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A Classic Retold
Break the Beast
Who is to say who is the real beast?
Grendel haunts the land of Frisia in a restless need for vengeance on the human world that has rejected her. With a fiendish master urging her on, she attacks without fear of repercussion.
But the arrival of a foreign prince causes Grendel to doubt her invulnerability. Beowulf is renowned for killing monsters, and he can have only one purpose in visiting to break her hellish reign.
When the inevitable confrontation occurs, the battle between man and beast will change both their lives forever as they find themselves thrust into a quest for truth neither could have anticipated.
Allison Tebo re-imagines the ancient legend of Beowulf in an epic story of redemption and grace in a high-stakes fantasy adventure.
Grendel haunts the land of Frisia in a restless need for vengeance on the human world that has rejected her. With a fiendish master urging her on, she attacks without fear of repercussion.
But the arrival of a foreign prince causes Grendel to doubt her invulnerability. Beowulf is renowned for killing monsters, and he can have only one purpose in visiting to break her hellish reign.
When the inevitable confrontation occurs, the battle between man and beast will change both their lives forever as they find themselves thrust into a quest for truth neither could have anticipated.
Allison Tebo re-imagines the ancient legend of Beowulf in an epic story of redemption and grace in a high-stakes fantasy adventure.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2023
29 people are currently reading
1621 people want to read
About the author
Allison Tebo
30 books469 followersI am no longer accepting friend requests, but do feel free to follow.
Allison Tebo is a Christian writer committed to creating magical stories full of larger-than-life characters, a dash of grit, and plenty of laughs. She is the author of Break the Beast, an epic fantasy retelling of Beowulf, and the Tales of Ambia, a series of romantic comedy retellings of popular fairy tales. Her flash fiction has been published in magazines such as SplicketySpark and Saddlebag Dispatches and her short stories have been featured in anthologies by Inklings Press, Rogue Blades Entertainment, Pole to Pole Publishing, Editing Mee, Dragon Soul Press, and Ye Olde Dragons Publishing.
Allison also writes under the pseudonym Al Thibeaux and co-runs the speculative fiction e-zine Worlds of Adventure.
Allison graduated with merit from London Art College after studying cartooning and children’s illustration and, when not creating new worlds with words or paint, she enjoys reading, baking, and making lists.
You can find out more about her work at https://allisonteboauthor.com/ or follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/allisonteboauthor/
Allison Tebo is a Christian writer committed to creating magical stories full of larger-than-life characters, a dash of grit, and plenty of laughs. She is the author of Break the Beast, an epic fantasy retelling of Beowulf, and the Tales of Ambia, a series of romantic comedy retellings of popular fairy tales. Her flash fiction has been published in magazines such as SplicketySpark and Saddlebag Dispatches and her short stories have been featured in anthologies by Inklings Press, Rogue Blades Entertainment, Pole to Pole Publishing, Editing Mee, Dragon Soul Press, and Ye Olde Dragons Publishing.
Allison also writes under the pseudonym Al Thibeaux and co-runs the speculative fiction e-zine Worlds of Adventure.
Allison graduated with merit from London Art College after studying cartooning and children’s illustration and, when not creating new worlds with words or paint, she enjoys reading, baking, and making lists.
You can find out more about her work at https://allisonteboauthor.com/ or follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/allisonteboauthor/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 4, 2023
This isn't the first time a writer attempts to give Grendel a POV to tell his side of the story, but it's the first time someone makes Grendel into a woman.
In the original epic poem, Beowulf, it's not clear what kind of creature Grendel is, at least not to lay readers like me, for I'm sure scholars do have a better idea of what Grendel is. Personally, I visualise him as a monstrous giant, troll-like and shadowy, based on the Seamus Heaney translation that is the only one I've ever read, which gives Grendel a shadowy humanlike appearance in the only passage in the poem where he is described (somewhat). This monster is said to descend from Cain, the first murderer in history according to the Bible, and is surrounded by the imagery of the gigantic and evil Antediluvian offspring of the fallen angels and human women told in the Book of Genesis, and following Cain's legacy, is envious and resentful of humanity as he thinks they're happy and blessed by God whilst he's cursed, lonely, and hated, so he attacks and murders them in revenge, only to eventually face Beowulf, the hero of light, and be defeated.
I think knowing this Biblical subtext is immensely helpful to contextualise the changes Allison Tebo has introduced in her retelling, especially for those readers that aren't familiar with Judeo-Christian lore and thus might feel Break the Beast has too much religion for their comfort. The original poem itself contains the struggle of Pagan and Christian worldviews and a strong religious imagery, so even though Tebo did make this a somewhat more Christian story with her spin on it, it's not like that came out of the blue and with no basis on the original epic.
That said, Break the Beast is Grendel's story. And here it's a female Grendel that we meet. Why and how? Because of "Beauty and the Beast," of which this retelling has some elements, but not that many as it is fundamentally a Beowulf retelling first and foremost, so I don't recommend you approach this expecting B&B. However, thematically the fairy tale does fit, because what it gets from B&B is Grendel's redemption.
Normally, what authors get from B&B is the romance, the love that transforms, but rarely do they understand the redemptive theme of the fairy tale. Tebo did, much to my joy! She took the Cain & Abel biblical story from the epic poem and decided to redeem Grendel through love. And no, I'm not talking about romantic love here, praise Jesus. Can you imagine a romance between Grendel and Beowulf? *quietly makes the vade retro Satana sign at the thought.*
Remember Grendel's motives for being so murderous and destructive in the epic? It's due to a curse on the little monster. And remember Grendel's mother that eggs him on in the poem? She's even worse than him. Tebo takes these elements to create a tale of compassion for the cursed, the downtrodden, the fallen, and thus we see genuine love and care seeping into Grendel's corrupted core and transforming her, redeeming her, making her rise above and beyond her twisted origins. I'm not going to describe it at length, but suffice to say that the Grendel you'll meet here is like the Grendel in the poem at the start, but different by the end. And that is also because she has something of another character from the poem I won't name to avoid spoilers.
In the poem, Beowulf has three tasks, and thus the poem is divided in three parts dedicated to each monster slayed. Accordingly, this retelling also has 3 parts, and it also follows the three monster-slaying storyline, with differences. The timeline is also altered because the poem spans more time and goes into Beowulf's old age, which this retelling doesn't. The finale is also different, and there's where I'm not entirely happy. I'm happy with Grendel's transformation, yes, it's touching and well-written, but not happy with Beowulf's ending, as I believe that last-minute twist shouldn't have been introduced.
I also would've preferred if the authorial notes talked more about the process of creating this story and why this went for redemption instead of giving so much time to explaining the change of place names. I mean, how is it relevant that Heorot was changed to Trollhattan exactly? Judging by the other reviews, I seem to be the only one who understood what the aim of the story was, and that's merely because I'm familiar with Beowulf the poem and the Biblical subtext plus the fairy tale, which other readers won't be, so an explanation in the authorial notes would've been much more useful, in my opinion.
Anyway, I came out of this mostly satisfied, niggling ending mindbug aside. I've had my share of B&B retellings, but so far I've not found one that doesn't include romance of some sort, so that's my biggest source of happiness. "Wait," you'll say, "can B&B actually work without romance between Beauty and Beast?" And my answer is a resounding It can! Because love isn't only romance, love has more manifestations than that between two individuals for sexual purposes. "Love is patient and kind." And it's this patient kindness what makes Grendel become what she does here, the same patient kindness that uncurses Beast. So, yes, love doesn't need to be romantic to break the beast, it only needs to exist and be shown.
