Review of The Cult Next Door

[Amtheyst M]

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

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3 out of 4 stars

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The book delves into the world of cult leaders and their followers. Elizabeth R. Burchard spent years in this cult and eventually left with the support of Judith L. Carlone. The Cult Next Door recounts a tale of the loss and heartache experienced by Elizabeth. Elizabeth is young and depressed. She is described as a lonely teenager filled with angst. Her mother drags her to numerous faith healers. Eventually, they meet George. George works for a medical professional. He is the cult leader. George is fired from his job because numerous women complain about his inappropriate behavior. In a world filled with chaos, George teaches his followers a new way of life. He believes he possesses energy that can save the world. The followers, in exchange for his wisdom, had to pay for the services he offered. Energy would provide for his followers that were financially unwell as his bank account increased day by day. Elizabeth declares bankruptcy in the end.

I have always been curious about cult leaders and their followers. After all, cult leaders can seemingly manipulate the average, educated person to do their bidding. Elizabeth went to college. Elizabeth's mother seems like a lost soul looking for acceptance and love. George stole money and abused women. Even though Elizabeth questions herself about this, she remains in the cult. Her mother is devoted to George. It contributes to the reason she remains in the cult for such a long period of time.

The use of metaphors and witty descriptions to emphasize the feelings of the characters is good. The chapters are short. Elizabeth's emotions and thought processes are well written. I can understand the pain and loss Elizabeth experienced. Sadly, people like George exist in this world.

When a new character is introduced, their roles are not clearly identified. I had to go back and read certain parts twice to figure who certain people were. I like to know more about Elizabeth's mother. The reasons why her mother never questions George’s behavior leads me to believe she had experienced some trauma in her past. It would have been nice to get a greater understanding of her.

The book is well-edited. I cannot find any punctuation or spelling errors. I give the book 3 out of 4 stars. It would appeal to an adult audience who, like me, is curious about cults. This book would be helpful to someone who is in a similar situation.

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The Cult Next Door
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