Update with CW: child abuse, gun violence, psychological/emotional/sexual abuse, sexism, misogyny, slut shaming, suicide

Well that made for a challenging but gripping read.

When reading about cults the two elements that strike me as the most interesting are the levels of control that leaders have over their communities, and the blind faith and devotion practiced by their followers. This book was a window into how control is exerted and devotion obtained. The threats, lies and deception used to control members in this book was sinister in nature and was aimed at supporting Father John's own narcissistic agenda. Even though, due to the dual timeline, I knew the outcome of the showdown between the police and the Holy Church of the Lord's Legion, I was still filled with a sense of dread whilst reading. The way that the girls were treated made me angry and uncomfortable and I was concerned for their safety throughout the entire novel.

We all search for meaning and purpose. So when the people in the story felt that they had found their 'place in life' under the leadership of this 'messiah-like' being I was overwhelmed with sadness. It must have been quite soul destroying for those whose elation and joy turned to confusion, disillusionment and disappointment as the truth was laid bare. I can't imagine the terror they must have felt at the thought of their loved ones being hurt for their own disobedience or dissenting opinion.

This story unfolded quite slowly but I don't think it would have been quite as impactful had it moved more quickly. We as Readers needed to follow Moonbeam's journey as she slowly began to awaken to the truth of her community and the lies it was built on. We also needed to see the path she followed to get to the point where she could finally reveal what happened during the raid.

An interesting and well written novel. ( )

Wow. This was an excellent read. The world building was fantastic. Seeing everything through Moonbeam's eyes was gripping especially her memories of her time in the cult. This is a book I would recommend to everyone especially those that want to what it is like living in a cult. ( )

Riveting and difficult to put down narrative from the point of view of a cult survivor. I'm not sure if this spoke to me so powerfully because I was a child in Texas when the Branch Davidian massacre took place, or if it's just really great writing, but if you are looking for a page turner with thoughtful psychological details, this book has it all.

Advanced reader's copy provided by Edelweiss. ( )

I must admit this started out rather chaotic and I had a hard time really getting into it. However, as I continued and was able to figure out what was happening and where it was going, I really got into it and ended up very much liking this story. It goes back and forth from after the fire to before the fire and you learn just enough to keep you wanting more and more. Even when you realize what was really going on "before" you still can't look away. I definitely will be recommending this one, it surprised me how much I enjoyed it. ( )

By giving this 2 stars I’m not saying it isn’t good. It’s a very engaging read with a constant feeling of ‘what’s going to happen next?’
I’m just left thinking that there wasn’t much to it, a bit like a fast food burger - immediately satisfying but without long term positive effects. ( )