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When I Died
Editors edition
When Adrianna dies, it's not what she expected.
The police section off the area even though there is no crime. She was not mugged, struck down, shot, or stabbed. She simply dies, leaving bystanders with expressions of sadness, surprise, and curiosity.
Death brings with it something else: She doesn't know if she's a spirit, a ghost, or the beginnings of a zombie. But she can still see, think, and remember.
Meanwhile, there's Jonathan. While it's unclear if he's an angel or something else, he seems to know that Adrianna is meant to serve a great purpose and that there's a reason she's continued on.
Jonathan must also try to unravel the mystery of Dierdre, a child who for some reason has not moved forward in the afterlife. He thinks there must be a reason for that, but he struggled to figure out why she's trapped in between worlds.
When Adrianna dies, it's not what she expected.
The police section off the area even though there is no crime. She was not mugged, struck down, shot, or stabbed. She simply dies, leaving bystanders with expressions of sadness, surprise, and curiosity.
Death brings with it something else: She doesn't know if she's a spirit, a ghost, or the beginnings of a zombie. But she can still see, think, and remember.
Meanwhile, there's Jonathan. While it's unclear if he's an angel or something else, he seems to know that Adrianna is meant to serve a great purpose and that there's a reason she's continued on.
Jonathan must also try to unravel the mystery of Dierdre, a child who for some reason has not moved forward in the afterlife. He thinks there must be a reason for that, but he struggled to figure out why she's trapped in between worlds.
- GenresFantasyParanormalMystery
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 29, 2019
3.5 stars
When I Died by Elizabeth Eckert is a unique story. I was intrigued from the start and for the most part, it held my attention. It is written in both first and third person POV. Despite the switching back and forth of voice, it was easy to follow. There were few grammatical errors or typos, and the characters were likeable. There are some great lines in this book, one of my favourites being: With help, time, and peace, he could heal, learn to forgive, and rise above the dirt he’d been buried in.
While I enjoyed the story, there were some aspects of the writing that pulled me away, and the story didn’t stay with me when I wasn’t reading. The main character, Adrianna, has a lot of inner thoughts, all written within brackets, I found that distracting. I also noted instances of redundancies that seemed more like filler and a creative edit would help with the flow of the story. Despite these issues I am interested in seeing what the next book holds.
When I Died by Elizabeth Eckert is a unique story. I was intrigued from the start and for the most part, it held my attention. It is written in both first and third person POV. Despite the switching back and forth of voice, it was easy to follow. There were few grammatical errors or typos, and the characters were likeable. There are some great lines in this book, one of my favourites being: With help, time, and peace, he could heal, learn to forgive, and rise above the dirt he’d been buried in.
While I enjoyed the story, there were some aspects of the writing that pulled me away, and the story didn’t stay with me when I wasn’t reading. The main character, Adrianna, has a lot of inner thoughts, all written within brackets, I found that distracting. I also noted instances of redundancies that seemed more like filler and a creative edit would help with the flow of the story. Despite these issues I am interested in seeing what the next book holds.
December 28, 2018
Let me state upfront that this novel was not written for a 50+ year old male. This was a book club choice and not one I would have chosen to read. That doesn’t make it a “bad” book, just one that I couldn’t connect with. My review will be based purely on the technical aspects of the novel and not the story itself. I will say, however, that the story was innovative and moderately dramatic. Readers of romantic fiction, or perhaps teens that are looking for something a little deeper, would probably find this novel an excellent and intriguing read.
From a technical aspect, this novel is above average in execution but could use some work on editing, pacing, and continuity. There are no “errors” per se, but the excessive “wordiness” draws the reader out of the moment (editing), pacing is very slow, the dialogue lacks realism (continuity). Perhaps it’s a little thing, but simple changes like using a conjunction like “don’t” instead of “do not” take away from flow of the story.
There’s an old adage that applies: an author needs to write 100,000 words in order to have an 80,000 word novel. This story falls into that trap. As good as the concept, general writing, and the plot execution was, there was about 20% of the novel that should have been left out in order to keep the reader engaged.
3.75 stars
From a technical aspect, this novel is above average in execution but could use some work on editing, pacing, and continuity. There are no “errors” per se, but the excessive “wordiness” draws the reader out of the moment (editing), pacing is very slow, the dialogue lacks realism (continuity). Perhaps it’s a little thing, but simple changes like using a conjunction like “don’t” instead of “do not” take away from flow of the story.
There’s an old adage that applies: an author needs to write 100,000 words in order to have an 80,000 word novel. This story falls into that trap. As good as the concept, general writing, and the plot execution was, there was about 20% of the novel that should have been left out in order to keep the reader engaged.
3.75 stars
December 11, 2018
I always love a good life after death story and this one was fantastic. Nothing seems to be wrong with Adrianna, until one day when she dies at a bus stop. Watching her family and friends from a place known as Middle World, she encounters a person she had met only once during her time on Earth, an entity known as Johnathan who she both loves and despises. As the story progresses, Adrianna finds herself trapped in the middle of angels and evil. This is a book that will keep you turning the pages, especially since it has all the essentials for a great read including suspense, romance, and a brilliant protagonist.
September 27, 2018
The story is about Adrianna who is dead. Dead and having to make a choice. From an ordinary high school girl to become the savior is not easy. She has choices to make, paths to choose and find out who is right and who is wrong. The author had very beautifully weaved in hope and pathos. The sadness of death to being a powerful creature. The author has done a wonderful job in the transition of the character. Slowly Adrianna is pulled into a world of secrecy which only Jonathan seems to be aware of. The author has brought into focus many social issues and it's heart-wrenching to read such tales. Overall I loved this book.
March 25, 2019
A Beautiful read
A very intriguing life after death story. I was hooked from the first page. I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
At seventeen Adrianna (Anna) died and was transported to a middle world where she met Johnathon. The two bonded together and fell in love. Their love story was beautiful and sweet. The author did a great job writing the characters. Anna was captivating, her story was full of emotions that I enjoyed so much. The book had a lot of other characters, good and evil that delivered depth to the story. The author did a remarkable job bringing this together beautifully. This was a book that I really enjoyed reading and I highly recommend.
A very intriguing life after death story. I was hooked from the first page. I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
At seventeen Adrianna (Anna) died and was transported to a middle world where she met Johnathon. The two bonded together and fell in love. Their love story was beautiful and sweet. The author did a great job writing the characters. Anna was captivating, her story was full of emotions that I enjoyed so much. The book had a lot of other characters, good and evil that delivered depth to the story. The author did a remarkable job bringing this together beautifully. This was a book that I really enjoyed reading and I highly recommend.
October 14, 2017
I saw a link for this book on Instagram attached to a beautiful picture that intrigued me. I am more of a horror novel reader than fantasy but I bought the e-book and I was not disappointed in my decision. When I Died is filled with deep and complex characters that you can "see" inside your mind as you read. The story grips you instantly and does not let go. I can't believe the author hasn't released book two yet and I am dying to read it. I did find a few syntax and grammar mistakes but not enough to take away from the book. I am a picky reader.
This new author is full of promise and I will read everything she writes. Her blogs on her website are heart-filled and emotional but engaging and educating. I can see "When I Died" as a movie as the story and characters would be amazing in live action. This is an incredible debut novel and I hope it gains the popularity it deserves.
This new author is full of promise and I will read everything she writes. Her blogs on her website are heart-filled and emotional but engaging and educating. I can see "When I Died" as a movie as the story and characters would be amazing in live action. This is an incredible debut novel and I hope it gains the popularity it deserves.
April 17, 2019
Engaging read...
Well written and engaging read that draws you into the story. I love that we get to hear the inner workings of their minds. Ms. Eckert does a wonderful job covering grief and can recommend to any paranormal readers.
