Discovering a new author..

Discovering a new author of unputdownable books, is like being given a ticket to travel to a new place you hadn’t heard of before. Earlier this year I was introduced to Ruta Sepetys, a Lithuanian-American writer of historical fiction. From what I can see online, her first book was published in 2011 so this feels like a belated discovery on my part. Better late than never right? I have now read two of Sepetys’ books and they were both five stars from me - I am looking forward to reading more from her.

One of the two I have read is Salt to the Sea which is a haunting yet beautiful tapestry of narratives set against the grim backdrop of World War II. Sepetys masterfully weaves together the stories of four characters, each running from a past and converging towards one of history's most tragic maritime disasters: the sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff. I really like that Sepetys writes about parts of history that are less well known - at least I was not aware of the sinking of this ship! This is something that sets her books apart, her meticulous research and beautiful storytelling of lesser-known events.

Sepetys' strength lies in her ability to create relatable characters amidst the chaos of war. Joana, Florian, Emilia, and Alfred each carry their own burdens, secrets, and hopes. Their interlacing tales allow us to see the war from different lenses, showing that in times of crisis, humanity's true nature—both good and bad—shines through.

This novel is not only an ode to those who perished but also a celebration of hope and resilience. As I was, I am sure you will be left with a deep appreciation for the intricacies of history and the profound connections that bind us all.

The other book I have read by Sepetys is I Must Betray You. For me, this was one of those books that I wanted to abandon all of my responsibilities for and just read and read and read.

This book is set in Romania in 1989. Communist regimes are crumbling across Europe. Seventeen year old Cristian Florescu dreams of becoming a writer, but Romanians aren’t free to dream. They are bound by rules and force. Amidst the tyrannical dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu, Cristian is blackmailed by the secret police to become an informer. He is left with two choices - betray everyone he knows and loves, or use his position to undermine those in power.

This book is an eye opening, well researched account of communist Romania - again, another time in our history that I wasn’t overly familiar with. This book will keep you guessing throughout, and will make you suspicious of everyone. Who are informers? Who can be trusted?

Have you read any books by Ruta Sepetys? What did you think? I would love to hear your recommendations because life is too short to read bad books.