Alice B. reviewed on + 3563 more book reviews
To support her impoverished family, 12-year-old Leyla sells herself to Ottoman marriage brokers passing through her native Caucasus Mountains, but she quickly learns that she has been purchased to be a slave, not a bride. At auction, lucky coincidences land her in the Grand Harem of the Padishah, where she becomes a skilled gardener and artist--talents that lead to rare opportunities and friendships. Leyla's voice evokes the physical beauty of life in "the Golden Cage" with engaging detail, but like Leyla, readers will find themselves amazed by the more "adult" aspects of harem life (such as the eunuchs). Many of the plot twists are quite interesting. Yet, the opulent setting, gripping survival story, and the chaste romance with a handsome, benevolent prince have the power to draw in an audience.
