Received as a BookMooch.

As the title suggests this is the second in the series of historical mysteries featuring Yashim the Eunuch which again takes place in 1830's Istanbul. Yashim has remarkable social skills which allow him to glide easily through all the various levels of Istanbul society. The incumbent Sultan is on his death bed so Yashim's authority is a little diminished yet he is still able to mix freely with members of the Royal household, ambassadors and the local market stall holders equally.

Goodwin has managed to develop a large and varied cast of characters the vast percentage of them appear to be schemers of one sort or another trying to outflank one another. Questions of national identity figure prominently. Yet Yashim seems able to sail serenely above it all, his essential humanity shines out like a beacon. He is a man of many talents whether cooking, chatting or questioning suspects, he is a detective with a difference making this series a generally appealing read.

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