The Last Testament of Lucky Luciano

by Martin A. Gosch, Richard Hammer

Expose of organized crime families in New York, based on information provided by Charles "Lucky" Luciano and others associated with alleged Mafia activities.

Genres: True Crime, Crime, Biography, Nonfiction, History, Autobiography, Memoir

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1975

Reviews

[Dave Klaboe · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a mafia addict, this is one of the best books to read. Charlie Lacania tells his life story from start to finish. He is likeable, and I have friends who met him in a bar in Sicily when my ship visited Messina. And he was so happy to talk to Americans, they loved him. To read his life story is to read the history of Italian mobsters in the U.S., and you will see that nearly every book or film about the mob (including the Godfather) is either partly or wholly based on his life. I came across it accidentally, and couldn't put it down. He was the original "Scarface" and Lucky was a apt nickname. If he had led a life on the other side, he might have been president. I am sure there are some embellishments in this book and it may not be literature in the writers sense. But it sure is fun to read.

[Lee Scoresby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun to read. That's why I gave it three stars. It is funny how every mobster who tells his story, from Joe Bonano to the non-existent Vito Corleone, are always great guys who just kill a few bad guys who deserve it, stimulate the economy with some benevolent loan sharking, entertain us with some illegal gambling, and selflessly help the political process along by corrupting politicians and union leaders.
It is always their enemies that run prostitution rings and sell drugs.

I am impressed by the writers of The Sopranos who let their characters be criminals who actually do bad stuff.

[Lữ Đoàn Đỏ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Đọc trong dịp nghỉ lễ. Cuốn này tựa như hồi ký của ông trùm Luciano, Puzo viết cuốn Bố Già xuất bản năm 1969, cuốn này xuất bản năm 1975 mà thế giới ngầm trong Bố Già sống động và chân thực thế. Rất giống những hoạt động của Luciano kể lại. Vì viết theo dạng hồi ký, đọc cho người khác chép lại nên nó không có chất điện ảnh như tiểu thuyết Bố Già nhưng nó là thực tế trần trụi. Từ việc bảo kê, đánh bạc, thuốc phiện, mại dâm.. hay thao túng giới chính trị, thậm chí mua chuộc tổng thống. Tất cả đều được thuật lại và xuất bản 10 năm sau ngày Luciano qua đời.

Cuộc đời 1 con người đi từ nghèo khổ cùng cực tới đỉnh cao quyền lực, tiền kiếm được còn nhiều hơn cả Henry Ford, thao túng mọi mặt xã hội, rồi bắn giết, thanh toán nội bộ tới khi thoái trào, bị tống giam rồi đầy biệt xứ. Nhân sinh đi 1 vòng từ không đến có rồi lại về không. Lúc chết không còn tiền, không còn quyền lực, và cũng chẳng còn ai bên cạnh. May mắn nhất là Luciano cũng biết yêu, gặp được người con gái cho ông hiểu tình yêu là gì, nhưng nhân duyên ngắn ngủi quá.

Thế giới ngầm có những luật bắt buộc phải tuân thủ nếu không sẽ trả bằng tính mạng, hôm nay là bạn bè thân cận, ngày sau có thể lật mặt bắn giết. Đọc hết về cuộc đời ông cảm thấy rất cám cảnh, mệt mỏi tới như vậy, có ngày muốn dừng lại cũng không rút chân nổi nữa. Đọc hồi ký này hấp dẫn và nhiều thông tin, nhưng dịch hay cắt mấy đoạn sex, những đoạn đó vô hại, không hiểu sao phải cắt. Giọng văn dịch chẳng hiểu sao thấy có phần cứ hơi định hướng. Nhưng nhìn chung vẫn ổn. Sách khá dầy và cổ, có lẽ chẳng mấy người biết được. Đọc vì được giới thiệu, thỉnh thoảng lượm lặt được mấy cuốn như này để đọc ổn quá. 8/10.

[Ice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Straight from the horse's mouth. Lucky's testament jives with other reliable accounts of the inner workings of organized crime while filling in a lot of gaps on the development and early history of the five NY families.
For the most part the information appears reliable, although in some cases, such as Lucky's professed denial of his significant involvement in the international drug trade, it seems clear that he 'dost protest too much.'

Lucky's claims about his involvement --or lack thereof-- in Operation Underworld, the WWII Naval Intellegence op to keep the NY docks safe, as well as the invasion of Sicily, also seem to ring true. Like Giancanna, Trafficante and Rosselli in a later clandestine relationship with CIA to kill Castro, it was all a scam. I can even believe Lucky's claim that he actually engineered the sabotage of the Normandie to kick the whole scheme off.

But what the 'Testament' provides best of all is a close look from Lucky's perspective at the personalities and relationships of the most infamous members of Cosa Nostra and their associates:
Lucky knew them all.

[Walt · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is something of a classic in the genre.
I think it is entertaining and at parts humorous. About half way through the book turns into something like a sob story with Luciano complaining about persecution. Unfortunately, much of the material is contradicted by the media, Congress, and the DOJ. Most authors consult this book; but accept that much of it is bogus. As late as 2006 some authors were building a case that Luciano was either grossly ingenius or the entire interview was a fabrication.

[JM Scarpati · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sopranos, Goodfellas, The Godfather...none of these cultural touchstones would have been quite the same (or maybe even existed) had it not been for Salvatore Lucania.

This book, a supposed first hand account of the most consequential period in American Mafia history, is expertly transcribed by it's author Martin Gosch. He lays out a very clear, comprehensive and comprehensible timeline of these historical events while allowing Lucky's natural storytelling ability, wit, and humor to shine through. You really get a feel for what both men brought to this book and are left with a deeper understanding not only of the Mafia, but also America, immigration, prohibition, criminality, government...

Like any good book on the Mafia (especially those offering "first hand accounts") this book is not entirely factual and should be read with the understanding of who Luciano was and what he did in his life. And while he was undoubtedly a bad person, someone who preyed on his own community, fostered violence, and had a self-indulgent view of himself, you also get a full portrait of this flawed person.

Anyone looking to learn more about this undeniably fascinating piece of American history should start with this book.

[Ocean G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm amazed at how much of what Luciano did would have gotten him kicked out of the mafia today. Maybe it's a statement on how bureaucratic anything can get after some time. Between having a Jewish consigliere (and encouraging having non-italians as part of the outfit in general), to not only ratting out, but delivering Lepke to the police (and technically setting up Vito Genovese as well, although he had some the same thing to Luciano), to choosing to retire (which Frank Costello did as well).

Obviously all of this is from Luciano's point of view, also filtered through Gosch's retelling, so the facts should be taken with a grain of salt. But regardless, it doesn't disappoint.

I thought this would become boring once he was arrested (and his rise had basically stopped), but the book kept me interested throughout. This is highly recommended for anyone interested in the Italian mob in general (all you Sopranos and Goodfellas fans out there). I find it strange that it's so difficult to find this book these days.

5 stars because it is one of a kind (don't even try mentioning "underboss")

[Patrick Broderick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very interesting book about the Boss of Bosses in New York from his rise to his downfall. His regrets, desires and his opinions on his friends and enemies was fascinating.

While this is a first person account of a man who would whitewash some of his sins so that needs to be taken into account while reading this. Still, a marvelous slice of history of America, and particularly New York, in the early to mid 20th century.

[Terri Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. I had never really had much of an understanding of the Mafia, despite the term Mafia being common vernacular. So, when I found this book (I read The Luciano Testament version) by Martin Gosch, it was such an eye-opener. This book spurred me on to learn more about the Mafia from the beginning through to today. Un-be-lievable!!!
If you love a good insight into history, criminal psychology and corruption, this is a great start.

[Fraser Merricks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mafia history has always fascinated me and this was a book the second I heard about it, bought it a read with eagerness. With his history in organized crime, Lucky was a criminal and being criminal means that a lot of what he said may not of been true. Being a criminal of that stature, you will try anything to hide your enterprise and criminal activities. I do believe a lot of what he said was true but take this book with a pinch of salt. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this read.

