Spring 1917 - the war has been raging for over two and a half years and neither the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary and Turkey) nor the Entente (Britain, France, Russia and Italy) are any closer to a decisive victory. In Russia, the Revolution and enforced abdication of the Tsar has left the country in the shaky hands of the Provisional Government but as the Bolsheviks begin to seize power it is clear that behind the scenes something rather sinister is occurring. Both Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany, and Karl, the new Emperor of Austria-Hungary, are eager to pursue peace but the United States' entry into the war thwarts their efforts and leaves them convinced that the true aim of the conflict is the destruction of their monarchies. Based on actual events, 'The Betrayal' is the third book of the 'Shattered Crowns' trilogy which follows the tragic story of the royalties who sought peace throughout the bloodiest conflict of the 20th century.