4.5 stars it is!
(B&B Fangirly Post-Script: Pssst, if some of my author friends want to write a bromance B&B retelling, I'm all ears and promise to cheerlead you for life!)
In the original epic poem, Beowulf, it's not clear what kind of creature Grendel is, at least not to lay readers like me, for I'm sure scholars do have a better idea of what Grendel is. Personally, I visualise him as a monstrous giant, troll-like and shadowy, based on the Seamus Heaney translation that is the only one I've ever read, which gives Grendel a shadowy humanlike appearance in the only passage in the poem where he is described (somewhat). This monster is said to descend from Cain, the first murderer in history according to the Bible, and is surrounded by the imagery of the gigantic and evil Antediluvian offspring of the fallen angels and human women told in the Book of Genesis, and following Cain's legacy, is envious and resentful of humanity as he thinks they're happy and blessed by God whilst he's cursed, lonely, and hated, so he attacks and murders them in revenge, only to eventually face Beowulf, the hero of light, and be defeated.
I think knowing this Biblical subtext is immensely helpful to contextualise the changes Allison Tebo has introduced in her retelling, especially for those readers that aren't familiar with Judeo-Christian lore and thus might feel Break the Beast has too much religion for their comfort. The original poem itself contains the struggle of Pagan and Christian worldviews and a strong religious imagery, so even though Tebo did make this a somewhat more Christian story with her spin on it, it's not like that came out of the blue and with no basis on the original epic.
That said, Break the Beast is Grendel's story. And here it's a female Grendel that we meet. Why and how? Because of "Beauty and the Beast," of which this retelling has some elements, but not that many as it is fundamentally a Beowulf retelling first and foremost, so I don't recommend you approach this expecting B&B. However, thematically the fairy tale does fit, because what it gets from B&B is Grendel's redemption.
Normally, what authors get from B&B is the romance, the love that transforms, but rarely do they understand the redemptive theme of the fairy tale. Tebo did, much to my joy! She took the Cain & Abel biblical story from the epic poem and decided to redeem Grendel through love. And no, I'm not talking about romantic love here, praise Jesus. Can you imagine a romance between Grendel and Beowulf? *quietly makes the vade retro Satana sign at the thought.*
Remember Grendel's motives for being so murderous and destructive in the epic? It's due to a curse on the little monster. And remember Grendel's mother that eggs him on in the poem? She's even worse than him. Tebo takes these elements to create a tale of compassion for the cursed, the downtrodden, the fallen, and thus we see genuine love and care seeping into Grendel's corrupted core and transforming her, redeeming her, making her rise above and beyond her twisted origins. I'm not going to describe it at length, but suffice to say that the Grendel you'll meet here is like the Grendel in the poem at the start, but different by the end. And that is also because she has something of another character from the poem I won't name to avoid spoilers.
In the poem, Beowulf has three tasks, and thus the poem is divided in three parts dedicated to each monster slayed. Accordingly, this retelling also has 3 parts, and it also follows the three monster-slaying storyline, with differences. The timeline is also altered because the poem spans more time and goes into Beowulf's old age, which this retelling doesn't. The finale is also different, and there's where I'm not entirely happy. I'm happy with Grendel's transformation, yes, it's touching and well-written, but not happy with Beowulf's ending, as I believe that last-minute twist shouldn't have been introduced.
I also would've preferred if the authorial notes talked more about the process of creating this story and why this went for redemption instead of giving so much time to explaining the change of place names. I mean, how is it relevant that Heorot was changed to Trollhattan exactly? Judging by the other reviews, I seem to be the only one who understood what the aim of the story was, and that's merely because I'm familiar with Beowulf the poem and the Biblical subtext plus the fairy tale, which other readers won't be, so an explanation in the authorial notes would've been much more useful, in my opinion.
Anyway, I came out of this mostly satisfied, niggling ending mindbug aside. I've had my share of B&B retellings, but so far I've not found one that doesn't include romance of some sort, so that's my biggest source of happiness. "Wait," you'll say, "can B&B actually work without romance between Beauty and Beast?" And my answer is a resounding It can! Because love isn't only romance, love has more manifestations than that between two individuals for sexual purposes. "Love is patient and kind." And it's this patient kindness what makes Grendel become what she does here, the same patient kindness that uncurses Beast. So, yes, love doesn't need to be romantic to break the beast, it only needs to exist and be shown.
4.5 stars it is!
(B&B Fangirly Post-Script: Pssst, if some of my author friends want to write a bromance B&B retelling, I'm all ears and promise to cheerlead you for life!)
November 10, 2023
Grendel feels rejected by the humans. And her mother/master makes it clear that she should get back at the humans and take the throne for herself. So Grendel lashes out at the humans without fear, destroys and takes what she can. To get what she deserves.
The human king sends for a beast slayer, Beowulf. And Grendel immediately realizes that she’s no match for this man. But her mother fills her up with rage and convinces her to attack him anyway. What could possibly go wrong?
I’ve never read the original story of Beowulf, so I can’t say how this story compares to the original. Judging this book by its own merits though, it’s quite a strong and very entertaining story. Which for me is the most important thing. And it also seems to be inspired a little bit by Beauty and the Beast, though reversed.
One thing I have to say is how great the writing is. Allison Tebo really shows off her skills as a writer here. The way she sets the mood and the tone of the story in the beginning is expertly done. And the way she introduces the two protagonists really showcases just how much she’s become a master of her craft.
There is a lot of religion to be found here. Maybe a bit too much for my personal taste. I’ve no idea if this is true to the original or not, just be aware that it’s there. A lot of it. And it’s absolutely essential to both the plot and the protagonist’s character arc. It also has to be said that this story could have actually ended around the halfway mark. I think that would have been another satisfying way to end it as a novella.
Overall, a solid and well written Beowulf retelling. The setting is very atmospheric and elevates the story at hand. The action scenes are quite gripping. And the introspective nature of the protagonist’s character arc is surprising but done quite well.
The human king sends for a beast slayer, Beowulf. And Grendel immediately realizes that she’s no match for this man. But her mother fills her up with rage and convinces her to attack him anyway. What could possibly go wrong?
I’ve never read the original story of Beowulf, so I can’t say how this story compares to the original. Judging this book by its own merits though, it’s quite a strong and very entertaining story. Which for me is the most important thing. And it also seems to be inspired a little bit by Beauty and the Beast, though reversed.
One thing I have to say is how great the writing is. Allison Tebo really shows off her skills as a writer here. The way she sets the mood and the tone of the story in the beginning is expertly done. And the way she introduces the two protagonists really showcases just how much she’s become a master of her craft.
There is a lot of religion to be found here. Maybe a bit too much for my personal taste. I’ve no idea if this is true to the original or not, just be aware that it’s there. A lot of it. And it’s absolutely essential to both the plot and the protagonist’s character arc. It also has to be said that this story could have actually ended around the halfway mark. I think that would have been another satisfying way to end it as a novella.
Overall, a solid and well written Beowulf retelling. The setting is very atmospheric and elevates the story at hand. The action scenes are quite gripping. And the introspective nature of the protagonist’s character arc is surprising but done quite well.
July 15, 2025
Boring retelling with a straightforward religious propaganda.
The book is well-written - the language and stylisation are very good, but the story itself is dull, and the characters aren't interesting. And the main problem is that Grendel from a ferocious monster turned into a whining, scared and always crying girl who falls in love with Beowulf with an adoration of a retarded puppy. + I have nothing against religion but this book talks about nothing but the power of prayer, Almighty and how he going to save us all.
