The epic saga behind the Disney-produced Hulu Original Series The Lions of SicilyBased on the true history of the uncrowned kings of Sicily: the story of a family, restless and ambitious, shrewd and determined to be richer and more powerful than anybody else. In this grand, sweeping epic inspired by the real lives of history-making titans, international best-selling author Stefania Auci brings to life the dark secrets, the loves and betrayals, and the cruel acts of revenge that marked the Florio family’s century of influence.The Florios arrive in Sicily, with nothing but the clothes on their back after an earthquake destroys their hometown. Against all odds, the family begins anew despite the looming Napoleonic wars and devastating plagues. But when Vincenzo is spurned by his aristocratic lover, he vows to avenge his honor by becoming the wealthiest man in Italy. Sacrificing love and family, he strives to buy what cannot be his by birth. Not to be outdone by the men, the Florio women unapologetically demand their place outside the restraints of caring mothers, alluring lovers, or wounded wives. Giulia, though only a mistress, is fiercely intelligent and runs the empire from the shadows. Angelina, born a bastard, charts her own future against the wishes of her father.In this epic yet intimate tale of power, passion, and revenge, the rise and fall of a family taps into the universal desire to become more than who we are born as.Translated from the Italian by Katherine Gregor
The epic retelling of a real Sicilian peasant family's rise & fall-the basis for the Disney-produced Hulu Original Series The Lions of Sicily.
"Beautifully written, impossible to put down, the powerful Florios of Sicily are alive on every page." -Peter Golden, author of Nothing Is Forgotten
In this sweeping saga inspired by the real lives of history-making titans, international bestselling author Stefania Auci brings to life the dark secrets, the loves and betrayals, and the cruel acts of revenge that marked the Florio family's century of influence.
When the Florios arrive in Sicily after an earthquake destroys their beloved home, they own nothing but the clothes on their back. Against all odds, the family begins anew amid devastating plagues and the looming Napoleonic wars. However, a lover's betrayal spurs prodigal son Vincenzo to seek revenge. He vows to restore his honor by becoming the wealthiest man in Italy, and nothing will get in his way.
An intimate, epic tale of power, passion, and revenge, The Florios of Sicily portrays the rise and fall of a family determined to take control of their own destinies . . .at any price.
Translated from the Italian by Katherine Gregor
"Auci focuses a panoramic lens on the Florio family's achievements while never losing sight of the smaller personal details of their (epic) lives." -Kirkus Reviews
"Auci expertly weaves the details of the times and locations through the various historical events. Her many characters all ring true. Their true-to-life interactions, emotions and dialogue make it easy for readers to care. Her prose is clean but hardly dull. . . . Overall, this epic tale is a pleasure. Highly recommended." -Historical Novel Society
