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

By: Ruta Sepetys

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Paperback | 14 July 2025 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Paperback
336 Pages

Age
12 - 14

Dimensions(cm)
2.2 x 12.9 x 19.6

Paperback

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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.

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

Cristian has lived his entire life in the grip of a repressive dictatorship. The country is governed by fear. When the secret police blackmail him, Cristian has an impossible choice. Save the life of his sick grandfather by informing on his family, or risk his life - and all of theirs - by resisting?

At 17, Cristian dreams of being free but doesn't know where to turn. In this climate of constant suspicion, can he trust his best friend, his girlfriend or even his family?

Closely based on the real events of the Romanian Revolution of 1989, this is a powerful, heart-breaking thriller from the author of Salt to the Sea, winner of the Carnegie Medal.

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.

Industry Reviews

Sepetys brilliantly blends a staggering amount of research with heart, craft, and insight in a way very few writers can . . . the novel crackles with energy. . . The last line will leave readers gasping. Compulsively readable and briliant. - Kirkus, starred review

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