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Jay Qasim #3
Ride or Die (Jay Qasim)
‘A brilliant thriller. You’d be mad not to buy this’
BEN AARONOVITCH ––––––––––––––––––––––––– JAY QASIM is finally out of the game and trying to lay low. But then he gets news that rocks his world and drags up everything that he thought he’d left behind. Jay must break his vow never to work with MI5 again and turn to the person who sold him out. But this time he’s determined to do it on his terms. IMRAN SIDDIQUI once tried to kill Jay but now they have a common adversary. The one thing worse than death is watching the people closest to you die. And after the happiest day of Imran’s life becomes the most tragic, he will stop at nothing to take revenge on the people that have taken away his family. But when everyone has their own agenda, who can you really trust?
Your most deadly enemy is about to become your closest ally. Ride or Die is an edge-of-your-seat thriller featuring MI5 most reluctant spy Jay Qasim, perfect for fans of Mick Herron’s Jackson Lamb series and A.A. Dhand’s D.I. Harry Virdee thrillers. 1. East of Hounslow
2. Homegrown Hero
3. Ride or Die
BEN AARONOVITCH ––––––––––––––––––––––––– JAY QASIM is finally out of the game and trying to lay low. But then he gets news that rocks his world and drags up everything that he thought he’d left behind. Jay must break his vow never to work with MI5 again and turn to the person who sold him out. But this time he’s determined to do it on his terms. IMRAN SIDDIQUI once tried to kill Jay but now they have a common adversary. The one thing worse than death is watching the people closest to you die. And after the happiest day of Imran’s life becomes the most tragic, he will stop at nothing to take revenge on the people that have taken away his family. But when everyone has their own agenda, who can you really trust?
Your most deadly enemy is about to become your closest ally. Ride or Die is an edge-of-your-seat thriller featuring MI5 most reluctant spy Jay Qasim, perfect for fans of Mick Herron’s Jackson Lamb series and A.A. Dhand’s D.I. Harry Virdee thrillers. 1. East of Hounslow
2. Homegrown Hero
3. Ride or Die
400 pages, Paperback
First published July 9, 2020
26 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 25, 2022
Everyone has an agenda
A very good book. I think this is the best book of the series so far. With the things left undone in this book there has to be another book.
The first book in the series way about Jay, Imy was introduced in the second book with was more his story. I had hoped that Imy had got there just in time to avoid the tragedy at the did of the last book.
In this book Jay and Imy share the heroic/main character role. Everyone in this book has their own agenda, that is what makes this book so interesting. This book is also much more action packed than the other books in the series.
I do like that what Jay lacks in formal training he makes up for with his streetwise observation skills. I also like the difference in the characters Imy being the more cerebral almost an iceman with his feeling turned off and Jay always following his feelings no matter where or how much trouble they get him into.
Something that was nailed in this book is the motivations of all the characters. Not just the alienation they feel from others but from their own people as well.
With the way each of book in the series better thsn thr last I have even higher expectation for ghe next book. I can't wait for the next book. It cannot end here.
A very good book. I think this is the best book of the series so far. With the things left undone in this book there has to be another book.
The first book in the series way about Jay, Imy was introduced in the second book with was more his story. I had hoped that Imy had got there just in time to avoid the tragedy at the did of the last book.
In this book Jay and Imy share the heroic/main character role. Everyone in this book has their own agenda, that is what makes this book so interesting. This book is also much more action packed than the other books in the series.
I do like that what Jay lacks in formal training he makes up for with his streetwise observation skills. I also like the difference in the characters Imy being the more cerebral almost an iceman with his feeling turned off and Jay always following his feelings no matter where or how much trouble they get him into.
Something that was nailed in this book is the motivations of all the characters. Not just the alienation they feel from others but from their own people as well.
With the way each of book in the series better thsn thr last I have even higher expectation for ghe next book. I can't wait for the next book. It cannot end here.
April 19, 2020
Another wildly entertaining whilst also being extraordinarily insightful novel here from Khurrum Rahman featuring once again one of my favourite main characters currently in fiction.
Jay is a delight to read about, when he's being funny, when he's being serious, all the time. Backed up by an eclectic and intriguing group dynamic in more ways than one, he sits at the centre of a realistic world that totally blows away preconceptions of many kinds.
But hey, we read for entertainment a whole lot of the time and this series offers up action, a rather ironic occasional dose of romance, plots that are pacy and often edge of the seat, a brilliantly clever underlying humour and almost total unpredictability. What's not to love?
This is an ongoing storyline in a lot of ways so for practical and enjoyment purposes I'd recommend reading in order, starting with the excellent East of Hounslow, but mostly I just simply recommend them.
This author is pretty much a shoe in for my top ten of 2020 later this year which would make it third book in a row that has.
If you want both excellent writing and excellent storytelling look no further.
Jay is a delight to read about, when he's being funny, when he's being serious, all the time. Backed up by an eclectic and intriguing group dynamic in more ways than one, he sits at the centre of a realistic world that totally blows away preconceptions of many kinds.
But hey, we read for entertainment a whole lot of the time and this series offers up action, a rather ironic occasional dose of romance, plots that are pacy and often edge of the seat, a brilliantly clever underlying humour and almost total unpredictability. What's not to love?
This is an ongoing storyline in a lot of ways so for practical and enjoyment purposes I'd recommend reading in order, starting with the excellent East of Hounslow, but mostly I just simply recommend them.
This author is pretty much a shoe in for my top ten of 2020 later this year which would make it third book in a row that has.
If you want both excellent writing and excellent storytelling look no further.
April 23, 2020
Why does Khurrum Rahman enjoy ripping my heart out and stamping on it so much? But that aside, is he still my new favourite author? Abso-fucking-lutely. The Jay Qasim series has so far given me three of the best books I have ever read. If it wasn’t for the lockdown, I’d be standing outside Waterstones right about now with a megaphone, screaming at everyone to buy these books. Okay, maybe my social anxiety would stop me from doing that, but that’s what my blog, Goodreads and Amazon is for. For me to hopefully put across just how incredible these books have been. I was happy with my reviews for East of Hounslow and Homegrown Hero, but I don’t think I’ve got the words to do Ride or Die justice.
I don’t even know where to start. Maybe with the pure and real emotion that is packed into these stories. And how that emotion is brought out of me as a reader. The characterisation is just so brilliantly done. Khurrum Rahman has a real talent to bring to the fore the beliefs of some truly evil people. Some of the people we read about are just so beyond evil that it is scary to read about. But what’s scarier is these aren’t just villains within a fictional story. They exist in our real world, and the realism of these characters shines through and makes for a truly uncomfortable read in places. But on the flip side of that, we have the good guys. The ones who put their lives on the line to protect ours. But sometimes that backfires, resulting in the deaths of those closest to them. I really can’t say too much more than that, especially for those yet to read the previous two books but the characterisation here is some of the best I have ever read about.
In terms of the plot here in Ride or Die, it is nothing short of incredible. The ending to Homegrown Hero had my jaw dropping. Normally a cliche, this time it actually dropped when the finale of that book just knocked me for six. And so I just could not wait to get my hands on Ride or Die, reading it in just two action-packed sittings. We see our protagonist Jay Qasim having to team up with Imran Siddiqui, the man who blames him (and others) for the devastation that happened in Homegrown Hero. Imy’s character has been one of my favourites so far this series. He is a character who I feel I have gone through every emotion with as I’ve read about him. As the story opened here, it felt almost perverse to be given such an insight into his mind and his through processes. Those thoughts, emotions and feelings being palpable as I read. To see him having to work with Jay added a whole new dynamic not just to the story, but also to their fractured relationship as a whole. Could Jay trust Imy? Could Imy trust Jay? Khurrum does such a good job with Imy’s character, especially in terms of his relationship with Jay. The hatred, but the confusion. The thirst for revenge, but the somehow still trying to protect Jay where he can. As duos go, these are two of the best that I’ve read about. Never once do these characters feel fictional, it is like reading about real people.
Jay is just fantastic. I could just read about him for a thousand pages rather than just the 400 that flew by here. This series deals with some massive stories, however throughout there’s that underlying humour infused into the story the whole way through. Before we get into the meat of the story, the book opens with Jay in Qatar, soon having to make a rapid return to the UK. I’ve said in the past how unlucky he is, to find himself in these situations. We now know that it’s not just bad luck that brought him to the radar of some nasty people but still, I was asking myself just how much can one man have thrown at him. One of the elements of the story I enjoyed most was the introduction of a female love interest for Jay with the character of Sophia. Well, possible love interest. I have to say that Khurrum does write the comedy elements here just brilliantly. Jay’s outlook on life, the way he acts around Sophia, just everything about how he approaches the normalities of his abnormal life are just so brilliantly done that they just flow perfectly with the story, the comedy softening in places but never detracting from the seriousness of the entire narrative.
The plot moves at breakneck speed and I couldn’t read quick enough to see how things were going to conclude. As each chapter ended I instantly needed more, and as I started to near the end I was torn between wanting to finish the story and never wanting it to end. The last 40 or so pages I read on the edge of my seat. Well, the edge of my bed to be precise. I sat up, completely locked out the world around me and finished these closing pages almost forgetting to blink and breathe. When written words on a page can have that effect, you know you’ve discovered one incredible author. And that author is Khurrum Rahman. I finished the final chapter and immediately pressed to get to the next page, only to see an Acknowledgment page. I had finished the book. I almost screamed out 'No!', because I instantly wanted more. The ending to Ride or Die was just phenomenal. The whole book was outstanding. I finished Homegrown Hero in awe, and I finished Ride or Die even more in awe. I read the closing pages and had actual goosebumps. I might have even, almost, shed a tear. I can say nothing more other than this is a must-read series. It also has some of my favourite covers ever with the new paperback versions, and so I am hoping to pick them up soon. Please, please if you have this series on your TBR, do not leave it languishing, but move it straight to the top of that TBR and read them now. Thank me later. You won’t regret it.
I don’t even know where to start. Maybe with the pure and real emotion that is packed into these stories. And how that emotion is brought out of me as a reader. The characterisation is just so brilliantly done. Khurrum Rahman has a real talent to bring to the fore the beliefs of some truly evil people. Some of the people we read about are just so beyond evil that it is scary to read about. But what’s scarier is these aren’t just villains within a fictional story. They exist in our real world, and the realism of these characters shines through and makes for a truly uncomfortable read in places. But on the flip side of that, we have the good guys. The ones who put their lives on the line to protect ours. But sometimes that backfires, resulting in the deaths of those closest to them. I really can’t say too much more than that, especially for those yet to read the previous two books but the characterisation here is some of the best I have ever read about.
In terms of the plot here in Ride or Die, it is nothing short of incredible. The ending to Homegrown Hero had my jaw dropping. Normally a cliche, this time it actually dropped when the finale of that book just knocked me for six. And so I just could not wait to get my hands on Ride or Die, reading it in just two action-packed sittings. We see our protagonist Jay Qasim having to team up with Imran Siddiqui, the man who blames him (and others) for the devastation that happened in Homegrown Hero. Imy’s character has been one of my favourites so far this series. He is a character who I feel I have gone through every emotion with as I’ve read about him. As the story opened here, it felt almost perverse to be given such an insight into his mind and his through processes. Those thoughts, emotions and feelings being palpable as I read. To see him having to work with Jay added a whole new dynamic not just to the story, but also to their fractured relationship as a whole. Could Jay trust Imy? Could Imy trust Jay? Khurrum does such a good job with Imy’s character, especially in terms of his relationship with Jay. The hatred, but the confusion. The thirst for revenge, but the somehow still trying to protect Jay where he can. As duos go, these are two of the best that I’ve read about. Never once do these characters feel fictional, it is like reading about real people.
Jay is just fantastic. I could just read about him for a thousand pages rather than just the 400 that flew by here. This series deals with some massive stories, however throughout there’s that underlying humour infused into the story the whole way through. Before we get into the meat of the story, the book opens with Jay in Qatar, soon having to make a rapid return to the UK. I’ve said in the past how unlucky he is, to find himself in these situations. We now know that it’s not just bad luck that brought him to the radar of some nasty people but still, I was asking myself just how much can one man have thrown at him. One of the elements of the story I enjoyed most was the introduction of a female love interest for Jay with the character of Sophia. Well, possible love interest. I have to say that Khurrum does write the comedy elements here just brilliantly. Jay’s outlook on life, the way he acts around Sophia, just everything about how he approaches the normalities of his abnormal life are just so brilliantly done that they just flow perfectly with the story, the comedy softening in places but never detracting from the seriousness of the entire narrative.
The plot moves at breakneck speed and I couldn’t read quick enough to see how things were going to conclude. As each chapter ended I instantly needed more, and as I started to near the end I was torn between wanting to finish the story and never wanting it to end. The last 40 or so pages I read on the edge of my seat. Well, the edge of my bed to be precise. I sat up, completely locked out the world around me and finished these closing pages almost forgetting to blink and breathe. When written words on a page can have that effect, you know you’ve discovered one incredible author. And that author is Khurrum Rahman. I finished the final chapter and immediately pressed to get to the next page, only to see an Acknowledgment page. I had finished the book. I almost screamed out 'No!', because I instantly wanted more. The ending to Ride or Die was just phenomenal. The whole book was outstanding. I finished Homegrown Hero in awe, and I finished Ride or Die even more in awe. I read the closing pages and had actual goosebumps. I might have even, almost, shed a tear. I can say nothing more other than this is a must-read series. It also has some of my favourite covers ever with the new paperback versions, and so I am hoping to pick them up soon. Please, please if you have this series on your TBR, do not leave it languishing, but move it straight to the top of that TBR and read them now. Thank me later. You won’t regret it.
June 3, 2020
'Meet Jay...'
'Well, yeah, you already f***ing met Jay', quipped Jay impatiently throwing his phone on the seat of his black BMW
It's extremely important to understand a number of things about Jay. Jay has a massive gob and equally big ego, but more about it in a minute. He's got a massive disdain for authority and hugely eventful 18 months behind him. He also has a proverbial heart of gold and a moral compass that hates him. And the feeling is mutual, let me hasten to add.
Jay Qasim saga is one of these series that immerses you in the world of the protagonist. In their loves, hates, heartaches and delusions. The series allows you to witness Jay's journey through self-discovery. From a small-time pot dealer from Hounslow to a weathered man of resolve.
In the third explosive instalment of Jay Qasim series masterfully crafted by Khurrum Rahman, we follow Jay on a mission in search for one of the most dangerous men in the world. Who incidentally is his father.
It's pretty difficult to review 'Ride or Die' without alluding to previous books in the series. In fact, two previous instalments are crucial to fully understand and appreciate the dynamics of our duo of protagonists. Oh, yes... The story revolves around Jay and Imran Siddiqui, also known as Imy, who has been introduced in book #2 'Homegrown Hero'.
Imy and Jay are not friends. Far from it. Without giving too much away, Jay is the very reason Imy has lost everything that ever mattered to him. Through no fault of there own, the two men were put at the loggerheads and pitted against each other, only to be united in the 3rd book working towards the same goal. But here's the complication... Same goal - different objectives...
The 3rd instalment of Khurrum Rahman's 'Meet Jay' series is the most emotionally mature. Jay is more mature. His mouth is still potty. His chatter is still inane and silly, but boy didn't he grow... Jay is finally coming to terms with who he is and where he comes from. His intrinsic need to do the right thing rules over his head. Jay's attitude towards life has changed dramatically, even though he still flippantly pretends he doesn't give a shit. But he does. He yearns closure as much as he desires the new beginning. He remains conflicted on many levels, but the conflict is more pronounced, better defined. He knows exactly what he feels. But he also knows what he is not supposed to feel, which pushes him further and further into the abyss of conflicting emotions.
Imran is a shell of man he used to be. We meet a man driven by revenge. A man corroded by rage. A man, we all carry around inside us but we're fortunate enough he hadn't had awakened. Imran, a man of strong conviction and even stronger resolve, is a polar opposite of Jay. Quiet. Disciplined. Deadly... By creating Imy, Khurrum created a perfectly crafted anti-hero in Hemingway tradition. Gritty and minimalist. Fleeing from the environment in which he can no longer function and finding solace in a desperate place past the point of no return. This juxtaposition, this almost hedonistic need for closure, whatever the price may be, makes Imran truly tragic, as he is ready to lose himself in the process.
What About the Story?
The narrative introduced an array of new characters and brings back some of the old favourites. The story is written mainly from the perspectives of Jay and Imy, but we get a glimpse of new faces. Faces that we would like to find out a bit more about. The story almost acts as a springboard for more books that may not be a part of the series, but by teasing some really interesting 'what ifs' and opening the doors for new characters, it can almost allow for creating a new literary universe. Which Khurrum Rahman has already proved he is more than capable of doing.
The story allows us to revisit places featuring in 'East of Hounslow' and 'Homegrown Hero'. Because of this alone, I would recommend reading previous books as they beautifully set the scene for 'Ride or Die'. In fact, reading the series in order is like devouring your favourite series on Netflix. You can't get enough of it and want to restart it the moment you put it down. 'Ride or Die' very heavily alludes to its predecessors, but it doesn't replace them. The pure emotional journey can only be completed by reading the series from the beginning.
Can it work as a standalone story? Yes. Yes, it can. Unfortunately, it won't have the same effect. It will allow you to understand the motivations of our dynamic duo, but it's not going to root for them the same way it does when read as part of the series. The character development of Jay and Imy has been largely completed through 'East of Hounslow' and 'Homegrown Hero'. 'Ride or Die' is taking it to the next level. A level that cannot be fully appreciated without knowing the full story.
With each novel, Khurrum Rahman is growing as a storyteller. His style becomes more pronounced. He constructs and executes a new aesthetic creed, on which he then expands. The most crucial elements of his "spy thrillers" are reactionary and seriously challenge the status quo of the genre. At times 'Ride or Die' is more of a psychological drama featuring two broken souls seeking love, closure and retribution.
What's next for Jay? Who knows! The tear-inducing, jawdropping ending leaves us yearning for more. Nearly screaming at the pages "Give us more!" This is a true testament to Khurrum's writing. He makes us want more...
Massive thank you to Netgalley, HQ and Khurrum Rahman for an advance copy of 'Ride or Die.' It truly was an unforgettable ride.
'Well, yeah, you already f***ing met Jay', quipped Jay impatiently throwing his phone on the seat of his black BMW
It's extremely important to understand a number of things about Jay. Jay has a massive gob and equally big ego, but more about it in a minute. He's got a massive disdain for authority and hugely eventful 18 months behind him. He also has a proverbial heart of gold and a moral compass that hates him. And the feeling is mutual, let me hasten to add.
Jay Qasim saga is one of these series that immerses you in the world of the protagonist. In their loves, hates, heartaches and delusions. The series allows you to witness Jay's journey through self-discovery. From a small-time pot dealer from Hounslow to a weathered man of resolve.
In the third explosive instalment of Jay Qasim series masterfully crafted by Khurrum Rahman, we follow Jay on a mission in search for one of the most dangerous men in the world. Who incidentally is his father.
It's pretty difficult to review 'Ride or Die' without alluding to previous books in the series. In fact, two previous instalments are crucial to fully understand and appreciate the dynamics of our duo of protagonists. Oh, yes... The story revolves around Jay and Imran Siddiqui, also known as Imy, who has been introduced in book #2 'Homegrown Hero'.