The book is well-written - the language and stylisation are very good, but the story itself is dull, and the characters aren't interesting. And the main problem is that Grendel from a ferocious monster turned into a whining, scared and always crying girl who falls in love with Beowulf with an adoration of a retarded puppy. + I have nothing against religion but this book talks about nothing but the power of prayer, Almighty and how he going to save us all.
June 21, 2023
WE HAS A COVER, PRECIOUS.
And preorders are now live!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C8K839DP?...
Will update soon with some trigger warnings but, for now, please enjoy the pretty picture.
And preorders are now live!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C8K839DP?...
Will update soon with some trigger warnings but, for now, please enjoy the pretty picture.
August 12, 2024
Any attempt to retell a classic has to deal with the fact that classics did, in fact, have historical context. It makes or breaks a classic retelling, especially for these epic poems. It’s part of why most Greek mythology retellings fall so very flat—they willfully choose not to pay attention to the history and the culture that creates the epic in the first place.
Allison Tebo does not fall into that trap. She does an absolutely wonderful job in this book of telling a classic story in a new way without losing the original context and culture. I think there are a handful of places that could’ve been a little bit more Olde Britain, but also this was a fantasy world. It was beautifully done.
My biggest hang up was pacing—always hard in a character driven story like this, and I can definitely tell where the pace lags and struggles. But overall, this was a beautiful tale of redemption and healing and NO ROMANCE. BLESS
Allison Tebo does not fall into that trap. She does an absolutely wonderful job in this book of telling a classic story in a new way without losing the original context and culture. I think there are a handful of places that could’ve been a little bit more Olde Britain, but also this was a fantasy world. It was beautifully done.
My biggest hang up was pacing—always hard in a character driven story like this, and I can definitely tell where the pace lags and struggles. But overall, this was a beautiful tale of redemption and healing and NO ROMANCE. BLESS
September 26, 2023
This story is STUNNING.
I have not read something of recent years that has the meaty feel of a classic as you weigh it in your heart. This book is one that I will cherish and already cannot wait to share with my children one day. Not being familiar with the source material (as I was) will not affect your reading negatively in the least and I found it gripping in that respect.
The allegorical details of this story cannot go amiss and were ones that encouraged my soul as well as my mind on more than one occasion. Filled with highlightable moments and quotes throughout, this book was one that left me with something to think about beyond just turning the last page and putting it on a shelf.
It's the kind of book you don't forget easily. One that sticks with you, comes back to remind you of certain truths and fills you with a courage you didn't now you had.
Beautiful, thought-provoking and vivid, the prose was deep and gorgeous and reminds me of classics I would pour over as a teen. Highly recommend this to anyone, even if you aren't a fantasy lover. It has many of the same attributes of something like Narnia. It reminds you of a higher power and fills you with courage to face your next battle.
I have not read something of recent years that has the meaty feel of a classic as you weigh it in your heart. This book is one that I will cherish and already cannot wait to share with my children one day. Not being familiar with the source material (as I was) will not affect your reading negatively in the least and I found it gripping in that respect.
The allegorical details of this story cannot go amiss and were ones that encouraged my soul as well as my mind on more than one occasion. Filled with highlightable moments and quotes throughout, this book was one that left me with something to think about beyond just turning the last page and putting it on a shelf.
It's the kind of book you don't forget easily. One that sticks with you, comes back to remind you of certain truths and fills you with a courage you didn't now you had.
Beautiful, thought-provoking and vivid, the prose was deep and gorgeous and reminds me of classics I would pour over as a teen. Highly recommend this to anyone, even if you aren't a fantasy lover. It has many of the same attributes of something like Narnia. It reminds you of a higher power and fills you with courage to face your next battle.
October 3, 2023
With tense prose and deep emotion, Tebo retells the epic Beowulf in a brutal reflection of a soul lost and embittered by the darkness of humanity and the inevitable clash with a goodness too pure for this world. The struggles of Grendel may be familiar to many, and the nobility of Beowulf, a true hero, may stir a longing for something greater than they know.
August 26, 2023
This book broke the beast within me.
I’m not a cryer. I’m a picker reader, hard to please. So books rarely move me, let alone to tears. And yet…I wept several times reading Break the Beast. It was that masterful.
Poignant and powerful are the main two descriptors I have for Allison Tebo’s newest novel. I binged it in under 24 hrs, and was taking screenshots galore that my storage is all used up on my device. Every other page of my digital ARC was as quotable as The Book Thief, or even a work of Tolkien. I actually would have been tempted to mark up a physical copy with stickies and ink if I had one. (To which I WILL be purchasing BtB. I have shelf space ready for it.)
I wasn’t that familiar with the original legend before this, and so I think it’s safe to say that Tebo’s take on Beowulf and Grendel won over my interest more than its predecessor. Her version is almost a mix of heavy symbolism and hard, tangible allegory. Beowulf came across as this mysterious Christophany figure, and Grendel…Tebo’s decision to tell the tale from her perspective was hands down the best decision the authoress could have made.
**SLIGHT SPOILERS**, but her take on Grendel was basically the journey of a girl being saved from her inner monster, and then being convicted/called to slay beasts and set captives free. This whole book felt like the testimony of every daughter (or even son) of God, through each stage of life, and gave light to the spiritual warfare all of His children must face.
I can’t recommend BtB enough. What a fantastic debut to this brand new, multi-author series by Allison Tebo.
I’m not a cryer. I’m a picker reader, hard to please. So books rarely move me, let alone to tears. And yet…I wept several times reading Break the Beast. It was that masterful.
Poignant and powerful are the main two descriptors I have for Allison Tebo’s newest novel. I binged it in under 24 hrs, and was taking screenshots galore that my storage is all used up on my device. Every other page of my digital ARC was as quotable as The Book Thief, or even a work of Tolkien. I actually would have been tempted to mark up a physical copy with stickies and ink if I had one. (To which I WILL be purchasing BtB. I have shelf space ready for it.)
I wasn’t that familiar with the original legend before this, and so I think it’s safe to say that Tebo’s take on Beowulf and Grendel won over my interest more than its predecessor. Her version is almost a mix of heavy symbolism and hard, tangible allegory. Beowulf came across as this mysterious Christophany figure, and Grendel…Tebo’s decision to tell the tale from her perspective was hands down the best decision the authoress could have made.
**SLIGHT SPOILERS**, but her take on Grendel was basically the journey of a girl being saved from her inner monster, and then being convicted/called to slay beasts and set captives free. This whole book felt like the testimony of every daughter (or even son) of God, through each stage of life, and gave light to the spiritual warfare all of His children must face.
I can’t recommend BtB enough. What a fantastic debut to this brand new, multi-author series by Allison Tebo.
August 29, 2023
Tebo has woven a lyrical, fast-paced twist on one of literature's oldest tales. It's pages brim with action, redemption, monsters and those who hunt them, new beginnings, and eternal love. This page-turner is sure to please.
September 25, 2023
I have no words. 😭
While Tebo usually writes whimsical, light hearted fairytale retellings, Break the Beast was grittier. Harder. Deeper. Profound. Breaking & healing. Breathtaking really.
We often read from the perspective of the hero, but what of the monster? After Grendel is redeemed, what then? After so much breaking & destruction, can she heal… can she ever look at her face & see something more than a monster?
The heart of the story struck me to the core. Allison encapsulated the truth of freedom & redemption in a brilliant allegory (using Beowulf as a wonderful Christ figure) to show how Christ redeems us. Of how the breaking ends & the healing begins. Of finding our true belonging. Of learning what it means to live in the light. And in the end it is because of Christ’s redemption we can look in the mirror, and instead of a monster, see a beloved child of the Almighty.
