Book Review: This Is Where We Die by Cindy R. X. He
As someone who thrives on the thrill of a good mystery, I was immediately drawn to This Is Where We Die by Cindy R. X. He. There’s something undeniably enticing about a story filled with suspense and a sense of impending doom, especially when you discover that it revolves around the haunting aftermath of a trip gone wrong in British Columbia. The premise—a group of friends reuniting, only to be hunted down for their past—had me hooked. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy; I should have known I wouldn’t be able to put it down!
This YA thriller unfolds through the voices of six distinct characters—Sadie, Charlie, Isla, Emily, Ant, Will, Tom, and Vera—though the cast gradually shrinks in a way that amplifies the tension. One of the most impressive aspects of He’s writing is how she skillfully manages to introduce each character, giving them a voice that feels authentic and compelling even as they face the terrifying specter of death. As the narrative progresses, the mystery surrounding the characters’ disappearance deepens, and while the stakes rise, the balance among the perspectives is deftly handled. The pacing never feels rushed; instead, it unfolds like a carefully constructed puzzle, revealing just enough to keep you invested while leaving breadcrumbs for you to piece together the overarching mystery.
Out of the ensemble, Isla truly took me by surprise. She’s messy, ambitious, and at times unapologetically shallow, but her determination and candor make her one of the most compelling characters I’ve encountered in a while. There’s a poignant backstory that reveals why Isla feels she can only thrive by stepping on others—a reflection of her tumultuous home life. He pulls off a delicate balancing act, deftly showcasing Isla’s flaws while allowing her vulnerability to shine through. It made me root for her, even as she occasionally made questionable choices.
The addition of dialogue between detectives examining the murder scene struck me as an innovative narrative choice. It gave the plot an interesting duality, offering insight into the investigation while highlighting the increasing urgency of the unfolding events. The detectives serve as a bridge to the reader, reminding us that although the past may seem distant, it has dire ramifications that can’t simply be ignored. I found myself guessing the identity of the murderer, thrilled that He planted enough clues to make it a tantalizing exercise rather than an exercise in frustration.
However, be warned—this story doesn’t shy away from gore or trauma, featuring mentions of cannibalism, miscarriage, and alcoholism that add layers of complexity while challenging the reader’s comfort level. For fans of gritty narratives, these elements enhance the overall depth of the story.
If you’ve enjoyed Yellowjackets or have a soft spot for YA thrillers laden with drama and multiple perspectives, This Is Where We Die is your next must-read. He’s masterful storytelling entangled me emotionally, leaving me excited for her next endeavor. The novel not only provides an adrenaline rush but also raises questions about identity and consequence, making for a reading experience that lingers long after the last page. Whether you’re looking for an edge-of-your-seat thrill or a nuanced exploration of youth in crisis, this novel delivers on all fronts. Happy reading!