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Finding Home #1
Beyond the Cabin
Trapped in a controlling, abusive cult and betrayed by those he trusted, Josh hungers for freedom from the Fundamental Faith in God. After his first escape attempt fails, Josh takes even more solace in a rustic cabin he and his oldest brother made, finding peace in isolation. But when the other kids in the cult need him to protect them and be part of their family, is Josh betraying them by trying to get away?
- GenresAudiobook
280 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 1, 2020
Josh is a 13-year-old living in a cult in Pennsylvania. When his brother runs away, all Josh can think of is getting away, too.
It’s a well-written debut. I completely felt Josh’s feelings of confinement, injustice, and betrayal. His growth is subtle and gradual; you almost don’t see it. It’s a gripping story because of the emotions of the characters. It could use a little editing but is pretty good overall.
This is Jared’s first book, self-published and semi-autobiographical. I had already read a first draft of Jared’s actual autobiography, so I could easily see which parts were fictional and which weren’t. New cover by the amazingly talented Nathan Shumate.
Clean language | No sexual content | Some domestic violence, child abuse
It’s a well-written debut. I completely felt Josh’s feelings of confinement, injustice, and betrayal. His growth is subtle and gradual; you almost don’t see it. It’s a gripping story because of the emotions of the characters. It could use a little editing but is pretty good overall.
This is Jared’s first book, self-published and semi-autobiographical. I had already read a first draft of Jared’s actual autobiography, so I could easily see which parts were fictional and which weren’t. New cover by the amazingly talented Nathan Shumate.
Clean language | No sexual content | Some domestic violence, child abuse
June 9, 2019
"How could they think that by separating themselves from the world could make any difference in it?"
Beyond the Cabin is the story of a teenager trapped inside a cult. More than this, it is the story of its author, who has based this book on his own life and the amalgamations of the abuses he suffered. The book's greatest strength comes from this reality as its first-person perspective adds gumption to every tragedy and slight.
It is a tale of helpless yearning, at least at first, where little by little our narrator grows up in ways he does not expect. It is an awkward tale at times in both content and writing. Something interesting occurs: as the book goes on the writing becomes better and better, as if the narrator (who, again, is a proxy for the author) is subtly growing, becoming more coherent with every new event. Much like in real life, this growth is not spelled out, and is therefore all the more poignant by its realization. We rarely ever realize the moment we "grew up," instead we simply looked around and realized that something within us has changed—this book works the same way.
It is a bittersweet tale, to be sure, in no small part due to its basis in reality which allows it to defy storytelling conventions. There is much of the story that is unanswered and untold, and for all the resolution the book offers there is so much more to confront. Without spoiling anything, the end of the story is not the end of tragedy. It isn't about outcomes, it is about survival, but for all this it is not a bitter story—quite the opposite, really, for all its tragedies it is about the sense of hope that culminates piece by piece.
It is not a perfect book. As mentioned, it is a little awkward to read sometimes and could have used a little more editing. But for its issues I can honestly say it did not detract from the experience. In fact, as I said, its awkwardness often adds to the perspective, giving it an immersion that engulfs me as a reader. The balance it achieves from this is so delicate I hesitate to name any suggested changes. So instead let me just say this:
Beyond the Cabin is really, really, really good. Read it.
Beyond the Cabin is the story of a teenager trapped inside a cult. More than this, it is the story of its author, who has based this book on his own life and the amalgamations of the abuses he suffered. The book's greatest strength comes from this reality as its first-person perspective adds gumption to every tragedy and slight.
It is a tale of helpless yearning, at least at first, where little by little our narrator grows up in ways he does not expect. It is an awkward tale at times in both content and writing. Something interesting occurs: as the book goes on the writing becomes better and better, as if the narrator (who, again, is a proxy for the author) is subtly growing, becoming more coherent with every new event. Much like in real life, this growth is not spelled out, and is therefore all the more poignant by its realization. We rarely ever realize the moment we "grew up," instead we simply looked around and realized that something within us has changed—this book works the same way.
It is a bittersweet tale, to be sure, in no small part due to its basis in reality which allows it to defy storytelling conventions. There is much of the story that is unanswered and untold, and for all the resolution the book offers there is so much more to confront. Without spoiling anything, the end of the story is not the end of tragedy. It isn't about outcomes, it is about survival, but for all this it is not a bitter story—quite the opposite, really, for all its tragedies it is about the sense of hope that culminates piece by piece.
It is not a perfect book. As mentioned, it is a little awkward to read sometimes and could have used a little more editing. But for its issues I can honestly say it did not detract from the experience. In fact, as I said, its awkwardness often adds to the perspective, giving it an immersion that engulfs me as a reader. The balance it achieves from this is so delicate I hesitate to name any suggested changes. So instead let me just say this:
Beyond the Cabin is really, really, really good. Read it.
January 26, 2019
I listened to this on audio and was really pleasantly surprised by this book. It’s a heartwarming but sometimes shocking tale of a young boy who grows up in a cult religion without any real connections or love from anyone. After the loss of his biological brother the boy finally learns to not only stand up agains the horrific abuse going on in the group but also to final forge real relationships with some of the other children of the religion. This is a beautiful coming of age story in many way although in a very different setting to what they normal are in. The excellent Bill Nevitt narration was great as always as well.
June 25, 2020
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I think this was probably the calmest “cult” story I’ve ever read/listened to though. There was some questionable writing, for example, lines like “That should keep those two under control. Whatever that means.” Why would Josh have thought the comment if he didn’t know what it meant? Or “As the water cascaded over my body, slowly beginning to ease the pain in my body, I seethed” (repetition). I’m always a fan of authors who include aspects of their personal lives into a story, so learning at the end that was the case here, I was pleasantly surprised. I think when a character grows a lot throughout the story, having it in first person is always the best option and provides a nice touch in a way that the reader/listener can create a better connection to how that character feels and what they experience.
The narrator did a pretty good job. I’ve listened to Bill Nevitt narrate several books now and have started to realize that if there are kids present in the story, their voices tend to sound the same (as is the case in this book). While Josh sounded somewhat mature (voice wise), the other kids sounded much younger than the age we’re told they are, often sounding whiny. Also, I couldn’t help but chuckle at his English accent.
I received a free audiobook code in exchange for an unbiased review.
The narrator did a pretty good job. I’ve listened to Bill Nevitt narrate several books now and have started to realize that if there are kids present in the story, their voices tend to sound the same (as is the case in this book). While Josh sounded somewhat mature (voice wise), the other kids sounded much younger than the age we’re told they are, often sounding whiny. Also, I couldn’t help but chuckle at his English accent.
I received a free audiobook code in exchange for an unbiased review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2019
Josh is a 14 year old boy who is being raised in a religious cult with his mum as the leader. She is very strict and shows no affection at all towards her children. He decides he wants to be free from the cult and its restrictions and leave to make his own way, just like his older brother did. A tragedy has an affect on Josh that in the end impacts on his decision.
A very difficult book to listen to at times with an ending I was not expecting.
Overall it was a great book and one I recommend. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
A very difficult book to listen to at times with an ending I was not expecting.
Overall it was a great book and one I recommend. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
April 9, 2021
Living in a cult. What a sad book. Joshua's mother treated the kids like slaves. Joshua wanted to leave but he was only 13.
January 11, 2020
This book gave me insight into a world I’ve never experienced: life in a cult. I enjoyed the first-person narrative and was surprised by the ending.
April 2, 2017
We witness Josh grow and be transformed after the only person he has an emotional connection with dies under tragic circumstances.
This is a story about resilience and learning to love and support those close to us who need us. It is also a good reminder that one does not find happiness in isolation.
Despite the adverse conditions in which Josh finds himself, he is able to see what is happening and process what is done to him and learn that one can make his own choices. Not that his path is an easy one, being reaponsible for the way you react to what life throws at you seldom is.
This is a story about resilience and learning to love and support those close to us who need us. It is also a good reminder that one does not find happiness in isolation.
Despite the adverse conditions in which Josh finds himself, he is able to see what is happening and process what is done to him and learn that one can make his own choices. Not that his path is an easy one, being reaponsible for the way you react to what life throws at you seldom is.
