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Section 132: A Survivor Psychological Thriller
Lillian grows up in an American fundamentalist Mormon sect which still practices polygamy. At thirteen she becomes the child-bride of a Canadian Bishop. His compound is located deep in the wilderness of British Columbia, totally isolated from the rest of the world.
When the land developer Richard Bergman buys the property next to the Bishop’s compound, he gets involuntarily drawn into the sect’s secret.
When the land developer Richard Bergman buys the property next to the Bishop’s compound, he gets involuntarily drawn into the sect’s secret.
458 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
1153 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
About the author
Helga Zeiner
33 books185 followersHelga Zeiner is a German-born Canadian author. She left her home town Augsburg at the age of eighteen to explore the world. For the following fourteen years, she lived and worked in Australia and Asia before she married and settled in Canada.
All her stories have been inspired by her years of extensive travels. The reader can only guess which parts of her dramatic thrillers are based on real-life experiences or might be the product of her imagination.
She now lives on Vancouver Island, unless she is traveling the world again. Aside from writing, Helga loves reading, (anything but preferably dark and twisty), dogs, (all breeds and mixes but preferably Chow Chows), wine (preferably the bubbly kind), cooking and eating (preferably with good friends and family), and last but not least, her hubby Mani (no preference specified there—she loves everything about him).
All her stories have been inspired by her years of extensive travels. The reader can only guess which parts of her dramatic thrillers are based on real-life experiences or might be the product of her imagination.
She now lives on Vancouver Island, unless she is traveling the world again. Aside from writing, Helga loves reading, (anything but preferably dark and twisty), dogs, (all breeds and mixes but preferably Chow Chows), wine (preferably the bubbly kind), cooking and eating (preferably with good friends and family), and last but not least, her hubby Mani (no preference specified there—she loves everything about him).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
August 1, 2012
There are two parallel storylines in the beginning. First is that of Richard & Daisy who are business partners who are looking at a particular plot for development. Richard believes that if he can pull this project off, then it will be his greatest success. The second storyline involves a fundamentalist sect who practices polygamy. A girl named Lillian is only 13 when her parents marry her to a ‘Bishop’ settled in Canada. With all her innocence intact, she expects a loving handsome and loving husband at the time of her marriage. What she doesn’t expect is to lose her identity at the moment of her marriage and harsh truth rocks her world at the same time she loses her innocence. Lillian feels caged from the very first day in this foreign land which only grows with time.
The story comes to a point where the two worlds collide as Richard approaches his neighbor with the intention of buying off some land from him. The Richard is left astounded as he discovers more about his new neighbours’ lifestyle. Lillian in the meantime is desperate to get away from this family. Will Richard’s entry into the folds bring hope to Lillian? Will Richard be able to make a difference?
First and foremost, Ms.Zeiner’s writing style is absolutely captivating. She will have you right from the word go and will certainly take you on for a ride. Her attention to details is amazing as is her mix of facts and fiction. Her characterization is flawless – whether be the development or their contribution to the story. There’s not a single character whose presence in the book is not justified and there isn’t a single character you would wish to read less off. As you read, you are slowly but completely transported into this world of Polygamous lifestyle and mark my words you, as a reader will not be able to stop yourself from thinking. Whether be it thinking about this sect & lifestyle or about the injustice that Lillian feels or the dark feelings that her desperate emotions evoke in you – you will not be able to help from thinking.
This is a total powerhouse of a novel and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it to all Fiction & Non-Fiction lovers.
The story comes to a point where the two worlds collide as Richard approaches his neighbor with the intention of buying off some land from him. The Richard is left astounded as he discovers more about his new neighbours’ lifestyle. Lillian in the meantime is desperate to get away from this family. Will Richard’s entry into the folds bring hope to Lillian? Will Richard be able to make a difference?
First and foremost, Ms.Zeiner’s writing style is absolutely captivating. She will have you right from the word go and will certainly take you on for a ride. Her attention to details is amazing as is her mix of facts and fiction. Her characterization is flawless – whether be the development or their contribution to the story. There’s not a single character whose presence in the book is not justified and there isn’t a single character you would wish to read less off. As you read, you are slowly but completely transported into this world of Polygamous lifestyle and mark my words you, as a reader will not be able to stop yourself from thinking. Whether be it thinking about this sect & lifestyle or about the injustice that Lillian feels or the dark feelings that her desperate emotions evoke in you – you will not be able to help from thinking.
