Stephanie Amaral’s debut novel, "From Dust to Don", is a compelling, gritty exploration of ambition, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of power. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous, crime-ridden city, Amaral spins a tale that is as riveting as it is reflective of the darker sides of human nature. With its deep character development and intense plot twists, this book challenges the reader to ponder the true cost of success at any price.

The story follows the life of Alex Rios, a young man whose early years are plagued by poverty and loss in the barrios of New York. His journey from these humble beginnings to the zenith of organized crime leadership is painted with a rich palette of emotions and ethical dilemmas. Amaral does a masterful job of crafting characters that are nuanced and relatable, despite their often morally ambiguous choices. This depth is particularly evident in Alex, whose complexity allows the reader to both sympathize with his plight and question his methods.

Amaral's narrative style is fluid and engaging. Her prose, rich with vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue, captures the essence of the gritty realities facing the characters. The settings, from dilapidated apartments to lavish hideouts, are described with such detail that they almost act as characters in their own right. The interplay between setting and character evolution is a standout aspect of Amaral’s writing style, illustrating how external environments can influence and shape personal development.

The plot of "From Dust to Don" is tightly woven, with suspenseful twists and turns that keep the pages turning. Amaral explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for power with a keen eye, making no compromise in depicting the brutal realities of the criminal underworld. The growth of Alex, both as a leader and as an individual, is meticulously charted, providing a fascinating glance into the internal conflicts that accompany his external battles.

Furthermore, the book does not shy away from the philosophical. It delves into existential queries about destiny and choice, exploring whether one is truly bound by circumstances or free to shape one's path. Through the protagonist’s eyes, readers are forced to confront the gray areas of morality, making "From Dust to Don" a thought-provoking read.

One of the more impressive aspects of Amaral’s work is her ability to maintain a palpable tension throughout the narrative while also taking time to delve deep into character introspection. This balance is not easily achieved, yet Amaral manages it with a skill that belies her status as a debut author. The emotional depth she brings to her characters transforms what could have been a typical rags-to-riches story into a profound commentary on human nature and ambition.

However, the novel is not without its faults. At times, the pacing feels uneven, particularly in the middle chapters where the introspective ponderings of Alex might slow down the momentum built by the action sequences. Additionally, some readers might find the resolution of certain plot threads a bit rushed, giving a sense of an abrupt conclusion to what is, for the most part, a meticulously developed narrative arc.

In terms of thematic contribution and genre, "From Dust to Don" stands out as a significant piece. It does not just entertain but also challenges the reader to think deeply about the consequences of our choices and the innate drive for power inherent in humanity. Amaral’s novel is an ambitious work that largely succeeds in exploring complex themes through the lens of a crime drama.

In conclusion, Stephanie Amaral's "From Dust to Don" is a robust, thrilling debut that offers much more than just crime and suspense. Through the life of Alex Rios, Amaral paints a broad canvas exploring themes of power, morality, and ambition. Despite a few hitches in pacing and plot resolution, the book stands as a commendable venture into the trials and tribulations of ascending to power. It is a must-read for those who appreciate crime dramas woven with philosophical undertones, and it marks Amaral as a promising voice in contemporary fiction.