I just finished "The Coffee Trader" by David Liss. I can't say enough about this man's books!
I read his first book, "A Conspiracy of Paper" when it came out back in 2000. "The Coffee Trader" was his 2nd book.
It is set in mid 17th century Amsterdam. The Dutch were just becoming familiar with coffee. It's a GREAT story and adventure.
Mr. Liss is Jewish, so he focuses heavily on the Jewish culture in Amsterdam in the time period. The main family in the story have fled The Inquisition in Portugal and found refuge, as did many Jewish families, in Amsterdam.
Both "A Conspiracy of Paper" and "The Coffee Trader" will give you a very good picture of life in those times and cultures.