The Bastard of Istanbul

In The Bastard of Istanbul, a woman's life-changing decision leads to the unraveling of family secrets and a complex exploration of identity and heritage.

On a rainy afternoon in Istanbul, a young woman walks into a doctor's office, declaring, 'I need to have an abortion.' At just nineteen and unmarried, she is on the brink of a life-altering decision. This pivotal moment sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of The Bastard of Istanbul, where the consequences of her choice ripple through the lives of those connected to her.

Fast forward twenty years, Asya Kazanci navigates life within her extended family, bound by a mysterious curse that claims the lives of Kazanci men in their forties. The household is a vibrant tapestry of women, including Asya's rebellious mother, Zeliha, who runs a tattoo parlor, and Banu, who has recently embraced her clairvoyant abilities. Feride, another family member, is a hypochondriac, always anticipating disaster. The arrival of Asya's Armenian-American cousin, Armanoush, unearths long-buried family secrets, intertwining their stories with Turkey's complex and turbulent history.

The Bastard of Istanbul is a beautifully crafted tale that delves into the themes of identity, family, and the weight of the past. Through rich character development and evocative storytelling, the novel captures the essence of a culture steeped in tradition, while also addressing the challenges of modernity. As the characters confront their intertwined fates, readers are invited to reflect on the impact of history on personal lives.