Arman and Zackaria both grow up in Iran during the 50’s and 60’s. Arman is of Armenian extraction and grows up in Isfahan, the son of a deacon. Zackaria loses his parents in an epidemic and is adopted by a childless couple. He grows up in Gara, near Persepolis in the south-eastern part of the country. Arman’s youth is characterized by ethnic tensions between young gangs, which degenerates into public disturbances and leads to his first contact with the Shah’s security police, SAVAK. Zackaria’s career is largely determined by a traumatic experience during his youth. Their paths cross in the army and their destinies become intertwined to the bitter end.

We first meet Arman and Zackaria during the 70’s, a time of upheaval and intrigue. Demonstrations break out regularly. The much hated security police infiltrate the numerous resistance groups in the country and many people disappear, never to be seen again. In this repressive social climate a number of foreign interests clash. Who is performing secret military manoeuvres in the Khorasani Desert? And who is Mr. Bombay? And who really shot the American generals in the lobby of the Hulton Hotel? And why is Zackaria so fond of his nightingale? Before long he will experience the last flight of the nightingale...

When the disturbances turn into a revolution, the situation becomes unbearable for any military personnel associated with the old regime. Many leave the country. Among them are Arman and Zackaria. But life outside Iran becomes more difficult than anyone could ever have imagined.

A story of cultural differences, August 8, 2008 By Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA)

Growing up in Iran is a different experience from growing up anywhere else. "The Last Flight of a Nightingale" is the story of Arman and Zackaria, who struggle to survive in the harsh world of resistance to the extremists who run their country. Amid revolution, they enter into an even harsher world outside the boundaries of Iran. A story of cultural differences, political intrigue, and more, "The Last Flight of a Nightingale" gives readers something to hold on to for the entire ride. Recommended to fans of historical fiction.