A breakthrough novel that pits young kingpins against a Mexican drug cartel, Savages is a provocative, sexy, and sharply funny thrill ride through the dark side of the war on drugs and beyond. Part-time environmentalist and philanthropist Ben and his ex-mercenary buddy Chon run a Laguna Beach-based marijuana operation, reaping significant profits from their loyal clientele. In the past when their turf was challenged, Chon took care of eliminating the threat. But now they may have come up against something that they can’t handle–the Mexican Baja Cartel wants in, and sends them the message that a “no” is unacceptable. When they refuse to back down, the cartel escalates its threat, kidnapping Ophelia, the boys’ playmate and confidante. O’s abduction sets off a dizzying array of ingenious negotiations and gripping plot twists that will captivate readers eager to learn the costs of freedom and the price of one amazing high. Following “the best summertime crime novel ever” ( San Francisco Chronicle on The Dawn Patrol ), bestselling author Winslow offers up a smash hit in the making. Savages is an ingenious combination of adrenaline-fueled suspense and true-crime reportage by a master thriller writer at the very top of his game.
Main Characters
- Ben (Ben Leonard): A brilliant botanist and philanthropist who develops a highly potent strain of marijuana. He is an idealist and part-time environmentalist who wants to use his wealth for good, often in third-world countries. He is the more pragmatic of the two male protagonists when dealing with the cartel’s demands.
- Chon (John McAllister Jr.): Ben’s best friend and business partner, a former Navy SEAL who provides the “muscle” for their operation. He is pragmatic, tough, and has a “post-traumatic lack of stress disorder,” a hardened warrior with a soft spot for Ben and O.
- Ophelia (“O” Sage): The beautiful and free-spirited woman whom both Ben and Chon love and share in an unconventional, intimate relationship. She is kidnapped by the Baja Cartel, which acts as the main catalyst for the plot.
Antagonists
- Elena Sanchez Lauter (“La Reina”): The formidable and ruthless leader of the Baja Cartel, a powerful figure with a strategic mind who wants to take over Ben and Chon’s successful business.
- Lado (Miguel Arroyo): A cold and brutal enforcer for the cartel who carries out Elena’s orders without question, including the abduction and torment of O.
- Dennis Cain: A corrupt, double-dealing DEA agent who is involved with the cartel and tries to play all sides for his own profit.
I love Winslow’s writing style and unconventional flow. The chapters are sometimes two sentences. The tongue in cheek is amazing. I love the dry humor tucked in between the drug running and murders. It’s honestly brilliant, as are all of Winslow’s works that I’ve read. Lots of explicit sex and language. Don’t say no one warned you. This book is not for the faint of heart. Despite the roguish nature of the book, it has a light air and is a good palate-cleanser after a heavy read. I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I expected. It doesn’t really end happily ever after, but I think the characters were ultimately content.
Pretty Colors Unabridged 