Twisted

Compare and contrast McIntire’s depictions of sex and violence. What do scenes featuring these physical activities have in common? What imagery and other literary devices does the novel use to infuse emotion into these charged moments?

Examine Yasmin’s falling in love as a process of self-realization. What discoveries does Yasmin make about herself in the course of her awakening passion for Julian?

What is the relationship between Twisted and its source material? How does it compare to other retellings of the story of Aladdin and the lamp?

Analyze the novel’s interest in having, making, and upholding a choice. How do the central and supporting characters embody this theme? Does the novel offer different perspectives on the power of choice? Why or why not?

Discuss the role of the lamp as a magical artifact, plot device, and/or MacGuffin. What purpose does the lamp serve? What does its final placement in Ali’s coffin say about its symbolic value?

Examine the connections the novel makes between abuse, pain, punishment, and pleasure. What efforts does the novel take to portray BDSM sexual expression in an ethical way? Do any of McIntire’s choices undercut this representation?

Discuss setting in the novel. Why do so many scenes take place in confined domestic spaces, particularly homes and bedrooms? What focus does this give the novel, and what is the effect on the reading experience?

Compare this novel to other books in the Never After series. What similarities in theme and message do you see emerging across this series?