Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Peter Savage #5

Guarding Savage Sample: A Peter Savage Novel

Rate this book
Summoned to Brunei, Peter unearths dangerous secrets that threaten the security of the US Navy.

In the East China Sea, Japanese and American warships on scheduled training exercises are attacked without warning and sunk by a hypersonic weapon for which there seems to be no defense. The U.S. Government receives an anonymous message: withdraw all military forces from Southeast Asia or suffer total destruction of the Seventh Fleet.

Meanwhile, a young woman named Jade is viciously attacked in Bend, Oregon. She narrowly escapes harm when Peter steps in to protect her from the would-be kidnappers. But the threat persists when others are sent to complete the job.

When Peter is summoned to Brunei, he unearths dangerous secrets—secrets aimed at neutralizing the threat posed by Peter and Jade while ushering in a new world order.

41 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 24, 2018

142 people are currently reading
62 people want to read

About the author

Dave Edlund

16 books110 followers
Dave Edlund, is the USA TODAY best selling author of the high-octane, award-winning Peter Savage novels. His latest, Judgment at Alcatraz, is available April 27 from your favorite bookseller.

Advance praise for Lethal Savage

“Brimming with reality, intensity, and passion, Dave Edlund turns the ordinary into extraordinary. A rousing tale." ─ Steve Berry, New York Times and #1 International bestselling author of more than 15 novels

"Lethal Savage is a wondrously effective, ticking clock bio-thriller in the best tradition of Doug Preston and James Rollins. Dave Edlund's latest tale to feature his stalwart Peter Savage features the ultimate high-stakes plot to either destroy America or change it forever. Lethal Savage never lets up or lets us down, while making masterful use of both contemporary geopolitics and cutting-edge technology. A tour de force in all respects!" ─ Jon Land, USA TODAY bestselling author of the Murder, She Wrote series and Caitlin Strong series

“Edlund’s lean prose and whip-smart dialogue propel readers through this frighteningly realistic thriller at a breathtaking pace." ─ K. J. Howe, international bestselling author of SKYJACK

"I would follow Peter Savage into any firefight," says James Rollins, New York Times bestseller of The Demon Crown.

A member of the International Thriller Writers, Dave’s action-political thrillers are often compared to the Dirk Pitt novels by Clive Cussler, the Sigma Series novels by James Rollins, the Jack Ryan novels by Tom Clancy, and the international thrillers of Steve Berry.

When Dave isn’t cooking up the latest adventure for Peter Savage, readers can find him working as a leading expert in hydrogen energy. He is an inventor on 90 US Patents and more than 120 foreign patents. He has published in excess of 100 technical articles and presentations and has been an invited author of several technical books on alternative energy. Dave is a graduate of the University of Oregon with a doctoral degree in chemistry.

An avid outdoorsman and shooter, he’s hunted throughout North America for big game ranging from wild boar to moose to bear. Edlund is a long-time resident of Bend, Oregon, where he lives with his wife, son, and four dogs.

Read more about the Peter Savage novels.

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
62 (49%)
4 stars
46 (36%)
3 stars
14 (11%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
1 star
3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Todd Simpson.
833 reviews35 followers
July 23, 2018
Once again Dave Edlund has put together a very clever and entertaining story. I’ve really enjoyed all five books in this series so far, and I’ve found each story is quite different from the next, which I quite like. It’s always a good sign when you sit down to read a book, and suddenly a few hours have past, and this is definitely one of those. I also like the Authors writing style, and that he has come up with such a great character in Peter Savage.

Peter Savage certainly doesn’t have a boring life, as he somehow manages to get himself involved in all sorts of situations. Mind you helping a couple of women from being kidnapped is what any normal bloke would be expected to do. Really, Peter has been lucky that he hasn’t been killed on a number of occasions. The American President isn’t surprised by the latest warning for the US to pull its Forces out of Japan and the surrounding areas. He knows that there are countries around the world that would like to see them disappear back to their side of the world. However, he’s quite surprised when Japan and the US Navy ships come under attack. Now they need to work out rather quickly who is responsible before things escalate into an all-out war. Peter once again finds himself being shot at, and all because he accepted a trip overseas. Overall a wonderfully interesting and entertaining plot, made this a very enjoyable book to read. 5/5 Star Rating.
6,304 reviews81 followers
November 13, 2018
Peter Savage is minding his own business, when some mopes try to kidnap a young lady. Peter picks up a wine bottle, and foils the plot by smashing it on the kidnappers' noggins.

Turns out the intended victim is the niece of the Sultan of Brunei. While Peter goes to England to pick out his Rolls Royce the Sultan gives him as a reward, things are heating up in the South China Sea.

