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BOULDER COUNTY: Crime, Love, and Cannabis, West of the 100th Meridian
Cannabis farmer Buddy Fisher keeps Colorado’s legalization euphoria at arm’s length. Banned from going legit due to prior felonies, he’s happy living off the radar breeding super-potent hybrids, catering to the underground cannabis culture, and watching the sun set over the land his family has farmed for three generations. But keeping a low profile becomes tricky when skyrocketing demand for his bootleg weed catches the attention of an agribusiness giant who will stop at nothing to cash in on the burgeoning marijuana market.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2019
110 people are currently reading
88 people want to read
About the author
Marc Krulewitch
11 books7 followersFor his sixth novel, author Marc Krulewitch changes the venue to Boulder County, Colorado where he’s lived since 1992. His previous books, Maxwell Street Blues, Windy City Blues, Gold Coast Blues, Doubt in the 2nd Degree, and Something to Call Your Own, all take place in Chicago, where he was born and where his family has lived for generations.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
June 7, 2024
I did enjoy this fun story! An enjoyable read, interesting idea of the big corporation out to get the little man, lightly amusing at times, fast paced at others, with a couple of unexpected moments! A good read!
January 31, 2020
In the beautiful forest hills of Boulder County, Colorado, Buddy cultivates weed on his conservation land. Whilst the growing of weed is not illegal in the state, he is unlicensed and pays no tax… suffice also to say that he grows slightly more than the few plants permitted for personal use. Now, whilst Buddy has never bothered anybody before with his lifelong hobby and livelihood, he is suddenly attracting all sorts of unwanted attention – the wrong kind - from Colorado’s neighbouring states. After generations of hemp use in the family business, Buddy now finds himself on the radar of powerful political officials, greedy regional energy companies and deranged Bible-bashers, keen to throw the book at his operation… and, perhaps, get their hands on his rumoured 70-kilo stash; unsurprisingly, their motives are not without ulterior agenda. We will very quickly come to learn, of course, that corporate monopoly and zealous Christian righteousness are infinitely more dangerous than the “devil weed” they so profess their opposition to.
Very good quality writing, in a book steered predominantly by dry, witty and rallying dialogue. It is very talky, that’s true - perhaps at times overly so - but character interaction is the whole point of this intelligent, sharply-scripted look at American history, and its contrast to modern societal dynamics. Boulder County is so much more than an indictment of corporate America, and it is at its very best when portraying the rise of Buddy’s forefathers and direct ancestors; it is quite fascinating to read of the employment of organic natural resources in the context of European and American history, as the business family’s backstory takes shape. Krulewitch knows his subject very well, and presents it even better, along with well researched and interesting facts about the use of hemp and its impact upon the world, whilst soap-making is affectionately explained as a true craft.
Herein lies the true, profound tone of this book: simply put, the contrast between a world in which all was new and visionary, and our modern world, in which the rich and powerful can simply take their future from the expertise and innovation of others, is brought keenly and astutely into focus. There are agents and guns, etc., but this is not some narco action, or a thriller in any way; nor is it a serious politico-corporate expose - it is simply no more or less than a moral cautionary tale, and a very good one, laced with wicked humour throughout. Krulewitch is a superb author; I enjoyed this book a lot, and I very highly recommend it.
Very good quality writing, in a book steered predominantly by dry, witty and rallying dialogue. It is very talky, that’s true - perhaps at times overly so - but character interaction is the whole point of this intelligent, sharply-scripted look at American history, and its contrast to modern societal dynamics. Boulder County is so much more than an indictment of corporate America, and it is at its very best when portraying the rise of Buddy’s forefathers and direct ancestors; it is quite fascinating to read of the employment of organic natural resources in the context of European and American history, as the business family’s backstory takes shape. Krulewitch knows his subject very well, and presents it even better, along with well researched and interesting facts about the use of hemp and its impact upon the world, whilst soap-making is affectionately explained as a true craft.
Herein lies the true, profound tone of this book: simply put, the contrast between a world in which all was new and visionary, and our modern world, in which the rich and powerful can simply take their future from the expertise and innovation of others, is brought keenly and astutely into focus. There are agents and guns, etc., but this is not some narco action, or a thriller in any way; nor is it a serious politico-corporate expose - it is simply no more or less than a moral cautionary tale, and a very good one, laced with wicked humour throughout. Krulewitch is a superb author; I enjoyed this book a lot, and I very highly recommend it.
October 12, 2020
Humour and resilience from a community facing threats and harassment from corrupt and fanatical federal officials.
