God of Mischief by George Rowe

This is one book that was much more than I had expected.

This is a very frank and candid look at life as an undercover informant in one of the nation’s most notorious motorcycle gangs. Author George Rowe tells it as he remembers it. He doesn’t romanticize his role in the gang’s activities or his part in bringing the gang down in March of 2006.

If you don’t care to read foul language or straight forward talk, then be warned this story contains both. But it is presented in a manner fitting the story.

Rowe was no angel to begin with. He grew up in a hard life becoming a drug dealer and convicted felon. But there was still good in him as he attempted to clean up his act. The major turning point, however, came when members of the Vagos outlaw motorcycle gang brutally beat up a friend of his. Days later that friend went ‘missing’ and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

Rowe wanted revenge and his hometown out from under the gang that terrorized it. For the first time in history a private citizen, Rowe, volunteered to work undercover. He would bring the gang down from the inside. For 3 years Rowe was known as ‘Big George’ walking the walk, talking the talk of the Vagos. He even became involved with an addict named Jenna without telling her who he really was. In fact, as he helped bring the brotherhood down around them, she was pregnant with his child.

Gods of Mischief gives a raw look at the lifestyle Rowe lived. As a reader, the story is a roller coaster ride of emotions. The story flows smoothly leading readers on the highs and lows of the double life. A number of black and white photographs are also included throughout the book. They depict numerous members of the Vagos.

Once all was said and done, some things changed and others remained the same. In the end, it’s sad to know Rowe is the one who really lost the most in his attempt to make life better for others. He remains in the U.S. Witness Security Program as the ones he helped put in jail have vowed to find him.

Gods of Mischief is a gritty memoir. It’s hard hitting with a powerful punch. It’ll give you a new appreciation for the unsung undercover heroes helping to rid our country of drugs, violence and the like.

This is a gripping story that you won’t be able to put down once you turn that first page.

God of Mischief, My Undercover Vendetta to Take Down the Vagos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang by George Rowe, Touchstone Hardcover/Simon & Schuster, @2013, ISBN: 978-1451667349, 336 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 
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