"Beyond the Cabin" captured feelings and reminded me of childhood events that I had long forgotten about for years. The feelings of anger, happiness, disappointment, wonder, shock, and sadness echoed parts of my own upbringing and resurfaced fond memories that I smile about from time to time, as well as those that I had kept filed away, desperately hoping that I would never need to access those dark archives ever again.

But I didn't grow up in a cult.
In fact, I lead a relatively happy/normal nuclear childhood all things considered.

Despite this, Jared's Nathan Garrett's narrative draws from emotions that everyone can relate to, regardless of background and circumstance.
My only irk is that it wasn't longer and more detailed but I understand that writing a story based on harrowing true events like this would be emotionally tolling for anyone. Furthermore, I respect the author's decision to refrain from using his novel for revenge - a tough call given the level of depravity that these kids faced in their youth.

All in all, "Beyond the Cabin" is a beautifully written and gripping page-turner that explores the full spectrum of emotions of "growing up" - for better and for worse.