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Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival
They took an oath of absolute secrecy and lived in a covert world in plain sight.
“It didn’t look like a cult. I was relieved. Nobody was in black robes chanting. No kids running around in rags with faraway gazes. Just a bunch of young professionals––hedge funders, doctors, entrepreneurs, lawyers––in a secret loft in Tribeca. They looked, I realized, a lot like me,” says Spencer Schneider. “I had no way to possibly know they were brainwashed––hollowed out souls––under the clutches of a leader every bit as twisted and commanding as Jim Jones.”
When Schneider was a twenty-nine-year-old Manhattan corporate lawyer, an acquaintance invited him to a secret meeting of an “esoteric school for inner development,” known to its students simply as “School.” Suspicious yet curious, he went. At first he found support, community, and meaning among other highly educated New Yorkers. But soon, he found himself trapped in one of the nation’s most secretive and abusive cults. In the name of personal development, hundreds endured decades of sexual and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled savings and inheritances, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for their charismatic and demented leader Sharon Gans, a washed-up actress who claimed to be on a spiritual par with Buddha.
This is Schneider’s story of how he got entangled in School, why he stayed, and how––impossibly––he got out after twenty-three years. It’s a cautionary tale about the power of group psychology and how anyone can be radicalized. It’s also a story of surviving traumatic abuse and ultimately finding a path to healing.
“It didn’t look like a cult. I was relieved. Nobody was in black robes chanting. No kids running around in rags with faraway gazes. Just a bunch of young professionals––hedge funders, doctors, entrepreneurs, lawyers––in a secret loft in Tribeca. They looked, I realized, a lot like me,” says Spencer Schneider. “I had no way to possibly know they were brainwashed––hollowed out souls––under the clutches of a leader every bit as twisted and commanding as Jim Jones.”
When Schneider was a twenty-nine-year-old Manhattan corporate lawyer, an acquaintance invited him to a secret meeting of an “esoteric school for inner development,” known to its students simply as “School.” Suspicious yet curious, he went. At first he found support, community, and meaning among other highly educated New Yorkers. But soon, he found himself trapped in one of the nation’s most secretive and abusive cults. In the name of personal development, hundreds endured decades of sexual and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled savings and inheritances, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for their charismatic and demented leader Sharon Gans, a washed-up actress who claimed to be on a spiritual par with Buddha.
This is Schneider’s story of how he got entangled in School, why he stayed, and how––impossibly––he got out after twenty-three years. It’s a cautionary tale about the power of group psychology and how anyone can be radicalized. It’s also a story of surviving traumatic abuse and ultimately finding a path to healing.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published July 5, 2022
199 people are currently reading
1753 people want to read
About the author
Spencer Schneider
4 books11 followersSpencer L. Schneider is a native of Long Island and practices law. After his escape from the Sharon Gans cult––School––Mr. Schneider took up marathon and winter swimming, became an ocean lifeguard, and started the blog about School called “Cult Revolt.” A contributing writer for East Magazine, he lives in New York City and East Hampton.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
October 5, 2022
Real Rating: 3.5* of five, rounded up for its urgency
The Publisher Says: “We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child’s private school and sold you your brownstone. But you’d never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.”
Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult.
Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans.
“During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That’s what it’s like when you’re in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York’s educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.”
At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It’s about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: I'm going to reproduce the author's "Nine Tell-Tale Signs You're in a Cult":
I was tense and uneasy as I read this book...I know lots of people like the author from my years living in Manhattan. It could easily be any one of them, any one!, who tells this awful, painful story. I don't think I know the author, though honestly it doesn't matter, the poor guy's been through so much and in service of so little.
His cult experience reminded me of my mentally ill mother's tactics and techniques for controlling others. I don't see that as a nurturing thing, though I suppose I can see why someone who felt...unmoored...would see it as such. It's a cruel world out there, and to be told...convinced...that the cruelty you're experiencing is actually lovingkindness replicated religious nuts' favorite tactic of "love, it's all done from love"...just not for you, vile sinner, but for the little animatronic cultist they are trying to free you to become! (I think they actually have the balls to call it "your best self.")
So his decades of serving the whims and needs of capricious, demanding, judgmental Others are a bitter recapitulation of the way my experience of christian and jewish religious nuts tried to grab hold of me in my youth. It was a chilling, dreadful reminder of how easy it is for others who have Othered you to convince you to give up the real, authentic you and submit to them and their warped, perverted will.
That said, the author's clearly got something to say about how he feels vis-a-vis gay people. No mention ever comes without his vigorous denial that he's gay. Okay, so...why bring it up? It kinda-sorta goes along with my main dissatisfaction with the read as a read. It feels scattershot. It takes time to explain a life, and I think that time was laser focused on the axe he quite genuinely and necessarily grinds against Sharon Gans and her vile School. It left me feeling like I was looking at the hole where that guy had been, not the guy who'd climbed out of said hole.
It's #Spooktober. Read something factual...and still truly, inescapably, chilling and horrifying.
The Publisher Says: “We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child’s private school and sold you your brownstone. But you’d never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.”
Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult.
Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans.
“During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That’s what it’s like when you’re in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York’s educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.”
At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It’s about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: I'm going to reproduce the author's "Nine Tell-Tale Signs You're in a Cult":
You give an inordinate amount of time and money to the group.
The group's ideology is strict, exacting, and unforgiving.
Your life is highly regulated by the group.
You cannot challenge the leaders or the ideology—their word is final.
The leaders will punish you for breaking the rules of the group.
Former members are ostracized and denigrated.
The group isolates you from your friends and family.
The group discourages you from thinking for yourself.
You are afraid to leave the group.
I was tense and uneasy as I read this book...I know lots of people like the author from my years living in Manhattan. It could easily be any one of them, any one!, who tells this awful, painful story. I don't think I know the author, though honestly it doesn't matter, the poor guy's been through so much and in service of so little.
His cult experience reminded me of my mentally ill mother's tactics and techniques for controlling others. I don't see that as a nurturing thing, though I suppose I can see why someone who felt...unmoored...would see it as such. It's a cruel world out there, and to be told...convinced...that the cruelty you're experiencing is actually lovingkindness replicated religious nuts' favorite tactic of "love, it's all done from love"...just not for you, vile sinner, but for the little animatronic cultist they are trying to free you to become! (I think they actually have the balls to call it "your best self.")
So his decades of serving the whims and needs of capricious, demanding, judgmental Others are a bitter recapitulation of the way my experience of christian and jewish religious nuts tried to grab hold of me in my youth. It was a chilling, dreadful reminder of how easy it is for others who have Othered you to convince you to give up the real, authentic you and submit to them and their warped, perverted will.
That said, the author's clearly got something to say about how he feels vis-a-vis gay people. No mention ever comes without his vigorous denial that he's gay. Okay, so...why bring it up? It kinda-sorta goes along with my main dissatisfaction with the read as a read. It feels scattershot. It takes time to explain a life, and I think that time was laser focused on the axe he quite genuinely and necessarily grinds against Sharon Gans and her vile School. It left me feeling like I was looking at the hole where that guy had been, not the guy who'd climbed out of said hole.
It's #Spooktober. Read something factual...and still truly, inescapably, chilling and horrifying.
June 12, 2022
Spencer Schneider tells the story of his decades in School, “an esoteric school for inner development,” which was really just a cult.
I love reading about cults – they’re fascinating in a horrifying, often voyeuristic way. Schneider was writing about his own story, about a cult I’d never heard of – two points in this book’s favor. I was excited to learn about how people could go about their daily business in New York City whilst having their lives held in a chokehold by a cult leader the whole time.
For the most part, Manhattan Cult Story delivers. The author details his involvement with School from beginning to end, showing how he fell under its sway and how it pervaded every aspect of his life. The author does a good job of reducing the distance between the events and the reader, making the abuses that he and his friends suffered quite vivid.
However, I did think the pacing quite odd, as we jump forward quite a lot in the timeline – inevitable when we are covering over two decades, I suppose, but I did feel that some events got brushed over as a result. I also wished that the author could have talked more about how exactly the cult managed to stay hidden while exerting so much control over its followers – things like how him distancing himself from his family and old friends went unnoticed.
Overall, a good read with a compelling narrator.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I love reading about cults – they’re fascinating in a horrifying, often voyeuristic way. Schneider was writing about his own story, about a cult I’d never heard of – two points in this book’s favor. I was excited to learn about how people could go about their daily business in New York City whilst having their lives held in a chokehold by a cult leader the whole time.
For the most part, Manhattan Cult Story delivers. The author details his involvement with School from beginning to end, showing how he fell under its sway and how it pervaded every aspect of his life. The author does a good job of reducing the distance between the events and the reader, making the abuses that he and his friends suffered quite vivid.
However, I did think the pacing quite odd, as we jump forward quite a lot in the timeline – inevitable when we are covering over two decades, I suppose, but I did feel that some events got brushed over as a result. I also wished that the author could have talked more about how exactly the cult managed to stay hidden while exerting so much control over its followers – things like how him distancing himself from his family and old friends went unnoticed.
Overall, a good read with a compelling narrator.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 8, 2022
I love stories about cults. It's just such a fascinating thing how smart people get caught up in groups without really figuring out that they're being taken advantage of and manipulated. The more in depth the discussion, the better. I want all the details about the charismatic leaders and what the members thought their own purposes were and the harrowing escape!
Unfortunately, Manhattan Cult Story didn't deliver those things. I found it very superficial and unengaging. By halfway through, I just wanted it to be over because I didn't care anymore. I felt no connection to the author at all. There are so many great books about cults that I'd recommend skipping this one and finding another.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me a copy of the audiobook.
Unfortunately, Manhattan Cult Story didn't deliver those things. I found it very superficial and unengaging. By halfway through, I just wanted it to be over because I didn't care anymore. I felt no connection to the author at all. There are so many great books about cults that I'd recommend skipping this one and finding another.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me a copy of the audiobook.
March 19, 2023
I've built this book up in my mind since before it was even published, and I'm glad it delivered.
The first time I heard about it was from The Cult Vault's Twitter account and I was immediately interested in what was inside. I like to research cults for fun, but this was one I'd never heard about at that point which only made me more eager to read the book, because there was so little info about it available online.
Now that I've read it...wow. At first I thought if I was asked to join this group I'd definitely attend the one month trial period, after that I'd bail out because there's no way I'm giving any group money, especially not that much money that I don't even have. But for that one month, they'd have me for sure, so I can see why Spencer got sucked in.
But so many dark things went on behind the scenes, making me wonder how this cult remained hidden for so long.
I'm looking forward to even more survivors telling their stories, and I can't wait to reread this when I get a physical copy.
I could relate to this because I’m always thinking about my next meal, even during meals.
Me too Mr Schneider, me too.
4.5
The first time I heard about it was from The Cult Vault's Twitter account and I was immediately interested in what was inside. I like to research cults for fun, but this was one I'd never heard about at that point which only made me more eager to read the book, because there was so little info about it available online.
Now that I've read it...wow. At first I thought if I was asked to join this group I'd definitely attend the one month trial period, after that I'd bail out because there's no way I'm giving any group money, especially not that much money that I don't even have. But for that one month, they'd have me for sure, so I can see why Spencer got sucked in.
But so many dark things went on behind the scenes, making me wonder how this cult remained hidden for so long.
I'm looking forward to even more survivors telling their stories, and I can't wait to reread this when I get a physical copy.
I could relate to this because I’m always thinking about my next meal, even during meals.
Me too Mr Schneider, me too.
4.5
October 31, 2022
Publishes July 5
Wow! That was quite the ride! I find cult stories fascinating, and this one didn't disappoint. Spencer makes you really feel what it could have felt like to be sitting in the Space with Sharon. Scared to stick up for your friends, wanting her approval, just crazy to know these situations happen. I love the details shared even though this story took place over decades of time. I'd call this a solid 3.75, not sure why I'm not just calling it a 4, but *shrug*
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC to read and review.
Wow! That was quite the ride! I find cult stories fascinating, and this one didn't disappoint. Spencer makes you really feel what it could have felt like to be sitting in the Space with Sharon. Scared to stick up for your friends, wanting her approval, just crazy to know these situations happen. I love the details shared even though this story took place over decades of time. I'd call this a solid 3.75, not sure why I'm not just calling it a 4, but *shrug*
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC to read and review.
April 10, 2022
I keep going back and forth between 4 and 5 stars, so I'm going to stick with 4.5 and round up for Goodreads.
This story was incredible. If you've ever wondered what it's like to be in a cult without putting yourself through that trauma, read this book.
Spencer Schneider was a member of a group simply called "School" for over twenty years of his life (late '80's to 2010's). His story begins with where his life circumstances and the flattery tactics of the School led him to join in the first place. It explained the initial teachings of the group, and how they normalize the concepts to their members. Spencer often mentions how something would be said and he'd think "what the hell?!" But the teacher would 'explain' and it would all make sense. It then introduces their eccentric (truly bat-shit crazy) leader and how these people were all already so conditioned that they just accepted what she did and said - and let her abuse and exploit them.
He then wraps up with how he began to see the group clearly for what it was, got out, and his life after.
I obviously know that cults are real and they definitely are still around today, but it's so easy to just be blown away by the absurdity of how people get duped into these situations and Spencer did an incredible job making you truly understand his thoughts and feelings throughout the whole experience.
I think the only thing holding me back from a true 5 star rating is I just wish I could have been able to read about other people's perspectives as well, but this book already has me doing research to find other accounts.
Thank you to Spencer Schneider, Skyhorse Publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC.
This story was incredible. If you've ever wondered what it's like to be in a cult without putting yourself through that trauma, read this book.
Spencer Schneider was a member of a group simply called "School" for over twenty years of his life (late '80's to 2010's). His story begins with where his life circumstances and the flattery tactics of the School led him to join in the first place. It explained the initial teachings of the group, and how they normalize the concepts to their members. Spencer often mentions how something would be said and he'd think "what the hell?!" But the teacher would 'explain' and it would all make sense. It then introduces their eccentric (truly bat-shit crazy) leader and how these people were all already so conditioned that they just accepted what she did and said - and let her abuse and exploit them.
He then wraps up with how he began to see the group clearly for what it was, got out, and his life after.
I obviously know that cults are real and they definitely are still around today, but it's so easy to just be blown away by the absurdity of how people get duped into these situations and Spencer did an incredible job making you truly understand his thoughts and feelings throughout the whole experience.
I think the only thing holding me back from a true 5 star rating is I just wish I could have been able to read about other people's perspectives as well, but this book already has me doing research to find other accounts.
Thank you to Spencer Schneider, Skyhorse Publishing, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC.
June 17, 2022
I always think that it is difficult to judge or rate someone's experience when they are the author of a book. But I figure he survived a cult, so he would be able to survive a book rating. This book definitely had some interesting facts about cults and what it is like to get caught up in one. I found it fascinating how the recruitment process works and how hard it is to leave once a person is involved. I like the beginning and ending sections of this book best. For me, the middle was a bit slow and the writing a little dry. I appreciate that author putting his experiences out there and hope he is doing well today.
March 25, 2022
This was an interesting read for me-- the subject matter was very engaging, particularly once the narration gets into how it truly was to be so deeply involved in a society like the School, while the writing itself felt a bit weak and inconsistent at times. Overall I would say the story is compelling, and though the very simplistic, forthright style of narration at the start of the book might have left me wishing for a bit more style, the substance does more than adequately make up for this. What I would note, is that the author seemed to have a bit of a change of style around the 70% mark, going from a very unbiased, straightforward way of conveying the events as they unfolded to a slightly more adventurous and bold voice suffused with much stronger emotions than had previously been displayed by the author. I found this change refreshing from the monotone of the previous two-thirds of the novel, but also a bit jarring, as it was not what I had come to expect from Manhattan Cult Story up to this point. The pacing suffered similarly, rushing through large periods of time & brushing over events, and then slowing immensely only to dwell on a period of time for seemingly no real reason or intended effect. These complaints aside, the story was very compelling and I found myself surprisingly invested in the people within's lives and well-beings, feeling sympathy for the victims and the pain they thought they had to endure for so many years. Schneider does a very competent job of making you feel like you are along for the ride with he & his fellow classmates throughout, cringing and sweating through the horrific abuse that became their daily norm.
I am not sure I would recommend it to anyone that is not hooked by the premise alone, but I for one found it difficult to put down for the past few days.
I am not sure I would recommend it to anyone that is not hooked by the premise alone, but I for one found it difficult to put down for the past few days.
October 30, 2024
Overall, I found this book to be quite interesting. Spencer joins a group called "School" where pretty smart, wealthy young people gather together and study philosophy and strategies for success at life. Overtime, it becomes apparent that School is something a bit more sinister. They use the typical cult strategies of ostracizing people from their family and friends and building emotional dependence on the validation provided by cult members.
It was engaging to read about Spencer's perceptions over time, but on some level, I never really understood why he felt being part of this group was so appealing other than the fact that he did build a pretty good legal business with fellow cult members as clients. There were so many red flags though. It's quite amazing how otherwise very bright people can get seduced by the sense of belonging and the belief that others have the key to success. Even by his own descriptions, it just didn't sound nearly as seductive as it must have been at the time.
I might have given this 4 stars, but at the end of the book, it basically was just as though Spencer tired of writing it. We don't really get a great sense of how he fares (other than taking up swimming and doing that well) professionally or personally in the aftermath or more importantly, how he feels being free.
It was engaging to read about Spencer's perceptions over time, but on some level, I never really understood why he felt being part of this group was so appealing other than the fact that he did build a pretty good legal business with fellow cult members as clients. There were so many red flags though. It's quite amazing how otherwise very bright people can get seduced by the sense of belonging and the belief that others have the key to success. Even by his own descriptions, it just didn't sound nearly as seductive as it must have been at the time.
I might have given this 4 stars, but at the end of the book, it basically was just as though Spencer tired of writing it. We don't really get a great sense of how he fares (other than taking up swimming and doing that well) professionally or personally in the aftermath or more importantly, how he feels being free.
July 28, 2025
Spencer Schneider is an American lawyer who spent 23 years, from his late 20s in the 1990s to his early 50s in the 2010s, in a New York City-based self-help cult led by the late small-time actress Sharon Gans. This cult specialized in recruiting affluent, successful, and pliant professionals. His 2022 memoir Manhattan Cult Story recounts how he became enmeshed in the cult under the pretense of self-improvement and acting, how he was isolated from his family and friends and coached to only form meaningful bonds with others in the cult, how he was looped into essentially an arranged marriage with a fellow cult member, how abuse and exploitation was normalized, how he figured out he was in a cult, and how he eventually left.
This is pretty typical as far as cult stories go. Schneider's recounting of his decades in the cult is largely matter-of-fact, though occasionally he's more circumspect in realizing how he was able to be manipulated. He clearly has a lot of anger for Gans, which is understandable, but probably not the most productive use of time and energy. This would be an interesting read to those who enjoy cult stories, in addition to others I'll link below.
Further reading: cult memoirs/exposés
The True Happiness Company: How a Girl Like Me Falls for a Cult Like That by Veena Dinavahi | my review - a similar cult story featuring similar control tactics
Slonim Woods 9: A Memoir by Daniel Levin | my review - another similar story; this male author was also manipulated by the cult leader questioning his sexuality and masculinity (this seems to be a common tactic used against men in cults)
Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show by Bethany Joy Lenz | my review - yet another similar story, about an actress' years and arranged marriage in a cult
A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy by Tia Levings | my review - another cult story, if you consider extreme fundamentalist Christian sects cults or cult-like
Don't Call It a Cult: The Shocking Story of Keith Raniere and the Women of NXIVM by Sarah Bernam
My statistics:
Book 233 for 2025
Book 2159 cumulatively
This is pretty typical as far as cult stories go. Schneider's recounting of his decades in the cult is largely matter-of-fact, though occasionally he's more circumspect in realizing how he was able to be manipulated. He clearly has a lot of anger for Gans, which is understandable, but probably not the most productive use of time and energy. This would be an interesting read to those who enjoy cult stories, in addition to others I'll link below.
Further reading: cult memoirs/exposés
The True Happiness Company: How a Girl Like Me Falls for a Cult Like That by Veena Dinavahi | my review - a similar cult story featuring similar control tactics
Slonim Woods 9: A Memoir by Daniel Levin | my review - another similar story; this male author was also manipulated by the cult leader questioning his sexuality and masculinity (this seems to be a common tactic used against men in cults)
Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show by Bethany Joy Lenz | my review - yet another similar story, about an actress' years and arranged marriage in a cult
A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy by Tia Levings | my review - another cult story, if you consider extreme fundamentalist Christian sects cults or cult-like
Don't Call It a Cult: The Shocking Story of Keith Raniere and the Women of NXIVM by Sarah Bernam
My statistics:
Book 233 for 2025
Book 2159 cumulatively
June 29, 2022
This book was good, and Spencer Schneider's descent into Sharon Gans' cult is pretty crazy. Unfortunately, and this feels bad to say when someone is recounting traumatic events, it feels like he brushed over a lot of it. He was in the cult for over 20 years and I still never got a good sense of how they operated or the overall picture, and as a result Gans' School comes off feeling very run-of-the-hill "bad person says mumbo jumbo to trick people into worshipping them" thing. It was a woman instead of a man, but otherwise, I don't think the memoir delved deep enough to give this a sense of distinction. And ultimately, it is Schneider's life, and he is probably still working through a lot of it, so I hate that I feel this way- while trying to process and recontextualize your life after severing most of what you've known from your adult life, you probably don't think too much about making it feel *distinct* from other cults. But I think the main missing ingredient here is that I never really understood why Schneider (or anybody else, for that matter) chose to join Gans and put up with her over-the-top nonsense. Sure, he said they were taken advantage of and manipulated it, and I certainly believe him. But the book itself doesn't do anything to convince me.
That said, I do think it showcases how these groups can operate so long undetected and seemingly benign, and the run-of-the-mill quality of it does make it a bit more terrifying, like "how many more of these are out there?". And I think Schneider wrote the story well, I just wish he had waited to write it or delved a bit deeper. Also, it was narrated very well.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review!
That said, I do think it showcases how these groups can operate so long undetected and seemingly benign, and the run-of-the-mill quality of it does make it a bit more terrifying, like "how many more of these are out there?". And I think Schneider wrote the story well, I just wish he had waited to write it or delved a bit deeper. Also, it was narrated very well.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy in exchange for an honest review!
June 5, 2022
This was an interesting read about how the author, Spencer Schneider, was recruited into a cult - the School - when he was 29 years old. He was part of the cult for 23 years and become part of the cult leader Sharon Gans’ close inner circle during his last few years there. The book charts his observations and experiences over those 23 years. The book kicks off well - drawing the reader in immediately with its pace, author’s background (he’s a corporate lawyer), and stage setting for the recruitment into the cult by a casual “friend.” The book showcases how, given certain conditions and circumstances, whether it’s dissatisfaction in their lives, wanting more out of life, seeking fulfillment, etc., people can be lured into situations - in this case, a cult - regardless of how “smart” they may be. I found the first quarter of the book to be the most engagingly presented. The next three quarters dive into the guts of the cult, but the writing felt “drier” and more reporter-like in its approach - still interesting though. I would have liked the author to have delved more than he did into how and why the cult leader was able to sustain such a large and ardent following - maybe it was too difficult for him to do that, and understandably so. I couldn’t quite wrap my head around how she was able to do that. The other part I wanted to learn more about was how the author left the cult. He does describe how and what he went though to extricate himself, but it sort of felt like he was describing what was happening to someone else - it didn’t seem so very personal. Again, maybe it was the trauma he experienced, which made it difficult to share - or maybe that is how he experienced it. I just expected a more personal approach, similar to the style of the first quarter of the book. Overall, I’m glad I read the book - an interesting account of how being drawn into a cult can happen, how it’s so difficult to leave, and the overall devastating emotional, mental, and psychological damage it leaves on people. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 10, 2022
Thank you so much to @netgalley and @authorspencerschneider for the opportunity to listen to an ARC of Manhattan Cult Story!
There is so much to be said about survivors of high control groups and abusive relationships. I've witnessed whistleblowers ridiculed and mocked for getting "sucked into the crazy", and how they would NEVER be stupid enough to fall for something like that. But from what I've learned and researched, it can happen to anyone. No one ever wakes up one day and decides to join a cult. The people who are "duped" never think they're signing up for something heinous, and Spencer's story was a prime example of the heartbreaking reality of cult indoctrination.
Manhattan Cult Story was engagingly written, and Spencer's journey was chronicled in such a way that the reader gets a very clear picture of what life was like in School without feeling bored with minute details. I love when true crime reads like fiction, and this most certainly fits the bill. The narration was excellent and added a larger depth to the story as well. I would highly recommend this book to all true-crime and cult fans.
There is so much to be said about survivors of high control groups and abusive relationships. I've witnessed whistleblowers ridiculed and mocked for getting "sucked into the crazy", and how they would NEVER be stupid enough to fall for something like that. But from what I've learned and researched, it can happen to anyone. No one ever wakes up one day and decides to join a cult. The people who are "duped" never think they're signing up for something heinous, and Spencer's story was a prime example of the heartbreaking reality of cult indoctrination.
Manhattan Cult Story was engagingly written, and Spencer's journey was chronicled in such a way that the reader gets a very clear picture of what life was like in School without feeling bored with minute details. I love when true crime reads like fiction, and this most certainly fits the bill. The narration was excellent and added a larger depth to the story as well. I would highly recommend this book to all true-crime and cult fans.
April 12, 2023
3.5 stars--This is an impressive and thought-provoking memoir about a bizarre cult known only as "School" and the people who were roped into it--spending incredible sums of money and large segments of their lives.
July 2, 2022
Manhattan Cult Story by Spencer Schneider
I think what intrigues me about this book is the easiness that intelligent people who are educated who you assume could see through fakery don't see it coming. I don't know I struggle with this idea all the time the crap people are truly believing in today is just bonkers to me. Then I have to realize the psychology is at play people are being manipulated to believe things that are just not right you have so much cognitive dissonance from people. The middle of the book felt like it was filled with fluff which made it kind of boring. It is still a must read to understand really what we are all up against because there are so many charlatans out there and sometimes they wear political clothing and god no one should worship anyone other then your higher power whoever that may be.
It is fitting that Sharon was a denier of covid 19 and the end result of that for her. My god this is scary times for people who are so easily willing to give up total autonomy to a group or cult of personality. People who claim that charlatans are some how a god like figure is so perverse and disgusting. I am emotional pissed disheartened and the other part of me has empathy and compassion to the utter abuse and trauma laid out so heavily. The pissed part of me wants the crazy ass cult personality types dispensed from society this is more than just Sharon Gans for me it is Donald Trump the same clown show and his followers who want so desperately to be part of the in crowd to sell their souls to the devil. The book makes my eyes even more wide open the ability to get people to be willing to harm another with violence. I am not trying to be alarmist but their is a percentage of people who want to use harm to further their cause. This book I hope for most of you even though it was boring during some parts of the book that it at least brought self awareness to a growing problem in society that people are being taken advantage of by using psychological means to manipulate and control people and groups. I want people to be mindful about manipulation and how easy a person fall prey to it.
Spencer you told a story that needed to be told I found some of the middle of the book to be hard to push through it felt almost like you are justifying what you did and you owe no justification. Unfortunately you where and are a victim of Sharon Gans and her cult. I am glad that you worked through everything in counseling. To learn to unwind 20 years of hard core manipulation speaks volumes of truly what kind of human being you are. The real work for you was unlearning what the manipulation did to you and for that you should be proud of yourself. The strength and courage it takes to put yourself out there after being a victim and allowing others to know so they don't become victims as well. Hold your head up high be proud for you have climbed a mountain to over come. The best parts is when the reader got to see you for who you truly are not the person who obsessed being some type of perfected robotic human being.
I was shocked at times at the cruelty of the silence as individuals where dehumanized chewed up spit out not only by Sharon but as a group. No one ever spoke up or stood up not once during any class or event. This behavior is disgusting and dehumanizing how anyone could allow themselves to be done this way is so sad.
My only criticism is that the writing and putting the story in more concrete way to be absorbed was at times over done on information that felt like filling pages to make the book thicker when the story came together more when the author talked more realistic about himself and the experience from his point of view. I thought to much crazy time was spent on Sharon her constant abuse was over highlighted. I think a few examples would have been enough and more time talking about the healing and recovery of your experience would make a far more interesting story. This is a 3.5 star book for me. I do recommend reading this people need knowledge and understanding of what they may be up against.
Thank you to Netgalley and Skyhorse Publishing for a free copy of the book for an honest review.
I think what intrigues me about this book is the easiness that intelligent people who are educated who you assume could see through fakery don't see it coming. I don't know I struggle with this idea all the time the crap people are truly believing in today is just bonkers to me. Then I have to realize the psychology is at play people are being manipulated to believe things that are just not right you have so much cognitive dissonance from people. The middle of the book felt like it was filled with fluff which made it kind of boring. It is still a must read to understand really what we are all up against because there are so many charlatans out there and sometimes they wear political clothing and god no one should worship anyone other then your higher power whoever that may be.
It is fitting that Sharon was a denier of covid 19 and the end result of that for her. My god this is scary times for people who are so easily willing to give up total autonomy to a group or cult of personality. People who claim that charlatans are some how a god like figure is so perverse and disgusting. I am emotional pissed disheartened and the other part of me has empathy and compassion to the utter abuse and trauma laid out so heavily. The pissed part of me wants the crazy ass cult personality types dispensed from society this is more than just Sharon Gans for me it is Donald Trump the same clown show and his followers who want so desperately to be part of the in crowd to sell their souls to the devil. The book makes my eyes even more wide open the ability to get people to be willing to harm another with violence. I am not trying to be alarmist but their is a percentage of people who want to use harm to further their cause. This book I hope for most of you even though it was boring during some parts of the book that it at least brought self awareness to a growing problem in society that people are being taken advantage of by using psychological means to manipulate and control people and groups. I want people to be mindful about manipulation and how easy a person fall prey to it.
Spencer you told a story that needed to be told I found some of the middle of the book to be hard to push through it felt almost like you are justifying what you did and you owe no justification. Unfortunately you where and are a victim of Sharon Gans and her cult. I am glad that you worked through everything in counseling. To learn to unwind 20 years of hard core manipulation speaks volumes of truly what kind of human being you are. The real work for you was unlearning what the manipulation did to you and for that you should be proud of yourself. The strength and courage it takes to put yourself out there after being a victim and allowing others to know so they don't become victims as well. Hold your head up high be proud for you have climbed a mountain to over come. The best parts is when the reader got to see you for who you truly are not the person who obsessed being some type of perfected robotic human being.
I was shocked at times at the cruelty of the silence as individuals where dehumanized chewed up spit out not only by Sharon but as a group. No one ever spoke up or stood up not once during any class or event. This behavior is disgusting and dehumanizing how anyone could allow themselves to be done this way is so sad.
My only criticism is that the writing and putting the story in more concrete way to be absorbed was at times over done on information that felt like filling pages to make the book thicker when the story came together more when the author talked more realistic about himself and the experience from his point of view. I thought to much crazy time was spent on Sharon her constant abuse was over highlighted. I think a few examples would have been enough and more time talking about the healing and recovery of your experience would make a far more interesting story. This is a 3.5 star book for me. I do recommend reading this people need knowledge and understanding of what they may be up against.
Thank you to Netgalley and Skyhorse Publishing for a free copy of the book for an honest review.
May 19, 2022
Book Review: Manhattan Cult - My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival
Author: Spencer Schneider
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing/Arcade
Publication Date: July 5, 2022
Review Date: May 18, 2022
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the blurb:
“We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child’s private school and sold you your brownstone. But you’d never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.”
Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult.
Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans.
“During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That’s what it’s like when you’re in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York’s educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.”
At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It’s about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.”
——
Whoa! What a terrifying and eye-opening story. This is one of the best expositions of cult life I’ve ever read. I imagine that it took a lot of courage for Mr. Schneider, the author, to write this exposé. Congratulations!
I highly, highly recommend this book. It was very engrossing, and easy reading. Apparently, anyone can find themselves in a cult, without realizing it for quite some time. The author laid out the whole process very clearly. Thank goodness he was able to wake up and extricate himself.
Thank you to Skyhorse Publishing for giving me access to this book, and best of luck to Mr. Schneider in his cult-free life.
This review will be posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.
#netgalley #manhattancult #spencerschneider #skyhorse #cults #sharongans
Author: Spencer Schneider
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing/Arcade
Publication Date: July 5, 2022
Review Date: May 18, 2022
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
From the blurb:
“We were invisible. We had to be. We took an oath of absolute secrecy. We never even told our immediate families who we were. We went about our lives in New York City. Just like you. We were your accountants, money managers, lawyers, executive recruiters, doctors. We owned your child’s private school and sold you your brownstone. But you’d never guess our secret lives, how we lived in a kind of silent terror and fervor. There were hundreds of us.”
Right under the noses of neighbors, clients, spouses, children, and friends, a secret society, simply called School—a cult of snared Manhattan professionals—has been led by the charismatic, sociopathic and dangerous leader Sharon Gans for decades. Spencer Schneider was recruited in the eighties and he stayed for more than twenty-three years as his life disintegrated, his self-esteem eroded, and he lined the pockets of Gans and her cult.
Cult members met twice weekly, though they never acknowledged one another outside of meetings or gatherings. In the name of inner development, they endured the horrors of mental, sexual, and physical abuse, forced labor, arranged marriages, swindled inheritances and savings, and systematic terrorizing. Some of them broke the law. All for Gans.
“During those years,” Schneider writes, “my world was School. That’s what it’s like when you’re in a cult, even one that preys on and caters to New York’s educated elite. This is my story of how I got entangled in School and how I got out.”
At its core, Manhattan Cult Story is a cautionary tale of how hundreds of well-educated, savvy, and prosperous New Yorkers became fervent followers of a brilliant but demented cult leader who posed as a teacher of ancient knowledge. It’s about double-lives, the power of group psychology, and how easy it is to be radicalized—all too relevant in today's atmosphere of conspiracy and ideologue worship.”
——
Whoa! What a terrifying and eye-opening story. This is one of the best expositions of cult life I’ve ever read. I imagine that it took a lot of courage for Mr. Schneider, the author, to write this exposé. Congratulations!
I highly, highly recommend this book. It was very engrossing, and easy reading. Apparently, anyone can find themselves in a cult, without realizing it for quite some time. The author laid out the whole process very clearly. Thank goodness he was able to wake up and extricate himself.
Thank you to Skyhorse Publishing for giving me access to this book, and best of luck to Mr. Schneider in his cult-free life.
This review will be posted on NetGalley and Goodreads.
#netgalley #manhattancult #spencerschneider #skyhorse #cults #sharongans
June 26, 2022
NetGalley ARC.
I buddy read this in a GR group and we all felt pretty meh about this one. "Abuse, Crime, Sex, and My Life inside a Secret Organization" sounds way more exciting than it is. Sharon Gans was charlatan and I could see through her from a mile away. I have a hard time understanding why people join these "organizations" but I guess from longing for a sense of community and belonging? But then they put up with so much garbage?! I'm not sure what I was looking for out of this but it was just dull. And I feel bad for saying that, this was this author's life for over 20 years. But it didn't hold my attention enough.
I buddy read this in a GR group and we all felt pretty meh about this one. "Abuse, Crime, Sex, and My Life inside a Secret Organization" sounds way more exciting than it is. Sharon Gans was charlatan and I could see through her from a mile away. I have a hard time understanding why people join these "organizations" but I guess from longing for a sense of community and belonging? But then they put up with so much garbage?! I'm not sure what I was looking for out of this but it was just dull. And I feel bad for saying that, this was this author's life for over 20 years. But it didn't hold my attention enough.
November 15, 2022
Trigger warnings: child sexual abuse (in the past), rape, cult, emotional abuse, homophobia, racism, bullying, misogyny, psychological manipulation, gaslighting, suicidal ideation
3.5 stars
Hmm. I feel terrible saying anything negative about this, given that it was the reality of Schneider's life for 23 years. But this somehow managed to feel kind of bland and repetitive while dealing with absolutely horrifying subject matter. Maybe it felt bland because it took Schneider the better part of 20 years to even realise that he was being taken advantage of when he was paying hundreds of dollars a month to a group that wouldn't let him tell people where he was for hours every week. That being said, I would have been out the second I had to stay up until like midnight on a school night or survive with anything less than 7 hours of sleep...
That being said, I appreciate that the group specifically targeted people who were emotionally fragile and that Schneider wasn't in a place to recognise what was happening before it was too late.
Add in strange pacing - the ending was particularly abrupt - and this was ultimately a bit of a mixed bag for me.
3.5 stars
Hmm. I feel terrible saying anything negative about this, given that it was the reality of Schneider's life for 23 years. But this somehow managed to feel kind of bland and repetitive while dealing with absolutely horrifying subject matter. Maybe it felt bland because it took Schneider the better part of 20 years to even realise that he was being taken advantage of when he was paying hundreds of dollars a month to a group that wouldn't let him tell people where he was for hours every week. That being said, I would have been out the second I had to stay up until like midnight on a school night or survive with anything less than 7 hours of sleep...
That being said, I appreciate that the group specifically targeted people who were emotionally fragile and that Schneider wasn't in a place to recognise what was happening before it was too late.
Add in strange pacing - the ending was particularly abrupt - and this was ultimately a bit of a mixed bag for me.
November 2, 2022
So for one of the first times in the history of me reading about cults I found one I had absolutely never heard of before. Led by a woman named Sharon Gans, I began to totally delve and discover “The School” otherwise known as the “The Work”. Spencer Schneider decided to crack this entire belief and education wide open in this book and what I can tell you is it’s incredibly shocking and eye opening. Seeing as this book was written post Covid-19 just shows how long and how powerful “The School” and Sharon Gans really was. Her reach was vast taking advantage and manipulating people all over the country. “The Work” was terribly destructive to marriages, sex lives, and families of members. Also as you read about this specific organization some things start to sound a bit familiar. Many of the things displayed in the Chuck Pahlaunick novel Fight Club were actually carried out at “The School” by Sharon Gans herself. Turning men against each other in an actual boxing ring and fighting in front of students to show how “evolved” they were in their teachings. This book really shows that these groups are everywhere and just because you haven’t seen a Netflix documentary about it doesn’t mean it’s not happening. Spencer writes this book fork an incredibly raw and honest place, there’s absolutely no way this was something easy for him to write. This is one of the most exposing and raw accounts of someone’s truth I have ever read. Spencer is a hell of a hero for being so open and honest and helping people escape very similar situations. If you love reading non fiction this is such a good place to start.
July 9, 2022
All I can say is OMG
It has to be among the hardest things to do - to write about (and admit) how you were duped into becoming a member of and believing in a cult. While many people would say “that couldn’t happen to me” it’s abundantly evident that it is absolutely possible that a clear thinking and intelligent person can follow the mad hatter down the rabbit hole and not realize it. There are many intelligent and successful people noted in this story including the author. While reading I often thought how could anyone keep going after the abuse and control exhibited during these years. But like Stockholm syndrome you begin to love and trust your captors. That seems to be the case here; believing that what you are hearing is true because the people saying/doing it love and care about you. in. That said - No one is perfect. We are human and fallible. All of us. Life is a learning experience. Turning that experience into help for others is an incredible way to learn to forgive yourself.
Thank goodness Spencer made it out. I hope the fact that he did sustains him even when doubts creep in. Godspeed Spencer.
It has to be among the hardest things to do - to write about (and admit) how you were duped into becoming a member of and believing in a cult. While many people would say “that couldn’t happen to me” it’s abundantly evident that it is absolutely possible that a clear thinking and intelligent person can follow the mad hatter down the rabbit hole and not realize it. There are many intelligent and successful people noted in this story including the author. While reading I often thought how could anyone keep going after the abuse and control exhibited during these years. But like Stockholm syndrome you begin to love and trust your captors. That seems to be the case here; believing that what you are hearing is true because the people saying/doing it love and care about you. in. That said - No one is perfect. We are human and fallible. All of us. Life is a learning experience. Turning that experience into help for others is an incredible way to learn to forgive yourself.
Thank goodness Spencer made it out. I hope the fact that he did sustains him even when doubts creep in. Godspeed Spencer.
June 29, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for this advance listener copy in exchange for my honest review.
This book was decent enough. It was a great story. Very interesting. I just wasn't really impressed with the delivery of the story. It was kind of dry and the narrator didn't do it any justice. With a memoir like this one, I prefer the actual author to read their own story. I find it much more authentic this way. I like to hear from the author what they experienced. The person that narrated this story was not the greatest narrator and it took away from the story. The narrator was a little monotonous and just not exciting. However, it was a really interesting case. I'm very fascinated by cults and this one was quite shocking. I had never heard of this case before, so I immersed myself in it and finished it in one sitting. But my recommendation would be to read the print copy and avoid the audiobook.
I would give the book itself 4 stars, but I have to give the audiobook 3 stars. The narrator is what ruined it for me.
This book was decent enough. It was a great story. Very interesting. I just wasn't really impressed with the delivery of the story. It was kind of dry and the narrator didn't do it any justice. With a memoir like this one, I prefer the actual author to read their own story. I find it much more authentic this way. I like to hear from the author what they experienced. The person that narrated this story was not the greatest narrator and it took away from the story. The narrator was a little monotonous and just not exciting. However, it was a really interesting case. I'm very fascinated by cults and this one was quite shocking. I had never heard of this case before, so I immersed myself in it and finished it in one sitting. But my recommendation would be to read the print copy and avoid the audiobook.
I would give the book itself 4 stars, but I have to give the audiobook 3 stars. The narrator is what ruined it for me.
July 25, 2022
Spencer Schneider’s account in Manhattan Cult Story is strange and fascinating at the same time. The use of the term “school” was a clever way to distract from the group’s indoctrination into a cult. I have some knowledge about cults from growing up in the Jim Jones era and have always been curious about how people blindly follow someone. In the book, Schneider gives a detailed list of the criteria used for recruiting, which explains a lot. The group’s premise reminded me of Etiquette -Charm school in the beginning, but I soon learned that this is not that type of school.
This is a book that will stay with me for a while because I have unanswered questions. The thought of this group and other cults still in existence today is terrifying to me. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn more about cults.
3.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley and Skyhorse Publishing for providing me with a complementary electronic copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving this review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a book that will stay with me for a while because I have unanswered questions. The thought of this group and other cults still in existence today is terrifying to me. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn more about cults.
3.5 stars rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley and Skyhorse Publishing for providing me with a complementary electronic copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving this review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 1, 2022
This was an interesting story I have always been fascinated with cults and this one was unique in that it was almost a secret society. If you follow my reviews you know I like a book that makes me do more research and wow this one is a weird one and it didn’t end with the “school” people from the “school” went on to start different cults.
Narration by Austin Rising was good but at times a bit monotone.
Sometimes the pacing of the book was distracting but still an interesting story but I wish it had delved deeper into the workings of the cult.
3 stars
I received this audiobook from the publisher Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
Narration by Austin Rising was good but at times a bit monotone.
Sometimes the pacing of the book was distracting but still an interesting story but I wish it had delved deeper into the workings of the cult.
3 stars
I received this audiobook from the publisher Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
January 23, 2023
Cults really do seem to be abusive relationships on a larger scale, with more people crushed under the thumb of the wicked leader and more flying monkeys to do the abuser’s bidding. It’s impossible to not take notice of how identical the tactics are, including the early preying upon vulnerability. Manhattan Cult Story both intrigued and terrified me because of this.
It was easy to see how the author was lured into “School” and why he found it so difficult to leave. While stories investigating cults are important, this firsthand account allows readers to witness exactly how the manipulative dynamics play out.
The way human beings are so easily influenced and so wholly unaware of their propensity to be influenced is terrifying. Manhattan Cult Story paints a vivid picture of that true horror at play.
I am immensely grateful to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for my copy. All opinions are my own.
It was easy to see how the author was lured into “School” and why he found it so difficult to leave. While stories investigating cults are important, this firsthand account allows readers to witness exactly how the manipulative dynamics play out.
The way human beings are so easily influenced and so wholly unaware of their propensity to be influenced is terrifying. Manhattan Cult Story paints a vivid picture of that true horror at play.
I am immensely grateful to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for my copy. All opinions are my own.
June 11, 2022
A good memoir in that I learned about a cult I had no idea existed, it was interesting to learn about the 'inside,' but overall this wasn't written in an engaging way. There was a lot of information presented about the cult from the recruiting phase thru to the entrenched and desire to get out phases and I appreciated the author's story but I didn't find myself gravitating towards the book. I think for someone finding themselves in a similar situation (or before they get to this situation) and just for more information about cults this is would be a helpful book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Skyhorse Publishing for the chance to read the advanced ebook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and Skyhorse Publishing for the chance to read the advanced ebook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Read
July 11, 2022If you’ve ever lost someone to a cult, and wondered why? How? This book is for you. Spencer details the ease in which a smart, savvy, personable individual can be lured in. At times shocking, ludicrous, and yes, even funny, Manhattan Cult Story definitely delivers. I’m not usually one to settle in with a non-fiction book, but this grabbed my attention and held it.
March 6, 2022
I thought this was excellent and so compelling! A true story of someone caught up for 20+ years in a cult of New York elite, who had his life defined by and controlled by the group, and what eventually led him to leave. There were a lot of people and I had a hard time keeping track of all of them, especially the less central people to the story, and some things that went unanswered that I felt would have made sense to be answered, but overall a fascinating read.
July 7, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook in exchange for a review.
Growing up in NYC, I have never heard about cults in the city. However, it does seem very likely that there are/were cults within the Big Apple, which is why the title of the book piqued my interest. Manhattan Cult Story is about Spencer’s real-life experience with a cult that refers to themselves as, “the School”. Spencer was an up-and-coming lawyer and was introduced to the cult through an acquaintance. At the beginning of his experience, Spencer was skeptical and didn’t show any interest. He was only drawn in after setbacks in his life. He recounts his 23-year experience in detail throughout the book. He shares how the “School” recruits new members, targeting the vulnerable in the city. He also describes the classes and the ridiculous experiences between his teachers and classmates at the “School”.
I really enjoy listening to nonfiction audiobooks because of the narration and this book was no different. The narrator was captivating and uses distinct voices to differentiate between characters. His voice for Sharon was great. It made me hate and scared of that character at the same time. The pacing of the book was perfect. (Note: I do tend to listen to audiobooks at 2x the speed and critique the pace based on this.) He was clear and I can articulate each word throughout the listen. (Sometimes at 2x the speed, audiobooks can be hard to listen to – which means I must move it to 1.5x speed, but this one I was able to understand every word at 2x!).
One thing to note is that this book doesn’t fully follow a linear storyline, which makes sense because the author is trying to connect similar topics to one chapter. For example, you have one chapter dedicated to recruitment, so all the stories were from various time periods but share the same theme of recruitment. This may confuse readers who do prefer linear timelines, especially in a nonfiction book. However, I thought it was easy to follow and fully captivating.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about cults.
Growing up in NYC, I have never heard about cults in the city. However, it does seem very likely that there are/were cults within the Big Apple, which is why the title of the book piqued my interest. Manhattan Cult Story is about Spencer’s real-life experience with a cult that refers to themselves as, “the School”. Spencer was an up-and-coming lawyer and was introduced to the cult through an acquaintance. At the beginning of his experience, Spencer was skeptical and didn’t show any interest. He was only drawn in after setbacks in his life. He recounts his 23-year experience in detail throughout the book. He shares how the “School” recruits new members, targeting the vulnerable in the city. He also describes the classes and the ridiculous experiences between his teachers and classmates at the “School”.
I really enjoy listening to nonfiction audiobooks because of the narration and this book was no different. The narrator was captivating and uses distinct voices to differentiate between characters. His voice for Sharon was great. It made me hate and scared of that character at the same time. The pacing of the book was perfect. (Note: I do tend to listen to audiobooks at 2x the speed and critique the pace based on this.) He was clear and I can articulate each word throughout the listen. (Sometimes at 2x the speed, audiobooks can be hard to listen to – which means I must move it to 1.5x speed, but this one I was able to understand every word at 2x!).
One thing to note is that this book doesn’t fully follow a linear storyline, which makes sense because the author is trying to connect similar topics to one chapter. For example, you have one chapter dedicated to recruitment, so all the stories were from various time periods but share the same theme of recruitment. This may confuse readers who do prefer linear timelines, especially in a nonfiction book. However, I thought it was easy to follow and fully captivating.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about cults.
July 14, 2022
Really enjoyed this read. I've been known to get interested in cults: how they work, what makes them work, the enigmatic and charismatic people who somehow manage to maneuver their followers into positions most of us would never dream of putting ourselves in. It's always fascinating, and this autobiographical journey through one was no different. It was interesting to be able to follow through the steps of sort of brainwashing, how it was done, and how it can be so difficult to leave. I would definitely recommend this one if you're a fan of the sort of genre it's written in. Very well put together.
October 21, 2024
Spencer’s story has a way of unfolding that helps you deeply understand why and how someone becomes entrenched in a cult, how difficult it is to separate that cult from your identity, and how manipulative cult leaders can truly be. He does this in a way that does not exploit his own story or the stories of others, but still informs the reader of the atrocious extent to which cult members will go to dominate, manipulate, and control not just a person, but the human spirit. His story is one of triumph for the truest loyalty one should have, their own belief in themselves, and the belief that each of us are the only true Teller of our tales.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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