Looking forward to reading more from her...
Well written and engaging read that draws you into the story. I love that we get to hear the inner workings of their minds. Ms. Eckert does a wonderful job covering grief and can recommend to any paranormal readers.
Looking forward to reading more from her...
June 25, 2018
Good book
Premise was so unique! I enjoyed the spin this author took on a topic that could’ve been similar to others. Def recommend checking it out.
Premise was so unique! I enjoyed the spin this author took on a topic that could’ve been similar to others. Def recommend checking it out.
December 26, 2018
I purchased When I Died months before I ever read it. It sat in my “to-be-read” pile with my good intentions, but life got in the way. Finally, after finishing another book, I knew I must bump this book to the top as I was intrigued by the concept. I really wanted to like it, but I wasn’t sure if I would as this is not a genre I would typically buy. Anxious, I dug in, only to find this was not a book I would have to read, but a book I wanted to read. Eckert has a way with words that blows me away. What is even more surprising is that this is her first novel. Her prose paints a descriptive picture in your mind and places you there, yet also allows your imagination to fill in the details. In this novel, main character Adrianna is extremely likable and Eckert does a fabulous job telling the story through Adrianna’s teen thoughts and eyes. What made this story even more unique is the inclusion of Adrianna’s random thoughts added in parentheses, which I don’t see often, but it made the character even more real and endearing to me. Eckert takes us through the story with alternating first and third person perspective, which I really enjoyed. As the story ramped up towards the end, I could not stop turning the pages. Surprise after surprise hit me as the blanks began to quickly fill in and I was blown away by the out-of-control freight-train ride I was on through the final chapters. The ending was huge and left me longing for more, which made me grateful to turn the page and see Eckert is working on the next book in the series. I will definitely be buying it when it comes out as Eckert has just etched her name on my “I will always read any book by this author” list. Few have made the list before her. Nicely done.
January 25, 2019
Better than any book in the Twilight Series! Blown away!
This is the first time I've ever been speechless--wordless--after reading a book. It has taken me a few minutes to figure out what to write.
Anna, a normal girl with a normal life until she dies and finds herself in a place between Heaven and Earth. A place where souls can still watch over their loved ones on Earth. There she meets the love of her life.... or death. He's her eternity, but eternity has other plans for her. Plans Anna will use her newly found powers to manipulate, even if it means dying a final death. Because being without Jonathan would be worse than that.
When Jonathan learns that the place he and other souls reside will be destroyed and that Anna is the key to saving all of them, he watches her from above awaiting her arrival. When he realizes that over the long years he's studied her that he's fallen in love with her, he's forced to make difficult choices that could result in her hating him for eternity. He balances duty with the sacred bond he has with her, in a selfless attempt to save her even if it means his final death.
Anna, Jonathan, Dierdre...amazingly fleshed-out characters. Fast-paced, in-depth scenes that completely drew me away from my world. I felt like I was in Middle-Earth, with them, fighting all their battles, crying with them, laughing with them, as if I were right beside them. This was SOOOO BEAUTIFUL! If there's not another book, I'm likely to write a strongly-worded letter to the author and never read again.
PS It was hard to write a review without giving away this book. All I have to say is if you have a chance to read this, please do so. It's thought-provoking and will be a best-seller and a movie eventually. I can feel it in my soul. Happy reading!
This is the first time I've ever been speechless--wordless--after reading a book. It has taken me a few minutes to figure out what to write.
Anna, a normal girl with a normal life until she dies and finds herself in a place between Heaven and Earth. A place where souls can still watch over their loved ones on Earth. There she meets the love of her life.... or death. He's her eternity, but eternity has other plans for her. Plans Anna will use her newly found powers to manipulate, even if it means dying a final death. Because being without Jonathan would be worse than that.
