Emilia and Vittoria di Carlo are twin sisters and streghe (the Italian word for “witches”) living in Palermo, Sicily during the late 1800s. On the night of their eighth birthday, a storm is raging. Their grandmother, Nonna Maria, guides the twins in casting protection charms against the Malvagi, or the Wicked, who are “the seven ruling princes of Hell” (2). The Wicked practice the dark arts, magical practices that incur negative forces. According to Nonna Maria, the Wicked were banished to Hell by La Prima Strega (Italian for “the First Witch”) long ago, and if the Wicked ever return to the human realm, an ancient prophecy involving Emilia and Vittoria will unfold. 

Emilia and Vittoria each wear cornicello protection amulets that are shaped like small horns. Even though Nonna insists that the amulets never come in contact with each other, the twins secretly break Nonna’s instructions a month after their eighth birthday. Though the amulets do not physically touch, Emilia begins to see lucciare (Italian for “shimmer”), or auras.

Emilia and Vittoria are now 18 years old. They often work in their family restaurant, Sea & Vine. Emilia is passionate about food, hoping to one day operate the family restaurant with her own innovative menu; Vittoria, however, is not interested in this lifestyle.