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The Descendant
The story of an Italian immigrant family in the Wild West whose crazy, brave, and magical women overcame impossible odds to become bootleggers, brides—and Mafia bosses.
This based-on-real-events novel tells the story of the family that possibly inspired The Godfather—except this story doesn’t begin with a small robbery in New York. Instead, The Descendant begins with a big, blooming love in the tiny town of Lucca Sicula, Sicily. Told through the lives of the strong Italian women who fought against impossible odds, this historically inspired narrative introduces a whole cast of fascinating characters.
Mariano Barbera was a strong, powerfully built man who saw tiny fourteen-year-old Maria Ragusa at her family’s store and was struck dumb. He had to have her, and she wanted him just as badly. Their life together leads the couple and their children from earthquake-ravaged Sicily to bondage in the mines of Colorado, to cattle ranching in Pueblo, to Mafia life on the mean streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn.
This sweeping family saga centers around the Barberas’ ten children from their three cowboy gangster sons, Peter, Joe, and Austin to their seven wildly different cowgirl daughters. First there’s little Flo—born on the night of the wolves and whose own alpha wolf never left her side—as she navigates life alongside her best pal and younger sister, Clara. Then there’s Flo’s many older Callie, who loved and lost; Angie, who loved and left; gorgeous Laura, who loved the wrong man; grouchy but brilliant Helen, who loved many times; and tough-as-nails wrangler Michelina, who loved a woman more than the husband she was forced to marry.
The Descendant is not just the story of how the mountain Mafia began in the United States. This is the story of a family of scrappy, tough, smart folks who refused to let all the power in the world keep them down.
This based-on-real-events novel tells the story of the family that possibly inspired The Godfather—except this story doesn’t begin with a small robbery in New York. Instead, The Descendant begins with a big, blooming love in the tiny town of Lucca Sicula, Sicily. Told through the lives of the strong Italian women who fought against impossible odds, this historically inspired narrative introduces a whole cast of fascinating characters.
Mariano Barbera was a strong, powerfully built man who saw tiny fourteen-year-old Maria Ragusa at her family’s store and was struck dumb. He had to have her, and she wanted him just as badly. Their life together leads the couple and their children from earthquake-ravaged Sicily to bondage in the mines of Colorado, to cattle ranching in Pueblo, to Mafia life on the mean streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn.
This sweeping family saga centers around the Barberas’ ten children from their three cowboy gangster sons, Peter, Joe, and Austin to their seven wildly different cowgirl daughters. First there’s little Flo—born on the night of the wolves and whose own alpha wolf never left her side—as she navigates life alongside her best pal and younger sister, Clara. Then there’s Flo’s many older Callie, who loved and lost; Angie, who loved and left; gorgeous Laura, who loved the wrong man; grouchy but brilliant Helen, who loved many times; and tough-as-nails wrangler Michelina, who loved a woman more than the husband she was forced to marry.
The Descendant is not just the story of how the mountain Mafia began in the United States. This is the story of a family of scrappy, tough, smart folks who refused to let all the power in the world keep them down.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
18 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Linda Stasi
11 books30 followersLinda Stasi is a popular and well-read author, and columnist/critic for the New York Daily News, who has also been an on-camera co-host with Mark Simone on NY 1 TV’s What a Week for the past ten years.
Linda is also a frequent on-camera guest on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The CBS Early Show, CNN, Good Day New York, Fox News, MSNBC, etc. and has appeared on The View, and countless other talk shows.
Brash, funny and opinionated, the acerbic Stasi has authored six books and won numerous awards including “Best Columnist” by the Newswomen’s Club of NY, “Best Humor Columnist,” and “Woman of the Year: 2006” by the Boys Town of Italy.
Her first novel, novel, “The Sixth Station,” ( Forge Books) was published in early 2013. The completion of which took five years, two mountain climbs in France, a drive alone through three countries with an exorcist priest from the Vatican, a week with monks, two days of interviews with a cloistered nun in the mountains of Manoppello, Italy, and – voila! – one lost relic found and one novel completed.
Book of Judas is her second novel and features beloved protagonist Alessandra Russo.
Linda is also a frequent on-camera guest on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The CBS Early Show, CNN, Good Day New York, Fox News, MSNBC, etc. and has appeared on The View, and countless other talk shows.
Brash, funny and opinionated, the acerbic Stasi has authored six books and won numerous awards including “Best Columnist” by the Newswomen’s Club of NY, “Best Humor Columnist,” and “Woman of the Year: 2006” by the Boys Town of Italy.
Her first novel, novel, “The Sixth Station,” ( Forge Books) was published in early 2013. The completion of which took five years, two mountain climbs in France, a drive alone through three countries with an exorcist priest from the Vatican, a week with monks, two days of interviews with a cloistered nun in the mountains of Manoppello, Italy, and – voila! – one lost relic found and one novel completed.
