Review of This Is Where We Die by Cindy R. X. He
When a book comes with a premise that hints at friendship unraveling amidst a backdrop of suspense, it’s hard not to be intrigued. This Is Where We Die—Cindy R. X. He’s latest offering—immediately caught my attention. The notion of eight friends haunted by a tragic past and confronted with a chilling present felt both familiar and thrillingly fresh, a classic setup that promised a deep dive into the complexities of human relationships and the secrets they harbor. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy; I couldn’t resist the pull of this multifaceted YA thriller.
Set in the shadows of British Columbia, the story revolves around Sadie, Charlie, Isla, Emily, Ant, Will, Tom, and Vera—friends forever changed by the disappearance of Tom and Vera during an ill-fated trip. Now, as they attempt to reclaim a sense of closure with one last gathering, the haunting past resurfaces in a brutal, unyielding way. The atmosphere is thick with tension as the characters begin to be picked off one by one. Here, He masterfully intertwines themes of grief, guilt, and the sometimes complicated nature of friendship, keeping readers on a razor’s edge of anticipation.
One notable aspect of this book is the six first-person points of view. While it’s a tricky undertaking—balancing multiple voices and giving each individual their own distinctive flair—He navigates this with a deft touch. As the narrative unfolds, the number of perspectives dwindles, allowing those who remain to shine through their desires, fears, and interactions with their fraught history. The slow reveal of each character’s deeply-rooted fears and aspirations added depth and allowed for rich character development. Among them, Isla captured my attention the most. A beautifully flawed character, she embodies chaos and ambition, and her messy determination to claim what she wants is both relatable and thought-provoking. Her backstory reveals the layers beneath her surface, making her struggles feel deeply human.
The pacing of the story is artfully managed, with suspense checking in at just the right moments. I found the addition of detective scenes—interludes between chapters after each tragic event—fascinating, revealing glimpses into the investigation and adding layers to the intrigue. These snippets provided a refreshing change of pace, ensuring the tension was palpable while allowing readers to piece together their own theories. While I think I can identify a few key breadcrumbs laid by He, the ultimate reveal still took me by surprise—a delightful twist that solidified the book’s thrilling pulse.
It’s important to note the content warnings for themes such as cannibalism, miscarriage, and alcoholism. While they might be difficult for some readers, these elements serve to underscore the darker sides of human nature, making the novel all the more compelling.
Overall, This Is Where We Die is a gripping read that will resonate with fans of YA thrillers and those who enjoyed shows like Yellowjackets. The complexity of relationships, mixed with the looming shadows of past trauma, makes for an engaging narrative that draws you in until the last page. Personally, this book left me both reflective and satisfied—reminded that sometimes, the past is never truly behind us, and that friendship can be as perilous as it is rewarding. If you’re looking for a haunting tale that explores the depths of friendship and betrayal, I highly recommend giving Cindy R. X. He’s latest work a read.
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