January 27, 2019
( Format : Audiobook )
"Adults with no clue; children with no hope." Sent
As the very brief Afterwards informs us, although this is a work of fiction, it mirrors the experiences of the author, himself.
At first sight, the children, a mix of boys and girls aged between about 4and 17 years, had an idyllic life. Siblings to play with on the several hundred acres of land, including forest, home schooling, weekly visits to the library to stick up on books, and a big old house and outbuildings to explore. But appearances can be very deceptive as Joshua, the main character, relating his story in the first lerson, reveals.
Joshua's mother, Miriam, is the leader of a religious cult, it's full name abbreviated by the kids to The Faith. Whilst most of the dozen adult members of the Sect go to 'work' each day begging for money in the local town, those left behind keep the children's day filled with activity, classes, including the dreaded algebra which their teacher herself didn't understand. prayer meetings, constant lectures on their failures to meet with unrealistic expectations, private shouted tirades against even for the four year olds about respect, and constant punishments, meted out to all for any infringement by one - lines, extra duties, spankings and the interminable lectures, an authority of control which kept the children separated by fear.
At age 14, Josh had two brothers, both Miriam's boys but the different fathers unknown. He loved his big brother, Mal, whose only thought was of escape as soon as he was 18 and, when he left, Josh felt totally alone. This beautifully written story is of what happens both in the house of The Faith and inside Josh's head after his brother has gone. Read with clarity, sensitivity and good intonation, Bill Nevitt further adds to the ongoing effect of the book.
My thanks to the rights holder of Beyond the Cabin who freely gifted me with a complimentary copy at my request after I had seen mention of it in the narrator's email. It was an insightful read about misguided management and the emotional destruction of fear, turning children to machines: tell them what to do and they do it. And, 'What is family, anyway. "
Recommended.
"Adults with no clue; children with no hope." Sent
As the very brief Afterwards informs us, although this is a work of fiction, it mirrors the experiences of the author, himself.
At first sight, the children, a mix of boys and girls aged between about 4and 17 years, had an idyllic life. Siblings to play with on the several hundred acres of land, including forest, home schooling, weekly visits to the library to stick up on books, and a big old house and outbuildings to explore. But appearances can be very deceptive as Joshua, the main character, relating his story in the first lerson, reveals.
Joshua's mother, Miriam, is the leader of a religious cult, it's full name abbreviated by the kids to The Faith. Whilst most of the dozen adult members of the Sect go to 'work' each day begging for money in the local town, those left behind keep the children's day filled with activity, classes, including the dreaded algebra which their teacher herself didn't understand. prayer meetings, constant lectures on their failures to meet with unrealistic expectations, private shouted tirades against even for the four year olds about respect, and constant punishments, meted out to all for any infringement by one - lines, extra duties, spankings and the interminable lectures, an authority of control which kept the children separated by fear.
At age 14, Josh had two brothers, both Miriam's boys but the different fathers unknown. He loved his big brother, Mal, whose only thought was of escape as soon as he was 18 and, when he left, Josh felt totally alone. This beautifully written story is of what happens both in the house of The Faith and inside Josh's head after his brother has gone. Read with clarity, sensitivity and good intonation, Bill Nevitt further adds to the ongoing effect of the book.
My thanks to the rights holder of Beyond the Cabin who freely gifted me with a complimentary copy at my request after I had seen mention of it in the narrator's email. It was an insightful read about misguided management and the emotional destruction of fear, turning children to machines: tell them what to do and they do it. And, 'What is family, anyway. "
Recommended.
August 14, 2018
What does FAMILY really mean?
This book could actually be considered more of a young adult tale, as those are who most of the main characters represent.
Aside from that, and beyond the characters, tho the theme of the book: I love reading true stories about how children are raised in, and survive, cults. But most of those stories are so predictable. In Beyond the Cabin, Mr. Garrett takes the reader on a moving journey of his own childhood where he tells not only the bad, but the good and precious relationships he forms as he's born and raised in a cult that is a splinter group of Scientology. Here he lives in a house with about 20 people, where boys and girls are kept separate, they are told (brainwashed) into believing that the world outside the gates of the commune is full of evil, so they are only safe there, inside. They subsist on the money brought in by "beggars" who are residents out the cult, who go out daily to beg for money, telling strangers it's tip be used to help with vet bills for the stay animals they pick up and re-home. But, they don't actually do this. Nobody who resides there is allowed to have a job because it means interacting with the world outside the commune.
It seems the older people/adults simply use the children to do all of the work...cooking, cleaning, yard work, home repairs, even painting the house exterior, etc. The hardest work is reserved for when the kids are being punished. There is no age limit when they are considered too old to stop receiving the belt - they just seem to get it harder. Several get punched and kicked when they are caught "bullying" other kids.
All in all, I'd recommend this book as a great weekend read. It's an easy, quick, hard to put down, and very touching story about family, friendship and more than anything...what family REALLY means. And it's not full of religion like a lot of cult books are. Could be given to teens as a way of teaching them a thing or two about family as well.
POSSIBLE SPOILER FOLLOWS:
There's one thing that upset me, and only those who read the book already will understand - I waited the entire book for ... the kiss and ended up severely disappointed:
This book could actually be considered more of a young adult tale, as those are who most of the main characters represent.
Aside from that, and beyond the characters, tho the theme of the book: I love reading true stories about how children are raised in, and survive, cults. But most of those stories are so predictable. In Beyond the Cabin, Mr. Garrett takes the reader on a moving journey of his own childhood where he tells not only the bad, but the good and precious relationships he forms as he's born and raised in a cult that is a splinter group of Scientology. Here he lives in a house with about 20 people, where boys and girls are kept separate, they are told (brainwashed) into believing that the world outside the gates of the commune is full of evil, so they are only safe there, inside. They subsist on the money brought in by "beggars" who are residents out the cult, who go out daily to beg for money, telling strangers it's tip be used to help with vet bills for the stay animals they pick up and re-home. But, they don't actually do this. Nobody who resides there is allowed to have a job because it means interacting with the world outside the commune.
It seems the older people/adults simply use the children to do all of the work...cooking, cleaning, yard work, home repairs, even painting the house exterior, etc. The hardest work is reserved for when the kids are being punished. There is no age limit when they are considered too old to stop receiving the belt - they just seem to get it harder. Several get punched and kicked when they are caught "bullying" other kids.
All in all, I'd recommend this book as a great weekend read. It's an easy, quick, hard to put down, and very touching story about family, friendship and more than anything...what family REALLY means. And it's not full of religion like a lot of cult books are. Could be given to teens as a way of teaching them a thing or two about family as well.
POSSIBLE SPOILER FOLLOWS:
There's one thing that upset me, and only those who read the book already will understand - I waited the entire book for ... the kiss and ended up severely disappointed:
January 22, 2019
I genuinely felt I was listening to Josh's diary the entire time. Whilst there were a couple of shocking events, it was mostly just a record of the daily drudgery of life in a cult. The relentless decimation of the children's personalities as the adults work enthusiastically to turn them into brainwashed drones with no room for self awareness or free thought. The constant fear of punishment and threat of violence was an undercurrent that should shame those in charge to the core of their being. It was genuinely upsetting and so believable, and I had decided well before the end to Google the author and see if I could find out something of his background. It was frighteningly real with no 'Hollywood glamour' added in an attempt to make it more marketable. What was also very real was Bill Nevitt's narration. Now I happen to know that Mr Nevitt is not a 14 year old boy, but he sure sounds like one in this audio book. His pitch, intonation and pronunciation were absolutely spot on for a teenager. Credit where it's due, this wasn't narrating, this was voice acting and we are treated to an Oscar worthy performance. Beyond the Cabin is marketed for 13 years and up, and I'm very much the 'up' part of the scale! It kept me captivated for over 10 hours. Jared Nathan Garrett doesn't set out to shock us, but shocking it is.
March 31, 2018
Amazing story
What makes it most amazing is that it is based on a scenario that the author obviously has first hand knowledge about. The Important Notes at the end tell it all. The book would have been much better with careful editing like many kindle books nowadays. It kind of drug in the middle and I think an editor could have fixed that. The ending and its message was terrific, reminding me that it serves me best to want what I have and to consider creatively and with love how to deal with what I have. I was so taken by the subject matter that I did some research on the cult the author grew up in. I do hope to read more of his work.