Book of Judas is her second novel and features beloved protagonist Alessandra Russo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. If you like historical fiction, emotional family sagas, the Wild West, and memorable women, you need to grab this one. This book is based on the author's family history. We read about the Barbera family. An Italian immigrant family, who moves to Colorado and has a cattle ranch. The children in this family are all so different. They were so interesting and unforgettable. Then the mob gets involved. This part definitely adds a good dose of suspense and tension to the story. This was a really engaging and captivating story.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good family saga and the Descendent is no different. An Italian immigrant going to a cattle ranch in Colorado was fascinating to read about and the dynamics among the characters. I enjoyed this author’s writing and how engaged it kept me throughout the story. This is one to put on your list!
February 8, 2026
Holy cow! After growing up in Philadelphia and New York in the 60s and 70s—and after repeatedly watching all three Godfather movies—I thought I knew a lot about the Mob. Turns out, not so much.
Author Linda Stasi takes the reader on a wild ride that begins in Sicily, where a massive earthquake and tsunami kills tens of thousands, and moves through the coal mines of Denver, a cattle ranch in Pueblo, Colorado, and finally to the streets of Brooklyn, New York.
Along the way, we meet the Barbera family—a colorful cast of characters led by the formidable matriarch Maria and her erstwhile husband, Mariano. After enduring unbearable hardships and brutal ethnic discrimination at the hands of unscrupulous coal mine owners, the family’s fortunes begin to turn when they become involved in the production and sale of moonshine liquor. The story gains momentum as the Barberas compete with other Italian immigrant families in the violent Sugar Moon War.
The author’s casual, engaging narrative style made me feel as though she was telling me this story over a couple of beers at the local saloon. I learned a great deal about the origins of the mountain Mafia, but even more, I came to admire the sheer grit and determination of a family that refused to fail.
I received an advance copy for free and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Author Linda Stasi takes the reader on a wild ride that begins in Sicily, where a massive earthquake and tsunami kills tens of thousands, and moves through the coal mines of Denver, a cattle ranch in Pueblo, Colorado, and finally to the streets of Brooklyn, New York.
Along the way, we meet the Barbera family—a colorful cast of characters led by the formidable matriarch Maria and her erstwhile husband, Mariano. After enduring unbearable hardships and brutal ethnic discrimination at the hands of unscrupulous coal mine owners, the family’s fortunes begin to turn when they become involved in the production and sale of moonshine liquor. The story gains momentum as the Barberas compete with other Italian immigrant families in the violent Sugar Moon War.
The author’s casual, engaging narrative style made me feel as though she was telling me this story over a couple of beers at the local saloon. I learned a great deal about the origins of the mountain Mafia, but even more, I came to admire the sheer grit and determination of a family that refused to fail.
I received an advance copy for free and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Captivating, Intriguing, Informative and Revealing are just a few of the words I have for this story. This historical novel is based on the lives and events of the author's family. I loved that it's written in such an easy going style that it's as if the author was telling me her story over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. I looked forward to picking it back up after life's responsibilities made me put it down. The relatively short chapters made it easy to find a place to stop while also making it a fairly quick read. I envy the author for her ancestors ability to pass along their immigrant story and for her ability to make it so cohesive and woven into the fabric of the United States' history.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and I'll add another word to my list, it is simply Wonderful.
Thank you to the author, Regalo Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and I'll add another word to my list, it is simply Wonderful.
Thank you to the author, Regalo Press and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mariano was promised much in the new land, so once he gets to New York, then sent west and finds out what his signing his name away really meant, he knows this is worse than if they would have stayed in Sicily. With his wife and children already on the way, they can do nothing but do what they do best and that is make a life out of what they now have. When Maria arrives, with the kids in tow she can hardly believe that Mariano has once again let the family down. She knows that in order for them to survive it will be up to her. Life out west isn't easy and it takes everything they can to get out from under the company that Mariano sold them too. Knowing what they know best, they go back to liquor, the one thing that men cannot resists and the government no matter how hard they try to abolish it, it is always a want and there will always be men looking to pay for it. They are not the only ones bootlegging and soon there is a rival that is taking the lives of fathers and sons and it seems everyone is only out for revenge and profits. Maria knows she cannot rely on her husband and does what she does best, she takes the reins of the business when he disappears after a terrible flood. When things are finally running smoothly and they are living their best lives, Mariano once again does what he does best and it's all taken from them. Told to head back to New York, Maria and the family have no other choice but to go back east or risk death. Uprooting yet again, Maria heads back to New York where Mariano was supposed to find a home and work. But he hasn't changed his ways and they can no longer take it. Things come to a head when Maria gets sick and Mariano's true colors once again reveal themselves to his youngest children. What has this godforsaken promised and done besides bring nothing but hardship, death and heartache to the Barbera family? Based on a true family and the start of the mafia, this novel is quite fascinating with historical facts and all that this family endured after coming to America. This novel spanned decades of the Barbera family and yet they never gave up and always endured with what they had. Thank you to the author for the complementary ebook and for writing this novel about your family and sharing it with the world. Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
The Descendant is a bold, sprawling family saga that reimagines the roots of American organized crime through the eyes of the women history too often leaves behind. Inspired by real events and rumored connections to The Godfather, this novel trades the familiar streets of New York for a far richer, more unexpected origin story—one that begins with love, survival, and fierce ambition in rural Sicily.
