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The Outsider
A passionate affair. A marriage in crisis. A painful family secret.
Megan’s marriage is hanging on a knife-edge. The remote Welsh farm she loved so much when she and Noah were newlyweds has become a millstone around their necks. After thirteen years, Megan still feels like an outsider. People round here look at her strangely. They make it clear she doesn’t belong.
It's not only lack of money that’s threatening Megan’s relationship. After three failed rounds of IVF, her longing for a child is all-consuming.
It’s then she meets Gethin, an intense, complicated young man almost twenty years her junior.
Against her better judgement, Megan embarks on a passionate affair. But this unhappy farmer’s wife is unleashing forces she cannot control.
Because there are secrets in her husband’s family. Unwittingly, Megan has unleashed long-buried tensions that lurk within this isolated, fiercely proud community. The dark past is about to come to light. And there’s far more than Megan’s marriage at stake . . .
Megan’s marriage is hanging on a knife-edge. The remote Welsh farm she loved so much when she and Noah were newlyweds has become a millstone around their necks. After thirteen years, Megan still feels like an outsider. People round here look at her strangely. They make it clear she doesn’t belong.
It's not only lack of money that’s threatening Megan’s relationship. After three failed rounds of IVF, her longing for a child is all-consuming.
It’s then she meets Gethin, an intense, complicated young man almost twenty years her junior.
Against her better judgement, Megan embarks on a passionate affair. But this unhappy farmer’s wife is unleashing forces she cannot control.
Because there are secrets in her husband’s family. Unwittingly, Megan has unleashed long-buried tensions that lurk within this isolated, fiercely proud community. The dark past is about to come to light. And there’s far more than Megan’s marriage at stake . . .
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2025
37 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 16, 2025
There's a lot that happens in this one so I did find myself disappearing into it and not wanting to put it down.
Noah initially seems like a tough character to get along with but there's a sadness to him and the events around him, targeted at him, make it all the more tragic. I initially thought I'd be siding with Megan as she struggles with feeling like an outsider but ultimately it seems like she brings it on herself. There were some redeeming qualities in her dealings with Imogen but ultimately she is a character I grew to dislike. I think it's wholly personal in terms of the values I have and this book does challenge those values. Family is the most important thing to me but there's a lot here that makes you question whether Noah's family are not all that great or supportive.
A tough read at times and sad but also incredibly interesting.
Noah initially seems like a tough character to get along with but there's a sadness to him and the events around him, targeted at him, make it all the more tragic. I initially thought I'd be siding with Megan as she struggles with feeling like an outsider but ultimately it seems like she brings it on herself. There were some redeeming qualities in her dealings with Imogen but ultimately she is a character I grew to dislike. I think it's wholly personal in terms of the values I have and this book does challenge those values. Family is the most important thing to me but there's a lot here that makes you question whether Noah's family are not all that great or supportive.
A tough read at times and sad but also incredibly interesting.
February 19, 2025
The Outsider by C R Howell
A passionate affair. A marriage in crisis. A painful family secret.
Megan's marriage is hanging by a thread. The remote Welsh farm she once cherished when she and Noah were newlyweds has become more of a burden to her.
It's not just a lack of money that threatens Megan's relationship. After three unsuccessful rounds of IVF, her desire for a child has become all-consuming.
Then she meets Gethin, an intense and complicated young man nearly twenty years her junior.
Against her better judgment, Megan begins a passionate affair. However, this unhappy farmer's wife is unleashing forces she cannot control.
There are secrets within her husband's family. Unwittingly, Megan has unearthed long-buried tensions in this isolated, fiercely proud community. The dark past is about to resurface, and much more than Megan's marriage is at stake . . .
Another unputdownable atmospheric domestic thriller comes from the author of The Woman in My Home.
The Outsider is an appealing story of love, hope, betrayal, agonizing emotion and dark family secrets.
The three main characters, Megan, Noah, and Gethin, are realistic and engaging in their own right, and they are very cleverly written.
Together, they create a complex love triangle filled with passion and intrigue. Add a deep, dark, painful secret, and you have the perfect plot.
From page one of the story, the tension noticeably increases with every turn of the page.
I am happy to recommend it.
I want to thank publishers Joffe Books psychological thrillers, suspense and crime, author C R Howell and Zooloos Book Tours for providing a copy for me to read and review.
