Jason Goodwin's debut novel The Janissary Tree (2008) is a richly atmospheric historical mystery set in 1836 Istanbul at the heart of the Ottoman Empire. This audiobook edition, expertly narrated by Andrew Sachs, brings the intricate plot and exotic setting vividly to life across four professionally produced CD discs.
The story centres on Yashim, an eunuch detective operating within the forbidden inner sanctum of Topkapi Palace. As the Sultan moves to modernize the empire, a deadly wave of murders threatens the fragile balance of power at court. Yashim must navigate palace intrigue, ancient history and the teeming streets of Istanbul to uncover the truth—all while drawing on the wisdom of unlikely allies, including a dyspeptic Polish ambassador, a transsexual dancer and the Creole-born queen mother.
This is the first in Goodwin's acclaimed Yashim series. The novel combines detailed historical research with literary craft, creating an immersive portrait of a civilization at a turning point and a protagonist unlike any detective in crime fiction.
| Title | The Janissary Tree |
| Author | Jason Goodwin |
| Narrator | Andrew Sachs |
| Format | Audio CD (Audiobook) |
| Number of CDs | 4 |
| Case Type | Jewel Case: Standard |
| Publisher | Faber & Faber |
| Publication Year | 2008 |
| Language | English |
| Genre / Category | Historical Mystery, Crime Thriller, Historical Fiction |
| Edition | Unabridged |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition Grade | Like New |
Like New. This audiobook set shows minimal signs of handling. The jewel case is clean with no visible cracks or damage; all four discs are present and in excellent condition with no scratches or visible playback marks. The interior booklet is intact and unmarked. The discs have been tested and play without issue. This is a pristine example of this 2008 Faber & Faber release, ready to enjoy immediately.
Q: Is this the complete, unabridged novel?
A: Yes. This is the full unabridged audiobook as published by Faber & Faber, spread across four discs and narrated in full by Andrew Sachs.
Q: Are all four discs present and playable?
A: Yes. All four CDs are present, in excellent condition, and have been tested to confirm they play without issue. The case is complete with the booklet intact.
Q: Who is the narrator?
A: Andrew Sachs, an accomplished voice actor known for his narration of literary fiction and historical narratives. His performance brings the atmospheric setting and complex protagonist to life.
Q: Is this the first book in the Yashim series?
A: Yes. The Janissary Tree is the debut novel featuring detective Yashim and introduces the setting of Ottoman-era Istanbul. It launched a celebrated series that continues with The Snake Stone and beyond.
Q: What if I'd like to listen on a modern device?
A: The discs can be played on any standard CD player, car stereo, or computer with CD drive. Many modern devices support audiobook apps that can import and play CD-format audio files.
This audiobook is despatched promptly from the UK within one working day of cleared payment. UK buyers receive FREE postage — no additional charge at checkout. The item is carefully protected during transit to ensure all four discs arrive in perfect condition. International buyers are welcome via eBay's Global Shipping Programme; postage costs and any applicable duties are calculated automatically at checkout.
Questions about this audiobook? Send a message and we'll reply promptly. If you'd like additional information about disc condition, the booklet contents, or the narrator's performance, please ask — we're happy to help you buy with confidence.