Alexandra's ordinary teenage life is about to change – dramatically. Unaware of her altered DNA, Alex and her family are of interest to unethical scientists. Her parents' plane crash is just the onset of disturbing discoveries. When it becomes apparent that it wasn't an accident, Alex needs to figure out who's behind it or share a grim fate of a lab rat. The first part of this exciting adventure thriller presents the world's different faces: from beautiful to ugly, from frightening to comforting. Besides the stormy drama, the book is about friendship, intimacy and growing up – a heartening story mixed with educational, funny and even steamy threads. Full of action and with a great dose of humor, the story races to a surprising and gripping twist.
Update: downgrading to a whole 1 stars. I tried to be nice despite my distaste for the quality of writing, the plot - but now the author's attitude towards a poor review, resulting in haranguing me on GR all day, seals the deal. Down to 1.
This was not for me.
There's a lot happening from page one, without a lot of detail. The butler character was unnamed for as far as I read, something that bothered me a lot. It resulted in tepid, repetitive writing.
By the time we got to a fairly explicit scene between like the dean of a school and the UNDERAGE protagonist - I could not. This read like Kill Bill, a lady assassin plot that has promise but with very "written by a dude tones" in the worst way.
The author reached out for a review on twitter, so here it is; I suggest a sensitivity read and another round of editing for sure.
A fascinating story of a young girl entangled in the activities of an undercover organization. Everything you may expect from a great read: a fast moving twisted tale, kidnapping, crime, friendship and love. Absolutely brilliant. Can’t wait to see what’s next.
This was an interesting story. I don't actually read much but found that I wanted to keep with this book. I related it to some of my own thoughts and experiences. Following this author now. Recommended.
Those who do their homework by reading other reviews may have a hint of what to expect. The synopsis sold me on the promise of altered DNA and what appeared to be a conspiracy of unethical scientists. Such details are few and far between, but are made up for by delivering everything else the synopsis promises as well as espionage, intrigue, and secret hideaways. This is my first read of anything that might be described as dark academia, and, if I return for Hilary after Michaelmas, it will be straight back to Oxford: I would recommend Oxford Girls.
A positively surprising debut from an author seemingly distant from the world of phantasy and thriller. If you're searching for a complex intercultural plot featured in the noble colleges of Oxford, grab a cup of mulled wine and dive into reading. This blend of action, dipped in a horrifying realm of human experiments and spiced with subtle eroticism, truly merits attention!
Mystery, secret agency, some science fiction and sex scenes, and the self-maturation process of the main character, Alex, make this book enjoyable. The story is well-written with engaging dialogues and a dramatic plotline. Delightful escapism that deserves a 5-star rating.
I’ve got this book for a review and was pleasantly surprised. The first part of a series can be challenging for both an author and a reader. But I fell in love with Alex and her friends. I like the premise very much and can’t wait to see what’s next.
“Barely had time to catch my breath while reading!”
P. D. Kuch’s novel, “Oxford Girls,” hooks the reader from the get go and precipitates constant uncertainty about what will happen to Alexandra, the protagonist.
She learns about a tragic plane crash where her parents have apparently perished. Immediately, her former predictable and entitled world turns upside down. Before she can grieve, her “butler/guardian” rushes her to a new location. Why? In short order, answers start emerging and they involve serious matters including international crimes, Japanese mafia, Interpol, political corruption, secret organizations, coming of age, sexual awakenings, and women empowerment.
She begins a new life in an unfamiliar location and events fly at a rapid pace. Unusual challenges test her ability to survive. P. D. Kuch intrigues the reader with brief flash backs and backstories to spice the reading experience while driving the story arc forward. The author’s use of literary references and academic curriculum descriptions add to the authenticity of this novel.
It is a pleasure to see how a bright and determined teen meets and responds to various obstacles. Oxford University plays a critical role in Alex’s development giving her the confidence and skill sets to learn, take risks, form alliances and confront adversaries appearing from everywhere. At times, this reader felt he was actually attending Oxford through Alexandra’s POV.
Issues remain unresolved at the end of Volume 1. P.D. Kuch has set the stage to learn and relish the outcomes awaiting in Volume 2. It can not come soon enough.