That ending. I wept profusely. 😭 This is one of those stories that broke me & put me back together. 💛 A story that gripped my heart, and reminded me that because of Jesus, I no longer need to fear the reflection in the mirror. I can truly say with Grendel:: “I am nothing—it is true… but he made me something.”
While Tebo usually writes whimsical, light hearted fairytale retellings, Break the Beast was grittier. Harder. Deeper. Profound. Breaking & healing. Breathtaking really.
We often read from the perspective of the hero, but what of the monster? After Grendel is redeemed, what then? After so much breaking & destruction, can she heal… can she ever look at her face & see something more than a monster?
The heart of the story struck me to the core. Allison encapsulated the truth of freedom & redemption in a brilliant allegory (using Beowulf as a wonderful Christ figure) to show how Christ redeems us. Of how the breaking ends & the healing begins. Of finding our true belonging. Of learning what it means to live in the light. And in the end it is because of Christ’s redemption we can look in the mirror, and instead of a monster, see a beloved child of the Almighty.
That ending. I wept profusely. 😭 This is one of those stories that broke me & put me back together. 💛 A story that gripped my heart, and reminded me that because of Jesus, I no longer need to fear the reflection in the mirror. I can truly say with Grendel:: “I am nothing—it is true… but he made me something.”
October 4, 2023
This book is not an escape, one to wrap around oneself like bubble wrap against the world’s fire and swords. No, it’s one that holds a cultural mirror in front of you, forcing you to confront the insidious mindsets and worldviews viciously embedded into our culture.
It’s a convicting book, and a needed book, and a sharp book. Emotional. Painful. Crushing, tossing, wild rage at the covering being ripped off and exposing neediness, weakness, vulnerability beneath it.
But then it’s also lyrical and warm, introspective and deep. First-person present doesn’t always work, but it does here for the most part. Sometimes I felt it was a bit too emotional (because not everyone can relate to the same emotional experience), but that’s a very small thing. It’s good.
And the story doesn’t stop with the monster’s redemption, which I love. There’s no misleading sheen of never-ending prosperity for walking the narrow path. After Grendel wakes to the light, she wrestles with the guilt and shame and fear of disappointing Beowulf, the “need” to be “worthy” of what’s been done for her, what’s been given to us. And the implication is she’ll deal with this on and off throughout her life.
But the light isn’t choked.
Christ is with us, and he gives us what we need to cling to him, even when the darkness scrabbles at our defenses and seeks to wrap itself around us in a brutal, crushing hold.
This a beautiful story. Emotional and heavy, but the truth and light isn’t doused. And it’s deeply encouraging.
⚔️ content: violence and blood (but never gratuitous or inordinately graphic) ⚔️
It’s a convicting book, and a needed book, and a sharp book. Emotional. Painful. Crushing, tossing, wild rage at the covering being ripped off and exposing neediness, weakness, vulnerability beneath it.
But then it’s also lyrical and warm, introspective and deep. First-person present doesn’t always work, but it does here for the most part. Sometimes I felt it was a bit too emotional (because not everyone can relate to the same emotional experience), but that’s a very small thing. It’s good.
And the story doesn’t stop with the monster’s redemption, which I love. There’s no misleading sheen of never-ending prosperity for walking the narrow path. After Grendel wakes to the light, she wrestles with the guilt and shame and fear of disappointing Beowulf, the “need” to be “worthy” of what’s been done for her, what’s been given to us. And the implication is she’ll deal with this on and off throughout her life.
But the light isn’t choked.
Christ is with us, and he gives us what we need to cling to him, even when the darkness scrabbles at our defenses and seeks to wrap itself around us in a brutal, crushing hold.
This a beautiful story. Emotional and heavy, but the truth and light isn’t doused. And it’s deeply encouraging.
⚔️ content: violence and blood (but never gratuitous or inordinately graphic) ⚔️
June 26, 2024
My favorite read of 2023, hands down.
Break the Beast is a true story. It’s fiction. It’s fantasy. And it’s brimming with the nature of reality—not spoken in a sermon, but lived and breathed and fought.
Tebo masterfully depicts the universal battle of good vs evil in a way that surprised me with the truth I thought I already knew and compelled a longing to press deeper into the gospel I thought I already grasped.
This story has one of the most universally "relatable" characters I've seen, someone who meets you where you are and portrays the bondage and self-delusion of sin with stark transparency. It also has one of the most refreshingly bright and beautiful heroes I've ever seen, someone who demonstrates virtue as strong, winsome, and humming with radiant life.
Break the Beast made me want to be more aware of my own emptiness so that I could be filled. It portrayed evil as unequivocally evil, but also as the catalyst for compassion—a compassion portrayed SO beautifully, not as an attitude of pity from someone who's glad they're not you, but as a strong and selfless love that sacrifices itself to offer dignity. It made me pray to see people as God sees them and love them as He does. It made me long to see God as he is, and hope that as He lives through me that others will see it too.
Break the Beast is a true story. It’s fiction. It’s fantasy. And it’s brimming with the nature of reality—not spoken in a sermon, but lived and breathed and fought.
Tebo masterfully depicts the universal battle of good vs evil in a way that surprised me with the truth I thought I already knew and compelled a longing to press deeper into the gospel I thought I already grasped.
This story has one of the most universally "relatable" characters I've seen, someone who meets you where you are and portrays the bondage and self-delusion of sin with stark transparency. It also has one of the most refreshingly bright and beautiful heroes I've ever seen, someone who demonstrates virtue as strong, winsome, and humming with radiant life.
Break the Beast made me want to be more aware of my own emptiness so that I could be filled. It portrayed evil as unequivocally evil, but also as the catalyst for compassion—a compassion portrayed SO beautifully, not as an attitude of pity from someone who's glad they're not you, but as a strong and selfless love that sacrifices itself to offer dignity. It made me pray to see people as God sees them and love them as He does. It made me long to see God as he is, and hope that as He lives through me that others will see it too.
September 15, 2023
Sharp as a sermon, soft as a song.
If I had the chance to put three novels into the hands of every young Christian, I would give them The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Pilgrim’s Progress, and Break the Beast. Never have I seen the struggle of redemption so beautifully portrayed on the page. I had tears in my eyes from chapter one.
With the ancient epic of Beowulf as her guide, Allison Tebo weaves an unforgettable tale of captivity, shame, and redemption. Break the Beast is a sweeping internal journey that masterfully convicts and compels, and ultimately, comforts, her readers. Her characters are tangible, her themes poignant, and her prose poetic.
From its haunting settings to its riveting plot, and finally to its breathtaking conclusion, Break the Beast is a must-read, and a book that I know I will revisit again and again.
If I had the chance to put three novels into the hands of every young Christian, I would give them The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Pilgrim’s Progress, and Break the Beast. Never have I seen the struggle of redemption so beautifully portrayed on the page. I had tears in my eyes from chapter one.
With the ancient epic of Beowulf as her guide, Allison Tebo weaves an unforgettable tale of captivity, shame, and redemption. Break the Beast is a sweeping internal journey that masterfully convicts and compels, and ultimately, comforts, her readers. Her characters are tangible, her themes poignant, and her prose poetic.
From its haunting settings to its riveting plot, and finally to its breathtaking conclusion, Break the Beast is a must-read, and a book that I know I will revisit again and again.
July 11, 2024
This story.
