Gilded Princess (Die fünf Familien 1)

The story is intense and gritty, but also surprisingly tender at times. I wonder what inspired that blend and how it was kept consistent throughout.

Some characters are so complex and layered that I wasn't sure whether to root for them or question their choices. How do others interpret their motivations?

The world-building feels authentic and immersive, and I’m curious whether the author drew from real-life stories or created the mafia universe from imagination.