Return of Santitas #CBR 4# Review 15: Savages by Don Winslow
In Savages, Don Winslow tells the story of best friends Ben (“Double major–botany and marketing, and no one asked what was up with that”) and Chon (“…got his GED, joined the Navy, and busted his way into SEAL school”). They are California dudes, best buddies, and very successful drug dealers.
Their lives are completed by O, aka Ophelia, aka “Multiple O”, a sassy poor little rich girl who is in love (and sleeping) with both men.
Unfortunately Ben and Chon’s success draws the attention of a Mexican drug cartel, who attempt a hostile takeover of Ben and Chon’s business. The cartel kidnaps O and mega carnage ensues.
I love discovering a new author. I’d never read any Don Winslow before I picked up Savages–I gave it a whirl after reading a review of the Oliver Stone film adaptation (starring Tim Riggins as Chon! Way to be 33!) Winslow has a really cool and modern writing style (I know that sounds asinine but I can’t think of how else to describe it). I can’t wait to read more of his stuff.
This one is highly recommended but it should be noted that it’s very, very violent. So if torture gives you the icks, this might not be the book for you.
Another one for the list! Cannonball has become the place where I find out about books I would’ve likely skipped over.