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Zealot: A book about cults
'a smart, daring and refreshing book.' - Weekend Australian 'deliciously sinister' - Herald SunWhy would anyone join a cult? Maybe they're unhappy with their current religion, or they want to change the world, or they're disappointed with their lives and want to find something bigger or holier that makes sense of this confusing, chaotic and dangerous world. Or maybe they just want to give themselves the best possible chance of having sex with aliens.Whatever the reason, once people are in, it's usually very difficult for them to leave. Cults have ways of making their followers do loopy, dangerous stuff to prove their loyalty, and in return they get a chance to feel secure within the cult's embrace, with an added bonus of being utterly terrified of the outside world. From the tragic JONESTOWN Kool-Aid drinkers to the Australian cult THE FAMILY to the fiery Waco climax of THE BRANCH DAVIDIANS, this book is a wide-sweeping look at cults around the world, from the host of the popular podcast ZEALOT.'a piss-taker of rare boldness.' - Weekend Australian
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2019
34 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 17, 2019
I rarely speak ill of a book. Each to their own. But this book was painful.
The ‘humour’ is rabbity writing full of split infinitives and digressions. Honestly just get to the point.
If the author spent more time on clearly identifying the cults she was meant to be writing about and less time at poorly executed jokes the book would have felt less of an overwhelmingly frustrating drag.
I want my 5 hrs back. Shame on me for finishing it. What a waste of time.
The ‘humour’ is rabbity writing full of split infinitives and digressions. Honestly just get to the point.
If the author spent more time on clearly identifying the cults she was meant to be writing about and less time at poorly executed jokes the book would have felt less of an overwhelmingly frustrating drag.
I want my 5 hrs back. Shame on me for finishing it. What a waste of time.
January 11, 2021
It so bums me out when the Goodreads review that appears first for a book, so with the most likes, is a totally negative one. Is it just me or does it seem like that happens A LOT? I mean I'm guilty of writing some seethingly negative reviews, but still. What a frigging shame that it's the case for this book because this book is a GEM.
I do think it helps if Jo Thornely has already won you over with her fantastic podcast Zealot, because if you're already a fan of that, acquire this book immediately. It will be the hilarious balm you need in your life, trust me. Also good to know that you shouldn't expect in-depth histories or analyses of each of the cults/leaders covered here. Thornely provides a basic narrative, and her strength -- and the book's uniqueness -- is in her commentary that cuts to the heart of how messed up their actions were and how generally crappy they were, both as humans and at their work(?) with a lot of humor for levity. Those lacking a dark sense of humor, don't even bother.
I've been irritated with other podcasters that write books with nothing new to say that required a book, or who just regurgitate some potted histories or their life theories at you, but this was the first I read that felt worthwhile. Thornely is as bitingly funny as she is critical, and smartly points out that when dealing with these narcissistic control monsters, the best thing we can do is show how inept they actually were at so much. This does that, it was informative and sensitive even as she skewers all the ridiculousness involved. Try a few episodes of Zealot first (it took me a couple to get into it) and if you love it, you'll love this.
I do think it helps if Jo Thornely has already won you over with her fantastic podcast Zealot, because if you're already a fan of that, acquire this book immediately. It will be the hilarious balm you need in your life, trust me. Also good to know that you shouldn't expect in-depth histories or analyses of each of the cults/leaders covered here. Thornely provides a basic narrative, and her strength -- and the book's uniqueness -- is in her commentary that cuts to the heart of how messed up their actions were and how generally crappy they were, both as humans and at their work(?) with a lot of humor for levity. Those lacking a dark sense of humor, don't even bother.
I've been irritated with other podcasters that write books with nothing new to say that required a book, or who just regurgitate some potted histories or their life theories at you, but this was the first I read that felt worthwhile. Thornely is as bitingly funny as she is critical, and smartly points out that when dealing with these narcissistic control monsters, the best thing we can do is show how inept they actually were at so much. This does that, it was informative and sensitive even as she skewers all the ridiculousness involved. Try a few episodes of Zealot first (it took me a couple to get into it) and if you love it, you'll love this.
October 1, 2019
Cults and dark humor? Um, yes, please. 👏🏻 Jo Thornely is a delight! She provides a glimpse into several of the world’s most infamous cults - something I’m mildly obsessed with. This book will either satisfy your curiosity, or pique it further, leaving you craving more in-depth books on each disturbing group. Thornely is a great story teller and a gallows humor master. I wish it had been longer. Loved the audio!
September 1, 2019
Cults, in one form or another, have been with us since the year dot. Belief in and dedication to a cult appears to be one of humanity’s great pastimes, and they can and do exist in many forms. Some are quite benign, but there are others which result in terminal disasters. It is usually the latter which create a fascination for the rest of us: we want to know what happens in them and how they can become so painfully destructive. One thing we can be sure of: they all start off as being very positive and attractive to a wide range of people.
These people are not dumb or stupid; in fact they can be quite intelligent and well-meaning, and dedicated to ameliorating the human condition, not only on a personal level, but for the betterment of humanity in general. By willingly coming together into a kind of community, they sincerely believe that they are doing good for all, and they openly embrace limitations on personal freedoms, material comforts and individuality to work together for the common good.
Unfortunately, what starts off as a “save the world” movement that is easy to enter and establish, slowly but inevitably becomes an organisation from which it becomes increasingly harder and almost impossible to leave. These communities begin to encase themselves in an ever-tightening paranoia to establish a net of self-justifying restrictions which even the harshest personal treatment serves merely to reinforce their entrapment. Lives and relationships are shattered if not destroyed as a result.
Outsiders are horrified when they learn of these atrocities. One could think that such revelations would surely result in a decline in the deceptive initial attractiveness of such movements, but that does not appear to have been the case. This book represents an insight into author Jo Thornley’s fascination with this matter, and deals briefly with ten cults: Jim Jones and the People’s Temple; The Family; the Children of God; Aum Shinrikyo; Colonia Dignidad; Heaven’s Gate; Branch Davidians; Raelians; and the Rajneeshees. All flourished in the 20th-c.
Thornley’s approach is lighter and more irreverent than the usual responses (shock and horror) one might expect in dealing with this subject. Her method is to take a step back from any horrors and engage in a curiosity which is mildly amusing and suffused with a typical cheeky Aussie irony and sarcasm; while not diminishing the terrible consequences involved, this helps create a more detached inquisitiveness on the part of readers which might be a better way of dealing with these cults than simply condemnation and repulsion.
I will conclude with Thornley’s dedication at the front of the book:
“For all of the Messiahs past, present and future, in the hope that you find a better hobby.”
Amen to that!
These people are not dumb or stupid; in fact they can be quite intelligent and well-meaning, and dedicated to ameliorating the human condition, not only on a personal level, but for the betterment of humanity in general. By willingly coming together into a kind of community, they sincerely believe that they are doing good for all, and they openly embrace limitations on personal freedoms, material comforts and individuality to work together for the common good.
Unfortunately, what starts off as a “save the world” movement that is easy to enter and establish, slowly but inevitably becomes an organisation from which it becomes increasingly harder and almost impossible to leave. These communities begin to encase themselves in an ever-tightening paranoia to establish a net of self-justifying restrictions which even the harshest personal treatment serves merely to reinforce their entrapment. Lives and relationships are shattered if not destroyed as a result.
Outsiders are horrified when they learn of these atrocities. One could think that such revelations would surely result in a decline in the deceptive initial attractiveness of such movements, but that does not appear to have been the case. This book represents an insight into author Jo Thornley’s fascination with this matter, and deals briefly with ten cults: Jim Jones and the People’s Temple; The Family; the Children of God; Aum Shinrikyo; Colonia Dignidad; Heaven’s Gate; Branch Davidians; Raelians; and the Rajneeshees. All flourished in the 20th-c.
Thornley’s approach is lighter and more irreverent than the usual responses (shock and horror) one might expect in dealing with this subject. Her method is to take a step back from any horrors and engage in a curiosity which is mildly amusing and suffused with a typical cheeky Aussie irony and sarcasm; while not diminishing the terrible consequences involved, this helps create a more detached inquisitiveness on the part of readers which might be a better way of dealing with these cults than simply condemnation and repulsion.
I will conclude with Thornley’s dedication at the front of the book:
“For all of the Messiahs past, present and future, in the hope that you find a better hobby.”
Amen to that!
April 16, 2019
This book delves into a topic that fascinates many people from all walks of life. How is it, we wonder, that seemingly normal people like you and me, could allow themselves to be led, so willingly, to their destruction? Unfortunately, for me, the author's writing style is so full of sarcasm and poorly attempted wit that I could only manage a few pages at a time while reading. If it wasn't for the fascinating subject I would have disposed of the book well before the end. What's ultimately disappointing about this is that the subject matter is deserving of people's time and effort to explore.
While reading this book I found it very difficult to determine whether the author's comments where retelling true events, or just a snarky attempt at humour that was ultimately misinforming. I've come away from the book with the need to do far more research on the topic of cults so that I can discover, for myself, the truth of what went on within these hidden enclaves.
The big takeaway from "Zealot" is not the evils of cults, or the ease with which people can be manipulated, but it's the author's complete disdain for any form of religion or spirituality, and, hence, for anyone who has an interest in pursuing this subject in their life. The subject matter of cults is interesting, and this book will probably hold your interest, however there are many more informative and we'll written books available.
While reading this book I found it very difficult to determine whether the author's comments where retelling true events, or just a snarky attempt at humour that was ultimately misinforming. I've come away from the book with the need to do far more research on the topic of cults so that I can discover, for myself, the truth of what went on within these hidden enclaves.
The big takeaway from "Zealot" is not the evils of cults, or the ease with which people can be manipulated, but it's the author's complete disdain for any form of religion or spirituality, and, hence, for anyone who has an interest in pursuing this subject in their life. The subject matter of cults is interesting, and this book will probably hold your interest, however there are many more informative and we'll written books available.
May 14, 2019
5 stars! (I read the physical copy while listening along to Jo Thornely narrating the audiobook - which I think added to the experience. For some reason, goodreads only has the kindle version?)
I absolutely loved this - I simply ate it up.
This is the reason I read non-fiction - to learn something about things I don't know and to enjoy the experience along the way. Jo Thornely wrote this in a very accessible but not lacking in the nitty-gritty details type of way. I felt she balanced every story. I also found this incredibly hilarious. We have very similar senses of humour and that came through the audiobook and I found myself laughing out loud so many times.
I absolutely loved this - I simply ate it up.
This is the reason I read non-fiction - to learn something about things I don't know and to enjoy the experience along the way. Jo Thornely wrote this in a very accessible but not lacking in the nitty-gritty details type of way. I felt she balanced every story. I also found this incredibly hilarious. We have very similar senses of humour and that came through the audiobook and I found myself laughing out loud so many times.
July 23, 2020
Meh.
More of a Who's Who of narcissistic cult leaders. I was hoping for more on the hows and whys of how these leaders gain momentum.
Also the author's snarkiness is annoying. A little bit of that goes a long way.
More of a Who's Who of narcissistic cult leaders. I was hoping for more on the hows and whys of how these leaders gain momentum.
Also the author's snarkiness is annoying. A little bit of that goes a long way.
October 13, 2020
Cults are always fascinating to learn about, however, Thornely's intention in writing this book was not in educating the reader on these cults and how they operated, but rather to entertain the reader with her dry sarcasm and blatant disregard for just how despicable these cult leaders were. These were killers, brainwashers, and rappists. The families of their victims deserve better than to have these men joked about.
The other major issue I have with Thornely's writing is she has a clear bias towards ANY faith-based religion. These cults who used 'Christian ideas' in the very bottom basement of their early ideology are not a damn thing like genuine Christianity. Or Mormonism, or Judaism, or Islam.
Overall, good information, just... buried too deeply in the author's prejudice.
The other major issue I have with Thornely's writing is she has a clear bias towards ANY faith-based religion. These cults who used 'Christian ideas' in the very bottom basement of their early ideology are not a damn thing like genuine Christianity. Or Mormonism, or Judaism, or Islam.
Overall, good information, just... buried too deeply in the author's prejudice.
June 23, 2019
A great overview on some of the most popular and well-known cults in the area. Mixed with some serious and some humorous jokes but sometimes the jokes overwrote the cults. What I would have greatly appreciated would be some other books and shows that if anyone wanted to know more about certain cults (Thornely does this for certain cults).
October 4, 2022
I couldn’t finish this book due to how poorly it was written. A good editor and some coaching would really help here. I’m sure it would’ve been a good generalist book on the cult subject matter if it had been written better.
March 26, 2019
Thanks to Jo Thornely, I’m now obsessed with cults.
I need her voice, flowing with humour, wit, and depth, to explain more horrible things to me. Zealot taught me absolutely mind blowing things about humanity and how dark it can get, and the bits of light where it often starts.
Can’t wait to see what she comes out with next.
I need her voice, flowing with humour, wit, and depth, to explain more horrible things to me. Zealot taught me absolutely mind blowing things about humanity and how dark it can get, and the bits of light where it often starts.
Can’t wait to see what she comes out with next.
September 9, 2019
Flippantly fun ... yet a serious topic that needs better treatment. Sadly the book oversimplifies the question of why people do things a cult leader tells them too. Thornely says "the answer is both simple and complex" but then gives the simplified stereotypical answer "because God is telling them too." Too be fair I quote from a chapter on The Family which involved children. However, we need to see book that reveals the complexity of mans seeking meaning and why people are drawn to groups that potentially dangerous.
Then there is a question of when is something labelled a cult because it is not mainstream. A topic ignored.
In fairness to the author also reveals government provocation and failings of the Branch Dravidian siege.
But a three-page final chapter "The End Bit or How to Tell if Your In A Cult" is more jocular than useful. I fear this book only enhances stereotypes. Society needs to understand itself. Stereotypes, like scapegoats, are easily used to not look at our own social and personal weaknesses which often underlie why vulnerable people seek support from cults in the first place.
Then there is a question of when is something labelled a cult because it is not mainstream. A topic ignored.
In fairness to the author also reveals government provocation and failings of the Branch Dravidian siege.
But a three-page final chapter "The End Bit or How to Tell if Your In A Cult" is more jocular than useful. I fear this book only enhances stereotypes. Society needs to understand itself. Stereotypes, like scapegoats, are easily used to not look at our own social and personal weaknesses which often underlie why vulnerable people seek support from cults in the first place.
September 13, 2020
A book about cults really piqued my interest, however this wasn't the book I was hoping for. It started strong, but quickly the writing style about each cult became repetitive and predictable (perhaps that speaks more to the nature of cults rather than the author). The seriousness of the topic laced with humour throughout, which kept me reading probably longer than i would have, however at times it felt misplaced and made elements of the narrative hard to follow.
I think this book makes for a good introduction to the topic, but don't expect anything deeper. I think the writing style would better suit listening along as an audiobook.
I think this book makes for a good introduction to the topic, but don't expect anything deeper. I think the writing style would better suit listening along as an audiobook.
January 23, 2020
A nice, neat and gently humourous wander through various cults. If you listen to the zealot podcast, there's not much new here, but the stories are laid out much more clearly and it's still definitely worth a read. I listened to this on Audiobook and I do recommend it.
April 28, 2025
This was awesome and very Australian. I learned a lot of interesting new stuff as well as more in depth information about cults I'd never heard of. And the last one who I had heard of and didn't realise was a cult leader!
April 27, 2023
Fascinating and funny. Oddly enough.
August 10, 2021
It gets 2 stars for the subject matter being interesting, loses the rest for reading like Cosmo does Cults and the inclusion of a compound swear (a real cockknuckle of a language choice).
November 8, 2025
DNF - needs a strong editor
April 2, 2019
You all are probably aware that I have a deep, deep fascination with cults and doomsday groups. As someone who was raised with so clear cut belief system/community of faith, the thought of having enough blind faith to be led to danger and doom has always struck a chord with me. So when I discovered the podcast ZEALOT, hosted by Jo Thornely, I was pretty sucked in as she breaks down and talks about various cults and doomsday groups around the world. So, too, was I enticed when I found out that she wrote a book, and even though the paperback isn't available in the U.S. yet (it's Australian), it is available on Audible. And who had some Audible credits saved up? ME!
Jo Thornley gives a broad but still fairly detailed account of a number of cult groups that have practiced throughout the years around the world. From the just plain out there (The Raelians) to the abusive (Children of God) to the outright murderous (Aum Shinrikyo), Thornley takes us into a world of true belief, and how far people will go in the name of it.
I really enjoyed this book, as it was both a great summary of a number of cults while also giving me a lot of new information I wasn't aware of, even with the cults I'm already familiar with. Thornley does a great job of balancing snarky sarcasm and disturbing themes, and while that may not be everyone's cup of tea I really liked the dark humor interspersed with the really upsetting takes on what happened within these groups. She starts off with one of the worst of the worst, Jonestown, and I thought it was a good idea to start with one of the most devastating if only because it prepared you for what was to come with the others (in some ways; that isn't to say that the horrors of the other cults weren't addressed properly or downplayed. And I still can't do Waco; the fallout from that and the conspiracy theories surrounding it have led to so much violence and bloodshed all for an egomaniacal sociopathic rapist who had a death wish). Thornley is a bit more restrained than she is on her podcast, but that works for an audiobook. And even though I knew a fair amount about some of the cults, I learned a lot about the ones I wasn't as familiar with. And I STILL enjoyed the ones that I was familiar with.
Bottom line, if you are interested in cults and like the podcast ZEALOT, this could be a fun read for you!
Jo Thornley gives a broad but still fairly detailed account of a number of cult groups that have practiced throughout the years around the world. From the just plain out there (The Raelians) to the abusive (Children of God) to the outright murderous (Aum Shinrikyo), Thornley takes us into a world of true belief, and how far people will go in the name of it.
I really enjoyed this book, as it was both a great summary of a number of cults while also giving me a lot of new information I wasn't aware of, even with the cults I'm already familiar with. Thornley does a great job of balancing snarky sarcasm and disturbing themes, and while that may not be everyone's cup of tea I really liked the dark humor interspersed with the really upsetting takes on what happened within these groups. She starts off with one of the worst of the worst, Jonestown, and I thought it was a good idea to start with one of the most devastating if only because it prepared you for what was to come with the others (in some ways; that isn't to say that the horrors of the other cults weren't addressed properly or downplayed. And I still can't do Waco; the fallout from that and the conspiracy theories surrounding it have led to so much violence and bloodshed all for an egomaniacal sociopathic rapist who had a death wish). Thornley is a bit more restrained than she is on her podcast, but that works for an audiobook. And even though I knew a fair amount about some of the cults, I learned a lot about the ones I wasn't as familiar with. And I STILL enjoyed the ones that I was familiar with.
Bottom line, if you are interested in cults and like the podcast ZEALOT, this could be a fun read for you!
January 2, 2024
"Zealot: A Book About Cults" by Jo Thornely takes readers on a journey through the intriguing and often disturbing world of cults. Thornely's approach to the subject is characterized by a conversational and humorous tone, making the book accessible to a wide audience. While it provides an entertaining overview of various cults, the irreverent style might not resonate equally with all readers.
One of the book's strengths lies in Thornely's ability to distill complex historical events and psychological dynamics into digestible narratives. Each chapter focuses on a different cult, offering a mix of historical context, key figures, and the author's own commentary. This format keeps the pace engaging and allows readers to explore a variety of cults from different time periods and cultural contexts.
The author's humorous and irreverent style adds a lighthearted touch to a subject that is inherently dark and unsettling. Thornely doesn't shy away from injecting wit and sarcasm into her commentary, creating a narrative that feels more like a casual conversation than a deep dive into the intricacies of cult behavior.
However, the casual tone and humor may not be to everyone's taste, especially for readers seeking a more serious and analytical examination of cults. Some may find that the irreverent approach dilutes the gravity of the subject matter, potentially diminishing the impact of the stories being told.
The book's organization, while generally coherent, occasionally feels a bit disjointed as it moves between different cults and time periods. The transitions between chapters could be smoother, and a more structured thematic exploration might have added depth to the overall narrative.
In conclusion, "Zealot" offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to the world of cults, thanks to Jo Thornely's engaging writing style. While the irreverent approach may not resonate with everyone, those seeking a lighthearted exploration of this dark subject will likely find the book both informative and amusing. It strikes a balance between providing insight into cult behavior and delivering a casual, humorous commentary on the peculiarities of these often bizarre movements.
One of the book's strengths lies in Thornely's ability to distill complex historical events and psychological dynamics into digestible narratives. Each chapter focuses on a different cult, offering a mix of historical context, key figures, and the author's own commentary. This format keeps the pace engaging and allows readers to explore a variety of cults from different time periods and cultural contexts.
The author's humorous and irreverent style adds a lighthearted touch to a subject that is inherently dark and unsettling. Thornely doesn't shy away from injecting wit and sarcasm into her commentary, creating a narrative that feels more like a casual conversation than a deep dive into the intricacies of cult behavior.
However, the casual tone and humor may not be to everyone's taste, especially for readers seeking a more serious and analytical examination of cults. Some may find that the irreverent approach dilutes the gravity of the subject matter, potentially diminishing the impact of the stories being told.
The book's organization, while generally coherent, occasionally feels a bit disjointed as it moves between different cults and time periods. The transitions between chapters could be smoother, and a more structured thematic exploration might have added depth to the overall narrative.
In conclusion, "Zealot" offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to the world of cults, thanks to Jo Thornely's engaging writing style. While the irreverent approach may not resonate with everyone, those seeking a lighthearted exploration of this dark subject will likely find the book both informative and amusing. It strikes a balance between providing insight into cult behavior and delivering a casual, humorous commentary on the peculiarities of these often bizarre movements.
March 11, 2021
It is undoubtedly strange to categorize a book that includes details about cults that participated in child abuse, attempted (or completed) murder, torture, and sexual assault as a light and breezy read. It probably reflects poorly on me. But I found this a quick, distracting, and enjoyable read nonetheless. It helps that I enjoy the authors podcast of the same name. It helps a lot that it is written in the same tongue in cheek brash Aussie voice that prevails there. It makes the terrible bits less terrible the way she talks about them.
Not sure what to say beyond that -- if you are interested in cults and not put off by swearing and wisecracks, you will like the book. Except for the stuff about crimes committed by the cults, but no one expects you to like that. I had naively expected a more straightforward true crime or nonfiction approach to things, but I would not have enjoyed the book as much if I had gotten it.
Not sure what to say beyond that -- if you are interested in cults and not put off by swearing and wisecracks, you will like the book. Except for the stuff about crimes committed by the cults, but no one expects you to like that. I had naively expected a more straightforward true crime or nonfiction approach to things, but I would not have enjoyed the book as much if I had gotten it.
August 10, 2021
A lighter read (if such a thing exists) that covers several of the biggest cults in modern times. The length of this book means you get more breezy overviews of the cults and their inevitable terrible terrible ways. There are jokes (the author is Australian so jokes and verbiage will be different than American readers are used to). A good start point to read about cults if you have a darker sense of humor. If you are cult knowledgeable you’ll likely know a lot of this information already. I personally enjoyed this book but it’s likely not for everyone. Oh and I’m sure the author would like me to remind you “don’t join a cult.”
October 11, 2021
I enjoyed the dark humour, and it definite softened what is fairly disturbing subject matter for the most part. However, while Thornely's overview of each cult's philosophies was strong, her explanation of their respective downfalls was incoherent and muddled. The book would have been much better with a better explanation of recruitment and retention techniques, ands the psychology of the stereotypical cult victim.
Cults will always be fascinating to me, but I don't know who this book would best suit: it's too muddled to be an introduction to the topic, but also too basic for someone who is familiar with the organisations described within.
Cults will always be fascinating to me, but I don't know who this book would best suit: it's too muddled to be an introduction to the topic, but also too basic for someone who is familiar with the organisations described within.
May 7, 2025
This is the best book about cults that I have ever encountered. It gives the details that we all want to know about them with the WTF we feel about cults. I want Jo Thornely to write books (and read them) about EVERY subject.
My husband walked in when I was listening to the Branch Davidians chapter. I paused it, then he and I had a conversation about cult leaders and the whole debacle that happened in Waco. I commented that the whole thing was a big d*** measuring contest with no winners. A few minutes later, that's exactly what Jo Thornely said. Maybe it was penis measuring, but what we all think about it.
Maybe, don't join a cult. Maybe, don't become a cult leader.
My husband walked in when I was listening to the Branch Davidians chapter. I paused it, then he and I had a conversation about cult leaders and the whole debacle that happened in Waco. I commented that the whole thing was a big d*** measuring contest with no winners. A few minutes later, that's exactly what Jo Thornely said. Maybe it was penis measuring, but what we all think about it.
Maybe, don't join a cult. Maybe, don't become a cult leader.
April 28, 2019
Jo Thornley has done an excellent job of bringing to light some of the more outrageous cults people have been a part of in a very conversational, but humorous tone. I had never heard of the Rajneeshis, Raelians or Colonia Dignidad before this book, but was familiar with the Moonies, The Family, the terrible Children of God, David Koresh and Heaven's Gate. Thanks to the author, I got to learn about "tough titties" Ma Anand Sheela, the Rolls Royce Guru and how they almost poisoned the entire State of Oregon in the early 1980s. My goodness. A recommended bit of reading overall though!
September 8, 2020
I've never felt compelled to write a book review before - but this really was terrible. It's such a shame as I find the subject matter incredibly interesting - how do these cults form, how do they keep people locked in and shape perceptions of reality... but this reads as just a diatribe of terrible jokes, sarky comments and judgemental attitudes that completely ruin it. They aren't well written or witty... I got 40 pages in and just couldn't keep going. I'd love someone to write a book about these cults that focusses on the content, not their own opinions. Any recommendations??
March 1, 2021
I enjoyed the book for the irreverent quips on a topic I already knew probably too much about. For a taste of the book if you're indecisive: "While Pinochet" had torture centers all around the country, "colonia dignidad was the only one where you could also get a top notch pretzel."
The audiobook is read by the author, who is fun, jaunty, and clearly invested in her subject. It also reminded me of the fact that no one, absolutely no one, manages to say Allende correctly, which is just an extra layer of indignity on top of being murdered by a junta and framed as a suicide.
The audiobook is read by the author, who is fun, jaunty, and clearly invested in her subject. It also reminded me of the fact that no one, absolutely no one, manages to say Allende correctly, which is just an extra layer of indignity on top of being murdered by a junta and framed as a suicide.
January 10, 2022
I put this book down midway through the first chapter. I was after a book with factual information on cults and some commentary on ideas like mass psychosis, what I got instead, read like one of those awful panel morning shows chatting about it. I don't require formal writing styles to enjoy reading about facts, but this was literally conversational, in a most irritating way. The writing "style" reminds me of zoe foster, who I also find unreadable. Old mate, bing bang bosh, it's a hard pass for me.
November 5, 2025
If you’re interested in true crime, and particularly cults, but don’t know where to begin- this book is for you!
Jo Thornely tells the stories of various different cults and offsets the horrors (except with the Children of God cult which nothing can dampen the horror of) with dry Aussie humour.
Each chapter focuses on a different cult, with just enough information that you know more than the basics but not so much that you feel like you’re drowning in information.
One thing to take away from this is how remarkably easy, it seems, to unknowingly join a cult.
Jo Thornely tells the stories of various different cults and offsets the horrors (except with the Children of God cult which nothing can dampen the horror of) with dry Aussie humour.
Each chapter focuses on a different cult, with just enough information that you know more than the basics but not so much that you feel like you’re drowning in information.
One thing to take away from this is how remarkably easy, it seems, to unknowingly join a cult.
April 26, 2019
A fascinating, almost cheeky (but thorough) look at some of the more famous cults in recent history. It’s written very colloquially — it reads like a great chin-wag with a knowledgeable friend of a friend — and while it doesn’t gloss over the more horrifying aspects of cults, it doesn’t dive in and roll around in the gory bits, either (looking at you, true crime genre). I’d recommend this to anyone with a passing interest in the hows and whys of cults, which is... everyone, right?
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