What do you think?
Rate this book
Mafia to Mormon: My Conversion Story
"I learned early that if you don’t want to go to school for a career . . . then this was the life. And there were rules. You better not drink, you better not be a big shot and you better always stay low and keep your mouth shut. If you’re going to play the game, you’ve got to play smart. Thus began Mario Facione’s slow descent into the Mafia world. With a desire to please his father, Facione kept the rules taught him - don’t get caught, know your people. . . never let them have control of what you’re doing, and never let anyone fully know what you’re up to. So when two clean-cut young men in dark suits showed up on his doorstep, Facione’s main concern was to figure out the scam they were selling. Instead, he became surprisingly relaxed as these two answered every question he had unsuccessfully asked other clergymen. He learned real truth and began a journey towards knowledge. Yes, there is a reason why we are here on earth; yes, you can re-remember who we are and yes, it’s true, Heavenly Father still speaks through a modern-day prophet. Mario Facione’s story is one man’s extraordinary journey through the darkness into the light. Reading his story will confirm again that the gospel is truly for every child of God who is willing to change . . . even someone who wants to go from Mafia to Mormon."
116 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2004
28 people are currently reading
733 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
April 26, 2008
This was a very interesting book. It's not written very well, until you realize that he was basically illiterate until after was baptized, and reading the Book of Mormon helped him become more literate. It's written just like you would picture him talking though, like a tough mobster. It's a great story and a fast read, you could read it in one Sunday afternoon.
April 23, 2009
Well, I hope by admitting this I'm not destined for damnation, but most of the books at Deseret Book store give me the heebie-jeebies. I find most Mormon fiction about as original and imaginative as dirt and the non-fiction so sappy, contrived, and manipulative that for my sanity and in order to think nice thoughts, I just have to stay away.
But my mom gave my son, Joey, this book a few years ago and he really liked it. So, I gave it a try. While it's not a literary masterpiece it is wonderful. I loved Mario's determination, brutal honesty with himself, and his astounding faith. I also found his tough-guy talk absolutely charming.
Maybe it's because I have a son who will soon be interacting with potential Marios when he leaves for an LDS mission, or maybe it's because I'm part Italian and am infatuated with Mob culture but I found this book to be thought-provoking and behavior-changing.
I read it in one sitting, but I fully expect to feel its impact and remember its teachings (not preachings) for a very long time.
But my mom gave my son, Joey, this book a few years ago and he really liked it. So, I gave it a try. While it's not a literary masterpiece it is wonderful. I loved Mario's determination, brutal honesty with himself, and his astounding faith. I also found his tough-guy talk absolutely charming.
Maybe it's because I have a son who will soon be interacting with potential Marios when he leaves for an LDS mission, or maybe it's because I'm part Italian and am infatuated with Mob culture but I found this book to be thought-provoking and behavior-changing.
I read it in one sitting, but I fully expect to feel its impact and remember its teachings (not preachings) for a very long time.
June 6, 2008
Finding the title of the book a bit sensationalized, I expected this book to be the same. I was pleasently surprised to read a very honest, straightforward account of Mario Facione’s conversion. Living a life of theft, bribery, murder, etc, Mario is an unlikely convert to Christianity of any form. It was interesting to read how he initially never saw a conflict between his new religion and his illegal activities. I applaud his Bishop for telling him it was one or the other, and I am humbled by Facione’s faith and willingness to risk his life for what he knew to be true.
Facione doesn’t mince words when speaking to members of the Church about their level of commitment, which I found a bit refreshing. While Facione’s abrupt approach to disciplinary councils is a bit un-orthodox for the Mormon Church, this books shows that people of all backgrounds and experiences are needed by the Lord to do His work.
I would recommend this to anyone who feels unworthy to go to church, or perceives social discriminations at church. I also think this book is a great example to people who think they can’t overcome a trial. Facione was illiterate until reading the Book of Mormon, and now is a published author, good for him!
Facione doesn’t mince words when speaking to members of the Church about their level of commitment, which I found a bit refreshing. While Facione’s abrupt approach to disciplinary councils is a bit un-orthodox for the Mormon Church, this books shows that people of all backgrounds and experiences are needed by the Lord to do His work.
I would recommend this to anyone who feels unworthy to go to church, or perceives social discriminations at church. I also think this book is a great example to people who think they can’t overcome a trial. Facione was illiterate until reading the Book of Mormon, and now is a published author, good for him!
February 10, 2008
This was an interesting story. I liked the fact that it was so up-front about what happened (although Faccione admits that some things were left out or names were changed) in his past. Although coming from an Italian family myself, I don't think that it would be told any other way. Very fast read as I finised it in about two hours. The hardest part was understanding what he wanted to tell about his spiritual conversion. The story of leaving behind the worldly possesions is compelling and intersting, but not much is told about the change of heart that happened for him. That would have made a facinating story.
November 13, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! He has so much faith in the Church! I highly recommend this book.
June 3, 2022
What a great story! The last chapter is the best. What an amazing person who knows what true devotion is. Great example of what going all in means and being committed to your beliefs.
December 13, 2014
I was intrigued by just the title, and because it is only about 100 pages, I was able to read it quickly. Mario describes his early life being involved with the mafia and several illegal scams he initiated. His life course changes when he meets with two LDS missionaries. He must find a way to separate himself from the life he had built. Anyone who had tried before ended up dead.
His passion for understanding and studying the scriptures is inspiring, as well as his undeviating desire to attend the temple. His no nonsense reasoning, although a bit harsh at times, is refreshing. There is no grey shades in his commitments. I enjoyed reading about his conversion.
His passion for understanding and studying the scriptures is inspiring, as well as his undeviating desire to attend the temple. His no nonsense reasoning, although a bit harsh at times, is refreshing. There is no grey shades in his commitments. I enjoyed reading about his conversion.
February 28, 2008
I thought this was an incredible story. It's told in first person, and the grammer isn't great, and he sometimes repeats himself, but I like how his voice comes through in his story. I think this is a good story for youth -- he'd be a great fireside speaker. It's not deep or introspective or anything like that, but it's a great story. It shows how much the Lord cares about each one of us, and what He will do for you if you're ready to make a commitment. I liked it.
September 17, 2016
This was an easy enjoyable read. It's a true story of how a member of the mob turns his life around and completely leaves his life of scams for his new religion. It wasn't easy, but he does it. My favorite quote was toward the end when he wrote, " ... Living the gospel is work. You got to do it every day with all you have."
April 25, 2022
What an amazing conversion story! Mario Facione truly felt the love of God and changed his life in incredible ways.
November 9, 2010
I enjoyed this book very much. It was awe-inspiring to see how much this man was willing to give up to be a part of the faith that he believed in. I enjoyed the honesty of the book and the matter-of-factness of his tone. I loved that he made no apologies for any of his decisions in his life. It also helped me remember not to take my religion for granted or to get lazy about it.
June 11, 2014
True story written by a man who was in the mafia and has converted to The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It is a great example of how we can change our lives and the consequences of our decisions.
April 27, 2009
I am quite picky about LDS fiction--this is not fiction, but I was still skeptical when my mom sent me this book. I read it in about 2 hours--couldn't put it down. I love this guy's attitude about life and especially his take on how we should be living. It was very inspiring.
October 11, 2007
This book was awesome. I couldn't put it down. It is short. So it was just a great read. It amazes me how committed he was and makes me want to be that much more committed.
November 15, 2007
This was a very quick read. An interesting look into the underworld. Also a great testimony that no matter who or what you are, you can change.
May 1, 2009
I forgot that I read this book a while ago and loved it. It was only a 100 pages or so and had a very powerful conversion story. Jeremy even read it!
August 30, 2012
I enjoyed hearing about Mario's conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and learning of the obstacles he overcame to make this change. Fascinating story!
June 2, 2014
I was very inspired by this short biography. It certainly isn't great literature, but it is the story of a man who must relinquish his new-found faith or face death. I highly recommend it.
February 18, 2024
I laughed. I cried! Told very bluntly. Without literary polish, this book works all the more. I felt as though Mr. Facione was sitting right next to me as he told me of his life's story.
⭐What I Liked
* Facione's testimony (for the most part...). I LOVE that he wasn't afraid to write down exactly what he felt the Spirit saying to him. Or also how he imagined the Spirit would.
* According to other reviews, this is sold at Deseret Book even though it has the word "damn" and the like in it. I like that Facione didn't get explicit every time he quoted himself or someone, but he wasn't afraid to talk about how profanity was part of the culture, or how the abstinence thereof was part of his journey toward redemption. Good job, Deseret Book. Good job, Facione.
* The brutal honesty. He never murdered anyone, but he sure knows who did. I am glad he didn't try to sweep that under the rug.
* I like that it starts with the story of him running away as a teen to find independence and prove himself as capable. It tells us a lot about Mr. Facione's character. It was such a literary opening.
* It's honest, but Facione remains respectful to his family. They weren't abusive or evil. They weren't picture perfect, either. They were trying their best. He acknowledged that his father taught him to run cons, but he also tells of his parents' good sides. I also appreciate that he incorporated stories from his sister, nephew, uncle, etc. It helps us see a broader picture of everyone who was affected.
📝 What Could Be Improved
* I think he could have clarified even further that his family was more culturally Catholic, rather than truly religious. I could tell Facione meant no ill will to the Catholic church, but it might be good to mention that it was more how his family approached it. I, mean, okay. He did do that. I just think some light editing would help so as to leave no room to misunderstand.