This novel displays many interesting genre elements - YA, International thriller, suspense, and mystery. At times the reader feels he experienced a James Bond thriller. But in this case, the hero is a clever, young woman. No doubt she will like her martinis to be shaken not stirred.
I stuck with the book because the plot seemed interesting and I'm glad I did. I wasn't sure I would like it at the beginning but I am now immersed enough to look forward to book 2. The characters are likeable and the secondary plot with the main character's family will hopefully be more explored in the future of the series. The book caters to the dark academia aesthetic, slightly reminiscent ofThe Secret History. I was given a free copy to review, however this does not affect my statements. Some thoughts I had while reading (may contain spoilers):
* Heroine(s) - 3/5 Alex is almost 17 years old american girl, she is also spoiled and very childish sometimes. At times she is very annoying and I couldn`t connect her while reading the book, but that is a personal experience.
* Secondary Characters - 4/5 I loved N (?Niko) and Stefani. Hal did not have much personality beside being hot. He has a girlfriend when they first met and he is in Oxford to breed with aristocrats, but he suddenly falls in love with Alex.
* Plot - 4/5 ( international crime and spies are not really something I would go for) * Romance/Steam - 4/5 (F/F, F/M) I prefer her with Stefany. I don`t really like Hal. * Drama/Conflict/Angst - 4/5
* Writing Style - 4/5
What I liked: It was quick paced, and easy read. Not really my genre. I liked that Alex is bisexual, and has adventures.
What I did not like: some typos here and there. English is not my first language but I picked out a few like: bustard/bastard etc. Also two grown men, bending over a 16-almost 17 year old girl in an office, removing her panties and spanking her with a paddle... that is just not right. Physical punishment is abuse (!) even if it is explained later that is a "tradition". Also just so so creepy. I would have reported it as sexual assault. Her whole relationship with Hal was so sudden. I understand he is attractive, but I just could not see how they "fall in loved" with eachother.
This book came to my attention through the author’s Tumblr page. I was immediately interested because of the title and the book cover. I immediately purchased a copy from Amazon and within a few pages I was fully hooked.
More than being part of a genre, this book is all about the dark academia aesthetic. If you aren’t sure what this is, I encourage you to look more into the subject. Ivy colored walls, days spent studying multiple topics, tweed, rain, lace, poetry, and an air of sensuality. The author takes you quickly and deeply into this world through characters that are alluring, fascinating, and complex. The plot is a combination of international intrigue, criminal organizations, not of the mafia kind, and a shadowy group of good people who are consistently fighting against evil with not only physicality but also intelligence.
The protagonist finds herself at the University of Oxford for a specific reason. While there, she comes into her own with the assistance of many diverse people. Perhaps unknowingly to her at first, she is confident, strong, and draws people into her, often at the most basic level.
Intrigue taking place on the campus of the world’s oldest college. Filled with characters who embrace their sexuality, their intelligence, and their destiny. I cannot wait for further books featuring these characters.
A solid and enthusiastic recommendation. Please read.
I was immediately drawn to this book by its cover and the extremely long, very candid title. I think it’s very important to catch a reader’s attention right away and the beginning of this story did just that!
This story takes you on a wild ride with a lot of twists and turns that leaves you trying to guess what in the world will happen next. There is a complexity to this story that really encourages the reader to pay close attention to the details. I suspect this will come into play even more prominently in the next novel.
With every chapter I read I kept visualizing this story as a series on a streaming service and that is exciting!
I do believe the sex scenes became a bit redundant and pulled me out of the story a bit, especially when it would happen in back to back chapters, that would be my main nitpick.
All in all this was an excellent novel and I look forward to finding out what happens next, especially after how the story ends!
The book takes you on a wild ride through a riveting plot and overlapping genres. I would not call this your usual coming-of-age story since the main character, Alex, has an active and diverse love life--a few scenes are hot and steamy. She learns about herself and others during her time at Oxford University, and the dark side of student life is explored to the fullest. When Alex investigates her parents' suspicious deaths, she meets shady characters who want to use her for their experiments. Twists and turns take you on a bumpy ride to the end, where loose ends taunt you to read the next book.
I LOVE this book! “Oxford Girls” is a must-read for anyone who enjoys excitement, danger, suspense, and mystery. It is a dangerously delicious story that takes its viewers on a journey into the mind of Alex with a dark academia twist. I studied English Literature abroad at the University of Oxford and I must say that it was lovely to see the university referenced in the book. In addition to offering generous amounts of politics, incognito organizations, crime, eroticism, and feminism, I think that “Oxford Girls” compels readers to be adventurous risk-takers and to be bold in their own life!
I don't usually write reviews on books, but this one was a highlight. I came across this book on Tumblr, and I was almost immediatly intriged, it seemed like the kind of books I could've liked, so I gave it a shot. And I'm glad I did! This book was a great surprise, I completly fell in love with the dark academia aethetic, the plot, and the characters (specially Alex;)). I look foreward to see what's next!
Medical experiments, unethical scientists, abuse of power, corruption in the background of an exciting, mysterious and humorous fantasy story with a pinch of eroticism. The author takes his readers on a journey of discovery behind the facades that cleverly conceal reality. Good entertainment! Can hardly wait for the second part! Clear recommendation!
Oxford Girls is so far: a strange blend of genres and tones, and quick-paced action-packed plot-boiler with a quirky protagonist and an unusual premise. With its unpredictable chapter-by-chapter revelations, it straddles B-movie and sophisticated stylization, king of like Kill Bill. The author utilizes a close first person perspective with a distinctive voice to imbue it with intimate internal monologue, cultivating sympathy for our inimitable heroine from this jaded reader. While systematically surprising and unafraid to 'go there,' the book makes use of a familiar setting, while its intriguing undercurrent of darkness (and overt darkness) serve to fuel the narrative's propulsive scenes. Occasionally provocative, but always cinematic and absorbing. The realistic dialogue conforms to the perturbing scenes, which are often like freeway wrecks in that you can't look away. A touch of loneliness plagues our main character. But also, troubled propensities, amid an environment so bafflingly confrontational, that she must often act quickly and process on the run.
The scenes shift to far-flung locales by and by, deepening the plot, while refreshing the scenery, as the camera zooms in on corporate big wigs and futuristic conspiracies. A merging of drama and science fiction occurs, dipping into horror and abiding comfortably in the action category.
In the end it is a coming of age tale equipped with humor, dread, and heart. Each of which take turns pulling the reader through a haphazard roller coaster ride of non-stop twists and turns. The perfect indulgence for our desensitized literary tastes in this day and age.
The lead protagonist, Alex, is introduced. Her parents have passed away and she is now in college. She narrates portions of the book with some perspective, acknowledging that her younger 16 year old self didn't fully understand her parents' love. But she is also immersed in her daily life getting on the rowing team/
Other sections are third person narrator and take the reader first to China, then England, and ultimately to a DC agency her parents participated in. There is also a letter given to us the reader from a 10 year old claiming to be on a space ship.
The two storylines build with emphasis on Alex's world and POV. The book certainly sets up possibilities for future books.
I enjoy a bit of dark plot. This work has it. However, I typically do not enjoy books with romance-novel style sex scenes and lines like "I really hoped it wouldn't be Hal's d--- that imprisons me, but rather the person attached to it." I say that because I understand many do enjoy that in their reads to accompany up the story like salt added to chips. This novel has it between the protagonist and two different characters which kept me from rating it a 5. I say that, because for many readers this would make it a six. The scenes are very well written, just not my thing.
I was given a copy to review. My review and opinions are my own.
If you like a mystery with a bit of secret agency and science fiction, this story is well worth reading. I would note minor issues with price, a need for proofreading, and the need for a mature content warning for adult themes including BDSM, spanking, and graphic F/F and F/M scenes as the only reasons this isn't a five-star read. Thanks for a grand escape PD Kuch. I enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next.
I am expecting from a book to forget about the whole surrounding world and move to another one - this book took me there! I have read it with excitement and want to know what’s next! Can’t wait for the second part!
