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Cuba Libre  By  cover art

Cuba Libre

By: Elmore Leonard
Narrated by: George Guidall
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Publisher's summary

War in Cuba isn't Ben Tyler's concern. Still, sailing mares and guns into Havana harbor in 1898 - right past the submerged wreckage of the U.S. battleship Maine - may not be the smartest thing the recently prison-sprung horse wrangler ever did. Neither is shooting one of the local Guardia, though the pompous peacock deserved it.

Now Tyler's sitting tight in a vermin-infested Cuban stockade waiting to face a firing squad. But he's not dying until he gets the money he's owed from a two-timing American sugar baron. And there's one smart, pistol-hot lady at the rich man's side who could help Ben get everything he's got rightfully coming...even when the whole damn island's going straight to hell.

©1998 Elmore Leonard, Inc. (P)1998 Recorded Books Inc.

What listeners say about Cuba Libre

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Leonard + Guidall = great listening

Cuba Libre is the prequel to Hot Kid and Up in Ruby's Room. It seems that Mr. Leonard has added more history than usual in this book and it's great. Guidall's narration is perfection.

However, I have to say between this book and the last few I've listened to, I have learned more about torture methods than I ever wanted to know.

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7 people found this helpful

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    4 out of 5 stars
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Classic Elmore.

Characters to love/hate woven masterfully into history. The naration also top notch. Leonard never disappoints.

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Enjoyable Read!

I am usually not a big historical fiction fan but the narrative and characters were brought to life. I enjoyed every page, at times I could not find myself wanting to put this book down. Leonard is a wonderful writer and this audible version really did the book justice.

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Deceptive ease

Elmore Leonard may be the greatest no frills writer ever. He never calls attention to his considerable gifts, which makes the audiobook experience even richer—especially when read by George Guidall, another master. Well worth full price, if you don’t have a subscription.

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rest in power.

the first novel I have read or listen to since the passing of mr. Leonard. Once again the formula plays out perfectly! You will be missed sir

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Fun Listen

What made the experience of listening to Cuba Libre the most enjoyable?

I went to Cuba (legally) a decade + ago. It certainly sounded the same as in this book. No campesinos per se and no people in white peasant garb. Poor none the less. This book is a great prelude to what happened many years before Castro. Having been to the island this was especially fun.

Which scene was your favorite?

when they grabbed the hammock from the train.

Who was the most memorable character of Cuba Libre and why?

Raleigh - the classic capitalist bad guy. Most suitable for a book set in Cuba. Too bad Castro turned out to be far worse.

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