Summer Heat

Book Review: Summer Heat by Defne Suman

Rating: 3 Star

I recently finished Summer Heat by Defne Suman, and it left me with mixed feelings. The book has a stunning cover that immediately caught my eye, but unfortunately, the story itself didn't quite live up to my expectations.

The novel follows Melike, a seemingly content art historian living in Istanbul with a lovely home and a caring husband. However, beneath the surface, she's been indulging in a series of affairs, seeking the excitement that her life seems to lack. As she approaches her fortieth birthday, Melike decides it's time to put an end to her reckless behavior. But just when she thinks she can turn over a new leaf, she receives an email from a man named Petro, asking for a tour of the city's Byzantine churches. Despite her better judgment, she agrees to meet him.

From the moment Melike encounters Petro and his charming demeanor, it's clear that things are about to get complicated. As the narrative unfolds, we learn that Petro harbors his own secrets that not only threaten Melike's future but also challenge everything she thought she knew about her past. The story oscillates between 2003 and the backdrop of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, adding layers of historical significance to Melike's personal journey.

Now, while I appreciated the beautiful writing and the vivid setting of Istanbul, I have to admit that I struggled to get into the book. The pacing felt a bit slow for my taste, and there were moments when I found myself bored. I really wanted to connect with Melike's journey and feel the tension of her secrets unraveling, but it just didn't grab me like I hoped it would.

I know that not every book resonates with every reader, and while Summer Heat has its merits, it simply wasn't my cup of tea. If you're someone who enjoys lush prose and intricate character studies at a leisurely pace, you might find more joy in this story than I did. For me, though, it was a solid three-star read—beautiful on the outside but lacking a bit of excitement on the inside.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️