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I Must Betray You

A powerful, heart-breaking thriller based on real events. The winner of the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers' Choice Medal for Writing 2023
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( 95,771 ratings, 13,837 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys is a gripping historical novel set in 1989 Romania, where a young teenage boy is forced into becoming an informer for the oppressive regime. As he navigates the treacherous world of espionage and betrayal, he must decide whether to risk everything for freedom or be swallowed by fear and oppression. The story vividly portrays the challenges of life under Ceausescu's dictatorship, offering a powerful reflection on courage and resilience.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are intrigued by stories of resilience and courage set against historical backdrops. It vividly portrays life under a totalitarian regime in 1989 Romania, inviting you to witness the gripping journey of a teenager navigating betrayal and resistance. It may appeal to you with its blend of suspense, historical insight, and a compelling coming-of-age narrative.

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I Must Betray You

Trapped by an evil dictatorship, will Cristian be forced to betray his family or will he risk everything he loves to resist? A powerful, heart-breaking thriller based on real events, I Must Betray You is the winner of the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers' Choice Medal for Writing 2023

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Trapped by an evil dictatorship, will Cristian be forced to betray his family or will he risk everything he loves to resist? A powerful, heart-breaking thriller based on real events.

I Must Betray You is a gripping tale set against the backdrop of a repressive dictatorship. Cristian has lived his entire life under the constant threat of fear imposed by this brutal regime. When the secret police blackmail him, Cristian faces an agonising choice: save the life of his ailing grandfather by informing on his family, or risk his life—and theirs—by standing up to oppression.

At 17, Cristian dreams of freedom but feels lost in a landscape of perpetual suspicion. Can he trust his best friend, his girlfriend, or even his own family?

This novel is closely based on the real events of the Romanian Revolution of 1989. It is a tour de force from Ruta Sepetys, the acclaimed author of Salt to the Sea, winner of the Carnegie Medal.

Winner of the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers' Choice Medal for Writing 2023

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys is lauded for its compelling blend of extensive research, emotional depth, and narrative skill, delivering a gripping and energetic story. Critics highlight its thrilling and thought-provoking nature, praising its ability to captivate readers with a tense atmosphere and powerful ending.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781444967616

Publisher: Hachette Children's Group

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 August 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Hodder Children's Books

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 26.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 236g

Pages: 336

About the Author

Ruta Sepetys was born and raised in Michigan, USA to parents of Lithuanian origin. She is deeply fascinated by hidden moments in recent European history and has woven that brilliantly into her remarkable books. Her passion for global connectivity has led to her presenting to NATO, the European Parliament, the US Capitol and embassies worldwide.

Her third novel, Salt to the Sea, won the prestigious Carnegie Medal. Ruta lives in Tennessee, USA with her husband.

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