Strange Sally Diamond

Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent is a riveting psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of human behaviour and the dark shadows of a troubled past. The story follows Sally Diamond, an enigmatic and reclusive woman who suddenly becomes the focus of media and police scrutiny after her father's death.

Sally's peculiar actions, which she believes to be simple obedience to her late father’s wishes, spark national intrigue. Her father's unusual directive to "put him out with the rubbish" after his demise sets off a chain of events that unravels Sally's isolated existence. As a result, she is thrust into a world she barely comprehends, one filled with invasive journalists, concerned law enforcement, and a haunting voice from a history she has no recollection of.

As Sally navigates this unfamiliar territory, she begins to uncover the grim details of her childhood. Struggling to piece together her fragmented past, she takes hesitant steps towards social engagement, forging unexpected friendships and discovering a newfound sense of independence. However, Sally soon realises that interpreting the intentions of those around her is a complex task, fraught with misunderstanding and potential danger.

Just as she starts to find her footing, Sally’s fragile stability is shattered by the arrival of mysterious messages from a stranger possessing intimate knowledge of her past. These unsettling communications threaten to plunge her back into turmoil, as past traumas resurface with renewed intensity.

In this masterful narrative, Liz Nugent skillfully blends suspense, emotion, and profound character study. Strange Sally Diamond challenges readers to explore themes of memory, identity, and the often blurred line between right and wrong. With its gripping plot and richly developed characters, this novel captivates from the first page to the last, offering a poignant and haunting reading experience.

Praise for the book includes a commendation from Marian Keyes, who remarked, "I'm lost in admiration. Strange Sally Diamond is vivid, pacy, taut but so very moving . . . defies categorisation."

For those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged thriller, Strange Sally Diamond is an essential addition to your reading list.