A passionate affair. A marriage in crisis. A painful family secret.
Megan's marriage is hanging by a thread. The remote Welsh farm she once cherished when she and Noah were newlyweds has become more of a burden to her.
It's not just a lack of money that threatens Megan's relationship. After three unsuccessful rounds of IVF, her desire for a child has become all-consuming.
Then she meets Gethin, an intense and complicated young man nearly twenty years her junior.
Against her better judgment, Megan begins a passionate affair. However, this unhappy farmer's wife is unleashing forces she cannot control.
There are secrets within her husband's family. Unwittingly, Megan has unearthed long-buried tensions in this isolated, fiercely proud community. The dark past is about to resurface, and much more than Megan's marriage is at stake . . .
Another unputdownable atmospheric domestic thriller comes from the author of The Woman in My Home.
The Outsider is an appealing story of love, hope, betrayal, agonizing emotion and dark family secrets.
The three main characters, Megan, Noah, and Gethin, are realistic and engaging in their own right, and they are very cleverly written.
Together, they create a complex love triangle filled with passion and intrigue. Add a deep, dark, painful secret, and you have the perfect plot.
From page one of the story, the tension noticeably increases with every turn of the page.
I am happy to recommend it.
I want to thank publishers Joffe Books psychological thrillers, suspense and crime, author C R Howell and Zooloos Book Tours for providing a copy for me to read and review.
February 17, 2025
The outsider by @crhowellwriter
4⭐️
Howell masterfully portrays the emotional turmoil of a disintegrating relationship through alternating perspectives, allowing readers to intimately experience the inner conflicts of both Megan and Noah. The vivid depiction of the relentless demands of farm life with the raw beauty of the Welsh landscape adds depth to the narrative, immersing readers in the setting’s authenticity. Themes of mental health, the weight of unfulfilled desires, and the intricate dynamics of small-town life are explored with nuance and sensitivity.
The Outsider is a thought-provoking and intense exploration of personal and communal identities, the fragility of relationships, and the enduring impact of hidden truths. Howell’s eloquent prose and intricate storytelling make this novel a memorable and impactful read.
Thank you to @zooloosbooktours and the author for letting me review this book.
4⭐️
Howell masterfully portrays the emotional turmoil of a disintegrating relationship through alternating perspectives, allowing readers to intimately experience the inner conflicts of both Megan and Noah. The vivid depiction of the relentless demands of farm life with the raw beauty of the Welsh landscape adds depth to the narrative, immersing readers in the setting’s authenticity. Themes of mental health, the weight of unfulfilled desires, and the intricate dynamics of small-town life are explored with nuance and sensitivity.
The Outsider is a thought-provoking and intense exploration of personal and communal identities, the fragility of relationships, and the enduring impact of hidden truths. Howell’s eloquent prose and intricate storytelling make this novel a memorable and impactful read.
Thank you to @zooloosbooktours and the author for letting me review this book.
February 15, 2025
Howell is a new to me author and The Outsider a fantastic introduction to their writing style.
I didn't read the blurb and went into the book blind, having no idea what awaited me. It didn't disappoint. It's a dark domestic thriller that had me hooked from the opening chapters and held me captive till the end.
Omnipresent feelings of isolation and loneliness pervade as Megan feels unaccepted into the community.
Whilst I couldn't take to any of the characters, they are deep and well written.
Shrouded in suspense with an air of mystery and some clever twists.
An enjoyable and engaging read.
I didn't read the blurb and went into the book blind, having no idea what awaited me. It didn't disappoint. It's a dark domestic thriller that had me hooked from the opening chapters and held me captive till the end.
Omnipresent feelings of isolation and loneliness pervade as Megan feels unaccepted into the community.
Whilst I couldn't take to any of the characters, they are deep and well written.
Shrouded in suspense with an air of mystery and some clever twists.
An enjoyable and engaging read.
February 16, 2025
This is just wow! I loved the atmospheric story plot. The place it’s set in sounds like my kinda of place, a remote location in North wales. I found this so addictive, every page I turned the more curious I became. The author is a phenomenal writer, the perfect location for a dark, gritty story of a complicated family. There is drama, secrets, tragedy’s that shouldn’t be overlooked.
