Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Jo Piazza, a mother of three, embarks on a journey to uncover the century-old mystery surrounding the death of her great-great-grandmother, Lorenza Marsala. Growing up, Jo heard stories of how Lorenza was killed in Sicily before she could join her family in America, leaving behind a trail of wild theories and unanswered questions.
After the passing of her father in 2015, Jo stumbled upon his computer, leading her to discover his obsession with uncovering the truth behind Lorenza’s death. Despite his physical limitations, he devoted himself to researching the family history, sparking Jo’s determination to continue his work.
Delving into archives and family stories, Jo pieces together the puzzle of Lorenza’s life, uncovering details of her birth in 1862 and tragic death in 1916 in the village of Caltabellotta. Jo’s investigation takes her to Ellis Island, where she unravels the immigration journey of Lorenza’s children to the United States.
Amid warnings from family and friends about the dangers of unearthing old wounds, Jo remains undeterred in her quest for truth. She travels to Caltabellotta, where she uncovers the handwritten ‘Death Book,’ revealing unsettling details about Lorenza’s demise and a mysterious connection to another man named Nicolo Martino.
As rumors swirl about witchcraft, mafia involvement, and avenging sons, Jo’s investigation leads her to speculate on the circumstances surrounding Lorenza’s death. With each revelation, Jo is one step closer to unraveling the truth in her true crime podcast and fictional murder mystery novel, “The Sicilian Inheritance.”
Through her personal journey of discovery and connection with her late father, Jo is determined to shine a light on a decades-old cold case that has haunted her family for generations. As she continues to peel back the layers of mystery surrounding Lorenza’s death, Jo’s dedication to uncovering the truth serves as a poignant tribute to her family’s past and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.