I Must Betray You

by Ruta Sepetys
I Must Betray You cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Historical Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 1567
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9781444967623
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2022-02-03
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

I Must Betray You is a powerful and heart-breaking thriller that delves into the harrowing realities of life under a repressive dictatorship. The story follows Cristian, a 17-year-old who has lived his entire life under the oppressive rule of the Romanian regime. When the secret police blackmail him, Cristian is forced to make an impossible choice that could save his sick grandfather but betray his family or resist and risk all their lives. The novel is closely based on the real events of the Romanian Revolution of 1989, offering a gripping and emotionally charged narrative that explores themes of trust, resistance, and the human spirit. Written by the author of Salt to the Sea, winner of the Carnegie Medal, this book is a testament to the power of resistance and the struggle for freedom. It's a story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, questioning who they can trust and what they would do in Cristian's shoes. The novel has been recognized with the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers' Choice Medal for Writing 2023, highlighting its impact and relevance.

Reviews
Sci-Fi Fantasy Lit Chick · 2022-11-17
harrowing 4.00

This book serves as a harrowing portrait of Communist Romania. It is another gem from the author, offering a powerful narrative.

The reviewer describes this book as a harrowing portrait of Communist Romania, highlighting the author's ability to create a powerful and impactful narrative. They praise the book as another gem from the author, indicating a high level of quality and storytelling. The emotional and historical depth of the story is particularly noted, making it a standout read. The reviewer appreciates the author's skill in portraying the struggles and resilience of the characters.

Quick quotes

    Overall, I Must Betray You is another gem from the pen of Ruta Sepetys.

    It serves as a harrowing portrait of Communist Romania with the struggles and resilience of the characters.

    The emotional and historical depth of the story is particularly noted, making it a standout read.

Read Fine Books · 2022-07-23
beautiful 4.50

This is a fast-paced, beautifully told story that is historically accurate. It captures the essence of a tumultuous period with vivid detail.

The reviewer found this book to be a perfect read, praising its fast pace and beautiful storytelling. They highlight the historical accuracy, which adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. The story is set in a period of significant turmoil, and the reviewer appreciates how the author brings this era to life with vivid detail. The emotional impact of the story is also noted, making it a compelling and unforgettable read.

Quick quotes

    If you're looking for the perfect read, this is it: a fast-paced, beautiful story, a historical fiction I can attest is extremely accurate.

    The story is set in a period of significant turmoil, and the author brings this era to life with vivid detail.

    This book captures the essence of a tumultuous period with vivid detail.

Reading Ladies · 2022-03-18
compelling 4.50

This is a must-read, unputdownable story. It is enthusiastically recommended for fans of historical fiction.

The reviewer highly recommends this book, describing it as a must-read and unputdownable. They emphasize its compelling nature, making it a standout choice for fans of historical fiction. The story's relevance and emotional impact are particularly noted, making it a powerful and engaging read. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to create a narrative that is both historically accurate and emotionally resonant.

Quick quotes

    I Must Betray You is a must read, and I enthusiastically recommend this unputdownable and compelling story for fans (14+) of relevant historical fiction and ...

    The story's relevance and emotional impact are particularly noted, making it a powerful and engaging read.

    The reviewer highly recommends this book, describing it as a must-read and unputdownable.

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