Contemporary
Inside a secret prison, futuristic science and an unexpected “something else” enable a psychopath killer to find redemption. A novel about a more profound redemption because the criminal is guilty, remorseless, and deserves never to be let out of prison.
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Joe, a violent sadistic offender since his teens, has received a life sentence for multiple murder. But is it enough? Most traditional life sentences have a fixed ‘minimum term’ which means most rapists and killers will eventually be freed. It’s only a matter of time. But their victims cannot be brought back from the dead, or from psychic mutilation they have suffered. Their families endure a true ‘life sentence’ of suffering from which there is no possibility of parole or early prison release.
A clique of retired judges, called ‘The Project’, have formed a secret supreme court to covertly review all the traditional life sentences, and, in cases of the worst injustices, intervene. They employ a network of ghosts to secretly whisk away the selected prisoner, Joe in this case, to the invisible supermax, a futuristic prison. There, Joe is forced to undergo a radical treatment of self-discovery called The Born Again, conducted by four mysterious doctors and an android robot. Few inmates can endure. They either commit suicide or go mad. Joe must find a way to survive The Born Again.
“The story has a gripping plot which offers great originality. It is a pleasure to read such a profound, intelligent piece of writing. It’s certainly opened my eyes to a more spiritual understanding of life, and has given me hope.” Abby Davis, author and editor at Jericho Writers
Here's what readers have to say about this book....
A compelling narrative that delves into the challenging themes of justice, redemption, and the very nature of change. The story centers on Joe, a violent offender serving a life sentence for multiple murders. However, a clandestine group of retired judges known as 'The Project' intervenes, whisking Joe away to a futuristic, secret supermax prison. Here, he is subjected to a radical and harrowing treatment called 'The Born Again,' a process of intense self-discovery overseen by mysterious doctors and an android. Mullins presents a unique and thought-provoking premise, questioning the limits of traditional punishment and exploring the potential, however slim, for genuine transformation in even the most hardened individuals. The novel masterfully blends elements of speculative fiction with profound moral and spiritual inquiries. As Joe navigates the brutal and psychologically demanding 'Born Again' treatment, the reader is drawn into his internal struggle, forced to confront uncomfortable questions about forgiveness, the possibility of remorse in the seemingly remorseless, and society's role in rehabilitation. Mullins doesn't shy away from the darkness of Joe's past, yet he delicately weaves in threads of hope and the potential for a deeper understanding of self. "The Born Again" is a gripping and intelligent read that lingers in the mind long after the final page, prompting reflection on the complexities of human nature and the elusive path to redemption.
Very impressive! As a former practicing forensic psychiatrist dealing with male personality disordered individuals, I wish that I had this book available at an early stage in my career. I am very impressed by the interweaving of religious, psychological and redemptive themes, especially by the understanding of remorse as that is usually shallowly understood. It is one of those books that needs reading several times to get the most of it.
This is a very unusual story. It investigates right and wrong and should we pay for our crimes. I read it in one long sitting, I couldn't put it down. It makes you think uncomfortable thoughts and to reflect on justice. The author is not afraid to challenge the reader whilst still crafting an exciting, immersive story.
A white knuckle ride! This really is quite a scary story! I thought at first of Clockwork Orange and then the later parts of 1984. Add to that predatory sexual aggression on minors and a good dose of Catholic guilt! The book flows well because the writing is good. It is set in a futuristic prison with four mysterious doctors and a robot. It’s a dystopian take on rehabilitation and explores the question – can murderers and psychopaths truly find remorse and redemption? Certainly of great interest to those people working in this field. The extra judicial activity of a secret group of judges comes almost as a lighter moment!
Brilliant thought inspiring read! I finished this masterpiece last night. What an amazingly good book. It is very thought inspiring and I didn’t really want it to end! Totally enjoyed it from start to finish, and no I’m not just saying it. With a book if it doesn’t grab my attention first couple of chapters, I won’t continue. It’s truly something to recommend. It’s thought making and intriguing. The research is brilliant and must of taken lots of research and the back from childhood to present is so well done as sometimes you get lost in it all. Brilliant work!” Can’t recommend it enough and really hope there’s a follow on from it!
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