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Stealing Candy
Forced teen prostitution in America is on the rise and is being exposed through the media. Allison Hobbs offers a provocative look into the lives of three young girls who have been forced into sex slavery by a homicidal pimp, and the one woman who risks everything to try and save their lives. Stealing Candy by Allison Hobbs is a shocking novel about human sex trafficking. Three teenage girls from very different backgrounds have been abducted by a pimp who refers to them as “his candy” while treating them with cruelty and contempt. Routinely battered, emotionally manipulated, the girls are brainwashed into accepting sexual servitude as their hopeless plight in life. Saleema Sparks has made it her life’s mission to provide a sanctuary for troubled teen-age girls. With dwindling personal funds, she may have to close the doors to her one-woman operation—Head Up—a safe haven for young women in crisis. But when Portia, a member of Head Up, goes missing, Saleema does not accept that the troubled teen is simply a runaway. She is compelled to look for Portia, forcing an apathetic community to open their eyes and lend a hand in the search for the abducted teen. But can she help Portia and the other sex-trafficked girls break free from the malicious pimp who has abducted them? Determined to save three young lives, Saleema risks everything to get the girls out of the pimp’s murderous grasp.
353 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2010
21 people are currently reading
606 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 24, 2012
This was one of THE BEST books I have read. I recently picked this book up and read it for the 2nd time after almost a year and half ago, this time more slowly and I definitely read parts that I didn't even remember the first time...
This book is gritty, spoken with truth, and it describes exactly what is going on today with human trafficked victims. This book is very dear to my heart, because I am in school to become a social worker so that I can work in this particular field. This book has touched my soul!!!
This book is gritty, spoken with truth, and it describes exactly what is going on today with human trafficked victims. This book is very dear to my heart, because I am in school to become a social worker so that I can work in this particular field. This book has touched my soul!!!
May 21, 2017
I don't know if I was ready for this book, because of the deep content. Being the mother of a 15 year old daughter, I don't think anything could've prepared me for child abduction which became teen prostitution. But, like anything else, I had to put on my big girl panties and learn more about a social issue that is not receiving enough media coverage.
The methods used to deceive these young girls are horrific…to say the least! Add parents, aunts, godparents, friends and concerned citizens, we must educate tomorrow's future; and protect them…by any means necessary. Tell them why they are not allowed to go on every outing, to every concert or attend every party. They'll be upset in the beginning, but thank you in the end.
Many feel that it doesn't affect them, until it's someone in their family or close friend's family. This was evident with the senior members of Portia's community. Thankfully, they came together before it was too late.
I applaud @allisonhobbsbestsellingauthor for addressing this issue and give it 💎💎💎💎💎. I highly recommend that all mothers of teenage daughters read this book and don't forget to leave a review.
We must protect our girls!
The methods used to deceive these young girls are horrific…to say the least! Add parents, aunts, godparents, friends and concerned citizens, we must educate tomorrow's future; and protect them…by any means necessary. Tell them why they are not allowed to go on every outing, to every concert or attend every party. They'll be upset in the beginning, but thank you in the end.
Many feel that it doesn't affect them, until it's someone in their family or close friend's family. This was evident with the senior members of Portia's community. Thankfully, they came together before it was too late.
I applaud @allisonhobbsbestsellingauthor for addressing this issue and give it 💎💎💎💎💎. I highly recommend that all mothers of teenage daughters read this book and don't forget to leave a review.
We must protect our girls!
August 28, 2015
I truly enjoyed this book! It got my attention from the first page. Allison Hobbs really outdid herself with this novel. It was well written and the characters were well developed and colorful.
This man name Bullet just got out prison and has the bright idea to kidnap a young underage girl for a quick come up. After the kidnap this story took me on a drama filled emotional roller coaster ride. There was never dull a moment even with Saleema. Did I say I enjoyed this book. . every last page! This book will make all mothers want to keep their daughters at home.
If you want a good drama pageturner read get this one!
This man name Bullet just got out prison and has the bright idea to kidnap a young underage girl for a quick come up. After the kidnap this story took me on a drama filled emotional roller coaster ride. There was never dull a moment even with Saleema. Did I say I enjoyed this book. . every last page! This book will make all mothers want to keep their daughters at home.
