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The Life Experiment

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The Life Experiment

By: Jess Kitching
Narrated by: Victoria Fox, Sam Stafford
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About this listen

A poignant, life-affirming love story about two people whose lives are turned upside down when they enter an experiment that predicts when they will die. For fans of Beth O’Leary, David Nicholls and Matt Haig.

When OPM Discoveries puts out an ad seeking participants for The Life Experiment, a study that claims to help people searching for meaning, Layla and Angus are among those who apply. Little do they know they’re about to be told when they will die.

Layla, a corporate lawyer, has foregone all relationships for her career. Growing up on the poverty line, Layla fought tirelessly to better her circumstances, but stuck in the monotony of long hours, impossible deadlines and the London rat race, she wonders if happiness can be found behind a desk after all.

Angus, an esteemed Fairview-Whitley, is struggling with his family’s expectations after the death of his brother and a failed investment. Unsure what to do with his life, Angus is frozen in a cycle of late nights and lazy days, watching time pass him by.

Unaware that they are participating in the same experiment, Layla and Angus meet by chance the day they get their results. Their attraction is instant, but can they open their hearts to more when their time might be brief?

©2025 Jess Kitching (P)2025 Simon & Schuster Audio
Contemporary Science Fiction Heartfelt

Critic 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)

‘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)

All stars
Most relevant
There’s a heartbreak in enjoying feeling heartbreak through resonance with that of others; even when fictional.

An enlightening story of life viewed through the lens of death, imminent or otherwise.

Perhaps life is an experiment?

Marinate your soul within the words of this story.

The heartbreak in enjoying as such.

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What a beautiful, heart breaking & thought Provoking story. So well written & you're there with Layla & Angus feeling what they're both processing. Highly Recommend

Thought Provoking

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I devoured this book. This is going in my re-read pile - and I barely re-read the physical books unless they’re absolute favourites.

This characters felt so real, the way Jess writes makes me feel like I know them personally. I also felt like their reactions and development throughout this story felt real and not melodramatic which I appreciate.

This story is so heartwarming and I feel like such an important message that everyone should read.

At this point (sep 2025) - this is my favourite book of year.

I will buying the physical copies be gifting to many friends for Christmas.

My favourite book and audio book of the year

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