Toxic People
The havoc wrought by a narcissistic mother can span oceans and decades…
Jenny, a member of the rich and influential Donaldson family, is used to the finest of all things. So, when her exclusive Dublin home comes under threat, she will do almost anything to save it.
First, her husband Shane is almost murdered during a robbery that does take the life of a burglar. Then, a threatening stranger warns of doom before nightfall. But for which of them, and how, and why?
As the hours rush by, Jenny and Shane find their pasts, their presents and their ideal futures colliding in a tornado of hate and love, jealousies and frustration, rage and regret. Meanwhile, one woman – Jenny’s mother, Vera – wrests centre stage, as she always has.
But however self-absorbed Vera may be, what mother could destroy everything her child holds precious, simply to further her own caustic interests? As the hour of reckoning approaches, and the hunt for the persecutor continues, Jenny is about to discover that vengeance can visit from the most unexpected quarters…
Compelling, fast-paced and tautly written, Toxic People is a superbly modern psychological thriller and a classic page-turner. Readers who appreciate the work of Patricia Highsmith and Gillian Flynn will no doubt thoroughly enjoy this, as will anyone with an interest in the psychology of crime and of family relationships.
- "Beautifully written, the story reveals itself at breathtaking pace. The plot is taut and clever and the characters entirely credible." – Liz Nugent, author of Our Little Cruelties
- "I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough to find out what would happen next...The plot and pacing ticks all the boxes for me." – Patricia Gibney, bestselling author of DI Lottie Parker series
- "A wild ride! I really enjoyed all of the twists and turns in this book. I will definitely recommend!" - Netgalley Review
- "It was a very well done domestic thriller, and I found myself glued to my seat." - Netgalley Review
- "Characters were very interesting and engaging. Definitely recommend to readers." - Netgalley Review
S. D. Monaghan grew up in Dublin, before travelling extensively in Asia, Europe and America. After teaching English in Thailand for two years, he moved back to Ireland and gained an honours degree in psychology. While living in Canada for four years, he studied screenwriting in Toronto. S. D. Monaghan completed the Masters in Creative Writing at Trinity College, Dublin.
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