If you want a good drama pageturner read get this one!
March 13, 2017
This book gives you a lot to think about. it's graphic and very emotional, but very heavy material especially if you have teen girls. totally worth the read.
September 16, 2010
I've come to expect the best from Allison Hobbs' and I wasn't disappointed with this. I think she's doing a great thing getting readers involved and more knowledge about the subject she touches on here. Besides a few editing mistakes and a few snide comments that didn't do anything for the story the book is great.
It's a pet peeve of mine when an author sticks in a 'real life' subject. Obama just doesn't belong in an urban fiction book. He doesn't belong in any fictional book - it's just plain weird. the only problem I ever had with The Coldest Winter Ever was when I read about the author - in the authors own book. Straight weird if you ask me.
Anyway, the comment between people at the meeting about how a black girl abduction goes unnoticed while a white girls would be all over the news - how did that progress the story? It didn't. It takes away from it for any intelligent person reading it because they know this isn't true. It's just not factual. It smacks of racism actually.
Those are the only aspects of the book that bothered me. The talented writing is there - it always is with Hobbs' books. The moral to the story and the premise, the characters - everything is on point as always. in my opinion Hobbs' is by far the best female author in the genre. The potential is there for genre crossing - she could definitely appeal to a much larger audience - with a few changes. The conversations between the characters all felt real.
Oh, one other small thing - I like when the covers match the character and have to assume the girl on the cover here is Gianna. Yet she doesn't match the story. She seems to be taking a casual stroll down an alleyway instead of fleeing a pimp. I think the cover would have been better had she had a more fearful look on her face, maybe glancing behind her, and wearing the clothes she was described as having on in the beginning of the book.
One good thing for Philly/surrounding area readers - there are tons of street names, Fairmount Park, etc. so you can get that comfy feeling that comes from reading about areas you know and have been to.
As an end note - I wish everyone would stop seeing this world and everyone in it in black and white - you're only helping keep racism alive. Even if it's not actually racist - everything you say and do that seperates black people and white people does just that - it keeps racism going.
It's a pet peeve of mine when an author sticks in a 'real life' subject. Obama just doesn't belong in an urban fiction book. He doesn't belong in any fictional book - it's just plain weird. the only problem I ever had with The Coldest Winter Ever was when I read about the author - in the authors own book. Straight weird if you ask me.
Anyway, the comment between people at the meeting about how a black girl abduction goes unnoticed while a white girls would be all over the news - how did that progress the story? It didn't. It takes away from it for any intelligent person reading it because they know this isn't true. It's just not factual. It smacks of racism actually.
Those are the only aspects of the book that bothered me. The talented writing is there - it always is with Hobbs' books. The moral to the story and the premise, the characters - everything is on point as always. in my opinion Hobbs' is by far the best female author in the genre. The potential is there for genre crossing - she could definitely appeal to a much larger audience - with a few changes. The conversations between the characters all felt real.
Oh, one other small thing - I like when the covers match the character and have to assume the girl on the cover here is Gianna. Yet she doesn't match the story. She seems to be taking a casual stroll down an alleyway instead of fleeing a pimp. I think the cover would have been better had she had a more fearful look on her face, maybe glancing behind her, and wearing the clothes she was described as having on in the beginning of the book.
One good thing for Philly/surrounding area readers - there are tons of street names, Fairmount Park, etc. so you can get that comfy feeling that comes from reading about areas you know and have been to.
As an end note - I wish everyone would stop seeing this world and everyone in it in black and white - you're only helping keep racism alive. Even if it's not actually racist - everything you say and do that seperates black people and white people does just that - it keeps racism going.
September 6, 2011
"Stealing Candy" by Allison Hobbs was riveting, suspenseful, played with my mind and down-right dirty all at the same time. Being an avid reader, it's very rare that I discover a book that can do that all for me, but I've really suceeded here. Ms. Hobbs paints a picture that's leaves you so open and so vulnerable that you can't help, but come back for more. She sheds light on a very important social topic - sex trafficking...detailing the story of an ex-con named Bullet who believes twenty-something prostitutes are too old to mess with for his pimp game so he prefers to go for what he calls "his candy." He has stolen three underage girls and, by using manipulation, violence and head-games, has forced them into selling their "goodies" for cash to support his lifestyle, his bankroll. He eventually has them believing that they even can grow to love this life, and theirs is better off with him because nobody else cares. But, he forgot about one person...Saleema Sparks. She decides to search for one of the girls, and ends of gaining so much in the process...love, self-worth, self-examination, but she also gets murder.