The novel follows the Barbera family as they journey from the small town of Lucca Sicula to the brutal realities of immigrant life in America, moving through mining camps, cattle ranches, and eventually the criminal underworld. At its core is the passionate union of Mariano Barbera and Maria Ragusa, whose relationship sets the tone for a story driven by loyalty, desire, and defiance.
What truly sets The Descendant apart is its focus on the Barbera daughters. While the sons step into the world of gangsters and power, it is the women—wild, stubborn, brilliant, and deeply human—who command the narrative. Each daughter is vividly drawn, with her own loves, losses, and rebellions, creating a chorus of voices that feel both intimate and mythic. Their stories challenge traditional Mafia narratives, replacing silent wives and background figures with leaders, survivors, and rule-breakers.
The prose balances historical grit with touches of magical realism, lending the novel a folkloric quality without losing its emotional weight. The result is a story that feels epic yet personal, brutal yet tender.
Ultimately, The Descendant is less about crime than it is about legacy—how families endure, how women shape history from the margins, and how love and ambition can survive even the harshest odds. It’s a powerful, unforgettable read that expands the Mafia saga into something richer, more inclusive, and far more compelling.
The novel follows the Barbera family as they journey from the small town of Lucca Sicula to the brutal realities of immigrant life in America, moving through mining camps, cattle ranches, and eventually the criminal underworld. At its core is the passionate union of Mariano Barbera and Maria Ragusa, whose relationship sets the tone for a story driven by loyalty, desire, and defiance.
What truly sets The Descendant apart is its focus on the Barbera daughters. While the sons step into the world of gangsters and power, it is the women—wild, stubborn, brilliant, and deeply human—who command the narrative. Each daughter is vividly drawn, with her own loves, losses, and rebellions, creating a chorus of voices that feel both intimate and mythic. Their stories challenge traditional Mafia narratives, replacing silent wives and background figures with leaders, survivors, and rule-breakers.
The prose balances historical grit with touches of magical realism, lending the novel a folkloric quality without losing its emotional weight. The result is a story that feels epic yet personal, brutal yet tender.
Ultimately, The Descendant is less about crime than it is about legacy—how families endure, how women shape history from the margins, and how love and ambition can survive even the harshest odds. It’s a powerful, unforgettable read that expands the Mafia saga into something richer, more inclusive, and far more compelling.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
📚 love history based books
🏜️ enjoy plots featuring the Wild West
👯♀️ want to read about strong sisters
🌎 wish you could travel the world
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Mariano Barbera was a strong, powerfully built man who saw tiny fourteen-year-old Maria Ragusa at her family’s store and was struck dumb. He had to have her, and she wanted him just as badly. Their life together leads the couple and their children from earthquake-ravaged Sicily to bondage in the mines of Colorado, to cattle ranching in Pueblo, to Mafia life on the mean streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn.
This sweeping family saga centers around the Barberas’ ten children from their three cowboy bootlegging sons, Peter, Joe, and Austin to their seven wildly different cowgirl daughters. First there’s little Flo—born on the night of the wolves and whose own alpha wolf never left her side—as she navigates life alongside her best pal and younger sister, Clara. Then there’s Flo’s many older sisters: Carrie, who loved and lost; Angie, who loved and left; gorgeous Laura, who loved the wrong man; grouchy but brilliant Helen, who loved many times; and tough-as-nails wrangler Mary, who loved a woman more than the husband she was forced to marry.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
What a fascinating historical fiction novel! I’ll admit that I’ve never heard of this family before, but I always enjoy learning about stuff like this! What an incredible family to say the least. I enjoyed watching them start in Italy, move to Colorado and then out to Brooklyn. The novel mainly revolves around the seven sisters, and they are a force to be reckoned with! They were all so uniquely written, even though they are raised by the same family. This book was filled with an unending amount of drama, but those are my favorite types of books! If you enjoy fiction about real historical figures, I highly recommend checking this one out!
📚 love history based books
🏜️ enjoy plots featuring the Wild West
👯♀️ want to read about strong sisters
🌎 wish you could travel the world
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
Mariano Barbera was a strong, powerfully built man who saw tiny fourteen-year-old Maria Ragusa at her family’s store and was struck dumb. He had to have her, and she wanted him just as badly. Their life together leads the couple and their children from earthquake-ravaged Sicily to bondage in the mines of Colorado, to cattle ranching in Pueblo, to Mafia life on the mean streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn.
This sweeping family saga centers around the Barberas’ ten children from their three cowboy bootlegging sons, Peter, Joe, and Austin to their seven wildly different cowgirl daughters. First there’s little Flo—born on the night of the wolves and whose own alpha wolf never left her side—as she navigates life alongside her best pal and younger sister, Clara. Then there’s Flo’s many older sisters: Carrie, who loved and lost; Angie, who loved and left; gorgeous Laura, who loved the wrong man; grouchy but brilliant Helen, who loved many times; and tough-as-nails wrangler Mary, who loved a woman more than the husband she was forced to marry.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
What a fascinating historical fiction novel! I’ll admit that I’ve never heard of this family before, but I always enjoy learning about stuff like this! What an incredible family to say the least. I enjoyed watching them start in Italy, move to Colorado and then out to Brooklyn. The novel mainly revolves around the seven sisters, and they are a force to be reckoned with! They were all so uniquely written, even though they are raised by the same family. This book was filled with an unending amount of drama, but those are my favorite types of books! If you enjoy fiction about real historical figures, I highly recommend checking this one out!
March 19, 2026
Linda Stasi’s THE DESCENDANT is a sweeping historical novel that blends frontier grit with Mafia intrigue, telling the story of a Sicilian immigrant family determined to survive against impossible odds. Beginning in the small town of Lucca Sicula, Sicily, the novel follows Mariano Barbera and Maria Ragusa, whose passionate love sets the stage for a multigenerational saga that stretches from earthquake-ravaged Italy to the rugged American West and eventually the streets of Brooklyn.
What makes this story stand out is its focus on the fiercely resilient women of the Barbera family. While the men become cowboys, bootleggers, and gangsters, the women, each with their own strengths, struggles, and personalities, emerge as the emotional and narrative core of the novel. Their stories of love, heartbreak, loyalty, and survival give the book its powerful momentum.
Stasi brings the era vividly to life, weaving together immigration history, frontier life, and the early roots of organized crime in America. The characters feel bold and memorable, and the novel moves quickly as their lives unfold across decades of hardship, ambition, and family loyalty.
At its heart, THE DESCENDANT is more than a story about crime or survival, it’s a tribute to the strength of immigrant families and the generations who fought to build new lives in an unforgiving world. With its rich historical backdrop and unforgettable characters, this novel is both gripping and deeply moving.
What makes this story stand out is its focus on the fiercely resilient women of the Barbera family. While the men become cowboys, bootleggers, and gangsters, the women, each with their own strengths, struggles, and personalities, emerge as the emotional and narrative core of the novel. Their stories of love, heartbreak, loyalty, and survival give the book its powerful momentum.
Stasi brings the era vividly to life, weaving together immigration history, frontier life, and the early roots of organized crime in America. The characters feel bold and memorable, and the novel moves quickly as their lives unfold across decades of hardship, ambition, and family loyalty.
At its heart, THE DESCENDANT is more than a story about crime or survival, it’s a tribute to the strength of immigrant families and the generations who fought to build new lives in an unforgiving world. With its rich historical backdrop and unforgettable characters, this novel is both gripping and deeply moving.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thanks to Books Forward, Post Hill Press, Regalo Press and the author for the gifted copy. All opinions below are my own.
The Italian American immigrant story has been told many times before, most of us know of the East Coast Italians who found refuge in New York or New Jersey like my ancestors or Chicago Italians who went a little further west. But I've never heard a story of Italians finding their American dream in the Wild West. This is a story of the Barbera family who moved from Sicily to Colorado following a period of earthquakes and drought. First the father came and realized quite quickly the American dream was a lie as he was indentured into the mines. His wife and children followed, realizing as well their hopes were unfounded and life here was perhaps worse than at home where at least they weren't treated as second class citizens. But this family finds a way to thrive time and time again as they are hit with trouble after trouble. The secret to their strength are the women, each unique and strong-willed.
This is definitely a heavy tale showing the harder aspects of immigration. Lots of scenes were hard to read as they deal with domestic abuse, negligent parents and even Mafia violence. That said, it is the story of survival and resilience. That is the true American story. I also liked the epilogue which told us where the descendants ended up.
The Italian American immigrant story has been told many times before, most of us know of the East Coast Italians who found refuge in New York or New Jersey like my ancestors or Chicago Italians who went a little further west. But I've never heard a story of Italians finding their American dream in the Wild West. This is a story of the Barbera family who moved from Sicily to Colorado following a period of earthquakes and drought. First the father came and realized quite quickly the American dream was a lie as he was indentured into the mines. His wife and children followed, realizing as well their hopes were unfounded and life here was perhaps worse than at home where at least they weren't treated as second class citizens. But this family finds a way to thrive time and time again as they are hit with trouble after trouble. The secret to their strength are the women, each unique and strong-willed.
This is definitely a heavy tale showing the harder aspects of immigration. Lots of scenes were hard to read as they deal with domestic abuse, negligent parents and even Mafia violence. That said, it is the story of survival and resilience. That is the true American story. I also liked the epilogue which told us where the descendants ended up.
