I’m looking for a book where the protagonist is part of an criminal organization. Mafia, yakuza, gangs and such.
Preferably no conmen as I want there to be a certain element of violence.
They can be a leader or a grunt working their way up the ladder. It can be fiction or fantasy or sci fi. I don’t mind romance aslong as there is certain gang related events happening and the plot isn’t “trying to get out bc the romantic interest doesn’t like the life”
by black-stone-reader
5 Comments
Jade City by Fonda Lee is about an organized crime dynasty trying to adjust to a changing world as the next generation takes over
The Mask of Mirrors by M.A. Carrick – the main character’s a con artist but she has a background in organized crime. The gangs play a major role in the story, but they are more on the periphery. There’s still violence though
The Jhereg series by Stephen Brust. Main character is an assassin and boss of a branch of a crime syndicate.
Jhereg is the first book.
Billy Bathgate by EL Doctorow is excellent and had me at the edge of my seat
The Power of the Dog by Don Winslow is not only propulsive and action packed but takes you through the world of both Mexican cartels and NY Mafia and how they intersect. Loved that book!
The Hunter by Richard Stark. There are actually quite a few books featuring Parker, the MC. Movie and graphic novels have been made as well. Gritty and violent without sailing over the top into wanton gore.
Age of Vice by Deepti Kapoor