I enjoyed this book. I thought the author’s tone and writing ability shined throughout. If you’re looking for a good coming to age young adult book, check out this one!
P.D. Kuch's Oxford Girls is a suspenseful, action-packed thriller that enthralls readers right away. The book begins with Alexandra's parents dying in a catastrophic plane crash, throwing her into an unclear and dangerous world. From there, the plot takes a number of sudden turns involving international crimes, the Japanese mafia, Interpol, governmental corruption, secret societies, and more.
Flashbacks and backstories are deftly woven into the story by the author, giving it depth and retaining the reader's interest. The inclusion of literary allusions and academic descriptions improves the novel's authenticity and gives the reader a fully realized experience.
The book's high point is Alexandra's path of empowerment and self-discovery. The character's development is interesting and motivating as she overcomes obstacles and faces enemies. Alexandra's development is significantly influenced by Oxford University, which offers a setting for studying, taking chances, and building relationships.
The vivid and captivating language of P.D. Kuch draws the reader right into the action. The book's appeal is enhanced by the genre variety, which includes YA, international thriller, suspense, and mystery. It also stands out for its original take on the classic hero position by placing a young lady at its center.
The first part of the adventure presents a thrilling and heartening story filled with action, humor, and intimate moments. Readers are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Volume 2 as the plot accelerates toward an unexpected and compelling twist.
For those who enjoy action novels that are both exciting and thought-provoking, Oxford Girls is a must-read. A distinctive and thrilling story written by P.D. Kuch has readers on the edge of their seats the entire time. The work is a noteworthy contribution to the literary world due to its skillful blending of several genres and the relatable and courageous heroine.
This was a strange one for me, our protagonist is called Alexandra, she learns that a tragic plane crash has caused her parents to apparently perish and she is then shipped off to live elsewhere. Things started happening quite quickly and I was hooked! It was literally one thing after another!
I liked our main character. She was ambitious, compassionate, relatable and above all courageous, I could imagine myself wanting to be friends with her in real life.
The story dips into a variety of different genres including mystery, YA and thriller. This was an element I loved because there really is something in this book for everyone, I feel that the author is trying to appeal to a wider audience.
A Thrilling Journey of Secrets, Survival, and Self Discovery
Alexandra’s life is turned upside down when a tragic plane crash reveals a dark truth her DNA has been altered, and now she’s a target. With her family caught in the crosshairs of unethical scientists, Alex must unravel a dangerous mystery before she becomes their next experiment.
Altered is a fast paced adventure packed with twists, humor, and heart. As Alex navigates a world of hidden agendas and shocking truths, she also discovers friendship, love, and what it truly means to grow up. Gripping, emotional, and at times steamy, this coming of age thriller will keep you turning pages to the very end.
In this fast paced, genre blending adventure, Alexandra’s life is turned upside down when a tragic plane crash unearths dangerous secrets about her DNA and her identity. Hunted by ruthless scientists, she must unravel the truth before she becomes their next experiment.
Balancing suspense, humor, and emotional depth, this story dives into themes of friendship, growing up, and resilience. With gripping twists and bursts of heart and heat, it’s a thrilling ride that keeps you guessing and feeling until the very end.
This is one of the few books could hold my attention from the beginning and make me reluctant to stop reading. The main character was someone that I wanted to follow, and every page left me interested in knowing what would happen next.
There are lots of things happening in this book, which you already know if you've read any of the other detailed reviews. The best I can say is, if you're interested enough to read this, you'll like it! I recommend it without hesitation.
The concept of a teenage girl with altered DNA being pursued by unethical scientists adds a unique twist to the adventure thriller genre.
The mystery surrounding her parents' plane crash and the need to uncover the truth about who is behind it creates a sense of urgency and suspense that kept me engaged.
Its a controversial book and i enjoy reading such books <3 LOVED IT!! Looking for the Book 2 from the author
I thought this book would be sad but it actually turned really good. It's not the common thiriller which is upstanding and outstanding in it's very unique ways. The multi-directional plots and action scenes are all quite riveting plus explosive. Well these are all the spoilers I am giving out. Once you buy the book than read it you will give 5 star's and good reviews also.