This is a total powerhouse of a novel and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it to all Fiction & Non-Fiction lovers.
July 4, 2024
Utterly addictive.
This book caught my attention because of my interest in polygamy. Having watched documentaries on this subject, I was very keen to read the book.
It is a disturbing and intense read but relentlessly compelling. It is so well-written, with so much going on in it and how the stories of the different characters intertwine as the book progresses. It's not all unpleasant, though there are some good, unexpected twists. I was gripped from the first word to the last.
This book caught my attention because of my interest in polygamy. Having watched documentaries on this subject, I was very keen to read the book.
It is a disturbing and intense read but relentlessly compelling. It is so well-written, with so much going on in it and how the stories of the different characters intertwine as the book progresses. It's not all unpleasant, though there are some good, unexpected twists. I was gripped from the first word to the last.
May 30, 2012
Section 132 by Helga Zeiner
Published by POW WOW Books
Publication Date: July 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 0986879800
ISBN-13: 978-0986879807
Pages: 458
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 5
Synopsis:
Lillian is only 13 when her parents marry her to a middle-aged Bishop of a fundamentalist sect who practices polygamy. She is forced to live with her new husband’s many wives and children on his compound tucked away in the Canadian wilderness.
The hardships of poverty and isolation have crushed the will of just about everybody in his flock. They suffer in silent submissiveness, trying to please their despotic leader. He justifies the humiliating treatment of his dependents by citing ‘Section 132 of the Doctrine & Covenants’ of his fundamentalist religion.
Until, one day, Lillian had enough. But it is dangerous to try and escape the Bishop’s iron rule. He practices blood-atonement, which is quietly sanctioned by the ‘Gatekeepers’, an American secret society within the Fundamentalist Mormon Church.
Lillian must find out-side help if she ever wants to leave the Bishop’s compound – but how can she do this if she is locked up without any means of communication?
Lillian doesn’t know how life outside a compound functions. She only knows that she can not live like this much longer. Many questions plaque her troubled mind.
Why do her sister-wives put up with this hardship, knowing only a bleak future lies ahead of them? Where do the child-brides come from, the Bishop keeps adding to his family? Where do some of his daughters disappear to, once they come of age? Lillian’s defiance grows with every injustice she witnesses – until she can’t hide her rebellion any longer.
Her desperate struggle to escape draws the reader into a very dark, very dangerous place. But not all is hopeless. When land developer Richard Bergman buys the neighboring property, Lillian’s luck seems to be changing …
My Thoughts and Opinion: Since I believe in honest reviews, I feel that I need to start this critique with some caveats as to how I came to read this book, what happened in the interim and how my personality/thought process played a role in the review.
First, author and friend, Melissa Foster (Megan's Way, Chasing Amanda, Come Back To Me and Traces of Kara) contacted me, which she has done on several occasions, to recommend and ask if I would read, review and host an author showcase for one of her peers. I, in return, emailed Ms. Zeiner and offered a spotlight on my blog but was honest and stated that I didn't know exactly when I would be able to read and review her book due to back log. She accepted and we agreed upon a date, May 29th that she would be featured. With emails back and forth to gather information for the spotlight, Helga asked about Partners In Crime Tours since her book is categorized as suspense. She decide to book a tour through Partners In Crime Tours, and at that time, I still hadn't started reading her book. I am sure that some people will think that I give books high ratings because they decide to tour with our company (my partner being Molly from Reviews By Molly). That is not the case. I believe in honesty and integrity and will judge and write a review accordingly, no matter what.
Second, how my personality had a bearing on this book. I have always had a hunger for knowledge to learn about different cultures, religions, and life styles other than what I know and practice. Not to judge, condemn or condone but to learn and understand. Even though this was a fictional story, the details of a different religion and culture, was an eye opening education for me. With all that being said, now to my review.
My first thought when I started reading this book was "oh no...480 pages". I admit, I am one of those readers, who prefer books that are approximately 300 pages. It is definitely a mind over matter issue thinking it will take me many days and/or weeks to read. However, once I finished reading the Prologue, I was hooked. Ms. Zeiner's writing style was impeccable. It flowed smoothly even with the vast amount of minute details. Even with the minuscule depictions, it didn't get boring or preachy whereas you wanted to just skim over certain parts. Those tiny descriptions allowed this reader to be transported into the plot and vividly create the imagery of the story. The characters were brought to life due to the specific graphic depiction. Believable and explicit. As I stated earlier, it was classified as a "suspense", however, it wasn't a typical standard "suspense" as one would think of like a "who done it". It was more of a suspense whereas there was page turning apprehension as the chilling predicaments, compelling incidents, staggering events and outcome of the theme. What I thought would take me above average time to read because of the length of the book, took me days because I couldn't put it down. One of my thoughts while reading this novel, was that with the definitive, distinct, precise and tenacious facts of this particular topic, that the author had put in years of research, was an embedded covert individual or had lived the lifestyle, because of it's convincing nature. These 480 pages impacted and will stay with me for a very long time. Highly recommend! Extraordinary!! Powerful!!
(2012 Challenges: EBooks, FreeReads, Where Are You, A-Z, 52 in 52, Outdo Yourself, 100+)
Published by POW WOW Books
Publication Date: July 1, 2011
ISBN-10: 0986879800
ISBN-13: 978-0986879807
Pages: 458
Review Copy from: Author
Edition: Kindle
My Rating: 5
Synopsis:
Lillian is only 13 when her parents marry her to a middle-aged Bishop of a fundamentalist sect who practices polygamy. She is forced to live with her new husband’s many wives and children on his compound tucked away in the Canadian wilderness.
The hardships of poverty and isolation have crushed the will of just about everybody in his flock. They suffer in silent submissiveness, trying to please their despotic leader. He justifies the humiliating treatment of his dependents by citing ‘Section 132 of the Doctrine & Covenants’ of his fundamentalist religion.
Until, one day, Lillian had enough. But it is dangerous to try and escape the Bishop’s iron rule. He practices blood-atonement, which is quietly sanctioned by the ‘Gatekeepers’, an American secret society within the Fundamentalist Mormon Church.
Lillian must find out-side help if she ever wants to leave the Bishop’s compound – but how can she do this if she is locked up without any means of communication?
Lillian doesn’t know how life outside a compound functions. She only knows that she can not live like this much longer. Many questions plaque her troubled mind.
Why do her sister-wives put up with this hardship, knowing only a bleak future lies ahead of them? Where do the child-brides come from, the Bishop keeps adding to his family? Where do some of his daughters disappear to, once they come of age? Lillian’s defiance grows with every injustice she witnesses – until she can’t hide her rebellion any longer.
Her desperate struggle to escape draws the reader into a very dark, very dangerous place. But not all is hopeless. When land developer Richard Bergman buys the neighboring property, Lillian’s luck seems to be changing …
My Thoughts and Opinion: Since I believe in honest reviews, I feel that I need to start this critique with some caveats as to how I came to read this book, what happened in the interim and how my personality/thought process played a role in the review.
First, author and friend, Melissa Foster (Megan's Way, Chasing Amanda, Come Back To Me and Traces of Kara) contacted me, which she has done on several occasions, to recommend and ask if I would read, review and host an author showcase for one of her peers. I, in return, emailed Ms. Zeiner and offered a spotlight on my blog but was honest and stated that I didn't know exactly when I would be able to read and review her book due to back log. She accepted and we agreed upon a date, May 29th that she would be featured. With emails back and forth to gather information for the spotlight, Helga asked about Partners In Crime Tours since her book is categorized as suspense. She decide to book a tour through Partners In Crime Tours, and at that time, I still hadn't started reading her book. I am sure that some people will think that I give books high ratings because they decide to tour with our company (my partner being Molly from Reviews By Molly). That is not the case. I believe in honesty and integrity and will judge and write a review accordingly, no matter what.
Second, how my personality had a bearing on this book. I have always had a hunger for knowledge to learn about different cultures, religions, and life styles other than what I know and practice. Not to judge, condemn or condone but to learn and understand. Even though this was a fictional story, the details of a different religion and culture, was an eye opening education for me. With all that being said, now to my review.
My first thought when I started reading this book was "oh no...480 pages". I admit, I am one of those readers, who prefer books that are approximately 300 pages. It is definitely a mind over matter issue thinking it will take me many days and/or weeks to read. However, once I finished reading the Prologue, I was hooked. Ms. Zeiner's writing style was impeccable. It flowed smoothly even with the vast amount of minute details. Even with the minuscule depictions, it didn't get boring or preachy whereas you wanted to just skim over certain parts. Those tiny descriptions allowed this reader to be transported into the plot and vividly create the imagery of the story. The characters were brought to life due to the specific graphic depiction. Believable and explicit. As I stated earlier, it was classified as a "suspense", however, it wasn't a typical standard "suspense" as one would think of like a "who done it". It was more of a suspense whereas there was page turning apprehension as the chilling predicaments, compelling incidents, staggering events and outcome of the theme. What I thought would take me above average time to read because of the length of the book, took me days because I couldn't put it down. One of my thoughts while reading this novel, was that with the definitive, distinct, precise and tenacious facts of this particular topic, that the author had put in years of research, was an embedded covert individual or had lived the lifestyle, because of it's convincing nature. These 480 pages impacted and will stay with me for a very long time. Highly recommend! Extraordinary!! Powerful!!
(2012 Challenges: EBooks, FreeReads, Where Are You, A-Z, 52 in 52, Outdo Yourself, 100+)
Read
November 14, 2021This review was first posted on Northern Plunder, if you want to see more reviews please click here.
Wow, this book is definitely very different to my usual reads so different that I'm going to have to discuss a few subjects that you may find sensitive. I decided to give myself a week to read this book thinking I could do that easily, but boy was I wrong, in fact I think this book needs to come with a warning cause it really effected me and was super heavy to read. For most books about religion I tend to steer clear because I don't find it that interesting nor do I follow any religion, but I decided to give this book a chance because I wanted to know what the mystery was that surrounded Lillian. The book for the most part is from two characters points of view Lillian the thirteen year old child bride to the "Bishop" and Richard who is in short a big time redeveloper, the main trouble I had with his chapters were that he'd go into so much into the business side of things that it went over my head and I had no idea what was going on but I soon learned to skim parts of what he was saying so that I wouldn't be so confused which helped moved the story on a lot quicker but I appreciated them all the same because I realised the author was using her own knowledge within his chapters, as for Lillian's chapters I initially struggled with them for a completely different reason, they were interesting but I had such a hard time coping with the idea of a thirteen year old being sold into a marriage to a 40 year old man who already had over 10 wives, not to mention the chapters where he forced himself on her to the point she threw up in his face, *shudder*. So you're probably sat here thinking wow she didn't think much of this book but quiet the opposite, whilst what happened in the book tormented me I enjoyed how powerful the writing was to make me feel such a way and also want to throw up, but I couldn't put it down because I had to know what happened not just with her but with the other wives and children and whether the Gatekeepers could actually be of any help, it was all very tense.
Recommend? Yes if you can handle it.
Wow, this book is definitely very different to my usual reads so different that I'm going to have to discuss a few subjects that you may find sensitive. I decided to give myself a week to read this book thinking I could do that easily, but boy was I wrong, in fact I think this book needs to come with a warning cause it really effected me and was super heavy to read. For most books about religion I tend to steer clear because I don't find it that interesting nor do I follow any religion, but I decided to give this book a chance because I wanted to know what the mystery was that surrounded Lillian. The book for the most part is from two characters points of view Lillian the thirteen year old child bride to the "Bishop" and Richard who is in short a big time redeveloper, the main trouble I had with his chapters were that he'd go into so much into the business side of things that it went over my head and I had no idea what was going on but I soon learned to skim parts of what he was saying so that I wouldn't be so confused which helped moved the story on a lot quicker but I appreciated them all the same because I realised the author was using her own knowledge within his chapters, as for Lillian's chapters I initially struggled with them for a completely different reason, they were interesting but I had such a hard time coping with the idea of a thirteen year old being sold into a marriage to a 40 year old man who already had over 10 wives, not to mention the chapters where he forced himself on her to the point she threw up in his face, *shudder*. So you're probably sat here thinking wow she didn't think much of this book but quiet the opposite, whilst what happened in the book tormented me I enjoyed how powerful the writing was to make me feel such a way and also want to throw up, but I couldn't put it down because I had to know what happened not just with her but with the other wives and children and whether the Gatekeepers could actually be of any help, it was all very tense.
Recommend? Yes if you can handle it.
October 23, 2012
A long read but a great read :) Horrifyingly real, and takes you into the mind and world of a brainwashed 13 year old who is married to an old man in an isolated polygamous compound.
The setting of the camp is hauntingly real. The huts, the lack of food, the clothes, being at the dump, working until they're exhausted and being told it's not enough. It really makes you feel for these women who are clearly strong but are so brainwashed and sheltered that they have no idea how to navigate their way out of this horrid world they're in.
I liked Martha/Lillian for the most part. Her transformation is very intriguing as she starts as a 13 year old girl who can't wait to get married and start giving her husband children, but she has not at all been told a thing about sex. Upon her husband raping her, she vomits all over him so many times he loses interest in her and she is sort of shunned into a room to teach the children.
My only issue with Martha/Lillian is that she fell madly in love within one scene with the son of her husband who due to their marriage is now also her own son even though he's older than her. It literally happens in one scene where he touches her cheek and this whole "I'm his/he's mine" thing happens immediately. She's never spoken to him before and she's been at the compound for six months to a year before this happens. It might just be me putting modern day expectations of a teenage girl onto one who is clearly so socially underdeveloped that she doesn't understand really anything that goes on around her.
I found Richard and Daisy interesting at the beginning, but I didn't really care for them by the end. I honestly don't think we needed as many chapters dedicated to them (they are living in the real world as real estate people, they aren't in the compound). But each to their own, maybe the writer loved those two.
There are a few technical errors in chapters where the POV shifted for a sentence or two, rookie mistakes really that an editor should have picked up. The story is told from Martha/Lillian's perspective and Richard the land developer. And during a chapter we will suddenly be in the mind of another character for some reason.
Definitely worth a read. It's long, but if you have the time to sit down and read it it's quite enthralling.
The setting of the camp is hauntingly real. The huts, the lack of food, the clothes, being at the dump, working until they're exhausted and being told it's not enough. It really makes you feel for these women who are clearly strong but are so brainwashed and sheltered that they have no idea how to navigate their way out of this horrid world they're in.
I liked Martha/Lillian for the most part. Her transformation is very intriguing as she starts as a 13 year old girl who can't wait to get married and start giving her husband children, but she has not at all been told a thing about sex. Upon her husband raping her, she vomits all over him so many times he loses interest in her and she is sort of shunned into a room to teach the children.
My only issue with Martha/Lillian is that she fell madly in love within one scene with the son of her husband who due to their marriage is now also her own son even though he's older than her. It literally happens in one scene where he touches her cheek and this whole "I'm his/he's mine" thing happens immediately. She's never spoken to him before and she's been at the compound for six months to a year before this happens. It might just be me putting modern day expectations of a teenage girl onto one who is clearly so socially underdeveloped that she doesn't understand really anything that goes on around her.
I found Richard and Daisy interesting at the beginning, but I didn't really care for them by the end. I honestly don't think we needed as many chapters dedicated to them (they are living in the real world as real estate people, they aren't in the compound). But each to their own, maybe the writer loved those two.
There are a few technical errors in chapters where the POV shifted for a sentence or two, rookie mistakes really that an editor should have picked up. The story is told from Martha/Lillian's perspective and Richard the land developer. And during a chapter we will suddenly be in the mind of another character for some reason.
Definitely worth a read. It's long, but if you have the time to sit down and read it it's quite enthralling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2023
A very disturbing book about a young girl forced to marry a much older man who already has many wives and how those wives were treated as possessions and brainwashed into thinking they would go to hell if they didn't obey their husband
November 25, 2024
Such a great ending, although almost too perfect for my liking. Sad, disturbing story that brought a documentary I watched come to life.
September 24, 2012
Obedience is preached in the much-read Section 132 of this polygamous sect’s holy book, and obedience is forced on its women. Basing her story of news of the Texas polygamy scandal, author Helga Zeiner imagines a breakaway group from Mormonism’s fundamentalist breakaways, and tells the story of a child bride learning how her faith has betrayed her.
The story starts with horror then swings to haunted beauty as the sweetly innocent child travels with her parents to meet her dream. Readers know the dream is a nightmare, but the child has the same happy-ever-after hopes as any thirteen-year-old offered the promise of romance. A lovely contrast is drawn between Arizona’s heat and Canada’s cold, and the descriptive language, built on the child’s experience, is truly haunting… as is the tale.
While the thirteen-year-old comes of age in the compound, a second leg to this story follows a land developer whose vision of love and hope is just as flawed—women as tools to suit his needs, but at least not children as brides. Cultures clash. True love steps back and waits. And hope trickles through with the thaw of ice and snow.
