Deadly Bonds: Five Years Inside the Ukrainian Mafia

by Sergey Maidukov

He thought the nightmare was over, but nearly twenty years later, “the most terrible Mafioso in Ukraine” was back.

This book is not just a memoir, but a confession. In 1994, author Sergey Maidukov accepted an “exciting business offer” from Samvel Martirosyan, later renowned as one of the most brutal and indomitable leaders of the Ukrainian Mafia. Maidukov quickly discovered that his job as “president” of a newly created business was actually a front for Mafia activities. Despite regular attempts to extricate himself, he was told that it was too late in no uncertain terms. Thus ensued five adrenaline-fueled years in a long-term apprenticeship with the Mafia underground.

Deadly Five Years Inside the Ukrainian Mafia provides a deep look at the Mafia family that dominated the 20th century post-Soviet state and how it brewed conditions of economic, political and moral catastrophe.

234 pages, Hardcover

Published December 17, 2024

Reviews

[Randal White · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had high hopes for this book. Obviously, Ukraine is forefront in the news currently. I recall, before the current Russian invasion, the news stories about the corruption in the Ukrainian government, and the involvement of the Ukrainian Mafia. The author found himself sucked into the tentacles of the Mafia. Same old story, repeated so many times, a businessman accepts a deal "too good to be true" and then finds themselves owing a never ending debt to the mob. While I feel sorry for the author, honestly he should have known better. I didn't really enjoy the author's story, nor his writing. It seemed plodding, at best.

[Sergey Maidukov · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not just a memoir, but a confession - it’s for real! Excellent work!