When Jonathan learns that the place he and other souls reside will be destroyed and that Anna is the key to saving all of them, he watches her from above awaiting her arrival. When he realizes that over the long years he's studied her that he's fallen in love with her, he's forced to make difficult choices that could result in her hating him for eternity. He balances duty with the sacred bond he has with her, in a selfless attempt to save her even if it means his final death.
Anna, Jonathan, Dierdre...amazingly fleshed-out characters. Fast-paced, in-depth scenes that completely drew me away from my world. I felt like I was in Middle-Earth, with them, fighting all their battles, crying with them, laughing with them, as if I were right beside them. This was SOOOO BEAUTIFUL! If there's not another book, I'm likely to write a strongly-worded letter to the author and never read again.
PS It was hard to write a review without giving away this book. All I have to say is if you have a chance to read this, please do so. It's thought-provoking and will be a best-seller and a movie eventually. I can feel it in my soul. Happy reading!
August 7, 2018
First of all, I must say that the beginning of this story was extremely unorthodox and intriguing. I mean, not every story starts with the main character dying and trying to figure out what to do next in their… afterlife? Afterdeath? The protagonist, Adriana, was just as confused as I was, watching her dead body from above and regretting all of the things that she didn’t do or say on the last day of her existence. Soon, however, things start making sense as an old acquaintance Johnathan (who also happens to be dead) makes his appearance and tells Adriana of the old prophecy and of her role in it. Formerly an ordinary teenager, she’s tasked with nothing less but saving the world itself. Only, she’s not too sure that this is something she is capable of, since her enemy happens to be the Dark Angel himself…
“When I Died” was so interesting to read not only due to the compelling plot but also because it dwells on such relevant social issues as teenage drug abuse, domestic abuse, parents/children problems and how important it is to have a good friend who always has your back. Adriana was a very likable character - kind, selfless, confused at times and ready to sacrifice herself for the sake of the world that needs her. Really enjoyed this one.
“When I Died” was so interesting to read not only due to the compelling plot but also because it dwells on such relevant social issues as teenage drug abuse, domestic abuse, parents/children problems and how important it is to have a good friend who always has your back. Adriana was a very likable character - kind, selfless, confused at times and ready to sacrifice herself for the sake of the world that needs her. Really enjoyed this one.
March 7, 2019
A transcending experience
Intriguing beginning. The characters are beautifully written—the good and the evil ones—almost palpable! A brilliant inside into teenagers’ psyche. An emotion-evoking story. Jonathan’s sacrifice at the end of the book shattered my heart. The fluid pace of the narrative is quite appropriate for this type of novels.
While reading the book, I caught myself on drawing parallels to “this” life—so much of the realities of our everyday existence in this exceptional “fantasy” novel. There is a strong message in it too, and I think it is aimed not only at YA readers. I think adults may find something to dwell upon too. I enjoyed reading When I Died very much. Highly recommended.
Intriguing beginning. The characters are beautifully written—the good and the evil ones—almost palpable! A brilliant inside into teenagers’ psyche. An emotion-evoking story. Jonathan’s sacrifice at the end of the book shattered my heart. The fluid pace of the narrative is quite appropriate for this type of novels.
While reading the book, I caught myself on drawing parallels to “this” life—so much of the realities of our everyday existence in this exceptional “fantasy” novel. There is a strong message in it too, and I think it is aimed not only at YA readers. I think adults may find something to dwell upon too. I enjoyed reading When I Died very much. Highly recommended.
November 10, 2017
Where do I begin? Elizabeth Eckert thank you for an amazing book. This book takes you on a ride like you have never before and makes you think life and what maybe out there when we do leave. Adrianna does just ups and dies. Why? Watching everything happening around her. Then Jonathan is there not sure actually who he is about he is aware that Adrianna is not just another death and not someone that can be ignored as to why. You will not be able to put this book down once you turn the first page. What happens to Adrianna? Why is Jonathan here? Who is Dierdre? Guess you need to purchase this book and find out. Well done Elizabeth Eckert.
