Beyond the Pine

by Kate Benson

Watch and pray that you may not enter temptation... What if in one moment, you find out your life-your entire existence was a lie? When rogue, nomad biker Asher Reed finds himself on the side of the road injured from an accident, he assumes he's taken his final ride. Waking days later in an infirmary located within a secret, religious compound, his first impulse is to run. His church had always been the road, and he, the last man who should be among the faithful. When his raven-haired caretaker appears, his instincts and everything he once believed in diminishes, leaving only temptation. The spirit indeed is willing... Riley Chapman had long ago resigned herself to a life of order, reverence, and duty. Her coveted role as assistant to the Reverend should be enough to keep her happy, content with her life. Her whole life she wondered about what was on the other side of the tree line she'd always been told would keep her safe. What if she wasn't safe anymore? But the flesh is weak. When a chance encounter pulls Asher and Riley together and temptation is too much to resist, how can they keep their dangerous secret? In a place where secrets are sins and the trustworthy can't be trusted, who will they turn to in search of salvation?

Genres: Romance

234 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2016

About the author

Kate Benson was raised in Texas and currently resides in central Florida with her husband and their furboy, Boomer. She learned to read at the age of four and has been hooked ever since.
She credits her passion for literature to her mother, her love of story-telling to her father and her unwavering faith in happily-ever-after’s to her husband, Sean.
Some of her favorite things include rainy days, loud music, superhero movies, hot tea and of course, lazy afternoons with a great book.
To find out more about Kate, her work or to just say hello, she loves hearing from her readers and can be found on social media.
Facebook: facebook.com/katebensonauthor/
Twitter: twitter.com/Katebensonauthr
Instagram: instagram.com/katebensonauthor/

Reviews

[Hooked On Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book actually gripped me and held me until the last the last word. The lies, the religion, the lust, the passion, and the taboo. There was so much in this book that just left me wanting more of Riley and Asher and just to get another glimpse into their world of love and dealing with the obstacles that were thrown at them.
I enjoyed the authors writing I was never lost, never lost interest I had to have more. I wanted there to be more. Not many can grip a reader and leave them speechless but I was left speechless and oh so satisfied with this book. Ms. Benson did not disappoint because this story had salvation it had the love but most of all it had an awesome ending.
This story I would definitely recommend because I’m pretty sure there is nothing out like this book. So if you’re looking for a great book to get into then give this book a chance because Riley and Asher will definitely find a place In your heart.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

My emotions are all over the place after finishing this book. Riley thought her life at the compound was the only way to live. That indeed was not the case. Asher's accident is terrible and the compound takes him in to heal. Riley quickly starts to learn not all is what is seems. Loyalty and friendship is the only salvation she has after what she has learned. But Asher promises to keep her safe no matter the cost. The ending is intense and emotional. Trust is something that has to be earned but once it is broken there is no going back. Another great read by this author.

[Michelle Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Beyond the Pine by Kate Benson was a great 4 star read.
This is very different than what I am used to reading. It says it’s a dark romance but I’m not sure that I agree with that. Don’t get me wrong it was great but to me dark takes a lot more than what “Beyond the Pine” gave me.

Riley Chapman is living in a community stashed away in the woods that seems like a religious cult.
She was born and raised in this community and it is all she knows.

Asher Reed is a biker that has an accident and finds himself being cared for at the compound.

When he meets Riley they both have an instant connection. Asher has never felt this way about a woman before. There is something about Riley’s innocence that draws him in. Riley is very curious about Asher and feels very drawn to him. He makes her feel things that she has never felt before.

It doesn’t take a genius to understand that she’s pure. That thought alone would make a better man write her off, brush her from his thoughts. Unfortunately, I’ve never been a very good man.

When Riley is given some news about her future she is devastated. Her future has been planned for her and it’s not what she wants. How will Asher respond to her news? Will she go through with it?

“You want something bad enough, you don’t tend to care what the rest of the world has to say about it.”

This was my first read from Kate Benson and I really enjoyed it. There are many secrets revealed that add twists to the story. And I was in tears at the end with something that really throws you for a loop. The secondary characters really added a great element. I was so happy with the ending and the epilogue was great. 1-click and get started today.



ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Beyond The Pine by Kate Benson

Review done for Hooked on Books & CherryOBlossoms Promotions

5 out of 5 stars

Riley Chapman has no idea about life outside the compound she grew up in. Riley has been brought up to serve the Lord. She has never even stepped foot outside the property.

