The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza

         A free trip to Sicily, inheriting a whole plot of land, and uncovering bombshell family secrets were not on Sara Marsala’s bingo card for the year, but might have been exactly what she needed. With the emotions surrounding her beloved Sicilian Aunt Rosie’s death still raw, her marriage and her restaurant in shambles, and the new fear and stress that she might lose custody of her four-year old daughter, Sara isn’t exactly doing so hot. Then, she opens a letter from her aunt ushering her on a mission and a journey. A free week in Sicily, where Sara must investigate if there is any merit to a centuries old deed in which the sale could provide her a much needed cushion to reopen her restaurant and get back on her feet. Rosie gives her a second unexpected mission as well, and that is to learn about Sara’s namesake great-grandmother, Serafina. There are mysteries surrounding Serafina’s death that must be uncovered. Upon arriving in Sicily, Sara is surrounded by new and wonderful sights, smells, and tastes, but the more she digs into the details around her great-grandmother’s death and the land deed, the more she puts herself in danger from those who wish to leave things the way they are. 

         There is a big theme in this book about motherhood, women, and their strength. Serafina was a very intelligent woman and became the town’s doctor or “healer”. Yet, strong independent women in Sicily in the early 20th century were looked down upon and often referred to as witches. And then there is the strength of Sara, who pulls herself out of a difficult situation to make sure her Aunt’s dying wishes are fulfilled. 

       Readers will enjoy  the scene painting in this book. The richly detailed landscapes of Sicily and its little towns will make you want to get on a plane and travel. Just don’t read this book on an empty stomach because you will want to immediately down a fresh bowl of pasta and baked bread.

       Another great thing about this book is that there is a little something for everybody: historical fiction, family drama, mystery, and even touches of romance. Something will catch your attention in this book. 

      If you enjoy reads such as this that explore family history and secrets with vivid landscapes, be sure to also check out The Venice Sketchbook  by Rhys Bowen, The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani, and Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams.