The Power of the Dog

by Don Winslow
The Power of the Dog cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £10.99
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Format • £9.49
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Technical
  • ID: 6190
  • Added: 2025-11-05
  • Updated: 2025-11-05
  • ISBN: 9781407098357
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2009-05-27
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

The Power of the Dog is a riveting thriller that explores the front lines of the drug war, featuring a cast of striking characters, including a ruthless drug lord, a determined U.S. operative, and a charismatic priest. The novel is praised for its intense pacing and rich storytelling, making it a standout in the crime genre. Don Winslow's masterpiece not only delivers a page-turning experience but also offers a profound exploration of power, revenge, and the search for redemption in a world filled with violence and corruption. The book's vivid portrayal of the drug war's brutality and its impact on those involved makes it a compelling read for fans of crime fiction.

Reviews
goodreads.com · 2025-11-21
gripping 4.50

The series is highly rated, with readers praising its intense and gripping narrative. It is a must-read for fans of crime thrillers and those interested in the drug trade.

Goodreads reviewers consistently praise 'The Power of the Dog' series for its intense and gripping narrative, making it a must-read for fans of crime thrillers. The series is highly rated, with readers highlighting its unflinching look at the drug trade and its impact on society. The narrative is praised for its complexity and depth, with each book building on the last to create a cohesive and compelling story. The series is a favorite among readers who enjoy thrillers and crime dramas.

Quick quotes

    The Power of the Dog is a 2005 crime/thriller novel by American writer Don Winslow, based on the DEA's involvement with the war on drugs.

    The book was praised for its intense and gripping narrative.

    A must-read for fans of crime thrillers and those interested in the drug trade.

ebay.com · 2025-11-21
exciting 4.50

The writing is addictive and suspenseful, making it difficult to put down. The story is powerful and exciting, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged.

This reviewer found Don Winslow's writing to be incredibly addictive, with a suspenseful and powerful narrative that doesn't let go. The story is exciting and compelling, making it a must-read for those who enjoy thrillers. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to keep readers engaged from start to finish, with a story that is both powerful and suspenseful. The Power of the Dog is praised for its exciting and suspenseful storytelling that doesn't let you put it down.

Quick quotes

    I immediately got addicted to Don Winslow's writing.

    This is powerful exciting and suspenseful story telling that doesn't let you put it down.

    Haven't read anything this good in a long time.

January Magazine · 2025-11-05
stunning 4.20

The book is described as the best crime novel about the drug trade the reviewer has read in years. It leaves the reader stunned but also sickened by its brutality.

The reviewer praised the book as the best crime novel about the Western Hemisphere's drug trade they have read in many years. They were left stunned by the depth of the storytelling and the complexity of the characters. However, they also acknowledged that the book's brutality can be sickening, making it a challenging read. Despite this, they highly recommend it for its powerful impact and unforgettable narrative.

Quick quotes

    The Power of the Dog is the best crime novel about the Western Hemisphere's drug trade I have read in many years.

    It will leave you stunned, but also sickened.

    A powerful impact and unforgettable narrative.

jamreads.com · Morgan Shank · 2023-07-24
intense 4.50

The trilogy is a gripping exploration of the drug trade's dark underbelly, filled with corruption and violent retribution. The narrative is intense and unrelenting, offering a stark look at the human cost of the war on drugs.

Morgan Shank delves into the gritty and unflinching world of Don Winslow's 'Power of the Dog' series, highlighting its raw and powerful portrayal of the drug trade. The trilogy doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of corruption and betrayal, making it a compelling read for those interested in the darker aspects of human nature. Shank praises Winslow's ability to weave a complex narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, with each book building on the last to create a cohesive and intense story.

Quick quotes

    The trilogy is a gripping exploration of the drug trade's dark underbelly, filled with corruption and violent retribution.

    The narrative is intense and unrelenting, offering a stark look at the human cost of the war on drugs.

    Winslow's ability to weave a complex narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

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