Set in 17th-century Morocco, The Sultan's Wife tells the story of two people imprisoned in the court of the maniacal Sultan Moulay Ismail. Nus-Nus, the son of an African chief, is slave and scribe to the sultan; Alys Swann is an Englishwoman captured at sea and imprisoned in the harem. Though Alys' unique beauty and Nus-Nus' worldly experience intrigue the sultan and make them his favourites, they live in fear of his lethal temper and his vicious wife's manipulations. A captivating read that has something for everyone: mystery, adventure, sex, history and romance.
The Sultan's Wife, Jane Johnson, $23.
Subscribe to Chatelaine!
Want to streamline your life? In our Spring 2025 issue, we’ll show you how—whether it’s paring down your wardrobe, decluttering your messiest spaces or spending way less time cooking thanks to an easy, mostly make-ahead meal plan for busy weeknights. Plus, our first annual Pantry Awards.