This story kicks off in high gear, with the protagonist, Janelle Tenner, being struck by an out-of-control pick-up truck. Miraculously, she does not die, but it is somehow resuscitated by Ben Michaels, a boy she's never looked twice at in school due to his loner (and "stoner") status. But why and how he saved her is the least of Janelle's concerns once she stumbles across some of her FBI father's files-mysterious murders where victims seem to suffer radiation, plus a countdown mechanism alluding that the world may end in mere days. 
 There were a lot of Veronica Mars meets X-Files vibes to this-action, mystery, detective work, etc. I've also heard comparisons to Fringe, but I haven't watched that show, so I can't speak to it. Regardless, this is a fast-paced mystery, where readers will continually wonder who is telling the truth and who is lying. The countdown headings on each chapter contributes to an addictive read, and the nearly 500 page novel seemed to fly by. Another nice touch, for me personally, was the ending. Major conflicts are resolved, but things do not end in a perfect bow. The characters are left to make difficult choices, battling between what their hearts want and what is right. Thriller and sci-fi fans should check this one out. 
 Originally posted here.