Dina Rizk Khoury's seminal work offers a profound examination of the intricate relationship between the central Ottoman state and its provincial society, specifically focusing on Mosul between 1540 and 1834. Khoury delves into how imperial policies were implemented and adapted at the local level, exploring the roles of various social groups, administrative elites, and religious institutions. The study challenges traditional narratives by highlighting the agency of local actors and the dynamic nature of power relations in a frontier province. It provides invaluable insights into the complexities of Ottoman governance, urban development, and social transformation during a crucial period of its history, making it essential reading for scholars of Middle Eastern history.