What makes it most amazing is that it is based on a scenario that the author obviously has first hand knowledge about. The Important Notes at the end tell it all. The book would have been much better with careful editing like many kindle books nowadays. It kind of drug in the middle and I think an editor could have fixed that. The ending and its message was terrific, reminding me that it serves me best to want what I have and to consider creatively and with love how to deal with what I have. I was so taken by the subject matter that I did some research on the cult the author grew up in. I do hope to read more of his work.
October 23, 2019
I suppose I shouldn't be disappointed by a true story but I am. We are left wondering so much about what happens in his life. Somehow, based on his website Jared comes out of this with compassion and maturity.
I don't understand the choice Jared makes but since this is his life I don't need to understand. Still, it would be nice to know more. I'll admit, for some reason I became tired of reading Beyond the Cabin and skimmed the book until I reached the last chapter.
I don't understand the choice Jared makes but since this is his life I don't need to understand. Still, it would be nice to know more. I'll admit, for some reason I became tired of reading Beyond the Cabin and skimmed the book until I reached the last chapter.
July 10, 2019
A young teen struggles to find his place in the world living amongst a cult. He’s determined to leave but ultimately
makes a choice to stay to protect and support other children in the house that he feels have become like family.
makes a choice to stay to protect and support other children in the house that he feels have become like family.
January 21, 2015
Review to come
3.5 Stars
Mild language, abuse but not graphic
3.5 Stars
Mild language, abuse but not graphic
September 14, 2024
I ran across Jared at a farmers market. He had a pop-up there. I looked at his set up and decided to go see what he was all about. I am so thankful I did. We chatted for about 15 to 20 minutes and I found that we had plenty in common. I asked about this series and decided to buy the first book to "test it out."
That was a Wednesday evening... I finished the book the next day, Thursday, and waited until the next week's farmers market to get book 2.
Well... Jared wasn't at the next farmers market... so I found him on FB and reached out. I found him a couple weeks later and got the rest of the series (3 more books)
Again, that was on a Wednesday evening. I finished all 3 books by Monday night. I LOVED THE SERIES!!!
I must say that I was quite surprised that I had gotten so involved in the 2 lead characters. I had just finished the Jack Carr Series and that was COMPLETELY different and quite brutal in parts... So I didn't think I would really get into the story so much... BOY WAS I WRONG.
I not only got into the characters, Josh and Mary, but I found myself relating to much of what Josh was feeling and doing (his stupidity) when I was a young lad. It made me rethink some things from my past and opened up my mind and understanding like I've never quite experienced.
I was able to convince Jared to go to lunch with me and we had a great time chatting about life and books and knives and all sorts of great stuff... including brisket... lol
The flow of the story, the factual events from Jared's life, the ability to relate to these characters was not only fun but quite educational in an emotional way... again... like I've never quite experienced.
I am still not totally sure why or how I got so attached to this story, but I loved each book and have recommended them to many people already. Its a great family read as well... telling a story that hits so close to home and actual events can be a very difficult thing to portray... Jared did an amazing job and to be honest.. these books have influenced my life in a positive and uplifting way.
Because of these books, I am now a fan of Jared's writing and have already purchased his other series, "The Guide and The Sword" and have already worked my way through those as well.
Jared is a great writer, a great guy, and completely worth supporting as an independent publisher as well. I'm a fan and will get all of his books... the ones already written and the ones coming in the future.
Great Job Jared Nathan Garrett... here's to continued reading, continued learning, continued improving, and a continued friendship.
Damon T.
That was a Wednesday evening... I finished the book the next day, Thursday, and waited until the next week's farmers market to get book 2.
Well... Jared wasn't at the next farmers market... so I found him on FB and reached out. I found him a couple weeks later and got the rest of the series (3 more books)
Again, that was on a Wednesday evening. I finished all 3 books by Monday night. I LOVED THE SERIES!!!
I must say that I was quite surprised that I had gotten so involved in the 2 lead characters. I had just finished the Jack Carr Series and that was COMPLETELY different and quite brutal in parts... So I didn't think I would really get into the story so much... BOY WAS I WRONG.