August 12, 2018
This is an interesting take on death and the afterlife. It doesn't really adhere to one religion. On one hand, you have Lucifer, archangels, and a purgatory of sorts, but you also have reincarnation that is also in the mix.
There are parts of the story that are really sweet and Adrianna is a pure soul, but the book also goes to dark places with several social issues like grief, child abuse, drug abuse, and suicide. They are all handled with grace and delicately. I'd be interested to see if this is going to be turned into a longer series and there were questions unanswered and after that ended, I want to know what happened to certain characters
There are parts of the story that are really sweet and Adrianna is a pure soul, but the book also goes to dark places with several social issues like grief, child abuse, drug abuse, and suicide. They are all handled with grace and delicately. I'd be interested to see if this is going to be turned into a longer series and there were questions unanswered and after that ended, I want to know what happened to certain characters
January 5, 2019
I could not put this book down. I just kept finding myself wanting to know what was going to happen. Elizabeth Eckert's writing is beautiful and poetic and the story she created is equally beautiful and poetic. The love between Anna and Jonathan is one of the most beautiful loves I have ever read about.
Anna was a captivating main character and I enjoyed the fact that she did not have everything figured out the moment she died. She had to search for the answers and truly learn to use the power she was given. I enjoy stories like that. Not to mention a female protagonist who is well-rounded and complicated. I enjoyed her very, very much.
There is so much more I want to say but I try my hardest to leave spoiler free reviews. All I will say is that you will not regret reading this book. It's a wonderful twist on the "angels and demons" theme.
Anna was a captivating main character and I enjoyed the fact that she did not have everything figured out the moment she died. She had to search for the answers and truly learn to use the power she was given. I enjoy stories like that. Not to mention a female protagonist who is well-rounded and complicated. I enjoyed her very, very much.
There is so much more I want to say but I try my hardest to leave spoiler free reviews. All I will say is that you will not regret reading this book. It's a wonderful twist on the "angels and demons" theme.
August 8, 2018
A beautifully written story that grabbed me from the first page and kept me there in my chair reading until I finished it, because I had to know what happens next. Well done!
May 2, 2019
A really different look at romance. After death! Doesn't sound as though it's going to work out well for any of the characters but the author does a brilliant job of spinning this tale, with in depth emotions portrayed throughout. I couldn't put the book down in the end. Adrianna and Jonathan's love story is a heartwarming read though the concept of waiting for someone to die does need getting your head around to begin with. Loved all the descriptions, the scenery, and the struggles encountered along the way. The writing style is lovely too. Really pulls you along without being over the top with a nice amount of tension threaded throughout. Loved it!
January 3, 2018
Goodreads First Reads
Lovely, ethereal writing quality. I found it very relaxing to follow the story even during tense scenes, the writing was quite calming.
Interested to see what the sequel holds.
Lovely, ethereal writing quality. I found it very relaxing to follow the story even during tense scenes, the writing was quite calming.
Interested to see what the sequel holds.
February 22, 2019
A captivating and unique book!
This book was a joy to read. I was on the edge of my seat from page one. Suspense, romance, wonderful writing and so much more. I will be looking forward to reading more from this author!
This book was a joy to read. I was on the edge of my seat from page one. Suspense, romance, wonderful writing and so much more. I will be looking forward to reading more from this author!
January 27, 2018
received this book as a goodreads giveaway and felt it only fair to give an honest review. The author creates a beautiful image of what the afterlife is like for Adrianna and the conflict and confusion she felt was well written. I enjoy reading different takes on the afterlife and the roles of angels, heaven and hell even though it is fiction it is reassuring to read about these things to some people . One personal critique i do have is I feel this book was a little too romance heavy for me and and the character of Adrianna and Johnathan were a little too loved up very quickly. I do understand though that many people will love that aspect. i would particularly recommend this for people who enjoy books exploring the afterlife and enjoy a good love story.
