(Death-castle #1)
They Both Die at the End centers around the relationship between the two main characters, Mateo and Rufus. Silvera sets his novel in New York City during an alternate dystopian society where people get a call the day they’re going to die. This is called their End Day. Two complete strangers, Mateo and Rufus are both called early one morning and decide to download the Last Friend app, looking to make a last friend on their End Day. Mateo and Rufus meet up, hoping to make a lifetime of memories in one day. Although they only know each other for less than 24 hours, they fall in love, challenging each other to explore New York City together.
I enjoyed the book as it alternated the perspective back and forth between different characters. This allows the reader to better understand the different thoughts and motives behind characters’ actions. I was able to grow close to the characters throughout the book as well. And although the ending was expected, I still had very strong emotions when I finished the book. Overall, I would recommend this book to those who are interested in a young-adult romance fiction. The author focuses on LGBTQ experiences as well, so if that’s something you’re interested in, I would recommend They Both Die at the End.
-Jamie