I not only got into the characters, Josh and Mary, but I found myself relating to much of what Josh was feeling and doing (his stupidity) when I was a young lad. It made me rethink some things from my past and opened up my mind and understanding like I've never quite experienced.
I was able to convince Jared to go to lunch with me and we had a great time chatting about life and books and knives and all sorts of great stuff... including brisket... lol
The flow of the story, the factual events from Jared's life, the ability to relate to these characters was not only fun but quite educational in an emotional way... again... like I've never quite experienced.
I am still not totally sure why or how I got so attached to this story, but I loved each book and have recommended them to many people already. Its a great family read as well... telling a story that hits so close to home and actual events can be a very difficult thing to portray... Jared did an amazing job and to be honest.. these books have influenced my life in a positive and uplifting way.
Because of these books, I am now a fan of Jared's writing and have already purchased his other series, "The Guide and The Sword" and have already worked my way through those as well.
Jared is a great writer, a great guy, and completely worth supporting as an independent publisher as well. I'm a fan and will get all of his books... the ones already written and the ones coming in the future.
Great Job Jared Nathan Garrett... here's to continued reading, continued learning, continued improving, and a continued friendship.
Damon T.
February 15, 2019
Life in a cult.
Although published as a novel, this book is the semi-autobiographical account of the author's upbringing in a breakaway (from Scientology) cult. His mother is the cult leader but doesn't show any love her children. Discipline consists of a huge amount of chores and lines, often directed at the wrong child. Severe beatings also take place, but the children hide their bruises through some feeling of shame or protection of the perpetrator.
Josh is fourteen when his older brother decides he's had enough and leaves without warning. Josh feels betrayed and angry. They had been building a cabin in the woods and this becomes a place of refuge for Josh. Although he lives in a house full of children, he doesn't have any close friends and seems to be constantly at loggerheads with the other boys. Which brings me to my main gripe with the book - the inane conversation between the boys; which seemed to consist of a huge number of insults such as 'jerk', 'moron' and 'idiot'. As the author is writing from his own experience I can only assume that this reflected the level of conversation, but it did make for irritating reading.
As a bird's eye view of life in a cult this was definitely disturbing. The boys pretty much raise themselves, while the older girls become mothers to the younger ones. The children are desperate for love and attention and there is only one adult who shows any level of care at all. The children are educated by the adults who are less effective at begging for funds on the streets; even the teacher herself, didn't understand algebra.
Thankfully, the author is now happily married with a family of his own, but in an interview he does admit that his upbringing has left scars. He tries to show his children infinite love, rejecting the role model of his own childhood.
Finally, I was listening to the audiobook and I should make a mention of the narration by Bill Nevitt, who managed to do the girls voices as well as the boys, without sounding forced.
Although published as a novel, this book is the semi-autobiographical account of the author's upbringing in a breakaway (from Scientology) cult. His mother is the cult leader but doesn't show any love her children. Discipline consists of a huge amount of chores and lines, often directed at the wrong child. Severe beatings also take place, but the children hide their bruises through some feeling of shame or protection of the perpetrator.
Josh is fourteen when his older brother decides he's had enough and leaves without warning. Josh feels betrayed and angry. They had been building a cabin in the woods and this becomes a place of refuge for Josh. Although he lives in a house full of children, he doesn't have any close friends and seems to be constantly at loggerheads with the other boys. Which brings me to my main gripe with the book - the inane conversation between the boys; which seemed to consist of a huge number of insults such as 'jerk', 'moron' and 'idiot'. As the author is writing from his own experience I can only assume that this reflected the level of conversation, but it did make for irritating reading.
As a bird's eye view of life in a cult this was definitely disturbing. The boys pretty much raise themselves, while the older girls become mothers to the younger ones. The children are desperate for love and attention and there is only one adult who shows any level of care at all. The children are educated by the adults who are less effective at begging for funds on the streets; even the teacher herself, didn't understand algebra.
Thankfully, the author is now happily married with a family of his own, but in an interview he does admit that his upbringing has left scars. He tries to show his children infinite love, rejecting the role model of his own childhood.
Finally, I was listening to the audiobook and I should make a mention of the narration by Bill Nevitt, who managed to do the girls voices as well as the boys, without sounding forced.