When Riley turns 18, she is chosen to assist the Reverend. She is also betrothed to his son. Unfortunately, Riley knows that Josiah is in love with her friend Sara. She tries to convince the Reverend to change his mind but it is of no use.

To make matters worse, a gorgeous stranger is brought into the compound when he crashes his motorcycle. Asher is like no one Riley has ever met. He takes her breath away and stirs unknown feelings inside her.

Asher has never been a good man. He has always done what he has wanted. When he wakes up in a strange place, he is shocked to see the beautiful Riley. Something about her pulls at him. He knows she is pure and that he should leave her alone but he just can’t let her go.

Together they find a special love. Too bad that is against the rules of the Reverend. There is no way they can be together.

Deceit and danger are everywhere making it unsafe for Riley and Asher. No matter what, Asher is going to protect Riley. Their love is worth fighting for.

I was hestitant to read this book. The religious aspect of the book left me doubting that I would enjoy this story. Boy, was I wrong. I absolutely loved this book. Religion was a major emphasis of the story, but it didn’t overshadow anything else.

I loved the suspense, the characters, and the steamy love scenes. The author takes us on a journey through and unknown place and you can feel all the emotions that the characters feel.

I definitely recommend this book to read!

[Nikki Costello ***Crazy Cajun Book Addicts Blog*** · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a massive fan of Kate Benson and her writing style and although this book is a little different to what Kate's written before it doesn't take anything away from its awesomeness.

Riley has lived a very sheltered life in the community she lives in where as Asher is a roamer and never really stays in one place long enough to put down roots but as soon as these two meet there's this instant connection between them.

It's a story of a forbidden romance between two people that come from very different walks of life, where dark meets light and where some people arn't always what they seem.

[P. Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about a forbidden romance, its where a pure soul meets a damaged soul and its also where Evil is disguised. This is a different story then what you are use to seeing from Kate Benson but rest assured that you will not be disappointed. I loved every word in this book it had me from the first page. Riley and Asher will steal your heart, but be prepared Kate Benson never allows her readers to relax and this story is no different.

[Dawn McGill Dalrymple · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it

I've always been fascinated with cults so finding a book with a cult romance I knew I had to read it! Riley and Asher are the perfect couple. Riley so sweet and innocent and Asher so motorcycley and hot!!! They had great chemistry and !any obstacles to overcome. This book was a great getaway from our current crazy world.

[Michel Reinhard (Saucy Southern Readers) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond The Pine is the first book I have read by Kate Benson. I can honestly say that I am impressed with her gift of storytelling. I was immediately drawn into the story within the first few paragraphs. I was held captive by the characters and their story. Unlike them, I was not looking for escape. I wanted to experience every moment with them.

When I read the synopsis for Beyond The Pine, I was intrigued. Not many authors attempt this kind of story plot because of the magnitude of responsibility in building the world, creating believable characters that readers can identify with, and building sexual tension in a suppressed world is very difficult. Every passage and chapter has to be perfectly synchronized with acute timing to make this kind of story work. The author also has to be extremely careful with the religious content in the story. Kate Benson met each of these specifications and delivered a story that came alive.

Riley was born on the "farm", a religious compound hidden deep within the forest. As a member of this community, she is bound to her duties bestowed upon her by the lord and the Reverend. She has never questioned her place within the community until a stranger is taken into the infirmary after a motorcycle accident. She is drawn to this stranger and begins to defy the rules placed upon her. Asher Reed has opened Riley's heart. She's finding a desire to learn more about the world outside, she's learning the desires of the soul, and learning the desires of the body.

Asher Reed woke up in a very strange world. A world that seemed to be lost in time. It is abundantly clear that he has stumbled into a religious occult. As he recovers from his injuries, he begins questioning his own life. He has been a nomad all of his life. He belongs to a different kind of world, a world that ties him to his motorcycle club. After meeting Riley, he's willing to give up his nomadic ways and live a life of humble simplicity. She is the everything he never knew he wanted. He will do anything to keep her by his side.

The Reverend has other plans for Riley's life. Those plans don't include Asher Reed. The Reverend puts his will into motion and Riley's life is spinning out of control. The more she defy's the Reverends will, the more dangerous her life becomes. The Reverend is hiding horrific secrets that could not only destroy her life but also all of the lives in the community.

Riley and Asher are fighting for the impossible dream. Freedom is far beyond the pines.

I could not put this book down. I was glued to the pages. Kate Benson is a gifted author and I hope other readers will discover her talent.

The only thing that may be holding this book back is the cover itself. It is said the cover doesn't sell a book, it's the content that sells. I find this an untrue conception. Newer authors or lesser known authors need all the help they can get in todays competitive market. Dynamic covers capture the buyers attention. The cover for this book seems to fit Riley's character but does not attract the buyers eye. A more dynamic cover could make this book stand out on all of the retail sites.

[Three Chicks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review by Lisa Kane

Riley has spent her whole life on the religious farming community where she lives. She literally has never stepped off of it and has little knowledge of the outside world.

We'd heard stories of what happened out beyond our farm. While I'd secretly been intrigued by the promise of something different, I'd been assured nothing beyond the tree line was safe, feeding my fears.

Her mother passed away last year, and Riley trained under her tutelage for administering to the sick. Now that Riley has turned eighteen, she was hoping she would be assigned to the infirmary but Reverend Tucker wishes for her to work alongside of him. She is disappointed, but she has no say in this matter. The reverend assigns each person's task and his word as the community's leader is not to be questioned.

My mother explained it to me like a quilt.
Each square on its own was beautiful, unique even. However, in order to reach our greatest potential, we must come together, each piece completing its duty of offering warmth, comfort and a helping hand. That's what this farm, our home, had always been.

While visiting the fields and praying for the crops to receive some much needed rain, Riley hears a commotion. It seems a man, an outsider has crashed on his motorcycle and needs immediate medical attention. Riley assists and he is taken to the infirmary. She helps to get his more serious injuries treated. When he awakens he tells her his name is Asher Reed. Riley may be sheltered, but she knows when a man is handsome and she can't help but be drawn to Asher. She hasn't felt this way before in her life and she's confused by her reaction to him. (obviously lust isn't something that's discussed on the farm!)

"You should have just left me," I groan, the sight of her eyebrows quirking together doing something to me I've never experienced.
"Why on earth would you say such a thing?"
"Because," I start, shifting uncomfortably. "I'm the last person who should be among the faithful."

It seems Asher is just as attracted to her. He thinks of all the things he wants to do with her, but realizes she is pure and innocent and the furthest thing from his life-there can never be anything between them. But when the reverend tells Riley that it's time for her to take a husband and he tells her who she is to marry, things change. Asher has slowly come to care for this girl over the weeks that she has been taking care of him. This biker is no fool-there is a lot more going on in this community than meets the eye and he isn't about to let Riley be harmed in any way.

When I think about leaving this place, it doesn't feel right to do it without Riley.

But what can an outsider do when Riley's life has already been decided for her?

Beyond The Pines is a story of secrets and feelings and suspense. Things are never quite what they seem and the line of demarcation that hold the farm within the arms of the pine trees separates the world we know and the one where Riley lives. This story is going to have your heart racing, and you can't avoid trying to figure out exactly what is the truth and what is a lie. Good read!

We'd fought so hard to get here, risked so much for the life we'd found.

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

~5 ++ Stars~

“What do you want, Riley?” “To belong to you,” I admit shamelessly, returning his kiss as I slowly back into the empty stall behind us. “Even if, it’s just once, meant only for this moment, Asher. I want to be yours.”


I begin this review by saying Beyond the Pine is one of those rare, beautiful books that makes writing a review difficult. I’m not sure I have the adequate words to illustrate how moving, beautiful, and magical it truly is.

It’s a story about opposites…dark vs. light, good versus evil, tolerance vs. intolerance, and two characters who are polar opposites and come from two very different worlds. Riley is part of an isolated, religious community. Asher is the biker who never stays in one place too long until he literally crashes into Riley’s world. From their first meeting, there is a pull between the two. However, they aren’t supposed to be together, but that pull is unstoppable, despite their differences. Their love is a forbidden one as Riley’s life is determined for her by the reverend in charge of the community, and he rules his flock with an iron rod. People who defy him suffer. But, can he stop two lovers who seem destined by fate to be together? As they grow closer, lies and secrets will be exposed that will place both of them in danger.

This book is very different from the romances Benson usually writes, but you can’t compare them. They are equally awesome in their own unique ways. Readers who read this one will see just how much Benson has grown as a writer. Her descriptive writing engages all of your senses. I could clearly see the characters and the village. I could hear and feel the breezes blowing through the pines. I could feel the joy and pain of both Asher and Riley. In addition, the evil characters creeped me out and made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck. At times, the book read like poetry which made it magical. I love when writers break out of their normal stories and write something completely different. Benson has done this flawlessly, and it just proves what a talented and versatile writer she has become.

[Gemma Downing · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Reviewed by Gemma on behalf of Your Next Hot Read

I really really enjoyed this book. It had me gripped to the very end and even in the epilogue I was holding my breath waiting to find out….. ahh spoilers!

The book follows Riley Chapman, an 18 year old woman who lives a simple life in what can only be described as a commune. She lives on a farm with a community who toil the land, harvest their own crops etc. but have no electricity, mobile phones and the entire “family” revolves around Reverend Tucker “His will, my will, will be done”. Just signals trouble I know!

Asher Reed’s home and faith is in the tarmac of the open road. He is a nomad, a gypsy and answers only to himself and he likes it that way. After a nasty motorcycle accident on the edge of the pine forest, he finds himself being taken care by the community and Riley. He cannot believe it has taken him 32 years to find her but he has done and with one look he knows – she is it for him.

But with the rules of the community being finite, Riley and Asher cannot be together. Despite their deep attractions and feelings for each other, it is simply forbidden. But aren’t rules meant to be broken??

My emotions with this story were all over the place just like our leading couple. I’ve never read a book like this before and I‘m so glad I chose to take a chance on it. The alternative POV’s mean we hear from both Asher and Riley and I loved this aspect as despite the age gap, they both learn from each other. The story is written extremely well and respectfully to the religion and beliefs that are mentioned. It is a loveable read with a few twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I was able to figure things out but not exactly – it kept me guessing which I love. I just expected a bit more from the ending. I felt the build-up was brilliant and so was the epilogue but it just felt there should have been a bit more bringing the two together; hence the 4.5 stars. That being said, I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a different read and look forward to other novels from this author.

[Jae Mod · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AND HONEST REVIEW***


Having not read anything by Kate Benson before I was quite looking forward to reading ‘Beyond The Pine’ as I ad only heard great things about her books. That being said I didn't think I would enjoy this book just as much as I did, 4.5 stars.


This book is different from what I had been reading of late, different than most of whats out there just now I think and that made it that much more enjoyable. A tale of forbidden romance with so much more going on. Asher and Riley will work their way into your heart and have you taking a ride on an emotional rollercoaster.


Raised in a commune Riley is naive to the outside world and believes in the doctrine that has been fed to her all her life. However when Asher literally crashes into her life she begins to question what is true and what she wants. Never has she felt for anyone the pull and attraction that she has towards Asher and it is a struggle for her.


Being a nomadic biker Asher never really laid down roots and had no thoughts of settling down but when he crashes into the boundary of the commune and is rescued by some members his life is set to change. While recovering from his injuries Asher meets Riley and until that point he had never thought he wanted any one person or to stay in one place but the connection and feelings he has for Riley has him questioning everything.


There is a major problem in that there are plans in place for Riley set by the Reverend and Asher is in no way to be a part of them. Everything about Riley and Asher is a sin and everything is against them. Their relationship only seems to make life dangerous and difficult.


Obviously I can imagine some struggling a little with the religion in the story and I’ll admit even for me I found it a bid hard to take at times but then that is in part due to my own beliefs. However this is definitely a book that you will struggle to put it down once you start. I don't want to spoil anything but this is a book worth reading. Written in multiple points of view in a way that will keep you entertained from beginning to end.


Reviewed by Louise G.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t come across this author before but I was offered this to review so thought I would give it a whirl. At the beginning I really wasn’t sure where it was going or if it would be to my taste. The overwhelming religious aspect nearly made me quit but I’m glad I continued as it all fell into context.
Riley is the young lady who lives in a ‘commune’ known as the farm. She has a limited knowledge of life. The Reverand is so strict and rules with a very heavy threatening hand. She works in the infirmary like her mother before her.
One day a lone biker Asher, crashes near the ‘border’ and the ‘brothers’ rescue him, tend his wounds, not knowing if he will live he is taken to the infirmary. Now how Asher was found when nobody could leave the confines of the farm I’m not sure. He is a rebel, gypsy, never staying in one place kind of guy.
As soon as Riley and Asher meet there is an instant attraction, for him it’s pure lust, her beauty overpowers him. For Riley the virgin it’s a feeling she cant explain and doesn’t know how to deal with it.
Of course any kind of relationship would be frowned upon, their ‘love’ is taboo, according to commune rules Riley is promised to another man as chosen by the Reverand.
The book is written from both of the couple’s POV, it touches upon honesty, trust, love and the darker side of the farm rules and above all temptation.
By about 10% of the way in I was engrossed, there is something about a book that is possibly not going to be all sweetness and light with a guaranteed happy ending. You will have to read it to see whether things are resolved.
Whilst I really enjoyed the story I was mildly irritated by the repetition of ‘quirks’ and ‘the pad of his thumb’ I’m sure an author who can write an emotionally challenging book like this can think of a few other ways to describe things. With that aside though it is so completely different from my normal genres and well worth a read.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Hooked on Books for the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Nerdy Dirty & Flirty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really unlike anything I have read before. The synopsis was intriguing enough to have me break away from the norm and try something new. I have to say once I started I really didn't stop. This world that Riley lived in was fascinating with a tiny bit of strange and whole lot of "not in my lifetime." Riley lives a simple life, a Sister in this religious community that is completely closed off from the outside world. Being that she just turned 18 she is been given her path and just as she is settling into it a mysterious stranger is found just outside the pine.

Asher is nomad, living the life of gypsy when he thinks he has taken his last ride, only to wake up in a strange place. Obviously confused about this place that he is staying he finds a constant in Riley as well as an uncontrollable need to be with her. We don't learn a whole lot about Asher and I guess I felt like I wanted more about him from before, but I understand why it wasn't given.

Riley has lived her whole life on the other side of the pine and Asher brings out feelings and thoughts she hasn't allowed herself to have. He also brings sins with him. Being with him, even innocent, is a sin. He is not her chosen path in the only home she knows and loves. There unorthodox relationship is build around heartbreak because they can never be.

This story had a mix of emotions, a taste of the forbidden, a little taboo and mystery surrounding the good community. I found myself trying to see things through Riley's eyes and what it must be like to not know anything else. I thought the author was very respectful of their religion even though it seems strange to the average person. It was nice to have both POVs because you want the outsider's perspective. The story was well written and again not something I would have normally picked to read. I am glad I did and this is an author who I would definitely read again.

[Patti K · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a whirlwind! There is so much about this suspenseful tale that pushes all the right buttons for me. I can't say it enough, that, as far as I'm concerned, characters are everything in a story. If an author can make me feel, can induce love or hate for at least one character, then I'm usually sold. When more than one character inspires a reaction in me, then it would take some substantial displeasure about the rest of the book for me to give it less than three stars. I can't think of many times when that has happened, honestly. And in this case, we have another book which hits a bunch of other high notes.

Let's start with the setting - not only is it vivid, but it's fresh and interesting. I won't say much more, because that's another bit which appeals in this book, the unfolding of what you know or think you do. This author knows how to weave suspense, and she gets better at it all the time. For a while, I lived in the world of Riley and Asher, was enveloped by their love, and it kept me engaged to the end.

My only negative, and really, it's not enough to dock any points on a 5-point scale, was a little bit of editing. For me, it doesn't matter as much. The story was so engaging, I can overlook any imperfections. But, if you're going to be a negative nelly about that stuff, then walk away before you start, so that you don't diss a great story over your personal pet peeves. No matter what, this book would never deserve less than three stars. Period. A great story is just that, and this is a fantastic story. If you've never read Kate Benson before, this standalone is an excellent place to start. I can't wait for whatever she writes next.

[CHERRY0BLOSSOMS · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 out of 5 stars

Riley Chapman has no idea about life outside the compound she grew up in. Riley has been brought up to serve the Lord. She has never even stepped foot outside the property.

When Riley turns 18, she is chosen to assist the Reverend. She is also betrothed to his son. Unfortunately, Riley knows that Josiah is in love with her friend Sara. She tries to convince the Reverend to change his mind but it is of no use.

To make matters worse, a gorgeous stranger is brought into the compound when he crashes his motorcycle. Asher is like no one Riley has ever met. He takes her breath away and stirs unknown feelings inside her.