* I believe this book could do with more detail. Most importantly, I noticed that he didn't mention Jesus Christ as much as he could have. How did coming to know Christ help his situation? I understand that until this point he had very few scrupulous morals, but any testimony that forgets the Savior--and by extension God to whom He's leading all of us to--is lacking. Perhaps the author found it too hard to get into that, or didn't come to *really* know Christ until later through his conversion. Either way, I would love to know how Facione developed his relationship with Him. ❤️
* I know the author had to change details and names for respect and safety's sake. However, there is a point towards the end when Facione became part of a church Council. A man, who is in tears, is going before the Council for help with something he did, and possibly facing disciplinary action as a result. Facione doesn't say what the man did, or how serious it is.
Why was he too harsh with the man? A bit more insight into that would have helped us understand Facione's psychology better. I want to know what kind of sin the man committed, because it straight up triggered something in Facione. Perhaps because by that point, Facione hadn't completely forgiven himself for his past? I want to know!
* While I wouldn't ask an editor to delete the imperfect grammar or tough-guy style of writing, there were a couple of repetitive sentences. Some light editing might be in order for a second edition.
Overall, I'm grateful for his testimony! I highly recommend this book.
⭐What I Liked
* Facione's testimony (for the most part...). I LOVE that he wasn't afraid to write down exactly what he felt the Spirit saying to him. Or also how he imagined the Spirit would.
* According to other reviews, this is sold at Deseret Book even though it has the word "damn" and the like in it. I like that Facione didn't get explicit every time he quoted himself or someone, but he wasn't afraid to talk about how profanity was part of the culture, or how the abstinence thereof was part of his journey toward redemption. Good job, Deseret Book. Good job, Facione.
* The brutal honesty. He never murdered anyone, but he sure knows who did. I am glad he didn't try to sweep that under the rug.
* I like that it starts with the story of him running away as a teen to find independence and prove himself as capable. It tells us a lot about Mr. Facione's character. It was such a literary opening.
* It's honest, but Facione remains respectful to his family. They weren't abusive or evil. They weren't picture perfect, either. They were trying their best. He acknowledged that his father taught him to run cons, but he also tells of his parents' good sides. I also appreciate that he incorporated stories from his sister, nephew, uncle, etc. It helps us see a broader picture of everyone who was affected.
📝 What Could Be Improved
* I think he could have clarified even further that his family was more culturally Catholic, rather than truly religious. I could tell Facione meant no ill will to the Catholic church, but it might be good to mention that it was more how his family approached it. I, mean, okay. He did do that. I just think some light editing would help so as to leave no room to misunderstand.
* I believe this book could do with more detail. Most importantly, I noticed that he didn't mention Jesus Christ as much as he could have. How did coming to know Christ help his situation? I understand that until this point he had very few scrupulous morals, but any testimony that forgets the Savior--and by extension God to whom He's leading all of us to--is lacking. Perhaps the author found it too hard to get into that, or didn't come to *really* know Christ until later through his conversion. Either way, I would love to know how Facione developed his relationship with Him. ❤️
* I know the author had to change details and names for respect and safety's sake. However, there is a point towards the end when Facione became part of a church Council. A man, who is in tears, is going before the Council for help with something he did, and possibly facing disciplinary action as a result. Facione doesn't say what the man did, or how serious it is.
Why was he too harsh with the man? A bit more insight into that would have helped us understand Facione's psychology better. I want to know what kind of sin the man committed, because it straight up triggered something in Facione. Perhaps because by that point, Facione hadn't completely forgiven himself for his past? I want to know!
* While I wouldn't ask an editor to delete the imperfect grammar or tough-guy style of writing, there were a couple of repetitive sentences. Some light editing might be in order for a second edition.
Overall, I'm grateful for his testimony! I highly recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2018
Total and amazing turnaround
This is a fascinating conversation story. Mario does not try to hide the things he did before completely turning his life around, and they were doozies, though he never killed anyone. His absolute faith is remarkable, as is his sommes to accept uncomfortable assignments which he later realized led to great growth. With a very black and white approach to life, he just lays out the facts and describes a prophetic warning dream and series of non-coincidences which led the missionaries to his house and his acceptance of their message. He was also blessed with church leaders who suspected his background and had the strength and compassion to convince him that he had to completely give up his ties to his old way of life. I am sure he has many more stories which didn't make it into the book. I think he would make a great fireside speaker, especially in big cities where people could more easily believe his story.
This is a fascinating conversation story. Mario does not try to hide the things he did before completely turning his life around, and they were doozies, though he never killed anyone. His absolute faith is remarkable, as is his sommes to accept uncomfortable assignments which he later realized led to great growth. With a very black and white approach to life, he just lays out the facts and describes a prophetic warning dream and series of non-coincidences which led the missionaries to his house and his acceptance of their message. He was also blessed with church leaders who suspected his background and had the strength and compassion to convince him that he had to completely give up his ties to his old way of life. I am sure he has many more stories which didn't make it into the book. I think he would make a great fireside speaker, especially in big cities where people could more easily believe his story.
