Savages

A Novel

By: Don Winslow

Narrated by: Michael Kramer

Part-time environmentalist and philanthropist Ben and his ex-mercenary buddy Chon run an independent Laguna Beach–based marijuana operation, reaping significant profits from an established clientele. But they may have come up against something that they can't handle---the Mexican Baja Cartel wants in, and saying no is unacceptable. When they refuse to back down, the cartel kidnaps Ophelia, the boys' playmate and confidante. O's abduction sets off a dizzying array of ingenious negotiations and gripping plot twists that will captivate listeners eager to learn the costs of freedom and the price of an amazing high.©2010 Samburu, Inc. (P)2010 Tantor

Critic reviews

"A spellbinding, tour de force that is utterly impossible to put down. Savages is, bar none, the finest novel I have read in years." (Christopher Reich, author of Rules of Deception)

Action for no reason

I too read great reviews about this book, but it was much more like an episode of crime drama that a novel. The character development wasn't very good. They were shallow, had unbelievable motivations and were frankly unlikeable. When characters are like this, I don't get invested. I don't really care what happens to them. It did learn a lot about marijuana and drug trafficking, which was interesting but the details didn't move the plot along. I did like the authors style and the edge in the dialogue. For entertainment value, I gave it three stars but I won't be running to get more of Winslow's work based on this book.

I'm glad I don't lead this life

Drugs, Southern California, a Mexican drug cartel and 3 friends are the core of this story. It was made into a movie last year directed by Oliver Stone. When I first thought about getting this book I noticed a prequel "The Kings of Cool" had come out after this one but decided to start with the other. This one completes the story. The author, Don Winslow, has a very interesting writing style and kept your interest. I have a feeling a lot of the gruesome stuff in this book happens in real life if you believe the drug cartel stores you hear about in the news. I do know I would hate to get caught up in this lifestyle, your life isn't worth a plug nickel if you do. I will say both books were entertaining.

very entertaining

What made the experience of listening to Savages the most enjoyable?

there was always something happening and the narrator has a great voice

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

yes

Have you listened to any of Michael Kramer’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

no

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

no extreme reaction, but there were some very sexual parts

Absolutely incredible narration of hackneyed plot

Would you listen to Savages again? Why?

I have never listened to an audiobook a second time, but might make an exception in the case of Savages--the narration was just so breath-takingly brilliant!

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Mild surprise.

What does Michael Kramer bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I can't imagine reading the book to myself with the imagination that Kramer obviously possessed.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Not one moment in particular, no.

Not DW’s Best Book but still good

Good story. However this seems to be a very old recording that was somehow transferred over to audible. It seems like the original recording was done for use with CDs so unfortunately there are track numbers repeatedly stated throughout the narration of this book. It gets very annoying.