Extremely well written mob tale with the subtle touch of humanity you might expect from the author of the town. Would have been a five save for the fact that it is not really my kind of book, I read the Edgar nominees because they are often good even if not exactly my cup of tea, and this was one of those ( )

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this book to review.

"Gangland" by Chuck Hogan is a riveting and gritty exploration of the criminal underworld that captivates readers from the very first page. Hogan's masterful storytelling and in-depth research into the world of organized crime create a narrative that is both authentic and captivating.

The novel follows a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backgrounds, as they navigate the complex and dangerous landscape of gangs and criminal enterprises. Hogan's character development is superb, allowing readers to become deeply invested in the lives of these individuals, whether they are law enforcement officers trying to bring down the criminal syndicates or members of the gangs themselves.

Hogan's writing style is both vivid and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the settings and situations the characters find themselves in. The action scenes are intense and well-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds. Additionally, Hogan's attention to detail and his ability to depict the intricacies of criminal operations lend an air of authenticity to the narrative.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the moral ambiguity that often accompanies life in the criminal underworld. Hogan delves into the motivations and conflicts that drive individuals to make choices that blur the lines between right and wrong, adding depth and complexity to the storyline. This thematic exploration elevates "Gangland" beyond a mere crime thriller, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.

While "Gangland" excels in many aspects, some readers might find the novel's intricate web of characters and organizations slightly overwhelming. Keeping track of the various alliances and rivalries can be challenging at times, but the payoff is well worth the effort as the storylines converge in a satisfying and explosive climax.

In conclusion, "Gangland" by Chuck Hogan is a gripping and well-crafted novel that offers an immersive and authentic look into the world of organized crime. With its rich character development, evocative writing, and exploration of moral complexity, this book is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone seeking a compelling and immersive narrative. ( )

In the late 1970's, Chicago, The Outfit has a strangle hold on crime in the Windy City. Gangland weaves real crime figures with believable fictitous characters. in a well plotted story. When crime boss Tony Accardo's Christmas gift for his wife is stolen in a jewelry heist he turns to Nicki Passero aka Nicki Pins, to recover the jewelry, which he does. That is not enough for Accardo. He wants the thieves punished. This vendetta sets off a chain of events that will forever change Nicki's life. Gangland is a tense novel that could easily be adapted to the silver screen. ( )