November 21, 2021
Great conversion story. He paid the price of repentance and made it work. His faith is remarkable. He gave up an illegal life style in order to follow his spiritual promptings. He didn't know what he was feeling at first but in retrospect, he understood that the spirit was guiding his life and his decisions and he accepted them regardless of the consequences. A remarkable history. He pressed forward not knowing beforehand what he would do but trusted in the Lord to help him. I have seen a few other people that have exhibited that kind of faith. I am not one of them. I grew up knowing the gospel and have taken a lot of it for granted. I marvel at those, who as adults, are able to make a complete change in their lives to accept the gospel. Mario is one of those.
June 14, 2021
Wow! What an amazing story!
Mario’s story is fascinating and a beautiful example of God intervening and totally changing the heart of a man in the Italian Mafia back in the heyday. He got out, an absolute miracle in and of itself. I’m so glad I read this story. I loved how his voice totally came through. I first learned about the author in a church video and I HAD to learn more about his story. There were certainly tears and I would call it a faith shaking (in a good way!) story. This would rank as one of my must reads, it’s also a short read but the words are very powerful in it.
Mario’s story is fascinating and a beautiful example of God intervening and totally changing the heart of a man in the Italian Mafia back in the heyday. He got out, an absolute miracle in and of itself. I’m so glad I read this story. I loved how his voice totally came through. I first learned about the author in a church video and I HAD to learn more about his story. There were certainly tears and I would call it a faith shaking (in a good way!) story. This would rank as one of my must reads, it’s also a short read but the words are very powerful in it.
July 12, 2018
What a story. Written in his own words, I felt like I was personally taking to the tough Italian Mafia guy who could barely read. I see reviews that complain about the way it was written, but I think it was perfect. It's an inspirational story of faith in action. I found him very inspirational in his matter-of-fact way. The very last chapter refers to a later-in-life disciplinary council in which he was present as a church leader. He gets the point across at how important doing the basics and following counsel is in keeping us on the strait path.
February 25, 2020
Mario Facione learned that not getting caught was the clue to success in the underground network of dealing with stolen goods. And he became very good at it. But when he met the missionaries of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was challenged to read the Book of Mormon, his life changed. Suddenly a burning desire to be baptized and to enter the Holy Temple motivated him to do a complete turn around and leave the wealth and power for eternal happiness and peace. An inspiring story!
May 17, 2023
I enjoyed reading about his Mafia life, his dream about the temple and forever families, the missionaries finding him, his zeal for learning the gospel, and the confusion that kept him from going on the Washington DC temple trip (although he does go through the SLC temple with one of the missionaries who baptized him). He teaches Sunday School (even though he couldn't read) and learns the gospel together with his class (they help him with his reading). He does eventually meet someone and get married in the temple.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2018
4.5 stars. I love reading stories of conversion to the LDS faith, and Mafia to Mormon is no exception. The book started out a little slow for me, but it really picked up when Mr. Facione started meeting with the missionaries. The last chapter was awesome, where Bro. Facione "tells it
like it is". Informative, inspiring, and a quick read, for both members of the LDS church and those wanting to know more about the faith.
like it is". Informative, inspiring, and a quick read, for both members of the LDS church and those wanting to know more about the faith.
September 2, 2018
A life changed for the better
This true account describes the conversion of mafia member, Mario Facione, to a disciple of Christ as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a man of power and wealth he learns first hand what it means to devote yourself to the Lord. The losses of material things are nothing when compared to the wealth of understanding and a powerful faith he obtains in its place.
This true account describes the conversion of mafia member, Mario Facione, to a disciple of Christ as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a man of power and wealth he learns first hand what it means to devote yourself to the Lord. The losses of material things are nothing when compared to the wealth of understanding and a powerful faith he obtains in its place.
July 12, 2018
This is a fantastic book. Experiences he shared made me feel like I knew him and I could see this tough Italian guy, his no nonsense way of living and his absolute conviction of the Book of Mormon. I love the last chapter which is essentially his testimony of the basics and that we can't take them for granted. Highly recommend
July 7, 2020
A quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed. His was a fascinating story of hearing and accepting the truth, and doing everything in his power to live up to it. Within its 100 pages I went from laughing at the ironies to marveling at his faith and the profound instances of the Lord's hand guiding his life.
March 30, 2023
I had the opportunity to hear Bro. Facione at a fireside for our stake youth. He talks like he writes. He was so humble and honest. It was a wonderful experience. My granddaughter just got her mission call to the Michigan Detroit Mission. That was our mission when we lived there. I had to buy her this book to read before she leaves on her mission. It's a great and powerful conversion story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews