Reading through the first look, I get 1984 vibes from how the culture is described to be secretive, surveillance everywhere, and illicit thinking. I like the aspect of truth that is presented in this book. The reader of 1984 is led to plunge into a skeptical fictional world, whereas this book has real life timelines, and places and cultures. Even the character's feel real, well-rounded, 3-d. I cannot wait to read more. I can't believe I'm using this term, but 'I Must Betray You' is definitely unputdownable! Ruta has definitely been my favorite author for a while, and she's more than secured her spot for yet another couple of years.