"Stealing Candy" had me on the edge of my seat...even while I was grocery shopping because even though I always have my 3-year old daughter right there with me anyway, I found myself pulling her closer, making sure she was within my eyesight. My 10-year old niece was with me as well, and I kept saying to her "Stay near me...you need to stay close to me."
I give it 5 stars.
"Stealing Candy" had me on the edge of my seat...even while I was grocery shopping because even though I always have my 3-year old daughter right there with me anyway, I found myself pulling her closer, making sure she was within my eyesight. My 10-year old niece was with me as well, and I kept saying to her "Stay near me...you need to stay close to me."
I give it 5 stars.
January 4, 2012
Stealing Candy is one of those books that really makes you think. It is fiction, but yet everything about it is all too real. Allison Hobbs did a great job depicting what teen prostitution is like in America, the America that most of us will never see. These poor girls go through horrible abuse being trafficked by a psychotic pimp, and he will stop at nothing to keep them working and keep them under his watch. This book is raw, gritty and graphic. Saleema is an amazing character and she really holds the whole book together for me. There needed to be that small ray of sunshine to keep everything going amidst all the darkness. Excellent urban read with great writing and editing. Strebor Books never disappoints!
http://www.hoteatsandcoolreads.com/20...
http://www.hoteatsandcoolreads.com/20...
April 1, 2015
Stealing Candy by Allison Hobbs is a story of three teenage girls.
Gianna's parents are recently divorced and it is taking a toll on Gianna. Brielle is a single mother with an infant. Portia's mother is strung out on drugs.
Bullet is a pimp who will keep his girls in line doing whatever he pleases while I instilling fear in each of them.
Saleema Sparks provides a place for troubled girls called HEAD UP. Unfortunately, When Portia, one of the girls at the center comes up missing, Saleema is determine to find her.
The characters was so well written that this book brought so much emotions out of me.
I have never cried or felt like crying over a book until I read this book.
The story line is something that is real in this country child sex-trafficking.
This was one of the best books I read.
Gianna's parents are recently divorced and it is taking a toll on Gianna. Brielle is a single mother with an infant. Portia's mother is strung out on drugs.
Bullet is a pimp who will keep his girls in line doing whatever he pleases while I instilling fear in each of them.
Saleema Sparks provides a place for troubled girls called HEAD UP. Unfortunately, When Portia, one of the girls at the center comes up missing, Saleema is determine to find her.
The characters was so well written that this book brought so much emotions out of me.
I have never cried or felt like crying over a book until I read this book.
The story line is something that is real in this country child sex-trafficking.
This was one of the best books I read.
January 9, 2013
I found this book to be an intense read, especially concerning the subject matter. I had to put the book down several times due to the graphic descriptions of certain things. What adds to the difficulty in reading is the fact that the events in the book is taking place in society now. The author did a good job in writing from the point of view of a character who was forced into the life, fought and submitted and fought back again to regain a sense of normalcy. Sex trafficking, abduction, and forced prostitution are emotionally charged subjects that the author has proficiently brought to light in this book.
January 2, 2015
Very good read. This is the first book I read by Allison Hobbs and I was pleasantly surprised. Though this books is graphic, it definitely served its purpose of awareness as it pertains to sex trafficking. I have never read anything on this content matter so I was enthralled throughout the whole book. This book takes you on an emotional roller coaster with the protagonist. Realistic fiction at its best!
March 26, 2011
As much as I love to read its very surprising that this is a first for me to read from this author, when I finished this book I immediately started looking for more books to download from her. I especially love this book because of the strong message it had for men and women and the not so talked about human trafficking for very young girls, though sad but true I'd recommend this book anytime.
