The Fatherhood Mandate

By: M.E. Wright

Narrated by: Tyler Boruff

What happens when becoming a father is no longer a choice?

Sam Maxwell is looking forward to graduating from college. After breaking up with his on-again, off-again girlfriend for good, his life is suddenly derailed by a summons to Family Court. Wisconsin's pro-birth laws declare him the biological father of an embryo, which has been appointed a ward of the state.

Struggling with the sudden loss of his athletic scholarship, friends, and freedom after being placed under house arrest, Sam fights to keep his sense of self as his stubborn partner tries to force her own agenda. When a bad decision crosses the line set by the court, the angry young man faces devastating criminal charges . . . for a child that may not be his.

Will he find a path through this autocratic nightmare before his life is derailed forever?

Set in 2028, The Fatherhood Mandate is a captivating and dark dystopian novel that explores the mind-bending question of what bodily autonomy means to our society.

A must-listen for fans of The Marriage Act. Buy it today!

©2023 M.E. Wright (P)2024 M.E. Wright

Great read!

M.E. Wright's "The Fatherhood Mandate" is a unique and thought-provoking book that pulls you into a not-too-distant future and a world that feels eerily real.

The book stands out with its imaginative take on future laws related to parenthood. It shows a future that is fascinating and a bit scary, prompting you to think deeply about personal freedom and what it might mean in a world with different rules.

Sam, the main character, is easy to root for. Despite being put in a tough spot, he doesn't give up. He grows stronger and more determined, which makes for an inspiring read. Sam's journey through all the challenges thrown his way makes the story feel real and engaging.

"The Fatherhood Mandate" is a roller-coaster of a read, full of unexpected twists and turns. While it paints a grim picture of the future, it also showcases the human spirit's resilience in tough situations. This makes it an important read for those who enjoy stories that make them think.

Great story of a possible future

This is a great story that resonates with our current climate. The government overreacting to some aspects of our daily life's is real and this story brings it all together. Must read

Accountability

This was my first experience with M. E. Wright's work, and it was thought-provoking and absorbing. Sam Maxwell was summoned to Family Court after his ex-girlfriend was found to be pregnant. This book took place in a future where a man was held responsible for an unborn child. There were parts that I could totally agree with, but then there were other parts that made me question whether this was a society that I would endorse. Tyler Boruff's narration was great, and his performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review which reflected by opinions.

Very interesting...

This was an interesting read that definitely prompted a lot of thought. Most of the time, it felt like a slightly more Gilead setting than the one we’re currently living in, and was infuriating, but there were a few instances where I though, ‘Hmm maybe they’re onto something…’

For the most part, I enjoyed the read and would explore more from this author. Though it did end abruptly and there were things that weren’t really addressed. (For example, a lot of time was spent speculating and discussing whether Riley got pregnant on purpose / trapped him, etc. and this was never fully resolved.)

Overall though: a good read.

3.5 stars.


🎧 Audio:
The narrator was okay—not the best I’ve heard, but tolerable for the most part. There were a few times where he voiced a female in distress and it was physically painful on my ears but, mostly he did fine. Overall sound quality … there were a few little hiccups, sentences read twice, but overall it was good. 3 stars.

A realistic, disturbing dystopian future

Received as a review copy from Story Origin; also received an audio review copy, this is an honest review.

Narrated by Tyler Boruff, whom was an okay choice to perform this smart and engaging story but for myself the narration lack the fiery depth needed for such a book; feeling more as if this person was just reading the story, not bringing it to life.

This book is one of those hauntingly realistic dystopian story it left me bone-chilled. In this future in the state of Wisconsin, it just isn't pregnant woman forced into the prospect of motherhood... the father's of these children are also into demand to care for their partners and their future kids. And for Sam... he had a path laid out before him: college at Northwestern with and athletic scholarship and finally done and dusted with the intense relationship with Rylee; discovering her pregnant means both of their future are not longer of their choice. Forced into fall kinds of classes to teach what the state demanded to be ready parents; Sam is desperate to hold onto the what he wants a he struggles to be something for Rylee he never really wanted. And Rylee, while a controlling bitch, getting what she wants no.matter what; isn't without sympathy despite he very rough edges. Both along with all of these individuals in this story are victims of having lost of so many of their personal freedoms. Despite all of the struggles, neither Rylee or Sam cannot ignore the deep love the share for their daughter that will need them to face this world she's been born into.

Highly recommended.