False Idols

By: Karla Marie Sweet

Narrated by: Karla Marie Sweet

'A fascinating look at the intoxicating world of cults and their charismatic leaders' Stylist
'A very, very smart thriller . . . highly addictive and exquisitely written' Joanna Cannon
'A summer read that's also dark, compulsive, and captivating' Louise Beech

ANYTHING CAN BE DANGEROUS IN THE WRONG HANDS.

Sadie's been adrift, looking for an escape from her new house and old memories, when a chance encounter leads her to one of the most exclusive wellness classes in LA.

At first she's sceptical, but the classes - and the attention of its magnetic leader, Lilith - are transformative, other-worldly, completely addictive.

No one in Sadie's life understands that Deep Flow isn't a cult, but a community. One that offers the chance to feel powerful in her own body again, maybe even a way to finally let go of her past.

But when the sisterhood, and Sadie's place within it, comes under threat, the hidden cost of being part of Lilith's inner circle becomes clear.

What would Sadie risk to prove her loyalty?

A searing look at power and exploitation in the wellness industry, False Idols is an unflinching, compulsive thriller by a captivating new voice in fiction - perfect for fans of Celeste Ng and Emma Cline.


'Such a great read, and I loved how Sadie's past was revealed . . . what is she running from?' Prima

'An intriguing and compelling look into the sinister side of the wellness industry' Heat

'A slick and twisted thriller' Woman's Own


'A sharply observed psychological thriller . . . smart, compelling, and emotionally charged' The Voice


'A moving and entertaining book about the desperation to heal and belong, and the dangerous places shame can lead you to' Charlotte Paradise

©2025 Karla Marie Sweet (P)2025 Headline Publishing Group Limited

Critic reviews

A moving and entertaining book about the desperation to heal and belong, and the dangerous places shame can lead you to (Charlotte Paradise)

Pure escapism that's also a study of cultism, how we are seduced by promises of a better life. A summer read that's also dark, compulsive, and captivating (Louise Beech)

A fascinating look at the intoxicating world of cults and their charismatic leaders . . . tells the story of an LA wellness community hiding a dark secret

A very, very smart thriller . . . highly addictive and exquisitely written. A book about identity, self-belief and self doubt (Joanna Cannon)