Sorcerer's Apprentice

Wow! This is a mind blower. Castenada's work has always been a major life influence to me and still is. But after reading this book, I'm no longer regretting not having met him. This book presents an outstanding record of what it was like to be in the inner circle. Amy does a great job reporting her experience and really succeeds in creating a comprehensive view of Castenada's world. Although many questions remain in my mind, I found more answers reading this than I had expected. I think any fan of Castenada's work would find this book fascinating.

One word of caution though, while this work will grab your interest right away, it comes as a result of Amy's admittance into the inner circle, and the honeymoon period doesn't last long. What then begins is a very emotionally abusive relationship that continues for the rest of this story. Carlos is the source of it and the primary offender but his inner circle witches contribute significantly. It gets grueling, and I often wondered why & how Amy could put up with it. While there is an explanation - an obvious one regarding the type of personality that is susceptible to a cult - I still found it difficult aspect of the story. But there is plenty more to the story that held my interest.

I was even pleasantly surprised by the ending - and it's possible I'm being naive - as Amy seemed to be in a good place and had made the most of her experience.

I'd highly recommend this book to any fan of Castenada's work.