Amidst the aroma of Sunday pasta and the hustle of a family-owned commercial greenhouse, the shadow of the “Mafia” looms large as the story unfolds in John Rosa’s debut novel, “Sons of Potenza.”
A seasoned journalist born into a large Italian American family, Rosa was always fascinated by the mafia, its connection to the Italian American community, and the impact it had on the neighborhoods in which it operated. Rosa spent more than two decades as a journalist around the Denver area, first as a sports reporter and then later as an editor, before becoming a communication manager for the Colorado Department of Human Services. A Colorado native, Rosa lives in the Denver suburb of Littleton alongside his wife Julie, a nationally certified master groomer, their myriad show dogs (bichons and poodles), and their cherished families.
Rosa has always had a passion for telling stories, whether it was through the superhero comics he wrote as a child or the countless news articles he wrote during his professional life. Writing a novel had always been a dream, one he recently realized with the publication of “Sons of Potenza.”
The Backdrop
“Sons of Potenza” is a captivating tale that spans generations and dives deep into Italian Immigration to America in the 1900s, the impact of prohibition, and the rise of organized crime in Denver, Pueblo, and the Rocky Mountains. Born out of Rosa’s love of mafia tales and the desire to immortalize family stories, the novel takes inspiration from actual events, crafting a crime fiction narrative that intertwines seamlessly with Colorado’s mob history.
The Plot Unveiled
The novel is a non-linear journey that spans the turn of the 20th century to the 1960s, revolving around the Scaglia family and their connections to the Donatos. These two families immigrated to Colorado from Potenza, Italy. Set against the city of Denver and its surroundings, the story navigates through recognizable landmarks, including a legendary drive-in burger joint, The Scotchman, and the streets surrounding the Governor’s Mansion. The novel kicks off with the assassination of Denver mob boss Charlie Salardino in 1942, a power move by the Scaglias, who once aided Salardino during prohibition.
The narrative then shifts to the 1960s, introducing cousins Little John Donato and Jimmy Donato, whose lives intersect with Black Jack Scaglia, the new Denver mob boss. As the story unfolds, alliances are formed, partnerships are tested, and characters grapple with choices that could define their destinies.
The Personal Catalyst
For Rosa, the spark for “Sons of Potenza” ignited during a period of contemplation after the passing of his father in 2022 due to COVID-19. Encouraged by family tales of his dad, Little John, and cousin Jimmy, Rosa embarked on a journey to amalgamate these stories with his love for mob narratives. The result is an engaging tale that took 18 months to write, surpassing the barriers that hindered his previous attempts to complete a novel.
Themes Echoing Reality
The novel explores the duality of human nature, delving into the justifications people make for their actions. Rosa draws parallels with contemporary society, reflecting on how individuals can commit questionable deeds while still maintaining a self-perceived sense of righteousness. The overarching theme challenges readers to contemplate the lines they would cross to achieve the elusive American Dream.
Key Plot Points
Without delving into spoilers, three pivotal moments shape this crime fiction narrative – the decision to eliminate Charlie Salardino, the collaboration between the Scaglias and the Donatos against Anders Lindgren, a particularly brutal businessman who controls the carnation industry in Colorado, and Little John Donato’s internal struggle with a choice that could alter the course of his family’s fate.
Reviews Speak Volumes
Readers laud Rosa’s ability to bring characters to life, making them feel like familiar faces on the street. The seamless intertwining of real and fictional events adds to the allure, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Looking Ahead
Rosa’s aspirations extend beyond “Sons of Potenza.” He envisions a series with these characters, promising more engaging tales. His desire is simple – to offer readers a captivating escape akin to the novels found in airport bookshops.
The Bottom Line
“Sons of Potenza” is a crime book discussing Italian American History, crime, families, and the choices that shape destinies. As readers immerse themselves in the history of the Italian mafia in America, they are invited to reflect on their own choices, questioning the lines they would cross for their version of the American Dream. John Rosa’s debut is a page-turner, demonstrating the enduring power of family intertwined with the allure of organized crime in Colorado.
Published by: Martin De Juan
