Books 7-10: Twisted Series by Ana Huang
7: Twisted Love
Summary: The protagonist of the novel, Ava Chen, has known Alex Volkov for a long time because he is her brother’s closest friend. As she becomes lost, her brother arranges for Alex to pick her up, which sparks their romance. Recently, Ava’s brothers moved out of the area, and now that Alex has moved in next door, she is in need of protection—at times, even from herself. Ava isn’t too fond of Alex since he is nasty and domineering, but she feels that there is more to him than just brash alpha arrogance, and she is determined to show that he is capable of being a normal person. A spark develops between Ava and Alex as she goes about trying to elicit a response from him.
Ava and Alex are aware of how dangerous their romantic relationship can be. But she is also conscious of the unexpected direction their relationship is going in. More secrets are accumulating around Alex and Ava as their relationship slowly blossoms, and when those secrets are finally disclosed, they could pose a threat to everything they value most. But there are instances when love is strong enough to prevail over all obstacles.
First impressions: The first book in the Twisted series, Twisted Love, is also my introduction to this author’s writing, and I had a great time with it. I was pretty interested in this series because it had been well publicised online, particularly on bookstagram, and I had been wanting to read more new adult contemporary books. The content of this book was very different from what I had anticipated; the blurb gave me the impression that it would be one particular type of current fiction. It undoubtedly has a more edgy vibe. But, I really enjoyed the kind of story we got here, and I can’t wait to read more in this series.
What I loved:. Twisted Love had such a creative setup. This one was undoubtedly extremely entertaining. What is revealed and what we witness between the characters piqued my interest. There is also a good deal of angst, particularly in the first half, but I’ve recently become obsessed with the enemies-to-lovers cliché, so the tension between them really resonated with me. Their relationship fascinated me since they couldn’t be more different from one another. Yet ultimately, it was a success.
The protagonist is so dominant and haughty, but he also has a dark, mysterious side that gives the narrative a little more edge. Hence, if you enjoy gloomy romance, this story will also whet your hunger. I adored how the story had a Grumpy Sunshine vibe.
Impact on teens: The book’s themes of toxic relationships, emotional abuse, and manipulation can have a significant impact on teenagers who are reading it. It can help them recognize warning signs of unhealthy relationships and the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing their own mental and emotional well-being.
On the other hand, it’s essential to note that “Twisted Love” is a work of fiction, and while it can raise awareness about the dangers of toxic relationships, it’s not a substitute for seeking professional help if needed. Moreover, parents and educators should make sure that teens who are reading the book understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships and know how to identify when a relationship has crossed the line into emotional abuse or manipulation.
Overall rating:4.5
Book 8: Twisted Games
Summary: The Story begins with Bridget hiring a new bodyguard because her previous one has other responsibilities. Suddenly, there is a strong attraction between Rhys and Bridget, and although Rhys tries to keep it as professional as he can, Bridget makes it difficult for him. Bridget and Rhys first had a difficult time getting along because they are such complete opposites of one another. Yet over time, something deeper begins to develop between them, which develops into a close friendship before evolving into something far deeper than either of them had anticipated.
But then, Bridget becomes the successor to the crown when Bridget’s brother decides to abdicate. However, a marriage statute that prohibits Bridget from marrying anybody who is not a royal puts an end to the burgeoning affection that has been developing between Bridget and Rhys. But as Rhys and Bridget work through their problems, they come to understand that their love is more powerful than any rule of justice.
First impressions: I don’t know why it took me so long to read Twisted Games, which is the second novel in the “Twisted” series. I like Twisted Games and was eager to see where the writers would take this tale because their plot was hinted at in the book. Yet I have to admit that Twisted Games exceeded my expectations in so many ways. It was so excellent that I really gave this book a five-star rating! I genuinely believe that I cannot commend this book highly enough in my review. This book has a lot to offer and it delivered in every way I look for in a good romance.
What I loved: God, I don’t even know where to begin with this book! I was intrigued by Rhys only from the brief glimpse we saw of him in Twisted Love. Oh my, Ana Huang told a tale that will be remembered for all time. The bodyguard trope seems to appeal to me for some reason. I adore heroes who will destroy the world in order to save the heroine, not only because it is their duty, but also because they simply love the heroine too much to find another way to show it. You also get such intense chemistry and steam between Bridget and Rhys that you won’t be able to put the book down once you start reading.
