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402
Novel • Fiction
Amsterdam • 1650s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Informative
Gritty
Challenging
10,196 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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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.
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.
10,196 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alonzo Alferonda
A Portuguese Jew and former secret Jew in Lisbon, Alferonda provides retrospective insights through his memoirs and becomes a usurer after being excommunicated in Amsterdam.
Geertruid Damhuis
A charming Dutch widow who navigates Amsterdam's social and business circles with wit and reveals a secret connection to the city's notorious bandits.
Hannah
Miguel’s brother’s wife, she is of Catholic origin, secretly questions her faith in Amsterdam, and finds camaraderie with Miguel amidst a lonely marriage.
Annetje
Hannah's manipulative Dutch servant with a seemingly sweet demeanor hides her true nature and has complex ties to various key players in the unfolding intrigues.
Solomon Parido
A wealthy and influential merchant, Parido has a stern demeanor, is a member of the Ma’amad, and is entangled in business and personal conflicts with multiple characters.
Daniel Lienzo
Miguel’s younger brother, laboring under the favor of their late father, he maintains a semblance of devotion to Judaism in Amsterdam while lacking true spiritual engagement.
Joachim Waagenaar
A former investor in Miguel's sugar venture, he initially seeks retribution but later aligns with Miguel for personal gain.
Hendrick
A young, muscular Dutchman closely associated with Geertruid, consistently loyal, and capable of carrying out acts of vengeance.
Isaiah Nunes
Miguel’s cautious friend and a successful trader linked to the Dutch East India Company who becomes involved in Miguel's coffee trade plans.
402
Novel • Fiction
Amsterdam • 1650s
2003
Adult
18+ years
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