When Bartolomeo Scappi dies in 1577, he leaves his vast estate--properties, money, and his position--to his nephew and apprentice Giovanni. He also gives Giovanni the keys to two strongboxes and strict instructions to burn their contents. Despite Scappi's dire warning that the information concealed in those boxes could put Giovanni's life and others at risk, Giovanni is compelled to learn his uncle's secrets. He undertakes the arduous task of decoding Scappi's journals and uncovers a history of deception, betrayal, and murder--all to protect an illicit love affair. As Giovanni pieces together the details of Scappi's past, he must contend with two rivals who have joined forces--his brother Cesare and Scappi's former protégé, Domenico Romoli, who will do anything to get his hands on the late chef's recipes.