October 11, 2012
Stealing candy is a must read not only it show things that can happen in real life I was so shock that Brielle was killed I wanted all of them to live but I love Allison Hobbs books just good reading
May 3, 2012
This book was such an eye opener..what Portia went through was Terrible, Bullet was a Typical Pimp and a Bully, I loved the ending I wasnt disappointed in this story..
Read
July 30, 2011Bullet heard a lot about pimping while serving time in a penitentiary and is ready to switch trades and make big money. Before long he abducts fifteen year old Giana Strand and has his first piece of candy, Lollipop. Fellation is Lollipop's speciality because Bullet made sure to personally train her until she perfected her craft. Violence, rape, manipulation, and threats, from a front row seat we witness the destruction of Giana and the rise of Lollipop. The old Gianna seems to have completely disappeared as Stockholm syndrome kicks in. She no longer wants to escape and actually wants to have a baby by Bullet and marry him.
We are already acquainted with former prostitute turned madam Saleema Sparks. She was on track to marry one of her wealthiest customers when a deathly experience and sudden wind fall in The Climax (Zane Presents) changed her path in life. Putting the bulk of that money to good use, she is now the founder of a center for troubled teen girls called Head Up. Her mission is to give guidance and a sanctuary to these teens, saving them from a future unsavory lifestyle. When a highly problematic member named Portia goes missing nobody seems to care, not even the teen's dysfunctional family. Saleema on the other hand is very passionate about getting Portia home safely, she knows all too well the type of predators out there lurking and preying on young girls.
It seems we are reading two separate stories until slowly and gracefully they intertwine. Portia, now coined Bubbalicious is Bullet's third stolen piece of candy. Beaten into submission Bubbalicious learns to obey just like Lollipop and Skittles. Controlling three forced teen prostitutes against their will is more than Bullet can handle so he recruits another ex convict by the name of Flashy. This flamboyant queen is unbelievably jaw dropping with his high heels, false eyelashes, yet manly strength. He is absolutely the most colorful character Allison Hobbs has ever introduced us to. To make more money off the teens, Miss Flashy puts the girls in elaborate costumes and sets up sex auctions. Perverted child molesters competitively bid on the young girl they want to have their way with. The sex is unapologetically described in detail and will make you cringe. This novel becomes challenging to read in some places, yet impossible to tear your eyes from. Some scenes are so highly horrific it brought tears to my eyes. The author does such a great job of painting a vivid picture for the readers that at times I felt I was there with the girls. I wouldn't suggest this for those faint of heart or with a weak stomach.
These remarkable characters are unforgettable, I hope we get to read more about them. Although this literature is fiction it is an eye opening reality check. I'm so glad and proud that Allison Hobbs decided to bring attention to such this major issue that I rarely hear talked about pertaining to teens in this country. This novel has definitely left it's mark on me.
We are already acquainted with former prostitute turned madam Saleema Sparks. She was on track to marry one of her wealthiest customers when a deathly experience and sudden wind fall in The Climax (Zane Presents) changed her path in life. Putting the bulk of that money to good use, she is now the founder of a center for troubled teen girls called Head Up. Her mission is to give guidance and a sanctuary to these teens, saving them from a future unsavory lifestyle. When a highly problematic member named Portia goes missing nobody seems to care, not even the teen's dysfunctional family. Saleema on the other hand is very passionate about getting Portia home safely, she knows all too well the type of predators out there lurking and preying on young girls.
It seems we are reading two separate stories until slowly and gracefully they intertwine. Portia, now coined Bubbalicious is Bullet's third stolen piece of candy. Beaten into submission Bubbalicious learns to obey just like Lollipop and Skittles. Controlling three forced teen prostitutes against their will is more than Bullet can handle so he recruits another ex convict by the name of Flashy. This flamboyant queen is unbelievably jaw dropping with his high heels, false eyelashes, yet manly strength. He is absolutely the most colorful character Allison Hobbs has ever introduced us to. To make more money off the teens, Miss Flashy puts the girls in elaborate costumes and sets up sex auctions. Perverted child molesters competitively bid on the young girl they want to have their way with. The sex is unapologetically described in detail and will make you cringe. This novel becomes challenging to read in some places, yet impossible to tear your eyes from. Some scenes are so highly horrific it brought tears to my eyes. The author does such a great job of painting a vivid picture for the readers that at times I felt I was there with the girls. I wouldn't suggest this for those faint of heart or with a weak stomach.