[Darryl Breland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone who enjoys reading about organized crime particularly in the Italian mafia would be interested in learning what lucky Luciano had to say about his own life. Of course he painted himself as anyone would in the best light. But it is interesting because he required the publisher to wait 10 years after his death so he’s able to reveal things he normally would not have been able to

[Le Van · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,6*
Tựa tiếng Việt: Găng-xtơ Đặc sản Hoa Kỳ
In 1000 cuốn, khổ 13*19cm
NXB Công an Nhân dân, năm 2001

Nội dung: Cuốn tự truyện của trùm Mafia tên Lucian, là người gốc Sisil (Ý) di cư qua Mỹ. Hắn đã trở thành một trong những trùm của trùm Mafia khét tiếng ở Mỹ ở thế kỷ XX

[Noah Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably the best individual focused Mafia book I have ever read. To hear the story of Charlie Lucky told from his own mouth, was fantastic. I used to say Carlo Gambino was the most successful mobster of all time, but after reading this book, I’d say it was lucky. Would rec to anyone.

[Tristan William · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great view into the perspective of Salvatore Lucania and how he felt about his up-comings and shortcomings in life. A great read and true to the posted quote in front of the book, by a book reviewer, “Dramatic, gripping… better than The Godfather” - The New York Times

[Don Quichot · Rating 4 out of 5]

amazing book... real honesty and unsuspected humility of crime boss

[Matthew Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the few books I return to every few years.

[Jill Amadio · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating glimpse into the life of a mobster par excellence who during World War II assisted the U.S. Navy investigate domestic terrorism and smuggling in the Port of New York, saving lives and helping thwart locals working for the Nazis. Martin Gosch holds one's attention on every page and reveals many details about Luciano's strange, unexpected patriotism.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a really entertaining read and a good look into personal anecdotes of Charlie Luciano's life. It details even lesser known and personal events, and in some cases is the only account we have of them. However, if you're looking for hard facts, look elsewhere, or at least keep in mind to take everything with a very large grain of salt. "Last Testament" began as a fictionalized movie script inspired by Luciano's life, and its writing involved both Luciano's own biases/embellishments and Martin Gosch's, either for the sake of sensationalism, painting Luciano sympathetically, or in interest of protecting themselves from Luciano's still-living associates.

I would recommend this book as a part of any gangster history collection, and for anyone interested in a glimpse at Lucky Luciano through his own perspective and voice. Cross-referencing with other books (such as Tim Newark's Boardwalk Gangster: The Real Lucky Luciano or Ellen Poulsen's The Case Against Lucky Luciano: New York's Most Sensational Vice Trial) would be highly recommended.

[Greg Olsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an entertaining read, though it was quite disheartening to see all of the corruption in the world. There is not a character to root for in the book as evil abounds whether on the part of the mobsters or on the part of those trying to stop them. It seems that Luciano tries to evoke pity throughout his tale, but I could feel none for the problems that came about due to his greed and selfishness. I did feel bad for his girlfriend.

I guess the main thought I have upon completion of the book is wondering whether or not I could be bought. Would I sell my integrity?

[Jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found this book to be a very in-depth look into the life of Lucky Luciano. From the beginnings of his life in America all the way to his death exiled in Italy. The inside workings of the mob and absolutely fascinating stories are certainly the highlights. I'm not sure you'll find a much better book about what happened in the mob during the glory years of Luciano's reign.

[Jonathan Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want to know about corruption in NYC PD during the prohibition years and beyond. Insider account of how NYC was a mob town. Great kind of humble voice from the dying old mobster as he confess all to two journalists. Wild tale.

[Troy Sehlinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! An excellent Historical account of the Mafia and its roots. At times it makes you feel like you are actually in the moment. Recommend this one for anyone who likes Goodfellas/The Departed/Casino.

[Debbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

my favorite book of 6th grade, i found it on my dad's shelf. i must have read it 5 times, i loved it!

[Charley · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty honest account, I think...

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

To understand the failure of the 'war on drugs', you need to understand the failure of the 'war on alcohol'. (Glad for the opportunity to replace my dog-eared 1976 edition.)

[Rick · Rating 4 out of 5]

These guys really come off as scumbags . . . and that's even when the story is told mostly from the point of view of one of their own. Good book for a rainy day.

[Tony Pisano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unreal, great read. Flew through it in no time. On par with Wiseguys Casino and The Godfather

[Lynne · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing is dry and often confusing, also obviously it's very one sided, but nevertheless it was surprisingly interesting and I learned some American history.

[Frank Palardy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Supposedly had some Italian scopes on Luciano. He spent his last few decades there but doesn't seem to have had much to do.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

The part I remember is him bragging about how all his nurses were totally into him :-)