Guilt

In Guilt, the first book of the Nancy Flanagan Chronicles by Maisie Moon, we are introduced to Nancy Flanagan, a young Irish Catholic woman who migrates from post-war Ireland to England to train as a nurse. The narrative chronicles her inner turmoil as she struggles with the guilt surrounding her decision to leave her illegitimate child, Maeve, in Ireland. The story unfolds as Nancy navigates life in a new country post-World War II, encountering haunting memories, building friendships, and witnessing tragic moments as she diligently pursues her nursing career. The plot thickens when she becomes deeply involved with a mysterious patient, John, who bears physical and emotional scars from his past, which links him to the horrors of war and a demonic presence that threatens to tear Nancy's life apart. She must fight what pursues her, and traveling to Argentina with a ragtag team, she is unsure what awaits her.  

The story features paranormal events, and Nancy and John are linked to mythical beings and evil that threaten to destroy them. In the decision to right the wrongs of her past, Nancy unravels mysteries and discovers her latent gifts. The characters in Guilt are vividly drawn and emotionally compelling. Nancy is a relatable heroine wrestling with her past decisions, channeling her guilt into her work and the care of others. John, the enigmatic patient, evokes both sympathy and suspicion as his traumatic stories reveal a multifaceted individual shaped by the tumult of history. Supporting characters like the spirited colleague Stella and the methodical Matron are equally well-sculpted. Flanagan skillfully crafts suspense throughout the narrative, especially by introducing the supernatural elements represented by the demonic creature Azazel. This presence augments the tension within the plot and symbolizes Nancy's internal struggles and the burden of her guilt.  

The stylistic elements are aplenty in this engaging tale, and the lyrical writing transforms the story into a uniquely delightful one. From the dirty, chaotic backdrop of post-war England to the intimate, often suffocating confines of the hospital, the setting is enriched with the lingering effects of history. The author uses streams of consciousness to explore the guilt in her characters, allowing readers vivid images of their psyches. The intense conflict moves the plot steadily forward as Nancy battles external events, her inner demons, and the ramifications of her past. This noirish, quickly-paced, and emotionally charged thriller features an intriguing character development that blends effortlessly with a deeply disturbing plotline.