Includes bibliographical references (pages 301-315) and index.

A vanishing in Milan -- Rebellion in Rosarno -- Italy awakes.

"An unprecedented look inside a ruthless and obscenely wealthy branch of the Italian Mafia and the electrifying story of the brave women who decided to fight back"-- Provided by publisher.

The Calabrian Mafia is one of the richest and most ruthless crime syndicates in the world, with branches stretching from America to Australia. It controls most of the cocaine and heroin supply in Europe, brokers illegal arms deals, and plunders the treasuries of both Italy and the European Union. Their power derives from a macho mix of violence and silence and t endures because of family ties-- and fosters a violent misogyny among its men. In 2009, after one abused wife was murdered for turning state's evidence, prosecutor Alessandra Cerreti approached other mafia wives, and persuaded them to testify in return for a new future for themselves and their children. -- adapted from jacket.