Review of The Cult Next Door

[Izzy Kruger]

[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 is the spine-chilling real-life tale of how author, Elizabeth R. Burchard, was pulled into, and subsequently saved from, a New Age cult in Manhattan. By telling her story, she shows readers how easy it is to get indoctrinated when a person is vulnerable. But she also offers hope for rescue. The person who eventually helps her escape the evil clutches of her abuser, Judith R. Carlone, also wrote some of the book’s chapters from her perspective and how she experienced Elizabeth’s awakening. The reality of the damage that people can do to other people by isolating them from their friends and family, and breaking their self-confidence down to the point that they feel that they can’t stand on their own feet, is truly heartbreaking.

The book is well written, telling you about the main character’s background and what eventually led to her being in the position where someone could so horribly take advantage of her. She doesn’t sugar-coat any of the details or the part she played along the path to her own destruction. She also follows through by explaining some of the legal brick walls she ran into when she wanted to report her abuser. The law in America leaves no space to protect the victims of cults or prosecute their offenders, which is horrendous! The author also provided some discussion questions and links to valuable resources at the end of the book.

The only part of the book that I didn’t quite enjoy is the fact that the book’s contents might make certain readers extremely uncomfortable. But that is, unfortunately, the truth of the facts. However, I think there should be some warning on the front of the book to prepare readers for the content because the blurb and book description alone doesn’t adequately prepare you for what is in store. This book could be classified as a psychological thriller.

I give this book 4 out of 4 stars as it was well-edited and very easy to read. It is an honest book that serves both as a warning and a story of hope.

This is a good book for people who enjoy good honest memoirs. It is definitely not suitable for sensitive readers. Also a good resource for people who want to learn more about the cults in America and how to help someone who might find themselves in the horrible clutches of one.

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The Cult Next Door
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