Twisted Games Review by Sadvika Kylash
I was pleasantly surprised by Ana Huang’s Twisted Love not long ago. Typically, I don’t rush into the next book in a series, but I felt compelled to dive into Twisted Games, the second installment in the “Twisted” series. Although this story connects with the rest of the series, it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. I knew that the main character and setting would differ from the first book, but I still hoped it would capture my interest just as much. And indeed, it did!
- Title: Twisted Games
- Author: Ana Huang
- Series: Twisted #2
- Genre: New Adult, Romance
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
How it goes!
A contemporary royal romance comes from New York Times bestselling author and BookTok sensation Ana Huang! Rhys Larsen, a stoic, brooding, and arrogant elite bodyguard, lives by two rules: 1) Protect his clients at all costs, and 2) Never get emotionally involved. He has never been tempted to break these rules—until he meets her. Bridget von Ascheberg, a princess with a stubborn streak as strong as his own, ignites a hidden passion within him that threatens to shatter all his defenses. She is everything he never expected but everything he desperately needs. Day by day, she chips away at his emotional armor, leaving him to confront a truth he can no longer ignore: He vowed to protect her, but now all he wants is to possess her. She’s his princess, his forbidden desire, and the embodiment of his deepest fantasies.
Regal, strong-willed, and bound by the responsibilities of royalty, Princess Bridget yearns for the freedom to live and love on her terms. But when her brother abdicates the throne, she faces the daunting prospect of a loveless, politically motivated marriage and a crown she never wanted. As she navigates the treacheries of her new role, she must also hide her growing desire for the one man she can’t have—her bodyguard, Rhys. Their forbidden love is as dangerous as it is inevitable, threatening to unravel a kingdom and doom them both.
Rhys and Bridget
In this book, the narrative alternates between Bridget and Rhys, beginning when they first meet. Bridget, already familiar to readers from Twisted Love as one of Ava’s best friends, is now preparing to become queen—a role she initially resists. We follow her journey from her last days in college to her eventual coronation. Although reluctant at first, Bridget gradually accepts her responsibilities and grows into her role as queen, determined to make meaningful changes. Rhys, on the other hand, is a man of few words, with his emotions tightly guarded. Through his relationship with Bridget, he learns to open up and loosen his rigid control. Both characters complement each other beautifully, driven by their determination to achieve their goals.
Twisted Games Review
The writing, while not flawless, is engaging and easy to follow. The alternating chapters between Bridget and Rhys work well, giving us insight into both characters and keeping the story dynamic. Occasionally, the point of view shifts within a chapter. Allowing us to see the same moment from both perspectives, which enhances the development of both the characters and the story.
Although Twisted Games is more character-driven, it does have a plot with some depth, though perhaps less so than the first book in the series. Huang focuses more on emotions and reflections, which I found effective. The story isn’t action-packed but still maintains a compelling narrative. I was hooked from start to finish, eager to see how things would unfold for Bridget and Rhys. The tone is mostly lighthearted, despite touching on some serious topics, making it an enjoyable read without feeling too heavy. While there are fewer intense scenes than in Twisted Love, the focus on the forbidden romance remains strong.
In conclusion, Twisted Games was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The character development was satisfying, and while the plot may not be groundbreaking, it was still engaging. The chemistry between Bridget and Rhys was palpable, enhanced by the alternating perspectives. The writing may not be exceptional, but it’s undeniably addictive. I’m eager to continue this series as soon as possible.
You can read the 1st book – Twisted Love Review!