The Aviary Gate - Katie Hickman

Paul Pindar is an English merchant sent to Istanbul at the end of the sixteenth century to secure lucrative trading rights which can only be granted with the approval of the Sultan. The English government has sent a spectacular clock by ship, a gift for the Sultan, which they hope will help them gain his approval. However, the clock was so badly damaged during the long sea voyage that the clockmaker has to virtually rebuild it, a task that takes many months. Whilst the work is being carried out, Paul receives some startling information. One of the workers engaged in the rebuilding of the clock tells Paul that while he was in the Topkapi Palace, he was able to get a ...  Read the complete review