Last Train to Istanbul

by Ayse Kulin

[Lianne]

Last Train to Istanbul was a fascinating read. It was interesting to see Turkey’s perspective as World War Two builds up and explodes across Europe. This novel interplays the personal drama of Selva and her family and the obstacles they face with the political situation and the actual figures involved in the diplomatic efforts. The events of World War Two and the treatment of the European Jews fit in with Selva’s personal story and her disagreements with her father and her family over the subject of religion.

The character drama nonetheless was very interesting, especially as the reader learns more about what motivates most of the characters and what they are going through. I wish more time was spent on Selva and Sabiha’s father as he is a focal character to why Selva moved away. It also seemed as though Sabiha’s storyline was a little removed compared to everyone else, more contained than everyone else.

While Last Train to Istanbul was an interesting read, I did find it a little startling and disappointing that the story ended very abruptly at the end. Nonetheless, readers who enjoy reading historical fiction set during World War Two and/or are looking to check out some Turkish titles may want to check this novel out.

You can read this review in its entirety over at caffeinatedlife.net: http://www.caffeinatedlife.net/blog/2013/10/01/review-last-train-to-istanbul/