Investigative journalist Sarah Berman has written an absolutely gripping, thorough, unflinching look at NXIVM, Keith Raniere's cult that masqueraded as a personal empowerment program before the criminal activities of Raniere and some key associates brought it all crashing down. Berman doesn't take a strictly linear approach to the narrative but smoothly guides the reader through themes and individuals' stories that illustrate Raniere and NXIVM's most insidious and disturbing practices.

Even if you've already listened to the CBC podcast and watched both documentary miniseries, Berman's book will improve your understanding of the NXIVM case immeasurably. Her attention to detail clarifies key events and interpersonal dynamics and her journalistic distance gives her what feels like a more clear-sighted view into the players. She approaches former cult members with empathy and doesn't downplay what they went through, but she also doesn't pick out heroes for us.