Book Launch and Panel Discussion: "Lahkojohtajan morsian"

"Lahkojohtajan morsian" is a work based on true events about spiritual and sexual violence, manipulation, and human trafficking. The book is written by Venla Pystynen and Noora Sofia (WSOY 2026, 336 pages).

The launch event will feature a panel discussion with author Venla Pystynen, Pia Marttila - a specialist in supporting human trafficking victims at the Crime Victim Support Service, and Pia Puolakka, a forensic psychologist, psychotherapist, and former chair of Support for Victims of Religions (UUT rf). Noora Sofia, the book's co-author and main subject, participates via chat.

The book tells the story of 15-year-old Noora, who encountered a Finnish Christian religious community and fell under the control of a charismatic leader over 40 years her senior. The man flatters, lies, and threatens - isolating Noora from her loved ones and wielding spiritual power as a weapon. Degradation and abuse continue for over a decade in a community deep in the forest.

The work describes how difficult it is to escape an abuser and how long the path to healing is - but also the importance of friendship and love along that journey.