A review by c_serpent
I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys

challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This was very well written. However, the first 60% were just <i>constant</i> fear, oppressive and claustrophobic observation, and paranoia. Honestly, it was almost impossible to get through.

When the actual revolution started, and everyone was being tortured and shot and dragged around by police and imprisoned, things were actually happening, and even if they were horrible things, it became possible to continue the story. Anything is better than just paranoid obsessing over whether or not your family and friends are betraying you. (They always, always are.)

This book was well written, and it was hard to get through, and I didn't enjoy it. I'm gonna give Sepetys another chance, because her writing is great. But boy howdy. Wow. I'm glad this book is done.

Three stars for Cristian and Liliana. Two stars have been removed because this book might have shortened my lifespan.

Total score: 3/5
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