Cultown is the story of Thomas Swan, a charismatic figure who forms a cult called the Milinish. With an odd mix of scientific and religious beliefs, the Milinish begins in Sydney, then moves overseas to become the fastest growing cult in America. Yet Swan's mad reign spirals out of control. Finally, on the brink of disaster, he decides to tell all. Here, in the ultimate inside story, Thomas Swan reveals the secrets and scandals inside the greatest cult of the 21st century.

Cultown is interesting on a number of levels. It explores the psychology of cults: those who...