Deceived

Description

In 1993 Sarah Smith was a happy and successful student. At her local pub, she met barman Robert Freegard. Peace was shattered when an IRA bomb went off close to her college and in the aftermath of this terrorist attack Freegard revealed his 'true' identity to Sarah and two of her friends - he was a MI5 spy investigating IRA cells in the area. Because of the time they had spent together and their knowledge of his true identity, Sarah, John and Maria were in mortal danger. Freegard convinced the students that they needed to go into hiding or risk being killed. Thus began a spine-chilling story. For Sarah became a fugitive on the run - living in slums, in cars, sleeping rough in parks, half starved - for ten years. During this time she lived under multiple pseudonyms and worked menial jobs. Freegard seemed the only person she could trust; he became her lifeline, her saviour and her keeper. So when, ten years later, police arrived at the house Sarah was cleaning, she could not believe what they were telling her: Freegard was not an MI5 agent, he was a conman and she was one of many victims.

Promotion info

This book moves misery memoir up a notch with an extra twist There was blanket press coverage when Robert Freegard was convicted in September 2005, but this is the first time his longest-suffering victim has told her story A powerful combination of Sarah's tragic story but also a fascinating study of Robert Freegard's methods of brainwashing and his deconstruction of personalities and identities Freegard's case was kept in the public eye by his appeal and a drama series planned for 2007

Author description

Over a ten-year period from 1993 Sarah Smith was brainwashed, starved and defrauded by Robert Freegard. She gave evidence against him at his trial and he was convicted on numerous charges. Sarah continues to rebuild her life. Kate Snell is a writer and film maker, who has written a bestselling biography of Prinicess Diana and directed award-winning documentaries. She manages her own independent television company. Kate Snell is a writer and film maker, who has written a bestselling biography of Prinicess Diana and directed award-winning documentaries. She manages her own independent television company.