Have you ever wondered about the goings on of a cult and why somebody might be enticed to join one? Then I have the book for you.
Peddling Doomsday by Petra Jacob tells the story of Deirdre, a woman who feelings of displacement lead her to join a cult known as the Center. Myra, the cult leader, claims that humanity is in danger and she needs an army to fight the war. Once a member of the Center, Deirdre finds out not all is as it seems to be. Deirdre soon questions where the belief ends, and delusion begins.
This is a very curious story. I started reading with sorrow for Deirdre as it was apparent she was somewhat of a lost soul. However, this was a book where the plot intrigued me more than any character: Why the rituals? What is the purpose of the Centre? I had so many questions because a lot of information was presented in this book. Unfortunately, these questions were an indicator of a sometimes complex and not so easily understandable story.
Albeit complex at times, Peddling Doomsday made me think a lot. There were a number of different personalities in this story and the characters came from a variety of backgrounds. This was an interesting look into the different people who join cults. The story also had me thinking about cults on a deeper level. The two definitions of a cult (from the Cambridge dictionary) are as follows:
- a system of religious veneration and devotion directed towards a particular figure or object.
- a person or thing that is popular or fashionable among a particular group or section of society.
Aren’t we all part of a cult in some way, controlled by other forces such as already established religions and the media, for example?
Touching again on the complexity of Peddling Doomsday, some readers may find it difficult to grasp exactly what this book is. For me, that was one of the good things about it. Peddling Doomsday could be based in the past, present or future, be based on real-life happenings, supernatural forces or science fiction – you can decide.
Overall, I liked this book because it made me think. If you have an interest in psychology and how the mind works, I think you will enjoy it too.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Joyful Antidotes 
I actually find cults very interesting so I think I would probably enjoy this!
Yup there is something intriguing about them.
this seems pretty interesting!
It certainly was! A bit different from my usual reads.
I’m not really into cult books but I might still have to give it a go x
http://www.ofbeautyandnothingness.co.uk
It’s a really interesting fictional account of what life in a cult might be like. I hope you enjoy it!