Don't Call It a Cult

The publisher provided me with the opportunity to read this in exchange for providing feedback. (via Edelweiss+)

4.5 stars. I've watched a couple of the documentaries on NXIVM (Seduced, The Vow. Side note: I recommend watching The Vow first lol.) and still found this to be a good read. It was well written and provided more information that was new to me.

This is a fantastic companion document to read alongside the Sky documentary The Vow about the Nxivm organisation. This included extra content and information that wasn't discussed explicitly in the TV documentary such as Allison Mack's and Lauren Salzman's deeper connections and influences in the DOS element of the organisation. As well as the wider and more damning influences of the Bronfman sisters and their roles in the organisation as a whole.

I was also shocked to learn about Keith Ranieres promiscuity within the organisation and his sexual relationship with Camila who was a minor at the time. This organisation has been so interesting to learn about through the documentary released onto Sky in 2020. I was fascinated to learn how men and women were indoctrinated into this organisation and why they went to the extent of allowing themselves to be branded and to be controlled by Raniere and his teachings.

This book was very informative and well researched. The author had a very close relationship with key members that were whistleblowers on the organisation like Sarah Edmondson. This made the book feel more authentic and closer to the victims and their testimonies which I found powerful. I really enjoyed this Non-Fiction and if you are interested in learning more about Nxivm, I would highly recommend picking this book up!

Thank you to author Sarah Berman,Steerforth Press and Edelweiss for a free downloadable ebook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.