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Twist

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Eighteen-year-old Twist doesn't have much. No money, no home and no family. All he has is his reputation as one of the most daring street artists in London. But when he finds himself on the run from the police, he knows that he could be about to lose the last thing he has left - his freedom. Until he is saved by the mysterious Dodge. When Dodge introduces him to con artist and art `collector` Cornelius Faginescu, Twist realises that he finally has the chance to be part of something. All he has to do is put aside his moral objections and learn to steal...

336 pages, Hardcover

First published September 25, 2014

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Tom Grass

3 books

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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Sam.
Author 20 books29 followers
September 25, 2014
Twist by Tom Grass
Orion Books October 2014
ISBN: 978-1-4091-5090-9


They did it with Jane Austen and called it Mean Girls and it’s still an iconic movie.
It was only going to be a matter of time before they snatched Charles Dickens from the dead and applied the jump leads. It you are at all wary that Oliver Twist can’t be touched like some holy relic, too precious to update – I have news for you Twist is terrific stuff.
Fast and gritty from the get go we first meet Harry – a fast moving thief who is betrayed by Fagin’s gang. If you don’t have trust of your fellow thief you have nothing. Harry is going to meet his end and now the gang is without an ‘artist’.
Enter Red, the beautiful foster girl who ditched her ‘family’ for the security of Fagin (FBoss) and Bill Sikes, who keep her sweet with cash when she needs it. She’s the lynchpin in the operation, the key to every hustle or steal.
FBoss and his cohorts live in a listed warehouse that can’t be demolished – secure they will never be found by the police or any other criminals who might want a share of their spoils. Their specialism is stealing artworks and they are audacious and daring in their heists. It’s Dodge who discovers Twist, the graffiti artist extraordinaire, who recreates master works on city walls. Agile, brilliant and self taught; he’s a loner – hiding away in a desolate empty tower block where he is recreating The Matador from memory. Everyone knows about his ‘work’ on the walls of the Tate Britain.
FBoss wants him. Needs him. Dodge sets it up and Red is there to reel him in when he’s ready. It’s cold and calculating. All the boys fall for Red and vulnerable loners are putty in her hands. But Red is in deep debt to Bill Sikes. A matter of natural curiosity getting her into major trouble with Russian gangsters. She owes Bill big and Twist is going to end up with a broken heart for sure. Bill is very possessive over ‘his’ girl.
Red’s job is to train up Twist to be her new running partner. She’s tough and Twist finds her training hard. ‘No, you’ve got it wrong again, but I do really like retarded mute guys who can’t backflip.’
The story moves like the most exciting teen movie ever and you can’t read it fast enough to catch up with all the events, the schemes plays and counter plays. Twist is caught in the trap and has to fall in with them. Even grow to admire their skills and the strong bonds between each other. But all he wants is a big score so he can go study art somewhere. He discovers that Red is secretly the same – dreaming a career in dance that probably will never happen. Escaping Fagin’s clutches would be hard.
Each character comes alive in this vivid reinvention and it never slows for a second. You will be rooting for Red and Twist as they make things happen and prepare the ground for the most amazing art theft ever. London comes alive and it’s crawling with opportunists and very skilful thieves. Tom Grass constantly raises the stakes for Twist and the gang who discover that they are not just playing for the money – but their very lives. The hustle can be lethal.
Twist is exciting, thrilling action that will keep you on your toes from the very first page.
© Sam Hawksmoor
author of The Heaviness
Profile Image for Martin.
42 reviews20 followers
February 18, 2015
A modern retelling of the original Dickens classic, Twist is a compelling and action packed story plunging readers into the imagined criminal underworld created by Tom Grass. Gripping from the start, the opening scene sees Harry, a thief, betrayed by the gang he runs with, leaving a hole in the organisation.

Red is a beautiful, intelligent and athletic member of the group, yet when curiosity gets the better of her and she accidentally stumbles into the world of prostitution and sex trafficking, she is at the mercy of the Russian mafia. Fortunately, Bill Sykes is able to strike a deal with the Russians where the gang must steal rare art works. Fagan, the leader and father figure of this gang of thieves, requires an extra thief and it is here where Twist, a young orphan, on the run from the police is coerced into their plan. From here it’s a fast paced, intelligent read with edge of your seat car chases and parkour across the vivid London landscape. Tom Grass paints a dark and gritty picture of London and its underground crime organisations and this, along with his cinematic style of writing, makes for a realistic and easily imagined, thrilling read.

Twist boasts a list of memorable characters such as the Fagin, Dodger, Red and the menacing Bill Sykes, all of which were compelling. I was a little disappointed not to find out more about each of their back stories especially Fagin’s which seemed promising but was only touched upon when mentioning his background, probably to keep in line with enigmatic original character. Twist on the other hand was a well-developed and defined character with a troubled past and Grass was able to make me care about his success, both in terms of his infatuation for Red and in achieving his dream of going to art school. An individual with great artistic talent and also physical prowess, all of which will be needed and tested in order to succeed.

