Not Quite Dead Yet: A Thrilling Book Review
Overall, this book was a solid four-star read for me. It's a thriller about a girl who's attacked and left with only seven days to live, so she sets out to solve her own murder. I absolutely love that concept, and the idea of piecing together your own death kept me hooked.
Since it's set in the U.S., there isn't much worldbuilding needed, but the fall atmosphere came through beautifully. I could practically feel that crisp October breeze while reading.
The characters were strong and well thought out. The female main character is witty, sharp, and resilient. Her humor was a highlight, though at times it felt a little over the top, but even she recognizes this about herself, and that self-awareness really added to her growth. The male lead was also well done, and I appreciated how much intention went into shaping these characters. Their motivations were clear, and it was easy to see what made them who they are.
The plot was hands down the strongest part of the book. With the clock ticking, there's this constant sense of urgency that makes it hard to put down. I found myself racing through pages, eager to piece everything together. The twists were satisfying, at one point I guessed the attacker but forgot about it, only to still be surprised by the reveal at the end. Everything tied together neatly, without any noticeable plot holes.
Holly Jackson's writing style is incredibly easy to read, fast-paced, engaging, and with dialogue that feels true to each character. This is the second book I've read from her, and like the first, it just flies by. That said, I personally tend to love more descriptive, flowery writing, so while this was a breeze to get through, it didn't fully scratch that itch for me.
In terms of enjoyment, this book really delivered. I liked the characters, the plot, the writing, and the ending. It even got me a little emotional, I shed a tear toward the end. The author did a great job making me care deeply about certain characters, so by the conclusion I felt like I truly knew them.
I'd definitely recommend this one to fans of Holly Jackson or anyone who loves a good "whodunit." Be prepared to suspect everyone, and be wrong most of the time. It's a fun, emotional ride that keeps you guessing until the end.
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