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53 pages 1 hour read

David Liss

The Coffee Trader

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Coffee Trader by David Liss is set in Amsterdam in 1659 and follows Miguel Lienzo, a Portuguese Jewish merchant involved in the risky new trade of coffee. Facing financial ruin, Miguel partners with a Dutch widow and navigates complex relationships and deceit within the culturally diverse city, ultimately experiencing both betrayal and unexpected success in the bustling Amsterdam Exchange.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Coffee Trader by David Liss is applauded for its meticulous historical detail and immersive storytelling, set against the backdrop of 17th-century Amsterdam. However, some readers find the pacing slow and complex financial terms challenging. The intricate plot and well-crafted characters clearly captivate, earning it overall positive acclaim.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Coffee Trader?

A reader who revels in historical thrillers with rich period detail, complex financial intrigue, and intricate character development would enjoy The Coffee Trader by David Liss. Fans of Michael Faber's The Crimson Petal and the White and Umberto Eco's The Name of the Rose will appreciate its vivid 17th-century Amsterdam setting and felt tension.

Book Details
Pages

402

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Amsterdam • 1650s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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