Last Letter from Istanbul by Lucy Foley is a historical fiction novel set in Constantinople (present-day Istanbul) in 1921, following the aftermath of World War I.
Plot Summary
The story centers around Nur, a young Istanbul woman who was forced from her grand house on the Bosphorus after the Allied occupation. The house is now an army hospital run by the British. Nur cares for an orphaned boy with a secret, and when he falls ill, she is forced to return to the house and seek help from Dr. George Monroe, a British medical officer. As tensions simmer between the occupying forces and the local population, Nur and George form an unlikely bond.
The novel is told from multiple perspectives, including Nur, Dr. Monroe, a mysterious prisoner, and a traveler. Through these different viewpoints, the story explores themes of love, loss, war, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Why Should You Read It
- Vivid Historical Setting: Foley brings the sights, sounds, and smells of Constantinople to life, transporting you back to a tumultuous time in history.
- Compelling Characters: Nur, Dr. Monroe, and the other characters are all well-developed and complex, making you care about their fates.
- Forbidden Love Story: The romance between Nur and Dr. Monroe adds a layer of emotional tension to the story.
- Multiple Perspectives: The use of multiple narrators keeps the story fresh and engaging.
- Exploration of War's Impact: The novel explores the lasting effects of war on individuals and communities.
If you enjoy historical fiction with strong characters, a touch of romance, and a look at the human cost of war, then Last Letter from Istanbul is a book you will love.
Descriptions are sourced from publishers or third parties and are not independently verified
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