In her latest novel, which kicks off a new series, Maniscalco (Stalking Jack the Ripper) delves into a richly imagined landscape of Italian folklore centered on Sicilian twins Emilia and Vittoria di Carlo. As goddess-descended witches, or streghe, the sisters are particularly at risk from the Malvagi, a brotherhood of demon princes. The lifelong enmity between the streghe and Malvagi means that the twins must always wear blessed amulets; when they bring them together one night as eight-year-olds, despite their Nonna's dire warnings, they unwittingly free the seven princes from hell. After Emilia finds Vittoria's murdered body, heart torn out, a decade later, the grief-stricken girl inadvertently summons one of the Malvagi: the Prince of Wrath. Together, the mortal enemies work to solve the murders of several streghe killed on Sicily. Lyrical writing and an immersive atmosphere accompany a well-built world rooted in 19th-century Palermo, especially evocative descriptions of food prepared in the family's restaurant, while intriguing plot twists round off the novel. Ages 14–up. Agent: Barbara Poelle, Irene Goodman Literary. (Oct.)

Gr 8 Up—Emilia and Vittoria are twin witches living among humans. They possess a power that they don't speak of to anyone and learn early that there are seven demon princes, four of whom should be feared: Wrath, Greed, Envy, and Pride. These demons search for souls to steal for the devil. One evening Vittoria goes missing and Emilia discovers that she has been murdered. Emilia seeks revenge and commits to finding the murderer using all of her resources, regardless of the cost. While seeking vengeance she meets Wrath, who claims to be on her side and is also looking for a serial murderer. She must learn who to trust using magic and her wits while not being discovered as a witch. The interactions among the characters build a tale of suspicion and mystery. Maniscalco's writing is graceful and leaves plenty of anticipation for the next book in the series. Taking place in Sicily, Italy, the twins and family are Sicilians—some of whom possess magic and some who do not. VERDICT Fantasy, magic, devils, a murder mystery, shapeshifters, and the beginning of a series will make this book a new favorite for many.—Karen Alexander, Lake Fenton H.S., Linden, MI