Mob buffs will out - T.J. English's newest story is set to please. English's "Havana Nocturne: How the Mob Owned Cuba and Then Lost It to the Revolution " bills itself as THE definitive behind-the-scenes story of the mob's involvement in building up Havana, Cuba. The sultry pleasure hideaway of Havana is painted as a mysterious, inviting spot of sin away from home.

English's writing style is similar to the style of Mario Puzo, the genius behind the much beloved "Godfather," which inspired the very well-received film of the same name. Havana Nocturne is much more focused on painting a broad historical background by using interconnecting and related events, though not necessarily in the order in which they happened. Real life figures are used in the book, which is more a study in history than a fictional character sketch. There is certainly a good amount of speculation and assumption, which is to be expected, as many of the characters chronicled in this book specifically tried to live their lives shrouded in as much secrecy as possible. Specific claims are made within this book, which interestingly run counter to widespread knowledge on the topic of the mob and its business dealings. One such claim is that the Havana mob was never specifically involved in prostitution, a topic open to various interpretations and viewpoints.

English uses new sources and synthesizes various new pieces of the mysterious puzzle of the mob's involvement in Cuba. English paints a picture of infamous mobster Meyer Lanksy as the architect behind the mob's success in Havana. Initially partnering up with old buddy "Lucky" Luciano, Lanksy soon took over the entire venture himself, as Luciano's legal problems forced his departure back to Italy. Various colorful characters come into the story, sometimes leaving in peace, sometimes leaving the world of the living. "Havana Nocturne" is a rich treat for the senses and a trip both fantastical and historical. "Havana Nocturne" is published by William Morrow.