What do you think?
Rate this book
A Mind Polluted
His world falls apart…
Triggered by overhearing a confession from his mother's lips when he was a young boy, Connor Boyd carries the burden of the secret through his life.
Is falling in love his saviour? Or will he embark on a journey down a self-destructive path which ultimately leads to his version of justice?
Will he concentrate on his future, or be consumed by his past?
Triggered by overhearing a confession from his mother's lips when he was a young boy, Connor Boyd carries the burden of the secret through his life.
Is falling in love his saviour? Or will he embark on a journey down a self-destructive path which ultimately leads to his version of justice?
Will he concentrate on his future, or be consumed by his past?
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2018
1 person is currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Martin Geraghty
1 book13 followersMartin Geraghty is a forty-five-year-old from Glasgow. He is a self-employed Private Investigator who claims his profession is not remotely as interesting as it may seem. Human beings and how they react to the various curveballs that life throws at them is generally what inspires him to write. He has had work published in various lit-zines including Razur Cuts and Glove. When not writing or playing amateur detective, he can be found on a golf course or indulging in his chief passions, food, wine and music. A Mind Polluted is his debut novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 10, 2018
Connor Boyd arrived home early from school to hear his parents arguing. He was thirteen years old and what he heard changed his life forever. From that day on Connor went into self destruct mode.
Once keen to learn he became the class clown, he was disruptive got expelled then he got in with the wrong crowd some members were a bit older but he wanted to be someone. The boys were getting into trouble and were becoming a problem. Is it too late for Connor to be saved and get his life back on track or will he haunted by that fateful day forever?
I really enjoyed this book it’s told from the first person so you are with Connor all the way you know how and what he is feeling because you also feel it. Brilliant read from a new author will definitely be following Martins journey.
Once keen to learn he became the class clown, he was disruptive got expelled then he got in with the wrong crowd some members were a bit older but he wanted to be someone. The boys were getting into trouble and were becoming a problem. Is it too late for Connor to be saved and get his life back on track or will he haunted by that fateful day forever?
I really enjoyed this book it’s told from the first person so you are with Connor all the way you know how and what he is feeling because you also feel it. Brilliant read from a new author will definitely be following Martins journey.
May 8, 2018
"A Mind Polluted" is the story of Connor Boyd, a teenager growing up in the Glasgow schemes. I had a lump the size of a golf ball in my throat when young Connor Boyd overhears his parents arguing; he hears something that no young child should ever hear and it sets in motion a trail of destruction that follows him through his life.
I'm not sure what genre I would place it in but sometimes some reads are not always meant to fit into a particular mould and I think that "A Mind Polluted" is one of these novels. What it was, to me, was an engaging and compelling character driven read that explored the impact of childhood events, family dynamics, the bonds we build and the bonds we break. It examines guilt, remorse and responsibility for your own actions and in Connor Boyd, the author has created a truly authentic and captivating character. I found myself swaying from wanting to give him a kick up the backside to taking him and giving him a great big cuddle. He haunted me. His spiral into self-destruction in part one of the novel was both realistic and heartbreaking to his redemption in the second part as friendships and love blossomed along with his confidence to the niggling sense that everything was about to go wrong again. It was difficult to watch Connor self destruct in an alcoholic fuelled meltdown, it was almost like observing a wounded animal and it was almost inevitable from the start that things were not going to turn out well for Connor Boyd. I think we all know a Connor Boyd in our lives.
A strong Glaswegian dialogue provides an authenticity to the turmoil that Connor experiences and it adds a certain realism and humour to what is a dark social commentary on scheme life, relationships and consequences. Littered with the dark gallows humour that is a part of Glasgow life, this was never an easy read but there was something intrinsically warming about it. There is something about being a reader and observing an ordinary life played out so dramatically across the pages especially when the pages draw you right into the life and the mind of the main character. This is exactly what happened to me, I heard the constant noise that occupied Connor's mind; I experienced his turmoil, his joy and his downfall and I found myself completely captivated by his life.
"A Mind Polluted" is a strong debut novel from Martin Geraghty, it is a challenging exploration of human behaviour and ordinary lives and I look forward to seeing where he takes us next.
I'm not sure what genre I would place it in but sometimes some reads are not always meant to fit into a particular mould and I think that "A Mind Polluted" is one of these novels. What it was, to me, was an engaging and compelling character driven read that explored the impact of childhood events, family dynamics, the bonds we build and the bonds we break. It examines guilt, remorse and responsibility for your own actions and in Connor Boyd, the author has created a truly authentic and captivating character. I found myself swaying from wanting to give him a kick up the backside to taking him and giving him a great big cuddle. He haunted me. His spiral into self-destruction in part one of the novel was both realistic and heartbreaking to his redemption in the second part as friendships and love blossomed along with his confidence to the niggling sense that everything was about to go wrong again. It was difficult to watch Connor self destruct in an alcoholic fuelled meltdown, it was almost like observing a wounded animal and it was almost inevitable from the start that things were not going to turn out well for Connor Boyd. I think we all know a Connor Boyd in our lives.
A strong Glaswegian dialogue provides an authenticity to the turmoil that Connor experiences and it adds a certain realism and humour to what is a dark social commentary on scheme life, relationships and consequences. Littered with the dark gallows humour that is a part of Glasgow life, this was never an easy read but there was something intrinsically warming about it. There is something about being a reader and observing an ordinary life played out so dramatically across the pages especially when the pages draw you right into the life and the mind of the main character. This is exactly what happened to me, I heard the constant noise that occupied Connor's mind; I experienced his turmoil, his joy and his downfall and I found myself completely captivated by his life.
"A Mind Polluted" is a strong debut novel from Martin Geraghty, it is a challenging exploration of human behaviour and ordinary lives and I look forward to seeing where he takes us next.
November 9, 2018
I was hooked from the first page of Martin Geraghty’s awesome debut novel. I read it in two sittings and was up until after 2am unable to sleep until I reached the final page – and then for some time afterwards as Connor’s story swirled around inside my head.
I am still thinking of the emotional rollercoaster from this gritty and dark tale a few days after finishing. The story takes the reader on an experience unlike any other book I’ve ever read!
The secret overheard by the lead character is shocking and the author has, in my view, described the emotions and reactions from all concerned perfectly. It is a fast paced novel which is set in four parts and definitely a ‘one more page’ type of story.
I am finding it difficult to write the review in a way not to give anything away. I can’t wait to read more from this very talented author.
I am still thinking of the emotional rollercoaster from this gritty and dark tale a few days after finishing. The story takes the reader on an experience unlike any other book I’ve ever read!
The secret overheard by the lead character is shocking and the author has, in my view, described the emotions and reactions from all concerned perfectly. It is a fast paced novel which is set in four parts and definitely a ‘one more page’ type of story.
I am finding it difficult to write the review in a way not to give anything away. I can’t wait to read more from this very talented author.
Read
May 13, 2018When I went on holiday recently, I took a few books with me so that I could sit in the sun, relax and enjoy. One of the novels was A Mind Polluted by Martin Geraghty, a new author from Glasgow, Scotland. This is his debut novel published by Crooked Cat Books. It is based on the story of the man who murdered Jo Cox MP.
A Mind Polluted tells the story of Connor Boyd who lives with his mother, father and brother in a tenement flat in Glasgow. The story is told in three parts. In the early part of the story, Connor is an able well-adjusted school boy. However, when he overhears an argument between his parents, his attitude to life changes profoundly.
In the second part of A Mind Polluted, Connor leaves home and goes to college. During that time, he shares a flat with a group of other boys who are students with him. They get on well, each having their own role within the group. Connor sees very little of his family and his life seems to be back on track. Connor finds love with Laura. Their relationshi developes and Connor sees his future with her.
The last part of the book is very short, but sees Connor re-united with his family and he is able to explain his views to his mother.
The end of A Mind Polluted contains an emotional twist that shocks even Connor. The books is told throughout in a strong Scottish brogue in the author's truly original voice. A Mind Polluted is a fine novel.
Val Penny
A Mind Polluted tells the story of Connor Boyd who lives with his mother, father and brother in a tenement flat in Glasgow. The story is told in three parts. In the early part of the story, Connor is an able well-adjusted school boy. However, when he overhears an argument between his parents, his attitude to life changes profoundly.
In the second part of A Mind Polluted, Connor leaves home and goes to college. During that time, he shares a flat with a group of other boys who are students with him. They get on well, each having their own role within the group. Connor sees very little of his family and his life seems to be back on track. Connor finds love with Laura. Their relationshi developes and Connor sees his future with her.
