Synopses & Reviews
Named a Most Anticipated Book of 2020 by The Every Girl, PureWow, Book Riot, Library Journal and more.
Forever and to the end. That’s what they say instead of I love you.
When Ruby King’s mother is found murdered in their home in Chicago’s South Side, the police dismiss it as another act of violence in a black neighborhood. But for Ruby, it’s a devastating loss that leaves her on her own with her violent father. While she receives many condolences, her best friend, Layla, is the only one who understands how this puts Ruby in jeopardy.
Their closeness is tested when Layla’s father, the pastor of their church, demands that Layla stay away. But what is the price for turning a blind eye? In a relentless quest to save Ruby, Layla uncovers the murky loyalties and dangerous secrets that have bound their families together for generations. Only by facing this legacy of trauma head-on will Ruby be able to break free.
An unforgettable debut novel, Saving Ruby King is a powerful testament that history doesn’t determine the present and the bonds of friendship can forever shape the future.
Review
"The characters, language, and plot come together for a story full of hard truths, insight, and warmth....A multilayered love letter to South Side Chicago’s African American faith-based community." Kirkus Reviews
Review
"West delivers her debut
with an honesty that jumps off the pages and into the laps of her
readers....West writes
with a precision that makes the story sing, with clear language and
poetic imagery."
Booklist
Review
"[An] ambitious, keenly
observant debut....West's tale of grace, redemption, and hope would
translate handily to the screen. This should enjoy wide popularity with
book groups." Publishers Weekly
About the Author
Catherine Adel West graduated with both her BA and MA in journalism from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Her work has been published in Gay Magazine, Black Fox Literary Magazine, Five2One, Better Than Starbucks, and others. Catherine was born and raised in Chicago. Saving Ruby King is her debut novel.