Before the Fall by Noah Hawley has garnered praise for its compelling narrative and well-developed characters. Critics appreciate its mix of suspense and literary fiction, highlighting the emotional depth and sharp social commentary. However, some readers feel the pacing is uneven with a few plot points that may seem contrived. Overall, it's a gripping and thought-provoking read.

A reader who would enjoy Before the Fall by Noah Hawley is likely captivated by suspenseful narratives, intricate character studies, and unexpected twists. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl or Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train will appreciate Hawley's skillful blending of mystery, drama, and psychological depth.

Before the Fall by Noah Hawley details the aftermath of a deadly and mysterious plane crash, alternating between the event's present-tense unfolding and past-tense accounts of the passengers' lives. Survivors Scott Burroughs and young JJ Bateman navigate the ensuing media frenzy and complicated inheritance issues, while investigators uncover layers of intrigue surrounding the cause of the crash.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Dark / Contemplative / Emotional

- Before the Fall by Noah Hawley won the 2017 Edgar Award for Best Novel, a prestigious accolade in the mystery genre.
- Noah Hawley, the author of Before the Fall, is also acclaimed for his work as the creator and writer of the critically acclaimed TV series Fargo.
- Before the Fall was named as one of the best books of the year by publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post.

**Scott Burroughs**  
An artist and former champion swimmer who lives off-the-grid and finds his life changed after accepting an invitation to fly on a private jet.

**Bill Cunningham**  
An on-air personality for ALC with a working-class persona, known for his controversial broadcasts and challenging the boundaries of journalism.

**David Bateman**  
The head of ALC News, who hires Cunningham and balances his career in broadcast news with his family life.

**Maggie Bateman**  
The wife of David Bateman, a former preschool teacher, who focuses on her children and charitable causes, while developing a platonic friendship with Scott Burroughs.

**Gus Franklin**  
An NTSB investigator with a logical approach, who focuses on the technical aspects of a plane crash investigation while being considerate of the survivors.

**Emma Lightner**  
A flight attendant for GullWing Airlines, whose background in flying and finance contrasts with perceptions based on her physical appearance.

**Charlie Busch**  
A pilot with an inferiority complex, entangled in a troubled relationship with Emma, whose actions are later revealed to have significant implications.

Noah Hawley

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Before the Fall and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Before the Fall Summary

Background

Before the Fall Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1-Part 1, Chapter 12

Before the Fall Chapter 1-Part 1, Chapter 12 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapter 13-Part 2, Chapter 24

Before the Fall Part 1, Chapter 13-Part 2, Chapter 24 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapter 25-Part 3, Chapter 35

Before the Fall Part 2, Chapter 25-Part 3, Chapter 35 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 36-44

Before the Fall Part 3, Chapters 36-44 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Before the Fall Character Analysis

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Themes

Before the Fall Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Before the Fall Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Before the Fall Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Before the Fall Essay Topics

Before the Fall

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Before the Fall?

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Book Details