'American Gangster' by Mark Jacobson is also highly regarded. It tells the story of Frank Lucas, a real - life drug lord. The book not only focuses on his criminal activities but also on the social and cultural environment that allowed his rise to power and his subsequent fall.
Another great one is 'Goodfellas' by Nicholas Pileggi. It gives a vivid and true - to - life account of the gangster lifestyle. It shows how these guys operate, their relationships, and the consequences of their actions. It's really engaging.
One of the best fiction gangster books is 'A Rage in Harlem' by Chester Himes. It has a great blend of humor and the dark world of gangsters in Harlem. 'True Grit' by Charles Portis also has elements of the old - west gangster - like outlaws. And 'The Getaway' by Jim Thompson is a tense and exciting read about a criminal couple on the run from the law and their gangster associates.
Well, 'The Godfather' is often at the top of the list. It has been adapted into an iconic movie, but the book itself is a masterpiece. It shows how family and business intertwine in the world of the mafia.
Well, 'Get Carter' by Ted Lewis is a classic in British gangster fiction. It's set in the North of England and gives a raw and unfiltered view of the gangster lifestyle. 'The Firm' by Martina Cole is also very popular. It focuses on a powerful and violent gang, showing the loyalty and betrayal within the group. And then there's 'Gangsta Granny' by David Walliams which, while having a more comical tone compared to the others, still offers a great look into the world of a would - be gangster granny.
If you're new to British gangster fiction, 'Layer Cake' is a good starting point. It's relatively easy to read and has a fast - paced plot that will draw you in right away.
'L.A. Confidential' is a great gangster fiction book. It's set in Los Angeles and weaves together multiple storylines involving corrupt cops, gangsters, and the seedy underbelly of the city. The plot is full of twists and turns, and the characters are well - developed, making it a page - turner for anyone interested in the genre.
Well, 'White Heat' is great gangster fiction. It has a memorable protagonist in Cody Jarrett. Then there's 'The Public Enemy' which was quite revolutionary in showing the darker side of the gangster life. And 'Once Upon a Time in America' is also among the best. It tells a long - spanning story of friendship and crime in the gangster world, exploring themes like loyalty and betrayal over the years.
One of the best is 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. It's a classic that delves deep into the world of the mafia, with complex characters like Vito Corleone. Another great one is 'Goodfellas' by Nicholas Pileggi. It gives a gritty and realistic look at the life of a gangster. And 'American Psycho' by Bret Easton Ellis is also notable, though it's a bit more extreme in its portrayal of a deranged yuppie with a violent, gangster - like side.
One great fiction gangster book is 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. It delves deep into the Corleone crime family, showing the complex relationships, power struggles, and moral dilemmas within the gangster world. Another is 'Scarface' which follows the rise and fall of a ruthless gangster. 'Goodfellas' is also a notable one, as it's based on a true story and gives a vivid account of life in the mafia, from the perspective of those involved in the criminal activities.
One characteristic is the exploration of the criminal underworld. These books often show the inner workings of gangs, drug cartels or organized crime. Another is the use of a gritty urban setting, like the back alleys and slums of big cities. For example, in 'The Godfather', the streets of New York are an important part of the story. Also, themes of power, loyalty and betrayal are common. Characters in these books are constantly jockeying for power and sometimes have to choose between loyalty to their gang and their own self - interest.