Imy and Jay are not friends. Far from it. Without giving too much away, Jay is the very reason Imy has lost everything that ever mattered to him. Through no fault of there own, the two men were put at the loggerheads and pitted against each other, only to be united in the 3rd book working towards the same goal. But here's the complication... Same goal - different objectives...
The 3rd instalment of Khurrum Rahman's 'Meet Jay' series is the most emotionally mature. Jay is more mature. His mouth is still potty. His chatter is still inane and silly, but boy didn't he grow... Jay is finally coming to terms with who he is and where he comes from. His intrinsic need to do the right thing rules over his head. Jay's attitude towards life has changed dramatically, even though he still flippantly pretends he doesn't give a shit. But he does. He yearns closure as much as he desires the new beginning. He remains conflicted on many levels, but the conflict is more pronounced, better defined. He knows exactly what he feels. But he also knows what he is not supposed to feel, which pushes him further and further into the abyss of conflicting emotions.
Imran is a shell of man he used to be. We meet a man driven by revenge. A man corroded by rage. A man, we all carry around inside us but we're fortunate enough he hadn't had awakened. Imran, a man of strong conviction and even stronger resolve, is a polar opposite of Jay. Quiet. Disciplined. Deadly... By creating Imy, Khurrum created a perfectly crafted anti-hero in Hemingway tradition. Gritty and minimalist. Fleeing from the environment in which he can no longer function and finding solace in a desperate place past the point of no return. This juxtaposition, this almost hedonistic need for closure, whatever the price may be, makes Imran truly tragic, as he is ready to lose himself in the process.
What About the Story?
The narrative introduced an array of new characters and brings back some of the old favourites. The story is written mainly from the perspectives of Jay and Imy, but we get a glimpse of new faces. Faces that we would like to find out a bit more about. The story almost acts as a springboard for more books that may not be a part of the series, but by teasing some really interesting 'what ifs' and opening the doors for new characters, it can almost allow for creating a new literary universe. Which Khurrum Rahman has already proved he is more than capable of doing.
The story allows us to revisit places featuring in 'East of Hounslow' and 'Homegrown Hero'. Because of this alone, I would recommend reading previous books as they beautifully set the scene for 'Ride or Die'. In fact, reading the series in order is like devouring your favourite series on Netflix. You can't get enough of it and want to restart it the moment you put it down. 'Ride or Die' very heavily alludes to its predecessors, but it doesn't replace them. The pure emotional journey can only be completed by reading the series from the beginning.
Can it work as a standalone story? Yes. Yes, it can. Unfortunately, it won't have the same effect. It will allow you to understand the motivations of our dynamic duo, but it's not going to root for them the same way it does when read as part of the series. The character development of Jay and Imy has been largely completed through 'East of Hounslow' and 'Homegrown Hero'. 'Ride or Die' is taking it to the next level. A level that cannot be fully appreciated without knowing the full story.
With each novel, Khurrum Rahman is growing as a storyteller. His style becomes more pronounced. He constructs and executes a new aesthetic creed, on which he then expands. The most crucial elements of his "spy thrillers" are reactionary and seriously challenge the status quo of the genre. At times 'Ride or Die' is more of a psychological drama featuring two broken souls seeking love, closure and retribution.
What's next for Jay? Who knows! The tear-inducing, jawdropping ending leaves us yearning for more. Nearly screaming at the pages "Give us more!" This is a true testament to Khurrum's writing. He makes us want more...
Massive thank you to Netgalley, HQ and Khurrum Rahman for an advance copy of 'Ride or Die.' It truly was an unforgettable ride.
March 9, 2022
Ride or Die was hard to follow, confusing at times, and completely awesome. Written by Khurrum Rahman, Ride or Die is the third book in his series featuring Jay Qasim co-starring his mortal enemy, Imy. I have a tendency to jump into a new series without reading the previous books. Usually, not a big deal because you get this gist of what has transpired in previous books but the details are lost. Ride or Die was not one of those books. Rahman hits all the major points of his previous books but it is very apparent the small details matter. I loved Ride or Die as a standalone but I'm certain I would have loved it more had I read the previous books.
The story in Ride or Die is a new-ish twist on terrorism/terrorists but the characters are what makes it. I'm not 100% sure of the backstory of Jay and Imy other than they are both sons of terrorist leaders, both were small-time drug dealers, both have been conscribed into MI-5, and Imy was supposed to assassinate Jay but didn't. Told from the POV of Jay and Imy, you get a sense of who they are and what they might be like given different circumstances. Jay is lighthearted, funny and kind of a bumbling idiot but hard not to like. Imy is brooding, angry, serious, and dealing with an unimaginable loss. You could not have two more different perspectives and Rhaman uses their differences masterfully.
The old adage, 'the enemy of my enemy is a friend' rings true in Ride or Die as Jay and Imy team up to face a deadly, common adversary. I mean this in the best way; It's been a long time since I have been pissed off by how a book ended and I was ticked. I can't wait to see what Rhaman has in store but until then I have time to read the first two books in the series.
My sincere thanks to Khurrum Rahman, Harper 360, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of Ride or Die!
The story in Ride or Die is a new-ish twist on terrorism/terrorists but the characters are what makes it. I'm not 100% sure of the backstory of Jay and Imy other than they are both sons of terrorist leaders, both were small-time drug dealers, both have been conscribed into MI-5, and Imy was supposed to assassinate Jay but didn't. Told from the POV of Jay and Imy, you get a sense of who they are and what they might be like given different circumstances. Jay is lighthearted, funny and kind of a bumbling idiot but hard not to like. Imy is brooding, angry, serious, and dealing with an unimaginable loss. You could not have two more different perspectives and Rhaman uses their differences masterfully.
The old adage, 'the enemy of my enemy is a friend' rings true in Ride or Die as Jay and Imy team up to face a deadly, common adversary. I mean this in the best way; It's been a long time since I have been pissed off by how a book ended and I was ticked. I can't wait to see what Rhaman has in store but until then I have time to read the first two books in the series.
My sincere thanks to Khurrum Rahman, Harper 360, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of Ride or Die!
June 11, 2020
The first two books in this series were excellent and Khurrum Rahman maintains that standard in Ride Or Die. It is another exciting, very well-written thriller with real moral weight and a continuing insight into the dilemmas and difficulties of a British Muslim confronted with jihadi terrorism. (It’s worth saying that you really need to read the first two to understand fully what is going on here, but that won’t be any hardship whatsoever.)
Following the traumatic events of the previous two books, Jay wants out from MI5 and all that...er...stuff (not exactly the word he would use). However, he is dragged back in by developments and the need to confront his father. An extremely involving and exciting story develops, taking him to places and people he’d much rather not go to in this country, Pakistan and Afghanistan. There are major and unexpected developments both politically and personally, but I won’t reveal any spoilers.
The book is narrated partly by Jay and partly by Imy whom readers will remember from Home Grown Hero. The two voices are excellently done, with Jay’s brash, expletive-strewn, egotistical but human persona contrasting with Imy’s grief-stricken, passionate, restrained voice. The humour of East Of Hounslow has largely gone as Jay’s small-time-drug-dealer past recedes and his life is dominated by the most serious of events and issues, but the serious analysis delivered in his still robust Honslow style is still there and still extremely shrewd and readable.
This remains a really classy and very enjoyable series, of which there is more to come. I’m already looking forward to the next instalment and I can recommend this very warmly indeed.
(My thanks to HQ for an ARC via NetGalley.)
Following the traumatic events of the previous two books, Jay wants out from MI5 and all that...er...stuff (not exactly the word he would use). However, he is dragged back in by developments and the need to confront his father. An extremely involving and exciting story develops, taking him to places and people he’d much rather not go to in this country, Pakistan and Afghanistan. There are major and unexpected developments both politically and personally, but I won’t reveal any spoilers.
The book is narrated partly by Jay and partly by Imy whom readers will remember from Home Grown Hero. The two voices are excellently done, with Jay’s brash, expletive-strewn, egotistical but human persona contrasting with Imy’s grief-stricken, passionate, restrained voice. The humour of East Of Hounslow has largely gone as Jay’s small-time-drug-dealer past recedes and his life is dominated by the most serious of events and issues, but the serious analysis delivered in his still robust Honslow style is still there and still extremely shrewd and readable.
This remains a really classy and very enjoyable series, of which there is more to come. I’m already looking forward to the next instalment and I can recommend this very warmly indeed.
(My thanks to HQ for an ARC via NetGalley.)
March 9, 2021
This is the 3rd (and maybe final) book in the wonderful Jay Qasim series written by Khurrum Rahman and you could possibly read this without having read the first two books, but believe me when I say you really ought to read them in order to understand the characters and their motives behind their actions.
Ride or Die follows on immediately after Homegrown Hero and once again the main characters Immie and Jay find themselves thrown together in an unlikely partnership to bring down and destroy The Teacher aka Jay’s dad.
If you’ve read the first two books then you will be delighted to know that Jay hasn’t changed, he’s still very funny, slightly delusional, occasionally mouthy and an absolute pleasure to read about. With the added bonus of a potential love interest, Jay’s innocence about women and romance together with his conflicting emotions about his father give him extra depth in this story.
Immie, the sleeping assassin, is back and this time he is in emotional pain. The blurb above gives the reader a little clue as to what happens after Homegrown Hero and before Ride or Die starts and I have to be honest, I didn’t really want to read this book as I put two and two together and figured he was going to suffer a personal tragedy which would be almost impossible to deal with. I actually messaged Khurrum directly and asked him to quickly rewrite this book so everyone lives happily ever after, but unfortunately he declined my request.
This book brings the series to an exhausting and emotional conclusion, with topical and thought-provoking themes, humour and wonderful observational comedy, characters you can’t help loving and dialogue and situations you will laugh out loud at. Jay Qasim is a hero and I think he deserves a rest now, having had a pretty busy time saving the world, foiling terrorist plots and still managing to make us giggle.
