Although this book went over a LOT of history of Istanbul, I loved reading about the different figures and how their lives intertwined, and how various political changes impacted them. A beautifully-written look into the city and made me feel like I was really there. I also enjoyed the different words used throughout in Turkish, as they really added to the exploration of Istanbul, especially as I have not yet visited. An excellent read!

A love letter to my favourite city in the world: history, atmosphere, places
A fascinating read
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Within these walls.

Based on the conceit of a circuit of the old Theodosian walls of Constantinople, and examining the stories of the often marginalized sections of modern Turkish society that live by and among them, this work does an excellent job of puncturing the Erdogan myth of national unity, showing the before and after of both the Taksim Square protests and the failed 'coup' of 2016. As an aside, any readers of Barbara Nadel's Ikmen series would be well advised to read this for some factual background to the issues facing Istanbul.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

If you enjoy history and that type of stuff whether it be ancient history or more modern history there’s definitely something to read here. Instanbul is one of the most ancient cities on earth and definitely has a long history as expansive as it is interesting.

Really interesting insight into one of the most amazing cities in the world! Very compelling writing that made it feel alive.