Outside

by Charlotte Levin, Alexandra Boulton (Narrator)

The poignant and darkly humorous long-awaited new novel from the bestselling author of If I Can’t Have You, perfect for fans of Sorrow and Bliss and Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.

She’s locked the door to the world. Is love strong enough to open it?

Following a tragic incident, rising-star Beatrice is struggling. Having retreated from life entirely, she finds herself unable to leave the house. With her acting career now over, (Though don’t tell her agent), and discovering who her real friends aren’t, her world has shrunk—its only inhabitants, an elderly Polish neighbour, the world’s most boring postman, her therapist with issues of her own, and Piano Bitch from across the road. Thank God for Matisse, her beloved, foul-mouthed parakeet.

Genres: Contemporary, Fiction, Romance, Mental Health

Audible Audio

Expected publication August 6, 2026

About the author

Charlotte Levin is the bestselling author of IF I CAN'T HAVE YOU and the Richard & Judy Book Club pick IF I LET YOU GO.

New novel, OUTSIDE - out August 6th 2026

She writes emotional yet darkly humorous character-led novels that centre on the morally grey, the outsiders, and those who could probably do with some therapy.

She has been shortlisted for the Andrea Badenoch Award, part of the New Writers North Awards, and the Mslexia Short Story Competition, as well as writing for publications, including The Observer and Marie Claire.

She lives in Manchester, England, with her cats Opal Moon, Leonard and Walter.

Her third novel OUTSIDE will be published in August 2026

website - www.charlottelevin.com

Reviews

[Ceri · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars ⭐

Outside follows Beatrice, a burgeoning actress who suffers from agoraphobia.

As someone who, like Beatrice, suffers from anxiety, this book shows incredibly well how anxiety disorders can gradually ruin your own life without you even noticing. And also, how anxiety makes you selfish. It makes you turn inward because your nervous system demands you have to place your own survival above all else. All rationality goes out the window. It’s something that can’t really be explained or understood unless you’ve experienced it, but this book does such an amazing job at getting you to empathise with Beatrice that I think it comes pretty damn close.

I only wish there was a little more depth to the relationship between Beatrice and her mother, which is the crux of the novel and yet never quite becomes concrete. But I loved how all the other central relationships were written, and the easy flow to the author’s writing style made them feel real.

Outside toes the line between contemporary litfic and contemporary romance, so if you enjoy this intersection I really recommend this one!

Thank you to Netgalley and Oneworld for the ARC!

[Shona · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️💫 Following a tragic incident, rising-star Beatrice is struggling. Having retreated from life entirely, she finds herself unable to leave the house. With her acting career now over, (Though don’t tell her agent), and discovering who her real friends aren’t, her world has shrunk—its only inhabitants, an elderly Polish neighbour, the world’s most boring postman, her therapist with issues of her own, and Piano Bitch from across the road. Thank God for Matisse, her beloved, foul-mouthed parakeet. When she hires Irish gardener, Finn, to tame the overgrown garden that she cannot even enter, things take an unexpected turn. Their connection blossoms, and she’s no longer isolated and alone. But can a relationship survive the restrictions that control her, or will love enable Beatrice to confront her fears and step outside again?

I was utterly captivated by the storytelling of this book, the writing style fully encapsulating everything about the present day situation, inserting snippets of the past to explain the current predicament.

Beatrice is a brilliant character, the writing style providing an insight into every single one of her thoughts, so much so that at times, I was wondering if I had become so connected with the character that I was preempting what she was going to say!

The premise of someone dealing with agoraphobia might not seem like the most gripping of hooks for a book but honestly, this is so beautifully written it is like taking a journey with a close friend, feeling every emotion along the way. It’s hard to delve much deeper in this review without giving too much away but Beatrice is a character you will keep in your heart for many years to come.

And my favourite relationship in the whole book? Why the one between Beatrice and parakeet Matisse of course, with certain moments summed up perfectly thanks to the minimal vocabulary the bird has learnt.

