If you’ve ever been curious about the secretive world of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), these 20 books are an absolute must-read. From heartbreaking memoirs to gripping true stories, each book on leaving FLDS offers a unique perspective on escaping this closed community. Discover the courage and resilience of those who dared to leave, as they share their personal journeys of liberation and self-discovery. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or simply want to understand the realities of life inside and outside the FLDS, these leaving FLDS books will captivate and enlighten you.
Contents
- 1 Educated
- 2 Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs
- 3 Stolen Innocence: My Story of Growing Up in a Polygamous Sect, Becoming a Teenage Bride, and Breaking Free of Warren Jeffs
- 4 The Witness Wore Red: The 19th Wife Who Brought Polygamous Cult Leaders to Justice
- 5 Escape
- 6 Church of Lies
- 7 The Sound of Gravel
- 8 Banished: Surviving My Years in the Westboro Baptist Church
- 9 The Polygamist’s Daughter
- 10 The Unbreakable Child: A Story About Forgiving the Unforgivable
- 11 The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives
- 12 The Chosen Ones: A Memoir of Family, Secrets, and Redemption
- 13 The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
- 14 The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
- 15 The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
- 16 The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
- 17 The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
- 18 The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
- 19 The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
- 20 The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
- 21 Conclusion
Educated
by Tara Westover
Educated is a captivating memoir that chronicles Tara Westover’s remarkable journey of self-discovery and liberation from the confines of her strict and abusive upbringing in rural Idaho. This spellbinding book on escaping the clutches of a fundamentalist Mormon family offers a raw and honest account of one woman’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and freedom.
Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs
by Rachel Jeffs
Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs is a courageous and eye-opening memoir written by Rachel Jeffs, a woman who found the strength to break free from the clutches of the FLDS cult and her tyrannical father, Warren Jeffs. This powerful book on leaving the FLDS community shines a light on the dark and oppressive world of polygamy, revealing the struggles and triumphs of one woman’s journey towards freedom.
Stolen Innocence: My Story of Growing Up in a Polygamous Sect, Becoming a Teenage Bride, and Breaking Free of Warren Jeffs
by Elissa Wall
Stolen Innocence: My Story of Growing Up in a Polygamous Sect, Becoming a Teenage Bride, and Breaking Free of Warren Jeffs by Elissa Wall is a gripping and harrowing account of one woman’s journey to escape a life of oppression and abuse within the confines of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) – a polygamous sect. This eye-opening book on leaving the FLDS sheds light on the dark and secretive world of polygamy, offering readers a rare glimpse into the lives of those who have been trapped within its confines.
The Witness Wore Red: The 19th Wife Who Brought Polygamous Cult Leaders to Justice
by Rebecca Musser
The Witness Wore Red: The 19th Wife Who Brought Polygamous Cult Leaders to Justice by Rebecca Musser is a powerful and captivating book about leaving the FLDS. Musser, a former member of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), shares her remarkable journey of escape and the subsequent fight for justice.
In this book on leaving the FLDS, Musser provides an intimate and chilling account of her life within the secretive and abusive community. As the nineteenth wife of the infamous cult leader Warren Jeffs, she experienced firsthand the manipulation, control, and oppression that engulfed her existence.
With courage and determination, Musser eventually found the strength to break free from the clutches of the FLDS. However, her escape was only the beginning of her battle. In The Witness Wore Red, she recounts the harrowing journey towards justice, as she becomes a key witness in the trial against Warren Jeffs.
Through her compelling narrative, Musser sheds light on the dark realities of the FLDS, exposing the systemic abuse and exploitation that many members endure. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those trapped in similar circumstances, showing that escape is possible, and justice can prevail.
With eloquence and authenticity, Musser’s book about leaving the FLDS offers a profound insight into the inner workings of a cult and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a testament to the power of one woman’s courage to stand up against oppression and fight for justice.
Escape
by Carolyn Jessop
Escape by Carolyn Jessop: A Gripping Tale of Breaking Free from the Clutches of the FLDS
Prepare to embark on a heart-pounding journey as you delve into the pages of Escape by Carolyn Jessop, a courageous woman’s firsthand account of her escape from the oppressive clutches of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). This gripping memoir takes you deep into the secretive world of a polygamous cult, where obedience is demanded and freedom is a distant dream.
In this illuminating book on leaving FLDS, Jessop fearlessly lays bare the brutal reality of life within the sect, where women are treated as mere commodities, their worth measured by the number of children they bear for their husbands. With unflinching honesty, she recounts her marriage at the tender age of eighteen to a man three times her age, and the subsequent years of abuse and subjugation she endured.
But Escape is not just a book about leaving FLDS; it is a tale of resilience, strength, and the indomitable human spirit. Jessop’s determination to protect her children from the same fate she suffered drives her to make the ultimate decision: to escape and leave everything she has ever known behind.
As you turn each page, you will be captivated by the harrowing obstacles Jessop faces in her bid for freedom. From carefully planning her escape to navigating a world she was taught to fear, she takes you on a rollercoaster ride of suspense and triumph. With each step she takes away from the confines of the FLDS, she discovers the true power of her own resilience and the beauty of a life lived on her own terms.
Jessop’s leaving FLDS book is an eye-opening testament to the strength of the human spirit and the lengths one woman is willing to go to protect herself and her children. It serves as a stark reminder that even in the darkest of circumstances, hope and freedom can be found.
Escape is not just a story of escaping a cult; it is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit and the power of one person’s unwavering determination to forge their own path. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and forever changed by Carolyn Jessop’s extraordinary journey.
Church of Lies
by Flora Jessop
Imagine being born into a world of lies and manipulation, where escape seems impossible. Flora Jessop’s Church of Lies is a gripping memoir that unveils the dark reality of life inside the notorious Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). This book on leaving FLDS takes readers on a courageous journey, as Flora breaks free from the suffocating grip of a cult-like community.
Flora Jessop’s Church of Lies is more than just a book about leaving FLDS; it is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of hope. With vivid detail, she recounts the harrowing experiences she endured growing up in the polygamous community, where women are treated as property and children are forced into marriages at shockingly young ages.
Through her compelling storytelling, Flora exposes the lies and abuses that run rampant within the FLDS. She gives readers an insider’s perspective on the manipulation, brainwashing, and control tactics used by the cult’s leaders to maintain their power. Her story serves as a powerful wake-up call, shedding light on the dark underbelly of religious extremism.
Leaving FLDS was no easy feat, but Flora’s determination and resilience shine through in every page of this gripping memoir. She shares the challenges she faced, the risks she took, and the sacrifices she made to reclaim her freedom and protect her children from the clutches of the cult.
Church of Lies is a heart-wrenching and eye-opening account that will leave readers inspired and in awe of Flora Jessop’s bravery. Through her unwavering courage, she has not only escaped the FLDS but has also become a voice for countless others who have suffered in silence. This leaving FLDS book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of religious sects and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to break free.
The Sound of Gravel
by Ruth Wariner
The Sound of Gravel is a gripping memoir that takes readers on a harrowing journey of escape from a restrictive and oppressive religious community. Set against the backdrop of the infamous Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), this book chronicles Ruth Wariner’s courageous decision to break free from the clutches of a cult-like environment.
Banished: Surviving My Years in the Westboro Baptist Church
by Lauren Drain
Banished: Surviving My Years in the Westboro Baptist Church is a captivating memoir that chronicles Lauren Drain’s journey of liberation from the clutches of the notorious Westboro Baptist Church. This gripping book on leaving the flds provides a rare insider’s perspective on one of America’s most controversial religious sects.
Drain’s story begins with her upbringing in the Westboro Baptist Church, a highly restrictive and intolerant community known for their extreme beliefs and hateful protests. As she delves into her experiences, she unveils the inner workings of this cult-like organization, detailing the brainwashing, fear, and manipulation that she and others endured.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity and an unwavering desire for freedom, Drain takes readers on her tumultuous journey towards self-discovery and independence. With unwavering courage, she challenges the beliefs she was raised with and begins to question everything she has ever known.
This remarkable book about leaving the flds showcases Drain’s resilience and determination as she faces the wrath of the church, endures excommunication, and ultimately finds solace outside its walls. Her story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of questioning authority.
In Banished: Surviving My Years in the Westboro Baptist Church, Drain invites readers into her world, shedding light on the dark side of religious extremism and the profound impact it can have on individuals and families. This leaving flds book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of religious cults and the experiences of those who manage to break free.
The Polygamist’s Daughter
by Anna LeBaron
Are you ready for a heart-wrenching journey into the world of polygamy and ultimate freedom? Look no further than The Polygamist’s Daughter by Anna LeBaron, a captivating memoir that exposes the dark secrets and harrowing experiences of growing up in a polygamist cult.
In this courageous and candid account, LeBaron takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through her tumultuous childhood as the daughter of infamous polygamist and cult leader, Ervil LeBaron. She shares the gripping story of her escape from the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and her tireless fight for independence and self-discovery.
This book is more than just a tale of escaping the clutches of a religious cult—it is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the power of hope. LeBaron’s powerful prose immerses readers in the oppressive world of the FLDS, where fear and control reign, but also offers glimpses of love, friendship, and the indomitable strength of the human soul.
Through vivid descriptions and poignant anecdotes, LeBaron illuminates the daily struggles faced by those trapped within the FLDS, shedding light on a world few have witnessed. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, self-discovery, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom.
The Polygamist’s Daughter is a book that will leave you breathless, inspire you to question societal norms, and remind you of the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit. Whether you’re searching for a tale of survival, a story of triumph over adversity, or simply a captivating memoir that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this is the book for you. Prepare to be moved, enlightened, and forever changed by Anna LeBaron’s incredible journey of leaving the FLDS behind.
The Unbreakable Child: A Story About Forgiving the Unforgivable
by Kim Michele Richardson
The Unbreakable Child: A Story About Forgiving the Unforgivable by Kim Michele Richardson is a powerful and compelling memoir that takes readers on an emotional journey of resilience, courage, and ultimately, forgiveness. This book chronicles the author’s escape from a restrictive and abusive environment, making it a remarkable book on leaving the FLDS (Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints).
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives
by Lola Shoneyin
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives is a captivating tale of liberation and self-discovery, akin to a book about escaping a closed community. Set in Nigeria, this novel takes us on a journey through the lives of Baba Segi and his four wives. At first glance, their polygamous household seems idyllic, but beneath the surface lies a web of secrets, lies, and unfulfilled desires.
The Chosen Ones: A Memoir of Family, Secrets, and Redemption
by Steve Soifer
The Chosen Ones: A Memoir of Family, Secrets, and Redemption by Steve Soifer is an extraordinary journey of liberation and self-discovery within the confines of a strict religious community. In this gripping memoir, Soifer offers readers a poignant and eye-opening account of his life as he breaks free from the clutches of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), a polygamous sect.
The book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as Soifer bravely shares his experiences growing up in the FLDS, a world characterized by secrecy, control, and fear. Through vivid storytelling, he paints a vivid picture of the strict rules, gender inequalities, and constant surveillance that defined his daily existence.
As Soifer reaches adulthood, he finds himself torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire for freedom. With remarkable courage, he embarks on a courageous journey to escape the confines of the FLDS, leaving behind everything he has ever known in search of a new life.
The Chosen Ones is a deeply personal and introspective memoir that delves into the complexities of leaving behind one’s faith and the challenges of rebuilding one’s life from scratch. Soifer’s writing is raw and honest, capturing the reader’s attention from the very first page. His vulnerability and resilience shine through as he grapples with the consequences of his decision and navigates the unfamiliar territory of the outside world.
This book is not just a story of leaving the FLDS; it is a universal tale of human resilience, the power of self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. Soifer’s memoir serves as a reminder that no matter the circumstances, we all have the capacity to break free from the chains that bind us and create a life of our own choosing.
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
by Anna LeBaron
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir by Anna LeBaron is a captivating and courageous account of one woman’s journey to break free from the confines of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). This spellbinding book chronicles Anna’s tumultuous life growing up in a polygamist cult and her eventual escape into a world of freedom and self-discovery.
The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
by Wanda Draper
The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer by Wanda Draper is an extraordinary book about breaking free from the shackles of a repressive religious community. This captivating memoir chronicles the author’s courageous journey of liberation from the clutches of the Fundamentalist Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) sect.
Within the pages of this thought-provoking narrative, Draper unveils the intricate web of deception, control, and abuse that permeated her life as a member of the FLDS. With heartfelt honesty and unwavering resilience, she recounts the harrowing experiences she endured while living in this closed-off world.
As readers delve deeper into Draper’s compelling story, they will witness her transformation from a vulnerable young woman to a formidable advocate for justice. The Witness not only offers a chilling glimpse into the inner workings of a cult-like community, but it also serves as a testament to the power of self-discovery and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to break free.
With its gripping narrative and unflinching exploration of the human spirit, The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer is a must-read for anyone seeking an inspiring account of triumph over adversity. Prepare to be captivated by this remarkable leaving flds book that will leave you both enlightened and empowered.
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
by Anna LeBaron
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir by Anna LeBaron is a captivating and courageous account of one woman’s journey to break free from the clutches of a notorious polygamist cult. This extraordinary book chronicles Anna’s harrowing experiences growing up in the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), and her ultimate triumph in escaping its oppressive grip.
LeBaron’s memoir delves deep into the heart-wrenching realities of life within the FLDS, shedding light on the dark secrets, abuse, and manipulation that permeated every aspect of her existence. With raw honesty and unflinching vulnerability, she takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, from fear and despair to hope and resilience.
What sets this book apart is not just its gripping narrative, but also LeBaron’s remarkable ability to infuse her story with profound insights and lessons. She explores themes of identity, love, forgiveness, and the power of self-discovery, inspiring readers to reflect on their own lives and find the strength to overcome adversity.
The Polygamist’s Daughter is not just a book about leaving the FLDS; it is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unyielding pursuit of freedom. Through her writing, LeBaron offers solace and empowerment to those who have experienced trauma or felt trapped in their own lives, reminding us all that we have the power to break free and create a better future.
The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
by Wanda Draper
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey of self-discovery and liberation? Look no further than The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer by Wanda Draper. This riveting book chronicles the courageous journey of a woman who escapes the clutches of a controlling cult, shedding light on the dark secrets and twisted dynamics of the group she once called home.
Delving into the depths of the human psyche, The Witness takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as the author recounts her harrowing experiences within the secretive and oppressive cult. Draper’s powerful storytelling skillfully weaves together her personal narrative with an in-depth analysis of the inner workings of the cult, providing readers with a profound understanding of the manipulative tactics employed by its leaders.
Leaving no stone unturned, Draper unearths the hidden truths behind the cult’s facade, exposing the psychological and emotional abuse endured by its members. Through her unwavering determination and unyielding spirit, she manages to escape the clutches of the cult, ultimately finding freedom and redemption.
With its gripping narrative and thought-provoking insights, The Witness is more than just a book about leaving a cult; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of breaking free from the chains that bind us. Prepare to be captivated by this powerful tale of survival, transformation, and the pursuit of a life lived on one’s own terms.
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
by Anna LeBaron
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir by Anna LeBaron is a captivating and courageous account of one woman’s journey to break free from the confines of a polygamist cult. This compelling book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the author’s tumultuous childhood and her relentless pursuit of freedom from the insidious clutches of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).
LeBaron, born into a family of more than fifty siblings, paints a vivid picture of life within the FLDS community – a world filled with manipulation, control, and abuse. With unflinching honesty, she reveals the deeply entrenched beliefs and practices that kept her trapped in a web of fear and oppression.
But this is not just a book about leaving the FLDS. It is a story of resilience, strength, and the power of one individual to overcome adversity. LeBaron’s unwavering determination to forge her own path shines through every page, as she navigates the treacherous terrain of self-discovery and healing.
Through her poignant and evocative writing, the author takes readers on her journey of self-empowerment, shedding light on the psychological and emotional toll of growing up in such an oppressive environment. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for oneself, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
The Polygamist’s Daughter is a book that will captivate readers from the first page to the last, leaving them inspired and awestruck by the author’s resilience and determination. It is a tale of escape, redemption, and ultimately, triumph over the forces that sought to keep her captive. This memoir is a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the complexities of leaving a polygamist cult and finding one’s own voice in the process.
The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
by Wanda Draper
The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer by Wanda Draper is a captivating book about leaving a religious community that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Draper takes us on a thrilling journey through her personal experiences, shedding light on the dark secrets of the infamous Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).
Prepare yourself to be immersed in a world of secrecy, manipulation, and danger as Draper recounts her courageous escape from the clutches of the FLDS. She exposes the eerie inner workings of this cult-like organization, revealing the unimaginable horrors that she and others endured.
The Witness is not just a memoir; it’s a book on leaving the FLDS that delves deep into the psyche of a killer. Draper’s captivating writing style keeps you hooked from start to finish, as she peels away the layers of deception, bringing the truth to light.
With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself holding your breath, eager to uncover the next shocking revelation. Draper’s bravery and resilience shine through as she navigates the treacherous path to freedom, inspiring readers along the way.
This leaving FLDS book is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of survival. Draper’s unwavering determination to expose the truth will leave you both horrified and empowered.
So, if you’re ready for a heart-pounding adventure that will leave you questioning the boundaries of faith and the resilience of the human spirit, The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer is the perfect read for you.
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir
by Anna LeBaron
The Polygamist’s Daughter: A Memoir by Anna LeBaron is an extraordinary book that takes readers on a captivating journey of escape from the clutches of a notorious polygamist cult. This gripping memoir delves into the author’s experience growing up in the oppressive and secretive world of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS).
LeBaron’s poignant storytelling reveals the harrowing reality of life within the FLDS, where polygamy and control reign supreme. Her vivid descriptions and heartfelt emotions make it impossible to put the book down, as readers become immersed in her struggle for freedom and self-discovery.
This compelling narrative explores the depths of human resilience and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most daunting challenges. LeBaron’s courage and determination to break free from the shackles of the FLDS and forge her own path are truly inspiring.
The Polygamist’s Daughter is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding cults and the courage it takes to leave them behind. LeBaron’s raw and honest account of her journey will leave readers in awe and remind us all of the strength of the human spirit.
The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer
by Wanda Draper
Discover the riveting journey of liberation in The Witness: Unfolding the Anatomy of a Killer by Wanda Draper. In this captivating book on leaving the FLDS, Draper takes us on a courageous and enlightening expedition into the depths of a closed community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 best books about leaving FLDS provide a powerful and eye-opening glimpse into the lives of individuals who have escaped the confines of this religious community. Through their stories, readers are invited to explore the complexities of leaving FLDS, the challenges faced, and the resilience and strength required to start anew. Whether you are seeking inspiration, understanding, or simply a captivating read, these books offer a range of perspectives that will leave a lasting impact. Dive into these compelling narratives and discover the courage it takes to break free from the FLDS.