Review of The Cult Next Door

[MysticSpade]

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

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4 out of 4 stars

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The Cult Next Door by Elizabeth R. Burchard and Judith L. Carlone is a true story that perfectly defines what it means to “drink the Kool-Aid”. Liz unexpectedly lost her loving father at a young age and was left with her emotionally and physically abusive mother Rachael. Rachael wasted thousands of dollars on crazy health remedies, diets, and doctors which led her to stress reduction therapy under the supervision of George Sharkman. A shark is exactly what he was. Liz recalls the sickening details of what it was like to fall under the spell of this master manipulator. Later in the novel, Judy’s account shares an outsider’s perspective of how asinine and controlling George and his teachings truly were.

Using bits and pieces from psychology, religion and biofeedback, George created his following. He made himself out to be a prophet using antics like violently shaking his head and exaggerated body tremors caused by a universal energy. This evil man successfully robbed thousands of dollars from numerous women through half logic and smooth-talking. For example, he made them sit naked and touch each other so they wouldn’t be ashamed of what’s “natural”. He also claimed to teach himself to create body heat so he didn’t need a coat in the winter. Typically when we hear about these cults, we think to ourselves, “How did they not know? Couldn’t they leave at any time?” Unfortunately no, and it’s because of this book that I can truly understand why.

This book was well written and easy to read which is why it was difficult to put down. Ms. Burchard did an excellent job of portraying every emotion she experienced during this harrowing journey. From depression to euphoria, as a reader, it felt like you were experiencing them yourself. As crazy and disgusting as George’s antics were, the authors provided vivid examples that made vulnerable women fall under his spell. The only thing I disliked about the book was Judy’s perspective added in the second half. It broke the overall flow of the novel and it was confusing because both author’s perspectives were told in the first person.

Between a dramatic storyline and an exceptional writing style, The Cult Next Door deserves nothing less than 4 out of 4 stars. I am happy to report this book was professionally edited. It’s full of drama, jaw-dropping stories, and mind-blowing deception. I’m still in complete shock knowing this is the true story of a woman pulled into a world that would rob her of her innocence.

Although there are instances of sexual exploitation and the story revolves around cult experiences, this is a novel suitable for young adults and older. If you’re someone who enjoys nonfiction that reads like fiction, you will also thoroughly enjoy this novel. This is one I will be recommending over and over. I promise you will not be disappointed.

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The Cult Next Door
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[NancyDrew12]

This novel sounds very interesting! I'm not a huge fan of nonfiction but sense it reads like fiction it might just be my type of book. Thank you for your detailed review!