Bit of historical and cultural detail. Some strong female characters. More sex & violence than I prefer. It is leaning even more towards "spy" novel , rather than mystery. I prefer the Jason Godwin ones for my ottoman fix ( )

Set in 19th century Turkey during Ottoman empire's political unrest. My review in BL, rumors of rebellion, massacre, threats against Kamil's family. Good tension between self-preservation and ethical behavior fro several characters. Well-rounded characters realistic, compelling yet thoroughly depraved villain, good details lend immediacy and a good feel for exotic locale. Tense Atmosphere, good story. ( )

I very much enjoyed this book = the story is something to become immersed in, I like Kamil Pasha as a character, and I am learning something about 19th Century Turkey. ( )

The Winter Thief appears to be the third book about Istanbul's special prosecutor Kamil Pasha in the waning days of the Ottoman Empire. His investigation of arms smuggling and the bombing of the Imperial Ottoman Bank lead to his being framed for murder and accused of treason as he works to prevent a massacre of possible secessionists. I found the descriptions of the culture to be quite compelling and Kamil Pasha as a character to be quite interesting. I would not mind at all seeking out the first two Kamil Pasha novels or any that follow this one.

At first it was all intrigue -- how intriguing! Then it just got bloodier and bloodier, and had about four endings, shades of "Lord of the Rings." ( )