RIDE ON

A retired cyclist takes a job with a wealthy eccentric in Coleman’s novel.

Richard Timothy is a pro cyclist who has recently given up his career competing in various international tournaments. In contrast to his professional success, the rest of his life is a bit uninspired, including but not limited to a flailing relationship with his girlfriend, Alice, a corporate lawyer. Unmoored and unwilling to take a conventional gig, Richard happens upon an online job listing from someone seeking a “domestique” (a rider who supports the cycling team in various ways, such as a keeping the pace) to tow his dog. The ad was placed by Karl Hyacinth, a rich and quirky gentleman who, by his own admission is, “‘well-off’ rich, not ‘Bond supervillain’ rich” and lives near Sedona, Arizona. Karl, along with his dog, Orion, is on a treasure hunt along Route 66 and needs a cyclist to accompany him. (The treasure hunt was created by Ghostrider, a mysterious and anonymous user of Routz, a bike-riding app.) After setting out on their journey, Richard, Karl, and Orion travel to a casino in Cabazon, California. While there, the pair meets Eileen, a veteran and amputee. Romance blossoms between Richard and Eileen, but after Richard confesses his love, Eileen rejects him and flees. As Richard and Karl struggle through challenges both emotional and physical, they forge a deeper bond. Coleman’s story is unique in its premise and is sure to be enjoyed by even those lacking in pro-cycling knowledge. The tale is full of engaging humor, as the bulk of the text is devoted to witty repartee between Karl and Richard. While Coleman’s prose is funny and engaging, it is also occasionally meandering, which can make the narrative drag a bit. Still, the novel is refreshing and, at times, laugh-out-loud funny.

An amusing and ambitious road trip comedy.