends, and even though he’s interested in more, he realizes Sarah Beth isn’t there.
These characters are flawed people who are trying their best to live a Godly life but still make poor judgments sometimes. Who can’t relate to that?
Janet Ferguson gives readers a good look into a small southern town and the south’s love of college football. Add in a crazy dog and an adorable little girl, and there Leaving Oxford is a strong start to this series.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Then Jess enters her life. And keeps showing up. The two become friends, and even though he’s interested in more, he realizes Sarah Beth isn’t there.
These characters are flawed people who are trying their best to live a Godly life but still make poor judgments sometimes. Who can’t relate to that?
Janet Ferguson gives readers a good look into a small southern town and the south’s love of college football. Add in a crazy dog and an adorable little girl, and there Leaving Oxford is a strong start to this series.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 5, 2020
Journey of faith!
I felt like Leaving Oxford was a beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, healing, and love. I thought Janet Ferguson wrote with such passion that I felt like I was there living the experiences with the characters. It brought laughter , tension, tears, and rejoicing at times throughout the book. It was a great read!!
I felt like Leaving Oxford was a beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, healing, and love. I thought Janet Ferguson wrote with such passion that I felt like I was there living the experiences with the characters. It brought laughter , tension, tears, and rejoicing at times throughout the book. It was a great read!!
November 15, 2020
“Leaving Oxford” was such an enjoyable read! To date, I’ve never met a Janet Ferguson book I didn’t like, and like another reviewer said, I will be looking for book 2 n this series post-haste!
I loved the characters of Sarah Beth and Jess, as well as the rest of the cast of characters - including Gingie, the funny-looking pup that Sarah Beth is sure is God’s answer to her cry for love!
Highly recommend this book, and any other by this author! Being southern, myself, I think it transcends the typical “southern novel” and introduces the reader to an amazing part of the country!
I loved the characters of Sarah Beth and Jess, as well as the rest of the cast of characters - including Gingie, the funny-looking pup that Sarah Beth is sure is God’s answer to her cry for love!
Highly recommend this book, and any other by this author! Being southern, myself, I think it transcends the typical “southern novel” and introduces the reader to an amazing part of the country!
September 24, 2019
Grace
I loved this book! I know I say that about many books but it's true. I loved that Sarah Beth was a strong woman and a good friend. What I loved most was that she suffered from anxiety. That may seem strange but I loved how real it was and how the author deals with it throughout the book.
I loved the grace shown by most everyone in t book. Old and new friends all understood and wanted to help Sarah Beth move forward from her past.
I've had this book on my Kindle for quite some time, I have the entire series now and look forward to reading each book!
I loved this book! I know I say that about many books but it's true. I loved that Sarah Beth was a strong woman and a good friend. What I loved most was that she suffered from anxiety. That may seem strange but I loved how real it was and how the author deals with it throughout the book.
I loved the grace shown by most everyone in t book. Old and new friends all understood and wanted to help Sarah Beth move forward from her past.
I've had this book on my Kindle for quite some time, I have the entire series now and look forward to reading each book!
November 24, 2018
This was a book I’d definitely recommend. Sarah Beth is the main character and she leaves CA after some traumatic things happened to her. She went back to her roots in Oxford, Mississippi and is teaching some classes at the college along with working long distance at her old job in advertising in CA.
She meets the football coach from the college and they are attracted to each other, but the storyline isn’t just boy meets girl and everything is happily ever after.
She meets the football coach from the college and they are attracted to each other, but the storyline isn’t just boy meets girl and everything is happily ever after.
Read
August 5, 2019I really enjoyed this book. The story draws you in and keeps you interested until the very end. This is a sweet romance with just the right amount of suspense and friction between certain characters. I look forward to the next story in this series. I highly recommend this book.
January 10, 2020
Good Book
Loved the characters and their story. Loved the spiritual growth of the characters and their struggles and witness to their friends and families. Highly recommend.
Loved the characters and their story. Loved the spiritual growth of the characters and their struggles and witness to their friends and families. Highly recommend.
Want to read
July 29, 2018I want to read this book because it will give me more information about Christianity and I hope I'll read it withe pleasure
July 2, 2019
4.5 stars
Good book and good message. Sarah Beth was in the kind of business where you meet a lot of people. For a while, I wasn’t sure who’d she end up with. Lol...I read a sample of the 2nd book in the series and I love that Jess and Sarah Beth’s story continues, asl well as the start of a new one.
Good book and good message. Sarah Beth was in the kind of business where you meet a lot of people. For a while, I wasn’t sure who’d she end up with. Lol...I read a sample of the 2nd book in the series and I love that Jess and Sarah Beth’s story continues, asl well as the start of a new one.
July 7, 2019
Great book!
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