Someone is launching missiles at US ships. Most people think it's China.

The kidnapping plot and the missile plot come together in a quest for vengeance from World War II.

Preposterous, but entertaining.
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,895 reviews137 followers
November 21, 2018
What an incredible story this is. It is a thrilling tale involving political intrigue, kidnapping, the destruction of navy vessels and so much more. Peter Savage inadvertently becomes embroiled in the unfolding events after helping prevent a kidnapping of the niece of the Sultan. This leads on to scenarios where Peter and his pit bull, Diesel, are key players in a thrilling adventure during which they need to help prevent war between China and the USA.

This is a riveting, action packed read with danger around every corner. It isn't something that I'd usually automatically have chosen to read but I couldn't put it down and I'll certainly be looking out for more by this talented author in future. It has great characters and a suspense filled plot with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. There are surprises galore as the chief conspirators and their motives are revealed. Overall, a superb, suspense filled thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. If only politicians could have the same attitude as the President of the USA at the end of this story. I can but dream .....

I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is my honest opinion after choosing to read this fantastic book and finding it difficult to put down.
Profile Image for Robert Williscroft.
Author 48 books83 followers
March 26, 2019
Guarding Savage by Dave Edlund continues the tale of Peter Savage who seems to find himself in desperate situations not of his choosing, and who rises to the occasion to take care of things. I have personally lived a life of action, and so find a close kinship with Peter Savage. I must admit, however, that he kicks ass way better than I ever did.

Guarding Savage commences with the shameful historic event, The Rape of Nanking, of how in 1937 Japanese soldiers rampaged through the Chinese provincial capital of Nanking, raping, killing, and destroying. What Edlund does not say is that a significant percentage of the Nanking victims were Chinese Muslims which lends even more credibility to the subsequent events that play out in Guarding Savage. A reader should not miss reading The Author’s Note at the beginning of the book. It is essential to understanding the story.

Edlund knows his military hardware, from hand-held weapons to the largest ships of war. He understands intelligence and tactical intelligence gathering operations. He understands naval tactics, and how decisions at the highest level – the President – are put into play.

Although Peter Savage is not a military guy, his experience (as told in earlier Savage volumes) renders him an able asset to the opint team that plays a significant role in this story. With his totally loyal pit bull, Diesel, Savage jumps into the action with both feet from the first pages right through to the last page. Edlund develops several converging storylines that culminate with Savage saving the day (and the world) in an entirely believable, realistic finale to an entirely believable, realistic series of events.

This is a highly recommend 5-star read for anyone with a bent toward genuine action who isn’t squeamish about the blood and gore that plays a non-gratuitous role in this tale.
Profile Image for Vicki Burbank.
245 reviews1 follower
May 9, 2019
Not my typical read. Very military including the jargon but I'd still give it a 3.5+. Intriguing plot and I think I'll read another of the series
Profile Image for Gary Stout.
Author 12 books1 follower
July 24, 2018
You don't have to be a fan of Peter Savage to enjoy this latest release from master of action-adventure Dave Edlund; it stands completely on its own. What you do miss by not having the others in the series, besides the reading pleasure, is seeing the character develop as a serious reckoning force. From Crossing Savage to Guarding Savage, the action escalates as do the plots and stories. Sit back, relax, at least for a moment, as you begin reading Guarding Savage, because quickly you'll find yourself perched on the edge of your seat, pulse throbbing, breathing quick and shallow, as you shadow along with Peter Savage infiltrating a clandestine launch site with high-tech weapons aimed at the American Fleet and rescuing a fair maiden pawn in a global power struggle; ground zero has never been a greater threat for the United States.
1,993 reviews51 followers
October 17, 2018
I had trouble getting into this novel as the first few pages were so graphically brutal, but once I got into the plot I did enjoy it. I am not usually drawn to political/war stories but Peter was such an engaging protagonist with his "superpowers" that I found myself eager to finish it. Not only does it have political themes, but personal ones as well when he saves Jade. This was my first Edlund book but now I may have to check out the others as he certainly knows how to write a fast-paced novel!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Profile Image for Craig Pearson.
443 reviews11 followers
August 11, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. This story is similar to a lot of military suspence novels. While taken from today's headines the premise is somewhat implausible. The action is fast and fun to read but the time-line is compressed. The bodyguard of the sutan's neice, Robert, did not seem as professional as he was described in the story. His constant failures endangered those he was responsible for and showed a major weakness in the story.
Profile Image for Teri Case.
Author 7 books84 followers
March 31, 2019
Excellent read!

Holy Cow! This is a fast-paced novel. My eyes were tripping over my fingers, as I swiped the ebook pages. It’s a good thing my hands were occupied, I would have chewed all my fingernails off.

