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Dark Forest #1
At the Edge of a Dark Forest
Cole Harrison, a war veteran, wears his disfigurement like a barrier to those who might love him, shielding them from the ugliness inside. He agrees to try and potentially invest in, a prototype prosthetic with the goal of saving a hopeless man’s dreams.
Carly Rose contracts to live with Cole and train him to use his new limbs, only to discover the darkness that wars against the man he could become.
At the Edge of a Dark Forest is a modern-day retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Only it is not her love that will make him whole.
Christian Romance.
Carly Rose contracts to live with Cole and train him to use his new limbs, only to discover the darkness that wars against the man he could become.
At the Edge of a Dark Forest is a modern-day retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Only it is not her love that will make him whole.
Christian Romance.
143 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2014
48 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
Connie Almony
10 books36 followersShe’s just a suburb gal from the Baltimore-Washington megalopolis. And that’s what Connie Almony’s fiction is about, a diverse population which is truly, and beautifully, colorful.
Trained as a mental health counselor, she hopes you won’t hold that against her. Though this training helps her delve into the motivations that drive her characters, she promises not to therapize you.
Her favorite things to do include listening to awesome Christian Contemporary music (like Third Day and NeedtoBreathe) and read great stories with colorful characters while spending time with her adoring family. She loves to brainstorm with her almost thirteen-year-old daughter, who writes chapter books on the side, and share peaceful moments with her sixteen-year-old son (who’s like a gentle breeze).
The bantering style of her characters is inspired by her husband’s deep love of mischief, particularly that which craves a sharp response ;o). Still, she loves him anyway … which covers a multitude of sins. She’s been married almost twenty years and counts each one better than the one before.
Trained as a mental health counselor, she hopes you won’t hold that against her. Though this training helps her delve into the motivations that drive her characters, she promises not to therapize you.
Her favorite things to do include listening to awesome Christian Contemporary music (like Third Day and NeedtoBreathe) and read great stories with colorful characters while spending time with her adoring family. She loves to brainstorm with her almost thirteen-year-old daughter, who writes chapter books on the side, and share peaceful moments with her sixteen-year-old son (who’s like a gentle breeze).
The bantering style of her characters is inspired by her husband’s deep love of mischief, particularly that which craves a sharp response ;o). Still, she loves him anyway … which covers a multitude of sins. She’s been married almost twenty years and counts each one better than the one before.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 27, 2021
I see that now they're doing with the Iraq veterans the same thing they used to do (and still are) with the Napoleonic Wars veterans in romance, especially those who came back maimed and with horrible PTSD: they're romanticising their wounds and pretending they can be saved by a nice girl's love.
Only that this one is written by a Christian, and like a lot of them, the author can't help but be preachy and use the novel as a launching pad for her religion, complete with Bible quotes. I don't object to being religious, I do object to being preachy, and this goes for all authors with an ideology of any kind. In this case, the storyline is that Cole, an unbelieving Iraq vet who lost limbs to an IED in the war and suffers from trauma and self-loathing, finds healing through the faith of a Christian teammate who bestows his Bible on him by will & testament, and meets a nice girl who conveniently happens to be a prosthetist that invents a revolutionary new prosthesis that'll help Cole walk again. So, basically Bible guy + gorgeous prosthetist = cured "Beast."
And why exactly is Cole a "Beast" just for being a maimed vet? Oh, dontcha know, it's the same "sexy scarred" trope from Historical Romance. All the reality of living as an amputee, all the suffering, all the scars and chronic pain from war wounds... they're all subservient to the romantic plot, to the ultimate goal of getting the woman to cure and redeem the dude, who in this case needs no redemption. The whole bloody point of "Beauty and the Beast" made to serve a cliché with a heavy dose of religiosity. As the author is supposed to work in mental health, I'd have expected that to show in the writing and characterisation, and hopefully in a positive manner.
Oh, how I detest the misuse of disability and trauma in romance. Now more than ever, because I now know actual vets, and if I already thought their portrayal as romantic heroes was crappy before meeting any, now that I am acquainted with their struggles, it's even more troublesome.
Only that this one is written by a Christian, and like a lot of them, the author can't help but be preachy and use the novel as a launching pad for her religion, complete with Bible quotes. I don't object to being religious, I do object to being preachy, and this goes for all authors with an ideology of any kind. In this case, the storyline is that Cole, an unbelieving Iraq vet who lost limbs to an IED in the war and suffers from trauma and self-loathing, finds healing through the faith of a Christian teammate who bestows his Bible on him by will & testament, and meets a nice girl who conveniently happens to be a prosthetist that invents a revolutionary new prosthesis that'll help Cole walk again. So, basically Bible guy + gorgeous prosthetist = cured "Beast."
And why exactly is Cole a "Beast" just for being a maimed vet? Oh, dontcha know, it's the same "sexy scarred" trope from Historical Romance. All the reality of living as an amputee, all the suffering, all the scars and chronic pain from war wounds... they're all subservient to the romantic plot, to the ultimate goal of getting the woman to cure and redeem the dude, who in this case needs no redemption. The whole bloody point of "Beauty and the Beast" made to serve a cliché with a heavy dose of religiosity. As the author is supposed to work in mental health, I'd have expected that to show in the writing and characterisation, and hopefully in a positive manner.
Oh, how I detest the misuse of disability and trauma in romance. Now more than ever, because I now know actual vets, and if I already thought their portrayal as romantic heroes was crappy before meeting any, now that I am acquainted with their struggles, it's even more troublesome.
April 9, 2014
This deeply compelling, raw, and insightful story of Connie Almony's, inserts the reader into Cole Harrison’s intensely troubled life… A life that’s filled with self-loathing, self-absorption, and alcohol abuse. Cole Harrison was only half a man. Ugly on the outside, and ugly on the inside. At least, that is what he thought of himself. A war veteran amputee that suffers from PTSD, he frequently has visions and nightmares of the worse kind, carries an ever-present peace-consuming guilt, and exudes a surliness that he uses along with his disfigurements to keep everyone at a distance.
Cole makes a somewhat hesitant agreement with a man he recently comes across, to try out and potentially invest in the prototype prosthetic's that this man’s daughter Carly Rose has developed. Carly, upon Cole’s insistence, moves into his mansion and life to help train Cole with his new limbs. But Carly soon realizes that Cole’s brokenness isn't just physical and that she’s unable to help this terribly damaged man.
Can Cole become a whole person again – even though he’ll always be missing limbs? As Carly draws closer to him and begins to see Cole may actually contain a heart - a package from his past arrives for him and everything begins to fall apart for Cole. Carly has to leave and now alone, Cole now faces an even greater battle than he did while on active duty. Can he battle his demons enough to let in the only one that can help? And could the contents of the package that broke his resolve, possibly be also what’s needed to pull him back together again?
This modern-day retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast story was intensely heart-stirring and inspiring! Barely able to pause from reading, I was surely a captive of this heart-rending though heart-warming novella, as Cole Harrison was of his precarious mental prison. 'At the Edge of a Dark Forest' is immensely well-written, but what I found particularly engaging, were the conversations and thoughts of the characters… They were exceptionally realistic and captivating throughout the entire story! The romance was also tender, sweet, and credible, and brought an overall sheen to this uplifting tale. It is a story that discerningly demonstrates that it is only God that can renew our spirit and fulfill our deepest needs. Thank you Connie Almony for this remarkable story, that is both a tribute to the brave men who risk life and limb to fight for our freedom, as well as those who work tirelessly to help those brave men recover from the ravages of war with the assistance of prosthetic limbs. Highly recommended!!
Cole makes a somewhat hesitant agreement with a man he recently comes across, to try out and potentially invest in the prototype prosthetic's that this man’s daughter Carly Rose has developed. Carly, upon Cole’s insistence, moves into his mansion and life to help train Cole with his new limbs. But Carly soon realizes that Cole’s brokenness isn't just physical and that she’s unable to help this terribly damaged man.
Can Cole become a whole person again – even though he’ll always be missing limbs? As Carly draws closer to him and begins to see Cole may actually contain a heart - a package from his past arrives for him and everything begins to fall apart for Cole. Carly has to leave and now alone, Cole now faces an even greater battle than he did while on active duty. Can he battle his demons enough to let in the only one that can help? And could the contents of the package that broke his resolve, possibly be also what’s needed to pull him back together again?
This modern-day retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast story was intensely heart-stirring and inspiring! Barely able to pause from reading, I was surely a captive of this heart-rending though heart-warming novella, as Cole Harrison was of his precarious mental prison. 'At the Edge of a Dark Forest' is immensely well-written, but what I found particularly engaging, were the conversations and thoughts of the characters… They were exceptionally realistic and captivating throughout the entire story! The romance was also tender, sweet, and credible, and brought an overall sheen to this uplifting tale. It is a story that discerningly demonstrates that it is only God that can renew our spirit and fulfill our deepest needs. Thank you Connie Almony for this remarkable story, that is both a tribute to the brave men who risk life and limb to fight for our freedom, as well as those who work tirelessly to help those brave men recover from the ravages of war with the assistance of prosthetic limbs. Highly recommended!!
February 12, 2015
I really wanted to like this book, and came away pissed off.
Basically, if you take Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' (word for word, in some places: "My father needs me!" and "Then... you must go to him"... They even dress for dinner in a blue suit and a yellow dress!) and throw a Bible at it with some flashbacks from an Iraqi War movie... y'got this book. It's a JEE-zus-ified version of a fairy tale.
I got this because I like fairy tales. Particularly 'Beauty and the Beast' re-tellings. But this one was so wrapped up in alcoholism, gettin' right with Gawd, and PTSD that the actual relationship development was completely sacrificed. ((What am I SAYING! This is a chrischun book - it's a sin to write relationship development, unless it's a relationship with Gawd.)) The relationship development is the WHOLE POINT of the 'Beauty and the Beast' story, hello...
Cole is a double amputee (right arm, left leg... so as to be convenient for using crutches, naturally) and he's steeped in guilt because his being drunk during a raid in the Middle East resulted in the death of a kid he'd taken a shine to. He's retreated to his 'castle' in the woods, and when he rescues Beauty's father from a car crash in the woods, it turns out Beauty's dad is a prosthetics maker, and Beauty can outfit Beast with fake parts better than anyone on earth... so he sets her up in his house, and she heals his alcoholism and gives him body parts, while the kid who blew up and his trusty Bible bring Cole to Gawd.
And it's all shallow-end spirituality, too. Verses consist of Psalm 23 ('The Lord is my Shepherd', the most famous in the Bible), the tenets of faith are completely flawed (Beckett went to Heaven when he died... try to find THAT in your Bible, anywhere. And the JEE-zus that appeared to Beckett in a vision had nail-scarred hands. The Bible's Messiah - upon returning to the right hand of the Father - was transformed and is NOT scarred, any longer. See Revelation 1 for details). Shoddy, sheeple BS that doesn't match scripture.
And really, do we HAVE to have an agenda in our books? Seriously? I just... It ruined the story for me. If you don't want saccharine sweet, G-rated, fairy tale screwing crap, skip this one.
Basically, if you take Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' (word for word, in some places: "My father needs me!" and "Then... you must go to him"... They even dress for dinner in a blue suit and a yellow dress!) and throw a Bible at it with some flashbacks from an Iraqi War movie... y'got this book. It's a JEE-zus-ified version of a fairy tale.
