Daughter of the Lost by Kay Stephens is a raw, gripping tale of self-discovery and rebellion. Trinity Tachel, a young woman hardened by a traumatic past and a broken foster care system, fights for a place at Filton University while grappling with the unresolved murder of her mother. An unexpected summer spent with retired porn star Missy Mariola offers Trinity a temporary escape, but upon her return to New Orleans, she finds herself entangled in a new, oppressive life dictated by Missy’s control. Struggling between her painful past and the possibility of a new future, Trinity must decide if she can embrace love and stability—or if she’ll remain shackled to her own painful history. This bold, emotional coming-of-age story explores themes of survival, identity, and the search for belonging.

Daughter of the Lost

By: Kay Stephens-I read The Porn Star's Daughter and gave it 2⭐

E-book: 287 pgs.

Publication 7-16-24, Read 8-26-24

Thanks to NetGalley and Direction 71 Press for this ARC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Genre: New Adult, Women's Fic, Romance

Tropes: college life, family drama, friendship, found family

⚠️TW: sex workers, foster care, death of parent

📔Summary: Taglia "Talia" Hunter 18 and Trinity Tachel spent the summer with Missy Mariola-Talia ex-porn star alcoholic mother. Now back in school at Fulton University with James and Seth, Missy has made all the rules and taken over Trinity's life, but Trinity is still dealing with her mother's death.

🤔My Thoughts: I liked Trinity's character best in book one because she was the most actualized. She lived her life, knew what she wanted, and how to get it. Talia, James, and Seth had a lot of growing up to do, which they do-a little.

Rating; 3.5/5 ⭐

I wanted to express my gratitude to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions I share are entirely my own.

I felt that the first few chapters could have provided more clarity about the situation, which would have helped me connect with the characters.

Despite a rough start, the story and the characters gradually grew on me and managed to keep me interested.

It is a beautiful continuation from her prior two books. I love reading about their lives, the romance involved and all the snark inbetween.