Broken Beginnings (Moretti Crime Family)

The relationships in the story feel layered and morally ambiguous. I'm curious whether this was an intentional exploration or a natural outcome of the characters' backgrounds.

The romance is intense but also uncomfortable at times. How do readers reconcile enjoying the story while grappling with its darker themes?

The world-building adds a gritty, dangerous vibe, but I wonder what drew the author to this setting and how much was based on research or imagination.