Introduction

After seven years of faithfully following her spiritual teacher, Renee Linnell finally realized she was in a cult and had been severely brainwashed. But how did that happen to someone like her? She had graduated magna cum laude with a double degree. She had traveled to nearly fifty countries alone before she turned thirty-five. She was a surf model and a professional Argentine tango dancer. She had started five different companies and had an MBA from NYU. How could someone like her end up brainwashed and in a cult?

The Burn Zone is an exploration of how we give up our power?how what started out as a need to heal from the loss of her parents and to understand the big questions in life could leave a young woman fighting for her sanity and her sense of self. In the years following her departure from the cult, Linnell struggled to reclaim herself, to stand in her truth, and to rebuild her life. And eventually, after battling depression and isolation, she found a way to come out the other side stronger than ever. Part inspirational story, part cautionary tale, this is a memoir for spiritual seekers and those who feel lost in a world that makes them feel less than perfect.

PRAISE:

“The Burn Zone is a remarkable read that is sure to pull at your heartstrings. A story that will stay with you long after reading.” —Lovely Loveday book reviewer

“Easily the best memoir I’ve ever read.” —Book Recon

“My main takeaway from this book and Linnell as a writer is how incredibly strong and brilliant she is.” —The Plucky Reader

“Renee did such an amazing job with this book. If there is one memoir I think you need to read right away—this is the one!! Not only is her story just amazing, but her writing of her story is beyond excellent.” —Writing Fun’s Michelle Dunton

“This page-turner of a memoir is part cautionary tale, part inspira- tional story that speaks volumes about what makes people human and their longing to belong. The language is down to earth and easy to understand without any complicated meditation terms to learn. She simply tells her story in the hopes of inspiring others to live their true self. The Burn Zone is recommended for readers who appreciate memoirs with spiritual and meditation themes.” —SA Examiner

“Linnell describing her depression felt like I was reading parts of my own life in the last few years. If you’ve ever wanted to know what is going on with a loved one while they suffer from depression, I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s raw and powerful and it’s true. And the way out of depression is also true. It’s not a quick process and if you want to know more, definitely read this book.” —Tea, Chocolate, and Books

“As she winds her way out of the insanity of two people who have kept her in thrall, Renee discovers she is stronger than she thinks. Beautifully done.” —Mrs. Mommy Booknerd

“Renee’s comeback, reclamation and finally accepting herself for what she is provides for quite an engaging read. She has an easy, believable writing style that makes you think she is talking directly to you in a private conversation. The Burn Zone definitely spoke to me, and the self-help benefits should do wonders for anyone else who gives this book a try.” —Bookreporter

“Renee’s transparency is what made this memoir real. There was no sugarcoating. She told it like it was.” —This Mom’s Delight

“This book truly was something else. Reading about Renee’s journey was heartbreaking, addicting, inspiring, and so much more. I enjoyed this memoir and recommend it to those who seek spiritual Enlightenment.” —Lauren’s Bookshelf

“Heartbreaking as it is, this is a most important book.” —Phil Jason Reviews

“Memoir offers lost souls a viable path to self-respect and renewal.” —The Florida Weekly

“I cheered Renee on from the start. She finds purpose in her life right before the reader’s eyes, and what’s more relatable than that? I was captivated by the story and emotional at different points due to the author’s brutal honesty and vulnerability. Overall, I found The Burn Zone an impressive and memorable memoir, one that will stick with me.” —The Tar Heel Reader

Editorial Review

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Excerpt

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Discussion Questions

From the author:

1. Did you find the author's story compelling?

2. How did the book compare to other memoirs you've read?

3. For the person who chose this book: What made you want to read it? What made you suggest it to the group for discussion? Did it live up to your expectations? Why or why not?

4. What do you think motivated the author to share her life story? How did you respond to the author's "voice"?

5. Do you think the author is trying to elicit a certain response from the reader, such as sympathy? How has this book changed or enhanced your view of the author?

6. Discuss the book's structure and the author's use of language and writing style. How does the author draw the reader in and keep the reader engaged? Does the author convey her story with comedy, self-pity, or something else?

7. Were there any instances in which you felt the author was not being truthful? How did you react to these sections?

8. What is the author's most admirable quality? Is this someone you would want to know or have known?

9. What did you like or dislike about the book that hasn't been discussed already? Were you glad you read this book? Would you recommend it to a friend? Do you want to read more works by this author?

10. What do you think is the most important takeaway from the author's story?

11. Was there any one line or passage that stood out to you?

12. How did the memoir make you reflect on your own life?

Weblinks

»	Download an excerpt
»	Author's website
»	Author Interview in The Daily Beast
»	Book Review on Book recon
»	Author's note about writing the book

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