Review

As a BBQ professional, Lulu Taylor isn’t allowed to complete in the Rock and Ribs festival, but she’s excited to take some time off from her restaurant to attend the event. Lulu wants to give moral support to her best friend, Cherry, who is leading a team and has high hopes of winning the competition. Unfortunately, Cherry’s fun at the festival is dampened by conflicts with the team in the booth next door. Some of the arguments with the neighboring team become heated and cause quite a scene. When the other team’s obnoxious leader, Reuben, is found murdered in his booth, Cherry becomes the number one suspect. It’s up to Lulu to prove her friend’s innocence before Cherry ends up behind bars or the real murderer strikes again.

I absolutely loved this book! Rubbed Out is number four in the Memphis BBQ mystery series and is the first I’ve read by this author. Even without the background from the prior books, I immediately connected with the characters. I have to say, the book is so well-written, I took to all the characters, even the suspects. Lulu, the star of the book, is a great main character. She is independent, but nurturing, and is always there for friends and family. I like the interactions between Lulu and her son, Ben, and daughter-in-law, Sara. Ben and Sara are busy running the restaurant while Lulu is at the festival, so they don’t play a large role in the book. I’m assuming prior books gave more depth to Ben and Sara, but I like the little I did see of these characters. Lulu’s twin grand-daughters, Coco and Ella Beth, are adorable. They have a nice mix of intelligence and cuteness and they add to the book with their innocent observations and also by showcasing Lulu’s softer side. Most of all, I adore Lulu’s friend Cherry. Cherry is outgoing and funny and loves being the center of attention, but without becoming grating. Cherry is full of self-confidence and in one instance, Lulu tells Cherry that a new acquaintance isn’t “all that crazy about you.”  Cherry’s delightful reply is, “She doesn’t know what she’s missing.”  We could all use a little of Cherry’s self-confidence!

There is enough action and red herrings to keep the story interesting until the very end. Although Lulu and her friend feel local police officer Pink Rogers needs some help getting to the truth behind Reuben’s murder, they still have a good relationship with him. Lulu’s involvement in the investigation seems plausible. There are times when Lulu takes unnecessary chances which seem foolish, especially for someone well into middle age, but it is fitting with her independence. The wraps up nicely with a satisfying conclusion, but I was sorry to say good-bye to these characters. I don’t know how I’ve missed this series, but I am already looking forward to the next installment. Recipes are included at the end for anyone who wants to try some of the dishes talked about in the story. Rubbed Out is the perfect book for a day at the pool or better yet, while relaxing at home with something simmering on your own grill.

Fans of Lou Jane Temple or Lila Dare will want to give the latest by Riley Adams a try.

Reviewed by Christine