This is a retelling of Beowulf with a delightful twist of telling the story through the point-of-view of a female Grendel, and I barely even know where to begin. It's one of those stories you have to experience, and what an experience it is. It starts off with a bang and carries you through heartache and action and disaster and healing. The allegorical threads of our beastly nature being stripped away so we may be made a new creature by our Savior are impacting and flow so naturally throughout the story.
Every page, every beautiful, sharp word, cuts straight to the heart, making the reader bleed, only for the story to pour salve into the wound.
Grendel herself is such a relatable character as she wrestles with her beastly nature and takes the hard path of redemption, failing and rising again in turn.
Then we have dear Beowulf. Brave, hopeful, and full of light, he is a hero of the ages, and it was so refreshing to have a story portraying true heroism, as modern fiction is often so lacking in truly inspiring heroes. I also appreciated the deep bond formed that stayed wholly platonic. We need more stories about love that are not romantic. This is a love story, but not in the way you might expect. And goodness was it beautiful.
From exciting battles to heart-wrenching losses to great beams of hope shooting through the darkness, this story broke me and put me back together again, and it will stay with me for a long, long time.
If you love adventure, redemption stories, true heroes, or simply good old-fashioned fantasy tales, this one is for you! I cannot recommend it enough.
This is a retelling of Beowulf with a delightful twist of telling the story through the point-of-view of a female Grendel, and I barely even know where to begin. It's one of those stories you have to experience, and what an experience it is. It starts off with a bang and carries you through heartache and action and disaster and healing. The allegorical threads of our beastly nature being stripped away so we may be made a new creature by our Savior are impacting and flow so naturally throughout the story.
Every page, every beautiful, sharp word, cuts straight to the heart, making the reader bleed, only for the story to pour salve into the wound.
Grendel herself is such a relatable character as she wrestles with her beastly nature and takes the hard path of redemption, failing and rising again in turn.
Then we have dear Beowulf. Brave, hopeful, and full of light, he is a hero of the ages, and it was so refreshing to have a story portraying true heroism, as modern fiction is often so lacking in truly inspiring heroes. I also appreciated the deep bond formed that stayed wholly platonic. We need more stories about love that are not romantic. This is a love story, but not in the way you might expect. And goodness was it beautiful.
From exciting battles to heart-wrenching losses to great beams of hope shooting through the darkness, this story broke me and put me back together again, and it will stay with me for a long, long time.
If you love adventure, redemption stories, true heroes, or simply good old-fashioned fantasy tales, this one is for you! I cannot recommend it enough.
October 2, 2023
I've known for a while that this author could write, but her stories have always hit a sour note with me. She writes redemption stories, but both The Reluctant Godfather and The Goblin and the Dancer have had a power dynamic to their redemption arc that made them ring hollow.
This book hit right. A lot of that is the fact that it was unabashedly Christian and focused on God as the source of redemption, with Beowulf as a quasi-Jesus offering Grendal salvation. None of Grendal's salvation is through her own efforts, though it is her choice to accept it, and she exemplifies her change of heart through actions.
One of the best books I've read this year.
This book hit right. A lot of that is the fact that it was unabashedly Christian and focused on God as the source of redemption, with Beowulf as a quasi-Jesus offering Grendal salvation. None of Grendal's salvation is through her own efforts, though it is her choice to accept it, and she exemplifies her change of heart through actions.
One of the best books I've read this year.
ebooks-i-own
September 30, 2024Got this E-book on 9/30/2024! There's a 0.99 cent sale going on for all of the books in this series on Amazon and today is the last day!
A retelling of Beowulf? Now that intrigues me. Retelling classics instead of fairy tales? Also intriguing.
A retelling of Beowulf? Now that intrigues me. Retelling classics instead of fairy tales? Also intriguing.
Read
February 5, 2024I'm still trying to process this book! I don't know what I was expecting, I honestly picked it up based on the author and title alone due to the recommendation (ahem, gushing) of a friend, and didn't even know what it was a retelling of when I started it.
That probably would have helped me find my feet and get swept into the story a lot sooner.
However, Allison's storytelling is masterful as always, and I appreciate the pacing, style, and character growth once I adapted to it.
The MC felt very relatable--maybe a little too relatable at first, haha. I had to come to terms with my own brokenness before I could fully appreciate the story. And Beowulf was such a mystery, which was delightful.
That probably would have helped me find my feet and get swept into the story a lot sooner.
However, Allison's storytelling is masterful as always, and I appreciate the pacing, style, and character growth once I adapted to it.
The MC felt very relatable--maybe a little too relatable at first, haha. I had to come to terms with my own brokenness before I could fully appreciate the story. And Beowulf was such a mystery, which was delightful.
October 5, 2023
This was one of my favorite books of the year. I’ll post a better review in a bit, but for now — wow. Absolutely incredible.
November 15, 2023
Everything a story should be! Amazing and full of spiritual lessons for all. Loved it!
September 27, 2023
In a departure from her typical comedic fairy tale shenanigans, Allison Tebo has brought us a beautiful new retelling of a very old tale.
I cannot say enough about how wonderful this novel is. I also can't go into much detail about why without delving into spoiler territory. Suffice it to say this, the atmospheric settings, poetic writing style, and the themes of heroism, nobility, sacrifice, and redemption combine to create a fantastically inspiring novel that will stir the heart and push you to ready your sword and fight your own dragons. The noble hero is a character that has gone out of style in recent years and I was thrilled to see this archetype presented at its very finest. The characters were fascinating and compelling and one core relationship in the story had me in tears.
Also, as anyone who knows me well knows, I am very, very picky regarding anything resembling allegory. Thankfully, this book lends itself to symbolism instead and I absolutely applaud the use of it. It was beautifully done and serves to inspire and encourage! Don't forget your tissues. You will need them.
I highly recommend this book to any and all!
I had the honor of beta reading this novel. I was not required to leave a review, positive or negative, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I cannot say enough about how wonderful this novel is. I also can't go into much detail about why without delving into spoiler territory. Suffice it to say this, the atmospheric settings, poetic writing style, and the themes of heroism, nobility, sacrifice, and redemption combine to create a fantastically inspiring novel that will stir the heart and push you to ready your sword and fight your own dragons. The noble hero is a character that has gone out of style in recent years and I was thrilled to see this archetype presented at its very finest. The characters were fascinating and compelling and one core relationship in the story had me in tears.
Also, as anyone who knows me well knows, I am very, very picky regarding anything resembling allegory. Thankfully, this book lends itself to symbolism instead and I absolutely applaud the use of it. It was beautifully done and serves to inspire and encourage! Don't forget your tissues. You will need them.
I highly recommend this book to any and all!
I had the honor of beta reading this novel. I was not required to leave a review, positive or negative, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 21, 2023
Short review: WOW I loved this.
Longer review: WOW I really loved this.
Allison Tebo’s writing was so rich in this. I’ve read some of her others, and while they made me laugh, I didn’t expect the depth—sometimes of horror, sometimes of fear, sometimes of mercy, sometimes of beauty—that she pulled out here.
If you like stories where evil is defeated, sinners are forgiven, and grace upon grace is given freely, read this.
Longer review: WOW I really loved this.
Allison Tebo’s writing was so rich in this. I’ve read some of her others, and while they made me laugh, I didn’t expect the depth—sometimes of horror, sometimes of fear, sometimes of mercy, sometimes of beauty—that she pulled out here.
If you like stories where evil is defeated, sinners are forgiven, and grace upon grace is given freely, read this.
August 13, 2024
As someone who never felt any fondness for or interest in the original Beowulf, there aren’t a lot of authors from whom I would read a retelling of the tale. However, Allison is one of my few auto buy authors who has never failed to surprise and delight me, so I knew I would give this one a chance.
