Mule

Mule (2011) by Tony D'Souza. Remarkable, propulsive novel about a man named James Lasseter who, done in by the economy's crash in 2007, becomes a drug mule to keep his head above water financially. He stumbles across a source of excellent weed while living in the mountains of northern California, and then, after driving some of the dope to Florida, chances upon a man there who can "take his weight," i.e. accept and sell his marijuana. From the beginning, Lasseter's course seems pre-ordained. He gets in deeper and deeper, moving more and more weight, until he finally has a crew of mules working for him. Eventually, he descends to murder. This novel has the feel of authenticity about it, as if D'Souza had experienced what he is writing about. It definitely keeps moving, with scarcely a dull moment. I found it to be a most enjoyable read. Grade: A-