Belshazzar's Daughter (Inspector Ikmen Mystery 1)

In her debut novel, Barbara Nadel introduces Inspector Cetin Ikmen, who investigates a murder in Istanbul's Jewish quarter, uncovering secrets and connections that reveal a complex and atmospheric narrative.

Belshazzar's Daughter marks the debut of Barbara Nadel's Inspector Ikmen Mystery series, introducing readers to the intriguing world of Istanbul through the eyes of Inspector Cetin Ikmen. The novel begins with the shocking murder of Leonid Meyer, discovered in his flat in Balat, the city's historic Jewish quarter, with a swastika painted in his blood. While the initial evidence suggests a racially motivated crime, Ikmen, known for his keen instincts, quickly seeks deeper truths, steering the investigation away from surface-level assumptions.

As Ikmen delves into the case, he and his young lieutenant, Suleyman, uncover connections to two suspects: Robert Cornelius, a teacher seen near the crime scene, and Reinhold Smits, a retired businessman with a troubling past. The plot thickens with the introduction of Maria Gulcu, a ninety-year-old Russian émigré who believes she holds a secret that could be worth killing for. This intricate web of relationships and motives showcases Nadel's talent for weaving complex narratives that reflect the rich tapestry of Istanbul's culture and history.

Critics have praised Belshazzar's Daughter for its vivid portrayal of life in modern Turkey, complemented by well-drawn characters and a gripping plot. The novel not only serves as a captivating mystery but also immerses readers in the atmospheric allure of Istanbul, making it a compelling read for fans of crime fiction. As the first installment in the Inspector Ikmen series, it sets the stage for future adventures while establishing Nadel as a distinctive voice in the genre.