Alyin by Ayşe Kulin | Rating: ★★★★☆

As a note, an e-galley of this novel was sent to me via NetGalley by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not effect my opinions in any way.

"No one actually listens. People have to find happiness through their own trials and errors."

Aylin, at times, may be a bit difficult to follow–this is something you must know right off the bat. I don’t want you to misunderstand me, though, because while it isn’t the easiest thing to follow it is still a wonderful read. It’s beautifully written but it is not a novel that you can fully appreciate unless you are focused.

I don’t even have to say this next bit, but I will just to make my point: Aylin is not going to be for everyone. If you cannot devout your time to such a story, if you have a bit of difficulty following along, this novel will not connect with you.

But if you are up to it, this novel will be just what you are looking for–I knew within the first few chapters that the story was special.

Be prepared to get lost in its words, be prepared to take your time and embrace the story as it unfolds and most importantly you must be sure to let it get into its groove. Ayşe Kulin is a phenomenal voice in literature and that is what makes the story intimate and vivid.


Although I had times where I wanted to stop reading for a few moments, she kept pulling me back in and the story of Aylin began to haunt me in all the right ways. I enjoyed her prose and how she chose to develop characters; I enjoyed watching Aylin grow and adapt to life changes.

Alyin can be equal parts likable and unlikable but it’s very easy to want the best for her. Her romances, her failures and triumphs–they all paint the picture of a strong, intelligent woman and make her irresistible to readers. I loved seeing her interactions with her family, with Mitch (oh, I do wish they had worked out–I’m sorry!) and with her patients.

Her life story unfolds in real time; gathering a glimpse of the woman that is growing. I wasn’t fond of how the time jumped at times, it did get a bit confusing, but I did think it served its purpose and provided a little something to the plot.

Overall, it’s another of my perfect picks for reading this Autumn and will entertain, delight and throw various emotions at its audience. All you must do is sit back, relax, and give it a chance to grow–you won’t regret it!

I recommend a nice warm drink, a cozy sweater and a focused mind while reading this one. It’s wonderful, it’s worth it and it’s the perfect novel to get lost in. And please, please don’t let the summary fool you: it’s got a mysterious element to it, but ultimately it’s about life and how Aylin lived it.