The Mark by Jen Nadol

Title: The Mark
Author: Jen Nadol
Published: January 2010
Pages: 228
ISBN: 9781599904313
Source: Other Shelf Tours

Description: Cassandra Renfield has always seen the mark—a glow around certain people reminiscent of candlelight. But the one time she mentioned it, it was dismissed as a trick of the light. Until the day she watches a man awash in the mark die. After searching her memories, Cassie realizes she can see a person’s imminent death. Not how or where, only when: today.   Armed with a vague understanding of the light, Cassie begins to explore her “gift,” seeking those marked for death and probing the line between decision and destiny. Though she’s careful to hide her secret—even from her new philosophy-obsessed boyfriend—with each impending death comes the temptation to test fate. But so many questions remain. How does the mark work? Why is she the only one who sees it? And finally, the most important of all: If you know today is someone’s last, should you tell them?

I Give This Book 4.5 Stars!

I enjoyed so many things about this book.  Cassie is a fantastic narrative.  She's been through a lot and those experiences define who she is.  Her relationships reflect that as well.  She cares for those around her deeply, but she doesn't let them control her.  And in this regards, there is no love struck teenager who can't live without their "soul mate" in this book.  The relationships she does have are completely more realistic.  The problem presented of being able to see a mark on the day of someone's death is presented a very real way.  And, Cassie never takes this lightly.  After she realizes what it means, each time she sees it basically become imprinted on her.  Knowing next to nothing about philosophy, I was surprised how much I liked the debate on which side to take on if Cassie should tell the person or not.  It was a very thought out part of the story.  Add in the little bit of fantasy in the form of mythology, and you've got a wonderful book from cover to cover!