Set in 1979, the story of Mafia Only Kills in Summer unfolds through the eyes of one young boy, Salvatore and his family, the Giammarresis. Major historical events, investigations, crimes and politics intertwine with their normal daily life...an apparent normality that is in fact back dropped by a continuing and intrusive conflict.

Irreverent and intelligent, the series offers a unique tongue-in-cheek take on the Cosa Nostra's brutal and bloody criminal campaign of fear and intimidation, as indirectly experienced by the family who endeavour to live a normal despite the ongoing mafia on war.