First I must say that I only somewhat read this book as I was finding it a bit of a struggle to get into. I can see that the story could have been a good one but with so many characters, the writing being boring and disjointed it made for a book that didn't really bring anything to the table for me.

I can't really say much more except I really didn't enjoy it and read books should be a joy.

Thank you NetGalley and Bedford Square Publishers for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

This was a fascinating read. I knew little about the mafia beyond their reputation and this story of their origins from the lemon groves of Sicily was enlightening. I found the writing style easy to read but there was a whole heap of meaning lying underneath. Yes there is violence but it is what lies behind it that leaves a lasting impression particularly the way that the characters justified their actions and their emotional responses to what befalls them. There is a strong sense of loyalty as the title suggests. I loved the way that the characters developed and grew, each unique in their own way, their stories becoming intertwined by circumstance. Gaetano’s dogged pursuit of justice, Dante’s imprisonment, Alfredo and his goats, Lucia, ostracised because of her appearance, Franco and Roberto’s increasing obsession with power - stories of ordinary people who become connected by a sequence of events that leads to a stunning and fitting climax. The tastes, sights and sounds of Sicily shine through. Wonderful story telling.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

Before you start reading make sure to have a notebook and a pen! Writing down who is who and when really helps.
This book has mixed reviews and I can see why. On one hand, the story is interesting, and the historical background is well researched. On the other hand, there are lots and lots of characters involved and some parts of the story feel somehow unbelievable. The writing itself isn´t as good as I was hoping to be, but not too bad either.
Overall it´s OK.