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Inside Outside
INSIDE OUTSIDE: is an International Award Winning Domestic Psychological Suspense dealing with the reality of mental health, fear, and trauma while championing the strength and tenacity of the human spirit.
INSIDE OUTSIDE is an intense emotional, psychological story of two women from different worlds who are both imprisoned by obedience, obligation, and obsession.
Told from a dual point-of-view the reader is drawn into the worlds of both Leslie and Selena.
Leslie is good at keeping secrets—she’s been doing it her entire life. On the surface, she had it all...
Successful career, stunning home, and a marriage others envied, but her husband’s betrayal shatters the fantasy and sends her spiraling into self-destructive behaviors that leave her feeling empty and alone.
She retreats from life but inexplicably finds herself drawn to a high school student she spots across the street.
The girl, Selena, reminds her so much of her younger self—on the fringes and isolated.
Convinced the girl needs protecting, Leslie casually and quietly inserts herself into Selena’s daily life.
We learn that Selena’s world is far from perfect—a new school in senior year, a dilapidated house filled with secrets, and two younger sisters to shield from her mother’s sleazy boyfriend.
She’s trapped by circumstance and necessity.
Leslie and Selena are brought together as secrets unravel, lines are crossed and boundaries blurred.
In this gripping domestic thriller, two lives on the edge of desperation are entwined in such a way that their lives will ever be the same.
INSIDE OUTSIDE is an intense emotional, psychological story of two women from different worlds who are both imprisoned by obedience, obligation, and obsession.
Told from a dual point-of-view the reader is drawn into the worlds of both Leslie and Selena.
Leslie is good at keeping secrets—she’s been doing it her entire life. On the surface, she had it all...
Successful career, stunning home, and a marriage others envied, but her husband’s betrayal shatters the fantasy and sends her spiraling into self-destructive behaviors that leave her feeling empty and alone.
She retreats from life but inexplicably finds herself drawn to a high school student she spots across the street.
The girl, Selena, reminds her so much of her younger self—on the fringes and isolated.
Convinced the girl needs protecting, Leslie casually and quietly inserts herself into Selena’s daily life.
We learn that Selena’s world is far from perfect—a new school in senior year, a dilapidated house filled with secrets, and two younger sisters to shield from her mother’s sleazy boyfriend.
She’s trapped by circumstance and necessity.
Leslie and Selena are brought together as secrets unravel, lines are crossed and boundaries blurred.
In this gripping domestic thriller, two lives on the edge of desperation are entwined in such a way that their lives will ever be the same.
330 pages, Paperback
Published October 31, 2024
12 people are currently reading
7825 people want to read
About the author
Faye Arcand
1 book45 followersFaye Arcand is a writer, author, and creative with a twisted writer brain.
She keenly observes with all senses in order to spin an event into a story, then take that creation and twist it into an experience… one that lingers.
Arcand loves participating in writing conferences, festivals, and literary events. She lives with her family in western Canada.
She keenly observes with all senses in order to spin an event into a story, then take that creation and twist it into an experience… one that lingers.
Arcand loves participating in writing conferences, festivals, and literary events. She lives with her family in western Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 19, 2025
This debut psychological story about found family, self-acceptance, mental health, and living with trauma was an emotional read. It was both character- and plot-driven with unexpected developments and intense scenes.
The story was told from the two main characters’ POVs who were both damaged people: Leslie, a divorced, middle-aged woman with an eating disorder, and Selena, a high school student living in a dysfunctional family. Their lives intersected and impacted each other as they both dealt with present and past trauma. I was impressed by how well the author wrote both perspectives, each of which was written in the first person. Each voice felt authentic and believable.
The characters were well developed and I liked how the author told parts of the story in dual timelines, creating parallels between the lives of Leslie when she was a teenager and that of Selena in the present time. Many parts of the story were heart wrenching but the novel was imbued with resiliency and hope. I was rooting for both characters.
The writing was smooth, the pacing generally good, and the ending was very effective. I would say to go in blind as the back cover synopsis did not do justice to this great read.
I am looking forward to more from this Canadian author!
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
P.S. This novel is a 2025 Nominee for The Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Readers' Choice Award!
The story was told from the two main characters’ POVs who were both damaged people: Leslie, a divorced, middle-aged woman with an eating disorder, and Selena, a high school student living in a dysfunctional family. Their lives intersected and impacted each other as they both dealt with present and past trauma. I was impressed by how well the author wrote both perspectives, each of which was written in the first person. Each voice felt authentic and believable.
The characters were well developed and I liked how the author told parts of the story in dual timelines, creating parallels between the lives of Leslie when she was a teenager and that of Selena in the present time. Many parts of the story were heart wrenching but the novel was imbued with resiliency and hope. I was rooting for both characters.
The writing was smooth, the pacing generally good, and the ending was very effective. I would say to go in blind as the back cover synopsis did not do justice to this great read.
I am looking forward to more from this Canadian author!
Thanks to the author for sending me a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
P.S. This novel is a 2025 Nominee for The Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Readers' Choice Award!
June 20, 2025
Inside Outside by Faye Arcand.
This book was an entertaining read. It had well established character development and entertaining storyline.
The twists were well woven in, keeping me intrigued throughout.
While it tackled some heavy emotional topics, the writing was engaging and easy to follow.
My only critique is that the pacing felt a bit slow for me at times, but overall, it's a good thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blue Robin Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book was an entertaining read. It had well established character development and entertaining storyline.
The twists were well woven in, keeping me intrigued throughout.
While it tackled some heavy emotional topics, the writing was engaging and easy to follow.
My only critique is that the pacing felt a bit slow for me at times, but overall, it's a good thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blue Robin Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 30, 2025
“Inside Outside” by Faye Arcand is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of personal growth, self-discovery, the complexity of human emotions, mental health, and the intertwined dynamics between our inner and outer narratives.
The story follows two women; Leslie, a woman challenged by her feelings of inadequacy and the profound stresses of life – and Selena, a teenager who has been forced to grow up quickly thanks to her toxic environment. Both women experience incredible turmoil that shapes their identities. The novel toggles between a series of interconnected scenes, offering glimpses into the lives of Leslie and Selena, both grappling with loneliness, regret, anger, anxiety, fear, and what the purpose of their lives may be.
Their lives parallel each other, then intercept directly, bringing readers full circle. It gradually builds up a series of subtle – yet significant – moments that lead to a very satisfying end. The pacing of the novel may be slow for some readers, but because Arcand does not rush the narrative, “Inside Outside” is a more realistic depiction of the character’s experiences. It doesn’t force unnecessary conflicts or cliffhangers but rather provides authentic and relatable dialogue to engage readers wholeheartedly. Arcand’s writing style and pacing strengthens the empathy and connections that readers will feel toward Selena and Leslie immensely.
The gradual development of their inner worlds put beside their outward experiences is where Arcand thrives. The pacing may not be as fast as some readers expect from a traditional thriller, but it works to fully immerse the reader and allow them to draw parallels to their own experiences.
“Inside Outside” explores how our internal world – our emotions, thoughts, and self-perceptions –significantly influences how we navigate “outside,” or through our physical experiences in the “real world.” The duality of inside versus outside serves as both a literal and metaphorical framework for Leslie’s and Selena’s journeys, and in turn, our own. The dual perspectives from the two protagonists expand on the theme and bring in additional, relatable themes of personal identity and relationships, making “Inside Outside” incredibly relatable. This symbolism adds an extra layer of depth and meaning, giving readers something to think about long after they’ve finished the book.
I would recommend “Inside Outside” to anyone who enjoys literary fiction and thought-provoking narratives, especially those diving into their personal identities to discover who they are, those struggling with mental health or traumatic experiences, or those who want a novel with significant, deep meaning. “Inside Outside” by Faye Arcand is a book that encourages reflection and contemplation, making it well-suited for readers who appreciate slower-paced works that explore the intricacies of human emotions and mental health.
The story follows two women; Leslie, a woman challenged by her feelings of inadequacy and the profound stresses of life – and Selena, a teenager who has been forced to grow up quickly thanks to her toxic environment. Both women experience incredible turmoil that shapes their identities. The novel toggles between a series of interconnected scenes, offering glimpses into the lives of Leslie and Selena, both grappling with loneliness, regret, anger, anxiety, fear, and what the purpose of their lives may be.
Their lives parallel each other, then intercept directly, bringing readers full circle. It gradually builds up a series of subtle – yet significant – moments that lead to a very satisfying end. The pacing of the novel may be slow for some readers, but because Arcand does not rush the narrative, “Inside Outside” is a more realistic depiction of the character’s experiences. It doesn’t force unnecessary conflicts or cliffhangers but rather provides authentic and relatable dialogue to engage readers wholeheartedly. Arcand’s writing style and pacing strengthens the empathy and connections that readers will feel toward Selena and Leslie immensely.
The gradual development of their inner worlds put beside their outward experiences is where Arcand thrives. The pacing may not be as fast as some readers expect from a traditional thriller, but it works to fully immerse the reader and allow them to draw parallels to their own experiences.
“Inside Outside” explores how our internal world – our emotions, thoughts, and self-perceptions –significantly influences how we navigate “outside,” or through our physical experiences in the “real world.” The duality of inside versus outside serves as both a literal and metaphorical framework for Leslie’s and Selena’s journeys, and in turn, our own. The dual perspectives from the two protagonists expand on the theme and bring in additional, relatable themes of personal identity and relationships, making “Inside Outside” incredibly relatable. This symbolism adds an extra layer of depth and meaning, giving readers something to think about long after they’ve finished the book.
I would recommend “Inside Outside” to anyone who enjoys literary fiction and thought-provoking narratives, especially those diving into their personal identities to discover who they are, those struggling with mental health or traumatic experiences, or those who want a novel with significant, deep meaning. “Inside Outside” by Faye Arcand is a book that encourages reflection and contemplation, making it well-suited for readers who appreciate slower-paced works that explore the intricacies of human emotions and mental health.
June 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers and author for the eARC.
This book was amazing, a train wreck you can’t stop reading.
Every imaginable horrible thing happened to these girls and women. If I had the time I would have flown through this in a day.
You’re reading and not really knowing who to trust. Everyone gives creepy vibes.
This book was amazing, a train wreck you can’t stop reading.
Every imaginable horrible thing happened to these girls and women. If I had the time I would have flown through this in a day.
You’re reading and not really knowing who to trust. Everyone gives creepy vibes.
August 23, 2025
I'm thankful for so many parts of the Montréal Mystery Festival, and meeting Faye Arcand is one of them.
She attended alongside so many other thriller fans, and is herself the author of Inside Outside.
Her writing drew me in right away. Many an evening were spent with my nose in the book, unable to look away from the flawed characters unraveling before me.
Chapters alternate between Leslie and Selena, damaged women of different ages and backgrounds drawn together by circumstance, need, and a touch of obsession.
It's a slow-burn story with dual timelines that builds to dark, shadowy reveals. It's clear the trauma these women have survived, both on and off page, and have clung to each other to get through.
The end of the book reveals Faye's next book is expected this year, and based on Inside Outside, I can't wait. Add me to the fan base!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy for review.
Very much recommended.
TW: infidelity, infertility, abuse, pregnancy, birth trauma, death.
She attended alongside so many other thriller fans, and is herself the author of Inside Outside.
Her writing drew me in right away. Many an evening were spent with my nose in the book, unable to look away from the flawed characters unraveling before me.
Chapters alternate between Leslie and Selena, damaged women of different ages and backgrounds drawn together by circumstance, need, and a touch of obsession.
It's a slow-burn story with dual timelines that builds to dark, shadowy reveals. It's clear the trauma these women have survived, both on and off page, and have clung to each other to get through.
The end of the book reveals Faye's next book is expected this year, and based on Inside Outside, I can't wait. Add me to the fan base!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy for review.
Very much recommended.
TW: infidelity, infertility, abuse, pregnancy, birth trauma, death.
December 22, 2025
I won this book through goodreads. As Leslie and her husband were going through fertility treatments her world tumbled when she discovered his cheating. As she deals with her depression she sits at the window watching the people go by when she notices a girl. As they connect with her giving her rides when she has none they discover they both are dealing with childhood issues etc. Can these two become friends and find happiness. My heart broke for each other these as they dealt with many issues and then the joy as things begin to turn around
August 10, 2025
I read this book in just a few days. Not my usual genre but once I read the first 10 chapters I couldn' t put it down. The characters were so very real. The way people are treated in life by others -good or bad- was portrayed the way it really is in the world. Nothing phony.
Like one of the main characters, I have people watched and could picture Limpy Mommy!
The ending was so surprising and I wasn' t sure how it would end. I gave this book to my mom to read when I was done.
I hope to see more books from this author.
Like one of the main characters, I have people watched and could picture Limpy Mommy!
The ending was so surprising and I wasn' t sure how it would end. I gave this book to my mom to read when I was done.
I hope to see more books from this author.
October 3, 2025
I enjoyed the writing in this novel, but I think it’s being marketed or a bit portrayed as a thriller or mystery and I would probably say this is more domestic suspense if anything. But the writing is amazing and I did find myself rooting for this characters and feeling all the feels.
December 19, 2024
A woman with an eating disorder watches people from her window refusing to leave the house. Currently Leslie’s life’s in crisis mode. She survives each day by sitting at her front window watching four strangers live their lives. One individual catches her attention to the point that she introduces herself to Selena.
…
Selena is a young beautiful teenager attending high school. She cares deeply for the well being of her two younger sisters. The home environment that her mother has built is unhealthy. The boyfriend is inappropriate with her younger sisters so she reports the situation to the school nurse.
…
Faye Arcand is a new to me author. Inside Outside is a slow burning domestic thriller that leans less on the thriller side. Leslie the main character begins stalking Selena a young high school student who captures her attention every morning jumping on the bus. Leslie sees something in Selena that reminds her of herself at that age. Leslie was a lone wolf growing up. In high school she fell in love with a boy. To her dismay her mothers interference changed the trajectory of her life.
…
This was by no means the type of story I set ff to read. I expected something completely different. Domestic thrillers come in a variety of ways but I admit this one took on an entirely unexpected approach.
…
Selena is a young beautiful teenager attending high school. She cares deeply for the well being of her two younger sisters. The home environment that her mother has built is unhealthy. The boyfriend is inappropriate with her younger sisters so she reports the situation to the school nurse.
…
Faye Arcand is a new to me author. Inside Outside is a slow burning domestic thriller that leans less on the thriller side. Leslie the main character begins stalking Selena a young high school student who captures her attention every morning jumping on the bus. Leslie sees something in Selena that reminds her of herself at that age. Leslie was a lone wolf growing up. In high school she fell in love with a boy. To her dismay her mothers interference changed the trajectory of her life.
…
This was by no means the type of story I set ff to read. I expected something completely different. Domestic thrillers come in a variety of ways but I admit this one took on an entirely unexpected approach.
June 12, 2025
Wow! This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. I was hooked from the very beginning.
Inside Outside follows Leslie, an author struggling with mental illness and self-destructive behaviours stemming from a horrific upbringing and her ex husband's devastating betrayal, and Selena, a 17 year old girl who's struggling to keep her sisters safe while completing school and working part time.
Leslie spends her days watching life go by outside her window, which is how she first becomes aware of Selena. After Selena makes a risky decision, Leslie decides she needs to step in and help. As their bond grows, they start to open up to each other about their lives, hoping to find support, love, and maybe even start healing.
The characters and storylines are so believable and feel so real. You can't help but feel deeply for the characters and hope for a happy ending for everyone, despite the very devastating twists life can and does throw at them.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of this book.
Inside Outside follows Leslie, an author struggling with mental illness and self-destructive behaviours stemming from a horrific upbringing and her ex husband's devastating betrayal, and Selena, a 17 year old girl who's struggling to keep her sisters safe while completing school and working part time.
Leslie spends her days watching life go by outside her window, which is how she first becomes aware of Selena. After Selena makes a risky decision, Leslie decides she needs to step in and help. As their bond grows, they start to open up to each other about their lives, hoping to find support, love, and maybe even start healing.
The characters and storylines are so believable and feel so real. You can't help but feel deeply for the characters and hope for a happy ending for everyone, despite the very devastating twists life can and does throw at them.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of this book.
April 14, 2025
Although I'm not normally a "thriller" reader, I had the opportunity some time ago to read the original draft of this book ... and now that it has gone through multiple drafts and edits, I looked forward to reading the published version. And I am glad I have! Faye has brought this novel a long way from its beginnings. I am especially impressed with how she has developed her characters. Way to go, Faye!
November 3, 2024
Love at first sight
I fell in love with the characters from the beginning. Believable and engaging storyline. I couldn’t put this book down. Very reflective of real life “being” with excellent pacing. Well done!
I fell in love with the characters from the beginning. Believable and engaging storyline. I couldn’t put this book down. Very reflective of real life “being” with excellent pacing. Well done!
November 23, 2024
I love a story with twists and turns and this one keeps you guessing. There are so many unexpected surprises. I really enjoyed reading Inside Outside.
March 20, 2025
I. could. not. put. this. novel. down. Layers of shocking, compelling content. I am not a crier, but this one made me cry. In a good way. I loved it.
May 4, 2025
A dark and twisty read. So good. I had a hard time putting the book down. I give this a two thumbs up. We'll done Faye!
August 10, 2025
A mesmerizing story of a woman living her life through the strangers outside her window, Inside Outside brings to mind the Rear Window, The Watcher, and The Woman in the Window. This suspenseful domestic thriller is a page-turner with its atmospheric setting and creepy stalker vibe.
The book follows the main character, Leslie, as she sits alone in her favourite chair with her binoculars, consuming junk food, and spying on the people at the small park across from her townhouse. It becomes apparent early on that Leslie is a recluse who avoids going out in public. The fact that she is a successful romance author who has recently undergone a traumatic divorce, underscores her isolation and the fantasy world she creates from the scene outside her home. Of most interest to Leslie is Selena, the young girl who waits at the bus stop by the park.
With the point of view alternating between Leslie’s solitary life and Selena’s abusive home life, the suspense builds. Flashbacks to Leslie’s youth form a parallel to Selena’s current life as Leslie becomes increasingly obsessed with the young girl. When Selena appears to put herself in danger, Leslie follows her, convincing herself she is looking out for the girl. Leslie’s true motivation is unclear, which keeps the reader hooked.
Full of family issues and emotional turmoil, Inside Outside provides a satisfying read for lovers of domestic drama and suspense. Author Arcand offers a glimpse into the mind of a woman tormented by her traumatic past and the aftereffects. As her ex-husband and strangers she encounters question her sanity, and her best friend shows concern for her state of mind, Leslie’s actions lead the reader to wonder about her agenda. With one revelation after another, you won’t be able to put down the book until the final secrets are unveiled. And even then, Leslie and Selena’s story will stay with you.
The book follows the main character, Leslie, as she sits alone in her favourite chair with her binoculars, consuming junk food, and spying on the people at the small park across from her townhouse. It becomes apparent early on that Leslie is a recluse who avoids going out in public. The fact that she is a successful romance author who has recently undergone a traumatic divorce, underscores her isolation and the fantasy world she creates from the scene outside her home. Of most interest to Leslie is Selena, the young girl who waits at the bus stop by the park.
With the point of view alternating between Leslie’s solitary life and Selena’s abusive home life, the suspense builds. Flashbacks to Leslie’s youth form a parallel to Selena’s current life as Leslie becomes increasingly obsessed with the young girl. When Selena appears to put herself in danger, Leslie follows her, convincing herself she is looking out for the girl. Leslie’s true motivation is unclear, which keeps the reader hooked.
Full of family issues and emotional turmoil, Inside Outside provides a satisfying read for lovers of domestic drama and suspense. Author Arcand offers a glimpse into the mind of a woman tormented by her traumatic past and the aftereffects. As her ex-husband and strangers she encounters question her sanity, and her best friend shows concern for her state of mind, Leslie’s actions lead the reader to wonder about her agenda. With one revelation after another, you won’t be able to put down the book until the final secrets are unveiled. And even then, Leslie and Selena’s story will stay with you.
September 24, 2025
The novel “Inside Outside” by Faye Arcand was a suspenseful and emotionally charged domestic drama that held my attention from start to finish.
The story begins with Leslie, the main character, battling isolation in the aftermath of her divorce. Her husband abandoned her for another woman, with whom he’d been secretly involved, and they soon conceived a child, while Leslie struggled through failed fertility treatments. Leslie finds comfort in the predictable rhythm of the world outside her window, observing the familiar faces that appear each day as she further isolates herself inside. And one day, she notices a new face, Selena, and feels an irresistible pull towards her.
Through the shifting perspectives of the book, we are introduced to Selena, and we intimately experience the turmoil of her life. Selena, a high school student, shoulders the weight of a quasi-parent, watching over her two sisters and remaining vigilant within the home to shield them from her mother’s husband, all while desperately clinging to a small semblance of a personal life.
As their lives intersect, the story offers a peek into Leslie’s past, including her cruel, religiously abusive mother, along with her entrance to the brutal world of junior high after being homeschooled and the experience of first love, and its painful consequences.
There is a unique quality to the way Leslie and Selena’s lives merge, bringing a sense of healing and family.
The author’s exploration of complex issues, coupled with the characters’ inner monologues, made the story feel true, without any gratuitous elements.
The writing was truly enjoyable; the author’s creative descriptions were so striking that I found myself pausing to admire them, as if they were works of art.
I will definitely read more from Faye Arcand!
The story begins with Leslie, the main character, battling isolation in the aftermath of her divorce. Her husband abandoned her for another woman, with whom he’d been secretly involved, and they soon conceived a child, while Leslie struggled through failed fertility treatments. Leslie finds comfort in the predictable rhythm of the world outside her window, observing the familiar faces that appear each day as she further isolates herself inside. And one day, she notices a new face, Selena, and feels an irresistible pull towards her.
Through the shifting perspectives of the book, we are introduced to Selena, and we intimately experience the turmoil of her life. Selena, a high school student, shoulders the weight of a quasi-parent, watching over her two sisters and remaining vigilant within the home to shield them from her mother’s husband, all while desperately clinging to a small semblance of a personal life.
As their lives intersect, the story offers a peek into Leslie’s past, including her cruel, religiously abusive mother, along with her entrance to the brutal world of junior high after being homeschooled and the experience of first love, and its painful consequences.
There is a unique quality to the way Leslie and Selena’s lives merge, bringing a sense of healing and family.
The author’s exploration of complex issues, coupled with the characters’ inner monologues, made the story feel true, without any gratuitous elements.
The writing was truly enjoyable; the author’s creative descriptions were so striking that I found myself pausing to admire them, as if they were works of art.
I will definitely read more from Faye Arcand!
January 3, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book, Inside Outside, is one of those slow burn, head game reads that creeps up on you quietly and then just sits heavy. It is not flashy or loud, but it stays tense and uneasy the whole way through. The story digs deep into mental health, fear, and old wounds that never healed right, and it does not pull punches about any of it.
You have two women from very different walks of life, but both are trapped in their own ways. Leslie looks like she has it all together on the outside with a good job, a nice home, and a picture perfect life. Once the truth cracks that shell, she starts coming undone in ways that feel uncomfortable and sad. Her choices are not always smart, and sometimes they make you shake your head.
Then there is Selena, young and worn down, carrying more weight than someone her age ever should. She is dealing with a new school, a broken down home full of secrets, and the responsibility of protecting her younger sisters. She feels boxed in by life and obligation, and that pressure shows in everything she does.
The dual point of view works well here. You get inside both of their heads, seeing how they think and justify their actions, and that is where the real tension comes from. Lines get crossed, boundaries blur, and what starts as concern slowly turns into obsession. This is not a big action story. It is about pressure, desperation, and the stories people tell themselves just to keep going.
Some parts move slow, and a few decisions will make you want to fuss at the pages, but the emotional weight and realism keep you locked in.
Overall, Inside Outside is a powerful psychological suspense that sticks with you after you are done. It is dark, thoughtful, and uncomfortable in a way that feels honest.
I give it a 3 outta 5 Catfish!
This book, Inside Outside, is one of those slow burn, head game reads that creeps up on you quietly and then just sits heavy. It is not flashy or loud, but it stays tense and uneasy the whole way through. The story digs deep into mental health, fear, and old wounds that never healed right, and it does not pull punches about any of it.
You have two women from very different walks of life, but both are trapped in their own ways. Leslie looks like she has it all together on the outside with a good job, a nice home, and a picture perfect life. Once the truth cracks that shell, she starts coming undone in ways that feel uncomfortable and sad. Her choices are not always smart, and sometimes they make you shake your head.
Then there is Selena, young and worn down, carrying more weight than someone her age ever should. She is dealing with a new school, a broken down home full of secrets, and the responsibility of protecting her younger sisters. She feels boxed in by life and obligation, and that pressure shows in everything she does.
The dual point of view works well here. You get inside both of their heads, seeing how they think and justify their actions, and that is where the real tension comes from. Lines get crossed, boundaries blur, and what starts as concern slowly turns into obsession. This is not a big action story. It is about pressure, desperation, and the stories people tell themselves just to keep going.
Some parts move slow, and a few decisions will make you want to fuss at the pages, but the emotional weight and realism keep you locked in.
Overall, Inside Outside is a powerful psychological suspense that sticks with you after you are done. It is dark, thoughtful, and uncomfortable in a way that feels honest.
I give it a 3 outta 5 Catfish!
August 18, 2025
Inside Outside isn’t my usual read — not really my jam — but I picked it up on a recommendation, and I’m glad I did. I enjoyed it much more than I expected, and I think readers who gravitate toward this genre will love it even more.
The writing is strong, and the character development really stood out. I found myself truly caring about Selena, and Lesley was a wonderfully complex character too. The author did a great job of weaving together the two women’s stories. Even though I had a sense that their paths would merge, the way the story was crafted kept me engaged the whole time.
The book is suspenseful, full of detail, and packed with tense moments that pulled me in. And the ending was very satisfying.
All in all, Inside Outside surprised me in the best way. Even if it’s not your usual genre, like me, you may still find yourself hooked. And if it is your genre, then this book is a must-read.
The writing is strong, and the character development really stood out. I found myself truly caring about Selena, and Lesley was a wonderfully complex character too. The author did a great job of weaving together the two women’s stories. Even though I had a sense that their paths would merge, the way the story was crafted kept me engaged the whole time.
The book is suspenseful, full of detail, and packed with tense moments that pulled me in. And the ending was very satisfying.
All in all, Inside Outside surprised me in the best way. Even if it’s not your usual genre, like me, you may still find yourself hooked. And if it is your genre, then this book is a must-read.
September 1, 2025
Wow! What a powerful novel.
After a horrific upbringing and betrayal by her husband, Leslie is suffering from mental illness. Her writing career comes to a standstill, and she spends her days watching people from her window, going about their lives.
Selena, is a 17 year old school girl, who is working part time, as well as making sure that her two younger sisters are safe. One morning, she misses her school bus, and hitches a ride in a van.
Leslie worries about her, and so decides to make sure that she stays safe by becoming a part of her life.
I find that the best books are chosen by their cover and title; how true that was in this case. It was a really moving read. I was hooked from the first page. Full of twists and turns, I thought that I had worked out the ending, only to find that a big twist towards the end made it not quite how I had predicted.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for letting me read a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
After a horrific upbringing and betrayal by her husband, Leslie is suffering from mental illness. Her writing career comes to a standstill, and she spends her days watching people from her window, going about their lives.
Selena, is a 17 year old school girl, who is working part time, as well as making sure that her two younger sisters are safe. One morning, she misses her school bus, and hitches a ride in a van.
Leslie worries about her, and so decides to make sure that she stays safe by becoming a part of her life.
I find that the best books are chosen by their cover and title; how true that was in this case. It was a really moving read. I was hooked from the first page. Full of twists and turns, I thought that I had worked out the ending, only to find that a big twist towards the end made it not quite how I had predicted.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for letting me read a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
July 2, 2025
A Tense, Relatable Domestic Thriller
Inside Outside was such an engaging read, and a refreshing change from my usual action and crime thrillers. I really enjoyed getting to know Leslie. She felt like such a real, relatable character. Even when I didn’t always agree with her choices, I could completely understand what drove her and how she was feeling.
Selena’s struggle to step into a motherly role for her sisters, while dealing with her own mother’s refusal to see what was happening, was both heartbreaking and frustrating in all the best, well-crafted ways.
The writing is solid throughout, and there are moments so tense and emotional that I was still thinking about these characters long after I turned the last page.
A moving, thought-provoking story that will stick with you.
Inside Outside was such an engaging read, and a refreshing change from my usual action and crime thrillers. I really enjoyed getting to know Leslie. She felt like such a real, relatable character. Even when I didn’t always agree with her choices, I could completely understand what drove her and how she was feeling.
Selena’s struggle to step into a motherly role for her sisters, while dealing with her own mother’s refusal to see what was happening, was both heartbreaking and frustrating in all the best, well-crafted ways.
The writing is solid throughout, and there are moments so tense and emotional that I was still thinking about these characters long after I turned the last page.
A moving, thought-provoking story that will stick with you.
December 30, 2024
Inside Outside is an engaging adventure following the lives of two very different, well-rounded, real-life characters. I was immediately drawn in and attached to them, eagerly anticipating what would happen next, reading this book in just one sitting. If you love character-driven, emotional, twisty stories, you will love this one. I can't wait to read Faye Arcand's next one!
December 21, 2024
This is a book with memorable characters. Both Leslie and Selena are well drawn and I was invested in their stories, and wished them well throughout the entire book. There are a lot of twists and turns making for a quick read. Great debut!
October 26, 2025
Inside, Outside is a novel which may appeal to adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, a poor childhood or adandonment issues. I liked the story with its many twist and turns in the plot that I didn't see coming. Well done! The end was satisfying.
July 24, 2025
***Posted on Behalf of***Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In Faye Arcand's Inside Outside, Leslie retreats into herself and starts harmful habits after her husband leaves her for another woman. The deepest betrayal for Leslie was when her husband caused this woman to become pregnant while she and her husband were in the midst of fertility treatments. Leslie sits by her front window, observing strangers to get through her days. Leslie’s attention was caught by Selena when she missed her bus to school and got into a van instead. Selena lives with her mother and two younger sisters, whom she cares for deeply. Selena's mother's boyfriend misbehaved toward her sisters, so she reported it to the school nurse. Feeling the urge to protect Selena, Leslie ensured their paths would cross. Leslie and Selena formed a friendship, and, when Selena needed a place to stay, Leslie eagerly offered her a home.
Inside Outside by Faye Arcand was a powerful and moving read. The pace was fast, and the suspense kept me captivated throughout. With all the unexpected twists, I was never sure what would happen next. I found it impossible to put the book down and eagerly flipped through the pages. The writing style was compelling, and I was completely engrossed from beginning to end. The chapters shifted between Leslie and Selena, allowing me to learn more about them. This gave me a deeper insight into the decisions they both made and helped me empathize with them. The writing was engaging and included everything necessary for a fantastic story that would linger with me for a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and it far surpassed my expectations.
In Faye Arcand's Inside Outside, Leslie retreats into herself and starts harmful habits after her husband leaves her for another woman. The deepest betrayal for Leslie was when her husband caused this woman to become pregnant while she and her husband were in the midst of fertility treatments. Leslie sits by her front window, observing strangers to get through her days. Leslie’s attention was caught by Selena when she missed her bus to school and got into a van instead. Selena lives with her mother and two younger sisters, whom she cares for deeply. Selena's mother's boyfriend misbehaved toward her sisters, so she reported it to the school nurse. Feeling the urge to protect Selena, Leslie ensured their paths would cross. Leslie and Selena formed a friendship, and, when Selena needed a place to stay, Leslie eagerly offered her a home.
Inside Outside by Faye Arcand was a powerful and moving read. The pace was fast, and the suspense kept me captivated throughout. With all the unexpected twists, I was never sure what would happen next. I found it impossible to put the book down and eagerly flipped through the pages. The writing style was compelling, and I was completely engrossed from beginning to end. The chapters shifted between Leslie and Selena, allowing me to learn more about them. This gave me a deeper insight into the decisions they both made and helped me empathize with them. The writing was engaging and included everything necessary for a fantastic story that would linger with me for a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and it far surpassed my expectations.
December 7, 2025
This book sucked me right in! I was so caught up in the lives of Leslie and Selena and had trouble putting the book down. The details made them feel so real and I had to know what happened next. I am excited to read more from Faye Arcand!
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