I did wonder if we would be told more about some of the last events revealed, but overall it is evident the reader doesn’t need to know more than is detailed as the reasoning for why Beatrice develops her need for a safe space for her to remain becomes obvious. This is a powerful book that is filled with of importance and I can’t recommend enough, a brilliant and clever read.

[Emily May · Rating 4 out of 5]

'What's this about a gardener?'
'Oh, just that I pretended I wanted a quote, then feigned dizziness to get him to move the bins back. Anxiety makes you evil. They don't publicise that on mental health awareness week. God knows what I'll do next time.'

Outside was quite an experience— equal parts funny and devastating. I'm not sure I've read a book about agoraphobia before, and certainly not any as effective as this one.

It works especially well, I think, because of the many darkly humorous moments peppered amongst the story of Beatrice's mental health struggles. Levin balances the light with the dark, allowing us to laugh at a ridiculous scenario at the same time as feeling deeply sorry for Beatrice. Having a parakeet say "wanker" at perfectly (or terribly) timed moments was hilarious.

The story alternates between the present, where Beatrice cannot leave her house, and the past, in which she is an actress following in her mother's footsteps. There is also a third "Before" that looks at Beatrice's early childhood primarily from her mother's perspective. Throughout, mysterious events where bad things happened are teased, and discovering exactly what occurred drives the novel.

While I was reading this book, it so happens that I adopted a new cat. If you don't know, often when cats are rehomed, when their whole world is turned upside down and nothing smells familiar... they hide. They find a small place to make secure and hole up there until the outside world becomes bearable again. I say this because the parallels struck me, and because it has a certain logic. When your world is destabilised, when it becomes unpredictable and maybe unsafe, creating a small, enclosed environment that you can control actually makes sense.

That's what Beatrice does when her world falls apart. I really liked her as a character, and I found her poor decision-making realistic and understandable given the circumstances. Her bond with Matisse (the parakeet) was wonderful and moving.

There is a love story, but the author handles this carefully and refuses to offer a neat solution in Beatrice's healing. I really appreciate not selling romance as a cure-all, which too many authors are tempted to do, and Levin's resistance to giving Beatrice a magical way out strengthens the story.

My two minor complaints are related. 1) I think it went on a little too long, and 2) Some of the subplots seemed unnecessary. I wasn't totally sold on the mystery of Beatrice's father's identity, and I'm not sure why we got to see her therapist's romance.

Still, I thought it was very good. Going in, I was a bit worried it would be like other books in which a female protagonist lives in her head/room and the whole point seems to be to bore the reader senseless (*cough*My Year of Rest and Relaxation*cough*) but it is closer to Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine and Sorrow and Bliss, both of which I loved.

And the author's note is a must-read.

[Books By Your Bedside · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Thanks to NetGalley and Oneworld for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.

I had this pre-ordered but had to cancel it after having money issues so I'm thrilled I was sent an e-copy.

I found this instantly fabulous. Beatrice is a difficult character to like at times, but I found myself really warming to her. She has her issues yes, but they're not just used as a side story or just to tick a box. They're so deep and considered and done with such empathy, I loved her. Charlotte's talent at creating a character that has been through grief and other difficulties, and has struggled with coping with all of that - she's just a very familiar and well written character and I just wanted to hold her hand throughout.

It flits between the "now" and the "before". Whilst the "before" scenes are interesting and I enjoyed them, I preferred the present scenes. I felt there was more, personally, for me to get my teeth into.

It is so effortless to read and feels like it was effortless to write (although I don't want to dumb down the writing experience). The sentences are written well, the dialogue natural, the characters so deep and familiar, the chapters a reasonable length, the emotion deep and moving and identifiable and just, yeah, really effortless storytelling.

I love how intense it is. That sounds weird, let me explain. There's some difficult topics covered in this book, some intense feelings, but she's handled them so well. They're not hidden but now are they sensationalised. She's got the right balance. And she's injected humour into it. Not OTT humour and it's also not a morbid humour, it's a natural humour which helps lighten the tougher moments.

