I had a mixed experience with this book. The intro with the passing of her father and the concept of winding two experiences into a book which needs to reflect their stories and their passion for the cause was very clever. The layout was organized, but the middle section from the research to the travelling seemed a bit repetitive and slow, the specific details were the most impactful. The end was my personal favourite section, as it acted as a self-aware reflection after the cult and the realisation that it wasnt normal, that was - for me - the most powerful section and worth the read for that alone.

I listened to the audio version of this book and thought it was really interesting even if it did jump at certain points.

I think it’s a very realistic portrayal of a cult; there’s no graphic details on torture like in certain fictions on similar cults.

I loved the research she done on the history of how her family ended up in the brethren. I also loved that she touched on points of feminism and how society views religious people.

I think if I was to read the physical copy I might not have finished it however I did find myself wanting to listen to more of this book whenever I had the chance. So I think I’d definitely recommend the audio version!

frogggirl2's review

4.0
challenging informative sad medium-paced

This is a well written, interesting and informative nonfiction work which simultaneously balances profound questions of religion, purpose and religiosity with a personal exploration of family and loss.
challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
emotional informative reflective medium-paced
informative reflective medium-paced
dark emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective slow-paced
dark emotional reflective slow-paced

That was a chilling, complex read for a holiday 😂 My friend and I are very interested by indoctrinated people and this time was no exception. Rebecca Stott describes everything in an eloquent way and I could see many of the visuals before me. The photos were excellent too.
Ada Louise being sent to an asylum for years due to her epilepsy and ‘wilfulness’ boggled my mind, as did the Brethren regulations and rules 😫
 
If anyone is looking for a book about cults, this is definitely one to try out 🙈

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challenging dark emotional informative inspiring reflective sad slow-paced

I have waited years to read this book. It was worth the wait. Thoughtful, thought provoking, honest and endearing. A gift to anyone reflecting on religious communities.
informative medium-paced