May 30, 2020
Growing up in the Fundamental Faith in God hasn’t fooled Joshua one bit. He knows the life he lives isn’t normal. The most he knows about families comes from the books he reads. His mother has never acted like one. Day in and day out his life revolves around prayer and chores. Most of his day he spends questioning why the adults had the children that they don’t seem to want. When he can, he finds solace by spending time in the woods with his brother Mal. When Mal leaves and ends up getting himself killed, Joshua is left alone to figure out what he should do.
The characters were well-fleshed out. Each of the kids had their own personality and interests which made them stand out from one another. I sometimes found it difficult to connect with Joshua though. At times he was petulant and unruly though I could certainly understand his character arc. It was easy to see why he’d act out and hurt the other kids at times but those times made it hard to root for him. I think I liked the “romantic interest” Mary more. She was sweet and more down to Earth. In a way she was Joshua’s foil.
It was interesting to hear that the author was in a cult and wrote the book based loosely on his experiences. I think that added a personal touch to the characters and story arc that would’ve been otherwise been missing.
Narration was perfect for the story.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
The characters were well-fleshed out. Each of the kids had their own personality and interests which made them stand out from one another. I sometimes found it difficult to connect with Joshua though. At times he was petulant and unruly though I could certainly understand his character arc. It was easy to see why he’d act out and hurt the other kids at times but those times made it hard to root for him. I think I liked the “romantic interest” Mary more. She was sweet and more down to Earth. In a way she was Joshua’s foil.
It was interesting to hear that the author was in a cult and wrote the book based loosely on his experiences. I think that added a personal touch to the characters and story arc that would’ve been otherwise been missing.
Narration was perfect for the story.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
January 26, 2019
Beyond the Cabin by Jared Garrett is a novel based on true life events. A young teenaged boy searches for the meaning of family as he grows up in a religious cult where there are a number of children of several mothers and fathered by several men. The adults are called by their given names and come across as harsh and occasionally abusive. After a tragedy occurs, his focus turns to figuring out how fast he can get out and yet there begins a change in his relationships with the other children and even some of the adults. It is a poignant coming of age story. It is tragic and yet there is a beginning sense of self-actualization and purpose and a knowing of what a family could look like. The characters are portrayed realistically and their emotions are raw and relatable. I listened to a complimentary copy of the audiobook and was not required to write a review. The book is narrated by Bill Nevitt and he does a great job telling the characters' story which makes for an enjoyable listening experience.
February 9, 2019
Brilliant narrator!
I did enjoy listening to this book . I listened to it while walking the dog every day and found myself walking a little bit further so that I could carry on listening. Bill Nevitt is a great narrator and I always enjoy listening to his books.
I enjoyed the transformation of the main character through the trials he goes through. I won't mention them here as I don't like reviews that give too much away. Sometimes there were funny moments but a lot of the events left me feeling cross about the way the children were treated.
I did think from the synopsis that there would be more details given about the cult and its practices and beliefs but since the main character isn't interested in it we don't really find out a lot about all that. It wasn't quite what I expected but I enjoyed it nevertheless.
I did enjoy listening to this book . I listened to it while walking the dog every day and found myself walking a little bit further so that I could carry on listening. Bill Nevitt is a great narrator and I always enjoy listening to his books.
I enjoyed the transformation of the main character through the trials he goes through. I won't mention them here as I don't like reviews that give too much away. Sometimes there were funny moments but a lot of the events left me feeling cross about the way the children were treated.
I did think from the synopsis that there would be more details given about the cult and its practices and beliefs but since the main character isn't interested in it we don't really find out a lot about all that. It wasn't quite what I expected but I enjoyed it nevertheless.
June 14, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, both the writing and narration. I've done a lot of research into cults, such as Jonestown, Branch Davidians, FLDS, Scientology, etc., and cannot believe all that goes on, especially with the kids. It's very tragic, and it can be nearly impossible for some to escape its clutches. Families are town apart, lives ruined. At times it was hard to tell who was speaking at any given time, as the voices all sounded similar, but all in all I really enjoyed it. :)
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 10, 2019
One of those stories that makes you feel uneasy!
This is about young mans journey as he grows up in a cult. The jumbled feelings of fear, isolation and distrust mingle with the realization that though he feels completely alone, there are other children in the home.
This is the type of story that really makes you uncomfortable, and yet you are simply unable to put it down.
It’s very much worth finishing. The narrator is easy to understand and reads at a great pace. He makes the store feel real.
This is about young mans journey as he grows up in a cult. The jumbled feelings of fear, isolation and distrust mingle with the realization that though he feels completely alone, there are other children in the home.
This is the type of story that really makes you uncomfortable, and yet you are simply unable to put it down.
It’s very much worth finishing. The narrator is easy to understand and reads at a great pace. He makes the store feel real.
February 14, 2019
A well written book about life in a religious cult. It is written from the view point of Josh a 14 year old boy (nearly 15!) who has reached the teenage rebellious stage and is questioning the world he was born into. Josh’s mother Miriam, who is the head of cult, has absolutely no maternal feeling for her children and is dictatorial in the extreme. The children are ill prepared for the realities of life outside “The Faith” as Josh’s elder brother Malachi discovers. All in all a very disturbing insight into life in a religious cult. Extremely well narrated by Bill Nevitt.
October 24, 2019
Enlightening and leaves you wanting more.
This is a great read that gives an enlightened and deeply personal perspective on Cult life. The characters are easy to love or hate depending on their role in the story. This book had heartbreak, romance, coming of age, and finding ones self all rolled up into a perfect package. I hope there is more to the story someday. I definitely want to see what new challenges and triumphs await these fantastic characters. Would definitely reccomend.
This is a great read that gives an enlightened and deeply personal perspective on Cult life. The characters are easy to love or hate depending on their role in the story. This book had heartbreak, romance, coming of age, and finding ones self all rolled up into a perfect package. I hope there is more to the story someday. I definitely want to see what new challenges and triumphs await these fantastic characters. Would definitely reccomend.
July 2, 2018
Josh grew up in a cult...that in itself should have prepared me for the abuse, except I was not. After a tragic event, Josh is determined to escape, but how can he leave the other children behind? It took me a while to really get into this book but so glad that I stuck with it. Josh is a good and decent young man.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
August 15, 2018
I was excited to win this book in a drawing and, although it seemed to get off with a slow start, I soon became enmeshed with the story. I cringed at Josh's extreme punishments and was pushing for him to get away from the place. On the other hand, With a few major changes, I can see the "Foundation Faith of God" religion doing a lot of good. I can only hope that the author didn't experience the cruelty growing up in it. BTW, the surprise ending is worth reading the book for!
April 11, 2021
I guess the short description of the book made it sound like being in the cult was dangerous for the main character. It wasn't the best life, but not nearly as bad as the marketing made it out to be.
However, I still liked it. I enjoyed the youth and their expressions, their interactions, their feelings toward adults and themselves, and their naivety. Oh, to be young again.
I enjoyed their coming of awareness, and how they could do better than just always giving into their anger.
Good job.
However, I still liked it. I enjoyed the youth and their expressions, their interactions, their feelings toward adults and themselves, and their naivety. Oh, to be young again.
I enjoyed their coming of awareness, and how they could do better than just always giving into their anger.
Good job.
September 22, 2020
Family, it’s important
This story allows you to realize how important. Josh is the boy in the story, no spoilers. I will say it is a good story and it showed how he grew and matured through his experience. I couldn’t stop reading after the first couple of chapters.
The human mind is amazing!
This story allows you to realize how important. Josh is the boy in the story, no spoilers. I will say it is a good story and it showed how he grew and matured through his experience. I couldn’t stop reading after the first couple of chapters.
The human mind is amazing!
March 10, 2019
My first read from author Jared Garrett. I don't restrict myself to a particular genre. I'm a sucker for anything with memorable characters and Jason Garrett's characters are memorable. Not my typical read but well-written & entertaining. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
March 23, 2023
FAbulous story about a kids life, especially the narrator's, raised in a cult.
I thank the goodreads community for finding and listening to this incredible story.
I am listening to the following book now.
I thank the goodreads community for finding and listening to this incredible story.
I am listening to the following book now.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews