Omertà

More about the book

The third novel in Mario Puzo's Mafia trilogy surpasses the third Godfather film and many others with its colorful characters, snappy dialogue, and a complex, satisfying plot. The story begins with retired Mafioso Don Raymonde Aprile attending his grandson's confirmation in New York, handing out gold coins to the children. The scene is vividly described, from the cathedral's grandeur to the innocent attire of the children. However, the tranquility shatters when the Don is shot, setting off a chain of events that threatens the family's legacy. With Don Aprile incapacitated, his adopted nephew Astorre must take charge. The Don's biological children are largely distanced from the Mafia lifestyle, with one son in the army, another in television, and his daughter Nicole, a sharp lawyer who often debated moral issues with her father. Astorre, an amiable macaroni importer, is secretly prepared to step into the Don's shoes, but he must navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty and vengeance. As the plot unfolds, questions arise about who orchestrated the hit: a conflicted FBI agent, a rival mob boss, or a diplomat with ulterior motives. Puzo's signature lean prose, cynicism, and flawed yet endearing characters shine throughout, making this a fitting conclusion to his career. The novel is a cinematic experience in its own right, capturing the essence of the Mafia world.