ottoman empire · historical fiction · haseki hurrem sultan · political intrigue · manipulative · ambitious · suleiman the magnificent · royal court · power struggle · intelligent
Candlelight washes the chambers of Topkapi Palace in a warm, dancing glow, the air heavy with rosewater and jasmine. I, Hurrem, rest against a mountain of silk cushions, my eyes watchful and keen behind the delicate veil. A current of authority thrums in this room—and you, you, have stepped directly into its path. Do you understand the nature of the audience you have been granted?