Review of advance copy
The Descendant by Linda Stasi. Thanks to @booksforwardpr for the gifted copy and Pr package ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Based on real events, we follow the Barbera family, as they immigrate from Sicily to Colorado thinking they’ll farm but becoming indentured to the mines. This family saga follows their ten children , including bootlegging sons and cowgirl daughters.
This was an amazing package that was sent and an even more amazing read. This is definitely my favorite I’ve read so far in 2026! It is quite the epic family saga, and so much more special knowing that it’s the author’s history. I learned so much from it. A lot of the story highlights events that we don’t typically learn in school. Remember that saying, “history is written by the victors”? It’s true but we still have ancestors of victims that lived through such events, can attest to them, and later write historical fictions that will shock you. The characters in this one are so well developed and rich. There’s a lot to it and I hope that you’ll read it as well.
“The West was never as wild as it became after Colorado went dry. Kansas, North Dakota, and Iowa had been dry since the 1880’s, but they weren’t full of indentured Italians who knew how to brew and how to stew.”
Read if you like:
-Immigration stories
-Sicilian-American history
-Bootlegging or mafia tales
-Family sagas
The Descendant comes out 3/10.
Based on real events, we follow the Barbera family, as they immigrate from Sicily to Colorado thinking they’ll farm but becoming indentured to the mines. This family saga follows their ten children , including bootlegging sons and cowgirl daughters.
This was an amazing package that was sent and an even more amazing read. This is definitely my favorite I’ve read so far in 2026! It is quite the epic family saga, and so much more special knowing that it’s the author’s history. I learned so much from it. A lot of the story highlights events that we don’t typically learn in school. Remember that saying, “history is written by the victors”? It’s true but we still have ancestors of victims that lived through such events, can attest to them, and later write historical fictions that will shock you. The characters in this one are so well developed and rich. There’s a lot to it and I hope that you’ll read it as well.
“The West was never as wild as it became after Colorado went dry. Kansas, North Dakota, and Iowa had been dry since the 1880’s, but they weren’t full of indentured Italians who knew how to brew and how to stew.”
Read if you like:
-Immigration stories
-Sicilian-American history
-Bootlegging or mafia tales
-Family sagas
The Descendant comes out 3/10.
March 11, 2026
Imagine Cosa Nostra colliding with the Wild West. Award-winning author Linda Stasi just made it happen.
Her stunning new novel The Descendant, steeped in her own heritage, is a genre-defying, riveting exploration of free will and resilience — tracing the journey of an immigrant Sicilian family from lineage to legacy. Bold, unforgettable characters weave their destinies through a tantalizing narrative that twists and turns with the unpredictability of the Western Mafia's rise.
An insalata mista of frontier grit and mob intrigue, savored with deep psychological suspense, Stasi brilliantly blurs the boundaries between reality and fiction. This is a masterclass — extensively researched, fiercely authentic, and serendipitously infused with a touch of magic.
The Descendant moved me deeply on so many levels. It nudged me to look inward, to inquire further into my own maternal heritage — and that is the mark of a truly powerful book. In a time of global uncertainty and turmoil, this novel is a fierce reminder of the core human values — loyalty, integrity, inclusivity — that will carry us through the rapids and reclaim our sovereignty as a collectively awakened and caring human family.
A must-read. A must-follow. A must-have.
Linda Stasi, you have outdone yourself — again.
Dr Antonia Ka
Her stunning new novel The Descendant, steeped in her own heritage, is a genre-defying, riveting exploration of free will and resilience — tracing the journey of an immigrant Sicilian family from lineage to legacy. Bold, unforgettable characters weave their destinies through a tantalizing narrative that twists and turns with the unpredictability of the Western Mafia's rise.
An insalata mista of frontier grit and mob intrigue, savored with deep psychological suspense, Stasi brilliantly blurs the boundaries between reality and fiction. This is a masterclass — extensively researched, fiercely authentic, and serendipitously infused with a touch of magic.
The Descendant moved me deeply on so many levels. It nudged me to look inward, to inquire further into my own maternal heritage — and that is the mark of a truly powerful book. In a time of global uncertainty and turmoil, this novel is a fierce reminder of the core human values — loyalty, integrity, inclusivity — that will carry us through the rapids and reclaim our sovereignty as a collectively awakened and caring human family.
A must-read. A must-follow. A must-have.
Linda Stasi, you have outdone yourself — again.
Dr Antonia Ka
Review of advance copy
The opening chapter felt like a fantasy book opening, yet it’s a story of an Italian family - whose real-life adventures may have inspired 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘎𝘰𝘥𝘧𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳.
This is a big, bold story that sweeps from a small town in Sicily to the mining camps and cattle ranches of Colorado. It even plunges into the criminal underworld of Brooklyn.
This is truly a multigenerational epic as we follow the Barbera family, Italian immigrants, from their beginnings in Italy through their remarkable feats of survival amid discrimination and hardship.
