Outside Girl

by Chiara Kelly

When Celia Lee escapes a high demand religious group she grew up in, she must make some hard choices. Battling decades of inner conflict, she leaves her arranged marriage and grown children behind in South Korea, fleeing to Martha’s Vineyard on a midlife backpacking journey to find her authentic self. As her choice is ridiculed by all she knows, Celia is on her own, until she meets Conor, a troubled young man who joins her on her journey. As Celia and Conor confront their complicated pasts, they care for one another as they seek their truths. But how do you come out of what is in you?

Kindle Edition

First published November 25, 2025

About the author

Chiara Kelly is an American freelance writer and editor currently living in Seoul, Korea with her husband and three sons. Her debut novel, "The Lady Leathernecks" is based in part on her service in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2001-2005. She is a graduate of Campbell University and Boston University. Her genre of interest involves contemporary women's fiction with a military twist and some added Korean spice.

Reviews

[Chiara Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this story is fiction, it artfully encapsulates the complexities of growing up in a cult, as well as in a dysfunctional family dynamic. The main character, Celia, also addresses the challenges inherent in trying to leave the only faith community you have ever known, as well as the psychological hold that often keeps people stuck in situations they know are not right for them, but at the same time, sustains them. Celia, however, was able to grow and heal herself thanks to her interactions with other characters who befriend her on Martha's Vineyard. As someone who personally experienced growing up in a high-demand religious group, I find this story a validating tale of healing, growth, and starting over.

[Anita Walton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative novel about the moonie church in Korea. I had never heard of it.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting novel about a woman's struggles in the Moonies/Unification church. Although I had heard of this cult like church before, I did not know much about them.