Ride or Die follows on immediately after Homegrown Hero and once again the main characters Immie and Jay find themselves thrown together in an unlikely partnership to bring down and destroy The Teacher aka Jay’s dad.
If you’ve read the first two books then you will be delighted to know that Jay hasn’t changed, he’s still very funny, slightly delusional, occasionally mouthy and an absolute pleasure to read about. With the added bonus of a potential love interest, Jay’s innocence about women and romance together with his conflicting emotions about his father give him extra depth in this story.
Immie, the sleeping assassin, is back and this time he is in emotional pain. The blurb above gives the reader a little clue as to what happens after Homegrown Hero and before Ride or Die starts and I have to be honest, I didn’t really want to read this book as I put two and two together and figured he was going to suffer a personal tragedy which would be almost impossible to deal with. I actually messaged Khurrum directly and asked him to quickly rewrite this book so everyone lives happily ever after, but unfortunately he declined my request.
This book brings the series to an exhausting and emotional conclusion, with topical and thought-provoking themes, humour and wonderful observational comedy, characters you can’t help loving and dialogue and situations you will laugh out loud at. Jay Qasim is a hero and I think he deserves a rest now, having had a pretty busy time saving the world, foiling terrorist plots and still managing to make us giggle.
July 1, 2024
Probably nearer 2.5* for this one.
The 3rd in the series and in my view the weakest one.
The 3rd in the series and in my view the weakest one.
February 14, 2023
Awesome series, but didn’t like very end
April 25, 2020
Two sworn enemies. One deadly mission
‘A brilliant thriller. You’d be mad not to buy this’
BEN AARONOVITCH
–––––––––––––––––––––––––
JAY QASIM is finally out of the game and trying to lay low. But then he gets news that rocks his world and drags up everything that he thought he’d left behind. Jay must break his vow never to work with MI5 again and turn to the person who sold him out. But this time he’s determined to do it on his terms.
IMRAN SIDDIQUI once tried to kill Jay but now they have a common adversary. The one thing worse than death is watching the people closest to you die. And after the happiest day of Imran’s life becomes the most tragic, he will stop at nothing to take revenge on the people that have taken away his family.
But when everyone has their own agenda, who can you really trust?
Your most deadly enemy is about to become your closest ally.
My thoughts about this brilliant explosive conclusion 3 part to the fast moving thriller to the brilliant trilogy Jay Qasim series Ride Or Die was beyond excellent talented author Khurrum Rahman has delivered yet another power packed spy action thriller that packs a punch with action and suspense brilliant characters fast moving locations team up of Jay Qasim and Imran Siddiqui was mindblowing stopping the villains loved each an every character some new ones and some old characters returning all an all an this is one of the best trilogy endings that will be known as the best series ever looking forward to buying the final part in the series I would like to say thank you to Khurrum Rahman Hq Stories and Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to read and review this fast moving explosive spy thriller that is an epic conclusion to the Jay Qasim series trilogy well done 💥💥💥💥💥⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A brilliant thriller. You’d be mad not to buy this’
BEN AARONOVITCH
–––––––––––––––––––––––––
JAY QASIM is finally out of the game and trying to lay low. But then he gets news that rocks his world and drags up everything that he thought he’d left behind. Jay must break his vow never to work with MI5 again and turn to the person who sold him out. But this time he’s determined to do it on his terms.
IMRAN SIDDIQUI once tried to kill Jay but now they have a common adversary. The one thing worse than death is watching the people closest to you die. And after the happiest day of Imran’s life becomes the most tragic, he will stop at nothing to take revenge on the people that have taken away his family.
But when everyone has their own agenda, who can you really trust?
Your most deadly enemy is about to become your closest ally.
My thoughts about this brilliant explosive conclusion 3 part to the fast moving thriller to the brilliant trilogy Jay Qasim series Ride Or Die was beyond excellent talented author Khurrum Rahman has delivered yet another power packed spy action thriller that packs a punch with action and suspense brilliant characters fast moving locations team up of Jay Qasim and Imran Siddiqui was mindblowing stopping the villains loved each an every character some new ones and some old characters returning all an all an this is one of the best trilogy endings that will be known as the best series ever looking forward to buying the final part in the series I would like to say thank you to Khurrum Rahman Hq Stories and Netgalley for giving me an opportunity to read and review this fast moving explosive spy thriller that is an epic conclusion to the Jay Qasim series trilogy well done 💥💥💥💥💥⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 30, 2021
There are a lot of one trick ponies in the stables of action thrillers, so while a great Book One is very welcome, pleasingly it’s not that rare: new authors abound. But the proverbially difficult second album kills off many promising bands, and the tricky second novel despatches quite a few promising writers to an early wilderness. So, if the author can pull it off, a great second book builds confidence in the returning reader, and offers the hope of a longer series. So here’s a simple question about Khurrum Rahman’s Book Three: can he keep this thing going?
If you’ve read “East Of Hounslow”, Rahman’s breakout novel, then you’ve already met Jay Qasim, West London’s recidivist slacker, small-scale drug dealer, reluctant MI5 agent and accidental jihadi. I read it with a grin on my face, loving this original character and voice, and wondering how the hell Jay was going to get out of a chain of increasingly desperate situations. No spoilers here, but the book ends with one of the best “what the hell – I didn’t see that coming” scenes I’ve read in years.
The sequel, “Home Grown Hero”, took Jay into yet deeper hot water, while Rahman proved his authorial chops by telling it with two simultaneous first person narratives. That’s a hard trick to carry off without confusing the reader, but Rahman has the confidence and skill to ace it. More importantly, it felt like the best way to tell that particular story. “Home Grown Hero” introduces a new second lead, Imran Siddiqui, a man as engaging as Jay but cut from very different cloth. To say too much here risks spoilers, but once more we were in West London, in a world of jihadist plotting, MI5 counter-terrorism and the bathos of petty drug deals. In counterpoint to the London events, scenes on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border showed us some of the characters’ motives and inspiration, and built up a real sense of dread. And Jay Qasim was floundering about in the middle of it all. Once again, we are served with a truly shocking jaw-dropper ending.
I opened “Ride Or Die”, Book Three in the series, with a pleasing sense of anticipation. How would Rahman build on the previous books? If you’ve read the first two, you won’t be disappointed. At the end of “Home Grown Hero”, Jay was in a bad state, psychologically. In “Ride Or Die”, we start again in London, and then we are taken to somewhere between Islamabad and Kabul, in an area which has been described as the world’s most dangerous border. Bouncing from dodgy Hounslow fried-chicken shops to well-heeled West End designer cafes, from Qatar luxury hotels to a terrorist training camp in Pakistan, Jay is pinballed between jihadi gunmen, deceitful MI5 agents, devious plotters, feckless buddies and ruthless killers. And for some inexplicable reason, he finds that he is worshipped as a famous revolutionary hero in a remote border town he’s never been to before.
What’s a Hounslow boy doing out there? What the hell does he think he’s up to? Jay is as erratic, as stubborn, as overconfident, as exasperating as ever. And as much as he infuriates, you’ll anxiously watch his every stumbling step, urging him to keep it together, to protect the people who love him, and to extract some kind of justice and peace from the violence and chaos which surround him. Most of all, he just wants to be left alone. But Rahman takes Jay into dark and frightening places. He’s tricked, pursued, beaten, terrified, exploited, outwitted; so he blunders onwards, determined to do what feels like the right thing, or perhaps the least wrong thing. Maddening as he is, we want him to win.
If you’ve not read any of Jay’s previous misadventures, take my advice: do that first. Each of these thrillers works as a standalone, but this is a masterful series, with strong plot and character arcs running through them. In all truly satisfying thrillers, we come to know the protagonists as individuals, learning how they think, speak and act. And Jay and those around him – friends, enemies, family, exploiters, targets – are all well developed and credible. The plots gallop along like action films; and that action is hectic, scenes switching from comedy to terror in moments.
Today’s British thrillers need to reflect the real threats facing today’s Britain, or they’re just fantasies. Post-imperial echoes of The Circus of MI5 agents uncovering traitorous networks of Cold War spies just won’t cut it any more. The Jay Qasim series are so current they could arrive on your phone with a ping. These are the books which you want to be reading when, every day, the crazy events of this post-rational world can have you screaming in fear and rage from dawn to dusk. Screaming is quite rational, these books say; but when you stop to draw breath, you might surprise yourself by laughing.
So what comes next? When we learn that even James Bond has retired, how much more can Jay be expected to take? While I’d like to see Rahman developing, say, a police procedural-style thriller based around “Hounslow’s finest detective”, Jay’s acerbic buddy Idris Zaidi, there’s probably room for a little more yet from Jay himself. Can Rahman keep Jay Qasim going into a fourth novel, or even further? I wouldn’t bet against it, and I’ll be there to see what happens if he does.
If you’ve read “East Of Hounslow”, Rahman’s breakout novel, then you’ve already met Jay Qasim, West London’s recidivist slacker, small-scale drug dealer, reluctant MI5 agent and accidental jihadi. I read it with a grin on my face, loving this original character and voice, and wondering how the hell Jay was going to get out of a chain of increasingly desperate situations. No spoilers here, but the book ends with one of the best “what the hell – I didn’t see that coming” scenes I’ve read in years.
The sequel, “Home Grown Hero”, took Jay into yet deeper hot water, while Rahman proved his authorial chops by telling it with two simultaneous first person narratives. That’s a hard trick to carry off without confusing the reader, but Rahman has the confidence and skill to ace it. More importantly, it felt like the best way to tell that particular story. “Home Grown Hero” introduces a new second lead, Imran Siddiqui, a man as engaging as Jay but cut from very different cloth. To say too much here risks spoilers, but once more we were in West London, in a world of jihadist plotting, MI5 counter-terrorism and the bathos of petty drug deals. In counterpoint to the London events, scenes on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border showed us some of the characters’ motives and inspiration, and built up a real sense of dread. And Jay Qasim was floundering about in the middle of it all. Once again, we are served with a truly shocking jaw-dropper ending.
I opened “Ride Or Die”, Book Three in the series, with a pleasing sense of anticipation. How would Rahman build on the previous books? If you’ve read the first two, you won’t be disappointed. At the end of “Home Grown Hero”, Jay was in a bad state, psychologically. In “Ride Or Die”, we start again in London, and then we are taken to somewhere between Islamabad and Kabul, in an area which has been described as the world’s most dangerous border. Bouncing from dodgy Hounslow fried-chicken shops to well-heeled West End designer cafes, from Qatar luxury hotels to a terrorist training camp in Pakistan, Jay is pinballed between jihadi gunmen, deceitful MI5 agents, devious plotters, feckless buddies and ruthless killers. And for some inexplicable reason, he finds that he is worshipped as a famous revolutionary hero in a remote border town he’s never been to before.
What’s a Hounslow boy doing out there? What the hell does he think he’s up to? Jay is as erratic, as stubborn, as overconfident, as exasperating as ever. And as much as he infuriates, you’ll anxiously watch his every stumbling step, urging him to keep it together, to protect the people who love him, and to extract some kind of justice and peace from the violence and chaos which surround him. Most of all, he just wants to be left alone. But Rahman takes Jay into dark and frightening places. He’s tricked, pursued, beaten, terrified, exploited, outwitted; so he blunders onwards, determined to do what feels like the right thing, or perhaps the least wrong thing. Maddening as he is, we want him to win.
If you’ve not read any of Jay’s previous misadventures, take my advice: do that first. Each of these thrillers works as a standalone, but this is a masterful series, with strong plot and character arcs running through them. In all truly satisfying thrillers, we come to know the protagonists as individuals, learning how they think, speak and act. And Jay and those around him – friends, enemies, family, exploiters, targets – are all well developed and credible. The plots gallop along like action films; and that action is hectic, scenes switching from comedy to terror in moments.
Today’s British thrillers need to reflect the real threats facing today’s Britain, or they’re just fantasies. Post-imperial echoes of The Circus of MI5 agents uncovering traitorous networks of Cold War spies just won’t cut it any more. The Jay Qasim series are so current they could arrive on your phone with a ping. These are the books which you want to be reading when, every day, the crazy events of this post-rational world can have you screaming in fear and rage from dawn to dusk. Screaming is quite rational, these books say; but when you stop to draw breath, you might surprise yourself by laughing.
So what comes next? When we learn that even James Bond has retired, how much more can Jay be expected to take? While I’d like to see Rahman developing, say, a police procedural-style thriller based around “Hounslow’s finest detective”, Jay’s acerbic buddy Idris Zaidi, there’s probably room for a little more yet from Jay himself. Can Rahman keep Jay Qasim going into a fourth novel, or even further? I wouldn’t bet against it, and I’ll be there to see what happens if he does.
February 26, 2021
Khurram Raham writes believable, rounded characters who are easy to like while sometimes still being a pain in the bum. I like the humour and the complexity of love, loss, attachment and rejection. Bring on book 4!
May 12, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and HQ for an advance copy of Ride or Die, the third novel to feature Hownslow’s most reluctant spy, Javid “Jay” Qasim.
Through no fault of his own Jay is dragged back into the jihadi fray and forced By MI5 to partner with Imran “Imy” Saddiqi, the man who tried to kill him and who blames him for the loss of his family. They may have a common goal but everyone has their own agenda so trust is scarce.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ride or Die which is an exciting thriller that is also extremely funny. The novel is told from several points of view but mainly Jay and Imy in the first person. Imy is a man on a mission so his voice is uptight, vengeful and scheming and not a little self-righteous. Jay, on the other hand, is a mixed up, overgrown teenager with a cynical yet optimistic attitude that will make the reader laugh out loud. He falls into situations and manages to extricate himself on a regular basis, not through forward thinking or planning but by serendipity in one form or another. As Imy says, he has no “discernible skill-set” but he is an excellent creation and one of my favourite new characters.
The plot is exciting with plenty of tension and dangerous situations although Jay’s take on events cuts through the tension by offering a laugh. As the theme is Muslim terrorism the action moves from the mundane (Dubai) to the exotic (Hownslow) and a couple of other dangerous spots. I found sorting out the motives of the various characters quite difficult as they’re rather different to my life experiences but I’m not sure that it matters overly much as I just hooked on to Jay’s narrative and went along for the ride. I found it difficult to put the book down with it’s exciting action scenes, my curiosity about motives and where it would lead and my enjoyment of Jay’s take on life.
Ride or Die is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Through no fault of his own Jay is dragged back into the jihadi fray and forced By MI5 to partner with Imran “Imy” Saddiqi, the man who tried to kill him and who blames him for the loss of his family. They may have a common goal but everyone has their own agenda so trust is scarce.
I thoroughly enjoyed Ride or Die which is an exciting thriller that is also extremely funny. The novel is told from several points of view but mainly Jay and Imy in the first person. Imy is a man on a mission so his voice is uptight, vengeful and scheming and not a little self-righteous. Jay, on the other hand, is a mixed up, overgrown teenager with a cynical yet optimistic attitude that will make the reader laugh out loud. He falls into situations and manages to extricate himself on a regular basis, not through forward thinking or planning but by serendipity in one form or another. As Imy says, he has no “discernible skill-set” but he is an excellent creation and one of my favourite new characters.
The plot is exciting with plenty of tension and dangerous situations although Jay’s take on events cuts through the tension by offering a laugh. As the theme is Muslim terrorism the action moves from the mundane (Dubai) to the exotic (Hownslow) and a couple of other dangerous spots. I found sorting out the motives of the various characters quite difficult as they’re rather different to my life experiences but I’m not sure that it matters overly much as I just hooked on to Jay’s narrative and went along for the ride. I found it difficult to put the book down with it’s exciting action scenes, my curiosity about motives and where it would lead and my enjoyment of Jay’s take on life.
Ride or Die is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
May 21, 2020
The third outing for Jay Qasim, wise talking reluctant spy. We join Jay shortly after the end of the second book and, while I won’t spoil anything, I would strongly suggest that these books should be read in order to understand the complexity of plot and the character development.
Hugely enjoyable, bang up to date and with an irreverent take on the genre, this is a series which keeps getting better.
With thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for an advanced copy in consideration of an honest review.
Hugely enjoyable, bang up to date and with an irreverent take on the genre, this is a series which keeps getting better.
With thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for an advanced copy in consideration of an honest review.
January 14, 2022
Come on Khurram, I need to know what happened exactly!!! Crack on with book 4 ASAP please :-)
April 22, 2020
I loved Mr Rahman’s East Of Hounslow, a refreshingly different thriller with an unusual reluctant hero in Javid “ call me Jay” Qasim, working undercover for MI5 to uncover a terrorist plot. In his second book, Homegrown Hero, Jay’s story continued and the reader was introduced to Imran.
In this latest novel we catch up with both characters as they are brought together in a search for Jay’s estranged terrorist father “The Teacher” who was supposedly killed in the earlier book. Is he still alive and what will Jay do if he finds him?
Jay and Imran are both sympathetic characters and gel well together. At the end of Homegrown Hero there was an explosion at Imran’s wedding and Ride or Die reveals what happened to Imy and his family. I’ve been waiting over a year for this information so was excited to see this book up for review!
Jay is his indomitable self and despite his lack of espionage experience he manages to keep going throughout the quest. Imy’s and Jay’s unlikely alliance becomes stronger as the two jet off to Pakistan to continue the search.
The introduction of a possible girlfriend for Jay was great and the manner of her appearance was as ever very well done. Sophia is also an interesting character and I look forward to hearing more about her in the next book-Hopefully there will be another one as the ending was a proverbial cliffhanger!!
A thoroughly enjoyable and exciting read which kept me entertained throughout. Ride Or Die was the perfect distraction from what is happening in the real world at the moment.One of the few positives from the current situation is that it has given me plenty of time to read books by my favourite authors of which Khurrum Rahman is definitely one!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.
In this latest novel we catch up with both characters as they are brought together in a search for Jay’s estranged terrorist father “The Teacher” who was supposedly killed in the earlier book. Is he still alive and what will Jay do if he finds him?
Jay and Imran are both sympathetic characters and gel well together. At the end of Homegrown Hero there was an explosion at Imran’s wedding and Ride or Die reveals what happened to Imy and his family. I’ve been waiting over a year for this information so was excited to see this book up for review!
Jay is his indomitable self and despite his lack of espionage experience he manages to keep going throughout the quest. Imy’s and Jay’s unlikely alliance becomes stronger as the two jet off to Pakistan to continue the search.
The introduction of a possible girlfriend for Jay was great and the manner of her appearance was as ever very well done. Sophia is also an interesting character and I look forward to hearing more about her in the next book-Hopefully there will be another one as the ending was a proverbial cliffhanger!!
A thoroughly enjoyable and exciting read which kept me entertained throughout. Ride Or Die was the perfect distraction from what is happening in the real world at the moment.One of the few positives from the current situation is that it has given me plenty of time to read books by my favourite authors of which Khurrum Rahman is definitely one!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2020
Enjoyable and rewarding to catch up with the familiar characters. Sadly for me, this third in the series delivered slightly less, possibly because my expectations were higher.
I preferred the plot in this book (to that in book two) and felt on the whole it was more plausible. However this was the least well edited of the three books and for me, it is jarring to read a book so riddled with easily-editable errors (shame on the editor). I am sure I am not the only one one to notice....
Khurrum Rahman delivers a good plot with solid characterisation, even if I struggle to remember all the characters from book to book.
The inevitable cliffhanger points to book four, although I anticipate it less. It will have to break with some of the formula and deliver a better edited more unexpected approach (as it stands I could probably write it myself!)