I cannot wait to read more of this author, the perfect storyteller.
I cannot wait to read more of this author, the perfect storyteller.
February 19, 2025
The Outsider by C.R Howell.
This was a good read. A little slow in places. I did like the cover. I wasn't sure how I felt about the characters. I didn't like them, but I didn't hate them either.
This was a good read. A little slow in places. I did like the cover. I wasn't sure how I felt about the characters. I didn't like them, but I didn't hate them either.
March 16, 2025
This was my first read by this author and so I wasn't really sure what to expect.
Given that I hate to read blurbs beforehand and the cover didn't really give too much away, I really did go in blind.
The thing that drew me into this book though, was the front cover.
Living down South now, I don't often see many hills where we are and this cover just reminded me of the lush landscape of Yorkshire, where we used to visit often.
In fact, this story was set in the glorious countryside of Wales and this fitted perfectly with Noah and Megan's story.
Megan has always felt like an outsider on the farm and this is exacerbated by the insular community they live among.
With money tight, the family they wished for, not happening and a controlling father-in-law, Megan escapes by starting an affair with a younger man.
There was a lot going on here but the storyline flowed well and held my interest throughout.
The tension builds as more things come to light from the past and strange things start to happen in the present.
Obviously at first, I really felt quite sorry for Megan and her situation - but I really hate cheating, so I then couldn't decide whether to overlook some of her decisions or just keep thinking that she brought things on herself.
The writing style really drew me in and transported me right there with some great descriptive writing.
I loved that it kept me wondering throughout and had me racing through the pages.
A great first read and I'm sure that I'll be reading more by Thai author in the near future.
Given that I hate to read blurbs beforehand and the cover didn't really give too much away, I really did go in blind.
The thing that drew me into this book though, was the front cover.
Living down South now, I don't often see many hills where we are and this cover just reminded me of the lush landscape of Yorkshire, where we used to visit often.
In fact, this story was set in the glorious countryside of Wales and this fitted perfectly with Noah and Megan's story.
Megan has always felt like an outsider on the farm and this is exacerbated by the insular community they live among.
With money tight, the family they wished for, not happening and a controlling father-in-law, Megan escapes by starting an affair with a younger man.
There was a lot going on here but the storyline flowed well and held my interest throughout.
The tension builds as more things come to light from the past and strange things start to happen in the present.
Obviously at first, I really felt quite sorry for Megan and her situation - but I really hate cheating, so I then couldn't decide whether to overlook some of her decisions or just keep thinking that she brought things on herself.
The writing style really drew me in and transported me right there with some great descriptive writing.
I loved that it kept me wondering throughout and had me racing through the pages.
A great first read and I'm sure that I'll be reading more by Thai author in the near future.
February 13, 2025
The Outsider by C.R. Howell is a beautifully written and emotionally complex novel that explores themes of identity, family, and the weight of secrets. Set in the stunning Welsh countryside, the story revolves around Noah and Megan, whose marriage has been strained by years of financial struggles, the emotional toll of failed IVF attempts, and a sense of disconnect within their rural community.
Megan, despite being born in Wales, has always felt like an outsider in the tight-knit village, struggling with her inability to master the Welsh language. Her longing for a sense of purpose leads her to take a Welsh language course, where she meets Gethin, a younger man with whom she embarks on a passionate affair. This affair not only threatens Megan’s already fragile marriage but also sets off a chain of events that unearth long-buried family tensions and secrets, particularly within Noah’s family.
Noah has poured his heart and soul into making the farm successful, but his commitment is severely tested when he wakes one morning to find a number of his lambs have been slaughtered in the field overnight, an act that almost shatters him emotionally and pushes him to the brink of despair.
The dynamics between Noah, Megan, and his family—including Noah’s sister, Imogen, who lives with schizophrenia—are explored with remarkable sensitivity. Imogen’s struggles with mental health add another layer of complexity to the family’s already fraught relationships, highlighting Howell's compassionate approach to such themes. The novel also touches on broader societal issues, including the clash between preserving local culture and the pressures of tourism.
Howell's descriptions of the Welsh countryside are vivid and evocative, adding an almost atmospheric quality to the story. The pacing, while steady, builds towards a gripping conclusion as secrets come to light, and relationships are tested to their breaking point.
