Review by Stephanie Elizabeth -- Final Notice

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 26 Apr 2019, 12:26

[Following is a volunteer review of "Final Notice" by Van Fleisher.]

4 out of 4 stars

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We have all heard people emphasize the importance of living every day to the fullest and enjoying every moment. These things are said in the hopes that they will prepare and help us accept our inevitable demise. The truth is, no one can really be prepared for it when death comes knocking. Unless of course, we are given a warning. Our own personal countdown to our final day.

What would you do in your final days? Would you say good-bye to loved ones and make appropriate arrangements? Would you spend all your money on that trip you have always wanted to take? Maybe the notice would take you to a much darker place. Would you seek revenge if you knew there would be no repercussions?

In Final Notice, the author describes a world where senseless acts of violence are taken out on the most vulnerable groups. Senior citizens, women, and minorities are the targets of brutality, leaving them feeling helpless. The use of guns for protection is encouraged to every American, and the NRA is adding fuel to the fire, by reiterating the importance of the second amendment. They are even providing a discount to seniors purchasing guns. Meanwhile, technology is rapidly improving, and a new sports watch called, VT2 is on the market. This product promises to be the next best thing, measuring its user’s vitals and even giving them a 30-day death notice. The purpose of the notice is to provide the user with adequate time to say good-bye to loved ones and finalize any end-of-life arrangements. Unfortunately, there is a problem. Several unexplained shootings causing death have been reported throughout the country. Upon further analysis, it seems they have one connection, the VT2.

Final Notice by Van Fleisher had my complete attention from start to finish. I thought this book was extremely relevant to the current state of the world. Mass shootings continue to plague the country, but citizens are reluctant to give up their guns. In the book, scare tactics are used to promote the NRA’s agenda. Sell more guns. Although this is a fiction book, the issues addressed are so relatable.

The thing I enjoyed most about Final Notice was its emphasis on choice and moral dilemma. When characters are given the 30-day death notice, they are angry and looking for retribution. Many of them own guns and are desperate to channel that anger. The author does a fantastic job describing the inner battle that these characters face.

I connected to each of the characters, but in particular, Trudi. She was a strong woman, who took pride in being a good citizen and always doing the right thing. However, when a series of unfortunate events negatively impacted her family, her morals were thoroughly tested.

The book was well-edited and I did not find any errors. The author definitely had my attention and I read the book quickly. I give the book a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. I would recommend it to anyone living in the United States right now. Politicians, educators, immigrants, supporters of the NRA, and activists would all benefit from reading this book.

I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this exciting book!

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Final Notice
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Post by **kandscreeley** » 07 May 2019, 08:17

It's definitely an interesting concept. A watch that lets you know when your death is close. It does make you think about what people would do. Your review is intriguing, and I'm glad to see you enjoyed the book. Thanks for your thoughts.

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 07 May 2019, 18:13

kandscreeley wrote: ↑07 May 2019, 08:17 It's definitely an interesting concept. A watch that lets you know when your death is close. It does make you think about what people would do. Your review is intriguing, and I'm glad to see you enjoyed the book. Thanks for your thoughts.

Yes, I thought it was quite a unique premise for a story! The concept is definitely a conversation starter! Thanks for your comment!

Bianka Walter · Post by **Bianka Walter** » 08 May 2019, 03:19

I agree, this story is very relevant in today's world.
I really enjoyed this review, thanks!

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 08 May 2019, 05:29

Bianka Walter wrote: ↑08 May 2019, 03:19 I agree, this story is very relevant in today's world.
I really enjoyed this review, thanks!

Thanks very much for your comment!

Delaney35 · Post by **Delaney35** » 08 May 2019, 08:36

This book is very relevant and I also enjoyed it. Great review!

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 08 May 2019, 11:01

Delaney35 wrote: ↑08 May 2019, 08:36 This book is very relevant and I also enjoyed it. Great review!

Thank you!

Bluebird03 · Post by **Bluebird03** » 08 May 2019, 15:20

I also read this book and enjoyed it. There were so many plots occurring simultaneously, that it made for a very fast read. And I appreciate your very engaging and insightful review! Great job!

Prisallen · Post by **Prisallen** » 09 May 2019, 14:07

I read this book as well and I also enjoyed it. I agree with the author that there are too many guns in the hands of the wrong people. Less violence and more compassion are needed. Thank you for a wonderful review!

unamilagra · Post by **unamilagra** » 09 May 2019, 18:02

Such an interesting concept for a novel. Personally, I can't imagine wasting any time in the last weeks of my life seeking revenge, but I like your comment about Trudi, which makes me think that maybe in the right circumstances my outlook would change. Great review!

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 10 May 2019, 12:18

unamilagra wrote: ↑09 May 2019, 18:02 Such an interesting concept for a novel. Personally, I can't imagine wasting any time in the last weeks of my life seeking revenge, but I like your comment about Trudi, which makes me think that maybe in the right circumstances my outlook would change. Great review!

Thanks for your comment!

Post by **Pauline Parnell** » 26 Feb 2023, 01:05

Final Notice is a fast-read action packed novel. It focuses on acts persons commit during their final days on earth. Do they choose to do good or do they seek revenge? Interesting concept but not far from reality. I appreciate you review.