Ride or Die
Gail-Agnes Musikavanhu
Soho Teen, 2023
Hardback, €25.19
ISBN 9781641294201
The best way I would describe this book would be a breath of fresh air while simultaneously being a breath holding experience.
This thrilling YA novel Ride or Die explores the character Loli Crawford, who is always unapologetically herself, something you can both admire and hate. While plotting an elaborate heist, a mysterious stranger, X, interrupts her plans and proposes an offer she cannot refuse. While hoping to fulfil her adrenaline rushed fantasies, we see Loli juggle the act of self-discovery, school and relationships. The author puts an exciting twist on regular clichés so you never truly know where you’re going to end up.
I’m a sucker for an interesting character with plenty of depth and this book had quite a few. The protagonist Loli is humorous, unpredictable and frustrating in all the right ways. Although I enjoy these attributes, I understand characters like this aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. I find it boring when a book has a set of characters who are essentially all copied and pasted, but each character in Ride or Die had their own unique traits, antics and flaws. So much so, you’d struggle trying not to find someone you relate to. While the characters aren’t particularly complex, I think that the story speaks for itself and is a light and funny read.
My most read genres would include thrillers and mysteries, so I thoroughly enjoyed those elements in this novel. It was a perfect combination of classic chick flicks like Gossip Girl and famous stories like Bonnie and Clyde. With each chapter based off a song, you’re always kept entertained while reading. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush this is the book for you.
Colene O’ Callaghan, 16
