Sydney author Tori Woods charged over erotic novel accused of containing child abuse content
Lauren Tesolin-Mastrosa, known by the pen name 'Tori Woods,' was arrested at her home in Quakers Hill, western Sydney, on Friday. New South Wales police began investigating the book earlier this month following reports it contained material referencing child sexual abuse.
The novel is described as focusing on a 'barely legal' 18-year-old woman and her father's friend. However, readers flagged disturbing references in which the older character is said to have desired the teen since she was three years old. The book's cover, which spells out the title in children's toy blocks, also attracted criticism for its suggestive imagery.
Tesolin-Mastrosa, 33, was charged with possessing, disseminating, and producing child abuse material. Police said several hard copies of the book were seized for forensic examination. She was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Blacktown Local Court on 31 March.
In a now-deleted social media post, Tesolin-Mastrosa called the situation a 'big misunderstanding,' stating the book was fictional and not intended to promote or glorify child abuse. She acknowledged that some content may have been seen as inappropriate and expressed regret over the fallout.
She also defended collaborators such as her editor and designers, saying they were unaware of the book's full context. Georgia Stove, who designed the cover, has since cut ties with the author, stating she had only read the blurb and is now facing harassment over her involvement.
Tesolin-Mastrosa was also suspended from her role as a marketing executive at the Christian organisation BaptistCare. A spokesperson confirmed to The Independent that the suspension and said the organisation is conducting an internal investigation, adding that it takes ethical concerns seriously.
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