Ruthless

Scientology, My Son David Miscavige, and Me

By: Ron Miscavige, Dan Koon

Narrated by: Harvey Betancourt

The only book to examine the origins of Scientology's current leader, Ruthless tells the revealing story of David Miscavige's childhood and his path to the head seat of the Church of Scientology told through the eyes of his father. Ron Miscavige's personal, heartfelt story is a riveting insider's look at life within the world of Scientology.

The introduction of this audiobook is read by the author.

Not for sale outside the U.S.

father of the chief.

If you are interested in minds, cults, how people get caught up in something that demeans them, listen to this. Well and plain spoken.The reader is excellent.

Amazingly sad story

David Miscavige is a tragic figure. I listened to this knowing that Ron had passed. I truly hope that he was able to reconnect with his son before he died. In case you ever see this, David. I don't know if you a true believer or if you're just in it for the money and power. But on your current coarse, when your day comes and it's your time to die you better hope Tom Cruise is still alive so there will be one person who isn't relieved to see you go.

A heartfelt book.

While sad in nature, I found this book to be easy to follow and sincere. The narrator did a fine job and the context of the story was interesting and informative.

I don't care for his protecting Hubbard ...

It seems that if Hubbard hadn't set the ball in motion and mentally ill as well as fraudulent and participated in criminal activity the end result would have never occurred. Hubbard set the stage for what followed.

Depends what you’re looking for

I listened to this after listening to Beyond Belief and trying to get another perspective on the church. While I think that this book does give a different perspective and discusses the marketing and audio visual aspects of life in c-org, the story is repetitive and could be about 1/4 shorter. There are moments when you return to the book after only a short break wondering if the device has not advanced, when in fact you are simply rehearing something you have already heard. The story overall is interesting based in the relationship with David Miscavige, but otherwise is very repetitive.

Ruthlessly Honest ~ An Engrossing Read!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Even if you've never heard of Scientology, this book would be interesting. Because I was in Scientology, (for many years), I found this book especially fascinating. I believe Ron told his story as truthfully as possible, and in fact, it actually helped me remember some of the reasons I got into Scientology! However, I would never go back, because I know what he writes about is truthful, and what has happened within the group is so sad, and harmful.
I was in it in the 70's and 80's, and got services from a "field auditor". The group was wonderful, and definitely used the "tech" with good intentions. It was a great time!
I'm sorry for the reason Ron decided to write the book, but I'm glad he wrote it.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Well, the author is my favorite character, and I have a lot of respect and affinity for him after hearing his story.

What does Harvey Betancourt bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I almost always prefer to listen to the author, but I think Mr. Betancourt did a good job reading this one.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

I think the title is perfect as it is.

Any additional comments?

I got out of Scientology because I saw the harmful things that were happening in the organization. I read and listen to information about the "church", because I was personally involved for many years, and I know many of the people talked about. I was especially interested in Ron's story, and I found it fascinating. If I met Ron, I'd give him a Big Hug!

kept me engaged.

I was eager to listen to this book after watching Leah Remini"s special outing Scientology.
it did not disappoint. easy to follow and engaging. This is the author's experience. The accpunt is full of information ( some not so pretty)into the crooked world of a cult hiding g behind the guise of religion

The Devil for a Son

I feel extremely bad for Ron. I love my son so much and would be crushed if he changed from the sweet boy he is to an absolute monster like COB. You will read about the extremely cruelty DM has inflicted on others via the disconnection policy, forced abortions, the rfp (labor camps for adults and children), physical and verbal abuse on his colleagues, robbing families of their hard earned money etc etc. He will also tell you where David imprisoned his wife Shelly. He says the lure of money and power transformed his son into an evil narcissist and backs it up with a horrifying narrative. The saddest part is the ending where he forgives his son and seems to have a glimmer of hope that one day his son will come to his senses. I highly recommend this book!!

ty

great book ty Ron
Plz keep up the great work
us ex's are behind you

what a touching story

I couldn't help but hear Ron narrate this story. rest in peace dear Ron! I hope that Becky is doing well. I've listened to this book in one sitting. so much I wanted to say while I was listening but now words escape me...