Last Train to Istanbul by Ayse Kulin is a story of love and survival in a time of great uncertainty. The story opens in 1941 as World War II is raging in Europe and Turkey is between a rock and a hard place. Trying to avoid a repeat of the aftermath of The Great World, Turkey is reluctant to choose a side, despite pressures from Britain, Russia, and Germany. As war and politics rages on, a young girl falls in love. As the daughter of a prominent family, Selva could have any man who wanted and yet she only had eyes for the handsome, Rafael Alfandari, the Jewish son of an esteemed family. In defiance of both their families, they marry and flee to France. But soon the Nazis invade and occupy France and they find themselves in danger. A few brave Turkish diplomats develop a plan to get the Turkish Jews, including Selva and Rafael, out of France and back into Turkey. The train they must take crosses the war-torn continent and behind enemy lines. Will they make the train? Will they make it to safety?
Last Train to Istanbul opens more of the world in World War II. Most books focus on occupied France and Germany. Many people don’t realize that other countries were involved or desperately trying to stay out of the war. Last Train to Istanbul opened my eyes to the war than is normally talked about. The story was dramatic with daring escapes, family drama and the amazing human spirit to survive against unbelievable odds. This is my second book from Ms. Kulin. A few years ago, I read Love in Exile, which I also recommend, Last Train to Istanbul weaves a beautiful tapestry of the country and her people. I enjoyed every character with their different views on life, politics, and the importance of family regardless of the past. I always find it encouraging when people will go above and beyond for complete strangers and this is a story of those individuals. I recommend Last Train to Istanbul.
Last Train to Istanbul
is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
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