The best 26 Cults books

Mr. Splitfoot by Samantha Hunt is a haunting and atmospheric novel that weaves together two timelines. It follows two young orphans, Ruth and Nat, who use their ability to communicate with the dead to con people. Years later, Ruth reappears as a mute and leads her pregnant niece on a mysterious journey. The novel explores themes of faith, loss, and the supernatural, leaving readers captivated until the very end.

Cults, Conspiracies, and Secret Societies by Arthur Goldwag delves into the fascinating world of underground organizations and their hidden agendas. From the Illuminati to the Freemasons, this book explores the history and influence of these secretive groups, uncovering the truth behind their mysterious activities. Goldwag offers a thought-provoking examination of the power dynamics and belief systems that drive these enigmatic organizations.

Leaving the Saints is a memoir by Martha Beck that delves into her experiences growing up in and eventually leaving the Mormon Church. Beck recounts her journey of self-discovery and the challenges she faced as she questioned her faith and the teachings of the Church. This thought-provoking book offers a unique insight into the inner workings of a religious community and the process of breaking free from its constraints.

Pilgrim's Wilderness by Tom Kizzia is a gripping true story that delves into the life of a man named Papa Pilgrim and his family, who sought to live off the grid in the Alaskan wilderness. As their isolated existence unravels, dark secrets and a battle for survival come to light, making this book a compelling exploration of human nature and the extremes people will go to in the pursuit of freedom.

fathermothergod is a memoir by Lucia Greenhouse that delves into her experiences growing up in the Christian Science faith. It explores the complexities of family dynamics, the power of belief, and the consequences of relying solely on prayer for healing. Greenhouse takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and ultimately questions the teachings she once unquestionably followed.

Gather the Daughters by Jennie Melamed is a thought-provoking novel that explores a dystopian society where women are oppressed and controlled. Set on an isolated island, the story follows a group of young girls who begin to question the rules and traditions that govern their lives. As they uncover dark secrets, they must decide whether to accept their fate or fight for their freedom.

Underground by Haruki Murakami is a gripping non-fiction book that delves into the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack. Through interviews with survivors, cult members, and others involved, Murakami uncovers the events leading up to the attack, the motivations behind it, and its aftermath. This thought-provoking book explores the complexities of human nature and the impact of this tragic event on Japanese society.

Unfollow is a memoir by Megan Phelps-Roper that delves into her experience growing up in the notorious Westboro Baptist Church. She shares her journey of questioning the beliefs she was raised with, ultimately leading to her decision to leave the church and break free from its toxic ideology. Through her compelling story, Phelps-Roper explores themes of extremism, family, and the power of empathy.

Broken Faith by Mitch Weiss is a gripping true crime book that delves into the dark world of a North Carolina church where power, control, and abuse reign supreme. Through meticulous research and interviews, Weiss uncovers the harrowing stories of former members and exposes the shocking truth behind the facade of faith.

Cartwheels in a Sari is a memoir by Jayanti Tamm that delves into her extraordinary upbringing in a spiritual commune led by the enigmatic guru, Sri Chinmoy. Tamm recounts her experiences growing up in this unconventional environment, her struggles for independence, and her eventual journey towards self-discovery and freedom.

In the Days of Rain is a memoir by Rebecca Stott that delves into her childhood growing up in a strict religious sect known as the Exclusive Brethren. Through a combination of personal recollections and family history, Stott explores the impact of her father's role as a leader within the sect and the eventual unraveling of their family. It is a poignant and thought-provoking account of resilience, freedom, and the power of storytelling.

Little Heaven by Nick Cutter is a chilling horror novel that delves into the darkness of human nature. Set in the 1980s, it tells the story of three mercenaries who are hired to find a boy in a remote New Mexico wilderness. What they encounter is a terrifying cult and a sinister force that threatens their very existence. With its atmospheric setting and intense suspense, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.

A Thousand Lives by Julia Scheeres delves into the tragic story of the Jonestown massacre. Through extensive research and interviews, Scheeres uncovers the lives of the people who followed cult leader Jim Jones to Guyana and ultimately met their untimely deaths. This gripping account sheds light on the power of manipulation and the devastating consequences it can have.

I'm Perfect, You're Doomed by Kyria Abrahams is a darkly humorous memoir that delves into the author's experiences growing up in a strict religious community. With wit and insight, Abrahams explores the impact of her upbringing on her sense of self-worth and her journey towards finding her own identity outside of the constraints of her faith.

Last Days by Adam Nevill is a gripping horror novel that delves into the world of a sinister cult and its dark secrets. When a filmmaker is hired to make a documentary about the cult’s final days, he uncovers a terrifying truth that puts his own life in danger. The book is filled with tension, mystery, and a sense of impending doom that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Combating Cult Mind Control is a thought-provoking book by Steven Hassan that delves into the world of destructive cults and the techniques they use to manipulate and control their members. Drawing from his own experiences as a former cult member and his expertise as a mental health professional, Hassan provides valuable insights and practical advice on how to recognize and break free from the influence of such groups. A must-read for anyone interested in understanding the power dynamics at play in cults and how to help those affected by them.

The Kingdom of the Cults by Walter Martin is a comprehensive examination of various religious sects and cults. Through thorough research and analysis, the book aims to educate readers about the beliefs and practices of these groups, while also providing a Christian perspective on how to engage with their followers.

Infiltration by Taylor Marshall explores the alleged infiltration of the Catholic Church by various groups and ideologies. Through historical analysis and investigative research, the book delves into the potential influence of Freemasonry, Modernism, and Communism on the Church, raising thought-provoking questions about its direction and integrity.

Runelore by Edred Thorsson delves into the ancient runic tradition, exploring its history, symbolism, and practical applications. Thorsson provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the runic alphabet and its connection to Norse mythology, as well as how to use runes for divination and magic. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the mystical world of the runes.

Gather the Daughters by Jennie Melamed is a thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of power, control, and rebellion. Set on an isolated island, the story follows a society where young girls are raised to believe that they have no other option but to accept their fate as childbearing women. However, a group of brave girls begins to question the rules and traditions, sparking a dangerous revolution. This gripping and unsettling book challenges societal norms and will leave readers pondering its implications long after the final page.

I Fired God is a powerful memoir by Jocelyn Zichterman that delves into her personal journey of escaping from and ultimately standing up against the oppressive and abusive practices within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church. With raw honesty, Zichterman exposes the manipulation, control, and trauma inflicted upon her and others in the name of religion, ultimately reclaiming her own freedom and faith.

The Book of Mormon is a religious text that details the account of ancient prophets and their teachings in the Americas. It is considered scripture by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is believed to be another testament of Jesus Christ. The book addresses themes of faith, repentance, and the importance of following God's commandments.

Unfollow is a memoir by Megan Phelps-Roper that delves into her journey of leaving the notorious Westboro Baptist Church. From her upbringing in the church to her eventual decision to break away, Phelps-Roper provides a compelling account of how she came to question the beliefs she was raised with and ultimately find her own path to freedom and redemption.

Hollywood Park is a gripping memoir by Mikel Jollett that takes readers on a journey through his tumultuous childhood in the 1980s and 90s. From growing up in the infamous Synanon cult to finding his way in the outside world, Jollett shares his story of resilience, family, and the pursuit of freedom. It's a powerful and deeply personal account that explores themes of identity, trauma, and the healing power of music.

Jesus Land is a memoir by Julia Scheeres that delves into her experiences growing up in a strict Christian household and her time at a Christian reform school in the Dominican Republic. The book explores themes of race, religion, and family, offering a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on the author's journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.

Tears of the Silenced by Misty Griffin is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the dark reality of abuse within the Amish community. Griffin shares her heartbreaking journey of enduring physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather and the oppressive Amish culture. Through her courageous storytelling, she brings attention to the need for change and justice for those who have been silenced.