Author Night at Hubbell Library: Richard Robbins

We Do What We Must

"We Do What We Must: Blood, Wine, and the Birth of the American Mafia in New Orleans," blends true history with fiction in a compelling story of organized crime in New Orleans. Book signing to follow.

Author Richard Robbins will discuss his new book, We Do What We Must: Blood, Wine, and the Birth of the American Mafia in New Orleans. The talk will be followed by a book signing. 

This fictionalized tale recounts the story of the true life Giacona family, who emigrated from Sicily to New Orleans in the 1890s. They came to the US to escape the influence of The Mafia, only to be confronted by the same challenges in the New World. Pietro and Corrado, father and son, do what they must to defend their family and business from the dreaded Black Hand, as well as powerful organized crime families. They proceed the only way they know how: through bravery, guile, and tough choices. Although committed to living as "Honest Italians," their choices lead them down a perilous path.

Richard lives with his wife in New Orleans and New York City, near their adult children, and his work is infused with the flavor of those vibrant and unique cities. Richard was named Louisiana Independent Author of the Year for 2020, and his works have won numerous awards, including Feathered Quill Book Awards and Readers' Favorite Book Awards. We Do What We Must won the 2022 Pinnacle Book Achievement Award for Historical Fiction. 

Sponsored by Friends of Hubbell Library

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