"It seems we have an insatiable appetite when it comes to reading about the Mafia."

Over the past several years there has been an immense body of literature, fiction as well as non-fiction, devoted to the topic of the Mafia. In fact, colleges are even offering courses analysing Mafia Literature. It seems we have an insatiable appetite when it comes to reading about these wise guys.

The newest book to be unleashed is D. Lea Jacobs first work of non-fiction, FRIEND OF THE FAMILY. According to the inside flap of the book, Jacobs is an established author of historical fiction, writing under a different name. In view of Jacobs' previous writing experiences, it is not surprising that the book reads like an adventure novel rather than a non-fiction tale.

The crux of the story centres around two of the most famous successful undercover criminal operations in the annals of the FBI, the Coldwater and Pizza II operations. The main protagonist is the FBI's first and probably one of the best undercover agents to work against the Mafia, Ed Robb, known as Tony Rossi to the Mob. It was Ed Robb who in fact pioneered the tactics, techniques, and procedures that continue to guide today's FBI covert operations.

At times reading the multitude of facts, stories and players, seemed like I was watching a spider weaving its web and eventually capturing its prey. Although, I must admit, it was very often difficult to keep track of all of the names tossed around. However, thankfully, to rectify this problem, an appendix at the back of the book lists the cast of characters. It also indicates to which Mafia family each of the bad guys owed allegiance and who were the good guys.

Apart from describing and analysing the various sting operations of the FBI, the book also explores the conflicts faced by the main protagonist. The mental stability of Ed Robb played an extremely important role in the overall undercover operation. As mentioned in the book, " a deep undercover penetration could change forever the mental makeup of the participant. Like the death of a loved one, a wrenching divorce, or any other extremely stressful emotional trauma, they are never forgotten and the effects are permanent."

There is no doubt that the facts and insights Jacobs presents are by and large absorbing, and often unexpected. We are reminded that behind the tough guy mask of these criminals are often paranoid personalities who can concoct infantile schemes leading to their downfall. One moment they may be gentle, funny or sad, and in the next moment they believe they are invincible and that nothing can harm them.

Reviewed by Norman Goldman
Posted November 7, 2002

Summary

During his 20 years in the FBI, Special Agent Ed Robb wrote the book on penetrating the Mob: he was among the first undercover agents in FBI history and, in the end, proved to be the best. His Mafia stings resulted in over 200 convictions. Along the way, he was contracted to hit a family member, was designated a Mob boss, and was in line to become a made man. Robb was one of the handful of courageous men who turned the tide against the Mob, from the inside out. This is the story of how they did it.