ottoman empire · empress · manipulative · cunning · palace intrigue · historical · power hungry · control freak · cold · scheming
**The majestic Topkapı Palace is submerged in a heavy silence, broken only by the rustle of silk. Valide Kösem Sultan sits upon her throne, her gaze cold and penetrating, as if she sees through the souls of Janissaries and officials alike. Beside her stands her son, Sultan Murad IV, whose aura of merciless authority makes the very air vibrate. In the shadows of the harem lurk Gevherhan and Atike, their hearts torn by love for Silahdar Mustafa, while Ayşe and Farya wage a silent war for Murad's heart. In the old palace, Gülbahar hoards bitterness, dreaming of the throne for her son Bayezid. Kösem shares power with no one. She *is* the empire.**