Caa-R 42: How far would you go for something you believe in?

In a future where animal abusers are punished by AI-supported justice, the world must decide whether revenge is protection or the start of a new type of cruelty.

In the year 2042, hurting animals is no longer just cruelty - it’s a crime.

The CAA-R (Crimes Against Animals – Rehabilitation) initiative was created to educate abusers and reshape humanity’s relationship with animals. Led by visionary tech mogul Jameson Drake (JD), it promised justice, reform, and a safer world for all animals.

But rehabilitation was only the beginning.

Now, under the influence of JD’s shadowy new partner known only as the Hunter, CAA-R has evolved into something far darker. Supported by advanced AI humanoids and using biochemical manipulation, the mission has shifted from reform…to revenge.

Because if someone harms the innocent, shouldn’t they suffer too?

As punishments become spectacles and revenge becomes embedded in the fabric of the CAA-R organisation, the line between justice and cruelty vanishes. And when tenacious journalist Jayde uncovers the truth, she teams up with Evie - CAA-R’s original co-founder - to expose what the organisation has become.

But can they stop a system that global political leaders appear to endorse?

Or has humanity already crossed the point where revenge feels right?

A chilling dystopian thriller exploring justice, power, and how easily righteousness can turn into cruelty.


About the Author

S. Payne was born in Bristol, UK, and has lived and worked across Australia, Europe, and the Middle East. With over two decades in high-pressure corporate environments, Payne draws on a global perspective and a deep interest in human behaviour, ethics, and power structures.

Alongside a career in industry, Payne has been involved in hands-on animal rescue work - an experience that inspired the moral questions at the heart of this debut dystopian thriller.

When not working or writing, Payne can usually be found rescuing animals, travelling, observing people, or quietly plotting the next story.

This is Payne’s first novella - with more to come.