Overall rating: 5
Book 9: Twisted Hate
Summary: Josh Chen is gorgeous, brash, and quickly on his way to becoming a hotshot doctor. Jules Ambrose is the only woman he hasn’t been able to seduce. The stunning redhead has been a pain in his side ever since they first met, but she also dominates his thoughts like no other woman ever has.
He suggests an arrangement called “enemies with benefits” with clear restrictions in order to get her out of his system once and for all as their hostility erupts into one unforgettable night. Exactly the opposite. Free of restrictions. And virtually no romantic relationships.Jules Ambrose is a former party girl who is outgoing and driven to succeed in her goal of passing the bar exam for attorneys. No matter how attractive he is, she doesn’t need to go connected with a doctor who puts the SUFFER in insufferable.
Yet as she learns more about him, she comes to see that the man she has long detested is more complex than first appears. the brother of her best friend. her adversary. And the only hope for her. Their union is one created in hell, and as the monsters from their past confront them, they must confront the facts that could either save them or undo everything they’ve accomplished.
What I loved: The incredible chemistry between Jules and Josh was my favourite aspect of this foes to lovers book. Since these two just go there, using their animosity and hatred for one another as fuel for their pleasure, Twisted Hatred is unquestionably one sizzling romance.
I adored Joshs protective nature and his clairvoyant ability to see beyond Jules’ defences. Jules as a person astonished me. I admired how Huang portrayed her as a powerful heroine who didn’t allow her past sins determine her future rather than as this weak girl. She was a motivated buddy and a law student with aspirations. Her past was indeed an intriguing turn of events. She wasn’t the typical goody-two-shoes girl, which I didn’t see coming, but I appreciated that about her.
Overall rating: 5
Book 10: Twisted Lies
Summary: He’ll say and do anything to get her, even lie. Christian Harper is a monster dressed in a nicely made suit, but he’s charming, lethal, and cunning enough to hide it. Even though he has little use for love and even less use for morals, he can’t help but feel a weird attraction to the woman who lives one level below him. She is the focus of his worst fantasies and the only conundrum he cannot resolve. He also breaks his own principles to make her a deal she can’t refuse when the chance to be closer to her presents itself. Each creature has a weak point. He owns her.
Stella Alonso is a romantic who keeps her heart in a cage. Despite her social media stardom, she is sweet, bashful, and introverted. She doesn’t have much free time or desire for a relationship because of her two jobs. Nevertheless, she is tempted to feel something for the first time in a long time when a threat from her past forces her into the arms—and home—of the most dangerous man she has ever known. Christian may be chilly, but when they’re together, he makes her feel everything.
First impressions: I was quite eager to read “Twisted Lies” after reading the other books in the Twisted series. The main character of each novel in this series, despite being a standalone, is a lady from this small circle of friends. I was therefore aware that Stella would be the subject of this book. I simply knew that I would come to enjoy this romantic plot given my knowledge of the other Twisted books in the series. I was particularly eager to read her narrative after reading a little about her character in the earlier volumes.
What I loved: Twisted Lies was undoubtedly a fantastic slow-burn love story. I have always adored Stella and Christian. My favourite character was Stella in particular. an introvert and social media influencer. Undoubtedly someone I would like. I also appreciated reading about her. Stella’s character was the one that remained the most enigmatic throughout the earlier books, and I relished every second of getting to know her better.
Overall rating: 4.5
Impact on teens for the series: I find that this series tend to be for later, teens or young adult, due to the explicit, sexual content and mature topics, and that it isn’t completely suitable for younger readers. That being said, personally, I read the book at age 17 and I found that it was quite an enjoyable read. It all depends on the teenagers, maturity level. Though that is the case for this series, I felt that this book shared a theme of strength and determination, and I find that that could be a positive impact on a Teenagers life, if they choose to read this book or not. teenagers life, if they choose to read this book or not. But overall, I 100% recommend, I found the series to be quite enjoyable, definitely a romantic read for sure!
