Carol McClain

Yesterday's Poison Carol McClain

After her boyfriend betrays her, Torie Sullivan careens her car into a ditch in a drunken fury. Paramedic Adam Benedict rescues the unconscious woman, then realizes she's one of the middle school bullies who tormented him twelve years ago. The encounter rips open scars he thought had healed.

While kayaking one morning, Adam discovers Torie bathing in the frigid waters of Hookskill Preserve. He then learns she's living in a lean-to in the wilderness. Despite his hatred for her, Adam's innate compassion won't allow him to leave Torie in the wilds of Albany County. He offers her a secure, private room in his minuscule cabin.

When tragedy strikes Adam's family, his girlfriend Maya Vitale gives Torie a room in her apartment. Torie envies Maya's idyllic life, unaware she, too, hides a dark and shameful past.

Each character drinks yesterday's poison. Their friendships intertwine their lives and expose their toxic pasts. They must learn to forgive the unpardonable.