A review by momobookdiary
Everyone in the Group Chat Dies by L.M. Chilton

3.0

L.M. Chilton’s Everyone in the Group Chat Dies is a fast-paced, twisty tale that hooks you with its unique premise: a dead friend texting from beyond the grave, threatening doom on a group of former flatmates harboring dark secrets. Set in the sleepy (and slightly sinister) town of Crowhurst, the story is laced with sardonic humor, witty observations, and an ominous undercurrent of dread.

The book is likely to resonate most with younger readers who thrive on the rhythm of social media and meme culture. Chilton leans into the quirks of modern communication—group chats, digital sleuthing, and the unspoken rules of online interactions—to craft a story that feels very "of the moment."

The dual-timeline structure adds layers to the narrative, peeling back the mystery of what the group “did” while tying it to the haunting reappearance of Esme. However, while the plot has plenty of intrigue and humor, I found it hard to connect with the characters. They’re sharp and snarky, but their emotional depth often feels secondary to the banter and twists.

Maybe I’m just outside the target audience, but the characters’ decisions sometimes felt frustrating or unrelatable. The humor, while enjoyable, couldn’t entirely compensate for the lack of emotional weight or development that might have made the reveals more impactful.

That said, Everyone in the Group Chat Dies is a quick and entertaining read for fans of dark comedy, suspense, and tech-infused storytelling. It won’t stay with you long after the last page, but it’s an enjoyable enough ride while it lasts.