Review by book_fanatic_ -- The Cult Next Door

book_fanatic_ · Post by **book_fanatic_** » 01 Jun 2020, 10:12

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Cult Next Door" by Elizabeth R. Burchard, Judith L. Carlone.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Do you know what does cult mean? Have you ever experienced or been a part of cultism? Have you ever lost a loved one due to cultism? Do you want to know what can be the hazardous consequences of cultism? Read this book and get the answers.

Elizabeth is a teenager who is stressed due to various complications in her life. Her mother introduces her to George Sharkman, a psychologist, and he seems to be the solution to all her problems. Liz, aka Elizabeth, joins his Stress Reduction Therapy and becomes a regular member. Over time, many people join the program and George, the Guru, claims that the “Energy” produced by him is the cure of all the troubles in the world. People believe all the psychological knowledge and philosophy that George introduces to them, but Liz seems to be confused at times. Her life isn’t smooth by any mean. She tries her level best, continues her hard work and stays favorable to the “Energy” just like George has advised, but nothing seems to work for her. She loses all her money in various expenses and is under massive debt. One after another tragedies happen in her life, and she loses control over everything that belongs to her. One day Liz encounters Judith in a meeting, and this person changes her life forever.

The Cult Next Door: A Manhattan Memoir is a non-fiction book by Elizabeth R. Burchard, LSW and Judith L. Carlone. It’s all about cultism, tragedies, hope and healing. It contains the true story of Elizabeth’s life, her adversities, defeat and finally, her victory. Liz squanders almost 20 years of her life to useless things and people who don’t care, and thus, it leads her to a state of anxiety and depression. She, along with other members of the “Group” is harassed – mentally, physically and financially. The Guru or Mentor sexually exploits women on the name of “breaking social barriers”. At last, Liz meets Judy (Judith) who makes her realize the truth, helps her to overcome her disasters and supports her to have a fresh start.

The story is divided into many phases of Liz’s life. It is written in the first-person narrative that shifts between Liz and Judy; it helps the reader to have an insight into Liz’s personality from her as well as her friend’s point of view. The paragraphs are well-structured and keep the reader engaged. The authors use the imagery in many places, and that provides a great visual of events to the reader.

The two main themes discussed in the book are cultism and the parent-child relationship. The so-called Gurus of cultism and their frauds are exposed fantastically. The book provides details on how these cheaters manipulate people and bedevil them. The sad thing is that the group members don’t even realize that they are being exploited. The way the authors portray this journey is commendable. I had tears in my eyes while reading about the struggle that Liz has faced due to her toxic mother and cunning mentor. It takes much strength to discuss such details about one’s own life, and I appreciate the author for that. This book would inspire many people. It would teach people never to lose hope in any situation. Elizabeth and Judith act as the symbols of strength and hope, respectively, and provide the message that it’s never too late to realize your mistakes, correct them and move on with a better life. Judy is the kind of friend that everyone needs in his life.

There is nothing that I disliked about this book. Each line intrigues the reader to read more and provides motivation.

I would say that the book is professionally edited as I found only one minor grammatical error while reading. I would recommend it to all the people who need some inspiration and motivation in their lives. Some characters in it use a few cuss words and phrases for Jesus Christ; thus, people who are looking forward to reading this one can take note of that in case they are offended by such things. Some horrific and awful incidents are described in detail, so, sensitive people can avoid reading it.

After discussing all the things above, I would rate this incredible book with 4 out of 4 stars. From the writing skills of the authors to the journey that is discussed, I loved everything about it.

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The Cult Next Door
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LinaJan · Post by **LinaJan** » 02 Jun 2020, 10:17

The title I bought right away. Having read your review, I am adding this to my shelf. It sounds like a heavy read but the sort I would like to endear. Your review is certainly very thorough and inviting! Thank you!

moowshiri · Post by **moowshiri** » 02 Jun 2020, 10:31

Wow! What a story! Liz's story sounds inspirational and also very educational. I must grab a copy of this. Thanks for your review.

book_fanatic_ · Post by **book_fanatic_** » 02 Jun 2020, 11:28

LinaJan wrote: ↑02 Jun 2020, 10:17 The title I bought right away. Having read your review, I am adding this to my shelf. It sounds like a heavy read but the sort I would like to endear. Your review is certainly very thorough and inviting! Thank you!

I hope you'll love it. Thanks for the kind words.

Post by **kandscreeley** » 02 Jun 2020, 19:20

I've always been interested in cults. It would be interesting to see how she gets started in one and then how she gets out of it. Thanks!

sirbobthewise · Post by **sirbobthewise** » 02 Jun 2020, 19:32

It’s always tough to come across a portion of a summary of a book, thinking that it must be a thriller novel of some kind, and then realizing that its non-fiction. Some scary stuff certainly exists in real life, huh. Cultism is definitely a reality, and I’m glad that the authors took the challenge of engaging a discussion on the delicate topic. I can imagine that Burchard’s LSW degree helped her navigate some of the thoughts, motivations, and implications of cultism, as well. Sounds like a fascinating book that I would be interested in reading! Thanks for a great review!

Prince Chime · Post by **Prince Chime** » 02 Jun 2020, 20:01

It indeed takes so much strength to talk about one's personal story. I must commend Elizabeth for putting this together to help everyone know how to avoid such pitfalls in their own lives. Nice review.

inaramid · Post by **inaramid** » 02 Jun 2020, 21:59

A while back, I reviewed a fictional book with this type of theme. The question that remained with me was, "So how exactly do you get out of something like that?" I think a non-fiction book such as this one - with real experiences and real steps that were taken - would give more concrete answers. Seems like there's a lot to learn here. Thanks for this review!

spencermack · Post by **spencermack** » 02 Jun 2020, 22:35

I had a very similar experience when I reviewed this book. Great review!

Mrunalpatki · Post by **Mrunalpatki** » 02 Jun 2020, 22:39

I've read this book and loved it so much as well. It's a touching story and exasperating too. Great review.

Prisallen · Post by **Prisallen** » 03 Jun 2020, 08:04

It sounds like Liz had a hard life. I'm glad that Judy came along, for her sake. Thanks for an informative and interesting review!

Kenesha Latoya Fowler · Post by **Kenesha Latoya Fowler** » 03 Jun 2020, 08:43

Wow! This sounds like quite a read. I hesitate to try it based on the fact that it's non-fiction. I am curious to know just how she got out, though. Intriguing indeed. Thank you.

Ellylion · Post by **Ellylion** » 03 Jun 2020, 08:55

Sounds like a must-read to everyone feeling uncertain and lost. The subject is too important not to read this book. Amazing review!

book_fanatic_ · Post by **book_fanatic_** » 03 Jun 2020, 09:23

moowshiri wrote: ↑02 Jun 2020, 10:31 Wow! What a story! Liz's story sounds inspirational and also very educational. I must grab a copy of this. Thanks for your review.

I'm sure you'll be motivated after reading this one. Thank you for commenting.

book_fanatic_ · Post by **book_fanatic_** » 03 Jun 2020, 09:24

kandscreeley wrote: ↑02 Jun 2020, 19:20 I've always been interested in cults. It would be interesting to see how she gets started in one and then how she gets out of it. Thanks!

Her journey had been a roller coaster ride. I hope you enjoy reading it. Thank you for stopping by and commenting.