A wonderful blend of the past and the present day making an unputdownable, beautifully written novel

Katie Fforde

Johnson's research is evident here – the twists and turns of Momo's attempts to hang on to his sultanate are compelling. Blessings' tormented love is beautifully written, as is the atmosphere of 15th-century Spain... Page-turning stuff'

The Times

Loyalty and treachery are examined mercilessly as the twin stories unfold. There is history here, examined from a fresh perspective, and humanity injected into a tale that perhaps the reader only knew as names and dates and places. An excellent reminder that weighty events can pivot on the actions of a few determined souls. Highly recommended

Robin Hobb

To so perfectly capture the complex, heady exoticism of the end of an empire, and weave it with such gripping love stories past and present is an astonishing storytelling feat. Beware. You'll read this in one sitting

Muriel Gray

Johnson follows two parallel threads – a double helix if you will, not so much intertwined as touching gently on each other – with points of connection as light yet poignant as a lover's kiss

TO Munro

The descriptions are lush and detailed... A great personal, book group and definite holiday read!'

Nudge Book