Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Some legends are true.

It is a myth out of history, spawned by Native American lore and the stories of Spanish Explorers. But what if the legends are true? Former Navy SEAL turned treasure hunter Uriah "Bones" Bonebrake sets off on his first solo adventure in this action-packed novella.

When television host Joanna Slater hires bones to help investigate one of Florida's oldest and best-known legends, their crew gets more than they bargained for. Mystery and thrills abound in PRIMITIVE!

*Includes the bonus Dane and Bones short story, AZTLAN.

Praise for David Wood and the Dane and Bones Adventures!

"Dane and Bones.... Together they're unstoppable. Rip roaring action from start to finish. Wit and humor throughout. Just one question - how soon until the next one? Because I can't wait."
Graham Brown, author of Shadows of the Midnight Sun

"What an adventure! A great read that provides lots of action, and thoughtful insight as well, into strange realms that are sometimes best left unexplored."
Paul Kemprecos, author of Cool Blue Tomb and the NUMA Files

“A page-turning yarn blending high action, Biblical speculation, ancient secrets, and nasty creatures. Indiana Jones better watch his back!”–Jeremy Robinson, author of SecondWorld

"With the thoroughly enjoyable way Mr. Wood has mixed speculative history with our modern day pursuit of truth, he has created a story that thrills and makes one think beyond the boundaries of mere fiction and enter the world of 'why not'?" --David Lynn Golemon, Author of Ancients, Event, Legend, and Leviathan

"A twisty tale of adventure and intrigue that never lets up and never lets go!" --Robert Masello, author of Bestiary and Blood and Ice

"Let there be no confusion: David Wood is the next Clive Cussler. Once you start reading, you won't be able to stop until the last mystery plays out in the final line." Edward G. Talbot, author of 2012: The Fifth World

"I like my thrillers with lots of explosions, global locations and a mystery where I learn something new. Wood delivers! Recommended as a fast paced, kick ass read."
J.F. Penn, author of Desecration

73 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2015

127 people are currently reading
129 people want to read

About the author

David Wood

98 books309 followers
David Wood is the USA Today bestselling author of the Dane Maddock Adventures and many other titles and series. He also writes Science Fiction under the pen name Finn Gray and fantasy as David Debord. He is also a book reviewer, podcaster, and a member of International Thriller Writers and The Horror Writers Association. David and his family live in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Visit him online at www.davidwoodweb.com.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
139 (37%)
4 stars
132 (35%)
3 stars
76 (20%)
2 stars
12 (3%)
1 star
10 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for K.D..
Author 12 books170 followers
January 6, 2021
I love speculative fiction, and David Wood is a master at writing them. Primitive by David Wood is no exception. This is a fast read and is full of thrilling scenes. The main character, Bones Bonebrake, is a well fleshed out character- a bit snarky, witty, a tracker, adventuresome rogue, treasure-hunter, and an opportunist all rolled into one. If you are a thrill-seeker, you will love Wood's novella, Primitive.
The book focuses on Florida's Native American folklore. I admit I have never heard of a skunk ape (a primitive human) said to be roaming the swamps. Excellent research. Wonderful book. A five-star rating, and onto the next thrilling Bones adventure!
Profile Image for Montzalee Wittmann.
5,186 reviews2,338 followers
December 3, 2019
Primitive by David Wood and narrated by the fantastic Jeffrey Kafer takes the listener to Florida where Bones and a crew try to locate the mythical Skunkape. Lots of action, twists, and intriguing clues and a wild adventure. Very witty and clever. Narration was excellent with Mr Kafer performing the story!
There is also a wonderful short story added to this audiobook!

147 reviews4 followers
June 3, 2025
Short, fast read reminiscent of Clive Cussler. I tried it for the protagonist’s last name, Bonebrake. My own!
6 in the series. I’ll read one more at least.
Profile Image for Jamey Goodyear.
160 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2015
Primitive is a short story by David Wood that features his Bones Bonebrake character of on an adventure without Dane Maddock. In addition to this short story, there is another called Aztlan that has Bones and Dane climbing a mountain in Utah.

In Primitive, a cryptozoologist invited Bones to help find a cryptid in Florida. Bones appears to be much more serious in this story. It is unclear if it is because of the situation they are in or that Dane isn’t there for allowing him to be as lighthearted as he usually. Most of the characters are portrayed with the common default attitudes of typical of the “redneck” designation. Even so, this is an engaging story that takes little time to read. I quite enjoyed it. Bones is my favorite character of all the ones that David Wood has created.

Aztlan finds Dane and Bones climbing a mountain in Utah and making an amazing discovery. Bones is back to his old humorous self in this short. He also takes something from the discovery they make that causes an unusual reaction in the world around them. This short story over very quickly, it is much shorter than Primitive. I found this story very interesting and enjoyed the typical banter between the two friends.

This book, the two stories, would be great for youth and adults who like treasure hunting, adventure, and strange creatures.
Profile Image for Mahesh.
473 reviews41 followers
October 6, 2025
Primitive is a short, fast-paced thriller that wastes no time plunging readers into the action. With no breaks or fluff, the story barrels forward, introducing Bones—a rugged, witty, and instantly memorable character who anchors the narrative with charisma and grit. David Wood’s lean storytelling delivers pure adrenaline, making this a thrilling and efficient gateway into the Dane Maddock universe. For fans of archaeological mysteries and high-octane adventures, Primitive is a compact but compelling read that leaves you eager for more.
Profile Image for Kathy Jackson.
Author 1 book6 followers
October 2, 2021
This story was decent. It is not about Bigfoot which was a disappointment but I guess humanoids are alright. However, I don't expect to read anymore of this series. I know I'm probably in the minority here but I didn't like Bones.

Bones is hired to take a reporter through the swamps of Florida in search of the elusive "Swamp Ape". They have run-ins with rednecks and rock throwers. They find interesting things along the way.

Profile Image for Vicky Coughlan.
995 reviews3 followers
September 5, 2019
This book is composed of 2 novellas. Primitive with Bones and Aztlan with both Bones and Maddock this one being more a very short story. Both good ones. I may be biased as I love all of David Wood books. But I just loved these 2! It’s nice to be able to finish a book in one go!
Profile Image for Danny Bowling.
20 reviews
October 11, 2020
Really fun, quick read.

Only took me a little while to read, but I had a lot of fun. Interesting take on the Skunk Ape, and one I've never seen before. I really like Bones, and I look forward to reading more of his adventures.
19 reviews
July 14, 2021
Wasn't as good as his other books

It was a very short an uneventful book. His other books are better. It was a fun read and would say read it just not as good as some of his other work
Profile Image for Aviar Savijon.
1,220 reviews19 followers
November 6, 2018
Sometimes the journey and associated investigation is more fun than the destination. A good story full of thrills, rednecks and a journey most will never travel. I loved it! a good read for all.
Profile Image for Mylene.
148 reviews6 followers
October 7, 2020
Ik snap al die uitermate lovende reviews niet. De verhalen waren wel ok, maar dat is dan ook alles.
2,205 reviews
April 24, 2021
Fun, quirky and full of heart.
Profile Image for Bert.
732 reviews30 followers
March 24, 2022
Fun quick stand alone tale. Wonderful take on the 'paranormal/ghost hunter' TV shows.

Narrator has a wonderful voice.
Listened using Chirpbooks.com
Profile Image for Tomasa The Masa.
51 reviews
December 13, 2022
That was fun! I was partly offended by David Wood's description of the ignorant swamp rednecks of Florida but I think I was just offended because it's absolutely positively TRUE.
94 reviews2 followers
June 1, 2023
awesome

Oh very ingenious storyline. Very captivating. Would make a very good movie I think. I’m reading the second book in the series right now. Hope y’all have a good day.
Profile Image for Kelly.
263 reviews11 followers
March 6, 2017
This is a great Bones adventure. It's about time we got to see him strike out on his own. He is the same loveable character we've all grown accustomed to. You just know he is going to get into some sort of trouble - this is Bones after all. I loved the pacing of this book and although it's short, it includes everything you'd expect and then some. I loved the blend of adventure and mystery. David Wood's writing just grabs the readers attention until the very last page.

It also includes the Maddock and Bones short story - Aztlan. This was a fun, short read...well, that was how it started, then I got sad (all I'm going to say is...the text & picture..dammit!). It's hard to believe that a story involving these two characters could be done in a short story, but David Wood proves once again that he has the skill to weave an excellent adventure where these two are concerned, whether it be a short story like this, a novella or a full length novel.

These are great standalone stories and if you're new to David Wood's writing I think this would be an excellent introduction. Nothing that could cause any spoilers.
Profile Image for Jenny Clifford.
559 reviews
November 24, 2025
In this book we join Bones in the swamps in Florida while he searches for something called a skunk ape. It is a little bit weird that I like these books as much as I do, but I think they are a kind of guilty pleasure. Also, they are potato chips books, as in you always want one more. The characters of Maddock and Bones are very, very stereotypical ex navy seals, and somewhat one dimensional. Each book is based on a historical myth, and they are sometimes a little bit repetitive. But the action and adventure is great and very fast paced, and the books are enjoyable.
Profile Image for Paula Howard.
845 reviews11 followers
November 11, 2015
Primitive is a novella/short story centered around just Bones. It was a little strange to have Bones with no Maddock but who doesn't love Bones.

Bones is asked to help find cryptid in Florida. While he isn't much of a believer in the beginning, a cute woman never fails to change Bones mind.

There is a change in Bones in Primitive. He seems more serious instead of the kidding sidekick of Maddock. Nice to see that side of him.

As usually, David Wood is a master at creating a vivid image of the events. Looking forward to more Bonebreak Adventures.
5 reviews
November 15, 2015
I love the Dane and Bones series. David Wood is a unique author in that he writes short stand alone stories about his characters origins and in the case of Primitive what his characters do I
When they are not out saving the world.
In Primitive Bones is on his own helping a beautiful tv host search for cryptid in the swamps of Florida. Along the way he meets some unhelpful rednecks and of course being Bones discovers a ship full of treasure.
This is a great read to keep you entertained while waiting for the next Dane and Bones adventure!
Profile Image for John Mercer.
10 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2016
Best yet!

I've read all the Origins and the Dane Maddock adventure series novellas and have thoroughly enjoyed them all. From Sigma Force to Pendergast to Dane & Bones this genre is great fun and has enough science and historical fact to be thought provoking.
The first Bones only adventure has a more thoughtful and serious Uriah Bonebreak leading the story. The short story Aztlan is a very poignant look back/forward? at a part of Dane and Bones' history. Well done!
Profile Image for Julie Carter.
1,013 reviews11 followers
November 27, 2016
Considering that I was born and raised in Florida, I found the subject of this story very interesting! We have had many discussions concerning this legend in my family, so it was interesting to see the storyline used here. Without giving spoilers, I really enjoyed the treatment it received in this adventure. I never get tired of Bones and Maddock and was very pleased to find a bonus short story included with this audiobook. It was an entertaining short, with a very big "what if"!
279 reviews5 followers
November 11, 2015
Great as usual

Plot and characters are great. I would recognize them anywhere. I appreciated the little short story for dessert. Not many people can write a short story that can grip the emotions as this one does.
Just need to point out that there will be no parties in hell. Neither will there be any buddies. Just stark loneliness. Just hell.
770 reviews
October 31, 2015
My Hero gets his own adventure. He is linked up with a beautiful woman to investigate strange happenings in the florida swamps. In the tradition of bones - he gets in trouble but wins.

I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. I honestly love this book and series
Profile Image for Nigel.
550 reviews5 followers
November 7, 2015
Bones on his own and great short read based in the Florida Swamps looking for an elusive animal with the help of a TV crew. I really enjoyed this and will be looking forward to more solo adventures by Bones.
I received an advance copy of this book for an honest review
Profile Image for Lee Ann.
10 reviews
November 11, 2015

I always love a good adventure and this novella delivers! Take a short trip with Bones to the swamps of Florida to locate the infamous "Skunk Ape". David Wood's creative spin on mysteries and legends always leaves me marveling. Primitive is well worth your time and money!
15 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2015
Teaser

Great story that just makes you want more. I haven't read a bad story yet. I hope to see more soon . Keep them coming.
Profile Image for Uncle  Dave Avis.
433 reviews8 followers
October 1, 2016
A really excellent short book but a well written book. This is an excellent book to start off a new series. The characters are good but they are not all they seem to be. Excellent ending!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.