I got this because I like fairy tales. Particularly 'Beauty and the Beast' re-tellings. But this one was so wrapped up in alcoholism, gettin' right with Gawd, and PTSD that the actual relationship development was completely sacrificed. ((What am I SAYING! This is a chrischun book - it's a sin to write relationship development, unless it's a relationship with Gawd.)) The relationship development is the WHOLE POINT of the 'Beauty and the Beast' story, hello...
Cole is a double amputee (right arm, left leg... so as to be convenient for using crutches, naturally) and he's steeped in guilt because his being drunk during a raid in the Middle East resulted in the death of a kid he'd taken a shine to. He's retreated to his 'castle' in the woods, and when he rescues Beauty's father from a car crash in the woods, it turns out Beauty's dad is a prosthetics maker, and Beauty can outfit Beast with fake parts better than anyone on earth... so he sets her up in his house, and she heals his alcoholism and gives him body parts, while the kid who blew up and his trusty Bible bring Cole to Gawd.
And it's all shallow-end spirituality, too. Verses consist of Psalm 23 ('The Lord is my Shepherd', the most famous in the Bible), the tenets of faith are completely flawed (Beckett went to Heaven when he died... try to find THAT in your Bible, anywhere. And the JEE-zus that appeared to Beckett in a vision had nail-scarred hands. The Bible's Messiah - upon returning to the right hand of the Father - was transformed and is NOT scarred, any longer. See Revelation 1 for details). Shoddy, sheeple BS that doesn't match scripture.
And really, do we HAVE to have an agenda in our books? Seriously? I just... It ruined the story for me. If you don't want saccharine sweet, G-rated, fairy tale screwing crap, skip this one.
April 11, 2014
This compelling novella by Connie Almony is my top candidate for Best Bibliotherapy Book for 2014 on my blog. I am not a big contemporary romance reader but her story was so well written and so unique that I couldn't stop reading the story until I was done! Strong characterization and a nicely layered storyline. Will be looking for more from this talented author!
June 7, 2017
Amazing story of redemption and love!
Beautifully written tale that surprised me with its inspirational theme. I was looking for the hero's emotional and physical healing processes but was pleasantly surprised to find spirituality that the author had seamlessly woven through Cole's journey. I do not ordinarily read Christian fiction,but I found this book riveting.
Beautifully written tale that surprised me with its inspirational theme. I was looking for the hero's emotional and physical healing processes but was pleasantly surprised to find spirituality that the author had seamlessly woven through Cole's journey. I do not ordinarily read Christian fiction,but I found this book riveting.
February 13, 2018
4.5 stars...and absolutely precious. <3
June 21, 2014
In an effort to help save her father’s company while bettering the life of amputees, Carly Rose moves into the lavish home of an angry, liquor guzzling war veteran. She understands post traumatic stress disorder, and though her understanding helps, she still finds it quite difficult to help a man who not only appears to not want her there, but who seems to take great pleasure in mocking her when the chance arises. If not for her love for and loyalty to her father, she might leave… except the hints of sorrow she sees in his eyes compel her to stay. But how can she help bent on self-destruction?
As Beauty and the Beast has always been one of my favorite fairy tales, I clamored to read this modern day telling of the story. I expected to enjoy it, but I must say, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I found myself, on many nights, staying up much later than I should to read just one more chapter, then one more, then one more. Ms. Almony wrote with a depth and authenticity that gripped, flayed, and encouraged my heart—depending on the scene I was reading.
What struck me most was her skill at characterization. She did a masterful job with Cole, the gruff, wounded, yet tender hearted war veteran, revealing his personality through each piece of dialogue and flitting thought. His actions, word choices, and perceptions all pointed to a cohesive and dynamic individual I could easily visualize. Contrasted with the sweet, quiet, yet focused and determined Carly Rose, who was also masterfully crafted and revealed, Cole appeared all the more masculine and unique.
I was equally impressed with how Ms. Almony revealed Cole’s inner struggle as a former soldier who was now so dependent on others for even the most menial of tasks. I felt, it seemed, the entire spectrum of human emotions as through his experiences of being hopeful for increased independence, fearful of his inner demons, terrified of failure, terrified more of allowing hope to blossom only to have it shattered, his deep longing for love yet his distrust of it… Bravo, Ms. Almony! At the Edge of a Dark Forest is a brilliant story of love, hope, and deep emotional healing.
As Beauty and the Beast has always been one of my favorite fairy tales, I clamored to read this modern day telling of the story. I expected to enjoy it, but I must say, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I found myself, on many nights, staying up much later than I should to read just one more chapter, then one more, then one more. Ms. Almony wrote with a depth and authenticity that gripped, flayed, and encouraged my heart—depending on the scene I was reading.
What struck me most was her skill at characterization. She did a masterful job with Cole, the gruff, wounded, yet tender hearted war veteran, revealing his personality through each piece of dialogue and flitting thought. His actions, word choices, and perceptions all pointed to a cohesive and dynamic individual I could easily visualize. Contrasted with the sweet, quiet, yet focused and determined Carly Rose, who was also masterfully crafted and revealed, Cole appeared all the more masculine and unique.
I was equally impressed with how Ms. Almony revealed Cole’s inner struggle as a former soldier who was now so dependent on others for even the most menial of tasks. I felt, it seemed, the entire spectrum of human emotions as through his experiences of being hopeful for increased independence, fearful of his inner demons, terrified of failure, terrified more of allowing hope to blossom only to have it shattered, his deep longing for love yet his distrust of it… Bravo, Ms. Almony! At the Edge of a Dark Forest is a brilliant story of love, hope, and deep emotional healing.
April 24, 2014
Beauty…and the Beast
In At The Edge Of A Dark Forest, Connie Almony has written a haunting but breathtakingly beautiful story reminiscent of the classic tale; The Beauty and the Beast. Set amongst the alluring beauty of a lush, green pine forest sits a huge mansion that wreaks of wealth, wherein a lonely man resides—scarred both inside and out—an ugly, disfigured "beast" unworthy of love and acceptance, at least in his own mind.
