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The Sultan's Wife
1677. In Europe, the Enlightenment is dawning after a century of wars. On the seas and in coastal villages, pirates and corsairs are the scourge of the waves. And in Morocco, Sultan Moulay Ismail is concentrating his power, building an elaborate palace complex with captive labor.
Alys Swann is also a captive, but hers is a different convert to Islam, marry the sultan and give him sons. Or die. Nus-Nus, the sultan’s scribe and keeper of the royal couching book, is charged with convincing Alys to accept her fate. Or they both die. Two powerless prisoners in a world of brutal intrigue, each discovers that they can take strength in the other, to endure that which must be endured in the hope of a better tomorrow.
Rich in detail with compelling characters and an ambitious scope, The Sultan’s Wife is a remarkable tale of adventure, romance, history, and friendship.
Alys Swann is also a captive, but hers is a different convert to Islam, marry the sultan and give him sons. Or die. Nus-Nus, the sultan’s scribe and keeper of the royal couching book, is charged with convincing Alys to accept her fate. Or they both die. Two powerless prisoners in a world of brutal intrigue, each discovers that they can take strength in the other, to endure that which must be endured in the hope of a better tomorrow.
Rich in detail with compelling characters and an ambitious scope, The Sultan’s Wife is a remarkable tale of adventure, romance, history, and friendship.
384 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2012
138 people are currently reading
2187 people want to read
About the author
Jane Johnson
103 books553 followersJane Johnson is an English writer of books for adults and children and fiction book editor. As a writer she has used the pseudonyms Gabriel King, jointly with M. John Harrison, and Jude Fisher, as well as her real name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
May 21, 2025
It has to be said that this book contains rather more about eunuchs and the process of creating them than I ever wanted to know. Legs were crossed!
That said, this is a great read. The setting (Morocco in the 1670s) is excellently realised and a trip to London in the book makes for interesting comparison. There may be a romance of sorts lurking at the bottom of this book and I am not a fan of romances, but this is not that kind of a tale. For every stolen touch there are at least two political intrigues, three medieval tortures, and four knife fights.
Johnson has all the writing bases covered - great description, pacing, etc and a special touch with character, making them subtle and very human. the combination of first person POVs and present tense works so well I want to steal the approach.
Typed with fat fingers on an iPad.
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That said, this is a great read. The setting (Morocco in the 1670s) is excellently realised and a trip to London in the book makes for interesting comparison. There may be a romance of sorts lurking at the bottom of this book and I am not a fan of romances, but this is not that kind of a tale. For every stolen touch there are at least two political intrigues, three medieval tortures, and four knife fights.
Johnson has all the writing bases covered - great description, pacing, etc and a special touch with character, making them subtle and very human. the combination of first person POVs and present tense works so well I want to steal the approach.
Typed with fat fingers on an iPad.
Join my Patreon
Join my 3-emails-a-year newsletter #prizes
...
August 23, 2021
Jane Johnson’s The Sultan's Wife is a sweeping and phenomenal tale of love in the historical era of 17th century Morocco.
Almost a year back, I read The Sea Gate by the same author and was enthralled by it so much that I jumped when offered a chance to read this wonderful book. The Sultan’s Wife is by no means an easy tale. The scale is ambitious and knowing the bio of the author, one shouldn’t expect anything less. She brings life to Morocco of the 17th century and I do mean that literally. The cacophony of sounds, the miasma of the markets, the lavish palace with its danger, a megalomaniacal emperor, the harem with its chittering females, every single detail has been narrated in a beautiful canvas. Like a movie production scaled up to gargantuan proportions, the story is a journey to be taken at leisure as is clearly evident with the intricate tapestry woven with the detailed historical facts.
The love story between Nus-Nus, a eunuch slave in the court of Sultan Moulay Ismail, and Alys, a white woman sold to slavery is honestly very subtle. In fact, I did wish for a stronger romantic flavor in the voice of Alys as their interactions are kept mild probably reminding the reader of the danger that lurks around the corner but without it, the ending seems like something out of a fairy tale with all bows tied neatly.
But the predominant element of the tale is the life of Nus-Nus, the abuse that robs him of his manhood, how each day is a war by itself with an emperor who has no qualms in severing the throat of anyone for any perceived fault, be it a loyal servant or the grand vizier himself. The kind of dual personality King Ismail exhibits is startling, as he can kick you with his boot and then wipe the dust on your clothes the very next instant so there’s no moment of respite for Nus-Nus and the reader. The stark cruelty depicted in the story; in the politics being played in the harem as well as in the court among its many members, in the tortures dished out regularly, in the poisonous drama that enfolds form the Sultan’s first wife Zidana, in the abuse of young girls, there’s so much that causes turmoil in the minds of a reader but that is how it has been, history has always been bloody.
From Sultan Ismail’s court in Morocco to King Charles’s palace in London, with plague and wars dogging their heels, with few interesting historical figures that I was glad to read about, Nus-Nus is forced to play a game filled with peril and danger to keep the light burning for the reason of his existence.
Majestic beyond words ☔☔☔☔☔
With thanks to Net Galley, Zeus Publications, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. Please note that all my reviews are honest and unbiased, voluntarily given, and in no way affected by any external factors.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Bookbub, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter.
Almost a year back, I read The Sea Gate by the same author and was enthralled by it so much that I jumped when offered a chance to read this wonderful book. The Sultan’s Wife is by no means an easy tale. The scale is ambitious and knowing the bio of the author, one shouldn’t expect anything less. She brings life to Morocco of the 17th century and I do mean that literally. The cacophony of sounds, the miasma of the markets, the lavish palace with its danger, a megalomaniacal emperor, the harem with its chittering females, every single detail has been narrated in a beautiful canvas. Like a movie production scaled up to gargantuan proportions, the story is a journey to be taken at leisure as is clearly evident with the intricate tapestry woven with the detailed historical facts.
The love story between Nus-Nus, a eunuch slave in the court of Sultan Moulay Ismail, and Alys, a white woman sold to slavery is honestly very subtle. In fact, I did wish for a stronger romantic flavor in the voice of Alys as their interactions are kept mild probably reminding the reader of the danger that lurks around the corner but without it, the ending seems like something out of a fairy tale with all bows tied neatly.
But the predominant element of the tale is the life of Nus-Nus, the abuse that robs him of his manhood, how each day is a war by itself with an emperor who has no qualms in severing the throat of anyone for any perceived fault, be it a loyal servant or the grand vizier himself. The kind of dual personality King Ismail exhibits is startling, as he can kick you with his boot and then wipe the dust on your clothes the very next instant so there’s no moment of respite for Nus-Nus and the reader. The stark cruelty depicted in the story; in the politics being played in the harem as well as in the court among its many members, in the tortures dished out regularly, in the poisonous drama that enfolds form the Sultan’s first wife Zidana, in the abuse of young girls, there’s so much that causes turmoil in the minds of a reader but that is how it has been, history has always been bloody.
From Sultan Ismail’s court in Morocco to King Charles’s palace in London, with plague and wars dogging their heels, with few interesting historical figures that I was glad to read about, Nus-Nus is forced to play a game filled with peril and danger to keep the light burning for the reason of his existence.
Majestic beyond words ☔☔☔☔☔
With thanks to Net Galley, Zeus Publications, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. Please note that all my reviews are honest and unbiased, voluntarily given, and in no way affected by any external factors.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Bookbub, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter.
March 28, 2014
This book is a MUST READ.
I was exhilarated by this glorious love story.
It opens in Morocco, then carries us right across Europe to the court of King Charles II, where the main character, Nus-Nus, collides with famous English luminaries of the time, including... well, no spoilers, I'll leave that to your imagination and discovery.
Apart from the beautiful writing craft and the page-turning narrative, it exhibits great depth of authenticity, demonstrating the power of drawing on personal experience.
It's very clear that English born author, Jane Johnson, not only adores her subject material but has lovingly researched it. On looking into her background, I've learned that she is married to a real Berber Tribesman and knows Morocco well, having spent months in situ. She even rode camel trains across the Sahara to experience the simple rhythms of daily life in the desert. I could smell the exotic fragrances, hear the cacophony of the Moroccan markets, feel the violent clash of war and excruciating pain of the vanquished, the loneliness of the endless dunes, the heat of the sun, and amidst it all, the tenderness of love.
And then there's the emotional core: She has it nailed. Most characters gradually disappear from the mind after a few months. But Nus-Nus has stayed with me, and my hope is that Jane Johnson will bring him back for another story.
This book could well be made into a movie. It certainly has the required quotient of passion. But in essence, the story simply held me spellbound, a gripping narrative that kept me reading until the light of dawn crept into my room as I finally turned the last page.
I was exhilarated by this glorious love story.
It opens in Morocco, then carries us right across Europe to the court of King Charles II, where the main character, Nus-Nus, collides with famous English luminaries of the time, including... well, no spoilers, I'll leave that to your imagination and discovery.
Apart from the beautiful writing craft and the page-turning narrative, it exhibits great depth of authenticity, demonstrating the power of drawing on personal experience.
It's very clear that English born author, Jane Johnson, not only adores her subject material but has lovingly researched it. On looking into her background, I've learned that she is married to a real Berber Tribesman and knows Morocco well, having spent months in situ. She even rode camel trains across the Sahara to experience the simple rhythms of daily life in the desert. I could smell the exotic fragrances, hear the cacophony of the Moroccan markets, feel the violent clash of war and excruciating pain of the vanquished, the loneliness of the endless dunes, the heat of the sun, and amidst it all, the tenderness of love.
And then there's the emotional core: She has it nailed. Most characters gradually disappear from the mind after a few months. But Nus-Nus has stayed with me, and my hope is that Jane Johnson will bring him back for another story.
This book could well be made into a movie. It certainly has the required quotient of passion. But in essence, the story simply held me spellbound, a gripping narrative that kept me reading until the light of dawn crept into my room as I finally turned the last page.
May 21, 2017
I believe that I will have to state that I have a love/hate relationship with this book. I read the first three chapters and wasn't sure that I cared for the main narrator, a eunuch known as Nus-Nus. However, I kept on with it and it turned really interesting in part two. A young woman, Alys, is on her way to be married when she is captured and sent to live in Morocco as a part of the Sultan's harem. Alys, soon becomes the second wife and is forced to convert to Islam. Of course, the first wife doesn't take kindly to her rival who captures the heart of the sultan and is referred to as "The White Swan." Alys finds a way to survive and a blossoming friendship that gradually leads to a romance between her and Nus-Nus. Sounds exciting, right?
Unfortunately, the story then turns back to Nus-Nus and other details of court life that are just not that exciting. So, it lagged for a bit and then picked up and ended up with Nus-Nus travelling to England where the story becomes boring again and finally a rather strange happy ending.
I do have to point out that the research behind the story is quite interesting and Jane Johnson makes the England and Morocco of yesterday leap to life among the pages. Despite the fact that Alys and Nus-Nus are entirely fictional, Johnson's characterizations are fantastic. I just feel very strongly that I was promised to be "wow'd" and I wasn't.
Unfortunately, the story then turns back to Nus-Nus and other details of court life that are just not that exciting. So, it lagged for a bit and then picked up and ended up with Nus-Nus travelling to England where the story becomes boring again and finally a rather strange happy ending.
I do have to point out that the research behind the story is quite interesting and Jane Johnson makes the England and Morocco of yesterday leap to life among the pages. Despite the fact that Alys and Nus-Nus are entirely fictional, Johnson's characterizations are fantastic. I just feel very strongly that I was promised to be "wow'd" and I wasn't.
October 24, 2015
I devoured The Sultan's Wife in four days, which given what a slow reader I am and how every book normally takes me about three-four weeks, must be some kind of personal record. In fact I could hardly put it down. It's absolutely brilliant, Jane Johnson is an amazing storyteller and if you like the sound of a dark, gripping Arabian tale set in the 17th century, I very highly recommend that you give it a go!
March 18, 2016
Superb roman. O să mă bântuie o perioadă.
January 4, 2020
This is historical fiction set in 1677 Morocco at the time of one of the most tyrannical rulers in history: Sultan Moulay Ishmael. I know nothing about Morocco or its history and so this was a fantastic peek into it.
Nus Nus is a eunuch of the court of the Sultan, being based as most eunuchs are, in a position to oversee the harem of women kept by the sultan. Nus Nus serves his sultan as well as his chief wife in their plots and schemes.
The sultan always had about 500 women in his harem at a time and is estimated to have spawned approximately 1000 children, the most of any man in history. He was also known for his violence and capriciousness. What a fascinating character.
Nus Nus always does his duties well until a white woman named Alys Swan is kidnapped whilst at sea and given to the sultan by her captors and brought to the harem. Nus Nus is enamored with her, who they call the White Swan.
Nus Nus fears for Alys's life as well as his own. Can they escape their lives under the sultans rule?
Really enjoyed this book. Highly recommended to lovers of historical fiction.
Nus Nus is a eunuch of the court of the Sultan, being based as most eunuchs are, in a position to oversee the harem of women kept by the sultan. Nus Nus serves his sultan as well as his chief wife in their plots and schemes.
The sultan always had about 500 women in his harem at a time and is estimated to have spawned approximately 1000 children, the most of any man in history. He was also known for his violence and capriciousness. What a fascinating character.
Nus Nus always does his duties well until a white woman named Alys Swan is kidnapped whilst at sea and given to the sultan by her captors and brought to the harem. Nus Nus is enamored with her, who they call the White Swan.
Nus Nus fears for Alys's life as well as his own. Can they escape their lives under the sultans rule?
Really enjoyed this book. Highly recommended to lovers of historical fiction.
February 6, 2017
Ένα ιστορικό μυθιστόρημα που συγκλονίζει: αυτό είναι «Η γυναίκα του σουλτάνου». Συνεχείς ανατροπές, δολοπλοκίες, ίντριγκες, πάθη, θρησκοληψία, μαύρη μαγεία... Μαρόκο του 17ου αιώνα. Περισσότερα εδώ!!
June 22, 2012
BOOK WON THROUGH GOODREADS FIRST READS
Let me start by saying I could hardly put the book down. It is so beautifully written and in a way that makes it really easy and enjoyable. I'm not used to the setting in the book (Morocco) and that only made it better for me since it made me discovered an entirely different culture.
As for the story itself, it is packed with action. That is the only "negative" side to it, because I thought at times there was just too much going on, and the actions were sometimes too short I think for their importance. But at the same time, I liked that it was so quick because I never got bored reading it, ever.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a little action and wishes to be transported into 17th century Morocco.
Now I'm off to find Jane Johnson's other books.
Let me start by saying I could hardly put the book down. It is so beautifully written and in a way that makes it really easy and enjoyable. I'm not used to the setting in the book (Morocco) and that only made it better for me since it made me discovered an entirely different culture.
As for the story itself, it is packed with action. That is the only "negative" side to it, because I thought at times there was just too much going on, and the actions were sometimes too short I think for their importance. But at the same time, I liked that it was so quick because I never got bored reading it, ever.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a little action and wishes to be transported into 17th century Morocco.
Now I'm off to find Jane Johnson's other books.
July 20, 2012
I was hoping this book would be better, after reading all the glowing reviews. I did get some enjoyment from it, but, for me, the writing was somewhat simplistic and lacking finesse, also there were grammatical errors and anachronisms of language - very modern words and phrases used by people who were supposed to be living in the 17th century. It read something like a fairytale with a "they all lived happily ever after" ending. Left me feeling like I need to read some really decent literature.
December 23, 2012
I enjoyed this novel a great deal and although I'm not usually drawn to fiction but when I do find myself reading, I get a little too carried away with my emotions. This book drew three major reactions from me; I LOLed, I gasped, I was sad to a point I didn't want to finish the book, but it all came to a pleasing end.
So again, I'm looking at this mysterious book cover only this time it was literally staring back (see that eye on the cover?) and I’m just wondering what it was that I was going to find out about this Sultan's wife that I couldn't already guess. Well … surprisingly, and slightly misleadingly, it is and isn't much about her.
The main character in this story, also the main narrator, is a charming servant called Nus Nus, whom the story would seem lifeless without. The author characterizes him as a smart, caring, and humorous slave whose luck is on his side as he constantly cheats random gruesome fates. Through Nus Nus, we are introduced to the second narrator, the Sultan's wife, Alys, whom this book is based on. The story starts out with an ordinary day in a life of a palace servant who witnesses a death, but by the next few chapters the plot escalates to exciting encounters that lead to the transformation of this insignificant servant into a warrior who saves the day. And there’s much saving to do; the Sultan is a blood thirsty, yet charismatic warrior who is responsible for both the narrators’ woes.
This piece of adult fiction is structured as personal diary entries written by each of the narrators, which makes it all the more interesting getting to know two different perspectives of both characters around the same situation. The diary or chapter titles are sometimes written down as important dates that further elaborate on 17th century Morocco under the Sultan’s rule and help keep up with the constant moving time. The story is conceived around the historical event that took place in 1682 when Sultan Moulay Ismail sent off the Moroccan embassy to England to meet with King Charles II. There are many old Arabic words and Islamic references that communicate the era when Islam was on the rise, but fear not Western reader, the author dedicates a two-page glossary for these words. The author, Jane Johnson, is well versed in Moroccan culture from many years residing in the country, which she also uses to her benefit as a major topic in some of her previous work.
Aside from all the killings, injustices, slavery, and other atrocious events that take place, the tone is light with a touch of dark humor that at times makes of a less serious tragedy but adds to the reality of a slave mocking himself and his master as he faces the most awkward and dangerous situations. The novel is a modern fairytale where things don’t go as planned but the ending is emotionally rewarding.
Oh! … And you will fall in love with Nus Nus!
So again, I'm looking at this mysterious book cover only this time it was literally staring back (see that eye on the cover?) and I’m just wondering what it was that I was going to find out about this Sultan's wife that I couldn't already guess. Well … surprisingly, and slightly misleadingly, it is and isn't much about her.