The story itself was interesting and in most places was fast paced and action packed. Grass was able to paint a believable image of both the art world and criminal underworld and this added to the realism of the planning and actual heists execution. Throughout specifics of the way in which Fagin’s group operated were described in detail, using a mix of technology, sleight of hand and deception, all of which was enthralling.

I liked this book, it was a fun and exciting story plus a great ending. If you like fast paced reads, reimagined classics or stories involving crafty plans and heist then you will definitely enjoy this book.
Profile Image for Marochka.
846 reviews
February 17, 2020
Мне сложно представить, что это вообще может кому-то понравиться. Но теоретически книга подойдет мужчинам и женщинам постарше, которые при этом знать не знают, кто такой Ч. Диккенс, и никогда не читали «Оливера Твиста».
Я всегда восхищаюсь самоуверенностью авторов, которые рискуют своей посредственной и скучной писанинкой замахнуться на классику. Одновременно понимаю, насколько они глупы, и все же восхищаюсь: мне бы такую уверенность в себе!
В девяносто девяти процентах из ста подобные переосмысления, в итоге, оказываются полнейшей чушью, которую не принимают читатели. Эта книга тоже не стала счастливым одним процентом. По ней даже, наоборот, «проехались» больше, чем по всем другим переосмыслениям, попадавшим мне в руки.
За 6 лет книга с трудом наскребла 42 читателя, которые были от нее в таком ужасе, что рейтинг книги оказался меньше тройки!
И, на мой взгляд, проблема тут даже не в смелости автора, который посягнул на классику, а в том, что это просто бред: скучно, примитивно и, мягко говоря, сложно для восприятия (пишет автор из рук вон плохо: «она то», «она сё»).
Я читала Оливера Твиста еще в школе, поэтому плохо помню и сюжет (ну, только основной), и стиль книги. Но могу с уверенностью сказать, что как-то, гм, скажем так, не особо похоже Том Грасс пишет на Диккенса.
В любом случае, рейтинг книги вполне оправдан: совершенно «никакие» персонажи, вся книга посвящена всякой «грязи» (вместо нормального сюжета и отношений), а также глупые перестрелки и многозначительные и метафоричные описания картин с проститутками с сифилисом на двадцать страниц. Не говоря уже об упоминании некрофилии и прочей гадости.
А русские бандиты в спортивных костюмах и с водкой в каждой руке, которых так классно облапошили главные герои (плохие, плохие русские!), – это вообще «огонь».
С одной стороны, мне вообще не ясно, зачем кто-то купил права на экранизацию этого бреда. С другой, я понимаю, что от книги там все равно, кроме имен ничего не останется (хотя бы потому, что Билла Сайкса там играет Лина Хиди, которая, на минуточку, точно не тридцатилетний мужик), да и создателям просто понравилась идея современного «Оливера Твиста». А показать перестрелки и погони в фильме гораздо проще, чем в книге. Но я в любом случае не стану это смотреть после прочтения книги. И никому не советую.

Итоговая оценка: 3/10
Profile Image for Malvina.
1,942 reviews9 followers
January 2, 2015
This is Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist reimagined, 176 years after the original was published. It is gritty and urban, dark and (forgive me) twisted. When you consider the themes and storyline of the original Dickens novel, that was also very much the same for its time. But I suggest you don't compare the two books, that you come fresh to Twist, with no expectations (as opposed to 'great expectations'). Because really, it deserves to stand on its own.

We meet Oliver Twist as an 18-year old orphan with a rap sheet, eluding police. He's an incredible graffiti artist who may be as good as, maybe better than, Banksy; able to memorize and reproduce the great masters with an incredible eye and meticulous detail. He comes to the attention of FBoss (Fagin), when it appears the thuggish Sikes and Red (Nancy) have gotten into deadly trouble with the Russian mafia about - what else - some paintings. They need Twist, but he doesn't need them. Not until he starts to fall for Red...

This is an unsettling walk through London's underbelly, exposing a seam of crime most people never dream about. It's very visual, so I imagine the film - the screenplay appears to have been written(?) - will be terrific to watch. Especially the chase scenes where Twist and Red do an urban ninja thing, running and jumping on, off and around buildings to elude pursuers: police, villains or both. These scenes are a little harder to read, but you get the gist. A lot of London is used as the backdrop, including inside The Shard; that's going to look fabulous.

So sit back and enjoy the fairly wild ride. There are lots of plot twists and turns, and the art side of things is fascinating. As is the ending. Not what you expect.
Profile Image for Bethan.
Author 3 books9 followers
February 2, 2024
:: "You want my business?"" Fagin asked bluntly, watching as Spender finally got the message and offered up a little bow - whatever-sir-wants before slipping into the next room with the flats of his hands pressed tightly against his ears. The moment he was gone Fagin stood up and scuttled to the door, getting firm purchase on the handle with both hands as Dodge stepped up onto the glass table, pulling out a high definition pocket camera, the flash illuminating the room and startling the humming bird which Fagin watched climb steeply and hit the glass ceiling with an almost inaudible bump. ::

The modern day look at the fable Oliver Twist, Tom Grass has offered up just that, twist after twist and although I honestly was looking for the famous words. "Please sir, can I have more?" Even if it had been stuck in as a gest some how but it wasn't to be. What you do get however is a high flying, past racing, action filled story as page after page, is filled with clever thinking and intricate bonds that was so enjoyable to read.

This new Oliver Twist is bound to appeal to the new generations of youth today and it really struck home on certain topics and fears that are relevant in today's time and age.

I'm not going to lie at first I found it hard to get into. It kept jumping and I just couldn't get into it, it wasn't until three or four chapters in that I found that urge to keep reading for one more hour, to just do one more chapter, or just to the end of the line - the familiar signs of becoming obsessed with a story, living and breathing it, wanting to get to the end but dreading when you do! I loved it.
330 reviews
January 22, 2020
Modern day Fagin with all the characters, Bill, Nancy etc. Have to steel some art for the Russians. Lots of climbing and running on impossible buildings Enjoyed
189 reviews1 follower
September 5, 2021
Disappointing read. Great idea and good plot but it felt like i was reading somebody's view of the film.
Profile Image for Mackay.
Author 3 books31 followers
February 24, 2021
A cracking story, but some of the stylistic choices didn't work for me. The biggest issue for me was the overall thin characterizations. One or two came alive, but... Still, a fun take on "Oliver Twist."
Profile Image for Rokkan.
216 reviews9 followers
July 31, 2025
An interesting take on Dickens' Oliver Twist. There were one or two phrases that seemed to refer to the musical as well as the original book, which I quite liked, and the modernisation of the story suited me better than the original. At least the Twist in this version could catch a break every now and then!
Profile Image for Tim.
192 reviews
June 7, 2022
I liked this book but think it could have used some better editing. It was uneven and could have used expanded explanations in places. I expect it will make a good action movie though.
Profile Image for Bryan.
8 reviews
Read
October 23, 2014
Before I start I must state that I was given this book as part of a Goodreads Giveaway and I believe that even if the book was free myself I must give an honest opinion whether good bad or indifferent

I was looking forward to this modern interpretation of a Dickens classic and I must admit after reading it I felt a little disappointed .

The idea that a young guy down on his luck on the run from the police and a great graffiti artist to boot was very promising. However I felt that I could not quite believe in his character .That goes for the other main characters in the book also, apart from Red who seemed the most ‘ real ‘ amongst the other characters.

The novel itself tended for me to have too many and too lengthy description of freerunning , leaping from roof top to roof top via pieces of whatever drainpipe or discarded girder was at hand for my liking. I know that was integral to the characters , maybe its my age and how I relate to it, or maybe not.

Once the plot moved on to the actual planning and execution of the crime , I must admit it improved .

Twists and turns appeared, and nearly edge of the seat moments . It was quite enjoyable from then on , but half of the book had already been read before I got there.

That said , It was an ok read, nothing to write home about from for me I am afraid, But this is my opinion only and other people might think differently
Profile Image for Pamela.
1,698 reviews
October 27, 2014
This was a Goodreads First Reads giveaway so thanks to Orion and Goodreads for the book.

A modern retelling of the story of Oliver Twist. This Twist is a graffiti artist who finds himself involved with a criminal gang, living in a derelict hotel in London, and planning an audacious art theft. Twist must use all his physical strength, courage and wits to survive threats from the police and a gang of Russian mobsters.

This story begins quite slowly, but gathers pace as it goes along. The youth of the protagonists, their speech and activities, give a definite YA feel to the narrative. The action scenes have a cinematic feel, they would work well visually, but occasionally feel repetitive on the page, and the action-packed narrative is sometimes incoherent. That said, there is a lot to appeal to readers of all ages. The planning and execution of the crime are engrossing, and the characters translate well from Dickens' classic to the modern day, with an enigmatic Fagin and a suitably brutal Bill Sikes.

In summary, an enjoyable and pacy read, lots of energy, and some fascinating detail about art works and the art world.
Profile Image for Sarah.
3,362 reviews1,238 followers
September 23, 2014
Thoughts before reading:
Modern retelling of Oliver Twist where Twist is a street artist and a freerunner? Hell yes, sign me up!

Thoughts after reading:
I was really excited to start this modern retelling of Oliver Twist but unfortunately it just isn't working for me. I honestly think it's a case of me and the writing style not gelling rather than it being a badly written book though. There isn't anything in particular I can point to and say this is why I don't like it so I would hate to put anyone off giving it a go.

In fact I may even give it another try at some point just to see if I can connect with it better the second time around.
172 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2015
Not really for me this one, it was a win from good reads giveaways. I'm not sure what I was expecting but it took over half the book to get into it and even when I did I still wasn't keen. In its favour it was well written but the story just not my thing
Profile Image for zespri.
604 reviews12 followers
March 30, 2016
A modern retelling of the timeless Oliver Twist. Fagin collects a group of homeless kids to train and then execute his plans, I thought the idea interesting, but the book did not grab me as i thought it would.

Profile Image for Michelle.
1,254 reviews186 followers
dnf
September 28, 2014
I'm only a few chapters in I really can't get into this book at all. It had so much potential that just didn't meet my standards.
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