The Second Coming

by Greg McLaughlin

When Jesus walked the earth as the “Son of God”, the Roman-occupied world had reached a pinnacle of social, intellectual and technological sophistication, never previously achieved in human history. And yet millions of people worldwide put their faith in a profit that they blindly believed could be the Messiah. Similarly, when Mohamed came to the Arabian Peninsula, he gained a vast following of people believing his scriptures, teachings and messages to be the divine Word of God. The ensuing global movements, that formed in their wakes, attracting billions of followers, sparked both environments of peace, love and community as well as religious violence and cultural derision. What would happen if a similar figure walked the earth in the present day - at this time of such great social, scientific and enlightened awareness and advancement? Would people believe? Like the revolutionary movements of the past, could a new following emerge and galvanize the spiritual and religious landscape of our culture and society? Would we put a new, modern divine profit on a pedestal? Or on a cross? Would a Second Coming triumphantly unite our world or violently tear it apart?

Audible Audio

Published February 25, 2024

About the author

I live in Greenwich, CT with my wife and two boys, 22 and 19. I graduated in 1991 with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in Film Studies from Rhode Island College. I later earned my Masters of Business Administration from the University of Connecticut.

I’ve worked in Journalism, Marketing and Management Consulting for my career. Additionally, I’ve written fiction as a passionate hobby for the past twenty years, and have completed ten fictional novels including "The Curve in the Road", "The Triple Date", "The Second Coming", "The Third Party", "Broken English", "Under the Aurora", "Matunuck", "Erosion" (the sequel to Matunuck, and my newest release, "Il Pleure Dand Mon Coeur", co-written with my father who, sadly passed away in March, 2021.

I tend to write in two distinct genres including intense social-political contemporary thrillers and cozy romantic comedies.

I also published a personal memoir about my recent quest to lose 80 pounds, get in the best shape of my life - at 47 years old - and compete in the USA Wrestling Folkstyle Senior National Championship.

Reviews

[H.R. Kemp · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a complex and suspenseful novel. It envisages a second coming and it's impact on the current world. The premise is bold, but the story appeals even to those who are not religious. The writer draws a strong cast of characters, giving us insight through backstory and intimate glimpses into their journey. The story builds and pulls the reader into the lives of the key characters, and then unleashes an action-packed finale. It is a deep and satisfying story, the plot is complex and realistic, providing a reflection of the social fabric of our times.
The writing style is crisp and uses evocative images and analogies to bring the story to life.
Overall, this is a well-written and enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it.

[Brittanny Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A True Masterpiece

The Second Coming is a true magnum opus for Greg McLaughlin. In it, he tackles the questions and concepts that men of all religions – Christians, Muslims, Jews – are plagued by… what if there was a second coming, would you believe or be a skeptic? His characters are well drawn and relatable, their backstories woven in nicely and easy to believe in, and the message from Jaio on multiple occasions was stated beautifully. Suspense and drama highlighted the book; it was enjoyable from page 1 on. The ending was perfect and the whole book gave the reader pause to ponder, as all good books will.

My only regret in reading this is that I have no more books by McLaughlin left to read. Definitely read it – you won’t regret it.