Books Like...

'The Project' by Courtney Summers is a gripping story about two sisters, Bea and Lo, whose lives take a dramatic turn when one of them joins a cult called The Unity Project. The book delves into the complexities of their relationship, the allure and danger of cults, and the lengths one would go to in order to save a loved one. The plot is intricately woven, alternating between past and present timelines, keeping readers guessing and engaged. Courtney Summers' writing style is described as skillful, creating vivid imagery and masterfully drawing readers into the world of The Unity Project.

The Sacred Lies of Minnow Bly by Stephanie Oakes is a gripping and haunting young adult novel that delves into the life of Minnow, a 17-year-old girl raised in a religious cult called the Kevinian Community. The story unfolds as Minnow navigates life in juvenile detention after committing a violent act, revealing her traumatic past within the cult where she endured abuse and had her hands cut off. Through a series of flashbacks, the book explores themes of faith, survival, justice, and the consequences of blind obedience, offering a dark and emotional narrative that captivates readers with its raw and powerful storytelling.

The plot is delivered through a mix of mystery, intrigue, and emotional depth, focusing on Minnow's resilience and courage as she grapples with her past and strives to find her own identity outside the confines of the cult. The writing style is described as captivating, beautifully written, and realistic, with a blunt and to-the-point approach that mirrors the protagonist's personality. The book presents a compelling exploration of cult life, trauma, and the journey towards self-discovery, making readers question the complexities of faith, freedom, and individuality in the face of harrowing experiences.

Arcadia by Lauren Groff is a beautifully written novel that delves into the life of Bit, a boy born in an upstate New York hippie commune in the 1960s. The story follows the rise and fall of Arcadia, a commune that starts small but grows into a large counter-cultural hub before collapsing under the weight of egos, permissiveness, drugs, and sex. Through Bit's perspective, readers witness his journey from viewing Arcadia as a perfect and idyllic world to discovering its flaws and eventually venturing out into the wider world. Groff's prose is described as poetic and rich, capturing both the language and the depth of the story.

'The Cult' unfolds a thrilling narrative centered around Maynard, a frustrated journalist who embarks on an impulsive trip to the remote Caicos Islands, bringing along his 12-year-old son, Justin. The plot thickens as they discover a hidden society of 18th-century pirates who have survived into modern times, engaging in looting and barbaric activities. As Maynard navigates this perilous environment, he becomes increasingly desperate to escape with his son, who begins to adapt to the brutal lifestyle of the islanders. The writing style presents a mix of adventure and suspense, capturing the essence of a classic tale where danger lurks at every corner.

However, while the concept of a secluded society untouched by the outside world is intriguing, some readers noted inconsistencies in the plot and character development. Critics pointed out that character transformations, such as Justin's rapid shift from a timid boy to a potential leader among the pirates, felt unrealistic. Additionally, Maynard's passive demeanor and futile escape attempts detracted from the overall enjoyment of the story. Despite these shortcomings, the narrative offers a captivating exploration of survival and parental instincts in the face of overwhelming odds.

Foxlowe is a chilling and creepy story about a close-knit commune living in an old manor house on the English moors. The book follows the perspective of Green, a young girl who grows up in the commune under the rule of the enigmatic and abusive leader, Freya. As the story unfolds in three parts, it delves into the disturbing dynamics within the commune, the indoctrination of its members, and the eventual unraveling of their utopian facade. The narrative style is described as abrupt and unsettling, with a slow build-up to a shocking finale that leaves readers captivated and disturbed.

The Ash Family by Molly Dektar follows the story of a young woman named Berie who, feeling lost and pressured to go to college, decides to join an off-the-grid farming commune known as The Ash Family. Led by the charismatic Dice, the group's seemingly idyllic lifestyle soon reveals darker aspects as Berie, now known as Harmony, is drawn into a world of manipulation, surveillance, and violence. The novel explores Berie's struggle for belonging, her internal conflicts, and the gradual realization of the true nature of the commune she's become a part of.

"Monkey on a Stick" delves into the dark and tumultuous world of the ISKCON community in the mid-1980s, focusing on the New Vrindaban community in West Virginia. The narrative uncovers a series of crimes including murders, child abuse, spousal abuse, and drug smuggling, all intertwined with the rise and fall of the renegade guru Kirtanananda. The authors also shed light on the power struggles and corruption within the ISKCON movement after the death of the original founder, Prabhupada, in 1977. presents a true crime genre style, mixing rumors and conjecture with real-life events to paint a vivid picture of the scandals and tragedies that plagued the Hare Krishna movement during that period.

The novel 'Cult X' by Fuminori Nakamura delves into the dark world of fringe cults and terrorism in Japan. The story follows a young man's quest to find a woman who has joined a mysterious cult, leading him to explore themes of extremism, philosophy, and Japanese politics. As the plot unfolds, the reader is exposed to a complex narrative that weaves together elements of love, violence, and religious fanaticism, ultimately culminating in a chaotic and thought-provoking conclusion.

Nakamura's writing style in 'Cult X' is described as gritty, dark, and provocative, reminiscent of noir literature. The novel presents a challenging read, with long discourses on topics ranging from good and evil to astrophysics and neuroscience, pushing readers to confront the darker aspects of human nature and society. Despite its challenging nature, the book offers a passionate message about identity, humanity, and the chaos of reality, leaving a lasting impact on those who delve into its pages.

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.

"The Program: Inside the Mind of Keith Raniere and the Rise and Fall of Nxivm" by Toni Natalie provides a firsthand account of the author's experiences within the NXIVM cult. Natalie bravely shares her personal journey with Keith Raniere, detailing the manipulative tactics and horrors she faced while trying to expose the criminal activities of the cult. The writing style is straightforward, offering insights into the workings of a cult and the struggles of a survivor trying to seek justice against a psychopathic leader.