Amanda is a workaholic lawyer who thinks every sniffle, cough or sneeze could be a death sentence. There is no doubt that her agenda is packed to the brim and color-coded. However, her love life is chaotic enough to balance out her professional structure. Meanwhile, Sophie is an aspiring artist who floats around the world with no regard for possessions or social bonds. Planning and organization aren't in her vocabulary, and commitments aren’t her thing. Other than being disaster-prone in relationships, these two have absolutely nothing in common. Yet they’ve been close friends for the past 10 years.

After both of their love lives collapse on the same night, Amanda and Sophie decide to swear off the traditional dating process. They resolve to live with and support each other, keeping men on the side for sex and occasional maintenance needs. Without the pressure of finding that “special someone,” they are in complete control of their love lives, and dating becomes refreshingly enjoyable and relaxing.

"Leslie Cohen demonstrates a mastery of craft that is refreshing. Both the language and the plot are engaging, and the dialogue and intimate scenes are well-written and captivating."

As Amanda and Sophie settle into this friendship-prioritizing lifestyle, one guy seems to have the potential to be something more. Now they must reevaluate what they consider to be important and where their friendship stands. How will this development affect their arrangement? At first, it was all about flexibility and a lack of commitment. When put to the test, is this alliance truly flexible, or will it inevitably end in heartbreak?

Author Leslie Cohen demonstrates a mastery of craft that is refreshing. Both the language and the plot are engaging, and the dialogue and intimate scenes are well-written and captivating. The concept in general is quite novel: Forget men. Remove the commitment in dating. Live with your best friend. While the majority of females probably have had similar thoughts, it was enthralling to read an actual story about it.

The brownstone that Amanda and Sophie inhabit has a personality of its own. Its transformation from fixer-upper to safe haven is rewarding, and they truly make the house their own. I also appreciated the female empowerment aspect of the book. Both characters are strong-willed in their own way. They have flaws, morals and talent, all of which make it so much more satisfying and easier to cheer for them. Lastly, I loved how they both complemented one another. Amanda brings order into Sophie's life, while Sophie calms Amanda's stressed-out self. They know each other's tells and quirks.

MY RIDE OR DIE is perfect for anyone who enjoys reading about strong female friendships, and I look forward to seeing what Cohen has in store for us next.