Once this large family, 3 sons and 7 daughters, is settled working on the cattle ranch in Colorado, the book takes on a Wild West feel. I loved the daughters, and their very unique, but strong personalities that shone through.
The boys get involved in bootlegging, which turns dangerous fast when rival gangs are looking for money and blood. This uproots the family as they head to Brooklyn. All this adds anticipation, tension, and more drama to an already suspenseful read.
I was amazed to learn that this vivid and adventurous historical story was based on the author's family history! What tales they must share and recall at family gatherings and holidays.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @linda.stasi for this gifted eBook.
This is a big, bold story that sweeps from a small town in Sicily to the mining camps and cattle ranches of Colorado. It even plunges into the criminal underworld of Brooklyn.
This is truly a multigenerational epic as we follow the Barbera family, Italian immigrants, from their beginnings in Italy through their remarkable feats of survival amid discrimination and hardship.
Once this large family, 3 sons and 7 daughters, is settled working on the cattle ranch in Colorado, the book takes on a Wild West feel. I loved the daughters, and their very unique, but strong personalities that shone through.
The boys get involved in bootlegging, which turns dangerous fast when rival gangs are looking for money and blood. This uproots the family as they head to Brooklyn. All this adds anticipation, tension, and more drama to an already suspenseful read.
I was amazed to learn that this vivid and adventurous historical story was based on the author's family history! What tales they must share and recall at family gatherings and holidays.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @linda.stasi for this gifted eBook.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy
If you love big family sagas, fierce women, and a little Wild West chaos, The Descendant by Linda Stasi is such a fun and unforgettable read.
This story begins in Sicily with a bold love story between Mariano Barbera and Maria Ragusa and grows into a sweeping journey across
generations. From earthquake shaken villages to the mines of Colorado, cattle ranches in Pueblo, and eventually the rough streets of Brooklyn, the Barbera family story is full of adventure, hardship, and resilience.
What really makes this novel shine are the Barbera daughters. They are fierce, stubborn, loyal, and unforgettable. Each woman faces her own battles and refuses to let the world decide her fate. Their stories are filled with love, courage, heartbreak, and determination.
The storytelling is vibrant, like hearing an unforgettable family legend passed down through generations. It is emotional, dramatic, and full of life.
A sweeping historical saga about family, survival, and the unstoppable strength of women.
If you love big family sagas, fierce women, and a little Wild West chaos, The Descendant by Linda Stasi is such a fun and unforgettable read.
This story begins in Sicily with a bold love story between Mariano Barbera and Maria Ragusa and grows into a sweeping journey across
generations. From earthquake shaken villages to the mines of Colorado, cattle ranches in Pueblo, and eventually the rough streets of Brooklyn, the Barbera family story is full of adventure, hardship, and resilience.
What really makes this novel shine are the Barbera daughters. They are fierce, stubborn, loyal, and unforgettable. Each woman faces her own battles and refuses to let the world decide her fate. Their stories are filled with love, courage, heartbreak, and determination.
The storytelling is vibrant, like hearing an unforgettable family legend passed down through generations. It is emotional, dramatic, and full of life.
A sweeping historical saga about family, survival, and the unstoppable strength of women.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Descendant by Linda Stasi is a thought provoking and compelling book that I really enjoyed reading.
This is a well written story involving Italian Immigrants. The author uses her own culture and some poetic license to tell an incredible story.
Italian Immigrants in Sicily are compelled to go to Colorado with the great promise of land and money.
Mariano Barbera and his wife Maria are at the center of the story and work on a cattle ranch.
Maria has several children many with issues. The Barbera's make illegal alcohol, and this is a saving grace financially until the Mob gets involved.
They are forced to move to NYC and this makes things worse.
I really enjoyed the characters and the story. This was a thought compelling story filled with drama and heartache.
Highly recommend!
This is a well written story involving Italian Immigrants. The author uses her own culture and some poetic license to tell an incredible story.
Italian Immigrants in Sicily are compelled to go to Colorado with the great promise of land and money.
Mariano Barbera and his wife Maria are at the center of the story and work on a cattle ranch.
Maria has several children many with issues. The Barbera's make illegal alcohol, and this is a saving grace financially until the Mob gets involved.
They are forced to move to NYC and this makes things worse.
I really enjoyed the characters and the story. This was a thought compelling story filled with drama and heartache.
Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
LOVED this historical fiction read that’s based on the author’s family history. It takes place between 1915-1941 in both Colorado and Brooklyn, New York. It does go back to the beginning of the 1900s Sicily where we learn a bit of back story of the patriarch and matriarch, Mariano and Maria Barbera.
This book tells of the beginning of the Colorado mafia through bootlegging (which I knew nothing about until this book). It has the family lore of a daughter born with red lips and a wolf overseer named Blue. There is a left handed wife, a miracle of survival from a town that gets wiped away in a flood, and a cameo appearance by Al Capone.
