Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This work, born out of a profound need the author had to let his children know the truth and to articulate his deep love for them, delivers much more than that. Scammed by an unsavory pair of twins, who professed to be his friends, they set "Max" up for what may be his final mission in Cambodia. Confronting death, near starvation, on the verge of committing suicide, the writer, Arthur Torsone, thankfully; lived to share this spellbinding story. After being kidnapped and thrown in a filthy Thai-Cambodian prison; the story begins to unfold. It is not hard to get a sense of where the writer is coming from. This operation rocked his "life and soul to the core." This is a profoundly authentic, beautifully written, account of one man's travels into the underworld of transporting multi-tons of that famous, dearly coveted (by some) herbal plant, from far reaches of the globe into the United States of America. One is immediately drawn into this true, personal account of espionage, romance, danger and intrigue as the Author divulges the candid details his escapades involved. You'll not only read about, but be made to feel the losses, betrayals, frustrations and duplicity such a life proffers. I got the sense that there were two messages the author was delivering throughout the book, that were in direct opposition to each other. A curious polarization appeared to exist between the inner and outer worlds the writer experiences. On the one hand, he is this very charming, likeable character that exudes trustworthiness, dependability, loyalty, integrity and allegiance. His expertise and cleverness is undeniable, as he reveals how he maneuvers throughout this shadowy world, describing perfectly, the many characters involved, that you end up feeling like you know them personally. Clearly he is well liked, even admired by the traders/traitors, politicians, lawyers, judges and soldiers, even prison guards he comes across. On the other hand, one is left wondering why such a talented, obviously intelligent, loving father, so courageous and brave, didn't choose a more legitimate profession. One does not sense it is at all about the large sums of money involved. It is interesting to say the least. He delivers a mesmerizing narrative, that has it all. He honestly explores and courageously shares both the inner lament along side the outer amusement and chaos. You'll marvel at the mayhem, the inevitable consequences, the travel and sailing to exotic places, the Casablanca style romance, that this self described "herb trader" encountered. Upon completion of this book, I wanted to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit. It left this reader wondering if the two polarities were ever reconciled. Perhaps, there will be a sequel, with a happy ending...proving of course, that anything is possible. Highly recommended!
Click Here to see more reviews about:
HERB TRADER
Get 25% OFF
Click here for more information about HERB TRADER
