Before I Fall

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world's most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High—from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

from harperteen.com

Beth says 4 Stars...

This was an interesting novel. It was definitely not at all what I expected. From what I'd heard I expected something much more fantasy laden. Yes, the whole crux of the story depends on being able to suspend belief. However, I was expecting something more akin to Melissa Marr or Cassandra Claire. It took me a little time to adjust what I'd been expecting to the reality of the book. Once I'd done that, it ended up being an enjoyable read. The book basically developed what Sam was supposed to do on the final day of her life. She lived out the same day different days, with different knowledge and results. The plot moved along interestingly, particularly with the device of having Sam relive the day 7 times. Slowly information was revealed, but it felt odd at times. Sometimes the facts seemed rather random, which detracted from the forward movement of the story.

The characters were fine. They weren't extraordinary, but then they didn't drag everything down. The thing was that you got to know them, but didn't see them grow. Because the plot didn't move in a strictly linear sense, it made character development of everyone except the main character, Sam, pretty much impossible. They never got a chance to change; in fact all that happened was that we were allowed to get inside their heads to know them as they were at that moment. That's no small thing, but I guess I just wanted a little more. I love seeing characters become something else; transform.

Overall this was a good book. It wasn't what I expected, but it was good despite my preconceived notions. It isn't the best debut this year, but it wasn't bad. It was definitely captivating, with a story that really pulls you in. This would make a good, yet serious beach read. Just light enough to be okay, but not so light to feel like fluff.