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The Life Experiment

About The Book

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 it can predict when people will die, two strangers searching for meaning apply.

Layla, a corporate lawyer, has foregone all relationships for her career, stuck in an endless cycle of late nights, impossible deadlines and the London rat race. Growing up on the poverty line, Layla has fought tirelessly to better her circumstances. But with work grinding her down, she wonders if happiness can be found behind a desk after all.

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

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

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

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