Review by Mrunalpatki -- The Cult Next Door

[Mrunalpatki]

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

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The Cult Next Door is Elizabeth’s extraordinarily true story of how she got attracted to a cult, lived through it for a little over 20 years and then broke free with the help of a friend Judith Carlone. This book is a narration of Elizabeth’s tale as well as Judith’s. It is divided into ten parts based on how Elizabeth’s life progressed into and through the cult, a little like milestones. Each part has several chapters chronologically arranged based on significant dates or periods in her life. The book is 307 pages published by Two Poles Press LLC.

I found this book extraordinary in several aspects. First, the story itself is a unique one. The author, Elizabeth, was right in deciding to write her story as a book. I have never read or heard about a life so extraordinary because finding yourself drawn to a purpose as simple as wanting to better yourself is everyone’s goal in life. While pursuing this goal finding yourself trusting in a man, her therapist, George Sharkman, who understands her and her vulnerabilities and then falling prey to his manipulative, abusive ways and continuing to live in his shadows for two decades is shocking. Yet, breaking free of that influence without any violence, physical or verbal or without hurting a fly and finding her freedom is what is unique about this story. The story portrays that no matter what your education or financial background anyone of us is susceptible to an authoritative influence.

Second, finding the courage to write your own story, after you’ve lived through the hell and writing about your own messed up mother, not to mention going through that pain all over again while remembering the events is commendable. She was destined to find an angel in the form of Judith, who helped her out without any use of force and just convincing her through simple common sense.

The third reason I loved the book, the language used in the book is rich, it unfolds wonderfully and yet the book is an easy read. There is no use of profanity anywhere, although I would have completely understood if the author had felt like venting out her anger, going through what she did. I myself had the urge to curse her so-called “guru” a few times while reading. A thumbs-up to the editing, too, it was exceptional.

The fourth compelling reason, the book’s genre though non-fiction, is every bit a page-turner. I found I couldn’t put down the book through all the tremulous emotions I experienced while reading the book. I just had to find out if her poor soul did find an anchor to hold and climb out of the bottomless dark pit she was in. At times I did feel like blaming Elizabeth for being so stupid and not seeing what was clear as daylight to me. But then I put myself in her shoes and realized that with the strong family and friend support I have, it is easy for me to blame her as an outsider. She had nobody but herself.

Fifth and last, Elizabeth’s memoir is an eye-opener for everyone who is or was part of a cult. Or anyone who has experienced some form of mind control by others in their life. Cults manipulate through emotions and vulnerability, something all of us experience some time. The honest, candid tone of the book is inspiring to anyone looking to break free of oppression in their lives. Elizabeth has portrayed the two sides, namely the attraction and the repulsion to a cult virtuously in this book.

All the above reasons, and I wish to give this memoir a perfect rating with 4 out of 4 stars. There is nothing I could dislike about the book. Everyone must read this heroic tale. People sensitive to abuse may avoid it. I am glad I picked up this book to read, and I am thrilled to know after having read the book that Elizabeth Burchard endured. Cheers to her!

******
The Cult Next Door
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Anon_Reviewer]

I definitely agree; sharing a story like this couldn't have been easy. Kudos to the author for being so brave. Thanks for the review!

[Mrunalpatki]

I definitely agree; sharing a story like this couldn't have been easy. Kudos to the author for being so brave. Thanks for the review!

Thanks for stopping by.