Honor Bound

My Journey to Hell and Back with Amanda Knox

By: Raffaele Sollecito, Andrew Gumbel

Narrated by: Seth Numrich

An inspiration behind the Hulu original series The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox.

Accused . . . Targeted . . . Sentenced . . .Wrongfully Imprisoned.

Raffaele Sollecito and Amanda Knox were the victims in a world-famous trial so bizarre that it defied all reason. Charged with a crime neither could fathom, let alone perpetrate, they spent four excruciating years in prison before their final acquittal. Now, for the first time since, Raffaele reveals what really happened between him and his then girlfriend before, during, and after the brutal murder of Amanda's roommate Meredith Kercher.

With startling candor, Raffaele shares intimate details about his changing relationship with Amanda as their giddy romance turned into endless harrowing interrogations. As Amanda’s only solid alibi, Raffaele came under unrelenting pressure—from his own family and lawyers as much as the police and prosecution—to change his testimony. Doing so might have saved him, but would almost certainly have condemned Amanda to a lifetime in jail. He refused.

Sifting through the wild accusations depicting him as a druggie, a porn addict, and reckless thrill seeker, Raffaele shows how these stories were gross distortions of trivial episodes. With unflinching honesty, he takes readers behind the scenes of the trial of the century—and inside the day-to-day hell of prison life. Finally, and poignantly, Raffaele talks about his first face-to-face reunion with Amanda following their release.

Emotional, disturbing, and ultimately galvanizing, this memoir is a riveting account of an egregious miscarriage of justice, of public condemnation, and personal survival. And, at its heart, it is a tragic love story about a young man who trusted his feelings, refused to give up hope, and ultimately triumphed.

Finally Raffaelle's side!

What made the experience of listening to Honor Bound the most enjoyable?

I think the fact that his story backs up everything Amanda said- getting his perspective was enlightening.

What did you like best about this story?

The fact that no matter what, he would not sell Amanda out.

Have you listened to any of Seth Numrich’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No- I have not heard Seth Numrich before.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I think the verdict that set them free- it was quite emotional.

Honor Bound

Well written, though short. While Amanda's memoir covers many of the events more thoroughly, Raffaele's account had a bit more heart and felt less censored. He seems like a sweet, idealistic, romantic, normal guy, with an admirable sense of honour.

Truly a remarkable young man

If you could sum up Honor Bound in three words, what would they be?

Honor, patience and faith

What was the most compelling aspect of this narrative?

I thought I was pretty well versed on this case before I read this book but I was still surprised by a few facts in this memoir.

Giulia Bongiorno maybe my new personal hero. Judge Hellman is up there also.

Have you listened to any of Seth Numrich’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This was my first audiobook read by Seth Numrich and I enjoyed his pace and voice, I would listen to him again.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

I think the title of the book says it all - Honor bound.

Any additional comments?

Fast paced and straight forward. It was compelling to see Raphaelle's point of view, largely viewed as merely pawn in this tragic series of events; he is brutally honest and doesn't always paint himself in the best light but is unwavering in his pursuit to do the right thing. All for a girl he had known for barely more than a week.

This book also details the immense cost this trial took on his family which was touching, I particularly felt for his sister. Their father should be proud of having raised such upstanding children.

I was always amazed at how easily he could have chosen to save or at least help himself but stuck to the truth. He possesses qualities that are increasingly rare in this day and age.

Enjoyed immensely!

I’m so glad I decided to read this!

I read Amanda’s book and I was just so fascinated by this case. I don’t know why but I wasn’t hyped to read Raffaeles book initially but finally I decided to go for it and I was NOT disappointed! Highly recommend!

Raffaele Explains His Side

Would you listen to Honor Bound again? Why?

Yes

What did you like best about this story?

It was extremely nice to get more Raffaele, than Amanda. He explains his thoughts, fears and frustrations all the way through.

Have you listened to any of Seth Numrich’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No

What’s the most interesting tidbit you’ve picked up from this book?

How much his family went through while he was in prison.