“Smith’s debut novel has the badass vibe of a Kentucky-fried ’70s action flick. With a gritty cast of characters, an anti-hero we can root for, and dialogue as sharp as a rooster’s spur, I hope Good-Looking Ugly is just the first in a long series of books by Rob Smith. In case of an emergency, break the glass, pull the lever—and better hope Good-Looking Ugly’s hero Daniel comes running!”

—C.W. Blackwell, author of Hard Mountain Clay

“Good-Looking Ugly goes down as smooth as a chilled Yoo-hoo and satiates better than the tastiest buttered biscuit. This deep-fried story explores themes of family bonds and division and finding one’s true self, told with meditative efficiency and all against the backdrop of a creative heist that could only take place in a Kentucky holler. The straightforward plot combined with gritty, complex characters will hook you on Good-Looking Ugly. Rob Smith delivers a great book filled with thrills, whip-smart dialogue, and above all else, tons of heart.”

—Curtis Ippolito, author of Burying the Newspaper Man

“Noted short story writer Rob D. Smith turns his tough-but-witty sensibilities to the novel in his debut, Good-Looking Ugly. This is a book that grabs you from the first sentence with its authentic, sharp voice and refuses to let go. A remarkable first effort from an immensely talented writer. Don’t sleep on this one.”

—Bobby Mathews, Anthony-nominated author of Magic City Blues

“Rob D. Smith’s raucous debut novel Good-Looking Ugly centers on an unforgettable protagonist in the fiercely loyal and fearsomely violent Daniel, who will stop at nothing to protect his family from the Kentucky Fried Mafia. Finger-lickin’ good!”

—Scott Von Doviak, author of Lowdown Road

“With an unforgettable protagonist at its core, Rob D. Smith’s smartly-crafted Good-Looking Ugly moves with the skill and efficiency of the cockfighting heist at its center. Smith’s expert balance of rural grit, sharp banter, and complex family relationships marks him as one to watch.”

—James D.F. Hannah, Shamus-winning author of Because the Night

“Good Looking-Ugly is a propulsive, insistent story, rich with wildly flawed characters. It follows a man pushed to the edge, fighting to save the only person he’s ever loved, and explores the complexities of family and loyalty with humor and empathy. A compelling debut.”

—Meagan Lucas, author of the Anthony nominated collection, Here in the Dark