There is a despicable patriarch, a strong matriarch, and feuding of gang families.
This book is action packed, entertaining, and takes a look at the origins of the Colorado Sicilian mob.
This book tells of the beginning of the Colorado mafia through bootlegging (which I knew nothing about until this book). It has the family lore of a daughter born with red lips and a wolf overseer named Blue. There is a left handed wife, a miracle of survival from a town that gets wiped away in a flood, and a cameo appearance by Al Capone.
There is a despicable patriarch, a strong matriarch, and feuding of gang families.
This book is action packed, entertaining, and takes a look at the origins of the Colorado Sicilian mob.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌟🌟🌟🌟
The Descendant
Linda Stasi
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this one. A few months ago, I was lucky enough to receive a small sample tucked inside a goodies box, but life got busy and I didn’t get to it. Then, a couple of weeks ago, the full hardcover edition unexpectedly showed up in my mailbox—such a fun surprise!
I finally dove into the sweeping saga of the Barbera family, following their journey from Italy through Ellis Island, to a farm in Colorado, and eventually back to New York—spanning an entire century. It’s a richly layered story of family, love, resilient and empowered women, racism, the immigrant experience, bootleggers, and even the mafia—all inspired by the author’s real-life family history.
This ARC was such a treat to read. Thank you so much for the opportunity!
@books_with_shell
Review of advance copy received from Author
I stayed up several nights until 3 am reading The Descendant because it was almost impossible to stop. I cared about these characters from the first few words of Linda Stasi's book. I came with them in horrible conditions from Sicily across the Atlantic. I was down in the mines of Colorado with them, birthing babies (many babies!) with them, even making bootleg liquor with them. Their fights are real, their wars ferocious, their love-making glorious. I knew Linda to be a witty, sharp, sassy writer of newspaper columns and historical fiction. This one blew me away. The Descendant opens up a hidden part of America's past. Let me tell you that a WOMAN learns her power and uses it in The Descendant. You will love this family and not want their story to end.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I must say I was very impressed with how this story turned out. These events were based on stories of the authors family and the fact that she took to opportunity to share them with the world is very honorable. A lot of people might not appreciate the gruff nature of some of the characters but when you think about it that nature was formed by hardship. This family came to America because their life in the old country was falling apart and when they arrived they were still struggling. Not to mention they were working for people who seemed to have all this money and yet they were the ones struggling despite doibg the heavy lifting. I will say this upcoming March release is a story that will truly humble you. I am super glad I took the opportunity to read this amazing story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed how this was based on the author’s family and how it followed all members within the family without it feeling like it was bouncing around. It flowed well between them and I felt like I really got to know them all. The women of the Barbera family were all strong and had different strengths that helped them during the many tough times they endured. The many hardships they overcame allowed them to make a family legacy with a reputation not to be messed with. I really enjoyed the setting, I was not aware there were mobs in smaller towns like this. Spanning multiple decades there was no shortage of drama or suspense.
Thank you @linda.stasi @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @linda.stasi @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
March 9, 2026
I loved that this book was inspired by the author’s family-the good, bad, and the ugly parts. It reminded me a bit of my husband’s family’s journey from Sicily to Ellis Island in the early 1900s. The La Barbera family left Sicily after a devastating earthquake and moved to the promise land of the US. Unfortunately, the La Barberas, (now Barbera) were hoodwinked and lived in squalor for several years. Before long, the family rose up and built a ranch which was the pivotal point to their connection to the mafia. Even Al Capone made an appearance! Maria, and her daughters, were fiercely loyal women who endured a hard life and protected each other and their interactions were so endearing. This novel felt so real-even the magical encounters with the wolf!
March 26, 2026
What a unique story inspired by true events. It’s about the family that possibly inspired The Godfather, beginning with a love story in a tiny Sicilian village. Mariano and Maria fall in love in that tiny village, but eventually, life brings them to Colorado, then later to Brooklyn. The in between spot is cattle ranching, with a side of gangster. The Barberas have ten children together. The story hones in on the seven daughters.
If you love a family saga and are looking for something completely unexpected, pick this one up. It’s full of drama and just happens to be based on a real family. Highly readable and engaging.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
If you love a family saga and are looking for something completely unexpected, pick this one up. It’s full of drama and just happens to be based on a real family. Highly readable and engaging.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The story of an Italian immigrant family in the Wild West whose crazy, brave, and magical women overcame impossible odds to become bootleggers, brides—and Mafia bosses.
This is full of drama! It is a family saga, historical fiction, and full of strong women! Plus it takes you all over the globe….from Sicily to the wilds of Colorado to the streets of Brooklyn.
Now I did feel like the author repeated herself a bit and spoke the obvious. But that is minor compared to the drama! AND…this is based on a true story. What is not to love!
Need a memorable family saga…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel for a honest review.
This is full of drama! It is a family saga, historical fiction, and full of strong women! Plus it takes you all over the globe….from Sicily to the wilds of Colorado to the streets of Brooklyn.
