Books Like...
'Shoes of a Servant' by Diane Benscoter is a compelling memoir that delves into the author's personal journey of being involved in the Moonie cult and her eventual escape. Through vivid storytelling, the book portrays the gradual process of how individuals can be drawn into cults, the manipulation of beliefs, and the struggle to break free from such entrapment. Readers get a glimpse into the author's experiences, the impact on her family, and the challenges she faced in regaining her freedom. The narrative is filled with authenticity, empathy, and a straightforward account of the author's cult experiences.
The book offers a thought-provoking insight into the workings of cults, the power of shared subjective reality, and the impact of cult programming on individuals. It highlights the importance of understanding how vulnerable individuals can be lured into such groups and the resilience required to break free from their influence. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and reflections, 'Shoes of a Servant' presents a compelling narrative that sheds light on the psychological complexities of cult involvement and the journey towards self-discovery and liberation.
If you liked Shoes of a Servant, here are the top 8 books to read next:
- #1
"Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs" by Rachel Jeffs is a shocking and disturbing true story that delves into the author's experiences growing up in the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints (FLDS) cult led by her father, Warren Jeffs. Through a first-hand account, Rachel recounts the emotional trauma, abuse, and manipulation she endured within the cult, shedding light on the inner workings of the FLDS community and the oppressive control exerted by her father. The writing style is compelling and straightforward, offering an honest expose of extremism and abuse while also showcasing Rachel's personal belief, strength, perseverance, and faith in her journey to break free from the cult.
Father was standing next to the Prophet’s casket at the front of the meeting house. The Prophet was Leroy Johnson, the leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and the only man ... "Raven: The Untold Story of the Rev. Jim Jones and His People" by Tim Reiterman delves into the life of Jim Jones, the leader of the Peoples Temple cult, and the tragic events that culminated in the Jonestown Massacre in 1978. Reiterman provides a detailed biography of Jones, exploring his upbringing, his manipulation of followers, and his descent into megalomania. The narrative not only covers the rise of Jones as a charismatic preacher but also delves into the social and political context of the time, shedding light on his socialist ideologies and the factors that drew people, especially minorities, to his cult.
is characterized by its thorough research and compassionate storytelling, offering a comprehensive account of the Jonestown tragedy. Reiterman's firsthand experience, having been shot during the events at Jonestown, adds a poignant and personal touch to the narrative. Through a mix of investigative journalism and historical analysis, the author paints a vivid picture of Jim Jones and the harrowing final moments of the Peoples Temple members, providing insights into the psychological manipulation and fear tactics employed by Jones.
There was more than the usual anticipation that spring as hardwood groves burst into green and plows cut ribbons across the sandy loam fields in east central Indiana. As in other years, the fertile fa...- #3
Blown for Good by Marc Headley is a memoir detailing life inside a Scientology compound and the author's eventual escape. The book exposes the dark truth behind Scientology, portraying it as a cult-like organization where followers face abuse, manipulation, and inhumane treatment. Headley's informal writing style draws readers in, providing personal insights and interpretations of the religion as he navigates through the ranks, making the narrative engaging and believable. The author's journey to freedom and reality, breaking through the control and conditioning of the cult, is portrayed as a testament to his strength of character.
They are driving right alongside me in the black Nissan Pathfinder. The roads are slick from the rain and I am in no position to do any sort of maneuvering with my bags on the motorbike. I round the t... - #4
"Seductive Poison" by Deborah Layton is a gripping memoir that delves into the author's personal experience within the People's Temple led by Jim Jones. Layton recounts her journey from being lured into the cult by Jones's magnetic appeal to her eventual escape from the horrors of Jonestown, Guyana. The narrative exposes the manipulative tactics, deception, and mind control practiced by Jones, shedding light on the inner workings of a cult that ultimately led to a tragic mass suicide.
Through Layton's vivid storytelling, readers are immersed in the chilling atmosphere of the People's Temple, witnessing the gradual realization of its dark reality and the struggle to break free from its grip. provides a detailed account of Layton's harrowing escape, offering a firsthand perspective on the psychological and physical abuse inflicted by Jones and the extreme measures taken to maintain control over the cult members.
My mother was a mystery to me. Beautiful, often quiet, she secretly sketched portraits of women, closing her portfolio whenever I came unexpectedly into the sunroom. I often felt I was intruding on so... - #5
Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige Hill is a memoir about the author's experience growing up in the Church of Scientology, specifically within the Sea Org, and her eventual escape from the cult. The book provides a firsthand account of the author's childhood within Scientology, detailing the strict lifestyle, grueling work schedules, and harsh punishments for mistakes. Through Jenna's narrative, readers get an in-depth look at the structure of the Church of Scientology and the personal struggles faced by its members.
Jenna Miscavige Hill's writing style is described as engaging, descriptive, and informative. She provides insight into Scientology using clear language and explanations, making the complex terminology and inner workings of the religion accessible to readers. The book is praised for its intelligent and witty writing, as well as for Jenna's ability to convey personal reflections on her experiences within the cult, creating a captivating and eye-opening narrative.
ONE OF MY EARLIEST MEMORIES OF SCIENTOLOGY WAS A CONVERSATION that happened when I was about four years old. At the time, my family was living in Los Angeles in an apartment that had been provided to ... 'The Road to Jonestown: Jim Jones and Peoples Temple' by Jeff Guinn is a thorough history of Jim Jones, exploring his evolution from a pro integrationist to a manipulative cult leader who orchestrated the Jonestown mass suicide. Guinn delves into Jones' childhood, his rise to power, and the events that led to the tragic end in Guyana in 1978. The writing style is captivating and detailed, drawing from a wide range of sources including direct interviews, making it a compelling non-fiction read that reads like a novel.
The way Lynetta Putnam Jones chose to remember it, she began life in privileged circumstances, was married only once to a handicapped veteran of World War I, was terribly mistreated by him and his cru...- #7
Set in the 1960s, "The Girls" by Emma Cline follows the story of Evie Boyd, a young teenager who becomes fascinated by a group of girls she encounters in a park. This group leads her to a Manson-like cult, where she seeks acceptance and belonging amidst the turmoil of her home life. The novel delves into the dynamics of the cult, the psychology of desire and obsession, and the consequences of being drawn into a dangerous lifestyle. Through a dual timeline narrative, readers witness Evie's experiences during that fateful summer and the impact it has on her in adulthood. The writing style is described as unique, disturbing, and honest, capturing the vulnerability and manipulation faced by young girls in a society where attention from men and unconscious manipulation are prevalent themes.
Cha ching, the slot machine in Connie’s garage went, like a cartoon, Peter’s features soaked in its rosy glow. He was eighteen, Connie’s older brother, and his forearms were the color of toast. His fr... - #8
Survivor by Chuck Palahniuk is a dark and twisted tale following Tender Branson, the last survivor of a religious cult that ended in mass suicide. The story delves into themes of religion, fame, and society, as Branson navigates his way through the aftermath of the cult's demise. The writing style is described as unique, with a detached narrative that immerses readers into Branson's world and thoughts. The plot unfolds through the confession of Branson, who hijacks an airplane and recounts his life in a darkly humorous and gripping manner.
But if you can hear me, listen. And if you’re listening, then what you’ve found is the story of everything that went wrong. This is what you’d call the flight recorder of Flight 2039. The black box, p...