Still, good to catch up with Jay and Imy again, and to see how their characters evolve together.
I preferred the plot in this book (to that in book two) and felt on the whole it was more plausible. However this was the least well edited of the three books and for me, it is jarring to read a book so riddled with easily-editable errors (shame on the editor). I am sure I am not the only one one to notice....
Khurrum Rahman delivers a good plot with solid characterisation, even if I struggle to remember all the characters from book to book.
The inevitable cliffhanger points to book four, although I anticipate it less. It will have to break with some of the formula and deliver a better edited more unexpected approach (as it stands I could probably write it myself!)
Still, good to catch up with Jay and Imy again, and to see how their characters evolve together.
July 9, 2020
Poor Jay. After a brief moment in time where he hoped that joining MI5 would allow him to make a difference, all he has really wanted is to live a regular life. After the shattering events in Homegrown Hero, he is finally able to take his much-needed holiday, visiting his mum in Qatar. However, his best friend, Idris arrives with news from Hounslow which shakes him to his core and he makes the immediate decision to fly back home to England.
Being away from home meant Jay hadn't heard about the tragedy which hit the headlines and led to fights and riots. It gave the journalists another chance to print provocative, divisive headlines; it took everything from Imran Siddiqui. The attack itself isn't described in great detail but the brief summary of what happened and who caused it is devastating, with Imy's visceral pain almost too unbearable to imagine.
Although this book is primarily about Jay and Imy, a new character, Sophia has an important role to play when she agrees to help a mysterious stranger in what is described as a 'victimless crime'. Sophia is clearly disappointed with her life and longs for more and though it's clear that she is deluding herself, I couldn't help but feel for her when she realises she has made a terrible decision. Her actions lead to shocking situation and news that eventually draws Jay and Imy together but with such a difficult history between them, it looks as if expecting them to work with one another is an impossible ask.
I'm trying hard to review Ride or Die without giving away too many spoilers from the previous novels. While there is no reason why a newcomer to this series couldn't read this one as a standalone and be able to understand what brings the characters to this point, I really would encourage anybody to read the books in order to truly appreciate the emotional intensity of the series arc.
Jay and Imy eventually agree to travel to Pakistan together, both on the search for some kind of final reckoning. The scenes in Pakistan and Afghanistan are imbued with a constant sense of tension but as always, Khurrum Rahman sprinkles the narrative with wit and humour, and here the relationship between the two men is a quintessential odd couple pairing. Imy is understandably more restrained and taciturn, his bitterness seeping out of him at times but there are moments where his lighter side is revealed which ironically makes his anguish even harder to bear. Jay is more reactionary, more excitable but he has an inner courage and a set of morals which mean his own emotions are tested to the limit. One of my favourite aspects of these books is just how emotive they are at times - Jay, in particular is frequently shown to be shedding tears which further underlines just how believable and relatable he is as a protagonist.
On its most straightforward level this is a gripping buddy movie spy thriller with a taut, almost cinematic conclusion which is perfectly executed. However, it's also a perceptive, powerful and authentic examination of contemporary global issues and is a stark reminder of the way terror groups are built and how they adapt. It's more than even that though; Jay and Imy's experiences are beyond what most people will ever know but ultimately this outstanding novel is about the universal need for acceptance and belonging. Ride or Die is an extraordinarily good and as with East of Hounslow and Homegrown Hero, I urge you to read it.
Being away from home meant Jay hadn't heard about the tragedy which hit the headlines and led to fights and riots. It gave the journalists another chance to print provocative, divisive headlines; it took everything from Imran Siddiqui. The attack itself isn't described in great detail but the brief summary of what happened and who caused it is devastating, with Imy's visceral pain almost too unbearable to imagine.
Although this book is primarily about Jay and Imy, a new character, Sophia has an important role to play when she agrees to help a mysterious stranger in what is described as a 'victimless crime'. Sophia is clearly disappointed with her life and longs for more and though it's clear that she is deluding herself, I couldn't help but feel for her when she realises she has made a terrible decision. Her actions lead to shocking situation and news that eventually draws Jay and Imy together but with such a difficult history between them, it looks as if expecting them to work with one another is an impossible ask.
I'm trying hard to review Ride or Die without giving away too many spoilers from the previous novels. While there is no reason why a newcomer to this series couldn't read this one as a standalone and be able to understand what brings the characters to this point, I really would encourage anybody to read the books in order to truly appreciate the emotional intensity of the series arc.
Jay and Imy eventually agree to travel to Pakistan together, both on the search for some kind of final reckoning. The scenes in Pakistan and Afghanistan are imbued with a constant sense of tension but as always, Khurrum Rahman sprinkles the narrative with wit and humour, and here the relationship between the two men is a quintessential odd couple pairing. Imy is understandably more restrained and taciturn, his bitterness seeping out of him at times but there are moments where his lighter side is revealed which ironically makes his anguish even harder to bear. Jay is more reactionary, more excitable but he has an inner courage and a set of morals which mean his own emotions are tested to the limit. One of my favourite aspects of these books is just how emotive they are at times - Jay, in particular is frequently shown to be shedding tears which further underlines just how believable and relatable he is as a protagonist.
On its most straightforward level this is a gripping buddy movie spy thriller with a taut, almost cinematic conclusion which is perfectly executed. However, it's also a perceptive, powerful and authentic examination of contemporary global issues and is a stark reminder of the way terror groups are built and how they adapt. It's more than even that though; Jay and Imy's experiences are beyond what most people will ever know but ultimately this outstanding novel is about the universal need for acceptance and belonging. Ride or Die is an extraordinarily good and as with East of Hounslow and Homegrown Hero, I urge you to read it.
July 7, 2020
'Ride Or Die' is the third book in the series featuring Britain's most reluctant spy, Jay Qasim. I read and loved the first two books in the series ('East Of Hounslow' & 'Homegrown Hero') and so when I heard that the third book in the series was due for imminent release, I just knew that I had to get a copy as soon as I could and squirrel myself away until I had finished reading. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Ride Or Die' but more about that in a bit.
What can I say about Jay Qasim? He is a bit of a lovable rogue but I found myself liking him more and more. Initially he was a drug dealer but somehow he managed to end up working for MI5, much to his dislike. Qasim thought that he had left his spy days behind him but this book sees a return to his old role. Qasim is what I would call a canny fella. Qasim has a dryish sense of humour and even when his character is going through hell, he still finds something amusing. Jay has a potty mouth and if his ego was to get any bigger he would have trouble fitting his head through the door. In other words he is very cocky and sometimes he doesn't put his brain in gear before he starts to speak.
I thought that the other two books in the series were good, but 'Ride Or Die' blows the first two out of the water and it is easily my favourite book of the series to date. It didn't take me long at all to get into this story. In fact as soon as I started reading that was it. I found it nigh on impossible to put the book down for any length of time. If I wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about the book. If I had to put the book down for any length of time, then I would immediately look forward to being able to get back to reading the book. It was as if the book had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn't willing to break. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I managed to binge read the book within a single day, which is brilliant going for me and illustrates just how flipping much I enjoyed reading 'Ride Or Die'.
'Ride Or Die' is superbly written but then I have found all of the books in the series to be superbly written. In Qasim, the author has created an interesting and intriguing character who can switch from drama to humour with the flick of a switch. The story started with a bang, it hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading this book felt a bit like being on a sometimes scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride. Just when you thought that you could take a breather, gather your thoughts and reclaim your stomach then off the action would go again. I love the way in which the author writes about subjects which are certainly topical- terrorism, religion, misconceptions of certain groups and so on. I felt as though I was part of the story and that was thanks to Khurrum's very vivid and realistic writing style. 'Ride Or Die' is a tightly plotted, action packed, dramatic story, which kept me gripped and on the edge of my seat throughout.
In short, I thoroughly enoyed reading 'Ride Or Die' and I would definitely recommend this series and this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Khurrum's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
What can I say about Jay Qasim? He is a bit of a lovable rogue but I found myself liking him more and more. Initially he was a drug dealer but somehow he managed to end up working for MI5, much to his dislike. Qasim thought that he had left his spy days behind him but this book sees a return to his old role. Qasim is what I would call a canny fella. Qasim has a dryish sense of humour and even when his character is going through hell, he still finds something amusing. Jay has a potty mouth and if his ego was to get any bigger he would have trouble fitting his head through the door. In other words he is very cocky and sometimes he doesn't put his brain in gear before he starts to speak.
I thought that the other two books in the series were good, but 'Ride Or Die' blows the first two out of the water and it is easily my favourite book of the series to date. It didn't take me long at all to get into this story. In fact as soon as I started reading that was it. I found it nigh on impossible to put the book down for any length of time. If I wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about the book. If I had to put the book down for any length of time, then I would immediately look forward to being able to get back to reading the book. It was as if the book had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn't willing to break. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I managed to binge read the book within a single day, which is brilliant going for me and illustrates just how flipping much I enjoyed reading 'Ride Or Die'.
'Ride Or Die' is superbly written but then I have found all of the books in the series to be superbly written. In Qasim, the author has created an interesting and intriguing character who can switch from drama to humour with the flick of a switch. The story started with a bang, it hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading this book felt a bit like being on a sometimes scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride. Just when you thought that you could take a breather, gather your thoughts and reclaim your stomach then off the action would go again. I love the way in which the author writes about subjects which are certainly topical- terrorism, religion, misconceptions of certain groups and so on. I felt as though I was part of the story and that was thanks to Khurrum's very vivid and realistic writing style. 'Ride Or Die' is a tightly plotted, action packed, dramatic story, which kept me gripped and on the edge of my seat throughout.
In short, I thoroughly enoyed reading 'Ride Or Die' and I would definitely recommend this series and this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Khurrum's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
July 14, 2020
This is the third outing for Jay Qassim, the protagonist of Khurrum Rahman’s excellent spy thriller series. I’ve read and reviewed both of the previous books and was very keen to read this and see how poor Jay is getting on.
Ride or Die picks up where book two, Homegrown Hero, left off. Imran Siddiqui, one-time sleeper terrorist and a man who was tasked to kill Jay and failed to do so, lives with the consequences: his family murdered in a suicide bombing revenge attack. Jay Qassim for his part has been dropped by MI5 once more. Always the unwitting agent, they now have no further use for him. There’s tension between the two because Imran blames Jay for the death of his family. If only he had obeyed his orders and killed Jay, his family would still be alive. Jay for his part feels overwhelmed by guilt.
These two are thrown together once more when they learn that Jay’s father, the leader of a global jihadi group, might still be alive. Jay is conflicted. He hates what his father did, the terrorism that he instigated, but the man's still his dad. Imran blames Jay’s father most of all for the death of his family, it was he after all who gave the orders. The two are tasked to go to Pakistan/Afghanistan to track down Jay’s father, but they both have conflicting and unspoken intentions for what to do when they get there. And what of MI5? And what of the new splinter group, more virulent than that which Jay’s father led?’
Ride or Die is a slight departure for Rahman in that his previous two books have focused a lot more on Jay's relationship with MI5. He was bullied to a great extent into becoming a source for the Security Service and this portrayal, and the tensions between on the one hand MI5 doing valuable work in stopping terrorism, and on the other, their manipulation and coercion of young Muslims in order to achieve this, was very well portrayed. In this book, MI5 is still on the scene, but Jay is divorced from it to a greater extent because he’s in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and he has his own motivations for being there.
But the fact that the author has taken a slightly different path for this novel is no bad thing and Ride or Die remains a great addition to the series. Neither has the author lost his eye for critical representation of the intelligence agencies and Western foreign policy. Without lapsing into polemic, neither gets off lightly in this novel. While no excuses are made for the jihadis and their violence, this novel, like its predecessors, continues to be a corrective to some of the more tub-thumping examples of the spy thriller genre.
Finally, I need to say something about the humour in this title. In each of my reviews for Rahman’s novels, I’ve tended to focus on the more serious elements and neglected to stress how these are also great fun to read. Jay is his usual brash and bolshy self, always ready with a quip and a great turn of phrase. These books are a joy to read but have a heart and a cerebral core too.
As always with Rahman, Ride or Die is highly recommended, and I look forward to the next instalment in the series.
Ride or Die picks up where book two, Homegrown Hero, left off. Imran Siddiqui, one-time sleeper terrorist and a man who was tasked to kill Jay and failed to do so, lives with the consequences: his family murdered in a suicide bombing revenge attack. Jay Qassim for his part has been dropped by MI5 once more. Always the unwitting agent, they now have no further use for him. There’s tension between the two because Imran blames Jay for the death of his family. If only he had obeyed his orders and killed Jay, his family would still be alive. Jay for his part feels overwhelmed by guilt.
These two are thrown together once more when they learn that Jay’s father, the leader of a global jihadi group, might still be alive. Jay is conflicted. He hates what his father did, the terrorism that he instigated, but the man's still his dad. Imran blames Jay’s father most of all for the death of his family, it was he after all who gave the orders. The two are tasked to go to Pakistan/Afghanistan to track down Jay’s father, but they both have conflicting and unspoken intentions for what to do when they get there. And what of MI5? And what of the new splinter group, more virulent than that which Jay’s father led?’
Ride or Die is a slight departure for Rahman in that his previous two books have focused a lot more on Jay's relationship with MI5. He was bullied to a great extent into becoming a source for the Security Service and this portrayal, and the tensions between on the one hand MI5 doing valuable work in stopping terrorism, and on the other, their manipulation and coercion of young Muslims in order to achieve this, was very well portrayed. In this book, MI5 is still on the scene, but Jay is divorced from it to a greater extent because he’s in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and he has his own motivations for being there.
But the fact that the author has taken a slightly different path for this novel is no bad thing and Ride or Die remains a great addition to the series. Neither has the author lost his eye for critical representation of the intelligence agencies and Western foreign policy. Without lapsing into polemic, neither gets off lightly in this novel. While no excuses are made for the jihadis and their violence, this novel, like its predecessors, continues to be a corrective to some of the more tub-thumping examples of the spy thriller genre.
Finally, I need to say something about the humour in this title. In each of my reviews for Rahman’s novels, I’ve tended to focus on the more serious elements and neglected to stress how these are also great fun to read. Jay is his usual brash and bolshy self, always ready with a quip and a great turn of phrase. These books are a joy to read but have a heart and a cerebral core too.
As always with Rahman, Ride or Die is highly recommended, and I look forward to the next instalment in the series.
May 9, 2022
“Ride or Die is an thrilling suspense that dares to ask the question: what happens when your sworn enemy becomes your closest companion, when the man who once tried to kill you becomes your protector? After once trying to kill Javid “Jay” Qasim, Imran “Imy” Siddiqui must now be his companion and protect him on the MI5 mission in which they have been thrown together with a common goal: eliminate “The Teacher,” al Jabbar, who just happens to be Jay’s Jihadist father.
This exciting novel is compelling, examining a Jihadi world most of us have read about on the news, but have never experienced. It’s full of trauma, current and past, and the lengths two men will go to seek revenge. Jay wants to eliminate his extremist father al Jabbar, “The Teacher,” after finding out that reports of his death were false, and he is in fact still alive. He is the man Jay both loves and hates; a father to millions but not to his own son. Imy seeks payback for the murder of his wife and son, killed on their wedding day, which, as the survivor, was at once the happiest and worst day of his life. Jay is the man he once tried to kill, a rambling, panicky, incompetent former MI5 agent that you can’t help but like. He is the polar opposite of Imran “Imy,” his taciturn, angry, reluctant-is-a-total-understatement companion through Pakistan and Afghanistan. Thrown together on this mission by MI5, they are “Ride or Die” companions, off to find and eliminate al Jabbar. Although this is Book Three of the Javid Qasim series, and I haven’t had the opportunity to read the first two novels, I found this to be a fine, thoroughly enjoyable, exciting standalone work, and I’m looking forward to reading the other novels to fill in the background.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, Khurrum Rahman, and HQ Publishing for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
This exciting novel is compelling, examining a Jihadi world most of us have read about on the news, but have never experienced. It’s full of trauma, current and past, and the lengths two men will go to seek revenge. Jay wants to eliminate his extremist father al Jabbar, “The Teacher,” after finding out that reports of his death were false, and he is in fact still alive. He is the man Jay both loves and hates; a father to millions but not to his own son. Imy seeks payback for the murder of his wife and son, killed on their wedding day, which, as the survivor, was at once the happiest and worst day of his life. Jay is the man he once tried to kill, a rambling, panicky, incompetent former MI5 agent that you can’t help but like. He is the polar opposite of Imran “Imy,” his taciturn, angry, reluctant-is-a-total-understatement companion through Pakistan and Afghanistan. Thrown together on this mission by MI5, they are “Ride or Die” companions, off to find and eliminate al Jabbar. Although this is Book Three of the Javid Qasim series, and I haven’t had the opportunity to read the first two novels, I found this to be a fine, thoroughly enjoyable, exciting standalone work, and I’m looking forward to reading the other novels to fill in the background.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, Khurrum Rahman, and HQ Publishing for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2020
Woo-Woo, it's time to step on board the Jay Train once again! Usual series rules apply as this is the third in a cracking series that, in my opinion, would be best read in order. Jay has a colourful and chequered past which is integral to the plot of this book.
So, he's left all the spy stuff behind him finally and, when we first catch up with Jay he is on holiday visiting his mum. His peace doesn't last long as, due to circumstances beyond his wildest nightmares, Jay is once again drawn into the Jihadi life when he is forced to team up with Imy, the guy who tried to kill him, as they appear to have a common goal... To trust or not to trust, that is a very important question and, in the action that follows, Jay will have to have all his wits about him, and then some, if he is to achieve his goal and survive the experience...
Oh My! I love this series. I love all things Jay. And his character is even more enhanced by the predicaments that the author puts him through... It's a thrilling, exciting, and often perilous ride all the way through as Jay faces many challenges along the way to get his goal. But he's not the green, audacious, naive young man we first met in the series opener, no, he's matured and learned a lot in his time. Yes he does have his moments, and that is reflected in some of the humour interspersed throughout the story, but on the whole he's a much more serious lad.
Pacing is spot on and the story gets on with itself very well, the action and suspense ramps up towards the end and, oh my!, that ending... Leaving me satisfied with this episode by gagging for the next.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already great series. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So, he's left all the spy stuff behind him finally and, when we first catch up with Jay he is on holiday visiting his mum. His peace doesn't last long as, due to circumstances beyond his wildest nightmares, Jay is once again drawn into the Jihadi life when he is forced to team up with Imy, the guy who tried to kill him, as they appear to have a common goal... To trust or not to trust, that is a very important question and, in the action that follows, Jay will have to have all his wits about him, and then some, if he is to achieve his goal and survive the experience...
Oh My! I love this series. I love all things Jay. And his character is even more enhanced by the predicaments that the author puts him through... It's a thrilling, exciting, and often perilous ride all the way through as Jay faces many challenges along the way to get his goal. But he's not the green, audacious, naive young man we first met in the series opener, no, he's matured and learned a lot in his time. Yes he does have his moments, and that is reflected in some of the humour interspersed throughout the story, but on the whole he's a much more serious lad.
Pacing is spot on and the story gets on with itself very well, the action and suspense ramps up towards the end and, oh my!, that ending... Leaving me satisfied with this episode by gagging for the next.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already great series. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
December 6, 2022
Jay is back in this third and final instalment of the series, and after learning his father AKA The Teacher is still alive, he decides to try and find him even though he made a promise to himself that after MI5 screwed him over twice before that he would never work with them again. He wants to do things his way this time and brig his dad in to pay for all the horrendous things he has done. When he gets a surprise visit yet again, Jay's hand is forced when he must work with Imy, the very man who had been sent to kill him previously. Can he trust him? What will happen if and when he finds his dad?
Meanwhile Imy is struggling with his own demons and drowning in grief can he put his personal feelings for Jay aside, and work with Jay to finally bring The Teacher down for good? Jay has a personal agenda, can Imy truly trust him?
This book was amazing! As the story unfolded, there were parts that I felt like shouting no! I was engrossed from the very beginning; I couldn't stop reading! It was lovely seeing the relationship unfold between Jay and Imy, and you couldn't help but feel for them both albeit on different levels. I had no idea what was going to happen next, or where the author was taking me, but I loved the journey! Fantastic book, fantastic series, and I really hope the author writes another, as I am eager to see what the future holds for these two characters!
Meanwhile Imy is struggling with his own demons and drowning in grief can he put his personal feelings for Jay aside, and work with Jay to finally bring The Teacher down for good? Jay has a personal agenda, can Imy truly trust him?
This book was amazing! As the story unfolded, there were parts that I felt like shouting no! I was engrossed from the very beginning; I couldn't stop reading! It was lovely seeing the relationship unfold between Jay and Imy, and you couldn't help but feel for them both albeit on different levels. I had no idea what was going to happen next, or where the author was taking me, but I loved the journey! Fantastic book, fantastic series, and I really hope the author writes another, as I am eager to see what the future holds for these two characters!
December 29, 2023
I loved the first two Jay Qasim books and had bought this, the third, a while ago. I was prompted to hunt it down on my kindle after buying a paper copy from the local library's pile of withdrawn books. Every year I buy a few dozen for my sister in law who loves a good murder mystery or crime.
I couldn't help wondering if she was actually going to be able to follow this one. I know the characters. I'm quite invested in Jay and his life. I'm not sure that she'll do so well starting on book number 3 in a series.
My recommendation? Don't start here. Read the other two first and maybe don't leave it as long as I have before taking on this one.
Jay's an ex small-time drug dealer who discovers in an earlier volume that his father is the head of an Islamic terrorist group. He is recruited (not entirely of his own free will) by the security services to help thwart an attack.
I like Jay.
I like some of his friends.
I'm not entirely sure I completely understood his relationship with they guy he goes to Pakistan with the look for his father (a father we were told had been killed but is still alive and frail).
I will buy the next one. Probably the one after that too. But I like these books better when there's more reflection on UK life and politics.
I couldn't help wondering if she was actually going to be able to follow this one. I know the characters. I'm quite invested in Jay and his life. I'm not sure that she'll do so well starting on book number 3 in a series.
My recommendation? Don't start here. Read the other two first and maybe don't leave it as long as I have before taking on this one.
Jay's an ex small-time drug dealer who discovers in an earlier volume that his father is the head of an Islamic terrorist group. He is recruited (not entirely of his own free will) by the security services to help thwart an attack.
I like Jay.
I like some of his friends.
I'm not entirely sure I completely understood his relationship with they guy he goes to Pakistan with the look for his father (a father we were told had been killed but is still alive and frail).
I will buy the next one. Probably the one after that too. But I like these books better when there's more reflection on UK life and politics.
June 1, 2023
Ride or Die is the third book in the excellent thriller series about reluctant spy Jay Qasim.
As the story starts, Jay is holidaying at the hotel in Qatar where his mum works on reception. Cast aside by MI5, having outlived his usefulness to the spooks, he's slowly facing up to returning to London and settling back into a normal life. Needless to say, that doesn't happen and before he knows it, he's up to his neck in another dangerous situation.
I love Jay's character - smart, but with a tendency to run his mouth off and a witty line in backchat. He still hasn't outgrown his tendency to act first and think later, which frequently lands him in hot water. Most importantly, he understands the motivations of young Muslims, why some are susceptible to radicalisation and how it happens, much better than his handlers. He doesn't view the world in terms of good and evil, us and them, but instead sees all the complexities and variations between. He is moral and loyal, but often conflicted and this makes his portrayal highly realistic.
The plot is gripping with plenty of action and tension. It's a real page-turner and the ending left me desperate for more - Khurrum Rahman, hurry up with book four please!
As the story starts, Jay is holidaying at the hotel in Qatar where his mum works on reception. Cast aside by MI5, having outlived his usefulness to the spooks, he's slowly facing up to returning to London and settling back into a normal life. Needless to say, that doesn't happen and before he knows it, he's up to his neck in another dangerous situation.
I love Jay's character - smart, but with a tendency to run his mouth off and a witty line in backchat. He still hasn't outgrown his tendency to act first and think later, which frequently lands him in hot water. Most importantly, he understands the motivations of young Muslims, why some are susceptible to radicalisation and how it happens, much better than his handlers. He doesn't view the world in terms of good and evil, us and them, but instead sees all the complexities and variations between. He is moral and loyal, but often conflicted and this makes his portrayal highly realistic.
The plot is gripping with plenty of action and tension. It's a real page-turner and the ending left me desperate for more - Khurrum Rahman, hurry up with book four please!
July 9, 2020
The third book in the Jay Qasim series, but the first one I've read. There's a quick catch up of events and character details but read the earlier books first if you can. The writing style is informal and urban and draws you into Jay's world quickly. There are action, hatred and violence but also love, reflection and selflessness in this thriller.
Jay and his nemesis Imy are both conflicted but likeable. They have the arrogance of youth but tempered by what they've done lost and seen. This book views the world through their eyes, and it's a disturbing place to be. The themes are current, but the interpretation is literary. This is an adrenaline-fueled dangerous adventure which keeps the reader invested and on the edge of their seats.
I received a copy of this book from HQ via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Jay and his nemesis Imy are both conflicted but likeable. They have the arrogance of youth but tempered by what they've done lost and seen. This book views the world through their eyes, and it's a disturbing place to be. The themes are current, but the interpretation is literary. This is an adrenaline-fueled dangerous adventure which keeps the reader invested and on the edge of their seats.
I received a copy of this book from HQ via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 2, 2020
Pakistan was their motherland but England was home to Jay & Imy. They are young British Muslims. Part of a war that should not be happening. They should be friends. Now they are enemies.
Khurrum Rahman's third thriller - his best yet - is once again an impartial take on a war that divides cultures & faiths, & causes unnecessary bloodshed on both sides.
Jay & Imy are great characters. Part heroes, part anti-heroes. They are written with such empathy that one has to love them rather than hate them.
There's gritty action, the thrill of the chase, but also tear-jerking moments of utter tragedy.
Khurrum Rahman is a writer fast-approaching literary perfection.
Khurrum Rahman's third thriller - his best yet - is once again an impartial take on a war that divides cultures & faiths, & causes unnecessary bloodshed on both sides.
Jay & Imy are great characters. Part heroes, part anti-heroes. They are written with such empathy that one has to love them rather than hate them.
There's gritty action, the thrill of the chase, but also tear-jerking moments of utter tragedy.
Khurrum Rahman is a writer fast-approaching literary perfection.
July 17, 2020
SPOILERS FOR EARLIER BOOKS
Another good instalment from a thriller series that’s a bit different. Jay, the reluctant sometime MI5 operative discovers that the family of the man who failed to assassinate him, has been murdered in revenge. Filled with guilt, Jay breaks off his holiday to go and see the man, who of course doesn’t want to see him. The pair get tied up in a plot involving Jay’s father. I was grateful for the reminders in the story about what had previously happened, I would have struggled otherwise!
Another good instalment from a thriller series that’s a bit different. Jay, the reluctant sometime MI5 operative discovers that the family of the man who failed to assassinate him, has been murdered in revenge. Filled with guilt, Jay breaks off his holiday to go and see the man, who of course doesn’t want to see him. The pair get tied up in a plot involving Jay’s father. I was grateful for the reminders in the story about what had previously happened, I would have struggled otherwise!
June 3, 2022
I thought it couldn't get better. It just did.
The first two books in the series were candidates for my Book Of The Year. Brilliant storytelling with the best dialogue I have read and in all honesty I was half expecting a drop in quality, the standard being so high.
Nothing of the sort. The standard just got higher. The outstanding characters are back, the plotting keeps you reading long after you should have stopped and again the dialogue is the bench mark.
Well done Mr Rahman, you've done again, another Book Of The Year for me.
The first two books in the series were candidates for my Book Of The Year. Brilliant storytelling with the best dialogue I have read and in all honesty I was half expecting a drop in quality, the standard being so high.
Nothing of the sort. The standard just got higher. The outstanding characters are back, the plotting keeps you reading long after you should have stopped and again the dialogue is the bench mark.
Well done Mr Rahman, you've done again, another Book Of The Year for me.
July 17, 2025
How is there not a book #4? There's got to be a Jay Qasim #4!?!
This series absolutely MUST be made into a Netflix streaming show. No. I think it'd be better on Apple TV. It would be such a huge hit. HUGE HIT.
Action. Drama. Sorrow. Angst. Humor. Very real. I love these characters. I love this series. This was a fabulous read!
Please let there be a Jay Qasim #4. Or a new series or whatever. A new Khurrum Rahman book. I bet he could even write an entertaining grocery list. Here's hoping there'll be more to read in the future!
This series absolutely MUST be made into a Netflix streaming show. No. I think it'd be better on Apple TV. It would be such a huge hit. HUGE HIT.
Action. Drama. Sorrow. Angst. Humor. Very real. I love these characters. I love this series. This was a fabulous read!
Please let there be a Jay Qasim #4. Or a new series or whatever. A new Khurrum Rahman book. I bet he could even write an entertaining grocery list. Here's hoping there'll be more to read in the future!
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