The Betrayed

The Betrayed is a novel about sisterhood, familial duties, and love set in the Philippines during dictatorship and political upheaval. It follows two sisters who love the same man, and their conflicting passions threaten to lead them to betray each other and their father's values. The book explores the corruption of politics and the human condition, and is a complex and luminous read.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 10 February 2022
Publisher: Europa Editions (UK) Ltd

The Betrayed is a captivating novel that delves into the intricate dynamics of sisterhood, familial duties, and love, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Philippine history. The story revolves around two sisters, Pilar and Lali, who are deeply devoted to each other but find themselves torn apart by their conflicting passions and desires. As dictatorship and political upheaval engulf the country, the sisters' paths diverge, leading them to betray not only each other but also the values and principles that their father stood for.

Pilar, the younger sister, is a shy and idealistic individual who is determined to carry on her father's fight against the regime. She is deeply committed to the cause of democracy and social justice, and believes that her actions can make a difference in the lives of those around her. However, her resolve is tested when she falls in love with Arturo, the godson of the dictator. Arturo represents everything that Pilar opposes, but she cannot help but be drawn to him due to his charm and charisma.

On the other hand, Lali, the older sister, reacts to the political turmoil by marrying Arturo. She sees it as a way to gain power and influence and to protect herself and her family from the dangers that lurk in the unstable political landscape. Lali is a complex character who is driven by her own desires and ambitions, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals. However, her actions have consequences, and she soon finds herself caught up in the web of corruption and deceit that surrounds the dictator's regime.

As the novel unfolds, the reader is taken on a journey through the Philippines' troubled history, from the Marcos dictatorship to the establishment of the present totalitarian regime. The author expertly layers the many aspects of the human condition, exploring the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. The Betrayed is a complex and luminous novel that offers a profound reflection on the nature of power, corruption, and the human spirit.

Through the characters of Pilar and Lali, the novel explores the themes of sisterhood, loyalty, and the sacrifices that people are willing to make for the ones they love. Pilar's dedication to her father's cause and her willingness to sacrifice her own desires for the greater good serve as a testament to the strength of sisterhood and the power of love. Lali's decision to marry Arturo, despite her moral qualms, highlights the lengths that people will go to protect themselves and their families.

The Betrayed also raises important questions about the nature of democracy and the role of the individual in a political system. Pilar's idealism and her belief in the power of social justice are challenged by the realities of political corruption and the abuse of power. Lali's decision to align herself with the regime raises questions about the moral compromises that people are willing to make in order to achieve their goals.

The novel's setting in the Philippines adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the story. The historical context provides a backdrop for the characters' struggles and allows the reader to understand the political and social climate that shaped their lives. The author's portrayal of the Philippines is nuanced and complex, capturing the beauty and resilience of the country while also highlighting the darker aspects of its history.

In conclusion, The Betrayed is a captivating novel that delves into the complex dynamics of sisterhood, familial duties, and love, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Philippine history. Through the characters of Pilar and Lali, the novel offers a profound reflection on the nature of power, corruption, and the human spirit. The Betrayed is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of living in a political system that is driven by ambition and greed.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 135 x 329 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787703896