272 pages, 16 unnumbered pages of plates : 24 cm

"From the ruthless Sicilian Mafia to the politically significant but elusive Bilderberg Group, described as 'an international who's who of the wealthy, influential and powerful', Behind Closed Doors explores some of the world's most mysterious and secretive associations, separating the falsehoods and fictions from the often unsettling truth

Many religions that purport to be based on spiritual insight and established historical significance have nonetheless incurred fear and suspicion. Opus Dei - made famous in Dan Brown's best-selling 2003 novel The Da Vinci Code - has long courted controversy with its links to various powerful institutions and governments, including Franco's Spain. The Church of Scientology has made headlines with its controversial views on mental health, politics and the nature of the universe itself

Intrigue and suspicion also surround many secular organizations, including the secretive Skull and Bones Society, a gathering of elites at Yale University; the infamous Ku Klux Klan (KKK), with its violent history and practices; and Cecil John Rhodes's Society of the Elect, an appropriately named organization that sought to expand the British Empire. From medieval Spain all the way to modern-day Los Angeles, California, Behind Closed Doors takes the reader on a gripping, revelatory journey behind the scenes of some of the world's most secret faiths and institutions, peeling away the speculation and paranoia to reveal their true nature and impact upon society."--Jacket

Includes bibliographical references and index

The dawn of time -- Merovingians, Cathars and the Knights Templar -- Freemasonry -- The enlightened ones -- Magic, hate and the old gods -- Money and influence -- Opus Dei -- The Church of Scientology -- Criminal societies -- THe future