The Outsider is a compelling and thought-provoking read that expertly blends personal drama with larger cultural themes. Howell’s empathetic portrayal of the characters, particularly Megan, Noah, and Imogen, ensures the emotional core of the novel resonates deeply. Though the pacing could have been tighter, the rich setting and complex family dynamics make this a rewarding read. Fans of character-driven stories with emotional depth will find much to appreciate in this evocative and emotionally charged novel.
Megan, despite being born in Wales, has always felt like an outsider in the tight-knit village, struggling with her inability to master the Welsh language. Her longing for a sense of purpose leads her to take a Welsh language course, where she meets Gethin, a younger man with whom she embarks on a passionate affair. This affair not only threatens Megan’s already fragile marriage but also sets off a chain of events that unearth long-buried family tensions and secrets, particularly within Noah’s family.
Noah has poured his heart and soul into making the farm successful, but his commitment is severely tested when he wakes one morning to find a number of his lambs have been slaughtered in the field overnight, an act that almost shatters him emotionally and pushes him to the brink of despair.
The dynamics between Noah, Megan, and his family—including Noah’s sister, Imogen, who lives with schizophrenia—are explored with remarkable sensitivity. Imogen’s struggles with mental health add another layer of complexity to the family’s already fraught relationships, highlighting Howell's compassionate approach to such themes. The novel also touches on broader societal issues, including the clash between preserving local culture and the pressures of tourism.
Howell's descriptions of the Welsh countryside are vivid and evocative, adding an almost atmospheric quality to the story. The pacing, while steady, builds towards a gripping conclusion as secrets come to light, and relationships are tested to their breaking point.
The Outsider is a compelling and thought-provoking read that expertly blends personal drama with larger cultural themes. Howell’s empathetic portrayal of the characters, particularly Megan, Noah, and Imogen, ensures the emotional core of the novel resonates deeply. Though the pacing could have been tighter, the rich setting and complex family dynamics make this a rewarding read. Fans of character-driven stories with emotional depth will find much to appreciate in this evocative and emotionally charged novel.
February 15, 2025
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Zooloo's Book Tours.
This is a gripping domestic thriller set in Wales. Megan and her husband Noah own a sheep farm. After thirteen years of living in the area, Megan still feels as though she isn't fully accepted. Megan decides to attend a Welsh class, and finds herself feeling drawn to the teacher, Gethin.
There were some elements of the storyline that I found a little bit distressing, particularly at the start, but they were brief. The author wrote in a way that made me want to know more about the characters, and I was interested in them. After a few chapters, I was quite invested, and found myself turning the pages quickly. I think that Gethin was actually the character that I felt the strongest connection with.
As I carried on reading, I found there was something specific about the book that made an impression on me. I often enjoy books with rural or village settings, because they have a cosy quality that I find comforting. In this case, I felt differently about the setting. It added to my uncertainty and unease; in fact, it seemed sinister. There was something different about the atmosphere in that rural setting, it was suspenseful and nail-biting.
I found this quite easy to read in one sitting, and I would probably read something else by this author too.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, Joffe Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is a gripping domestic thriller set in Wales. Megan and her husband Noah own a sheep farm. After thirteen years of living in the area, Megan still feels as though she isn't fully accepted. Megan decides to attend a Welsh class, and finds herself feeling drawn to the teacher, Gethin.
There were some elements of the storyline that I found a little bit distressing, particularly at the start, but they were brief. The author wrote in a way that made me want to know more about the characters, and I was interested in them. After a few chapters, I was quite invested, and found myself turning the pages quickly. I think that Gethin was actually the character that I felt the strongest connection with.
As I carried on reading, I found there was something specific about the book that made an impression on me. I often enjoy books with rural or village settings, because they have a cosy quality that I find comforting. In this case, I felt differently about the setting. It added to my uncertainty and unease; in fact, it seemed sinister. There was something different about the atmosphere in that rural setting, it was suspenseful and nail-biting.
I found this quite easy to read in one sitting, and I would probably read something else by this author too.
Thank you to Zooloo's Book Tours, Joffe Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
January 19, 2025
From the start, I found myself drawn into the mystery of the events and characters within this book, as it twists and turns! I’m no expert, but I feel that C.R. Howell truly captures the heart of the village in Wales where the book is set and does an excellent job including and describing the Welsh language; rebellion of local residents as their way of life is disintegrating; mental health and its challenges; and truly honest and raw character development through fertility issues, mental health, abuse, and familial disagreements.