It's not a short book at nearly 400 pages but it's so easy to read that I finished it in just a day. It flows so well and it is so enjoyable that the page count just flies by.

My one...not negative, because it's not a negative, more of an observation and what I wanted. The ending was a little abrupt. It was really good, don't get me wrong, and I think it's because it was so good that I wanted more. I'd have liked the resolution and relationships just to be drawn out a bit more so I could enjoy it more. But what is there is very good, works well with the story, and leaves you satisfied.

I believe Charlotte has her own experiences with agoraphobia, which is why this book is so important to her and I can really see that personal touch. People think it's not as serious as it is, that you're lazy, you don't want to go out, you want to stay home - but that's simplifying it. It's not a condition that means you want to stay at home. It's a condition that means you can't leave the house. That's completely different and I think it will do a world of good to see it as a main plot point in a mainstream book by a popular author.

What I can't believe is this is the first of her books I've read. I would have put money on having read her others but apparently not. But this is a good thing because now it gives me an excuse to buy them.

[Claire (readwithgzxklair) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you imagine sitting in your living room with the curtains closed, not being able to even look at your garden? Not being able to wheel the bins to the edge of the road or help a neighbour in need?

Meet Beatrice. After going through a devastating life event, she slowly shrinks away from a life she thought she loved and people she believed would always be there for her. Beatrice’s life slowly becomes a blurred mess of grief, agoraphobia and depression, and she passes the time by chatting with her swearword-happy parakeet, dancing wildly on the sofa and playing old records. Her only friends are now the postman and her lovely Polish neighbour.

That is, until Finn comes along. The Irish gardener handing flyers out around her neighbourhood and chatting happily to Gorgeous Woman. After several excuses and odd stories, Finn ends up in Beatrice’s garden.

“Would you like a macaron? They’re lavender.”
“Oh… not to be rude but they sound terrible.”

****
This is an intense, emotional story peppered with dark, witty humour. If you follow Charlotte on social media, you'll know she has shared her own experiences with agoraphobia, which explains why she's able to write about it so authentically.

If it's not an illness you have encountered before (lucky you!), Beatrice and her lifestyle might annoy you. You might feel yourself screaming through the pages at her to 'just go outside', but I can promise you that suffering with agoraphobia really is this damn bad. In which case, I urge you to read on and really try to understand how life-ruining it can be.

“I can’t go outside.”
“Well of course you can, Beatrice. You just open the door and go.”

Despite Beatrice pausing her work as an actress and retreating from the world, she is still desperate for connection. She relies on a few kind people to help her get by - putting the bins out, therapy sessions, food deliveries and so on, all while talking to the portrait of her mother hanging in the hallway.

“I am appalling. I am. Thanks a f**king lot.”

Through a series of 'then' and 'now' chapters, including a few 'past' chapters about her mother's youth, we get to learn about Beatrice's life and all of the things that have made her who she is. From living in the shadow of a world-famous mother, to missing out on top projects, she's been through a lot and it's finally all come crashing down.

“I want to see the ocean… it terrifies me that I’ll never see the ocean again.”

One thing I do wish is that there was more to Beatrice's relationship with her mother. I really wish we knew more. I feel like it would have been quite important and could have replaced some of the smaller scenes, perhaps the ones with her therapist. Having said that, going through therapy is a huge part of having a mental health illness, so I understand why those scenes were written.

Overall, I loved this book. I cried, laughed and related the whole way through. I thought it was very funny, but deeply sad and reflective of what life can be like with agoraphobia. It’s definitely one of my favourite books of the year so far and I have been recommending it to everyone.

I received this book as part of a book tour, so a huge thanks to Hollie @noveltours and Charlotte and Magpie Books for having me!

