Lauren Tesolin-Mastrosa, the Australian author of the controversial book Daddy’s Little Toy, was unable to keep her identity concealed despite her attempts to shield herself amid public backlash and death threats. Tesolin-Mastrosa, who wrote the novel under the pen name Tori Woods, is facing serious charges in connection with alleged child abuse material contained within her book.
The novel, which she issued to a group of 20 advanced readers in March, quickly drew the attention of law enforcement after concerns were raised about its content. On March 21, Tesolin-Mastrosa, a marketing executive for a Christian charity, was arrested in Quakers Hill, a suburb in Sydney’s northwest.
At a hearing earlier this week, her lawyer, Mickaela Mate, defended the novel’s content, asserting that the material in question was between two consenting adults in a fictional context. Mate argued that there were no real victims involved, as the content was purely fantasy. However, the case has gained significant attention due to the sensitive nature of the accusations.
Tesolin-Mastrosa’s efforts to keep her identity hidden were rejected in Blacktown Local Court on Monday. Despite the online threats, including violent comments from a TikTok user, the magistrate found no sufficient evidence that the publicity would cause her further harm or distress. The defense had argued that public exposure of the case had already caused serious distress, including fears for her safety and concerns about the potential influence on any future trials.
Barrister Matthew Lewis SC, representing the media, opposed any efforts to suppress her identity, emphasizing that the case had already garnered widespread attention, making such an order impractical. Magistrate Rami Attia ultimately declined to grant the suppression order, stating that there was no indication the media coverage had heightened the risk to Tesolin-Mastrosa’s safety, nor had it been proven that public reporting could unduly influence the outcome of the case.
Tesolin-Mastrosa has pleaded not guilty to charges of possessing, producing, and disseminating child abuse material. Her next court appearance is scheduled for June 5.
