Synopsis: 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.
-Goodreads

Review: People are talking about this book. It had been sitting on my bookshelf for awhile before I finally picked it up, but when a friend of mine from school who isn’t much of a reader mentioned how great Before I Fall is, I knew I had to read it as soon as I could. I wasn’t disappointed. Yes, it has basically the same concept as Groundhog Day but is way more heart-wrenching. Sam Kingston is reliving the same day, over and over, trying to make the right choices before she runs out of time.

The entire book was well fleshed out, but one aspect that really stood out for me is how well all of the characters were crafted. No one was a two dimensional stereotype, not even the bitchy, mean girl best friends. Everyone had their flaws as well as redeeming qualities so that you could understand what Sam saw in them in the first place. It made her entire experience  so much more vivid for the reader.

The reason I only gave this book a four instead of a five, is that it was a little predictable. You know that Samantha will discover what is important to her, make the right choice and learn to appreciate her family. Nothing new there. How it all comes together is beautifully done though so this is still definitely worth a read. Lauren Oliver puts exactly the right touch on a book that could have been dull and cliche.

Overall, a great book that both teens and adults will undoubtedly enjoy. Lauren Oliver is quickly becoming a YA author to watch.

Buy the book @Amazon (US) @Amazon (CAN)

Rating:

Second Opinions:
@Michelle’s Cozy YA Blog
@Book Hooked Blog
@Must Read Faster