These remarkable characters are unforgettable, I hope we get to read more about them. Although this literature is fiction it is an eye opening reality check. I'm so glad and proud that Allison Hobbs decided to bring attention to such this major issue that I rarely hear talked about pertaining to teens in this country. This novel has definitely left it's mark on me.
April 5, 2011
Stolen Innocence....
Stealing Candy By Allison Hobbs was definitely not what I've come to expect from Ms. Hobbs. Thoroughly pleased with the previous books I read by her such as Insatiable, Dangerously In Love, A Bona Fide Gold Digger, The Climax (v. 2) I knew that when cracking open one of her novels I'd find a story filled with erotica, kinkiness and every once in a while a slightly disturbed female character. Stealing Candy provided none of the aforementioned instead Ms. Hobbs weaved a tale about a pimp named Bullet and the three girls he victimized Gianna, Brielle and Portia.
Bullet was a gorilla pimp who abducted all three girls and forced them into a life of prostitution utilizing pain and narcotics. The emotional hold he maintained over the girls was actually stronger than the physical hold especially on his first victim Gianna. Gianna suffered so much at the hands of Bullet that at some points she became his enforcer against the other two girls, in an effort to earn Bullet's love and perhaps lessen the abuse he doled out freely. Gianna's character was so well developed that I went from sympathizing with her on one page to detesting her just a couple of pages later. The Stockholm Syndrome is clearly evidenced in Gianna's behavior.
With Stealing Candy Ms. Hobbs delivers a disturbing read about the ease of exploiting impressionable young girls. The events that she's writing about are taking place all over the country as proven by all the young girls reported missing each year. Kudos to Ms. Hobbs for not only exposing a dark truth but for also stepping outside of the box and penning a novel that showcases that her writing skills aren't just limited to one genre.
Final Rating 4.5 Stars
Stealing Candy By Allison Hobbs was definitely not what I've come to expect from Ms. Hobbs. Thoroughly pleased with the previous books I read by her such as Insatiable, Dangerously In Love, A Bona Fide Gold Digger, The Climax (v. 2) I knew that when cracking open one of her novels I'd find a story filled with erotica, kinkiness and every once in a while a slightly disturbed female character. Stealing Candy provided none of the aforementioned instead Ms. Hobbs weaved a tale about a pimp named Bullet and the three girls he victimized Gianna, Brielle and Portia.
Bullet was a gorilla pimp who abducted all three girls and forced them into a life of prostitution utilizing pain and narcotics. The emotional hold he maintained over the girls was actually stronger than the physical hold especially on his first victim Gianna. Gianna suffered so much at the hands of Bullet that at some points she became his enforcer against the other two girls, in an effort to earn Bullet's love and perhaps lessen the abuse he doled out freely. Gianna's character was so well developed that I went from sympathizing with her on one page to detesting her just a couple of pages later. The Stockholm Syndrome is clearly evidenced in Gianna's behavior.
With Stealing Candy Ms. Hobbs delivers a disturbing read about the ease of exploiting impressionable young girls. The events that she's writing about are taking place all over the country as proven by all the young girls reported missing each year. Kudos to Ms. Hobbs for not only exposing a dark truth but for also stepping outside of the box and penning a novel that showcases that her writing skills aren't just limited to one genre.
Final Rating 4.5 Stars
June 6, 2011
Saleema known how it is to be living out on the streets trying to leave day by day. She decided to give back after getting on her own two feet. Giving up meant to help girls like her. She starts a program from bad teen girls "Head Up" gave these girls a place to come that was their own as Saleema schooled them on about the hardknot life.
But while a bad girl Portia is out in the arms of only god knows. Salmeema is out braking her back to find her while the rest of the world don't care.
Gianna finds herself being taken by a so call pimp name Bullet using her as his first girl to train to do what he want giving her the name Lollipop she is off doing things she never would have dreamt of. While at the same time she gaining his trust after awhile and helping him to control his newcomers. Portia and Brielle.
Gianna, Portia and Brielle go through hell while in the arms of Bullet.
Overall great book. It was sad at times right along with disgust all at once, but it takes you in the life of transporting teen girls into doing only god knows what for some sick men.
But while a bad girl Portia is out in the arms of only god knows. Salmeema is out braking her back to find her while the rest of the world don't care.
Gianna finds herself being taken by a so call pimp name Bullet using her as his first girl to train to do what he want giving her the name Lollipop she is off doing things she never would have dreamt of. While at the same time she gaining his trust after awhile and helping him to control his newcomers. Portia and Brielle.
Gianna, Portia and Brielle go through hell while in the arms of Bullet.
Overall great book. It was sad at times right along with disgust all at once, but it takes you in the life of transporting teen girls into doing only god knows what for some sick men.
March 4, 2012
Author Allison Hobbs brought to light so much in this story. This story is about three teenagers being Kidnapped by a "wanna be" pimp. Each of the girls go through so much. One of the biggest things that shows up in the story is Stockholm Syndrome. The author delved into a serious topic and was able to pull this reader in to the point where I had to see what would happen next to the characters.
I have read other novels by this author, but feel this book is one of her best. I recommend this novel to others and look forward to other books by her.
I have read other novels by this author, but feel this book is one of her best. I recommend this novel to others and look forward to other books by her.
April 9, 2016
Another book from BWBCiS. I don't know what to tell you. My coworker Tamiko warned me but did I listen? No. The book hits you like a ton of bricks. Underneath the shocking, seedy, pulp story of a homicidal pimp and his kidnapping and abuse of three young girls is a disturbing and troubling look at forced prostitution and modern sex slavery. It's a dark wild ride with plenty of sensational language and imagery so be prepared. I told Tamiko I need a more calm book next time. Can't handle any more of this Zane and Zane-esque literature this spring.
November 10, 2011
This book made me feel dirty to read. A bunch of depraved smut disguised as a tale to bring awareness to the teen sex trade. Reading the review from Zane in the back made me giggle. This book is a life-changing experience? Felt more like torture porn. I enjoyed it but only because I enjoy dark and depraved tales.
August 16, 2014
I don't think this is a true story, but this is a story of truth for a lot of our unloved and forgotten youth. I hope this book will heighten awareness and a stop to the human trafficking of our young people.
July 13, 2016
Great read and disturbing!!! This book was a page turner! I finished it in two days! It really helped shed some light on sex Trafficking. This book is graphic....very graphic yet well written.I will be keeping this booking my collection.
July 12, 2011
I'm just starting and,as always, I'm am engulfed.
August 19, 2012
I couldn't put it down. Warning, very graphic!
September 2, 2012
This book was a bit disturbing to me.
May 10, 2013
loved it
June 2, 2014
very good book
I loved this book it was very inspiring and I would recommend it to all. very passionate and insightful. opened my eyes about abuse.
I loved this book it was very inspiring and I would recommend it to all. very passionate and insightful. opened my eyes about abuse.
Read
June 5, 2019This was most definitely a thought provoking read. Human trafficking is a serious topic. And Ms. Hobbs hit the nail on the head with this one. In this book, several lessons were taught. First, be careful who you get in a car with. You never know the person's intent or what they may have in their car. Secondly, all that glitters is not gold. The main characters were sold a false dream and they all fell for it. These young ladies were very naïve and oblivious. So vulnerable and gullible. Thirdly, know your worth as a woman and as a human being. These young ladies were treated less than human, stripped of their innocence and womanhood. They allowed themselves to be treated harshly and accepted any and everything from their pimp. Ladies and gentlemen, don't be naïve, know your worth, and never let anyone sell you a false dream.
August 10, 2018
I went back and forth between 3 and 4 stars for this title. The subject matter was heavy, but I could felt like it was well-researched and the author was knowledgeable. I struggled with the ending - it just seemed packaged a little too neatly and I felt a little like I was left hanging as to what happened with the families afterward. Saleema was the protagonist of the story (along with Khalil, who I loved!), but she wrecked my nerves for various reasons, but since I hate spoilers, I'll leave it at that.
July 20, 2017
This is a powerful book about forced teen prostitution and sex slavery. This is an issue all over the world. It was hard to read.
January 26, 2022
FAVORITE BOOK !!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews