One phone call later Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio know they will both die within the next 24 hours.

Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End is an emotional rollercoaster that masterfully blends fiction with an exploration of life, love, and mortality. Set in a world where a service called “Death-Cast” alerts individuals of their impending death within 24 hours, the novel follows Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio, two teenagers who meet through an app, “Last Friend” designed to connect people on their last day.  

From the outset, the title bluntly foreshadows the ending, yet this knowledge does little to prepare readers for the profound journey that unfolds. Silvera’s writing is heartfelt and raw, capturing the contrasting personalities of Mateo and Rufus with incredible nuance. 

Mateo is a shy and socially anxious boy who has spent most of his life trapped inside, while Rufus is a Cuban-origin street-smart foster child with a troubled past who is bold and impulsive. Their dynamic brings warmth and authenticity to their growing bond.  

The novel shines in its exploration of existential questions. Through the lens of Mateo and Rufus’s final day, Silvera challenges readers to consider how they might live if time were suddenly finite. Themes of connection, regret, and the urgency to embrace life’s fleeting moments resonate deeply, making the story relatable for everyone.

While the premise is unique and thought-provoking, it is the emotional core of the novel that lingers. The relationship between Mateo and Rufus is beautifully developed, progressing from awkward strangers to a profound, life-changing connection. Their romance feels organic, and its bittersweet nature only amplifies the story’s impact.

However, some readers might find the pacing uneven, particularly as the narrative juggles multiple perspectives alongside the protagonists’. While these additional viewpoints enrich the world-building, they occasionally disrupt the central narrative’s momentum.  

They Both Die at the End is a tearjerker that leaves readers reflecting on their own lives. It is a story about seizing the moment, finding love in unexpected places, and the courage it takes to live when faced with the inevitability of death. The novel speaks to the idea that the greatest tragedy is not to die, but to die with regrets over a life that was not lived to the fullest.

Silvera’s ability to balance heartbreak and hope ensures this book is an unforgettable experience.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars