The Apocrypha

A pall of mental trauma hangs over the "Apocryphals", a group of boys from a Roman Catholic College in Melbourne. The trauma is slowly revealed to the reader by leader, Ashley. The only way to join this group of "Apocryphals" is to be sexually abused by Father O'Halloran. By a series of time warps, this becomes apparent. One of the boys is unable to cope, and has taken his own life. The remaining members of the "Apocryphals" are all severely damaged to the point they are unable to function. - Keith was, "into drugs and stuff, sometimes sleeps rough, even cuts himself."

Ashley becomes a lawyer and is pushed on by Samantha to expose Father O'Halloran. He knows she is right. However, he is held back for fear of hell and damnation if he does. The way of the Catholic Church at the time was to transfer sexual offenders. When O'Halloran is moved on, the Church has to decide what to do with him - "the question is what to do with you (Father O'Halloran) - those who place their trust in you. Something has to give."

Eventually the offending priest is arrested, and the police officer says to him, "No doubt you'll.....demand every privilege.....everything you denied those boys." The Church will play a part in what happens next. Does he get committed? Does Ashley find a life far away from his nightmares?

This book, The Apocrypha by B.A. Keon - Cohen deals with the distressing subject of sexual abuse in a very different manner and makes it a compelling read.

Judith Flitcroft, author of Walk Back in Time

So many young lives forever damaged. Innocence trampled in evil hypocrisy of lust masquerading as servant of God.

Compelling, honest insight into courageous, sexually abused young lives fighting for justice.

Review Vivian Waring, author of When Tears Ran Dry)