Review: "Twisted" by Lola Smirnova

Back in the 90’s, the corrupt post-Soviet Ukraine with its faltering economy, is thrown into a devastating depression. Times are hard. Opportunities are scarce. Three eager young sisters – Natalia, Lena and Julia - dream of a better life and weigh their options: do they stay and struggle like their parents, or join scores of their compatriots in the sex trade in glittering western European cities, who earn in a night what they’d take several months to earn at home? Naive and tempted by the allure of 'quick' money, the girls set off on an adventure that changes their lives forever... Can they stay out of trouble enough to fulfill their ambitions? Can they hold on to their idealism in a world where depravity and danger are constant companions? How far are they willing to go to make a buck? Inspired by real-life events, Twisted is a fascinating New Adult SUSPENSE THRILLER about vulnerability, courage and the art of making a living in the sex trade...

I received a free copy of this book from Book Publicity Services in exchange for my honest review.

When I was first approached by Book Publicity Services to see if I would be interested in reviewing this book, I was immediately intrigued by the premise.  Not long previously I had attempted and failed to read three other New Adult titles where the MC was either selling her virginity or entering into a mistress situation for money.  In all three cases, I had to abandon the books because the writing was awful and absolutely nothing about them rang even remotely true. With "Twisted", I thought finally I'd be reading an authentic account of prostitution from someone who has been there and knows what they're talking about.  And holy crap, that's exactly what I got!

This book is absolutely not for the faint of heart.  It took me quite a long time to read it because I found I needed to take frequent breaks.  My heart broke over and over again for Julia, and even though "Twisted" is fictional, I can imagine many girls get into situations like Julia did in real life every day.  That is just so scary, but truly eye opening.  I'm glad this book has been written and is available for anyone wanting to read a more realistic portrayal of prostitution.  

I'm not sure whether other readers will appreciate "Twisted", but I really hope they will, as long as they heed the warning on the front cover.  As for me, I am glad I read it, but I'm not sure I have it in me to finish the trilogy.  We'll see, I'm not ruling it out, but for now, "Twisted" will remain an  intense yet unforgettable read for me.

My rating: