Many of them likely have complex characters. For example, the protagonists might be anti - heroes, caught between their own moral compass and the demands of the mafia world they are part of. Just like in some classic mafia stories, they often face tough choices.
There's also 'The Sopranos: The Book' which is based on the TV series. It delves into the life of a mafia boss and his relationships, both in the mafia world and in his family, which includes elements of love.
The book 'Sicilian Romance' also involves elements of love and the mafia - like Sicilian setting. It tells a story of love and intrigue in a place where the mafia has a strong influence, and the female characters are often caught up in the complex web of relationships and power struggles.
Well, from what I know, 'The Force' by Don Winslow also came out in 2016 and can be considered in the realm of mafia - related fiction. It tells the story of a corrupt cop who gets involved with the wrong crowd, including mafia - type figures, and the consequences that follow. The book is really good at showing the seedy underbelly of the criminal world.
One book could be 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo. Although it's about the Italian mafia mainly, it has themes of loyalty, family and love which are also relevant in a Russian mafia love story context. It shows how family relationships are intertwined with the criminal underworld and how love can exist within such a complex and dangerous environment.
Fictional mafia books often have complex characters. For example, in 'The Godfather', Michael Corleone starts as an innocent young man but gets drawn into the mafia world. They also have a sense of loyalty and betrayal within the mafia families. The settings are usually in urban areas with a seedy underworld.
One characteristic is the portrayal of power dynamics. Mafia novels often show how power is gained, maintained, and fought over within the criminal organization. For example, in 'The Godfather', the Corleone family's power structure is a central aspect.
The 'Godfather' trilogy books are surely among the top. They are masterpieces in depicting the mafia lifestyle, with its codes of honor and brutal violence. 'Donnie Brasco' is also a great mafia fiction book. It shows the life of an undercover agent infiltrating the mafia. 'Scarface' - related books can also be considered. They tell the story of a ruthless mobster's rise to power, filled with action, drama, and the dark side of the mafia world.
I would recommend 'The Godfather'. It is a masterpiece that shows the mafia family's hierarchy, loyalty, and betrayal. The characters are well - developed, and the story is full of drama. Another good one is 'Gomorrah' which is eye - opening about the mafia's impact on society. It reveals the dark underbelly of the Neapolitan mafia.