Sweet Valley High #122

A Kiss Before Dying

... Show More
Jessica Wakefield promises eternal love to gang member Christian Gorman when the latter promises to never fight again, while Elizabeth and her friend Rosie Shaw scheme to end gang warfare once and for all.

197 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published February 1,1996

This edition

Format
197 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published
February 1, 1996 by Bantam
ISBN
9780553566406
ASIN
0553566407
Language
English

About the author

... Show More

Community Reviews

Rating(4.3 / 5.0, 13 votes)
5 stars
6(46%)
4 stars
5(38%)
3 stars
2(15%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
13 reviews All reviews
July 15,2025
... Show More
This was truly very dramatic.

The awarding of three stars is specifically for Christian.

Elizabeth was extremely annoying in this situation. She continuously planned things that repeatedly backfired not only on herself but also on her friends. She is so naïve that she trusts someone even when her instincts are clearly telling her not to.

Of course, when Jessica finally falls in love, one has to remove him from the picture, doesn't one? So that we can have the two-timing Jessica back?

The epilogue, on the other hand, was rather nice. It provided a sense of closure and a final look at the characters and their situations. It was a fitting end to the story, tying up loose ends and leaving the reader with a sense of satisfaction.

Overall, the story had its ups and downs, with some characters being more likable than others. However, it was an engaging read that kept the reader's attention from beginning to end.
July 15,2025
... Show More

I vividly remember loving this particular book when I was a teenager. It was like a precious gem that shone brightly in my literary world. I can still recall every detail of the story, as if it happened just yesterday. In fact, I even remember how the tragedy occurs! The emotions it evoked in me were so intense that they have stayed with me all these years.


For that reason, I'm giving it 4 stars. It's not just a book; it's a trip down memory lane, a reminder of the innocent and passionate days of my youth. The nostalgia it brings is overwhelming, and it makes me appreciate the power of literature to touch our hearts and souls.


Although the book may not be perfect in every aspect, its significance to me is immeasurable. It has become a part of my personal history, and I will always cherish the memories it has given me.

July 15,2025
... Show More
I really liked this book of this sequence of the series, even though it's heartwrenching.

I initially started reading it simply to learn about Christian, one of Jessica's true loves. However, he was so much more than that.

The story vividly shows how even small differences in viewpoints can turn ugly if not approached with openness. It also portrays Jess's grief, but at the same time, her growth. Additionally, it reveals the cracks in Liz and Todd's relationship.

Though, one can't help but wonder where the "parental units" were when all of this was happening. It makes you question the role of parents in such complex situations.

Overall, this book offers a deep and thought-provoking exploration of love, loss, and the consequences of closed-mindedness. It keeps you engaged from start to finish and leaves you with a lot to think about.
July 15,2025
... Show More
Look,

Was this book great? Probably not.

But do I still remember the NEED to go to Barnes & Noble with my allowance money and get this when I was 10? Absolutely.

This book holds a special place in my heart not because of its literary excellence but because of the memories associated with it. As a 10-year-old, I would eagerly save my allowance to buy this book at Barnes & Noble. The anticipation of walking into the store, the smell of new books, and the excitement of finding this particular one were all part of the experience. Even though the book itself may not have been a masterpiece, the emotions and memories it evokes are priceless. That's why I rate it 5 stars. It's not about the quality of the book but about the significance it has in my life.
July 15,2025
... Show More
I was sorting through some of my old books when I chanced upon this one.

It suddenly dawned on me that I had completely forgotten about my intense love for Sweet Valley High when I was a young teen.

At that time, these books were like a magical escape into a world of teenage drama and excitement.

However, after growing up and experiencing more of life, I have become far more cynical.

While I still think these books can be quite enjoyable for teens, I would recommend leaving the reading of them to that age group.

For me now, they may hold some nostalgic value, but they don't have the same impact as they did when I was younger.

It's interesting to see how our perspectives change as we grow and mature.

Nevertheless, I'm glad I rediscovered this book and was able to take a trip down memory lane.

July 15,2025
... Show More
I BAWLED at the end of this book. I'm not even ashamed.

This book had such a profound impact on me that it brought me to tears. The story was so touching and engaging that I couldn't help but be overcome with emotion.

As I reached the final pages, the events that unfolded were so powerful that they tugged at my heartstrings. The characters had become so real to me that their fates felt like my own.

I didn't try to hold back my tears. Instead, I let them flow freely, allowing myself to fully experience the emotions that the book had evoked.

In the end, I was left with a sense of fulfillment and a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling. This book will stay with me for a long time, and I will cherish the memories it has given me.

So, no, I'm not ashamed of bawling at the end of this book. It was a cathartic experience that I wouldn't trade for anything.
July 15,2025
... Show More
Book 3 of the high school wars commences precisely where the previous book left off. Winston falls victim to an ambush set by the Palisades guys, and when the SVH guys catch on and arrive, a massive brawl erupts. Liz calls the police, only to be completely mortified when Todd is handcuffed and led into a police cruiser. He taunts Liz, essentially declaring his hatred for her. I must say, I've never been a fan of Todd.
July 15,2025
... Show More
This book brings the mini series, The High School Wars, to a conclusion within the broader SVH series. It is, however, my least favorite among the mini series, although that doesn't mean it's bad.

Kate William's writing is smooth and engaging, and the story builds suspense as the conflict between Palisades High and Sweet Valley High intensifies. Moreover, Jessica and Elizabeth face accusations from their SVH classmates. Jessica endures harsh judgment for dating Christian Gorman from Palisades, while Elizabeth is criticized for not supporting her boyfriend Todd during the SVH war.

This book offers a fair amount of suspense and intrigue. In contrast, the other books in the SVH series don't have such complex plot lines. It keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, wondering how the characters will navigate through the challenges and conflicts.

Overall, despite being my least favorite in the mini series, it still has its merits and is an enjoyable read for fans of the SVH series.
Leave a Review
You must be logged in to rate and post a review. Register an account to get started.