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by Karen Teasdale (Author)
'Poison Kisses' by Karen Teasdale has been nominated for the White Rose International Film festival 2026. It is a harrowing true story of survival, betrayal, and the unthinkable cruelty hidden behind closed doors.
From the outside, she was a doting mother. Behind the scenes, she was a narcissistic psychopath with a terrifying obsession to cause pain. Professionals were baffled though later her daughter was informed her mother had many complex mental health problems including Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy but her manipulation went far beyond seeking attention-she thrived on control, humiliation, and abuse.
Her daughter was her primary target. Her son, also a victim, was manipulated into becoming a reflection of her-developing traits of a malignant narcissist. Their father, caught in the crossfire, became another casualty of her cruelty. The situation spiraled into chaos, with police attending the family home 237 times in just 18 months due to her son's escalating violence. Authorities couldn't understand why she refused to let him go-but their toxic bond, rooted in her narcissistic psychopathy, meant they depended on each other in a deeply disturbing and destructive way.
This is the raw, emotional account of a child made to believe she was sick, a family torn apart by psychological torment, and a woman who fought to uncover the truth after decades of abuse. From childhood confusion to adult revelations, this memoir sheds light on the dark reality of living with a parent whose love was a lie-and the strength it took to survive it.
On her father's deathbed, she made a promise to tell their story. This is it.
This book contains themes of child abuse, psychological manipulation, and family trauma, including strong language and emotionally distressing content. It is intended for mature readers aged 18 and over.
While based on true events, some names and identifying details may have been changed or anonymised to protect privacy. This story includes discussion of mental illness and disturbing behaviour that some readers may find triggering. Reader discretion is strongly advised.
