The Last Apartment in Istanbul by Defne Suman is a beautifully written exploration of memory, history, and the passage of time. The story revolves around Pericles Drakos, a seventy-five-year-old Greek man who has spent his entire life in the Circle Building, a once-glorious apartment complex in Istanbul. As the neighbourhood gentrifies and the pandemic deepens his isolation, Pericles retreats into the shadows of his home, reflecting on the changes in both the city and his own life.

When a vibrant thirty-something named Leyla moves into the building, Pericles becomes captivated by her energy and presence. As he discovers that Leyla is a writer, Pericles feels compelled to tell his own story—one shaped by the tumultuous politics and oppression he endured as a Greek man living in twentieth-century Turkey. In doing so, he seeks to preserve his memories, his identity, and the rich, complicated history of his experiences.

The book delicately balances the personal and the historical, drawing readers into Pericles' world with his poignant reflections on his past, his loves, his regrets, and his hopes. Suman's prose is elegant, capturing the sense of nostalgia, longing, and connection between generations. The relationship that blossoms between Pericles and Leyla adds a layer of warmth and human connection to the narrative, offering a reminder that even in the face of isolation, there is the potential for meaningful relationships and personal growth.

What truly stands out in The Last Apartment in Istanbul is its exploration of the intersections between individual lives and the larger political and cultural shifts that shape them. The story thoughtfully addresses themes of displacement, cultural identity, and the complexities of living in a city that is constantly evolving.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Suman’s storytelling is rich, immersive, and deeply moving. The Last Apartment in Istanbul is a book that not only captures the essence of Istanbul but also delves into the universal themes of love, loss, and memory. It’s a captivating read that stays with you long after the final page.

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I don't usualy read books that talk of the pandemic, I prefer to be taken away from real life, but this is a wonderful and gorgeous read.

Pericles Drakos is almost eighty and has lived his apartment for all his life.

When the pandemic hits he becomes lonely and isolated and when a new neighbour moved in it enriches his lifr

The is a book I truly enjoyed. It is beautifully written and I loved my reading time