I had no idea what to expect from a retelling written from the perspective of Grendel but WOW, this was so well done! Rarely have I seen an antihero handled so well. Grendel is truly unlikable at the beginning, though I want to be clear that this is done in an intentional manner. I mean, she is basically the villain, after all, going around killing people And yet, there is a certain pitiable quality when you see her interactions with her “mother” who has convinced her that her constant rage and suffering is all completely normal and should be embraced. And if Grendel hints at any discontent with this situation, her Mother punishes her for it. It isn’t until Beowulf steps onto the scene that we start to get hints that Grendel isn’t who her mother has convinced her that she is, nor is Beowulf the true enemy here.
I would hate to spoil what comes after because I had no idea how things would end and that was part of the experience. The part that I did predict happened by the midway point, so I was able to just let the second half of the book take me on a ride! But I will say that there were elements in the first half that reminded me to a degree of Eustace’s journey in Voyage of the Dawn Treader and I really loved the allegorical imagery.
In the second half, the push-and-pull that Grendel experiences as she discovers who she really is was so well handled. Though it seems that she has been through her big battle, there was more to come. So many times I just wanted to hug her even as I knew that she needed the struggle to eventually reach and accept the truth in a way that was far deeper than simply being told.
The friendship that was developed between her and someone else was especially precious and I really appreciated that it didn’t go romantic. (I very, very briefly thought it might, but I was wrong and the story was better for it.)
And that ending. YOWZA, THAT WAS INTENSE! In all the best ways, of course. :) Once the final battle began, I truly couldn’t put the book down until I finished it and was laying on my bed at midnight, quietly sniffling into my pillow because the ending was just that touching. I so appreciate seeing the author’s heart here, showing us that even in great darkness, hope can still be found.
Overall, I thought Break the Beast (such a great title for this!) was a unique and well-executed retelling of Beowulf that puts Allison Tebo’s writing talents on full display. This felt like a modern classic that respects the original while still providing a fresh twist that makes you see it in a whole new way. 5 stars.
Content Advisory:
Allison writes for different age ranges. While the Tales of Ambia series is appropriate for all ages from kids to adult, this one is more appropriate for older teens and adults as it would be too intense and possibly too complex for kids to enjoy or appreciate.
No romantic or sexual content, and no profanity.
Violence: There is violence throughout, with frequent, but brief mentions of blood in most instances. However, the descriptions never become graphic. For example, while there are mentions of injuries, including grievous and deadly ones, blood gets mentioned, but the wounds themselves are never described in a visual or gross manner. We simply know that violence has been dealt.
Spiritual: There is Christian spiritual content with references to the "Almighty" whom Beowulf serves, and there are some allegorical elements as well.
I had no idea what to expect from a retelling written from the perspective of Grendel but WOW, this was so well done! Rarely have I seen an antihero handled so well. Grendel is truly unlikable at the beginning, though I want to be clear that this is done in an intentional manner. I mean, she is basically the villain, after all, going around killing people And yet, there is a certain pitiable quality when you see her interactions with her “mother” who has convinced her that her constant rage and suffering is all completely normal and should be embraced. And if Grendel hints at any discontent with this situation, her Mother punishes her for it. It isn’t until Beowulf steps onto the scene that we start to get hints that Grendel isn’t who her mother has convinced her that she is, nor is Beowulf the true enemy here.
I would hate to spoil what comes after because I had no idea how things would end and that was part of the experience. The part that I did predict happened by the midway point, so I was able to just let the second half of the book take me on a ride! But I will say that there were elements in the first half that reminded me to a degree of Eustace’s journey in Voyage of the Dawn Treader and I really loved the allegorical imagery.
In the second half, the push-and-pull that Grendel experiences as she discovers who she really is was so well handled. Though it seems that she has been through her big battle, there was more to come. So many times I just wanted to hug her even as I knew that she needed the struggle to eventually reach and accept the truth in a way that was far deeper than simply being told.
The friendship that was developed between her and someone else was especially precious and I really appreciated that it didn’t go romantic. (I very, very briefly thought it might, but I was wrong and the story was better for it.)
And that ending. YOWZA, THAT WAS INTENSE! In all the best ways, of course. :) Once the final battle began, I truly couldn’t put the book down until I finished it and was laying on my bed at midnight, quietly sniffling into my pillow because the ending was just that touching. I so appreciate seeing the author’s heart here, showing us that even in great darkness, hope can still be found.
Overall, I thought Break the Beast (such a great title for this!) was a unique and well-executed retelling of Beowulf that puts Allison Tebo’s writing talents on full display. This felt like a modern classic that respects the original while still providing a fresh twist that makes you see it in a whole new way. 5 stars.
Content Advisory:
Allison writes for different age ranges. While the Tales of Ambia series is appropriate for all ages from kids to adult, this one is more appropriate for older teens and adults as it would be too intense and possibly too complex for kids to enjoy or appreciate.
No romantic or sexual content, and no profanity.
Violence: There is violence throughout, with frequent, but brief mentions of blood in most instances. However, the descriptions never become graphic. For example, while there are mentions of injuries, including grievous and deadly ones, blood gets mentioned, but the wounds themselves are never described in a visual or gross manner. We simply know that violence has been dealt.
Spiritual: There is Christian spiritual content with references to the "Almighty" whom Beowulf serves, and there are some allegorical elements as well.
January 5, 2024
I am filled with awe and wonder at Allison's skill with story and words. This story...it's everything!
When I first heard that Allison was writing a Beowulf retelling, my heart exploded with joy.
Beowulf has been a favorite classic of mine since my mom read to me a very abridged version in middle school. A retelling sounded fabulous.
But I didn't expect the absolute brilliancy that is Break the Beast.
It's dark, but filled with light and hope that pierces that dark.
From beginning to end Allison surprised me with how she incorporated elements from the original and from Beauty and the Beast while making the story fresh and new.
Allegory abounds and the reader will not leave the story changed. I certainly haven't.
This is a story with an eternal spark. I am going to carry this story in my soul as long as I have my being.
What a brilliant story!
When I first heard that Allison was writing a Beowulf retelling, my heart exploded with joy.
Beowulf has been a favorite classic of mine since my mom read to me a very abridged version in middle school. A retelling sounded fabulous.
But I didn't expect the absolute brilliancy that is Break the Beast.
It's dark, but filled with light and hope that pierces that dark.
From beginning to end Allison surprised me with how she incorporated elements from the original and from Beauty and the Beast while making the story fresh and new.
Allegory abounds and the reader will not leave the story changed. I certainly haven't.
This is a story with an eternal spark. I am going to carry this story in my soul as long as I have my being.
What a brilliant story!
October 13, 2023
Have you ever read something and thought, "That was absolutely beautiful..." and then realized that you cannot come up with good enough words to explain why you loved it so much?
That was my experience with this story.
But having mulled it over for a week or two, I think I'm starting to be able to find the words.
I'll start by telling you that I am quite familiar with the story of Beowulf, having read it for school a few times, and having read a couple of retellings. It's a story I've loved since I first met it. I love stories where the heroes are golden and the villains are evil. I don't mind gray areas, but there is something compelling about stories where the lines aren't too blurry. Where good is lauded and evil is denounced.
And this retelling of Beowulf does that... but it goes a step further. It asks the question, "Can villains be redeemed?"
I don't know that I've ever read a story from the POV of a character who needs a redemption arc. That was something new. Break the Beast is told from Grendel's point of view, but this is not a Grendel like you've met before. Grendel is a girl in this story. But she is just as beastly as you would expect. She is terrorizing the village of Schwarynghop (I probably really butchered that spelling but I'm going off of memory).
And then she meets Beowulf.
Or rather, she sees him arrive.
And she can tell immediately that there is something different about him.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but it's hard to talk about the reasons why I loved this book without hinting at a few things. Suffice to say that there are moments in this story that took my breath away. There were moments when I felt like I'd been running a marathon. And there were definitely moments that brought tears... but not the kind you cry when you're reading something sad... the kind you cry when you're reading something heart-wrenchingly beautiful.
A definite must-read for anyone who loves the story of Beowulf, or Arthurian-type tales. If you like an adventure, hunting monsters, heroes who are noble and good, and redemption stories... then you should definitely pick this one up.
That was my experience with this story.
But having mulled it over for a week or two, I think I'm starting to be able to find the words.
I'll start by telling you that I am quite familiar with the story of Beowulf, having read it for school a few times, and having read a couple of retellings. It's a story I've loved since I first met it. I love stories where the heroes are golden and the villains are evil. I don't mind gray areas, but there is something compelling about stories where the lines aren't too blurry. Where good is lauded and evil is denounced.
And this retelling of Beowulf does that... but it goes a step further. It asks the question, "Can villains be redeemed?"
I don't know that I've ever read a story from the POV of a character who needs a redemption arc. That was something new. Break the Beast is told from Grendel's point of view, but this is not a Grendel like you've met before. Grendel is a girl in this story. But she is just as beastly as you would expect. She is terrorizing the village of Schwarynghop (I probably really butchered that spelling but I'm going off of memory).
And then she meets Beowulf.
Or rather, she sees him arrive.
And she can tell immediately that there is something different about him.
I don't want to give away any spoilers, but it's hard to talk about the reasons why I loved this book without hinting at a few things. Suffice to say that there are moments in this story that took my breath away. There were moments when I felt like I'd been running a marathon. And there were definitely moments that brought tears... but not the kind you cry when you're reading something sad... the kind you cry when you're reading something heart-wrenchingly beautiful.
A definite must-read for anyone who loves the story of Beowulf, or Arthurian-type tales. If you like an adventure, hunting monsters, heroes who are noble and good, and redemption stories... then you should definitely pick this one up.
February 6, 2024
Grendel is a beast, a monster who terrorizes the land. Driven by a hellish master, she takes vengeance on those who rejected her.
When the golden beast-slayer Beowulf arrives on her shores, the ages-long battle between good and evil is brought into sharp focus. Grendel must decide if she is brave enough to take the first steps into the light.
“It is the people who call me a monster.” … “Why do you think they are right?”
This question is so central to the plot of this story — what makes a monster, and who gets to decide if we are or aren’t?
But this isn’t a story about identity. It’s a beautiful allegory of Christ, written in the most lyrical prose. Beowulf, a golden son to defeat the dragon, is a symbol of Christ. This isn’t a romance. Far from it. Break the Beast is a tale of a savior, a servant, and a never-ending gratitude.
“So I stand on the edge of a bluff, a lonely figurehead on a lonely promontory, surveying a domain that I do not own and that has no place for me.”
Tebo writes in a very introspective voice, one that is full of imagery and metaphor. First person present isn’t my favorite POV to read, yet Tebo showed incredible wisdom in choosing it for this book.
5 Roses
No romantic elements. No swearing. A few intense battle scenes, but the violence is not glorified in any way.
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
When the golden beast-slayer Beowulf arrives on her shores, the ages-long battle between good and evil is brought into sharp focus. Grendel must decide if she is brave enough to take the first steps into the light.
“It is the people who call me a monster.” … “Why do you think they are right?”
This question is so central to the plot of this story — what makes a monster, and who gets to decide if we are or aren’t?
But this isn’t a story about identity. It’s a beautiful allegory of Christ, written in the most lyrical prose. Beowulf, a golden son to defeat the dragon, is a symbol of Christ. This isn’t a romance. Far from it. Break the Beast is a tale of a savior, a servant, and a never-ending gratitude.
“So I stand on the edge of a bluff, a lonely figurehead on a lonely promontory, surveying a domain that I do not own and that has no place for me.”
Tebo writes in a very introspective voice, one that is full of imagery and metaphor. First person present isn’t my favorite POV to read, yet Tebo showed incredible wisdom in choosing it for this book.
5 Roses
No romantic elements. No swearing. A few intense battle scenes, but the violence is not glorified in any way.
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
November 24, 2024
I don't read much fantasy, and what little I do read is non-magical fantasy with few if any strange creatures. But I felt drawn to this book and I know why...
... I needed this story.
I cried during this story because I'm in a battle right now, and ugly, heart-rending battle that has me exhausted, questioning, and weary. This story, with such clear allegorical applications for spiritual warfare, was what my heart needed.
The battle has already been won. We don't fight alone or without power. We have been redeemed from the darkness and brought into the light.
If you need a reminder of that this book may be for you.
Content notes This is a violent book with some gore and evil creatures. Lots of blood and injuries, but none of it is pointless. There are evil creatures who cast enchantments, but it is only lightly touched upon.
... I needed this story.
I cried during this story because I'm in a battle right now, and ugly, heart-rending battle that has me exhausted, questioning, and weary. This story, with such clear allegorical applications for spiritual warfare, was what my heart needed.
The battle has already been won. We don't fight alone or without power. We have been redeemed from the darkness and brought into the light.
If you need a reminder of that this book may be for you.
Content notes This is a violent book with some gore and evil creatures. Lots of blood and injuries, but none of it is pointless. There are evil creatures who cast enchantments, but it is only lightly touched upon.
September 21, 2023
Simply incredible. This intense and glorious book took me on a journey of breaking, healing, and new life.
BREAK THE BEAST is a book I've been waiting for all my life, though I didn't know it. This epic work of legend has all of the golden, rich vibes of ancient Britain that I crave. I've been searching for 12 years, but I've never seen that outside of classic author Rosemary Sutcliff.
BREAK THE BEAST is the best book I've read in a long, long time. It deserves far more honor than a pure and shining five-star rating.
Alison Tebo has already won awards and recognition for excellence in the fantasy genre. This is her best book yet, out of many.
I knew this story and its pages were special, as soon as I tasted a small glimpse of BREAK THE BEAST. I was swept away from the very first.
The writing is exquisite, nearly flawless, from the surface to the deepest depths, in each word, each character, and each part of the story. The setting, writing, story, and characters are unequaled in their vivid life and deep power.
BREAK THE BEAST is the one book that's worthy to take its place with the ancient, epic tales that have endured for generations.
Read BREAK THE BEAST and be swept away to an ancient land of heroes and monsters, comrades and warriors.
In this land, there is an epic adventure waiting for each one who visits.
You might find restoratiom, grief, joy, tears, and healing there, like I did.
You'll certainly enjoy the transforming journey of Allison Tebo's BREAK THE BEAST.
BREAK THE BEAST is a book I've been waiting for all my life, though I didn't know it. This epic work of legend has all of the golden, rich vibes of ancient Britain that I crave. I've been searching for 12 years, but I've never seen that outside of classic author Rosemary Sutcliff.
BREAK THE BEAST is the best book I've read in a long, long time. It deserves far more honor than a pure and shining five-star rating.
Alison Tebo has already won awards and recognition for excellence in the fantasy genre. This is her best book yet, out of many.
I knew this story and its pages were special, as soon as I tasted a small glimpse of BREAK THE BEAST. I was swept away from the very first.
The writing is exquisite, nearly flawless, from the surface to the deepest depths, in each word, each character, and each part of the story. The setting, writing, story, and characters are unequaled in their vivid life and deep power.
BREAK THE BEAST is the one book that's worthy to take its place with the ancient, epic tales that have endured for generations.
Read BREAK THE BEAST and be swept away to an ancient land of heroes and monsters, comrades and warriors.
In this land, there is an epic adventure waiting for each one who visits.
You might find restoratiom, grief, joy, tears, and healing there, like I did.
You'll certainly enjoy the transforming journey of Allison Tebo's BREAK THE BEAST.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2024
3.5 stars
I think I would probably enjoy this book if I knew the original classic. I skimmed Beowulf back during my senior year. I had to look it up to refresh my memory. No, I still haven’t read it. I just looked up a summary. It is a classic that I do plan to read. Just not anytime soon. I have a hard time with epic poems.
Funny enough, my hubby (who doesn’t read) remembers this story from high school. That was twelve years ago for us. So for him to remember that is impressive, let alone that he read it and I didn’t. Either way he broke down Beowulf for me when I was looking up the summary.
I want to read this series in order even though I don’t think I have to. Each book has a different author and is about a different classic. Some I am familiar with, others not so much. I am reading the order as Amazon and Goodreads has listed. Which I am going to assume that it is by release date. I will know for sure if they have some kind of connection once I dig deeper into the series.
What do I feel about this book without fully knowing the source material? Well, from what I do know, Grendel is normally a man. In this Tebo made Grendel into a woman. As far as I know, that hasn’t been done but please let me know if I am wrong. This story is also told through Grendel’s POV. It is told in three parts just like the epic poem.
There were parts that dragged a bit in the part 1 and 3. I did enjoy this. Like I said earlier that I might have enjoyed this more if I knew more of the source material. I enjoyed this without getting the deeper connection to the classic though.
I think I would probably enjoy this book if I knew the original classic. I skimmed Beowulf back during my senior year. I had to look it up to refresh my memory. No, I still haven’t read it. I just looked up a summary. It is a classic that I do plan to read. Just not anytime soon. I have a hard time with epic poems.
Funny enough, my hubby (who doesn’t read) remembers this story from high school. That was twelve years ago for us. So for him to remember that is impressive, let alone that he read it and I didn’t. Either way he broke down Beowulf for me when I was looking up the summary.
I want to read this series in order even though I don’t think I have to. Each book has a different author and is about a different classic. Some I am familiar with, others not so much. I am reading the order as Amazon and Goodreads has listed. Which I am going to assume that it is by release date. I will know for sure if they have some kind of connection once I dig deeper into the series.
What do I feel about this book without fully knowing the source material? Well, from what I do know, Grendel is normally a man. In this Tebo made Grendel into a woman. As far as I know, that hasn’t been done but please let me know if I am wrong. This story is also told through Grendel’s POV. It is told in three parts just like the epic poem.
There were parts that dragged a bit in the part 1 and 3. I did enjoy this. Like I said earlier that I might have enjoyed this more if I knew more of the source material. I enjoyed this without getting the deeper connection to the classic though.
September 15, 2023
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Grendel’s point if view
– there is fantasy violence, death, & blood (not gore, but the main character & her later companion fight many people/beasts)
– there is abuse from someone (that isn’t realized to be abuse by Grendel at first)
Review:
I don’t actually know the story of Beowulf, so I can’t speak to how close to the tale it is. But despite not knowing the tale, I really enjoyed it!
This book reminds me a bit of The Chronicles of Narnia in that it is a piece of fantasy fiction that points to God’s love and power and how we live life with Him. The main character of this story (Grendel) reminded me a lot of Edmund Pevensie (from Narnia) with how they both were still learning the difference between who was right and wrong and who they allowed to speak into their lives. I couldn’t put this book down with how enthralled by the unfolding story of Grendel’s redemption I was. I loved seeing in both her and in other characters different types of people that we meet here on earth and how they react to the light and the message of the Almighty. I also loved how real Grendel’s redemption story was, especially because it showed that she backslid not once, but multiple times and still had struggles against her past life.
Summary:
Grendel was raised by the one she called Mother for one purpose: to wreak vengeance upon the people who called Grendel a monster and shunned her from their society. Mother stoked the flames of Grendel’s hurt and anger and taught her how to destroy. And Grendel is ready to answer her calling.
With the destruction she causes, Grendel has made the people fear her and her wrath. So much so that they have called upon the fiercest warrior they know. One that makes Grendel quake at the light that emanates from him. Mother calls for his death at Grendel’s hand, but Grendel isn’t sure that she can down him and his light. Beowulf will be a formidable opponent, one that could skyrocket her infamy should she succeed. Then all shall fear her wrath.
But not all is as it seems for Grendel and Beowulf. They each have their perceived purpose, but when the curtains masking their actions are pulled aside they may find that there is more to the attacks than they ever could have thought…
– this is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Grendel’s point if view
– there is fantasy violence, death, & blood (not gore, but the main character & her later companion fight many people/beasts)
– there is abuse from someone (that isn’t realized to be abuse by Grendel at first)
Review:
I don’t actually know the story of Beowulf, so I can’t speak to how close to the tale it is. But despite not knowing the tale, I really enjoyed it!
This book reminds me a bit of The Chronicles of Narnia in that it is a piece of fantasy fiction that points to God’s love and power and how we live life with Him. The main character of this story (Grendel) reminded me a lot of Edmund Pevensie (from Narnia) with how they both were still learning the difference between who was right and wrong and who they allowed to speak into their lives. I couldn’t put this book down with how enthralled by the unfolding story of Grendel’s redemption I was. I loved seeing in both her and in other characters different types of people that we meet here on earth and how they react to the light and the message of the Almighty. I also loved how real Grendel’s redemption story was, especially because it showed that she backslid not once, but multiple times and still had struggles against her past life.
Summary:
Grendel was raised by the one she called Mother for one purpose: to wreak vengeance upon the people who called Grendel a monster and shunned her from their society. Mother stoked the flames of Grendel’s hurt and anger and taught her how to destroy. And Grendel is ready to answer her calling.
With the destruction she causes, Grendel has made the people fear her and her wrath. So much so that they have called upon the fiercest warrior they know. One that makes Grendel quake at the light that emanates from him. Mother calls for his death at Grendel’s hand, but Grendel isn’t sure that she can down him and his light. Beowulf will be a formidable opponent, one that could skyrocket her infamy should she succeed. Then all shall fear her wrath.
But not all is as it seems for Grendel and Beowulf. They each have their perceived purpose, but when the curtains masking their actions are pulled aside they may find that there is more to the attacks than they ever could have thought…
October 2, 2023
very lyrically invested
I didn't complete this book.
While it was very lyrically described (a nod to the og poem), it was a little too wrapped up in the mystery for me .
a little too "from the monsters perspective" that it was alien and monotonous.
They introduced some Almighty kind of religious vision and I'm not a big fan of twisted religious themes as I am deeply devout.
The writing style reminded me of some very popular old school authors like; Ursula Lee Guin, or Michael Morecomb... but I never enjoyed them either.
If you did, you'll probably enjoy this book too.
I didn't complete this book.
While it was very lyrically described (a nod to the og poem), it was a little too wrapped up in the mystery for me .
a little too "from the monsters perspective" that it was alien and monotonous.
They introduced some Almighty kind of religious vision and I'm not a big fan of twisted religious themes as I am deeply devout.
The writing style reminded me of some very popular old school authors like; Ursula Lee Guin, or Michael Morecomb... but I never enjoyed them either.
If you did, you'll probably enjoy this book too.
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