A review by nicolelee9
Bodies to Die For by Lori Brand

adventurous mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

 

Lori Brand's debut novel is a wild and thought-provoking ride that dives deep into body image and societal expectations, told from multiple POVs. The story brings together Gemma and Ashley, two women at opposite ends of the body spectrum. Gemma, who dropped 100 pounds, is living her best life as a fit girl, complete with a hot husband, a bodybuilding career, and a top athletic brand sponsorship. But as she preps for the Olympia, she's constantly worried about gaining the weight back. On the flip side, Ashley, who's 100 pounds overweight, finds empowerment with a group of passionate Fat Activists.

As they deal with their personal struggles, a series of murders targeting fit girls adds a page turning layer of suspense. Gemma fears she might be next, while Ashley finds herself caught in the danger. Their stories collide in an explosive ending you won’t want to miss. Brand does a fantastic job balancing intense, fast-paced action with meaningful commentary on beauty standards, keeping a neutral and compassionate tone throughout. She mixes snarky humor with deep empathy, making the book a really engaging read.

Brand's novel is a unique mix of who-done-it thriller and empowering social critique, delivering a powerful message about body image without shaming anyone. It's a must-read for anyone looking for an exciting plot and an enlightening take on body wars.

Thank you to NetGalley, Blackstone, and Lori Brand for this ARC!