American Ruin

Life and Death on the Streets of Detroit - America's Deadliest City

By: Michael Matthews

Narrated by: Richard Spector

When Michael Matthews first visited Detroit, he was grimly fascinated by the place. The sheer scale of the crime and desolation was unlike anything he had seen before. He was hooked, and returned whenever he could. Over dozens of visits, he got to know the people - cops, reporters, and gang members as well as ordinary Detroiters trying to live their lives in peace - and formed deep bonds with them, which led him into places and situations no writer has ever seen before. American Ruin is the story of Michael’s journey into the soul of this broken city - a shocking, violent, and heartbreaking portrayal of a modern tragedy.

Detroit was once the richest city in America, celebrated around the world for its prolific car production and flourishing music scene - the American dream come true. Then came its fall. Detroit became the deadliest place in America, with more murders per capita than any other major city in the country. With drugs and guns rife on the streets, and its administration riddled with corruption, the city was dying, and anyone who could, was getting out.

American Ruin is an explosive portrait of a city trying desperately to get back on its feet and the people prepared to give everything for their home. For fans of The Wire and readers/listeners of Don Winslow, Edward Conlon, David Baldacci, and James Ellroy.

©2019 Michael Matthews (P)2019 Michael Matthews

A truly interesting story.

A very good read. The author does a great job at getting to the heart of what happened in Detroit. This book was very entertaining and informative and even a bit funny. I wish the narrator could pronounce the streets correctly.The tone of the narration was bland as well. I did enjoy hearing how the police treated the local citizens and their dedication to the city.

Awesome Listen

Great book and a great listen. Ive gained huge respect for the DPD and the people of Detroit.

horrible pronunciation.

the dude can't pronounce basic detroit street names. he says greyshit for Gratiot it's grashit. it drove me nuts he does that with all the French pronounced stuff. they should've had a detroiter narrate this.

Incredible listen

I’ve lived in Detroit for 43 years with the exception of 4 years of college and never really knew just how how hard DPD has it. Michael really wrote this so that the reader actually feels like they are there with him. This is a must listen and must read!! Wish we could give more than 5 stars. Awesome job Michael Matthews❤️

great book

great book. it covers both the history of Detroit as well as current events. very educational and eye opening. I learned a lot.