Katharine Branning – författare

This book comprises a series of imaginary letters written to Lady Mary Montagu, whose famous Embassy Letters were written in 1716-1718 during her stay in Turkey as the wife of the English ambassador. The author uses themes dear to Lady Mary, such as culture, art, religion, women and daily life, to reflect on those same topics as encountered during the author's past 30 years of travel in Turkey.

Mahperi, wife and mother of sultans, is at the centre of this saga which unfolds amidst the turbulent backdrop of the 13th century Seljuk Empire of Turkey. Mahperi the Moon Queen shone as brightly as the moon she was named for, surviving with dignity in a competitive court ruled by both love and hate in an era of builders and destroyers. Armed with intelligence and determination, she courageously weathered power struggles with male and female rivals, wars with the Mongols, intrigue at the court and ultimate betrayal to become one of the most influential figures in the Empire. Hers is the story of a woman who dreamed to build and leave a legacy in stone, alongside enlightened Sufis and gifted craftsmen. It is the portrait of love yearned, earned and lost. Inspired by true events and people, Moon Queen weaves a bright carpet of inspiration, by turns harrowing and heartbreaking, providing a new perspective on one of the most glorious periods of Turkish history.