Books matching: books about cults
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'Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith' by Jon Krakauer is a nonfiction account that delves into the fanatical history of the Mormons, focusing on a murder in the 1980s that sheds light on the dark side of the religion. The book provides a detailed exploration of Mormonism, from its origins to its modern-day fundamentalist practices, intertwining historical events with a contemporary crime to give readers a comprehensive look at the religion's evolution. Krakauer's writing style is captivating, blending true crime elements with religious history to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
And it shall come to pass that I, the Lord God, will send one mighty and strong, holding the scepter of power in his hand, clothed with light for a covering, whose mouth shall utter words, eternal wor...- #2
Save:Set in the 1960s, "The Girls" by Emma Cline follows the story of Evie Boyd, a young teenager who becomes fascinated by a group of girls she encounters in a park. This group leads her to a Manson-like cult, where she seeks acceptance and belonging amidst the turmoil of her home life. The novel delves into the dynamics of the cult, the psychology of desire and obsession, and the consequences of being drawn into a dangerous lifestyle. Through a dual timeline narrative, readers witness Evie's experiences during that fateful summer and the impact it has on her in adulthood. The writing style is described as unique, disturbing, and honest, capturing the vulnerability and manipulation faced by young girls in a society where attention from men and unconscious manipulation are prevalent themes.
Cha ching, the slot machine in Connie’s garage went, like a cartoon, Peter’s features soaked in its rosy glow. He was eighteen, Connie’s older brother, and his forearms were the color of toast. His fr... 'The Road to Jonestown: Jim Jones and Peoples Temple' by Jeff Guinn is a thorough history of Jim Jones, exploring his evolution from a pro integrationist to a manipulative cult leader who orchestrated the Jonestown mass suicide. Guinn delves into Jones' childhood, his rise to power, and the events that led to the tragic end in Guyana in 1978. The writing style is captivating and detailed, drawing from a wide range of sources including direct interviews, making it a compelling non-fiction read that reads like a novel.
The way Lynetta Putnam Jones chose to remember it, she began life in privileged circumstances, was married only once to a handicapped veteran of World War I, was terribly mistreated by him and his cru...'Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism' by Amanda Montell delves into the impact of language on fanaticism, exploring how cult leaders use specific linguistic tactics to manipulate and control their followers. Through examples and definitions, Montell provides insights into thought terminating cliches, confirmation bias, and other psychological concepts. is divided into six parts, covering topics ranging from cults and religions to multi-level marketing schemes and fitness movements. Montell's writing style is described as easy to read, engaging, and informative, with a focus on how language can be used to coerce and condition individuals.
Tasha Samar was thirteen years old the first time she heard the bewitching buzz of their voices. It was their turban-to-toe white ensembles and meditation malas that first caught her eye, but it was h...'Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders' by Vincent Bugliosi is a chilling account of the Manson Family's heinous crimes and the subsequent trial that shook America in the late 1960s. Through detailed narration and a riveting writing style, Bugliosi and Gentry paint a vivid picture of the Tate-LaBianca murders, shedding light on Manson's manipulative tactics and the intricacies of the American legal system. The book delves into the psyche of Charles Manson and his followers, exploring the complexities of their actions and the impact on their victims and society as a whole.
Bugliosi's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to provide a factual yet engaging narrative make this book a standout in the true crime genre. Readers are drawn into the disturbing world of the Manson Family, from the gruesome crimes to the courtroom drama, experiencing a mix of fear, fascination, and disbelief. The authors' comprehensive research and compelling storytelling offer a deep dive into one of the most infamous criminal cases in history, leaving a lasting impression on those who dare to uncover the dark truths within its pages.
It was hot that night, but not as hot as the night before, when the temperature hadn’t dropped below 92 degrees. The three-day heat wave had begun to break a couple of hours before, about 10 P.M. on F...- #6
Save:"Seductive Poison" by Deborah Layton is a gripping memoir that delves into the author's personal experience within the People's Temple led by Jim Jones. Layton recounts her journey from being lured into the cult by Jones's magnetic appeal to her eventual escape from the horrors of Jonestown, Guyana. The narrative exposes the manipulative tactics, deception, and mind control practiced by Jones, shedding light on the inner workings of a cult that ultimately led to a tragic mass suicide.
Through Layton's vivid storytelling, readers are immersed in the chilling atmosphere of the People's Temple, witnessing the gradual realization of its dark reality and the struggle to break free from its grip. provides a detailed account of Layton's harrowing escape, offering a firsthand perspective on the psychological and physical abuse inflicted by Jones and the extreme measures taken to maintain control over the cult members.
My mother was a mystery to me. Beautiful, often quiet, she secretly sketched portraits of women, closing her portfolio whenever I came unexpectedly into the sunroom. I often felt I was intruding on so... Lawrence Wright's book, "Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief," offers a deep dive into the controversial world of Scientology, from its origins with L. Ron Hubbard to its present-day status under David Miscavige's leadership. The book uncovers the secretive practices of the church, including billion-year contracts, abusive punishments, and the involvement of high-profile celebrities like Tom Cruise and John Travolta. Wright's writing style is captivating, combining clear, informative storytelling with a touch of humor and disbelief as he exposes the inner workings of the church and its impact on both members and society at large.
London, Ontario, is a middling manufacturing town halfway between Toronto and Detroit, once known for its cigars and breweries. In a tribute to its famous namesake, London has its own Covent Garden, P...- #8
Save:"Last Days" by Adam Nevill is a horror novel that follows struggling filmmaker Kyle as he embarks on a documentary project about a cult that ended in tragedy. The storyline delves into the paranormal and occult, with a mix of psychological horror and found footage elements. The author's writing style is described as atmospheric and creepy, building tension and anticipation throughout the narrative. Some readers found the premise intriguing, while others felt that the writing was uneven, with moments of clunky prose that detracted from the overall experience.
And the woman could hear those old friends moving in the distant, and not so distant rooms of her home. Old friends she tried to forget for longer than she had the strength to remember. Until she unde... - #9
Save:'Last Days' by Brian B.K. Evenson is a dark and twisted tale following Kline, a detective who is forced to investigate a murder within an underground religious cult that glorifies amputation. The story delves into themes of extreme violence, body horror, and the exploration of religion taken to its most gruesome extremes. Evenson's writing style is described as intense, lean, and haunting, with a plot that unfolds in a chillingly realistic manner that keeps readers on edge.
The second time was worse than the first, both because he already knew how it would feel and because of how much thicker an elbow is than a wrist. Still, he managed it, left-handed, despite Borchert's... - #10
Save:Educated by Tara Westover is a memoir recounting the author's tumultuous childhood growing up in Idaho in a dysfunctional family. Tara's father, a strict Mormon and anti-government supporter, forbids her from attending school, leading her to work in the family's scrap yard instead. Despite the isolation and abuse she faces at home, Tara eventually breaks free and pursues education, earning scholarships and grants to study at prestigious universities like Cambridge and Harvard. The book delves into themes of familial dysfunction, survivalism, mental illness, and the transformative power of education.
My strongest memory is not a memory. It’s something I imagined, then came to remember as if it had happened. The memory was formed when I was five, just before I turned six, from a story my father tol...