Asher has never been a good man. He has always done what he has wanted. When he wakes up in a strange place, he is shocked to see the beautiful Riley. Something about her pulls at him. He knows she is pure and that he should leave her alone but he just can’t let her go.

Together they find a special love. Too bad that is against the rules of the Reverend. There is no way they can be together.

Deceit and danger are everywhere making it unsafe for Riley and Asher. No matter what, Asher is going to protect Riley. Their love is worth fighting for.

I was hestitant to read this book. The religious aspect of the book left me doubting that I would enjoy this story. Boy, was I wrong. I absolutely loved this book. Religion was a major emphasis of the story, but it didn’t overshadow anything else.

I loved the suspense, the characters, and the steamy love scenes. The author takes us on a journey through and unknown place and you can feel all the emotions that the characters feel.

I definitely recommend this book to read!

[RBCRRBLOGGER · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reviewing on behalf of Relentless Book Chics Ramblings and Reviews

Riley Chapman is happy with her life in the commune where she lives. She has her faith and the people in the community have become her family. She has a coveted role as the reverends assistant and that should be enough to keep her happy but she’s always wondered what lies beyond the Pine trees, the barrier between her and the world she’s never known.

Asher Reed is a nomad biker and has no place he calls home, the road is his church. He’s injured one night when he falls off his motorbike and is found and cared for by a religious group who live beyond the pines at the side of the road.

Riley meets Asher in the infirmary and there’s something about him that fascinates her and she begins to feel things she never has before. As their friendship grows, Riley finds herself questioning everything she’s been told all her life and she soon realises that the person she’s trusted the most all her life is the most untrustworthy of them all.

Riley and Asher struggle to keep their huge secret and as they live in a place where it’s a sin to have a secret, they soon find themselves in danger and there is a possibility that one of them won’t survive.

I liked the overall story but there were some elements in the book that I struggled with which made it difficult for me to connect with the main characters.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riley Chapman lives a severe life of order, reverence, and duty. She holds the best position as the assistant to the Reverend, but she finds herself longing for more (Cue Little Mermaid song). Her life takes on new meaning when a mysterious man is found in the woods, after wrecking his bike. Nomad biker Asher Reed is convinced he's taken his final ride after he crashes his bike, instead, he wakes up in an infirmary within the walls of a secret, religious order. Asher's ready to run asap, until a raven haired angel appears to take care of him. Now he finds himself staying, as his connection to her is too strong. Their attraction can't be denied, and the temptation is too great, so they give in. As things take a dangerous turn, who can they trust to help them?!

I have to start out by saying that Beyond The Pine is the most original book that I've read this year! The character development is good, with a very intriguing cast of secondaries. Kate Benson's talented writing style weaved twists and turns like a boss, some easy to guess, some not so much. It made for intense OMG moments that had me talking and yelling out loud at the story. It took me a bit to become fully invested in the characters, and the ending seemed a bit rushed, but all in all, a great story that peeps will never see coming. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[MJ's Book Blog and Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review by: Melanie
(4.5 stars)

I'd never read any of Kate Benson's books before Beyond the Pine. The blurb didn't sound like anything I'd normally read. But there was something about this book that made me think.. why not? Let's give it a go.

I am really happy I did, as I couldn't put it down.

The characters and story drew me in from the start, and I could just feel it in the writing that something was going to happen. And not all of it was going to be good, for the characters at least, lol. That's what kept me reading, the thought of what's going to happen? How will ... be resolved? Will Riley and Asher find a way to get through it all in one piece? I have to admit, I had my doubts at one point but of course that's a mark of a good story teller, to keep you guessing until the very end. I won't say which way it went of course, because you need to read it yourself to find that out.

I don't know if Kate Benson will take this world she created any further, but if she does I will be reading to find out what happens next. I thoroughly enjoyed Beyond the Pine and give it 4.5 stars.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd never read any of Kate Benson's books before Beyond the Pine. The blurb didn't sound like anything I'd normally read. But there was something about this book that made me think.. why not? Let's give it a go.

I am really happy I did, as I couldn't put it down.

The characters and story drew me in from the start, and I could just feel it in the writing that something was going to happen. And not all of it was going to be good, for the characters at least, lol. That's what kept me reading, the thought of what's going to happen? How will ... be resolved? Will Riley and Asher find a way to get through it all in one piece? I have to admit, I had my doubts at one point but of course that's a mark of a good story teller, to keep you guessing until the very end. I won't say which way it went of course, because you need to read it yourself to find that out.

I don't know if Kate Benson will take this world she created any further, but if she does I will be reading to find out what happens next. I thoroughly enjoyed Beyond the Pine and give it 4.5 stars.

[Lita Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Beyond the Pine by Kate Benson is an interesting story of a girl name Riley who has spent her entire life living in a religious compound I call The Farm. One day as she and the Reverend were inspecting the east side were the garden was they hear a cry for help. Just outside the Farm they find a man injured from a motorcycle accident. Taking him to the infirmary Asher finds himself teleported to a time long gone. He however sees Riley and has an instant attraction to him. She has an attraction to Asher but she knows she lives her life according to the laws of the Farm and the farm is the Reverend. What the Reverend says goes and he alone decides your life’s path regardless to your wishes. This is a story of forbidden love. What can two people do when they cannot follow their own heart? What can they do when their life is not their own? This story was a departure from any other story I have read. Asher and Riley made for a good read and the story had some twist and turns. I was given an Arc of the book for an honest review. I give this story 3.5 stars.

[Annamaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Forbidden Stars! Kate is living a very sheltered life from the outside world. She is living on a farm where she works in the infirmary and with the reverend. One day while in the fields she hears a commotion and finds a man who was injured after a motorcycle crash. Asher finds himself falling for Kate and they they have a mutual attraction towards one another. Their love is forbidden, secretive and mysterious so what will they do to have their happily ever after? The author takes us through twists and turns that will make you want to know more. The characters were great and the plot is one that I will never forget. Ms. Benson writes a fantastic story and I want to read more books by this author. I highly recommend this book and suggest you one click it!

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and review by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

Plot: 5+
Chemistry: 5+
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5

[Charlotte Spence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Benson has done it again with another amazing story. Beyond the Pine is totally different from Kate's usual writing. This is a powerful read about a forbidden romance. When Asher and Riley meet by accident and are drawn to each, will their opposite lifestyles! Will they be able to fight their feelings and go their own ways or will their love and fate keeping them together to live a new life and bring new begins? Kate has you gripped again, getting you drawn into the story that you can't put it down. You just don't know what is coming next. Can't wait to see what Kate comes up with next.

[Heather Heck · Rating 5 out of 5]

The storyline of Beyond the Pine was very different from most books I've read, and it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!
Kate Benson can write any type of story and find a way to draw you in and keep you hanging til the last word!
Asher and Riley are the most unlikely of couples on the surface but deep down they share an unbelievable connection. The differences of their worlds test their faith and desires over and over and set out to destroy that connection.
But can true love really ever be denied?!
I 100% recommend reading this story, it's definitely 5 stars all the way!!!

[Katie Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

5*****read

I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this book and I couldn't wait to get stuck in.

As usual I was not disappointed in this book at all it was brilliant. Full of what Kate does best... Supplying us with angst, love and plot twists.

The characters were extremely loveably, strong and weren't afraid to show their weaknesses no matter what gets thrown at them. The plot will have you gripped and you won't be able to put it down.

[Kim Quick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

When I first started reading it, it was not what I was expecting at all, having read all of Kate's previous works. It was vastly different from what I'd come to expect from her, but in the best way possible! It was amazing! The more I read, the more I absolutely fell in love with Asher and Riley. That reverend though... I kind of wanted God to smite him something fierce!

Love, love, love this story! Thank you Kate for sharing these amazing characters with me.

[Stacy Aube · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for a honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Stacy Aube for Cutting Muse Blog Review.

Riley has lived her life sheltered from the outside world. Living on the farm you have no choices.
Asher had an accident just beyond the border where they find him and help him heal. The emotions between the two are inspiring. The troubles they face are fearless.
Overall a great book.

[Karen James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wasnt sure where this one was going !

Reviewed for hooked on books & cherry0blossom promotions.

Such a sad story of Riley Chapman friends an family in a community that was so misguided, asher comes along at such an important time. Along with the corruption this story also comes the loyalty love and commitment.

[Jecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty

[Sarah]

A book that didn't leave me in tears by the wonderful Kate thanks fr letting me know about this book I loved it Asher sounds quite rough but manly and Riley is just sweet and innocent