Reviews

The Rib King by Ladee Hubbard

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vistacanas's review

dark informative sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.75

“You can’t wish this world away and you can’t shoot your way out either. You just have to find the strength to rise above it. By being excellent. That’s how you cope with this world, Jennie…quality is what endures. Excellence is what’s real.”

The Rib King offers a peek into the lives of characters tied to the wealthy Tillman family in early 20th century America. The first half of the book focuses on August Sitwell, a servant in the Tillman household, whose culinary skills catapult him to fame.

Just as you settle into August's story, there’s an abrupt shift to Jennie, another servant in the household. Having bonded with August, this was quite unsettling. Plus, not only does the author skip over the most pivotal scene in the book, she never provides closure to August’s story from his point of view.

Despite the jolt of the character transition and its general predictability, this was an enjoyable read that gave me a glimpse into an racially tense era in U.S. history through the eyes of a host of vibrant and likable characters.

Content Warnings

bekarebeka's review

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dark tense fast-paced

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

4.5

simplyselicia's review

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3.0

I thought this one was super intriguing, but a little harder to pin down. I liked the characters, the setting, and how everything wove into the other over time, however, there were some pacing issues. It was fairly easy listening, and I could see the plot so clearly in my mind while doing so. It's not my typical read so I had to go back a few times, but it seemed to wrap up so quickly compared to the start.

I was okay with the slower pacing and description of the first half, but identified more with the second. Check it out if you like to think about various perspectives in history and the circumstances of those that have been a part of it whether it be fiction or not.