Books Like...
"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.
If you liked Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs, here are the top 37 books to read next:
'In the Days of Rain: A Daughter, a Father, a Cult' by Rebecca Stott is a gripping memoir that delves into the author's upbringing in the Exclusive Brethren sect, highlighting the oppressive and controlling nature of cults. Stott masterfully navigates through the complexities of her family's entanglement within the cult, shedding light on the impact it had on their relationships and individual lives. The narrative offers a thought-provoking exploration of faith, control, and the lasting effects of growing up in a restrictive religious community.
Stott's writing style in 'In the Days of Rain' is praised for its honesty, candidness, and dark humor, which adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Readers appreciate Stott's ability to convey the emotional turmoil and struggles faced by her family, as well as her own journey of coming to terms with her past. The book skillfully weaves together personal anecdotes, historical context, and reflections on faith, making it a compelling and insightful read for those interested in the dynamics of cults and the resilience of the human spirit.
My father did the six weeks of his dying—raging, reciting poetry, and finally pacified by morphine—in a remote eighteenth-century windmill on the East Anglian fens. It was built to provide wind power ...- #12
"Counting the Cost" by Craig Borlase, Jill Duggar, and Derick Dillard is a memoir that delves into Jill Duggar's personal journey of breaking free from the restrictive and patriarchal environment of the IBLP (Institute in Basic Life Principles) and the Duggar family. Through candid storytelling, Jill shares her experiences growing up in a large, Christian fundamentalist family, shedding light on the struggles, trauma, and conflicts she faced while also highlighting moments of love, happy memories, and her strong faith. explores themes of family dynamics, religious beliefs, personal growth, and the complexities of navigating life outside the Duggar bubble.
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Linda Kay Klein's book delves into the purity movement and the culture of sexual shaming within the evangelical community in the U.S. The book is described as a mix of memoir and expose, where Klein shares her own experiences and interviews evangelical women who have been negatively impacted by the church's teachings on purity. Through anecdotes and statistics, Klein explores the long-lasting effects of the purity culture, including victim blaming, submission of women to men, and the struggles faced by those who have left the evangelical faith.
I yanked my T-shirt up, exposed my twenty-year-old belly, and strained to lift my head from the bed so I could survey the damage. A nearly foot-long open wound, freshly stuffed with gauze, ran the len... - #14
Member of the Family is a gripping memoir by Dianne Lake, the youngest member of the Manson Family, detailing her time with Charles Manson and the cult. Through Dianne's raw and authentic storytelling, readers are taken on a journey of how she was drawn into the Family, the disturbing events that unfolded, and her eventual escape from that dark world. The book delves into Dianne's experiences with drugs, group sex, and life in the hippie culture, providing a chilling account of manipulation, abuse, and survival.
Born in 1953, I was my parents’ first child. My father, Clarence, was a sturdy man with a wide, crooked smile. He’d followed his father’s footsteps into the house painting trade to put the food on the... - #15
"The Polygamist's Daughter" by Anna LeBaron is a gripping memoir that delves into the life of Anna LeBaron, who grew up in a polygamist cult of the Mormon church. The book details her harrowing experiences, including abuse, murders, and brainwashing, while also highlighting themes of hope, redemption, and ultimate freedom. The writing style is described as compelling, heart-wrenching, and page-turning, making it hard to put down once started.
I stood in the driveway of our Dallas home, clinging to my mother as the sun rose higher in the sky, and begged her through my tears not to go. I couldn’t imagine life without my mother. So great was ... - #16
'Prophet's Prey' by Sam Brower is a well-researched and excellently written book that delves into the criminal practices of the FLDS cult, particularly focusing on the abuse and atrocities committed by its leader Warren Jeffs and his followers. The author, a private investigator, provides a unique outsider's perspective on the cult, shedding light on the extreme atrocities and illegal practices occurring within the organization. Brower's writing style is factual and informative, reflecting his investigative background, and he leaves no stone unturned in detailing the abuses and crimes committed under the guise of religious freedom.
The book is a gripping and addictive read that exposes the horrors of the FLDS cult, particularly the abuse inflicted on women, children, and young boys. Brower's dedication to investigating and combating the abuse within the cult is commendable, and his detailed accounts of the investigations and the pursuit of justice against the abusers make for a compelling narrative. Through his writing, Brower not only highlights the dark realities of the FLDS but also emphasizes the importance of standing up against mass abuse in the name of faith, making a strong case for the need to address cults and ensure the safety of their members.
The prisoner’s hands were cuffed to a belly chain that was cinched tight around his scrawny waist and secured by a padlock. The shackles on his ankles hobbled his stride to a shuffle as two large men,... - #17
'My Life in Orange' by Tim Guest is a profound exploration of a child's experience growing up in various communes across the world, particularly focusing on the quest for enlightenment rather than traditional parenthood. The book delves into the harrowing and often lonely life of a young boy, navigating through the complex dynamics of communal living and the influence of figures like Bhagwan Rajneesh. Guest's writing style offers a unique perspective on the blurred lines between freedom and abandonment, providing insights into a childhood marked by both joy and turmoil.
I have photographs of my mother leading a commune parade down Fleet Street. I have photos of me curled up on a commune beanbag reading a commune library book. I have photos of the commune kids running... 'Troublemaker: Surviving Hollywood and Scientology' by Leah Remini is a memoir that delves into the author's life and her eventual departure from Scientology. Through Remini's candid and witty storytelling, readers are taken on a journey of her experiences within the controversial organization, shedding light on the inner workings of Scientology and the challenges she faced in breaking free from its grasp. The book offers a unique insider's perspective on Scientology, combining personal anecdotes with insightful commentary on the cult-like nature of the religion and its impact on her life in Hollywood.
Remini's writing style is praised for its humor, honesty, and engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. Her bravery in sharing her story, exposing the dark side of Scientology, and recounting her struggles with resilience and determination resonate with readers, making 'Troublemaker' an eye-opening and compelling read that offers a glimpse into the world of Hollywood and the controversial practices of Scientology.
AS FAR BACK AS I can remember, I was always performing and trying to make people laugh. I grew up on I Love Lucy, Welcome Back, Kotter, Happy Days, Gilligan’s Island, Three’s Company, Sanford and Son,...- #19
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... 'Unfollow: A Journey from Hatred to Hope' by Megan Phelps-Roper is a memoir that delves into the author's upbringing in the Westboro Baptist Church, known for its extreme beliefs and controversial picketing activities. The book follows Megan's transformation from a devoted church member to questioning her beliefs and eventually breaking away from the church. Through her personal experiences and struggles, Megan portrays the complexities of family ties, indoctrination, and the journey towards self-discovery and redemption. The writing style captures the emotional turmoil, the internal conflicts, and the eventual liberation of a woman who dares to challenge the beliefs she was raised with.
If a mother thinks something is important enough to take a public position about, shouldn’t she teach her children that value? Where else should children be at the time of public debate? At the local ...