The Godfather by Mario Puzo, published in 1969, tells the story of the powerful Corleone Mafia family in post-World War II New York City. At the heart of the novel is Don Vito Corleone, a crime boss who oversees his family's operations. The story unfolds during a wedding, where Michael Corleone, the youngest son, tries to distance himself from the family's criminal activities. However, after a failed assassination attempt on his father, Michael becomes deeply involved in the family's revenge and power struggles, eventually taking on the mantle of the Godfather himself. The novel explores themes of loyalty, power, family, and betrayal, and became a massive success, inspiring a film series that cemented its cultural legacy.
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