Buddy Fisher is a laid back elderly owner of a tract of land in Boulder County, Colorado. His small-time, but lucrative business of growing marijuana is overlooked by the local officials as nationwide legislation of it is imminent, in any event. It is only when larger corporations together with federal authorities and a religiously motivated and fanatical sheriff from a neighbouring area get involved, does Buddy begin to face serious problems with his activities. Although he is an amiable and a laid-back character, apparently not too concerned about the hostile attention that he is receiving, when his friends and family begin to be harassed in an increasingly unpleasant and viscous campaign, followed by assault, destruction of property, and murder, does he realize that he must take urgent measures to address this situation. In a delightfully written novel, which captures the images and the atmosphere of the small town as well as it's characters, it is impossible to predict the twists and turns in a plot which is absorbing and unexpected. Together with well portrayed characters and an almost poignant yet a humorous setting, this a highly entertaining read. I believe that it is ideal for a refreshingly different TV series or even a memorable movie, as well.
Buddy Fisher is a laid back elderly owner of a tract of land in Boulder County, Colorado. His small-time, but lucrative business of growing marijuana is overlooked by the local officials as nationwide legislation of it is imminent, in any event. It is only when larger corporations together with federal authorities and a religiously motivated and fanatical sheriff from a neighbouring area get involved, does Buddy begin to face serious problems with his activities. Although he is an amiable and a laid-back character, apparently not too concerned about the hostile attention that he is receiving, when his friends and family begin to be harassed in an increasingly unpleasant and viscous campaign, followed by assault, destruction of property, and murder, does he realize that he must take urgent measures to address this situation. In a delightfully written novel, which captures the images and the atmosphere of the small town as well as it's characters, it is impossible to predict the twists and turns in a plot which is absorbing and unexpected. Together with well portrayed characters and an almost poignant yet a humorous setting, this a highly entertaining read. I believe that it is ideal for a refreshingly different TV series or even a memorable movie, as well.
June 19, 2021
It didn’t strike me until I was pondering this book, preparing to write the review, that Buddy, the hero and protagonist of the story would typically be the bad guy in many of the books I read. Certainly in a police procedural or detective mystery, he would be. But even though he’s obviously breaking the law, it’s clear that given the totality of the situation, he’s the good guy and it is only due to a few technicalities that what he’s doing is illegal. Meanwhile we’ve got characters who would be the good guys in a stereotypical story (the maybe a touch too religious sheriff from Kansas, for one) who I disliked … maybe even stronger words belong here … from the start and it went downhill from there. This story kept me guessing, both as to whether some characters were going to turn out to be good guys and how the story was going to shake out in the end. The story took me through a ton of emotions, from amusement to being on the edge of my seat to … well, you’ll have to decide how you feel about the ending yourself.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
June 18, 2020
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Boulder County was filled with as many twists and turns as I envision are in the roads of Boulder County. I never really knew what Buddy was thinking, or what would happen next. Mostly, as a Christian woman, I was surprised at the fanaticism of Sheriff Thompson's faith, and the unfortunate circumstances he allowed "God" to put him in. My favorite little story within this story was the one Buddy recalled of his father and his grandfather, and the many hardships they faced first overseas and then in America spanning two wars. Krulewitch did a great job researching and I found myself moved by the history of this little family. Overall I enjoyed the story, but it's VERY heavy in dialogue, with LOTS of characters to keep track of. At first I was turned off by it but soon I started remembering everyone and what was going on. I give it four stars for the rest, and I'm looking forward to checking out other novels by Krulewitch.
October 30, 2020
Boulder County is a captivating contemporary science-fiction book written by the great author Marc Krulewitch that without hesitation will captivate and enthrall the reader in every single page. The characters are impeccably described, easy to follow and well-versed. An example of this is the main character, Buddy Fisher. He is a cannabis farmer working the lands of his family in Colorado. Everything is perfect in his life until his smuggled herb called the attention of a big industry which want to take advantage of that drug business.
Plot wise, it is interesting but I dare to say that there are some nonsense twists making the development of the story slow, but nothing relevant enough to put it down. The storyline is full of mystery, suspense and intrigue that will have you guessing right up till the end.
Its 250 pages are full of details that really caught my attention and I was really excited to finish it as soon as possible.
Without any doubt, I give this book a 5-star recommendation!
Plot wise, it is interesting but I dare to say that there are some nonsense twists making the development of the story slow, but nothing relevant enough to put it down. The storyline is full of mystery, suspense and intrigue that will have you guessing right up till the end.
Its 250 pages are full of details that really caught my attention and I was really excited to finish it as soon as possible.
Without any doubt, I give this book a 5-star recommendation!
November 2, 2020
What struck me the most was the cover of this book because of the cannabis plant. “BOULDER COUNTY: Crime, Love, and Cannabis, West of the 100th Meridian” is a thriller book written by Marc Krulewitch.
The book tells the story of a cannabis farmer named Buddy Fisher who lives outside the radar in Colorado breeding super-potent hybrids and enjoying a peaceful existence but things get complicated when a skyrocketing knows about Buddy’s particular cannabis crop. What is going to happen?
This novel is divided into thirty-six parts. Each chapter is more exciting than the last one, but if I have to choose one I would say that the best one is the last one. The author is serious in his attitude toward the subject.
I am giving this book four out five stars because at first it was a bit slow but I continued reading the story and then I couldn’t stop. It was my partner for five days. Don’t miss this novel!
The book tells the story of a cannabis farmer named Buddy Fisher who lives outside the radar in Colorado breeding super-potent hybrids and enjoying a peaceful existence but things get complicated when a skyrocketing knows about Buddy’s particular cannabis crop. What is going to happen?
This novel is divided into thirty-six parts. Each chapter is more exciting than the last one, but if I have to choose one I would say that the best one is the last one. The author is serious in his attitude toward the subject.
I am giving this book four out five stars because at first it was a bit slow but I continued reading the story and then I couldn’t stop. It was my partner for five days. Don’t miss this novel!
June 12, 2021
Roll a reefer
I'm not sure exactly why, maybe it was the cover or blurb, but I expected there to be a bit of humour in this book. There is a very minor amount of black humour, but it is well hidden. In fact, this book is serious in the way it tackles the interests of large corporations - using local & federal governments, plus under the table payments - to encroach into the lives and income of everyday citizens.
One thing that I found annoying in the book was the regular drifting away from the story, to reminisce about the past generations of the main character's family. It happened enough and took up a lot of reading time, that I sometimes had trouble getting back into the story again. (That caused a loss of a star.)
Regardless, I'd still recommend this book.
I'm not sure exactly why, maybe it was the cover or blurb, but I expected there to be a bit of humour in this book. There is a very minor amount of black humour, but it is well hidden. In fact, this book is serious in the way it tackles the interests of large corporations - using local & federal governments, plus under the table payments - to encroach into the lives and income of everyday citizens.
One thing that I found annoying in the book was the regular drifting away from the story, to reminisce about the past generations of the main character's family. It happened enough and took up a lot of reading time, that I sometimes had trouble getting back into the story again. (That caused a loss of a star.)
Regardless, I'd still recommend this book.
April 13, 2024
Having lived in Boulder for the past twenty years, this was a super fun read (though you don’t need to be a local to appreciate the book). This novel packs a lot in: it is a modern-day western—pitting the Boulder mountain man grower community against their slick “eastern” rivals—the Kansas big-grow corporations. It has painful nostalgia for what is an almost already lost Boulder County, while also being a celebration of the area’s natural beauty and room for individualism. There is a ticking clock situation packed with action, loyalty, and double-crosses. And, the passages of old world family histories and legacies are simply lovely. Summer reading season is fast approaching, and this would be a great addition to the old summer reading list.
September 20, 2020
Don’t go down this road.
I’m done with the book, but still waiting for an ending. Most of the characters were complete stereotypes and Sheriff Thompson was the worst. It is unbelievable that the state of Colorado would simply ignore the criminal activity that occurred especially when another state was implicitly involved. All this chaos going on and no local police or state officials pay any notice of it. Come on!
I’m done with the book, but still waiting for an ending. Most of the characters were complete stereotypes and Sheriff Thompson was the worst. It is unbelievable that the state of Colorado would simply ignore the criminal activity that occurred especially when another state was implicitly involved. All this chaos going on and no local police or state officials pay any notice of it. Come on!
September 12, 2024
Crime, love and cannabis??? Sounded interesting...
Just couldn't get far enough into it to get hooked on anything. I put it down one time and then went back to try again but just got too bogged down again with the politics and conflicts . None of the characters were developed enough to be interesting or compelling to me. I couldn't go on waiting for something to make me want to continue.
Just couldn't get far enough into it to get hooked on anything. I put it down one time and then went back to try again but just got too bogged down again with the politics and conflicts . None of the characters were developed enough to be interesting or compelling to me. I couldn't go on waiting for something to make me want to continue.
August 27, 2021
Great read
If you want to read something that will carry you to a p!ace where people should live with respect for each other and not let greedy interests and morally corrupt businesses take everything from us I would recommend you read this book. I was thoroughly entertained and found the story to be one that resonates with our times.
If you want to read something that will carry you to a p!ace where people should live with respect for each other and not let greedy interests and morally corrupt businesses take everything from us I would recommend you read this book. I was thoroughly entertained and found the story to be one that resonates with our times.
January 24, 2021
The book was of interest because I live in Colorado and worked in Boulder for many years but that was about all it had going for it. The characters seemed stereotypical and the plot rather predictable. I imagine it has been and will be a hit with stoners.
May 10, 2021
Great story !
I loved this story but I'm old and know that our government actually works this way. It is not a government for all. It is a government for the rich by the rich and the peoples rights matter not.
I loved this story but I'm old and know that our government actually works this way. It is not a government for all. It is a government for the rich by the rich and the peoples rights matter not.
December 17, 2021
The writing was fine. I just wasn’t interested in the story.
October 5, 2023
Familiar
This was an ok read with some strong willed characters. It has a pretty familiar theme. Nothing bad to say about it but it wasn't in my favorite list.
This was an ok read with some strong willed characters. It has a pretty familiar theme. Nothing bad to say about it but it wasn't in my favorite list.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews