Some books grip you with twists. Some move you with emotion. And then there are rare ones that do both, effortlessly. Not Quite Dead Yet is exactly that kind of novel.

From the very first chapter, the book pulls you into a whirlwind of revelations. Every chapter uncovers something new, pushing the story forward at a relentless pace. It’s the kind of book where you promise yourself just one more chapter, and suddenly you’re halfway through without realizing it.

This wasn’t just a good read for me. It was an experience. One that left me impressed, emotional, and genuinely in awe by the time I turned the last page.

Book Summary: What Not Quite Dead Yet Is About (Spoiler-Free)

Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson is a fast-paced psychological thriller built around a chilling and unforgettable premise.

The story follows Margaret “Jet” Mason, a 27-year-old woman whose life changes drastically after a violent attack on Halloween night. Left with a devastating head injury, Jet is told by doctors that she has a fatal aneurysm, one that could end her life within a matter of days.

With time running out, Jet is faced with an impossible choice. Instead of undergoing a risky surgery with uncertain outcomes, she decides to use the days she has left to do something extraordinary: find out who tried to kill her.

As Jet begins investigating her own attempted murder, she is joined by her childhood friend Billy. Together, they peel back layers of secrets buried within her relationships, her past, and even her own family. Each revelation adds urgency to the countdown, turning the story into a gripping race against time.

At its core, Not Quite Dead Yet isn’t just about solving a mystery. It’s also about confronting unfinished business, emotional truths, and what it truly means to live when time is no longer guaranteed.

A Chapter-by-Chapter Roller Coaster

One of the strongest aspects of this book is its structure. Every single chapter reveals something new, a detail, a secret, or a shift that changes how you see the story.

There’s no dragging, no unnecessary filler. The pacing is tight, sharp, and incredibly addictive. Each chapter ends in a way that almost forces you to keep reading, making this a true page-turner.

I genuinely loved every part of the journey. The constant movement of the plot keeps your mind racing, but it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it feels intentional, carefully crafted to maintain suspense without sacrificing clarity.

Emotional Depth That Took Me by Surprise

What truly elevated Not Quite Dead Yet for me was its emotional depth.

There’s a point in the book where an entire chapter is devoted to an emotional bond rather than action or mystery. Instead of slowing the story down, this moment adds weight to everything that follows. It grounds the narrative, reminding us that behind the twists and danger are real people, real feelings, and real connections.

This is where I especially adored Holly Jackson’s writing. The sensitivity with which emotions are handled is admirable. Nothing feels exaggerated or forced. The emotional moments are subtle, honest, and deeply affecting.

That balance, between high-stakes tension and emotional intimacy, is what makes this book stand out in the psychological thriller genre.

Writing Style: Sharp, Sensitive, and Engaging

Holly Jackson’s writing style in Not Quite Dead Yet is both sharp and compassionate.

The prose is crisp and easy to follow, allowing the story to move quickly without confusion. At the same time, when the narrative slows down to explore emotions, it does so with grace and care.

The sensitivity in the writing deserves special mention. Even when dealing with heavy themes, the book never feels exploitative. Instead, it treats its characters and their pain with respect. That thoughtful approach makes the emotional moments hit harder and feel more genuine.

The Ending: Heartbreaking but Perfect

The ending of Not Quite Dead Yet is, quite simply, a chef’s kiss.

It’s heartbreaking, yes, but also incredibly satisfying. The conclusion stays true to the story and the characters, wrapping things up in a way that feels complete and purposeful. There are no loose ends, no unresolved plot holes, and no unnecessary shock value.

Every question is answered. Every thread is tied together.

It’s the kind of ending that hurts a little, but in the best possible way.

Final Verdict: One of My Favourites

Not Quite Dead Yet was an intense, emotional, and unforgettable read.

Every chapter delivered something new, every emotional moment felt earned, and the ending was both heartbreaking and perfect. The sensitivity in the writing, combined with relentless pacing, makes this book truly special.

This has to be one of my favourites — a solid wow from start to finish.

Rating: 5/5