This mystery set in Istanbul's poor Jewish quarter is full of intrigue and unsolved mysteries beyond the initial murder that sets off an investigation by Inspector Cetin Ikmen. While investigating the murder, Inspector Ikmen is also dealing with a strict Muslim wife (who disapproves of his drinking), his retired professor father who lives with them, and his eight children -- with another due very soon!
Inspector Ikmen's investigation leads him and his staff to an English-language teacher with some secrets of his own, a half-German businessman known to be a Nazi sympathizer, and a ninety-year-old Russian emigre and her rather unconventional family who also have secrets to hide. As Ikmen methodically pursues a killer, the investigation also divulges secrets as well as connections among these diverse and colorful characters and involves more murder and danger along the way.
Although Barbara Nadel was born in England, she has been a regular vistor to Turkey for more than twenty years. This is her first novel and the fact that it was published by Thomas Dunne books impressed me. (Thomas Dunne is the only publisher who was willing to publish Joe Haldeman's science fiction book, "The Forever War," so soon after the Vietnam War.)
The characters in Nadel's book are well developed and interesting and the plot kept me guessing throughout. I will read more of her books in the future.
pazt
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