The Expiration Date by Leslie McElroy is a thought-provoking novel centered around an intriguing and unsettling premise: what if everyone knew the exact day they would die? McElroy masterfully explores this speculative scenario with a blend of philosophical insight and engaging storytelling that digs deep into the psychological ramifications of such knowledge on individuals and society.

The novel introduces us to a near-future world where the technology to predict the exact date of a person's death has been perfected and commercialized. The central protagonist, Eleanor Rigby—a nod to The Beatles’ lonely character—is an actuary in her mid-thirties grappling with the implications of her impending expiration date, merely a year away. McElroy expertly captures Eleanor's transformation from a rational, somewhat detached professional to a woman intensely exploring the depths of her emotions, relationships, and the world around her.

McElroy's characters are exceptionally crafted, each rich with emotional depth and distinctiveness. From Eleanor’s estranged brother, a skeptic who openly challenges the ethics of the death-predicting technology, to her best friend, a zealous advocate who sees the technology as a means to live life to its fullest, the author explores a spectrum of responses that adds richness and believability to this fictional world. Meanwhile, the narrative cleverly intertwines their stories with Eleanor’s personal journey towards acceptance and understanding of her mortality.

The thematic heart of the novel wrestles with profound questions: How would our values and lifestyles change if we knew the timing of our death? How would our relationships evolve? Eleanor’s personal transformation offers an intimate exploration of these themes. Her initially methodical approach to the remaining days contrasts starkly with her evolving perspective that life’s true value may lie in its unpredictable nature and the depth of human connection. This transformation is deftly depicted through her reconciliations and newfound openness with those around her.

Another striking feature of McElroy’s writing is her adept use of setting and atmosphere. The futuristic elements are subtly integrated, creating a world that feels eerily familiar yet distinctly otherworldly. This not-so-distant future is filled with advanced technologies and societal changes that provoke the reader to consider the implications for our own trajectory. The existential dread permeates through the narrative but is beautifully balanced with moments of sheer joy, particularly those involving Eleanor’s rediscovery of her passions and the world's simple pleasures.

The pacing of The Expiration Date is particularly noteworthy. McElroy unfolds Eleanor’s story with a meticulous balance of introspection and action, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The climax, a profoundly moving section, cleverly does not hinge on the specter of death itself but on a celebration of life—a poignant reminder of the novel’s underlying message about the importance of cherishing every moment.

Aesthetically, the book is also a triumph. McElroy’s prose is elegant and vivid, with a lyrical quality that transports readers directly into Eleanor’s world. Descriptive passages of settings, from the bustling cityscape to serene natural surroundings, are crafted with a painter’s touch, enriching the narrative without overshadowing the character-driven story.

Despite its many strengths, there are moments where the philosophical musings might feel slightly overwrought, potentially alienating readers less inclined towards introspection. Moreover, some might find the resolution a bit too neat, considering the complex moral and ethical questions the book raises. However, these are minor critiques in what is otherwise a compelling and beautifully written novel.

Overall, The Expiration Date by Leslie McElroy is an impressive work that cleverly uses its speculative premise to explore timeless questions about life, death, and what it truly means to live fully. It is both a gripping narrative and a significant meditation on the human condition—a rare find that both entertains and enlightens. This novel is highly recommended for those who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven science fiction with a strong emotional core.