Now I did feel like the author repeated herself a bit and spoke the obvious. But that is minor compared to the drama! AND…this is based on a true story. What is not to love!
Need a memorable family saga…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel for a honest review.
March 9, 2026
This was an interesting change of pace for me. An Italian family turning into the mafia of the Wild West. I found the characters interesting. Having a pet coyote was unique. The conflict, drama and saga kept me reading.
There were a few moments in the book that reminded me of Lonesome Dove. The way of telling the story and the phrases of the characters.
That cast of characters is a diverse group. Each so unique in their demeanor and characteristics. I liked that the epilogue gave us perspective on how their lives continued. It's such a group of strong determined woman. And to be able to research and write about your family. What a rewarding process.
There were a few moments in the book that reminded me of Lonesome Dove. The way of telling the story and the phrases of the characters.
That cast of characters is a diverse group. Each so unique in their demeanor and characteristics. I liked that the epilogue gave us perspective on how their lives continued. It's such a group of strong determined woman. And to be able to research and write about your family. What a rewarding process.
March 13, 2026
Linda Stasi is a fresh new voice in writing, and she's one I can't get enough of right now. The Descendant is an addictive blend of western drama and Sicilian mafia, and Stasi's writing- simple yet as elaborate and dramatic as an Italian opera- makes it so much more digestible. From her characterizations of the very colourful cast, to the overall growth journey, pushed by the excitement value but grounded in family and heritage, Stasi hits every mark.
The Descendant is a wonderful read unlike anything I've experienced before, and the author makes sure you won't be able to put the book down.
The Descendant is a wonderful read unlike anything I've experienced before, and the author makes sure you won't be able to put the book down.
March 25, 2026
A large number of my favourite authors are journalists. They have a particular way of laying out a story with economy of words and an extravagance of vocabulary.
This book is exactly that.
Once I got past the ick of the Child Bride origin story, I fell in love with the take-no-prisoners characters (particularly Maria and her namesake, Mary), the lush landscapes of Italy, Colorado, and New York, and the crackers story of the Mountain Mafia.
I could see this book being optioned - preferably for a limited run series where the family saga and all its incredible characters could really cook.
This book is exactly that.
Once I got past the ick of the Child Bride origin story, I fell in love with the take-no-prisoners characters (particularly Maria and her namesake, Mary), the lush landscapes of Italy, Colorado, and New York, and the crackers story of the Mountain Mafia.
I could see this book being optioned - preferably for a limited run series where the family saga and all its incredible characters could really cook.
March 2, 2026
This is a fascinating blend of historical fiction and the author's family history that reads like a letter from a friend. I really enjoyed learning more about the mountain mafia and what life was like in the wild west. There is a little something for everyone in the story as the events take place in a variety of locations and I loved that the author could include so many personal and family anecdotes. The courage of the women is inspirational and I'm so glad I had the opportunity to read and review this amazing novel.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2026
This is a sweeping family saga that travels from Sicily to the ranches of Colorado and even into the gritty underworld of Brooklyn. Following the Barbera family across generations, the story is packed with hardship, survival, and plenty of drama. Once the family lands in Colorado, the book takes on a Wild West vibe, which I loved. The daughters especially stood out with their strong personalities. When the sons get tangled up in dangerous bootlegging schemes, the tension ramps up. Knowing it’s inspired by the author’s family makes the whole epic feel even more compelling.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A multigenerational saga that fuses history, heart, and a touch of magic. It follows the Barbera family from the streets of Sicily to the gritty streets of Brooklyn, all through the eyes of fiercely captivating women. With unforgettable characters, daring adventures, and a story that feels both epic and intimate, this novel is a celebration of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
A must-read for fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and bold, unforgettable women.
A must-read for fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and bold, unforgettable women.
February 10, 2026
What an epic experience, there’s so much packed into this story.
This sweeping family saga follows an Italian immigrant family from Sicily to Colorado and eventually Brooklyn, blending the Wild West, bigotry, survival, floods, blizzards, and the rise of mafia power.
I fell in love with the sisters, they’re strong, complex, and unforgettable. Flo was my favorite; her bond with the wolf felt simply magical.
If you love historical fiction like I do, this one is absolutely fascinating.
This sweeping family saga follows an Italian immigrant family from Sicily to Colorado and eventually Brooklyn, blending the Wild West, bigotry, survival, floods, blizzards, and the rise of mafia power.
I fell in love with the sisters, they’re strong, complex, and unforgettable. Flo was my favorite; her bond with the wolf felt simply magical.
If you love historical fiction like I do, this one is absolutely fascinating.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A family drama based on real events and the Italian family that possibly inspired The Godfather. Mariano Barbera and his family come to America with big dreams but he finds himself working in the dangerous mines, and treated badly. This has many twist and turns as they go from working in the mines to ranch life, and then the mafia forcing their hand, which brings them to New York. This was interesting and I really enjoyed it.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
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