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Table of Contents
About The Book
What if you discovered the exact date of your death? Would you finally start living?
Perfect for fans of Beth O’Leary, David Nicholls and Matt Haig, this emotional, uplifting love story follows two strangers brought together by a life-changing experiment that forces them to confront what truly matters.
When OPM Discoveries launches The Life Experiment, promising clarity and purpose to those feeling lost, Layla and Angus sign up hoping for answers. Neither expects the shocking truth waiting for them: the experiment can predict when they will die.
Layla has spent her entire life fighting for stability. Now a successful corporate lawyer in London, she’s achieved everything she once dreamed of — except happiness. Trapped in endless workdays and terrified of losing control, she’s forgotten how to actually live.
Angus Fairview-Whitley was born into privilege, but after the death of his brother and the collapse of his future plans, he feels completely adrift. With his family expecting him to step into a life he no longer wants, Angus can’t escape the feeling that time is slipping through his fingers.
On the day they receive their devastating results, Layla and Angus meet by chance. Their connection is immediate, electric and impossible to ignore. But as the countdown to their futures begins, they must decide whether love is worth risking heartbreak — and whether knowing when life ends might finally teach them how to live.
Perfect for fans of Beth O’Leary, David Nicholls and Matt Haig, this emotional, uplifting love story follows two strangers brought together by a life-changing experiment that forces them to confront what truly matters.
When OPM Discoveries launches The Life Experiment, promising clarity and purpose to those feeling lost, Layla and Angus sign up hoping for answers. Neither expects the shocking truth waiting for them: the experiment can predict when they will die.
Layla has spent her entire life fighting for stability. Now a successful corporate lawyer in London, she’s achieved everything she once dreamed of — except happiness. Trapped in endless workdays and terrified of losing control, she’s forgotten how to actually live.
Angus Fairview-Whitley was born into privilege, but after the death of his brother and the collapse of his future plans, he feels completely adrift. With his family expecting him to step into a life he no longer wants, Angus can’t escape the feeling that time is slipping through his fingers.
On the day they receive their devastating results, Layla and Angus meet by chance. Their connection is immediate, electric and impossible to ignore. But as the countdown to their futures begins, they must decide whether love is worth risking heartbreak — and whether knowing when life ends might finally teach them how to live.
About The Author
Photograph © Jess Howell
Jess Kitching is an avid reader, writer and binge-watcher. Originally from Bradford, England, she lives in Canberra, Australia. Visit jesskitchingwrites.com or Instagram @jesskitchingwrites.
Product Details
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia (July 29, 2025)
- Length: 352 pages
- ISBN13: 9781761630323
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Raves and Reviews
‘From the very first page, I knew this book was special. The Life Experiment is a profound and thought-provoking story about the messiness of life with characters who will instantly capture your heart.’
– Christine Newell
‘Aching, tender and hopeful, The Life Experiment is a love story that beautifully balances sorrow and light. It will break your heart, then stitch it back together, stronger than before. This book is a reminder that how we spend our time, and who we spend it with, matters more than ever. Jess Kitching writes romance like she’s been breathing it her whole life. Let this be the first of many.’
– Holly Brunnbauer
‘Heartwarming and uplifting, The Life Experiment will make you think and swoon at the same time!’
– Rachael Johns
‘Characters you will embrace from the start. A story you will never forget. A big, bold novel that is not afraid to ask the question: what really matters in this life? And answers: maybe, just maybe, it is love.’
– Sophie Green
‘A dazzling romance with a fresh and original premise, The Life Experiment is equal parts thought-provoking and heartwarming. Layla and Angus are beautifully drawn leads, each carrying deep wounds and hidden fears, and searching for meaning. Their banter is joyful, their chemistry electric, and their journey together is both healing and hopeful. Brimming with insight, Jess Kitching explores what it means to truly live – asking the big questions and celebrating the small moments that make life worthwhile.’
– Anne Freeman
'Witty, thought-provoking and brimming with swoon-worthy banter, The Life Experiment is a delight!'
– Emma Grey
‘a love story with a difference … sure to make us ponder our own response to a finite timeline.’
– The Sun Herald
Resources and Downloads
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Book Cover Image (jpg): The Life Experiment
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Author Photo (jpg): Jess Kitching Photograph © Jess Howell(0.1 MB)
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