An IED in Iraq has cost Cole Harrison the loss of an arm and a leg and numerous scars, not to mention his self respect. Immersed in guilt over a long buried secret and shame of his ghastly appearance, Cole drowns himself in alcohol and self-pity. His "beastly" behavior extends to all those around him, including Carly Rose who contracts to live with Cole and train him to use his new limbs; a new prototype prosthetic which she invented herself. As Carly (who he has nicknamed Beauty) and Cole begin to draw closer, she sees beyond his outward appearance—to the nightmares and mental anguish the war has inflicted upon this man's spirit. She can help him use his new limbs, but must she walk away from Cole permanently…and leave his inner healing to the One who knows all? Will a mysterious package from the past help hold the key to Cole's healing as well?
Connie Almony is a new author to me and what an awesome talent she is! I was drawn into this emotive, powerful story from page one and I quickly devoured it. My emotions were all over the page (literally) and ranged from compassion towards Cole, to anger, to frustration, to deep sorrow…as I know Carly's were as well. What an amazingly tough and realistic heroine she is! This story is such a beautiful tribute and "thank you" to all of our wounded warriors and members of the military who sacrifice their lives daily for our freedom—and to those who help them to heal. I highly applaud you, Connie Almony, for such a compassionate portrayal of one such warrior and one such lady.
In At The Edge Of A Dark Forest, Connie Almony has written a haunting but breathtakingly beautiful story reminiscent of the classic tale; The Beauty and the Beast. Set amongst the alluring beauty of a lush, green pine forest sits a huge mansion that wreaks of wealth, wherein a lonely man resides—scarred both inside and out—an ugly, disfigured "beast" unworthy of love and acceptance, at least in his own mind.
An IED in Iraq has cost Cole Harrison the loss of an arm and a leg and numerous scars, not to mention his self respect. Immersed in guilt over a long buried secret and shame of his ghastly appearance, Cole drowns himself in alcohol and self-pity. His "beastly" behavior extends to all those around him, including Carly Rose who contracts to live with Cole and train him to use his new limbs; a new prototype prosthetic which she invented herself. As Carly (who he has nicknamed Beauty) and Cole begin to draw closer, she sees beyond his outward appearance—to the nightmares and mental anguish the war has inflicted upon this man's spirit. She can help him use his new limbs, but must she walk away from Cole permanently…and leave his inner healing to the One who knows all? Will a mysterious package from the past help hold the key to Cole's healing as well?
Connie Almony is a new author to me and what an awesome talent she is! I was drawn into this emotive, powerful story from page one and I quickly devoured it. My emotions were all over the page (literally) and ranged from compassion towards Cole, to anger, to frustration, to deep sorrow…as I know Carly's were as well. What an amazingly tough and realistic heroine she is! This story is such a beautiful tribute and "thank you" to all of our wounded warriors and members of the military who sacrifice their lives daily for our freedom—and to those who help them to heal. I highly applaud you, Connie Almony, for such a compassionate portrayal of one such warrior and one such lady.
February 23, 2015
Final feeling: some good messages, unsatisfying beauty-and-the-beast retelling
Pros: plot pacing was good until the ending.
The author showed a good knowledge of the subject matter, amputees, PTSD, and alcoholism.
Many messages in the story were good.
Cons:
Romance lacking greatly. One of the key components of beauty-and-the-beast that separates it from other fairytales is that Beauty is the hero of the story. The author made a point of telling the reader that Beauty is not the hero, as if a human cannot be a hero, and then hands the hero role to a dead soldier. The Beauty in the story all but disappeared at the story's climax, only to show up in the last couple pages for the happy ending. Very disappointing for a lover of B-and-the-B.
I didn't like Carly. She was the Beauty of the story, but instead of winning the beast over with her love, she scolds him like an older sister and constantly puts him in his place. No wonder she lost the starring role in the end.
There was no moment of transformation in the end (it may have been implied, I'm not sure). What could have been the most poignant moment in the story was skipped at the end, leaving me wondering--did the beast change? What happened at the most crucial moment in the story? There is a great build-up, then no epiphany. Just a jump to the aftermath.
The message lacked important principles. For all the preaching in the novel, where was forgiveness or redemption? Another b-and-the-b component missing.
I admit I'm a tough reviewer on this one, mostly because I love beauty-and-the-beast stories so much. I found this one rather disappointing.
Pros: plot pacing was good until the ending.
The author showed a good knowledge of the subject matter, amputees, PTSD, and alcoholism.
Many messages in the story were good.
Cons:
Romance lacking greatly. One of the key components of beauty-and-the-beast that separates it from other fairytales is that Beauty is the hero of the story. The author made a point of telling the reader that Beauty is not the hero, as if a human cannot be a hero, and then hands the hero role to a dead soldier. The Beauty in the story all but disappeared at the story's climax, only to show up in the last couple pages for the happy ending. Very disappointing for a lover of B-and-the-B.
I didn't like Carly. She was the Beauty of the story, but instead of winning the beast over with her love, she scolds him like an older sister and constantly puts him in his place. No wonder she lost the starring role in the end.
There was no moment of transformation in the end (it may have been implied, I'm not sure). What could have been the most poignant moment in the story was skipped at the end, leaving me wondering--did the beast change? What happened at the most crucial moment in the story? There is a great build-up, then no epiphany. Just a jump to the aftermath.
The message lacked important principles. For all the preaching in the novel, where was forgiveness or redemption? Another b-and-the-b component missing.
I admit I'm a tough reviewer on this one, mostly because I love beauty-and-the-beast stories so much. I found this one rather disappointing.
December 22, 2015
DNF
I could not get through this. I tried and tired and tried.
