4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Behind Closed Doors (2): Dana's Story by A.L. Smith is a eye-opening novel about human trafficking. The picture we get in our head about human trafficking is often girls being kidnapped and taken overseas. However, there are many silent victims of human trafficking right under our noses and they are being sold by members of their family. Although this book is listed as being the second one in a series, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
There had never been much love between Dana and her mom. When Dana's father leaves them, things take a dramatic turn for the worse. At 12 years of age, her mom tells her to get in the car with a strange man and do whatever he tells her to do. When she gets home after the nightmarish ordeal, she sees the man give her mom $300. She thinks she has no way out. For years she lives in silence about what her mom makes her do in order for them to have the latest and greatest that money can buy. Thankfully the abuse comes to an end, but Dana has some choices to make that will determine the direction of her life. Will she make the right choices or will she let the past keep her from achieving her dreams? You will have to read it for yourself if you want to find out.
I had a hard time putting this book down. When I did, I couldn't stop thinking about it and wondering what would happen next. It is a gripping story with a few twists and turns that I did not anticipate. It actually reminds me of The Shawshank Redemption. It has a completely different storyline, but the feel of the book took me back to that movie.
I was initially worried that I would not be able to finish this book because of the subject matter. However, the author handled the issue well by giving enough information to know what was happening without becoming explicit. Still, there is some language and adult content so I do not recommend it for children or teens.
The story is written in first person from Dana's point of view. Because the story spans many years, it makes me think of an autobiography. Halfway through, the book starts to switch between Dana and her friend, Alex's point of view. It threw me by surprise and I do not think switching POV actually adds anything to the story, but I got used to it by the end. One time the story actually switches from first person to third, but I do not think it was intentional.
Dana is an outstanding character. Even though she is a victim, she does not wallow in self-pity. She has a determination and boldness that keeps you rooting for her even when she makes some awful decisions. The other characters are also well-rounded and you either love or hate them, depending on their role in the story.
Unfortunately there are a few grammatical errors. However, there are not enough to dampen the brilliance of the story so I am giving Behind Closed Doors (2): Dana's Story a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. It is the best book I have read in a really long time. I think anyone who is interested in learning more about human trafficking or just looking for a good read should check this book out.
******
Behind Closed Doors (2): Dana's Story
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like Rachaelamb1's review? Post a comment saying so!