Book Review
This was a cute, silly, short, and fun read. It was written in and takes place in 2002, which made me nostalgic for that era. Vince is the 17 year old son of a mob boss and he falls for Kendra, who is the daughter of an FBI agent. It’s a fun and silly read. I read it all with a New York accent in my head. It’s a good book to read if you want something lighthearted and quick.
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Having seen the striking cover of 'Son of the Mob' – that bold black silhouette against the vibrant red background, the title filled with dollar bill patterns, and the guy even holding a money rose – I just had to pick it up! It instantly caught my eye, and I'm so glad I did. If you're like me, drawn in by captivating cover art, this book delivers on its promise of a fun, unique story. The visual of the 'Son of the Mob' on the cover, with those sunglasses and that money rose, perfectly sets the whimsical yet intriguing tone. What really stood out to me, beyond the gorgeous red and black design, was the strong sense of nostalgia for 2002. Gordon Korman perfectly captures the era, from the technology (or lack thereof, compared to today!) to the fashion and social dynamics. It felt like stepping back in time, which added another layer of enjoyment to the whole experience. No smartphones, just pure, unadulterated teenage drama and burgeoning romance, making the misunderstandings and connections feel even more authentic to that time. The core premise, a mob boss's son, Vince, falling for Kendra, the daughter of an FBI agent, sounds like it could be super intense, right? But Korman handles it with such a lighthearted, silly touch that it's genuinely charming. You're not getting a gritty crime drama here; it's a delightful YA romance with a comedic twist. The 'mafia romance' aspect is more about the hilarious clashes of their worlds and the absurdity of their situation than any dark undertones. I found myself chuckling frequently at Vince's attempts to navigate his two very different lives – trying to be a 'normal' teenager while constantly being pulled into his family's eccentric (and illegal) dealings. The internal monologue, which I totally read in a New York accent in my head, just added to the fun! Both Vince and Kendra are incredibly likable, and their chemistry is just adorable as they navigate their forbidden attraction. It's truly a testament to Korman's writing that he can take such a potentially heavy theme and make it so accessible and enjoyable for a younger audience, and for anyone looking for a quick, feel-good read. The pacing is fantastic; chapters flow seamlessly, making it incredibly easy to devour in one or two sittings. It's the kind of book you pick up and suddenly realize you're halfway through because you're so engrossed. If you're into YA contemporary romance, especially those with a humorous edge and an 'opposites attract' trope, you absolutely have to check this out. It’s perfect for a weekend afternoon when you need a break from heavier reads, offering a unique blend of humor, heart, and a touch of light intrigue. Plus, who can resist that iconic red cover with the black silhouette? It's a visual treat that perfectly hints at the playful chaos within, making it a memorable addition to any bookshelf.