Carly is hired to make a prosthetic for Cole. Was injured while serving. He lost an arm and a leg. Carly's brothers ruined her father's business. Now Carly is trying to get her father's company and reputation back by making sure that Cole gets the best. Cole demands on the first day they meet that she move in the first day. I am not sure where that came from. It all felt odd and out of place. Then there is a lot of other stuff, but I became very bored and had to quit after trying three times to get back in the story..
I wanted to like this book, but I could not connect. Not sure if it was because it was written in third person or in DUAL POVs or what. The book concentrated too much on the mechanics and not on the relationship.
I loved these type of stories, but it all came off odd as if it was written in pieces. It may work for you, but it did not work for me.
I could not get through this. I tried and tired and tried.
Carly is hired to make a prosthetic for Cole. Was injured while serving. He lost an arm and a leg. Carly's brothers ruined her father's business. Now Carly is trying to get her father's company and reputation back by making sure that Cole gets the best. Cole demands on the first day they meet that she move in the first day. I am not sure where that came from. It all felt odd and out of place. Then there is a lot of other stuff, but I became very bored and had to quit after trying three times to get back in the story..
I wanted to like this book, but I could not connect. Not sure if it was because it was written in third person or in DUAL POVs or what. The book concentrated too much on the mechanics and not on the relationship.
I loved these type of stories, but it all came off odd as if it was written in pieces. It may work for you, but it did not work for me.
October 12, 2015
I love Beauty and the Beast retellings. This was a good idea, but as a novella there wasn't enough time...or time was spent on things better left out. The supporting characters are great.
Relationship building was weak so I didn't believe they had fallen in love. Important parts of the original weren't in this--no library, the ones who saves the Beast is a dead soldier instead of Beauty, the transformation is skipped with Beauty coming back after to see its results, etc.
What reduced my appreciation for this story was the sloppy 'Christian' angle. Premonitions and hearing a voice in your head are paranormal attributes. Other Scriptural mistakes added to my worry that a non-Christian will read this and believe this is what Christianity is like.
It was nice to read a clean story.
Relationship building was weak so I didn't believe they had fallen in love. Important parts of the original weren't in this--no library, the ones who saves the Beast is a dead soldier instead of Beauty, the transformation is skipped with Beauty coming back after to see its results, etc.
What reduced my appreciation for this story was the sloppy 'Christian' angle. Premonitions and hearing a voice in your head are paranormal attributes. Other Scriptural mistakes added to my worry that a non-Christian will read this and believe this is what Christianity is like.
It was nice to read a clean story.
August 18, 2014
Just read this moving novella on my vacation and it was just the perfect length. I loved the creative way the Beauty and the Beast storyline was retold without being a blatant knockoff of the story. Cole's struggles with PTSD and alcoholism were well-addressed, and I can't recommend this highly enough to anyone who has been in service. Carly was also a very likable character, determined to use her abilities with prosthetics and physical therapy to help her father's business survive. There were definitely some teary moments in this one! I really enjoyed this refreshing twist on a classic fairy tale.
April 16, 2015
Very Touching
It was not just a beauty and the beast tale... It touched me in many ways seeing how the wounded hero found God. The author conveys both point of views but it is touching to see Coles point of view as he finds purpose in his life. I have to admit it even brought tears to my eyes.
It was not just a beauty and the beast tale... It touched me in many ways seeing how the wounded hero found God. The author conveys both point of views but it is touching to see Coles point of view as he finds purpose in his life. I have to admit it even brought tears to my eyes.
May 4, 2020
This was supposed to be a modern day Beauty and the Beast, but I felt it was more. Yes there was ugliness (scarring and lost limb) and yes there was anger and a beautiful woman.
But I almost wish there wasn't that comparison because this story has merits all its own, with great writing, and a whole different bent than the old story.
Read it. It's good.
But I almost wish there wasn't that comparison because this story has merits all its own, with great writing, and a whole different bent than the old story.
Read it. It's good.
December 10, 2025
A unique contemporary reimagining of Beauty and the Beast that’s saturated in emotion and faith.
There are some darker elements to this story which had me a bit wary at first. I was worried that Cole’s issues would be dealt with superficially (this is a novella, after all) and the seriousness of the situation warranted so much more. Almony proved my concerns were baseless though, and after finishing ‘At the Edge of a Dark Forest’, I wasn’t surprised to discover that she has a background in Christian counselling. What a powerful overcoming faith journey!
Loved the way the author wove classic fairy tale elements into this modern day retelling. Sometimes obvious, other times more subtle and genuinely unique to this particular story. This is my first Connie Almony reading experience but I’ll definitely be reading more of her books after finishing this compelling fairy tale retelling.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/12/10/a...
There are some darker elements to this story which had me a bit wary at first. I was worried that Cole’s issues would be dealt with superficially (this is a novella, after all) and the seriousness of the situation warranted so much more. Almony proved my concerns were baseless though, and after finishing ‘At the Edge of a Dark Forest’, I wasn’t surprised to discover that she has a background in Christian counselling. What a powerful overcoming faith journey!
Loved the way the author wove classic fairy tale elements into this modern day retelling. Sometimes obvious, other times more subtle and genuinely unique to this particular story. This is my first Connie Almony reading experience but I’ll definitely be reading more of her books after finishing this compelling fairy tale retelling.
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2025/12/10/a...
November 10, 2017
A Modern Retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
A veteran battling guilt, PTSD and alcoholism.
A daughter desperate to save her father's reputation, as well help the people who have been wounded through war.
One thing I really appreciated was how Carly recognised Cole was looking to her as his rescue and knowing that while she could be there for him, she couldn't save him from his demons. She knew her love alone would not be enough. So she backed away. Most times you read of hero or heroine wanting to be the saviour, so that then they can point the one they love to the true Saviour. It was refreshing to read of a character stepping back from that role, and saying, "No, only God is worthy of that role in your life."
I was uncomfortable though with the whole vision thing, though.