This novel is filled with so many intricate historical, cultural, military, and political details, it’s staggering, but in all the frigging right ways. By the time I finished this novel, I was convinced I was smarter.

And more compassionate.

Because Guarding Savage is so much more than a political, assassination, or military thriller, it’s a thought-provoking novel about how historical atrocities, especially those that are unacknowledged or carried out by the unrepentant, can fuel more atrocities.

Dave Edlund says it best, “Those scars never fully healed – instead, they festered as time passed.” (loc. 4102)

And yet, with his detailed and clever writing, Dave Edlund also creates hope and empowerment with this novel. I don’t want to say more and spoil the ending.

Two things from a craft perspective. First, while this book is part of a series, it stands on its own. I want to read the rest of the series, but it’s not necessary to understand this book. Secondly, I’m in awe of the research done for this novel and how the author kept the plot and story straight for the reader.
1,790 reviews13 followers
April 10, 2019
The initial prologue left you wondering what this related to, but in reading the story it began to make sense.

This story grabbed your interest right from the start with the attempted abduction of Jade. The adventures that Peter had beginning in London and lasting right through the end kept your interest completely. It was interesting to see how Peter and Robert were able to figure out the events following Jade's abduction in London and the pursuit to Jade's homeland. In his pusuit, it was his insight which provided the U.S. Government with a clue to where the missles that destroyed two ships (One Japanese and one American).

The ending was well written and if you want to fllow all of the action, then I recommend that you read this book which and all of the preceding books in the series which I recommend highly.
1 review
October 31, 2018
Guarding Savage is another fantastic book by Dave Edlund. The fast-paced political action thriller follows the character of Peter Savage. While trying to save Jade’s life, Peter and his dog Diesel encounter great adventures and extraordinary challenges. The detail Edlund uses to describe scenes and characters is absolutely amazing - you will not be able to put it down before you finish.


A well-balanced mixture between history, high tech weapons, and non-stop action makes this book a must read! A great addition to the book shelf for all lovers of high tech thrillers.
Profile Image for Janet.
1,543 reviews14 followers
June 3, 2019
Peter Savage is quite the character! I have entered a series at book 5 with Guarding Savage, but it didnt take long for me to catch up. Dave Edlund does a good job of balancing action with story so this book was a quick, exciting read. There's espionage, political intrigue, kidnapping, and that's only the beginning. The character portraits are quite complex, and I really found them engaging. I now feel the need to go back and seek out the previous books. 3.5
I received my copy through NetGalley under no obligation.
Profile Image for Anthony Kizer.
116 reviews1 follower
October 12, 2018
I really enjoyed this book more then the last one. I think the overall plot of this one was really well thought out, and the execution of the story was well done. Not sure where the story will go next, but I am sure will pick up the book and read it.

I got this book from the author for an honest review.
390 reviews3 followers
November 2, 2018
The Challenges Increase

This fifth book of "Savage" continues action, deadly forces, and plots in the western Pacific. Deadly confusing action begins the story and continues to satisfaction at the end.
Profile Image for Nancy Panko.
Author 9 books43 followers
April 29, 2019
Dave Edlund is a wonderful writer of action adventure that keeps me turning the pages. Each of his books is well-researched and shows me another side of a difficult subject, such as Chinese/Japanese relations. I recommend this book.
Profile Image for gerald morson.
302 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2019
Good start

Not a bad start to a series,looking forward to the next book to see where the characters go ,enjoyed it
10 reviews
June 12, 2019
New author for me

Very grateful I found this author. I am looking forward to reading all of his books in the series. Most enjoyable read.
122 reviews1 follower
June 29, 2019
Thoroughly engrossing and thought provoking!

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Guarding Savage and look forward to reading the other 2 Savage books I have in my library
37 reviews
August 23, 2019
Needed a good copy editor. “Discretely” used more than once instead of “discreetly.” Much more embarrassing error with “heal” used instead of “heel”, as in an order to his dog to “Heal!” Yikes.
188 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2020
Great book

Great book it will keep you thinking about it all the time and it will take you to know that it has been the best possible way it will w
203 reviews10 followers
September 14, 2018
A fast paced thriller on the international stage as Peter Savage is unknowingly brought into the fight to stop the United States from going to war with China under false pretenses. He meets Jade after saving her on the quiet streets of Bend, Oregon and accompanies her to England when she is abducted. He works to rescue her and in doing so injects himself into the fight to find the truth of what is going on in the South China Sea. Maybe a tad implausible at times but it does not take anything away from my enjoyment of the story and I look forward to reading more from this author,
Thank you to author Dave Edlund and Light Messages Publishing for the ARC for my honest review
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.