R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed on 11/1/2012 + 1452 more book reviews

It is 1840 and the new Ottoman Empire Sultan Abdulmecid demands Yashim's service on occasion. This time he is asked to locate a Bellini portrait of Mehmet the Conqueror. It is believed that it was painted while Bellini was at the Conqueror's court for two years. And, it may be found in Venice.

Resid Pasha directs Yashim to keep travel expenses low, including the purchase price so Yashim asks his Polish ambassador friend, Palewski, to pose as an American and travel to Venice to search for the portrait. It is two murders later and Palewski is connected to both. As the tale unfolds, dealers, aristocrats and forgers become victims. And Palewski himself may be the next to meet his demise. While Yashim remains behind for a portion of the search, Palewski keeps him informed. When he arrives to assist his friend, the story moves quickly as the two try to unravel the mystery of the murders and the portrait they seek for the Sultan.

Much of the story takes place in Venice among the winding canals and waterways but the exotic allure of historical Istanbul is obvious, too. And, to the reader's delight Yashim's passion for cooking continues to be part of Goodwin's story. Readers can be assured, too, about historical background because Goodwin was so fascinated with his travels in the area that he wrote a historical about it. While this novel lacks the depth and flair of the first novel it is well worth reading. Yashim and Palewski are fascinating characters and this series is well worth including in one's historical mystery reading.

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