The main character in this story, also the main narrator, is a charming servant called Nus Nus, whom the story would seem lifeless without. The author characterizes him as a smart, caring, and humorous slave whose luck is on his side as he constantly cheats random gruesome fates. Through Nus Nus, we are introduced to the second narrator, the Sultan's wife, Alys, whom this book is based on. The story starts out with an ordinary day in a life of a palace servant who witnesses a death, but by the next few chapters the plot escalates to exciting encounters that lead to the transformation of this insignificant servant into a warrior who saves the day. And there’s much saving to do; the Sultan is a blood thirsty, yet charismatic warrior who is responsible for both the narrators’ woes.
This piece of adult fiction is structured as personal diary entries written by each of the narrators, which makes it all the more interesting getting to know two different perspectives of both characters around the same situation. The diary or chapter titles are sometimes written down as important dates that further elaborate on 17th century Morocco under the Sultan’s rule and help keep up with the constant moving time. The story is conceived around the historical event that took place in 1682 when Sultan Moulay Ismail sent off the Moroccan embassy to England to meet with King Charles II. There are many old Arabic words and Islamic references that communicate the era when Islam was on the rise, but fear not Western reader, the author dedicates a two-page glossary for these words. The author, Jane Johnson, is well versed in Moroccan culture from many years residing in the country, which she also uses to her benefit as a major topic in some of her previous work.
Aside from all the killings, injustices, slavery, and other atrocious events that take place, the tone is light with a touch of dark humor that at times makes of a less serious tragedy but adds to the reality of a slave mocking himself and his master as he faces the most awkward and dangerous situations. The novel is a modern fairytale where things don’t go as planned but the ending is emotionally rewarding.
Oh! … And you will fall in love with Nus Nus!
January 25, 2013
First off, what a fascinating life-story Jane Johnson has! As someone who splits her time between living in England and Africa, it's really no wonder that she can incorporate both culture and history so intelligently into her writing.
Imagine any of the Arabian Tales, full of contrary rulers and their dark jealousies, of protracted punishment and treachery, and that is essentially what you will find in The Sultan's Wife. The protagonist is Nus-Nus, who tells the story in the first person and who is characterised deeply and attractively. While he is probably too nice to be deemed a fully realistic character, as a black slave in a Court where heads roll left, right and centre, I doubt that he would have lived to see Chapter Two had he been even slightly flawed. The Englishwoman imprisoned within the Sultan's harem, Alys Swann, occasionally takes the narrative over, but she doesn't turn out to be the strong-voiced and defiant heroine that I had been expecting. But I like that. I like that there is such a contrast between hers and Nus-Nus' perspectives.
The narrative is wonderfully written. It's evocative, emotive, and skilfully captures the atmospheres of Morocco and Seventeenth Century London naturalistically. It's also funny at times. Momentum is maintained throughout by the author's incredibly high register of vocabulary, and the dialogue - the quibbles, flirtations and malicous exchanges - is so engaging that it was the highlight of the novel for me.
I suppose that the ending was all tied up a little too neatly and conveniently, but after 350 pages of castration, slavery and head-impaling I don't blame the author in the slightest.
Imagine any of the Arabian Tales, full of contrary rulers and their dark jealousies, of protracted punishment and treachery, and that is essentially what you will find in The Sultan's Wife. The protagonist is Nus-Nus, who tells the story in the first person and who is characterised deeply and attractively. While he is probably too nice to be deemed a fully realistic character, as a black slave in a Court where heads roll left, right and centre, I doubt that he would have lived to see Chapter Two had he been even slightly flawed. The Englishwoman imprisoned within the Sultan's harem, Alys Swann, occasionally takes the narrative over, but she doesn't turn out to be the strong-voiced and defiant heroine that I had been expecting. But I like that. I like that there is such a contrast between hers and Nus-Nus' perspectives.
The narrative is wonderfully written. It's evocative, emotive, and skilfully captures the atmospheres of Morocco and Seventeenth Century London naturalistically. It's also funny at times. Momentum is maintained throughout by the author's incredibly high register of vocabulary, and the dialogue - the quibbles, flirtations and malicous exchanges - is so engaging that it was the highlight of the novel for me.
I suppose that the ending was all tied up a little too neatly and conveniently, but after 350 pages of castration, slavery and head-impaling I don't blame the author in the slightest.
January 22, 2014
The characters were one dimensional and the story line was highly implausible bordering on the ridiculous including its happy ending. The main character, a eunuch slave working for the sultan of Morocco who falls in love with one of the harem's English concubines, survives so many potential deaths you'd think he sold his soul to the devil. The novel is quite readable though and it really picks about 2/3s of the way through. You can tell that that author did a reasonable amount of research on the topic but i cannot help but feel that she was satisfying some personal fantasy of the damsel Englishwoman being rescued by the tall dark handsome African. If you enjoy a light read about exotic places this book is for you.
August 20, 2017
#NadirasPointOfReview: The Sultan's Wife by Jane Johnson.
📚The story is set in #Morocco, during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the Year 1677.The novel takes you from Morocco to #England and revolves around Nus-Nus (the African eunuch slave and Sultan’s scribe) and Alys Swann (an Englishwoman who was taken as a prisoner and kept as a concubine in the Sultan’s harem). These two form an unlikely alliance to survive the Sultan – one of the tyrannical ruler in history.
📚Pros: Jane Johnson writes beautifully! The story flows so fluidly and every single chapter ends with an intriguing punchline that keeps the reader riveted to find out what happens next. The story itself though fictional is certainly realistic and vivid, as it is also based on the real king and a lot of details are factual, as mentioned in the last pages. Some very interesting details are there, such as how the Sultan was known to have had a 1000 concubines in his harem and fathered 800 children! There’s an unlikely love story here which blossoms amidst so much tyranny. The sultan is certainly mad with power and you feel the helplessness of his subordinates. The character of Nus-Nus is really heartwarming and his chapters were surely the best.
📚Cons: Though the essence of the historical circumstances were well-researched and conveyed by the author, there clearly were more than three places where she quoted Islam downright incorrectly. An author needs to realize how he/she is contributing in influencing its readers just like every other source of media is. Every drop makes an ocean, so everyone needs to play their role in life responsibly. The story also dragged for 100 or so pages. The title of the book is very misleading. The story 1stly revolves mainly around Nus-Nus and hardly about Alyss. 2ndly, she isn’t even the Sultan’s wife.
📚My Rating: 3.5-4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐Stars. .
📚The story is set in #Morocco, during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the Year 1677.The novel takes you from Morocco to #England and revolves around Nus-Nus (the African eunuch slave and Sultan’s scribe) and Alys Swann (an Englishwoman who was taken as a prisoner and kept as a concubine in the Sultan’s harem). These two form an unlikely alliance to survive the Sultan – one of the tyrannical ruler in history.
📚Pros: Jane Johnson writes beautifully! The story flows so fluidly and every single chapter ends with an intriguing punchline that keeps the reader riveted to find out what happens next. The story itself though fictional is certainly realistic and vivid, as it is also based on the real king and a lot of details are factual, as mentioned in the last pages. Some very interesting details are there, such as how the Sultan was known to have had a 1000 concubines in his harem and fathered 800 children! There’s an unlikely love story here which blossoms amidst so much tyranny. The sultan is certainly mad with power and you feel the helplessness of his subordinates. The character of Nus-Nus is really heartwarming and his chapters were surely the best.
📚Cons: Though the essence of the historical circumstances were well-researched and conveyed by the author, there clearly were more than three places where she quoted Islam downright incorrectly. An author needs to realize how he/she is contributing in influencing its readers just like every other source of media is. Every drop makes an ocean, so everyone needs to play their role in life responsibly. The story also dragged for 100 or so pages. The title of the book is very misleading. The story 1stly revolves mainly around Nus-Nus and hardly about Alyss. 2ndly, she isn’t even the Sultan’s wife.
📚My Rating: 3.5-4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐Stars. .
July 25, 2018
I just felt that the story was overwritten at times unlike the end when everything happened all at once and miracoulosly (is it really a surprise?)
Not to mention that I guessed that major
I was buddy reading it with Nadz and we both agreed that we liked Nus-Nus parts more than Alys's.
If you pick this book up you'll see why.
I am usually a fast reader but it took me forever (for me, meaning 3 days) to read this book (under 400 pages!). It wasn't bad, it was just...not enticing. Not my cup of tea if you want. I liked the history background, I literally screamed at the mention of Robert Hooke! professional deformity.
I have much more to say about this book and its characters but that could be a huge spoil for some of you, you who can't stand spoilers, so I'm gonna stop myself now so you don't kill me lol.
May 26, 2014
The Sultan's Wife is beautifully written. You feel compassion for the slavery parts. You will be able to drink in all the atmosphere. You will be able to smell the amber, pine & musk scent's. You can feel upon your feet the jewelled slippers they wear. All the characters are skilfully mapped out. A very nice rich read. You can buy this book on penguin book site.
January 28, 2018
This book started off with real possibilities but the second half dragged along and I lost interest ...forced myself to finish it.
April 29, 2012
I received this book through GoodReads First Reads.. a huge 'thank you' to Random House of Canada! :)
What an awesome read!! At a hundred and sixty something pages, you wouldn't think it would start of SO interesting!...but it does and continues at that pace. I couldn't get my nose out of it.
This is a historical-fiction taking place in Morocco. There is a lot I really enjoyed about this novel. The story line is very interesting, the characters are fascinating, the real names are used for most of the characters, and it's very well written.
Usually I prefer NOT to read fictional books with anything associated with Islam, you'd be surprised how many ignorant authors are out there. I do however LOVE how Jane wrote this. There is a distinction between the religion and the people. Most wouldn't care about this, but it has made a huge impact on how much I like the book, and what I think of the author.
I'm so happy I had a chance to read this. Not only was the book super engrossing, I now have a new author to add to my favorites list and definitely look forward to reading more of her work.
What an awesome read!! At a hundred and sixty something pages, you wouldn't think it would start of SO interesting!...but it does and continues at that pace. I couldn't get my nose out of it.
This is a historical-fiction taking place in Morocco. There is a lot I really enjoyed about this novel. The story line is very interesting, the characters are fascinating, the real names are used for most of the characters, and it's very well written.
Usually I prefer NOT to read fictional books with anything associated with Islam, you'd be surprised how many ignorant authors are out there. I do however LOVE how Jane wrote this. There is a distinction between the religion and the people. Most wouldn't care about this, but it has made a huge impact on how much I like the book, and what I think of the author.
I'm so happy I had a chance to read this. Not only was the book super engrossing, I now have a new author to add to my favorites list and definitely look forward to reading more of her work.
May 18, 2012
I have been a big fan of Jane Johnson since I fell into her book "The Tenth Gift" aboard a BC Ferry. "The Salt Road" was also a great read. This book... I struggled through. While the subject matter should be fascinating (Morocco, history, point of view of a eunuch) it just didn't engage me the way her earlier books did. I found myself rushing through the middle, hoping to get to the exciting part... which just didn't materialize.
However, the ending was worth wading through the book for. I'm glad I finished it, but disappointed that this book just wasn't as gripping as her others. I also felt cheated by the "teaser" she puts in at the bginning, where we meet Catherine and her corsair husband from "The Tenth Gift," albeit in their sixties. I WANT MORE of their story!
However, the ending was worth wading through the book for. I'm glad I finished it, but disappointed that this book just wasn't as gripping as her others. I also felt cheated by the "teaser" she puts in at the bginning, where we meet Catherine and her corsair husband from "The Tenth Gift," albeit in their sixties. I WANT MORE of their story!
August 17, 2018
Zanimljiva, jednostavna i sto je najvažnije temelji se na povijesnim činjenicama.
Osim price koja me “držala” od početka so kraja, saznala sam nesto o državi Maroko u 17.stoljecu.
Osim price koja me “držala” od početka so kraja, saznala sam nesto o državi Maroko u 17.stoljecu.
November 16, 2017
I honestly expected a little bit more after The Salt Road which was amazing. I guess I got spoiled in the process.
The best thing about this book is how vividly and realistic Jane describes the historical setting, scenery, life and death, rape, harem, the plague... You are drawn in and you feel as though you are living the story. That is the author's greatest asset.
Few things bothered me but nothing as much to ruin the pleasure of reading it. She could have made more contact / more encounters between Alys and Nus-Nus. It seems they fell in love just by looking at each other. I didn't feel that kind of a close connection. But other than that, I liked it.
The best thing about this book is how vividly and realistic Jane describes the historical setting, scenery, life and death, rape, harem, the plague... You are drawn in and you feel as though you are living the story. That is the author's greatest asset.
Few things bothered me but nothing as much to ruin the pleasure of reading it. She could have made more contact / more encounters between Alys and Nus-Nus. It seems they fell in love just by looking at each other. I didn't feel that kind of a close connection. But other than that, I liked it.
October 8, 2012
It was my good fortune to have been loaned this marvelous book! The author took me on a fascinating ride back in history. The excursion included companionship of well rounded characters, authentic place & time!
My experience with the exploration was enhanced because I'd visited the prime location (Meknes), and am familiar with other sites mentioned as well as customs and various references, such as a fruit (argan) that grows only in Morocco!
Thoroughly enjoyed!
My experience with the exploration was enhanced because I'd visited the prime location (Meknes), and am familiar with other sites mentioned as well as customs and various references, such as a fruit (argan) that grows only in Morocco!
Thoroughly enjoyed!
Read
April 22, 2019I loved the author’s Salt Road, which is why I picked this one up. But it was tough sledding for me. I lost interest in the characters and did not finish.
September 23, 2021
Interesting and to a certain extent educational read. It did take me some time to get into it. More thorough review to follow.
August 19, 2021
I have previously read and enjoyed Jane’s books and once again, she has outdone herself in rich prose that through quality research, brings to life a period not as well frequented from history. Morocco 1677, where one of one of the most tyrannical rulers in history, Sultan Moulay Ishmael, was in power. Ruthless and at times gory it proved a fascinating time in history.
… in these past hours I have discovered there is a strength in me I had not expected, a hard seam that lies beneath the surface. Some might call it obstinacy. I don’t know what it is, and I don’t seem to be in control of it: I fear it may drive me to behave in a way that will threaten my own life.’
This story is told from the point of view of the eunuch Nus-Nus and an English woman Alys who has been captured, enslaved and is now a concubine in the sultan's court. While both of these characters are fictional, many others, and indeed a string of events, are in fact true and through meticulous research brought to life. This is an epic tale that takes its readers from Meknes to Tangier to London and back.
‘… most of all, I am angry with myself. Night after night I lie in the darkness questioning who I am, what I have become; what I may be.’
The best thing is of course Jane’s writing - so realistic and vividly portrayed - everything from the setting, scenery and court intrigue to the more confronting death, rape and plague.You cannot help but be drawn along on this epic journey. I would have liked a bit more from Alys' perspective and felt the brief times when she encountered Nus-Nus to really need more depth in order to feel more about their relationship. There is also a lot of detail in this tale - a lot! Some events seem really drawn out whereas others - especially the ending - came really quickly and I would have loved more detail.
‘… the doctor went into an apothecary’s shop and bought a pair of the curious bird-beaked masks that Venetian doctors had worn to go about the city in safety … he showed me how they had stuffed the beaks with herbs to cleanse the air they breathed, and then tutted. ‘I am sure, however, that the pestilence is not airborne. We’ll have to hope for another outbreak so that I can test my theories.’
Without doubt now, after my third Jane Johnson book, I can state that she is an amazing storyteller and if being transported to dark and sinister yet gripping Arabian nights of the 17th century appeals to you then I very highly recommend that you give it a go!
‘When your heart and your conscience are in chains, what freedom is there? I just shake my head. ‘I cannot go.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
… in these past hours I have discovered there is a strength in me I had not expected, a hard seam that lies beneath the surface. Some might call it obstinacy. I don’t know what it is, and I don’t seem to be in control of it: I fear it may drive me to behave in a way that will threaten my own life.’
This story is told from the point of view of the eunuch Nus-Nus and an English woman Alys who has been captured, enslaved and is now a concubine in the sultan's court. While both of these characters are fictional, many others, and indeed a string of events, are in fact true and through meticulous research brought to life. This is an epic tale that takes its readers from Meknes to Tangier to London and back.
‘… most of all, I am angry with myself. Night after night I lie in the darkness questioning who I am, what I have become; what I may be.’
The best thing is of course Jane’s writing - so realistic and vividly portrayed - everything from the setting, scenery and court intrigue to the more confronting death, rape and plague.You cannot help but be drawn along on this epic journey. I would have liked a bit more from Alys' perspective and felt the brief times when she encountered Nus-Nus to really need more depth in order to feel more about their relationship. There is also a lot of detail in this tale - a lot! Some events seem really drawn out whereas others - especially the ending - came really quickly and I would have loved more detail.
‘… the doctor went into an apothecary’s shop and bought a pair of the curious bird-beaked masks that Venetian doctors had worn to go about the city in safety … he showed me how they had stuffed the beaks with herbs to cleanse the air they breathed, and then tutted. ‘I am sure, however, that the pestilence is not airborne. We’ll have to hope for another outbreak so that I can test my theories.’
Without doubt now, after my third Jane Johnson book, I can state that she is an amazing storyteller and if being transported to dark and sinister yet gripping Arabian nights of the 17th century appeals to you then I very highly recommend that you give it a go!
‘When your heart and your conscience are in chains, what freedom is there? I just shake my head. ‘I cannot go.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
October 31, 2021
I was a little bit hesitant about this book as the cover, which is actually not the one shown above, made me think that it might be a bodice-ripper, which isn’t really my thing. Happily, I took a chance and found myself transported into 17th century Morocco, during the Sultanate of Moulay Ismail, a man who managed to produce almost 1000 children during his lifetime.
For anyone interested in history, this is a fantastically observed and researched novel and a welcome change from the more familiar depictions of the European courts of the period, although we do arrive at the court of Charles II at one point. The author’s knowledge and love of Morocco shines through and it in her descriptions of life at the Sultan’s court that the book really sings.
The novel is written from the point of view of 2 very different slaves, Nus-Nus, an African eunuch and Alys Swann, a Dutch-English woman, forced to join the Sultan’s harem. Whilst there is an element of romance, it shouldn’t put off anyone as it is a small part of a book which concentrates much more on the machinations and intrigues of court life.
I am a bit surprised by the title and marketing of this in some ways, as I feel it is more Nus-Nus’s book than Alys’s and would have been a great and unusual entry as part of Black history month.
Fantastic and an added bonus getting to look up the paintings of Mohammed ben Hadou afterwards!
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Head of Zeus, for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
For anyone interested in history, this is a fantastically observed and researched novel and a welcome change from the more familiar depictions of the European courts of the period, although we do arrive at the court of Charles II at one point. The author’s knowledge and love of Morocco shines through and it in her descriptions of life at the Sultan’s court that the book really sings.
The novel is written from the point of view of 2 very different slaves, Nus-Nus, an African eunuch and Alys Swann, a Dutch-English woman, forced to join the Sultan’s harem. Whilst there is an element of romance, it shouldn’t put off anyone as it is a small part of a book which concentrates much more on the machinations and intrigues of court life.
I am a bit surprised by the title and marketing of this in some ways, as I feel it is more Nus-Nus’s book than Alys’s and would have been a great and unusual entry as part of Black history month.
Fantastic and an added bonus getting to look up the paintings of Mohammed ben Hadou afterwards!
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Head of Zeus, for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2017
Excellent historical fiction set in 17th century Morocco about the infamous Moulay Ismail, who ruled from 1672-1727, a very long time for the era. It's told from the point of view of the eunuch Nus-Nus who befriends an English woman Albs who has been enslaved and is now a concubine in the sultan's court. Moulay Ismail's murderous wife Zidana makes life difficult for both.
While Alys and Nus-Nus are fictional, the setting and intrigue are meticulously researched and wonderfully brought to life.
While Alys and Nus-Nus are fictional, the setting and intrigue are meticulously researched and wonderfully brought to life.
September 22, 2022
**As a Moroccan I did not enjoy this novel one bit!**
*Dear everyone, don't reference your knowledge of a country or culture upon this book. You'd be surprised of how flawed the representation is*
The book's Title should have been Sultan İsmail and his Black Slave Nus Nus. Seriously.. I am way halfway through the book and there are just little bits of Alys the Englishwoman story and perspective. The author goes in GREAT length to describe by immense details the Sultan, his evil wife, the slaves and their private parts, the castles, walls and so on.. and when mentioning Alys she recaps the whole things like "ok guys long story short, Alys is unhappy and shocked she's been treated badly by the whole court" ! Since the plot should include the Englishwoman, I begged to know more about her, her feelings, her maneuvers inside the court with the other women, her feelings towards the Sultan and then towards the slave Nus Nus.. I begged.. but still all I got was more Ismail's slave slaughtering, Couscous eating and War hunger.
Ughhh..
Now let's go back to the fact that I am Moroccan reading this novel that's set in the kingdom of Morocco.. Dear Author, it is obvious you have done your research, about the cities, foods, names of people and places.. but I don't think you have done enough research about the culture and religion of the people. Yes sure you throw now and then quite often the name of God, the Prophet sayings (out of context) and the Quran implications to what's believed by the people of the court especially the Sultan. The whole representation of the country let alone the religion is flawed to the core. The Culture of the people is very important, and it has been missed. Now after reading the book, all I saw was the hostility of the Arab Moroccans, the barbarism and cruelty of The Amazigh tribes, and the ignorance and idiocy of most of the women...
Give me a break..
The author is an English woman lived in Morocco for a few years in her lifetime. In her writings you could tell, without even researching her. That speaks volume into explaining the stereotypical and embodiment of the colonialist attitude towards the country, its culture and religion.
But again, what do I know?
The end.
*Dear everyone, don't reference your knowledge of a country or culture upon this book. You'd be surprised of how flawed the representation is*
The book's Title should have been Sultan İsmail and his Black Slave Nus Nus. Seriously.. I am way halfway through the book and there are just little bits of Alys the Englishwoman story and perspective. The author goes in GREAT length to describe by immense details the Sultan, his evil wife, the slaves and their private parts, the castles, walls and so on.. and when mentioning Alys she recaps the whole things like "ok guys long story short, Alys is unhappy and shocked she's been treated badly by the whole court" ! Since the plot should include the Englishwoman, I begged to know more about her, her feelings, her maneuvers inside the court with the other women, her feelings towards the Sultan and then towards the slave Nus Nus.. I begged.. but still all I got was more Ismail's slave slaughtering, Couscous eating and War hunger.
Ughhh..
Now let's go back to the fact that I am Moroccan reading this novel that's set in the kingdom of Morocco.. Dear Author, it is obvious you have done your research, about the cities, foods, names of people and places.. but I don't think you have done enough research about the culture and religion of the people. Yes sure you throw now and then quite often the name of God, the Prophet sayings (out of context) and the Quran implications to what's believed by the people of the court especially the Sultan. The whole representation of the country let alone the religion is flawed to the core. The Culture of the people is very important, and it has been missed. Now after reading the book, all I saw was the hostility of the Arab Moroccans, the barbarism and cruelty of The Amazigh tribes, and the ignorance and idiocy of most of the women...
Give me a break..
The author is an English woman lived in Morocco for a few years in her lifetime. In her writings you could tell, without even researching her. That speaks volume into explaining the stereotypical and embodiment of the colonialist attitude towards the country, its culture and religion.
But again, what do I know?
The end.
July 14, 2012
What an excellent read! It takes place in Morocco in the year 1677 when the awful,tyrannical and powerful Sultan, Moulay Ismail ruled with his evil and monstrous wife Zidana.
This story is told by Nus Nus, the son of a Chieftan who was taken by slavers and now works for the Sultan as a lowly scribe. He has a book where he records all of the Sultan's sexual activities. The Sultan has a huge harem of which his horrible wife, Zidana is in charge of. History records that this Sultan fathered over 900 children.
Nus Nus, who had his manhood cut away from him, is the well known Eunich in the Sultan's court. He is seen as being strong of character and has a way of seeing things logically. The Sultan relies on him for his steadiness and yet can in an instant threaten to cut off his head for the slightest infraction. I loved Nus Nus's sense of fairness and humour, while being surrounded by the changing tempers of the Sultan and his wife. He is described as being a tall, strong and a physically imposing figure. As we get to know him, he becomes an endearing person, with a warm heart and I would say the sanest and most intelligent of any person in court.
It had to have been terrible to live in those times. People just seemed to be so barbaric without much value for life. This book is a page turner. I was constantly on edge, fearful for dear Nus Nus's life at every turn. He was a character that really grew on me.
Nus Nus falls in love with one of the women in the Sultan's harem. She is a white woman who also was abducted on her way to England to marry a British man. This is just one of the story lines that runs through the book along side other themes going on.
I haven't heard of this author before I picked up this book. I see she has written 2 other books before The Sultan's Wife and I want to read those. Ms. Johnson has lived in Morocco and is married to a Berber man, giving her some credibility in being able to write about life in Morocco.
A few years back, I visited Tangiers, Morocco, just for a day. It was a stop over from Spain. So, I am always intrigued to read about places that I can picture a bit and also to learn more about. I also had the priviledge of visiting the Sultan's Palace in Istanbul, Turkey.
This story is told by Nus Nus, the son of a Chieftan who was taken by slavers and now works for the Sultan as a lowly scribe. He has a book where he records all of the Sultan's sexual activities. The Sultan has a huge harem of which his horrible wife, Zidana is in charge of. History records that this Sultan fathered over 900 children.
Nus Nus, who had his manhood cut away from him, is the well known Eunich in the Sultan's court. He is seen as being strong of character and has a way of seeing things logically. The Sultan relies on him for his steadiness and yet can in an instant threaten to cut off his head for the slightest infraction. I loved Nus Nus's sense of fairness and humour, while being surrounded by the changing tempers of the Sultan and his wife. He is described as being a tall, strong and a physically imposing figure. As we get to know him, he becomes an endearing person, with a warm heart and I would say the sanest and most intelligent of any person in court.
It had to have been terrible to live in those times. People just seemed to be so barbaric without much value for life. This book is a page turner. I was constantly on edge, fearful for dear Nus Nus's life at every turn. He was a character that really grew on me.
Nus Nus falls in love with one of the women in the Sultan's harem. She is a white woman who also was abducted on her way to England to marry a British man. This is just one of the story lines that runs through the book along side other themes going on.
I haven't heard of this author before I picked up this book. I see she has written 2 other books before The Sultan's Wife and I want to read those. Ms. Johnson has lived in Morocco and is married to a Berber man, giving her some credibility in being able to write about life in Morocco.
A few years back, I visited Tangiers, Morocco, just for a day. It was a stop over from Spain. So, I am always intrigued to read about places that I can picture a bit and also to learn more about. I also had the priviledge of visiting the Sultan's Palace in Istanbul, Turkey.
September 3, 2012
A good read, this historical novel takes place in 17th century Morocco&England. Alys Swann is abducted by Moorish pirates when sailing to England from Holland to get married. She ends up in the
harem of Moulay Ismail-a cruel capricious vindictive king-where she will give birth to a son Mohammed,which puts her at odds with the First Wife Zidana who rules the harem & uses all means to secure the succession for her brood. We meet NusNus an African slave of royal descent, whose 1st master is a broadminded doctor who gives him an education&with whom he travels widely. When he dies he is sold to a master at the Moroccan court who makes him a eunuch, and plans to keep him as a lover. NusNus is a minor functionary but has several enemies at court whose evil designs he defeats. He falls secretly in love with Alys. When it appears that she&her son maybe in danger at the hands of Zidana, NusNus engineers to smuggle Mohammed to England hidden in a secret bottom compartment of a trunk of gifts, knocked out by drugs, when NusNus is selected to go to England with an embassy to discuss the fate of Tangiers, occupied by the English. There he meets king Charles II, and learns that Alys,who gave him a document for the king, is actually his illegitimate daughter, and Mohammed his grandson. Mohammed is placed with a courtier who will look after him. NusNus returns to Morocco, where the ambassy party is accused of unkoranic behaviour for which they are thrown to the lions. NusNus manages to save the ambassador at the peril of his life. This earns him Ismail`s respect, and he is freed from slavery&promoted to a post in the Elite Guard. On his return he found out that Alys was a victim of the bloody flux & is disconsolate. Later he discovers that she is alive, but living on the margins of the court. He finds her,they reveal their mutual love, and discreetly escape to England to rejoin Mohammed.
harem of Moulay Ismail-a cruel capricious vindictive king-where she will give birth to a son Mohammed,which puts her at odds with the First Wife Zidana who rules the harem & uses all means to secure the succession for her brood. We meet NusNus an African slave of royal descent, whose 1st master is a broadminded doctor who gives him an education&with whom he travels widely. When he dies he is sold to a master at the Moroccan court who makes him a eunuch, and plans to keep him as a lover. NusNus is a minor functionary but has several enemies at court whose evil designs he defeats. He falls secretly in love with Alys. When it appears that she&her son maybe in danger at the hands of Zidana, NusNus engineers to smuggle Mohammed to England hidden in a secret bottom compartment of a trunk of gifts, knocked out by drugs, when NusNus is selected to go to England with an embassy to discuss the fate of Tangiers, occupied by the English. There he meets king Charles II, and learns that Alys,who gave him a document for the king, is actually his illegitimate daughter, and Mohammed his grandson. Mohammed is placed with a courtier who will look after him. NusNus returns to Morocco, where the ambassy party is accused of unkoranic behaviour for which they are thrown to the lions. NusNus manages to save the ambassador at the peril of his life. This earns him Ismail`s respect, and he is freed from slavery&promoted to a post in the Elite Guard. On his return he found out that Alys was a victim of the bloody flux & is disconsolate. Later he discovers that she is alive, but living on the margins of the court. He finds her,they reveal their mutual love, and discreetly escape to England to rejoin Mohammed.
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