by Mike Rinder
Mike Rinder was one of the highest ranking defectors from Scientology, having served as the head of the Office of Special Affairs (the organization’s intelligence and legal affairs wing) and as International Spokesman. In this remarkable memoir, he exposes the secret inner workings of the powerful organization that he was a part of for over thirty years.
Rinder paints a picture of a ruthless and oppressive regime that cynically uses mind control techniques to keep its members in line. He details the brutal punishments – including beatings and torture – that are meted out to those who dare to step out of line, as well as the intense pressure to donate money and time to the Church.
But A Billion Years is more than just an exposé of Scientology. It is also the story of Rinder’s own journey from idealistic young man to disillusioned victim and his eventual escape from the Church’s grip. Rinder is candid about his own mistakes and misdeeds, and provides an insightful look at how Scientology’s brainwashing techniques can enslave even the most intelligent and determined people.
This eye-opening book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of Scientology, or in learning more about what can happen when religious extremism takes hold.