The last part of the book is very short, but sees Connor re-united with his family and he is able to explain his views to his mother.
The end of A Mind Polluted contains an emotional twist that shocks even Connor. The books is told throughout in a strong Scottish brogue in the author's truly original voice. A Mind Polluted is a fine novel.
Val Penny
May 13, 2018
Loose lips sink ships. In A Mind Polluted it is loose lips which sink Connor Boyd. At age 13 he overhears his parents arguing. Not an uncommon incident, however, on this particular day he hears his mother voice a terrible truth which rocks Connor’s world and will change his destiny forever.
Shocked by what he has heard, Connor’s attitude and approach to life will radically change. He had previously been a promising student at school but he becomes troublesome and disruptive. He will sneak out at night and hang with the “bad crowd” who will lead Connor further down a dark path.
His relationship with his parents will deteriorate to the point they can hardly recognise their son. He will not explain why he is behaving the way he is, but he firmly holds his mother responsible.
A Mind Polluted is a Glasgow based novel and the dialect and language reflect the city exceedingly well. The loutish behaviour of the kids in the story is really well realized but most striking is the reader’s view of Connor. He is a conflicted and complex character and we see his confidence, anger, neurosis, anguish, hopes, worry and fears. The author will take readers on a harrowing journey and if you get caught up in the tale then Connor will make you angry, upset, elated and frustrated…it is a highly emotive tale to read.
If you are a fan of a strong character driven story then A Mind Polluted is one to seek out.
Shocked by what he has heard, Connor’s attitude and approach to life will radically change. He had previously been a promising student at school but he becomes troublesome and disruptive. He will sneak out at night and hang with the “bad crowd” who will lead Connor further down a dark path.
His relationship with his parents will deteriorate to the point they can hardly recognise their son. He will not explain why he is behaving the way he is, but he firmly holds his mother responsible.
A Mind Polluted is a Glasgow based novel and the dialect and language reflect the city exceedingly well. The loutish behaviour of the kids in the story is really well realized but most striking is the reader’s view of Connor. He is a conflicted and complex character and we see his confidence, anger, neurosis, anguish, hopes, worry and fears. The author will take readers on a harrowing journey and if you get caught up in the tale then Connor will make you angry, upset, elated and frustrated…it is a highly emotive tale to read.
If you are a fan of a strong character driven story then A Mind Polluted is one to seek out.
July 23, 2018
A Thrilling Read
A Mind Polluted is a gritty, uncensored look into the Scottish schemes, focused on protagonist Connor Boyd and the struggles he faces growing up. When Connor overhears his mother telling his father that she wished her son hadn't been born, anger and hate begin to lead the thirteen-year-old boy into crime and self-destruction. Once the seeds are planted, we get to see how this impacts Connor as he moves away from family, lives with mates and falls in love. This spirals towards a stunning conclusion that I did not see coming, and I believe this book will stay with me for a long time.
This is a powerful debut novel that pulls no punches. The dialogue is unique and the depth to which Geraghty explores his main character attached me to his journey. I laughed at the banter between friends and I wanted the best for Connor even though he erupted out of control on more than one occasion. I look forward to future works from Geraghty and recommend this book to anyone seeking a read that will have a profound emotional and social impact. I can't wait for more.
A Mind Polluted is a gritty, uncensored look into the Scottish schemes, focused on protagonist Connor Boyd and the struggles he faces growing up. When Connor overhears his mother telling his father that she wished her son hadn't been born, anger and hate begin to lead the thirteen-year-old boy into crime and self-destruction. Once the seeds are planted, we get to see how this impacts Connor as he moves away from family, lives with mates and falls in love. This spirals towards a stunning conclusion that I did not see coming, and I believe this book will stay with me for a long time.
This is a powerful debut novel that pulls no punches. The dialogue is unique and the depth to which Geraghty explores his main character attached me to his journey. I laughed at the banter between friends and I wanted the best for Connor even though he erupted out of control on more than one occasion. I look forward to future works from Geraghty and recommend this book to anyone seeking a read that will have a profound emotional and social impact. I can't wait for more.
September 2, 2018
Powerful and gritty
This isn't my normal read but it is one compelling book, crafted with intelligence and punch; a novel which truly brings home the poignancy of words and emotions during the formative years. An excellent depiction of working class Scotland, 3D characters and vibrant dialogue tie everything together into an impressive piece of work...