Repeating facts for effect or added detail slows this story sometimes, and the author’s voice intervenes occasionally, distracting the reader from the characters’ points of view. But Section 132 builds into a powerful tale, scarily plausible in a world where such things really do still happen, pleasingly sympathetic to the effect of culture on choice, and filled with promise after all and hope. It’s a dark tale, not for the overly squeamish, but it’s well timed and well told and I’m really glad I read it.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
The story starts with horror then swings to haunted beauty as the sweetly innocent child travels with her parents to meet her dream. Readers know the dream is a nightmare, but the child has the same happy-ever-after hopes as any thirteen-year-old offered the promise of romance. A lovely contrast is drawn between Arizona’s heat and Canada’s cold, and the descriptive language, built on the child’s experience, is truly haunting… as is the tale.
While the thirteen-year-old comes of age in the compound, a second leg to this story follows a land developer whose vision of love and hope is just as flawed—women as tools to suit his needs, but at least not children as brides. Cultures clash. True love steps back and waits. And hope trickles through with the thaw of ice and snow.
Repeating facts for effect or added detail slows this story sometimes, and the author’s voice intervenes occasionally, distracting the reader from the characters’ points of view. But Section 132 builds into a powerful tale, scarily plausible in a world where such things really do still happen, pleasingly sympathetic to the effect of culture on choice, and filled with promise after all and hope. It’s a dark tale, not for the overly squeamish, but it’s well timed and well told and I’m really glad I read it.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
May 24, 2013
This was a very disturbing story that I just couldn't put down. Hence, 4 stars. It all felt so very real from the shocking murder in the first chapter to the emotional and physical torture endured by the family of the Bishop. The parallel stories from Richard and Martha's points of view were very well written and felt like first hand accounts instead of fiction. I found myself quite caught up in all of it. I could have done less with Richard's self-loathing, but the rest of the characters are quite rich and there is even a nice 'twist' I sort of saw coming but wasn't for sure until it was done and said. I was more than satisfied with the ending and I will seek out other works by Helga Zeiner as she is a class act in writing about a difficult and confusing subject.
March 17, 2025
Religious BS and how women are treated as property thoroughly disgusts me! Shamefull!! That said this story sucked me in from the start.
The storyline is about a real estate developer, Richard, who risks his entire company to create a rural retreat in the hills of BC, Canada. He discovers that in order to make his dream a reality he must try to purchase some land adjacent to his land, from the landowner,Jake Law, the head of an abusive polygamous compound.
So the story is told in two parallel storylines. .. that of Richard & Daisy who are business partners trying to develop their property. Boring at times.
The second storyline involves a fundamentalist sect of Mormonisn that practices polygamy. Cringy stuff!
The story comes to a point where the two worlds collide as Richard approaches his neighbor with the intention of buying off some land from him.
The storyline is about a real estate developer, Richard, who risks his entire company to create a rural retreat in the hills of BC, Canada. He discovers that in order to make his dream a reality he must try to purchase some land adjacent to his land, from the landowner,Jake Law, the head of an abusive polygamous compound.
So the story is told in two parallel storylines. .. that of Richard & Daisy who are business partners trying to develop their property. Boring at times.
The second storyline involves a fundamentalist sect of Mormonisn that practices polygamy. Cringy stuff!
The story comes to a point where the two worlds collide as Richard approaches his neighbor with the intention of buying off some land from him.
January 28, 2020
GRIPPING & INTENSE!
Not an easy read but definitely an eye opening read that brought about a thunderstorm of emotions a shocking unnerving storyline that had me from the start to the ending that gave me a small sense of relief but still had me dwelling on those that did not have a choice due to the brain washing of their religion. I felt the fear the disgust the loneliness and got a strong grasp of how this is just the way it was for these poor females born into such a cruel believing world without a single say and having to accept and do as they were told and taught. A mind invading story filled with cruel atrocious crimes that I did not enjoy but am glad to have read and would gladly recommend it to others.
Not an easy read but definitely an eye opening read that brought about a thunderstorm of emotions a shocking unnerving storyline that had me from the start to the ending that gave me a small sense of relief but still had me dwelling on those that did not have a choice due to the brain washing of their religion. I felt the fear the disgust the loneliness and got a strong grasp of how this is just the way it was for these poor females born into such a cruel believing world without a single say and having to accept and do as they were told and taught. A mind invading story filled with cruel atrocious crimes that I did not enjoy but am glad to have read and would gladly recommend it to others.
April 15, 2025
The first chapter of this book immediately shocks and horrifies you. I needed to read this book as quickly as I could. Helga Zeiner weaves a tale based on polygamist cults, FLDS and child brides. Lillian (Martha) is a 13 year old sent to be the wife of a "Bishop" in a remote Canadian compound. She dreams of her husband being handsome and kind and who will treat her well. Instead she is married to an older, overweight tyrant who forces himself on her. Her life in the compound is exhausting as the women must be obedient, sweet and work hard constantly. She is cold and hungry.
The second story line is a developer, Richard, who is buying the land next to the compound and has to deal with the Bishop. Both story lines are so interesting as you dive into the lives of everyone involved.
The second story line is a developer, Richard, who is buying the land next to the compound and has to deal with the Bishop. Both story lines are so interesting as you dive into the lives of everyone involved.
July 23, 2021
Haunting
Despite the recommendation of a friend, I was cautious to start reading the book based on its description. Still, however repulsive the subject, I was drawn in instantly. Sad and frustrating, the story gives a general idea of what it was/still is like to live under inconceivable circumstances. Quickly paced, suspenseful, this well told tale reveals the inner life in a fundamentalist Mormon sect.
I have turned the last page with the uplifted heart and thankfulness to the author for the story I will never forget, especially that the ending brings some hope for the people under the influence of this particular religious movement. Highly recommended.
Despite the recommendation of a friend, I was cautious to start reading the book based on its description. Still, however repulsive the subject, I was drawn in instantly. Sad and frustrating, the story gives a general idea of what it was/still is like to live under inconceivable circumstances. Quickly paced, suspenseful, this well told tale reveals the inner life in a fundamentalist Mormon sect.
I have turned the last page with the uplifted heart and thankfulness to the author for the story I will never forget, especially that the ending brings some hope for the people under the influence of this particular religious movement. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2020
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and just like the first one this is a brilliantly written story. The plot is one that made me stop and think as it does cover an area that I rarely think about. It seems that the author has done a lot of research and thought into this plot and how it plays out. It’s a definite page-turner and a must read for anyone who is into this genre.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2024
Many, many stars🌟
Can't even describe how deeply I felt this story of Lillian and all the unfortunate women, who were born, raised, brainwashed, abused and mistreated by misogynistic, disgusting paedophiles on name of God. From page one till end I was on edge, what would happen next, Book was written beautifully, giving insights of true life of cult formation. Which I had very little knowledge of it.
I only can thank the author for giving us such a brilliant book.❤
Can't even describe how deeply I felt this story of Lillian and all the unfortunate women, who were born, raised, brainwashed, abused and mistreated by misogynistic, disgusting paedophiles on name of God. From page one till end I was on edge, what would happen next, Book was written beautifully, giving insights of true life of cult formation. Which I had very little knowledge of it.
I only can thank the author for giving us such a brilliant book.❤
May 14, 2023
Heated up nicely
At first I couldn't foresee myself finishing this book. It gradually got more interesting, and by about a third of the way through I realized that it had sucked me in. So, don't let the first bit fool you, it becomes a nice little read with an interesting topic/plot with some crazy tossed in!
At first I couldn't foresee myself finishing this book. It gradually got more interesting, and by about a third of the way through I realized that it had sucked me in. So, don't let the first bit fool you, it becomes a nice little read with an interesting topic/plot with some crazy tossed in!
October 16, 2024
I couldn’t quit reading
This is such a heartbreaking story but also a true account of the tragic life these people are going through today. It’s incredibly hard to believe that anyone could be so led astray as to actually starve to death along with their children. I definitely would recommend this read, even though I had tears in my eyes most of the way through it…
This is such a heartbreaking story but also a true account of the tragic life these people are going through today. It’s incredibly hard to believe that anyone could be so led astray as to actually starve to death along with their children. I definitely would recommend this read, even though I had tears in my eyes most of the way through it…
March 14, 2025
Disturbing
I hope this story is based more on imagination than fact. At one time the Norman Church condoned polygamy. As far as I know it is against the law, at least in the USA. This book, however, paints a horrible picture of the practice. The story is well written and hard to put down.
I hope this story is based more on imagination than fact. At one time the Norman Church condoned polygamy. As far as I know it is against the law, at least in the USA. This book, however, paints a horrible picture of the practice. The story is well written and hard to put down.
March 25, 2025
INTERESTING!!
I didn’t know too much about that religious cult. I thought it was a story that dated back in earlier times. But then they were talking about cell phone and emails so I realized it was set in modern times. If the story is accurate women (girls) were treated very poorly,
Worse than animals!
I didn’t know too much about that religious cult. I thought it was a story that dated back in earlier times. But then they were talking about cell phone and emails so I realized it was set in modern times. If the story is accurate women (girls) were treated very poorly,
Worse than animals!
December 6, 2025
It had a very interesting plot and definitely a Page Turner. But as the book went on, the plot regarding Richard, became a little corny with his interactions with Daisy and big Jake. Made me cringe at times. And I thought the ending was a cop out. Regardless, it was a quick read and it kept you interested.
August 10, 2017
Good
Lillian is 13 when her parents 'sell' her to an old man as a child bride. She becomes a sister wife to his other wives. Her husband is cruel. Lillian is trapped in this life until fate intervenes.
Lillian is 13 when her parents 'sell' her to an old man as a child bride. She becomes a sister wife to his other wives. Her husband is cruel. Lillian is trapped in this life until fate intervenes.
September 19, 2019
Disturbing to think this could happen
The book is written from the viewpoint of a terrified but very brave child bride raised and indoctrinated in a polygamist cult. Very believable, very well written and completely horrifying.
The book is written from the viewpoint of a terrified but very brave child bride raised and indoctrinated in a polygamist cult. Very believable, very well written and completely horrifying.
August 2, 2024
unimpressed
This is a subject that clearly needs addressed but I was unimpressed with the bias and inaccuracies that were presented as fact.
The tragedy of underage polygamy and sext trafficking is disturbing.
This is a subject that clearly needs addressed but I was unimpressed with the bias and inaccuracies that were presented as fact.
The tragedy of underage polygamy and sext trafficking is disturbing.
August 13, 2024
Terrific! Book Hangover
This book was so good. The story was fiction and I'm sure the author did her research. If you are familiar with the Warren Jeff scandal and want to read something similar in a fictional story then you should read this. A real eye opener into the cult life.
This book was so good. The story was fiction and I'm sure the author did her research. If you are familiar with the Warren Jeff scandal and want to read something similar in a fictional story then you should read this. A real eye opener into the cult life.
August 16, 2024
Lillian
Not too bad but not a book that I couldn’t put down until finished. How much truth is in this book I-have no idea. t times very slow reading and boring but still needed to finish. The last third made the book worth finishing
Not too bad but not a book that I couldn’t put down until finished. How much truth is in this book I-have no idea. t times very slow reading and boring but still needed to finish. The last third made the book worth finishing
August 23, 2024
Good read, but predictable.
I enjoyed parts of the story, but predicted the Richard-Daisy relationship after the first chapter or two. As the story progressed, I could predict almost exactly what was going to happen. Also, a few grammatical errors.
I enjoyed parts of the story, but predicted the Richard-Daisy relationship after the first chapter or two. As the story progressed, I could predict almost exactly what was going to happen. Also, a few grammatical errors.
November 26, 2024
eye opener
this book was written by using Helga's imagination, but I feel there is some truth hidden in it? I found it very horrifying to think that there could possibly really be? people like this around?! Great story! wish there was more like it!
this book was written by using Helga's imagination, but I feel there is some truth hidden in it? I found it very horrifying to think that there could possibly really be? people like this around?! Great story! wish there was more like it!
December 29, 2024
Incredibly hard to read. The fact that the story was based upon factual information makes it doubly hard to read. The atrocities that occur under the label of religious beliefs and are blatantly human trafficking.
February 2, 2025
I couldn’t -up this book down The life of exploited women and children is real, polygamy is a messed up religious cult. This story tells the story of one particular cult/commune It’s a must read!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2025
cringy at times
Based on a girl that was born and raised in an extremist Mormon compound. This novel is cringy at times. The best part is the last 50 pages. Richard’s part is too drawn out in my opinion.
Based on a girl that was born and raised in an extremist Mormon compound. This novel is cringy at times. The best part is the last 50 pages. Richard’s part is too drawn out in my opinion.
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