Omerta

by Mario Puzo
Omerta cover
Good Books rating 3.5
History, Political, Military, Adventure
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 10678
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-02
  • ISBN: 9780099296805
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Omertà delves into the Sicilian code of silence that has been the backbone of the Mafia's honor for centuries. Born in the Sicilian hills, this code has navigated the Mafia through a century of transformation, but as the century draws to a close, it is becoming an artifact of a bygone era. The book explores the intricate web of loyalty, secrecy, and honor that has defined the Mafia's operations and culture. It provides a historical perspective on how Omertà has evolved and its impact on the Mafia's structure and activities. The narrative offers a glimpse into the changing landscape of organized crime and the challenges it faces in the modern world.

Reviews
The Storygraph · 2026-02-02
excellent 4.00

The story is engaging from the start, and Puzo's writing and storytelling are as strong as ever. It's faster-paced than some of his other works, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

The reviewer found the story to be engaging right from the beginning, praising Puzo's writing and storytelling skills. They noted that the book is faster-paced compared to some of his other works, which they found to be a positive aspect. The reviewer appreciated the way the story unfolded and the characters were developed, making it an enjoyable read overall. They would recommend it to fans of Puzo's other works and those looking for a good mafia story with a faster pace.

Quick quotes

    I enjoyed the story it was engaging almost straight from the start.

    Puzo's writing and storytelling is as strong as ever.

    Its faster paced than The Sicilian.

Night Mode Reading · 2022-07-29
intriguing 3.50

The first half of the book is engaging and feels like a fresh take on the mafia genre, filled with corruption and intrigue. However, the latter part of the book may not live up to the same standards.

The reviewer was particularly impressed with the first half of the book, which they found to be engaging and full of intrigue. They appreciated the fresh take on the mafia genre and the way the story was crafted. However, they felt that the latter part of the book did not maintain the same level of excitement and engagement. Despite this, they still found the book to be a worthwhile read, especially for fans of the mafia genre. They would recommend it to those looking for a good mafia story, but with the caveat that the second half may not be as compelling as the first.

Quick quotes

    The first half, maybe even a little more, was great.

    Felt like a new game on an old mafia board, where corruption and intrigues are the main themes.

    The latter part of the book may not live up to the same standards.

Roars and Echoes · 2015-09-08
good 3.00

The writing is straightforward and easy to read, focusing on telling the story without delving into deeper themes. It's a quick read that doesn't seek to explore complex ideas.

The reviewer appreciates the simplicity and directness of the writing, which makes for an easy and engaging read. They note that the book doesn't aim to delve into deeper themes or complex ideas, but rather focuses on telling a straightforward story. While it may not be as ambitious as some of Puzo's other works, it still provides an enjoyable reading experience. The reviewer finds the book to be a good choice for those looking for a light and entertaining read, but may not satisfy those seeking a more profound exploration of the subject matter.

Quick quotes

    The writing is simple and straight-forward.

    It promotes an easy read and strictly contends to telling the story without seeking depth.

    It does not try to be anything more than what it is.

Appears in Lists