This isn't my normal read but it is one compelling book, crafted with intelligence and punch; a novel which truly brings home the poignancy of words and emotions during the formative years. An excellent depiction of working class Scotland, 3D characters and vibrant dialogue tie everything together into an impressive piece of work...
September 4, 2018
A cracking debut from Martin Geraghty.
April 28, 2018
great read, hard to believe this is Author's first book, loved the whole concept of the book, the character was believable and total sucked you into his world. The end was a total surprise great twist not what I expected. Hope to read more of this author.
May 9, 2018
I could talk about this book for pages. It is controversial in a sense that not everyone is going experience or evaluate the story of Connor the same way, and I don’t just mean the subjective reading experience each reader has. However first just let me say kudos to Geraghty for the ending. Talk about way out of left field, but in a way it creates an even bigger platform for discussion.
Imagine hearing something as a child that changes your entire outlook on life, your family and your attitude in general. The kind of comment that buries into your head like a parasite. A worm munching away at the stability of your temperament and personality, the stability of your relationships and inevitably changes your path in life.
Although the story gives you that initial perception I would also argue that Connor may have made the same choices irrespective of being privy to a comment made in anger or haste. The majority of kids and teens experience, see and hear things they aren’t supposed to, and yet it doesn’t automatically set them on a path of destruction.
The volatile aspect of his personality may have appeared eventually, and towards the end of the story someone does confront Connor with his constant need to blame others. He is always the victim and never the one at fault. No matter how controlling, how insulting or how abusive he is, he always blames the other person. In fact, a tree could fall on him from a great height in the middle of a desert and he would always blame his mother. The woman who has become his personal demon, the sat nav in his destructive life.
Someone give the child, the teen and the man a hefty slap, and tell him to take responsibility for his actions. His actions, his choices and ultimately his decisions. Although the story veers into the issue of mental health at one point, and he could certainly have done with a lot more support, especially as a child, I personally think the last pages speak to an altogether different evaluation.
The irony of A Mind Polluted is that at the end Connor and his mother probably have more in common than either of them are willing to acknowledge. The scales of nature vs nurture are weighing up equally by the end of this dark tale of anger and regret.
I have to hand it to Geraghty, you can read this and feel empathy or read it and feel the underlying current of aggression. It is a two-way path, a crossing, depending on your personal frame of reference. Is it a mind polluted by emotional turmoil or is the mind polluted from the get-go, a seed that grows when watered sufficiently with the right or wrong kind of nourishment?
*I received an ARC courtesy of the author.*
Imagine hearing something as a child that changes your entire outlook on life, your family and your attitude in general. The kind of comment that buries into your head like a parasite. A worm munching away at the stability of your temperament and personality, the stability of your relationships and inevitably changes your path in life.
Although the story gives you that initial perception I would also argue that Connor may have made the same choices irrespective of being privy to a comment made in anger or haste. The majority of kids and teens experience, see and hear things they aren’t supposed to, and yet it doesn’t automatically set them on a path of destruction.
The volatile aspect of his personality may have appeared eventually, and towards the end of the story someone does confront Connor with his constant need to blame others. He is always the victim and never the one at fault. No matter how controlling, how insulting or how abusive he is, he always blames the other person. In fact, a tree could fall on him from a great height in the middle of a desert and he would always blame his mother. The woman who has become his personal demon, the sat nav in his destructive life.
Someone give the child, the teen and the man a hefty slap, and tell him to take responsibility for his actions. His actions, his choices and ultimately his decisions. Although the story veers into the issue of mental health at one point, and he could certainly have done with a lot more support, especially as a child, I personally think the last pages speak to an altogether different evaluation.
The irony of A Mind Polluted is that at the end Connor and his mother probably have more in common than either of them are willing to acknowledge. The scales of nature vs nurture are weighing up equally by the end of this dark tale of anger and regret.
I have to hand it to Geraghty, you can read this and feel empathy or read it and feel the underlying current of aggression. It is a two-way path, a crossing, depending on your personal frame of reference. Is it a mind polluted by emotional turmoil or is the mind polluted from the get-go, a seed that grows when watered sufficiently with the right or wrong kind of nourishment?
*I received an ARC courtesy of the author.*
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews