Obsession: a journalist and victim-survivor’s investigation into stalking, Pantera Press

A gripping blend of memoir, investigation and expert analysis, Obsession takes a deep dive into the disturbing phenomenon of stalking.

Journalist Nicole Madigan was stalked for over three years. The relentless and debilitating experience wreaked havoc in her personal and professional life, leaving her trapped in a constant state of fear and anxiety.

Nicole uses her own story as an entry point to examine the psychology behind stalking behaviours and their impact on victim-survivors. Whether by a stranger, acquaintance or former partner, stalking can have a devastating effect on a victim-survivor’s mental, social and financial wellbeing. At its worst, it can lead to physical violence, even death.

In this timely and compelling enquiry, Madigan explores the blurred lines between romantic interest and obsession, admiration and fixation. Through expert consultation and the personal stories of other victim-survivors, she analyses society’s attitude towards stalking and its role in popular culture, while highlighting the failings of the legal system in protecting victims.

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Reviews

‘This book is a forensic analysis of stalking and how it can completely dominate and derail an otherwise contented existence. But it is more than that. It is as chilling and gripping to read as the best thriller, made even more disturbing because every word of it is true.’
Jane Caro, author, writer, and public commentator

‘Extraordinarily powerful and terrifyingly necessary, this book is a compelling investigation into an issue that has consequences for the whole community. Nicole’s generosity in pouring her heart out onto the page is matched in brilliance by her forensic exploration of stalking. Every Australian should read this book.’
Shannon Molloy, author and journalist

‘The harrowing experiences of Nicole Madigan and other victim-survivors will make you rage — towards the predators that get away with their behaviours, as well as the systems that let victims down. Obsession balances the power of lived experience with extensive research into societal and misogynistic attitudes towards stalking, and the urgent need for law reform. With stalking disproportionately affecting women, and being closely related to coercive control and intimate partner violence, this book adds important weight to the broader discourse on violence against women.’
Dr Yumiko Kadota, author

‘This is a remarkably compelling book that shines a light on the experience of victim/survivors of stalking and the distressing lack of protections they’re afforded by both the justice system and society at large. Madigan writes with an immense amount of courage, skill, and empathy about a dark experience that is too often diminished and overlooked.‘
Elfy Scott, author and journalist

FULL REVIEWS

Obsession (Nicole Madigan, Pantera) | Books+Publishing (booksandpublishing.com.au)

Obsession – Nicole Madigan | Cass Moriarty Author