The tensions throughout the book with character interaction is palpable at times and wills the reader to not put the book down in order to put the dots together and determine what is really happening throughout. It’s heart wrenching at times, full of love at others, and unapologetically real.
If you’re a fan of thrilling events, intrinsic storylines with well-developed characters, and reading a story that just unravels more and more as you continue to figure out the story, you will absolutely enjoy this book!
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley, as I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The tensions throughout the book with character interaction is palpable at times and wills the reader to not put the book down in order to put the dots together and determine what is really happening throughout. It’s heart wrenching at times, full of love at others, and unapologetically real.
If you’re a fan of thrilling events, intrinsic storylines with well-developed characters, and reading a story that just unravels more and more as you continue to figure out the story, you will absolutely enjoy this book!
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley, as I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 6, 2025
Compelling Read, Refreshingly Original
There is a lot happening in The Outsider, all of which is presented by C. R. Howell as a compelling story this reader found difficult to put down until finding out what happened to all the characters. This book is set in North Wales where the locals are proud to speak Cymraeg, shun “outsiders” who cannot understand the language native to Wales, and there is even an extremist movement destroying the property of outsiders who they believe are contributing to the destruction of the long-established Welsh way of life.
Megan and Noah both have ancestral ties to Wales and run a large sheep farm which had belonged to Noah’s mother, but are still considered Outsiders by the locals. Their marriage is currently on rough ground. Noah is a good farmer, but leaves all the decisions and organization to his overstressed wife in addition to her farming chores. Noah’s father, Ray, is trying to manipulate him to giving his beloved farm to his sister Imogen – who does not want it. Ray is also trying to force Megan to modernize three farm cottages and run them as holiday rentals which is upsetting the locals. Megan decides that to help preserve her own mental stability, and perhaps fit in better with the locals, she will attend a class to learn Cymraeg for a couple of hours a week.
Meanwhile twelve of Noah’s lambs are slaughtered cruelly and the parts scattered in a field. Megan has an affair with her Welsh teacher Gethin and after 13 years of IVF and trying with Noah, becomes pregnant. The holiday cottages are set on fire. Imogen goes missing. How can Megan and Noah’s marriage survive? Who would kill the lambs, and set the cottages afire? Who is the father of Megan’s baby? All the outstanding questions are answered satisfactorily, but with lots of surprises, before the end of this book. I thoroughly recommend this as an excellently written read with a refreshingly original storyline, lots of action and well developed characters.
There is a lot happening in The Outsider, all of which is presented by C. R. Howell as a compelling story this reader found difficult to put down until finding out what happened to all the characters. This book is set in North Wales where the locals are proud to speak Cymraeg, shun “outsiders” who cannot understand the language native to Wales, and there is even an extremist movement destroying the property of outsiders who they believe are contributing to the destruction of the long-established Welsh way of life.
Megan and Noah both have ancestral ties to Wales and run a large sheep farm which had belonged to Noah’s mother, but are still considered Outsiders by the locals. Their marriage is currently on rough ground. Noah is a good farmer, but leaves all the decisions and organization to his overstressed wife in addition to her farming chores. Noah’s father, Ray, is trying to manipulate him to giving his beloved farm to his sister Imogen – who does not want it. Ray is also trying to force Megan to modernize three farm cottages and run them as holiday rentals which is upsetting the locals. Megan decides that to help preserve her own mental stability, and perhaps fit in better with the locals, she will attend a class to learn Cymraeg for a couple of hours a week.
Meanwhile twelve of Noah’s lambs are slaughtered cruelly and the parts scattered in a field. Megan has an affair with her Welsh teacher Gethin and after 13 years of IVF and trying with Noah, becomes pregnant. The holiday cottages are set on fire. Imogen goes missing. How can Megan and Noah’s marriage survive? Who would kill the lambs, and set the cottages afire? Who is the father of Megan’s baby? All the outstanding questions are answered satisfactorily, but with lots of surprises, before the end of this book. I thoroughly recommend this as an excellently written read with a refreshingly original storyline, lots of action and well developed characters.
February 9, 2025
C.R. Howell’s The Outsider is a gripping, psychologically charged thriller that pulls readers in from the very first page. With a cast of morally complex characters and a plot filled with suspense, this novel keeps you questioning everything until the very end.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its dark, layered characters—each with their own secrets and hidden motives. Their unpredictability adds to the tension, making it impossible to fully trust anyone. The story unfolds with an eerie, almost haunting quality that keeps you turning pages, eager to uncover the truth.
While the novel is well-paced and compelling, the subplot involving the sister and her secrets felt like it had even more potential to be explored. It was a fascinating piece of the overall puzzle, and a deeper dive into her storyline could have added even more depth to the mystery.
That said, The Outsider still delivers a thrilling, immersive experience that will keep readers hooked until the final reveal. If you enjoy dark psychological thrillers that leave you questioning everything, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its dark, layered characters—each with their own secrets and hidden motives. Their unpredictability adds to the tension, making it impossible to fully trust anyone. The story unfolds with an eerie, almost haunting quality that keeps you turning pages, eager to uncover the truth.
While the novel is well-paced and compelling, the subplot involving the sister and her secrets felt like it had even more potential to be explored. It was a fascinating piece of the overall puzzle, and a deeper dive into her storyline could have added even more depth to the mystery.
That said, The Outsider still delivers a thrilling, immersive experience that will keep readers hooked until the final reveal. If you enjoy dark psychological thrillers that leave you questioning everything, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.
February 12, 2025
The Outsider by C.R. Howell is a gripping, well-paced psychological thriller. Megan and Noah are running a sheep farm in the north of Wales. Struggling with the failing farm and having trouble getting pregnant is putting a strain on Megan and Noah's relationship. Megan is Welsh but grew up in a different part so she does not speak the language as well. Wanting to fit in some, she starts to take a Welsh language class once a week. But when she embarks on a passionate affair, Megan stands to lose everything including her marriage.
This story was absolutely immersive. I have never been to Wales, but the way Howell describes the stunning landscape I can almost believe I am there. The dual POV between Megan and Noah showcase the inner turmoil and perceptions of their crumbling marriage. Definitely give this one a shot!
Thank you to NetGalley, C.R Howell and Joffe Books for this ARC. Expected release date is February 13th 2025.
This story was absolutely immersive. I have never been to Wales, but the way Howell describes the stunning landscape I can almost believe I am there. The dual POV between Megan and Noah showcase the inner turmoil and perceptions of their crumbling marriage. Definitely give this one a shot!
Thank you to NetGalley, C.R Howell and Joffe Books for this ARC. Expected release date is February 13th 2025.
February 13, 2025
This book was full of different emotional situations, talking about topics like mental health struggles, infertility and failed IVF, affairs and family fall outs which make you feel for the characters.
There is also the fact that Megan and Noah are looked at as outsiders by the Welsh people where they live. I totally understand what Megan feels. I was born and raised in Cardiff, South Wales and I don't speak Welsh. I only know a few words. When I say I'm Welsh I feel like a fraud because I can't speak the language, and will often say I'm British on forms etc because I don't feel very Welsh!
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the lamb slaughter. Lambs are one of my favourite animals and after reading this part I almost gave up reading, because I felt like I was there seeing it with the descriptions 😭
But I decided to carry on and I am glad I did, because the other situations with Megan and Imogen drew me in, so I needed to find out what happened next.
There is also the fact that Megan and Noah are looked at as outsiders by the Welsh people where they live. I totally understand what Megan feels. I was born and raised in Cardiff, South Wales and I don't speak Welsh. I only know a few words. When I say I'm Welsh I feel like a fraud because I can't speak the language, and will often say I'm British on forms etc because I don't feel very Welsh!
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the lamb slaughter. Lambs are one of my favourite animals and after reading this part I almost gave up reading, because I felt like I was there seeing it with the descriptions 😭
But I decided to carry on and I am glad I did, because the other situations with Megan and Imogen drew me in, so I needed to find out what happened next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2025
An atmospheric book with beautiful descriptions of North Wales that made me want to go and see it for myself.
Megan and Noah are determined to make a success of their farm, but one obstacle leads to another, the biggest one being Noah's father.
I enjoyed this book and the story touched on the issues of Welsh heritage and mental health problems. I'd have liked for both of these matters to be given more prominence to add extra depth to the story.
I was rooting for both Megan and Noah, with Noah being the character with the most depth, but I did question some of Megan's decisions as they didn't correlate with her feelings and opinions.
The conclusion was tied up neatly with few loose ends.
Overall an enjoyable read and my thanks go to Joffe book for the ARC. This is an honest, voluntary review.
Megan and Noah are determined to make a success of their farm, but one obstacle leads to another, the biggest one being Noah's father.
I enjoyed this book and the story touched on the issues of Welsh heritage and mental health problems. I'd have liked for both of these matters to be given more prominence to add extra depth to the story.
I was rooting for both Megan and Noah, with Noah being the character with the most depth, but I did question some of Megan's decisions as they didn't correlate with her feelings and opinions.
The conclusion was tied up neatly with few loose ends.
Overall an enjoyable read and my thanks go to Joffe book for the ARC. This is an honest, voluntary review.
February 6, 2025
3 stars
Expected publication - February 13, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and Joffe Books, for this eARC for review. All opinions are my own.
Noah and Megan are running the farm of Noah's mother's dreams. Already struggling with failed IVF attempts, now it seems people from town are against them. Noah's sister Imogen has been in and out of mental health care and does not seem to have a full grasp of reality. Then their father decides its best to have Imogen and her husband run the farm, sending Noah and Megan to town to take care of cabins he wants to rent to people on holiday, much to the disgust of locals. Nothing goes well for any of them....
I liked this book a lot, but I didn't love it. I did love the setting, and all in all, it was an enjoyable, quick read.
Expected publication - February 13, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and Joffe Books, for this eARC for review. All opinions are my own.
Noah and Megan are running the farm of Noah's mother's dreams. Already struggling with failed IVF attempts, now it seems people from town are against them. Noah's sister Imogen has been in and out of mental health care and does not seem to have a full grasp of reality. Then their father decides its best to have Imogen and her husband run the farm, sending Noah and Megan to town to take care of cabins he wants to rent to people on holiday, much to the disgust of locals. Nothing goes well for any of them....
I liked this book a lot, but I didn't love it. I did love the setting, and all in all, it was an enjoyable, quick read.
February 5, 2025
The start of the book drew me in and held my attention with it's raw, honest description of fertility issues and mental health. It was a mysterious plot that unraveled bit by bit as you read and sometimes left you with questions that don't get answered until the end. I congratulate the author on taking on the mental health disorder of schizophrenia which can be a hard and frustrating one to understand. While I didn't like all the characters each and every one is well developed. The plot had me struggling for air because it has so much complexity it's hard to wrap your head around. It isn't a light and fluffy read but it is a complicated, exciting mystery which is brilliantly written!
February 7, 2025
The story of Noah & Megan farming in North Wales under difficult circumstances.
His distanced & controlling father who owns the farm & 3 holiday cottages near them but has never lived there announces they have to leave & manage the cottages while Noahs sister who is schizophrenic and her husband will take over the farm now that Noah has begun to turn their fortune around. Amidst all this emotional upheaval Megan starts an affair with a man half her age whom her husband sacked 13 years earlier. Noah finds a field of his lambs have been slaughtered overnight and descends into depression while his whole life starts to disintegrate around him.
It's a turbulent time for the family , dark secrets start to come to light from the past, his sister dies in an arson attack , while his father relentlessly continues to bully him into handing over the farm he's worked most of his life .
I couldn't out this book down despite the feelings it roused in me, I had to keep reading.
Thank you Joffes Arc for introducing me to this author .
His distanced & controlling father who owns the farm & 3 holiday cottages near them but has never lived there announces they have to leave & manage the cottages while Noahs sister who is schizophrenic and her husband will take over the farm now that Noah has begun to turn their fortune around. Amidst all this emotional upheaval Megan starts an affair with a man half her age whom her husband sacked 13 years earlier. Noah finds a field of his lambs have been slaughtered overnight and descends into depression while his whole life starts to disintegrate around him.
It's a turbulent time for the family , dark secrets start to come to light from the past, his sister dies in an arson attack , while his father relentlessly continues to bully him into handing over the farm he's worked most of his life .
