The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham weaves a compelling legal drama set in a vibrant Gulf Coast town. Reviewers praise its rich characterization and vivid depiction of Biloxi's cultural backdrop. Some critique its pacing and predictability. Overall, it's celebrated for its engaging narrative and meticulous detail, appealing especially to Grisham's fans.

Readers who enjoy legal thrillers and complex character-driven narratives, akin to those found in John Grisham's own The Firm and Michael Connelly's The Lincoln Lawyer, will likely appreciate The Boys from Biloxi. This novel's intricate plotting and southern setting also make it appealing to fans of Greg Iles's Natom Bayou.

The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham tells the story of two men, Hugh Malco and Keith Rudy, childhood friends whose lives diverge as one becomes a criminal and the other a district attorney dedicated to eradicating crime. Their fathers, Croatian immigrants, represent opposite sides of the law, propelling their sons into a dramatic and deadly confrontation. The novel addresses topics including violence, sexual violence, sex work, gambling, and capital punishment.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Gritty / Challenging

**Keith Rudy**  
A central character who starts as a childhood friend to Hugh in Biloxi and eventually becomes a lawyer. He rises to power by following in his father's footsteps, assuming his position as district attorney.

**Jesse Rudy**  
Keith's father, initially seen as a principled lawyer and district attorney known for his efforts to clean up corruption in Biloxi. His career trajectory reflects the complex moral landscape of politics and justice.

**Hugh Malco**  
Keith's childhood friend who becomes involved in the criminal underworld of Biloxi. His life mirrors that of his father, Lance, as he takes on a significant role in the family's illicit activities.

**Lance Malco**  
Hugh's father and a main antagonist, deeply entrenched in the criminal enterprises in Biloxi. He runs a violent and illicit business empire and is a key player in local corruption.

**Nevin Noll**  
Lance's loyal henchman who manages the dirty work for the Malco family's criminal activities. He eventually becomes Hugh's right-hand man after Lance faces legal challenges.

**Ginger Redfield**  
A competitor of Lance Malco, involved in the local crime scene. She is a figure in Jesse's legal battle against corruption on the Gulf Coast.

**Sheriff Albert “Fats” Bowman**  
A law enforcement officer who exemplifies corruption, engaging in illegal activities like drug running while maintaining his official position in Biloxi.

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The Boys from Biloxi Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Boys from Biloxi Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Boys”

Part 1, Chapters 1-6

The Boys from Biloxi Part 1, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-13

The Boys from Biloxi Part 1, Chapters 7-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Crusader”

Part 2, Chapters 14-21

The Boys from Biloxi Part 2, Chapters 14-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 22-27

The Boys from Biloxi Part 2, Chapters 22-27 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 28-34

The Boys from Biloxi Part 2, Chapters 28-34 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Prisoners”

Part 3, Chapters 35-42

The Boys from Biloxi Part 3, Chapters 35-42 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 43-50

The Boys from Biloxi Part 3, Chapters 43-50 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Row”

Part 4, Chapters 51-59

The Boys from Biloxi Part 4, Chapters 51-59 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Boys from Biloxi Character Analysis

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Themes

The Boys from Biloxi Themes

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The Boys from Biloxi Symbols & Motifs

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Essay Topics

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The Boys from Biloxi

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