A veteran battling guilt, PTSD and alcoholism.
A daughter desperate to save her father's reputation, as well help the people who have been wounded through war.
One thing I really appreciated was how Carly recognised Cole was looking to her as his rescue and knowing that while she could be there for him, she couldn't save him from his demons. She knew her love alone would not be enough. So she backed away. Most times you read of hero or heroine wanting to be the saviour, so that then they can point the one they love to the true Saviour. It was refreshing to read of a character stepping back from that role, and saying, "No, only God is worthy of that role in your life."
I was uncomfortable though with the whole vision thing, though.
July 3, 2019
I always love fairy tale re-tellings, which is why I decided to read this book. What I wasn't expecting was a story so rooted in realism. I felt like I was reading a story that could have actually happened. There was no sentimentality, no perfectly beautiful people, no hard to believe rom-com scenarios. Don't get me wrong, I'm a sucker for all of those things, but this story was really refreshing to read. I also loved the emphasis on how romantic love can't change a man - only Jesus can. Some might find the religious parts of this book are too overdone, but I personally as a Christian felt it was all authentic. It boldly shares the gospel through Cole's story, which really impacted me. It was also a short, quick read! I look forward to reading the rest in this series.
August 6, 2021
Wow
This book was so good, I could not stop thinking about it.
I did not like Cole at the beginning, but watched as he changes and becomes the man he needs to be.
And NEEDTOBREATHE!
This book was so good, I could not stop thinking about it.
I did not like Cole at the beginning, but watched as he changes and becomes the man he needs to be.
And NEEDTOBREATHE!
May 12, 2018
This is a very well-written modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I really enjoyed reading it.
March 12, 2017
I was hooked from the beginning. The tension between Carly and Cole is palatable! During the course of their story, I even found myself tearing up. I enjoyed watching as Cole worked his way from brokenness to wholeness. I highly recommend this book.
October 6, 2016
Heart warming
I really liked her characters and bring the greatest of Beliving In God to light. I will read more of jher books.
I really liked her characters and bring the greatest of Beliving In God to light. I will read more of jher books.
June 26, 2014
I feel almost speechless. As if no words I conjure up could do justice to the way I feel about, AT THE EDGE OF A DARK FOREST (A Fairwilde Reflections Novella) by CONNIE ALMONY. To say that I didn’t want it to end, is an understatement. If I had the ability, I’d make this amazing story into a movie. A movie that would no doubt become one of my favorites.
I have a special place in my heart for the retelling of fairytales. Beauty and the Beast being at the top of the list, right beside Cinderella. I tend to latch onto any movie that comes out with a new version of one of the classics I loves so much. Though I have read a few such stories, I don’t recall reading one that captured me the way AT THE EDGE OF A DARK FOREST has.
Cole Harrison is a bitter man, but not because he is lacking of worldly possessions. The wall he has built up around his heart has left him a man not many dare to get close to.
Carly Rose is put into a situation she has little choice but to endure. Her love for her father has her encountering a mission and a man that seems at first appearances, impossible.
I can’t provide much of a synopsis for this story, for in doing so I would write a good portion of the book. I, a slow reader, with little time, finished this amazing story in just two short days. Every time I attempted to put it down, it silently called to me. My emotions reeling from only completing it moments ago, are nearly too raw to express the horde of feeling it has created.
I guess it goes without saying that I am now a fan of MS ALMONY. Her writing is amazing, just as her storytelling. I was engrossed, inspired, intrigued, laughed, and cried. The author created many great lines that caused me to smile, my skin to have goose bumps, and my eyes to tear up.
AT THE EDGE OF A DARK FOREST is a clever and unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast. MS ALMONY took an unlikely twist to the storyline, yet kept the core of the story alive. I have never encountered a retelling of a story that kept the basic elements, with such a unique twist. I loved every word. Every scene. The beginning, the middle, and the end. It never disappointed. Not for a second.
Aside from the unique storyline, I LOVED how MS ALMONY incorporated bits of the original story through the characters. It was absolutely brilliant, adding to the overall charm of the story and characters. Though they referred to Beauty and the Beast, you never felt as though the story was mimicking it…yet it was so similar…in a unique way.
I love every character, each unique and three-dimensional. I love how MS ALMONY brought to the story things that you typically wouldn’t find in faith based fiction. The Christianity was relevant to life, subtle, yet so powerful.
Okay, enough. I could go on and on. Do yourself a favor – get this book.
I have a special place in my heart for the retelling of fairytales. Beauty and the Beast being at the top of the list, right beside Cinderella. I tend to latch onto any movie that comes out with a new version of one of the classics I loves so much. Though I have read a few such stories, I don’t recall reading one that captured me the way AT THE EDGE OF A DARK FOREST has.
Cole Harrison is a bitter man, but not because he is lacking of worldly possessions. The wall he has built up around his heart has left him a man not many dare to get close to.
Carly Rose is put into a situation she has little choice but to endure. Her love for her father has her encountering a mission and a man that seems at first appearances, impossible.
I can’t provide much of a synopsis for this story, for in doing so I would write a good portion of the book. I, a slow reader, with little time, finished this amazing story in just two short days. Every time I attempted to put it down, it silently called to me. My emotions reeling from only completing it moments ago, are nearly too raw to express the horde of feeling it has created.
I guess it goes without saying that I am now a fan of MS ALMONY. Her writing is amazing, just as her storytelling. I was engrossed, inspired, intrigued, laughed, and cried. The author created many great lines that caused me to smile, my skin to have goose bumps, and my eyes to tear up.
AT THE EDGE OF A DARK FOREST is a clever and unique retelling of Beauty and the Beast. MS ALMONY took an unlikely twist to the storyline, yet kept the core of the story alive. I have never encountered a retelling of a story that kept the basic elements, with such a unique twist. I loved every word. Every scene. The beginning, the middle, and the end. It never disappointed. Not for a second.
Aside from the unique storyline, I LOVED how MS ALMONY incorporated bits of the original story through the characters. It was absolutely brilliant, adding to the overall charm of the story and characters. Though they referred to Beauty and the Beast, you never felt as though the story was mimicking it…yet it was so similar…in a unique way.
I love every character, each unique and three-dimensional. I love how MS ALMONY brought to the story things that you typically wouldn’t find in faith based fiction. The Christianity was relevant to life, subtle, yet so powerful.
Okay, enough. I could go on and on. Do yourself a favor – get this book.
May 26, 2014
Wounded Warrior Finds Ultimate Purpose (review of At the Edge of a Dark Forest by Connie Almony)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
*****5 Stars*****Would give 10 Stars if I could!
At the Edge of a Dark Forest, a novella by Connie Almony, starts with an emotional roller coaster ride as two men are on similar paths to self destruct. A divine appointment for their lives to intersect puts each man on course to counter the other's plans to end life before it goes from bad to worse. Once their lives are rescued from the brink, the reader really wants to know the purpose of each man's life. Enter into the story at this point a love interest for the afflicted vet who seems quite beastly with disfiguring war injuries on the outside enhanced by equally disturbing internal combativeness. He uses alcohol for its numbing qualities to deal with his PTSD, and to basically make other people not want to be around him.
The character development is superb. The story seemed very realistic in its portrayal of a vet afflicted with PTSD. The disease permeates every aspect of life,and puts fear into the family or close relations who only want to help the sufferer. The faith factor in the book rings true for believers, however those who read the book and are not believers may question that encounters with God could make that much of a difference. God does promise to bring good out of bad things that happen for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. This book is a great example of how that verse can apply in the life of a completely broken, physically and emotionally, person who chooses to go with God toward the better life He offers.
Today is Memorial Day so what a fitting day to finish this book. I am so thankful I won it from a contest and had the satisfaction of reading this author's style of storytelling which is believable, engaging and manages to pull everything together by book's end in an uplifting way.
I believe this book could be helpful to anyone who suffers from PTSD or alcoholism. Family members, counselors, church members and others would gain wisdom through reading this book to help the helpers know better approaches. Many people push God out of their worldview. They do not see the potential for a good outcome made possible with the inclusion of God. This book reveals God's goodness and His glory as He works out His excellent plans. The story may be based on a fairy tale, but believers know this is exactly how God works.
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
*****5 Stars*****Would give 10 Stars if I could!
At the Edge of a Dark Forest, a novella by Connie Almony, starts with an emotional roller coaster ride as two men are on similar paths to self destruct. A divine appointment for their lives to intersect puts each man on course to counter the other's plans to end life before it goes from bad to worse. Once their lives are rescued from the brink, the reader really wants to know the purpose of each man's life. Enter into the story at this point a love interest for the afflicted vet who seems quite beastly with disfiguring war injuries on the outside enhanced by equally disturbing internal combativeness. He uses alcohol for its numbing qualities to deal with his PTSD, and to basically make other people not want to be around him.
The character development is superb. The story seemed very realistic in its portrayal of a vet afflicted with PTSD. The disease permeates every aspect of life,and puts fear into the family or close relations who only want to help the sufferer. The faith factor in the book rings true for believers, however those who read the book and are not believers may question that encounters with God could make that much of a difference. God does promise to bring good out of bad things that happen for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes. This book is a great example of how that verse can apply in the life of a completely broken, physically and emotionally, person who chooses to go with God toward the better life He offers.
Today is Memorial Day so what a fitting day to finish this book. I am so thankful I won it from a contest and had the satisfaction of reading this author's style of storytelling which is believable, engaging and manages to pull everything together by book's end in an uplifting way.
I believe this book could be helpful to anyone who suffers from PTSD or alcoholism. Family members, counselors, church members and others would gain wisdom through reading this book to help the helpers know better approaches. Many people push God out of their worldview. They do not see the potential for a good outcome made possible with the inclusion of God. This book reveals God's goodness and His glory as He works out His excellent plans. The story may be based on a fairy tale, but believers know this is exactly how God works.
April 18, 2014
At the Edge of a Dark Forest by Connie Almony is a wonderful story of love between a man and a woman and the love of God for man. Cole Harrison is a veteran of the Iraq War and he came home missing his left leg and his right arm. He also has a disfiguring scar on his face and head but that was not a result of the war. Carly Rose is the daughter of the man that developed artificial limbs that work almost like human limbs but the business was almost destroyed by the dishonesty of Carly’s two brothers. She is determined to help her father rebuilt his company and she approaches Cole to try the artificial limbs and then hopefully he will invest in the company.
Connie did an superb job in the writing of this story and developed every element of the story in a way that touched my heart. The characters were so realistically portrayed that I almost forgot that they were fictional characters in a book. Every scene in the story was so true to life that I was right in the middle of the action. At times the dialogue was so intense that I had to take a deep breath and keep on reading. Cole felt that if he treated Carly with disdain and spoke harshly to her that she would leave him alone but she would not be discouraged by his speech and actions. I have not read such a touching story in quite some time. There were a few laughs in the story but most of the time I was reading with tears in my eyes. However, do not let that keep you from reading the story for I am just a softie and get very emotionally involved in books that I read. The story had a great ending!
I highly recommend this book to everyone that enjoys a book that shows what love can accomplish– the love of a woman for a man and the love of God.
Thanks to the author, Connie Almony, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Connie did an superb job in the writing of this story and developed every element of the story in a way that touched my heart. The characters were so realistically portrayed that I almost forgot that they were fictional characters in a book. Every scene in the story was so true to life that I was right in the middle of the action. At times the dialogue was so intense that I had to take a deep breath and keep on reading. Cole felt that if he treated Carly with disdain and spoke harshly to her that she would leave him alone but she would not be discouraged by his speech and actions. I have not read such a touching story in quite some time. There were a few laughs in the story but most of the time I was reading with tears in my eyes. However, do not let that keep you from reading the story for I am just a softie and get very emotionally involved in books that I read. The story had a great ending!
I highly recommend this book to everyone that enjoys a book that shows what love can accomplish– the love of a woman for a man and the love of God.
Thanks to the author, Connie Almony, for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
April 15, 2014
This book is a retelling of the fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast, for modern times, in a spiritual vein. It was recommended to me by a facebook friend. It was only .99 for my Nook, so I figured it wouldn't be much of a loss if I didn't care for the book.
That .99 was money well spent. This story drew me in from the first page. Connie Almony writes very well and had me hooked all the way to the end.
Cole Harrison is an Iraqi war veteran whose injuries make him feel totally worthless, unlovable and even disgusting. He has no use for God at all, even hating Him. One night, during a walk in the dark forest, he helps a man whose car has crashed. This man's daughter, Carly Rose, agrees to work with Cole to provide him with a good prosthesis for his missing limbs.
No more here because I don't want to spoil the story for those who haven't read it. This little book, only 129 pages, shows the reader how God actually works behind the scenes to achieve His will in the lives of His children.
It really is worth the time to read this precious little book.
That .99 was money well spent. This story drew me in from the first page. Connie Almony writes very well and had me hooked all the way to the end.
Cole Harrison is an Iraqi war veteran whose injuries make him feel totally worthless, unlovable and even disgusting. He has no use for God at all, even hating Him. One night, during a walk in the dark forest, he helps a man whose car has crashed. This man's daughter, Carly Rose, agrees to work with Cole to provide him with a good prosthesis for his missing limbs.
No more here because I don't want to spoil the story for those who haven't read it. This little book, only 129 pages, shows the reader how God actually works behind the scenes to achieve His will in the lives of His children.
It really is worth the time to read this precious little book.
October 12, 2015
This idea was great! But bombed.
The romance was left behind in favor of pages of beastly attributes. They were necessary to the story and made it modern but didn't leave room for a development of a relationship. I didn't believe them falling in love because they didn't have time.
The Christian angle started out good and then fell apart. Hearing voices is a sign of schizophrenia. Even Jesus didn't hear God when he was by himself. Premonitions are the work of psychics, not God. Other reviews mentioned the heaven scene and how that didn't agree with Scripture either. I feel bad that non-Christians will read this and think this is what Christianity is like. Forgiveness of sins was surprisingly absent.
The retelling had its weaknesses as well. The father is the one who makes the arrangement for his daughter to help the beast. The hero, instead of being Beauty, is a dead soldier. The heroine brings her own books, a library isn't in this story. The transformation happens while the heroine is away--she comes back and he is already all better.
The romance was left behind in favor of pages of beastly attributes. They were necessary to the story and made it modern but didn't leave room for a development of a relationship. I didn't believe them falling in love because they didn't have time.
The Christian angle started out good and then fell apart. Hearing voices is a sign of schizophrenia. Even Jesus didn't hear God when he was by himself. Premonitions are the work of psychics, not God. Other reviews mentioned the heaven scene and how that didn't agree with Scripture either. I feel bad that non-Christians will read this and think this is what Christianity is like. Forgiveness of sins was surprisingly absent.
The retelling had its weaknesses as well. The father is the one who makes the arrangement for his daughter to help the beast. The hero, instead of being Beauty, is a dead soldier. The heroine brings her own books, a library isn't in this story. The transformation happens while the heroine is away--she comes back and he is already all better.
April 14, 2014
Compelling, timely, and enthralling are only a few words to describe this book. This book reads like the telling of a true story. A war vet, a daughter wanting to help her dad, people in service to a rich family, a dead soldier's family all play a part in showing God's grace and how much he wants to be a part of our lives- even when someone doesn't want to acknowledge God's calling to us. This book was hard to put down once I started it. The author did a good job of showing what vets coming back from war go through. I especially liked the part when Carly is called away- sometimes we need a reminder to do what God needs us to do and then we need to get out of His way and let Him do the rest. I was given a copy of this book for my honest review. Don't skip this one!
July 30, 2014
Even though this is a modern-day retelling of a fairy tale, it is a many-layered story for our times with an inviolable spiritual thread. It is very realistic and emotionally engaging. The characters are interesting and the country setting is a wonderful backdrop.
The complex plot drew me in and I was reticent to lay the book down before I finished it. The story grabbed hold of me and didn’t want to let me go.
If you like a story with strong characters and unique situations, you might really like At the Edge of a Dark Forest.
The complex plot drew me in and I was reticent to lay the book down before I finished it. The story grabbed hold of me and didn’t want to let me go.
If you like a story with strong characters and unique situations, you might really like At the Edge of a Dark Forest.
March 26, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Connie is a great writer. Her characters are human and very likeable. I meant to read only the first couple of chapters today as I had other things to do. I became so involved with her characters that I couldn't put the book down until I finished it. I started it because Connie was looking for reviews (I was given a copy for review purposes). I finished it because it was awesome. The tie-in with Beauty and the Beast was icing on the cake.
April 19, 2014
This book covers a very difficult subject very well.
The Marine Veteran amputee with PTSD and Alcoholism and how with the help of several people especially Carly who came to fit him for prosthetic leg and arm showed him life was worth living, And God truly loved him. It is neat that Connie Almony showed how real the problems are, and how God and people can help you overcome them.
The biggest disability in the World is the words "I cant do it"
The Marine Veteran amputee with PTSD and Alcoholism and how with the help of several people especially Carly who came to fit him for prosthetic leg and arm showed him life was worth living, And God truly loved him. It is neat that Connie Almony showed how real the problems are, and how God and people can help you overcome them.
The biggest disability in the World is the words "I cant do it"
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