Passage

Passage by Connie Willis is for adults, but only because of a heavy overarching theme of death. 

It's an amazing premise (expecially having read 90 Minutes in Heaven and part of Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back).  Joanna Lander and Richard Wright are scientists researching NDEs (Near Death Experiences) using a drug that imitates NDEs.  When only a few of their volunteers are able to produce useful data, Joanna has to be "sent under."  She sees the Titanic, and she wonders what the connection is between this ancient ship and the NDE.  When she realizes the significance, she goes to find Dr. Wright.  Instead, she meets tragedy.  Dr. Wright, Kit, and Vielle must find answers - and quickly.  They were too late to save Joanna, but there are others on the brink of death as well . . .

Stars:  8.5 for its suspense, premise, and such. 

Violence:  6; Greg tries to force Joanna to show him where the lifeboats are. 

Romance:  7.  Some of the nurses find Dr. Wright "cute" and Vielle tries to do some matchmaking, but not much. 

Language:  7 or 8.  S-words and such. 

Recommended for:  older teens and adults