I couldn't out this book down despite the feelings it roused in me, I had to keep reading.
Thank you Joffes Arc for introducing me to this author .
February 14, 2025
I found this to be a well written and striking novel, with interesting characters and a story of their interactions, set in rural Wales where there is a perception of non-locals remaining ‘outsiders’ however long they have lived and worked there.
It dealt sensitively with issues centring on mental health problems amongst an interplay of marital and difficult family relationships.
However, whilst I consider it to be a good and challenging read, I must confess that I did not enjoy the book.
It dealt sensitively with issues centring on mental health problems amongst an interplay of marital and difficult family relationships.
However, whilst I consider it to be a good and challenging read, I must confess that I did not enjoy the book.
February 3, 2025
*The Outsider* by C.R. Howell is an average read that blends mystery and suspense. The story takes its time unfolding. While the first part of the book lays important groundwork, it isn’t until about 75% in that the pace truly picks up, delivering a satisfying ending.
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.**
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.**
February 7, 2025
Dark, depressing and compelling, The Outsider is the story of a failing farm and family. Noah and Megan have struggled to run the family sheep farm in the north of Wales for years. They are unable to have children, children who might have made them closer. Instead, Noah has pulled away from Megan and the two spend most of their time together in senseless arguments. Then Megan decides to spend a morning a week learning Welsh, a language she only speaks hesitantly. This choice will leads to disaster. Life changing secrets, both old and new, are revealed.
This novel is beautifully written and evocative. Descriptions of the constant chores of farmwork are lessened by the birth of lambs. Alternating viewpoints show the inner sadness and confusion of a failing marriage. The Outsider, by C.R. Howell, is full of pain but impossible to put down. It will stay with you long after you read the final page. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books and C.R. Howell for this ARC.
This novel is beautifully written and evocative. Descriptions of the constant chores of farmwork are lessened by the birth of lambs. Alternating viewpoints show the inner sadness and confusion of a failing marriage. The Outsider, by C.R. Howell, is full of pain but impossible to put down. It will stay with you long after you read the final page. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Joffe Books and C.R. Howell for this ARC.
February 27, 2025
Enthralling story set in North Wales. Megan and Noel are living on a sheep farm, she’s Welsh and he’s English. This book deals with issues like; Welsh Nationalism, infertility, adultery, mental health problems and family secrets. There are lots of twists which keeps up the suspense and anticipation. Great characters.
August 5, 2025
Hot and suspenseful. Loved it from start to finish. Will recommend to others.
September 4, 2025
I loved all the characters! Especially Imogen! So brilliantly written! A good read.
February 12, 2025
A great domestic suspense thriller. Great twists that pull you in from the start. I never seen the ending coming. Great story!
February 1, 2025
Set on a remote sheep farm in Wales with all its problems of loneliness and lack of profit in the industry. Even after 13 years living on the farm, Megan still feels like an outsider. Her husband Noah, as an Englisman and having lived on the farm for most of his life, accepts that he is and always will be an outsider. Megan, however, yearns to be accepted and joins a Welsh language class. Their marriage is under great stress after several failed rounds of IFV treatments she is still childless . Noah is depressed with the farm that he loves and the failed IVF and both are vulnerable. That's when Megan meets Gethin, the tutor, and they embark on a passionate affair.
The dark past of Noahs family is slowly revealed and a complicated web of lies and develops as both Noah and Megan try to cover up their secrets past and present. All this is made more complicated by a local resurgence of Welsh Nationalism. Tragedy, passion, anger, and lies abound, but also tenderness and the love and friendliness of the majority of Welsh people shine through. A great read with a few unexpected twists and a grand reveal.
The dark past of Noahs family is slowly revealed and a complicated web of lies and develops as both Noah and Megan try to cover up their secrets past and present. All this is made more complicated by a local resurgence of Welsh Nationalism. Tragedy, passion, anger, and lies abound, but also tenderness and the love and friendliness of the majority of Welsh people shine through. A great read with a few unexpected twists and a grand reveal.
February 6, 2025
A good read. Even within the first 4 chapters, I couldn't help but empathise with the pressures faced by the two main characters. Noah and Megan. I was really impressed by the depth of character. The storyline built up nicely throughout. A closeup of a marriage on the line with plenty of drama. I enjoyed this book.
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