The First to Die at the End

By: Adam Silvera

OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS

It’s the night before Death-Cast goes live, and there’s one question on everyone’s mind: Can Death-Cast actually predict when someone will die, or is it just an elaborate hoax?

Orion Pagan has waited years for someone to tell him that he’s going to die. He has a serious heart condition, and he signed up for Death-Cast so he could know what’s coming.

Valentino Prince is restarting his life in New York. He has a long and promising future ahead and he only registered for Death-Cast after his twin sister nearly died in a car accident.

Orion and Valentino cross paths in Times Square and immediately feel a deep connection. But when the first round of End Day calls goes out, their lives are changed forever—one of them receives a call, and the other doesn’t. Though neither boy is certain how the day will end, they know they want to spend it together…even if that means their goodbye will be heartbreaking.

Told with acclaimed author Adam Silvera’s signature bittersweet touch, this story celebrates the lasting impact that people have on each other and proves that life is always worth living to the fullest.

MY REVIEW

The First to Die at the End is a sweet and sorrowful romance about living your life to the fullest! A few hours before Death-Cast, an organization that tells you the day you will die, launches for the first time Orion meets Valentino. Orion Pagen is a short-story writer who has a serious heart condition that can end his life any day. He signed up for Death-Cast so he could know what’s coming. Meanwhile, Valentino is an aspiring model who is restarting his life in New York! He still has doubts about Death-Cast’s ability to predict when someone’s going to die, as everyone does, but he registered anyway after his twin sister nearly died in a car accident. As soon as they meet they have an instant connection. However, their lives are forever changed when one receives a call and the other doesn’t. Neither of them knows how the day is going to end, but they know they want to spend it doing firsts together. 

Both of the characters were delightful! They had very interesting backstories. Orion had a rough childhood but still brings joy and a bright side to the book. Valentino is originally from Arizona, he had a tough time coming out to his religious parents and decided to pursue his dreams with his twin sister. In my opinion, they fell in love too quickly, however, it had to be considering the small time frame of the book. I loved their witty banter and their sweet relationship throughout the book! The theme throughout the book of rising above difficult things and living each day with intent was expertly displayed. Both of the characters had challenges and helped each other overcome them to live their lives with no regrets. However, I felt that the multiple POVs were unnecessary. It felt like there were two different storylines. Overall, this book was heartbreaking, but also uplifting! I would rate this a 4/5 stars!

Rating: 4/5

Reading Format: Hardback Book