September 30, 2018
This book I also read I high school. It gives a great sense of wonder in what will happen after we die. Where do we go what happens to our bodies or souls? The main character dies and seems to have a purpose to fulfill. She goes from high school student to savior. The book has a theme of hope, to change what seems unchangeable. The author took great time and care with this book. I will defiantly be recommending this book to stunts, friends, and family in the future. Though I do not see a chance to use it in the class room. I would like to keep it on my personal library shelf to give to people when I see fit. I do not see using this book in a teaching method or during class. Overall, I loved this book in high school and I love it even more now.
February 4, 2019
Great Story
Adrianna, the main protagonist in this story, is an innocent young girl when she mysteriously dies at a bus stop. Jonathan is waiting in the wings to help her into the next world. Unbeknown to Adrianna, Jonathan has known her since before she was born - confused? It soon made sense as I got deeper into the story. Adrianna, although she doesn't know it, is the special one the other side have been awaiting. Jonathan and Adrianna prove that, in spite of death, love conquers. Looking forward to Book 2.
Adrianna, the main protagonist in this story, is an innocent young girl when she mysteriously dies at a bus stop. Jonathan is waiting in the wings to help her into the next world. Unbeknown to Adrianna, Jonathan has known her since before she was born - confused? It soon made sense as I got deeper into the story. Adrianna, although she doesn't know it, is the special one the other side have been awaiting. Jonathan and Adrianna prove that, in spite of death, love conquers. Looking forward to Book 2.
November 26, 2018
Eckert writes a provocative and compelling story of a world—not unlike our own... A world doomed to destruction unless one person—Adrianna—can stop the evil that threatens it’s existence. Eckert’s plotline is filled with metaphysical undertones, giving readers a unique look at an Afterlife that can be compared to the Christian Limbo—a heavenly waiting room where souls bide their time until the Second Coming when they will gain entry into Heaven. Eckert has shaped a strange and wonderful tale around this place, taking this stationary and static existence and supplanting it with one that can be impacted by the motivations of a single group of individuals—along with one redeeming angel.
Many will read “When I Died” and find a satisfying romance in this fantasy tale. But on a deeper level, Eckert’s story presents a thought-provoking journey of the soul that generates many more questions about what happens to us—our essence—after death and what our destinies truly mean in the grand scheme of things. This tale is really about transformation and redemption. Although approaching Eckert’s story from a philosophical angle makes this tale is a difficult read since questions of theology, morality, and philosophy are never really answered, the author does manage to provoke curiosity in those who wish to delve into issues of the Afterlife; questions of our existence beyond mortality and what more there might possibly be waiting for us in the Great Beyond.
There are sections of this novel that do run on excessively, with the characters’ inner dialogue either motivating or degrading their own existences. Although this introspective chatter does serve a purpose in demonstrating each character’s thought process and motivations, their diatribes are much too repetitive, contributing little to the overall advancement of the plotline. There are also a few grammatical errors in Eckert’s novel, but these should not detract a reader from the overall enjoyment of the novel.
All in all, “When I Died” is a fascinating look into the Afterworld, with adult themes, violence, and sexual content. I would recommend this story to readers age 17 and up.
Many will read “When I Died” and find a satisfying romance in this fantasy tale. But on a deeper level, Eckert’s story presents a thought-provoking journey of the soul that generates many more questions about what happens to us—our essence—after death and what our destinies truly mean in the grand scheme of things. This tale is really about transformation and redemption. Although approaching Eckert’s story from a philosophical angle makes this tale is a difficult read since questions of theology, morality, and philosophy are never really answered, the author does manage to provoke curiosity in those who wish to delve into issues of the Afterlife; questions of our existence beyond mortality and what more there might possibly be waiting for us in the Great Beyond.
