For almost two decades, NXIVM headman Keith Raniere programmed his followers using psychological manipulation under the guise of self-improvement and personal empowerment. With almost 20,000 people affected and more than $100 million dollars poured into the organization over 20 years, "The Vanguard" was one of the craftiest cult leaders in a generation. Using a variety of tactics to keep Nxians contained and controlled, NXIVM blurred the lines between self-help and self-destruction, and is a cautionary tale about the ability of a charismatic and twisted opportunist to prey upon the emotionally vulnerable. Discover the chilling world of cults in Dangerous Devotions: Cults in Society, a gripping five-book series that explores the secrets of history's most infamous cults through real stories and extensive research. Understand the motives of charismatic leaders and their followers and learn why these dangerous organizations arise and eventually crumble.