A review by readingvoyage
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys

emotional informative medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

“How could we expect others to feel our pain or her our cries for help when all we could do was whisper?” 
 
This novel is set in Romania in 1989 during the last year of communist rule under Ceausescu. I’m old enough to remember Perestroika, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the change of governments in the former Eastern Bloc countries. Ceausescu in Romania was the last holdout, and the West was shocked by the the atrocities and living conditions found. 
 
What is brilliant about this story is that it is told through 17-year-old Cristian’s eyes. He would very much like to be a writer one day (although it wouldn’t be possible under Communist rule). He sees his world clearly, and through his daily encounters, he paints a picture of everyday life during 1989. What really struck me is how the Securitate (the secret police agency) created an environment where no one could trust anyone. 
 
This novel is compelling and one I will remember for a very long time. Bravo, Ruta Sepetys.
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