First published in the 1961 and reissued in this compact 1999 hardcover, Arkon Daraul’s Secret Societies: A History surveys clandestine brotherhoods and esoteric orders from antiquity to the modern era. 
In brisk, reader-friendly chapters, Daraul explores groups such as the Assassins, Knights Templar, Rosicrucians, Carbonari, and more—touching on passwords, initiation rites, symbols, and the cultural myths that surround them. Equal parts armchair travel and cabinet-of-curiosities, this illustrated overview remains a popular jumping-off point for anyone curious about the rituals and lore of hidden societies.
Perfect For:
Readers curious about Templars, Assassins, and esoteric rites
Fans of occult history and lodge/ritual studies
Gift shoppers seeking an accessible, browsable reference
Book clubs or collectors of conspiracy & counter-culture nonfiction
Why you’ll love it:
Fast, self-contained chapters you can browse out of order
Wide historical/geographic range (Middle East, Europe, beyond)
A classic reissue that pairs well with deeper academic studies
Great conversation-starter for myth-busting and trivia nights