'55

The book is widely praised for its exceptionally captivating and immersive portrayal of Constantinople, also known as Istanbul. Reviewers highlight the author's masterful use of language and engaging writing style, which vividly transports readers to the city's alleys, rich history, and unique atmosphere. The narrative is described as flowing powerfully, presenting striking scenes and bringing the city to life in a colorful, bustling, beautiful, and sometimes contradictory manner, filled with the scents and images of a bygone era. Many found the book deeply moving, particularly its impactful depiction of the '55 events and their profound effect on the city's Greek community. The author's evident love for the city shines through every page, offering a nuanced account that explores the causes of these historical events, including political motives and prejudices, while also noting individual acts of humanity. It is seen as a rich, detailed, and non-nationalistic ode to the city, featuring a distinct female protagonist.

Despite its strengths, several reviewers point out significant structural and stylistic challenges. A recurring criticism is the book's lack of a continuous plot or traditional narrative flow, making it difficult for some readers to follow. This is attributed to the protagonist's non-linear storytelling, which often jumps between events and times. A major drawback cited by many is the frequent repetition of themes, details, and events, which can make the book feel tedious and overly long, with some suggesting it could benefit from substantial editing to reduce its page count. The dense accumulation of historical, cultural, and encyclopedic information, combined with numerous footnotes and translations, can also overwhelm readers, leading to a fragmented experience that some found boring and hard to complete. One reviewer also noted a subtle "aftertaste of irredentism" in the ending, which they disliked.

Overall, the book is considered a powerful and emotionally resonant work, often described as a "little gem" and potentially the author's best. While its unconventional structure and repetitive nature may not appeal to all, it is highly recommended for readers who appreciate evocative language and rich descriptions over a conventional plot. It will particularly satisfy those with a deep interest in Constantinople/Istanbul, its history, culture, and the lives of its minority communities, especially concerning the impactful events of 1955. Readers who enjoy immersive historical accounts, don't mind a non-linear narrative, and are willing to engage with a dense, detailed text will find themselves transported to the city and its past, returning to its themes long after finishing.