There are sections of this novel that do run on excessively, with the characters’ inner dialogue either motivating or degrading their own existences. Although this introspective chatter does serve a purpose in demonstrating each character’s thought process and motivations, their diatribes are much too repetitive, contributing little to the overall advancement of the plotline. There are also a few grammatical errors in Eckert’s novel, but these should not detract a reader from the overall enjoyment of the novel.
All in all, “When I Died” is a fascinating look into the Afterworld, with adult themes, violence, and sexual content. I would recommend this story to readers age 17 and up.
June 15, 2018
Richly imaginative and compelling, “When I Died” is an after-death love and adventure story with dark forces creating suspense and turmoil. A prevailing air of mystery in the story adds to its allure, and there is definitely a what-happens-next aspect that propels the story along. There’s also a truly charming quality in the story, especially in the voice of young Adrianna (Anna), who is only 17 when she dies. Elizabeth Eckert has Anna’s voice just right—from the somewhat petulance of her first few days being dead, to her compassion for her little sister, and on through the story to her growing love of Jonathan. Anna and Jonathan have to make some heart-wrenching choices, especially in the climax, that make their characters all the more intriguing. Readers will watch Anna grow up and mature—even if she is technically dead. People back on the earth—especially Anna's beloved friend Willie—also have important roles in the story and create suspense and drama in the book. Well done, with some surprising twists and a not-what-I-expected ending, which of course will pull me into the sequel. The writing is lovely, with a lyrical quality to the language, and Eckert excels in creating another world for her readers. A thought-provoking tale, and even though it does not follow traditional Christian or Jewish beliefs, it’s a surprisingly spiritual book.
June 15, 2018
Richly imaginative and compelling, “When I Died” is an after-death love and adventure story with dark forces creating suspense and turmoil. An air of mystery in the story adds to its quality, and there is definitely a what-happens-next aspect that propels the story along. There’s also a truly charming quality in the story, especially in the voice of young Adrianna (Anna), who is only 17 when she dies. Elizabeth Eckert has Anna’s voice just right—from the somewhat petulance of her first few days being dead, to her compassion for her little sister, and on through the story to her growing love of Jonathan. Anna and Jonathan have to make some heart-wrenching choices, especially in the climax, that make their characters all the more intriguing. Readers will watch Anna grow up and mature—even if she is technically dead. People back on the earth—especially Anna's beloved friend Willie—also have important roles in the story and create suspense and drama in the book. Well done, with some surprising twists and a not-what-I-expected ending, which of course will pull me into the sequel. The writing is lovely, with a lyrical quality to the language, and Eckert excels in creating another world for her readers. A thought-provoking tale, and even though it does not follow traditional Christian or Jewish beliefs, it’s a surprisingly spiritual book.
September 25, 2018
The first in Elizabeth Eckert's series, When I Died introduces Adrianna, a seventeen-year-old girl who begins the story by, well, dying. Her death wasn't expected, and when she dies, she doesn't move on as we discover so many souls do. Instead, she's whisked away to the middle world where she meets Jonathan and learns that her death might not have been as accidental as she believed. Why? Because it turns out that she's prophesied to save the middle world she ended up in!
A lot to put on the shoulders of a seventeen-year-old who never thought she was special.
Eckert's novel is filled with beautiful prose and lavish descriptions, all designed to bring the reader into Adrianna's new world. I really enjoyed how she alternated from 1st person POV (Adrianna's POV) to 3rd person to show how the main character thought of herself vs. how the other characters thought of her. The author's use of parenthetical comments really brought her teenage personality to life, especially when it came to the addition of pop culture references.
The added subplot of what was happening to Willie back on Earth was intriguing. I never expected the book would end the way it did -- even if the clues were there in the form of Deirdre's visions and drawings -- and was pleasantly surprised at the resolution. Even though I now want to see what happens next for Adrianna and Jonathan.
A lot to put on the shoulders of a seventeen-year-old who never thought she was special.
Eckert's novel is filled with beautiful prose and lavish descriptions, all designed to bring the reader into Adrianna's new world. I really enjoyed how she alternated from 1st person POV (Adrianna's POV) to 3rd person to show how the main character thought of herself vs. how the other characters thought of her. The author's use of parenthetical comments really brought her teenage personality to life, especially when it came to the addition of pop culture references.
The added subplot of what was happening to Willie back on Earth was intriguing. I never expected the book would end the way it did -- even if the clues were there in the form of Deirdre's visions and drawings -- and was pleasantly surprised at the resolution. Even though I now want to see what happens next for Adrianna and Jonathan.
August 18, 2018
A very unique life after death love story. Adrianna has her whole life ahead of her at sixteen, but one fateful night at a bus stop she dies. She's transported to a middle world that is neither heaven or hell and eventually obtains a body that never needs to sleep or eat. There she meets Johnathon a boy she met once at a ball game that left a profound impression on her. Johnathon knows things about Adrianna. She has a purpose in the middle world and it's to save it and all it's inhabitants. Everyone is touting Adrianna as special but she just sees herself as an ordinary teenager. As she embarks on a journey to find her true self, Johnathon is with her every step of the way. The two form a deep bond and fall in love. But will that love be able to last for eternity or will dark forces tear them apart?
This was really a sweet story full of love, hope and redemption and lots of self sacrificing for the sake of love.
This was really a sweet story full of love, hope and redemption and lots of self sacrificing for the sake of love.
January 10, 2019
When I Died was a very unique story, and in the beginning, I was on the edge of my seat, and couldn’t wait to see what would happen to Adrianna, when she was about to ‘move on’ to another place! And getting hints she had a special role…Such an intrigueing premise! On the critique side, I thought the middle part and some of the narrative could have been faster-paced, but on the other hand, getting to know people’s thoughts and motives also brought them close. Most of all in the whole book I loved the heartbreaking stories of Willie and Deirdre. Oh, I hurt and cried for them, knowing these stories happen in real life. On a final note, I would have liked to see the evil antagonist (not saying names, to avoid spoilers), be pulled into the story earlier, and given a more action-oriented role. All in all, a unique, intriguing story!
January 9, 2018
How do I review this book? I love fantasy as well as the next person, but not when it distorts truth to the extent that this author wrote. Is about an alternate place when one dies. Is no alternate place. Only Heaven and hell. Lucifer has been defeated once and for all by Jesus. His only power is deception and lies. Am concerned for those reading this book to be carried away by the imagination of untruths. Cant be true to myself if I don't speak about this. There is only one truth, One God, and one Savior. If you read this story keep the truth in mind. Am also concerned for the author and her family as the imagination is out in left field. We get only one shot at this life. Only one time around. There are no do-overs. Choose your path today. Thanks to Goodreads.
November 6, 2018
An intriguing story
It's always an interesting read when the main character is dead. You get to see what she is experiencing as Anna observes her death scene at a bus as well as her own funeral as many emotions plays out but unbeknownst to her, her journey is only beginning. Actually it gets a jump start from Jonathan, a dead guy with a soulmate connection to Anna, when he places a magical necklace around her lifeless neck. Anna finds her way to a new realm where souls go and the more she learns, the more there are secrets waiting around every corner and not all are pleasant. There's plenty of drama and romance to keep you turning the pages just to see what happens next. I lives it and highly recommend this one!
It's always an interesting read when the main character is dead. You get to see what she is experiencing as Anna observes her death scene at a bus as well as her own funeral as many emotions plays out but unbeknownst to her, her journey is only beginning. Actually it gets a jump start from Jonathan, a dead guy with a soulmate connection to Anna, when he places a magical necklace around her lifeless neck. Anna finds her way to a new realm where souls go and the more she learns, the more there are secrets waiting around every corner and not all are pleasant. There's plenty of drama and romance to keep you turning the pages just to see what happens next. I lives it and highly recommend this one!
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