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

We start with Beatrice who, after a tragic incident last year, is now agoraphobic, unable to leave her house, even to just put the bins out or bring them in. For that, she relies on her elderly neighbour Piotr. He only other interactions are with "Marvin" the postman, "Piano Woman" from across the road and Matisse, her potty-mouthed parrot.
But things get to a head when Piotr has a fall and she is unable to even go out to help him. After he is taken to hospital, without him, she is also now unable to do the bins, incurring the wrath of Piano Woman and so, when Finn appears, touting for clients for his gardening business, she decides to employ him. Both to do the garden, which she can't even go out in, but also, more importantly, to do her bins!
As well as the ongoing connection Beatrice starts to form with Finn, we also go back in time, both to last spring and also to Beatrice's childhood. We see how her mother's influence shaped her, and is still her influence in the present. We also find out what happened last year to cause all her current anxiety and agoraphobia issues. As for her connection with Finn... well, that's for you to discover as the author intends.
I enjoyed If I Can't Have You, the author's debut, when I read it years ago. But I seem to have missed out on her follow up - If I Let You Go - which, after finishing this book I immediately reserved from the library! Like another of my favourite authors, she is great at writing what I call wounded characters. They come across as completely real and elicit loads of emotions and indeed emotional connections with me. I loved Beatrice as a character and, for reasons I can't expand on here due to spoilers, I felt for her and her situation every step of the way. I also loved Finn and his gentle manner. It's a character driven story and the characters do a great job of driving the narrative all the way through.
It's also a very balanced book. Yes there is a lot of darkness to be found in Beatrice's past but there is also a lot of light, some she can't see initially, but it is there waiting for her to be ready to welcome it. It's also quite funny at times. Matisse does add a few comedy moments!
All in all, a wonderful story , starring the best characters which culminates in a wholly satisfying ending. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

[Tara Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and OneWorld Publications for an advanced copy of this book.

From the opening pages, I knew I was going to enjoy Outside. Charlotte Levin’s writing is beautifully lyrical and deeply thoughtful- qualities I always hope to find and rarely do. I highlighted so many passages, including this one:

“The room drinks the sun as though it’s been dying of thirst, and she stands, straight, within the bright rectangle on the floor and blinks, adjusting her eyes to the glare. Particles of dust dance around her as though she were a maypole.”

The prose is gorgeous, but it is also balanced by wonderfully dry humour. Lines such as, “Better therapy then. I know a Chinese doctor who helped my sister-in-law’s depression, God rest her soul,” and, “She pours the milk first. That’s how tormented she is. She’s pouring the milk in first,” made me laugh while also revealing so much about the character of Bea.

This is a novel with heavy subject matter. Agoraphobia can be life-changing and can present in many different ways. Levin approaches the subject, which I later discovered is incredibly close to her heart, with sincerity, compassion, humour and honesty. For those looking in from the outside, it is an illness that can be difficult to understand. Yet the novel also conveys the sense that even the person experiencing it may not understand why their mind and body will not cooperate. Bea’s frustration, and her need to control the smallest details when the larger things feel impossible to control, come through powerfully.

Bea is an actress who has always lived comfortably in the shadow of her mother. When a life-changing event occurs, she retreats completely into herself. Physically and mentally trapped inside her home, she is too afraid, and unable, to go outside. Then she meets Finn. Could he be the person who helps her find a way back to herself?

I hope this book does really well. It has a great deal to say, but never feels self-indulgent or preachy. Instead, it is delicate, considered and quietly affecting. I came away with more than just a memorable story and beautiful writing; I also felt more informed and compassionate about the subject at its heart.

[bookedupnurse · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘She presses her navel as if it were now an intercom and she’s awaiting a connection. Because for some, umbilical cords are like the phantom limbs of amputees. Though severed, they will always be felt’.

Following a tragic incident, actress Beatrice is struggling with social anxiety and agoraphobia. Having retreated from her life completely, including from her work, she finds herself unable to leave the house, relying on delivery services and an older neighbour to do her bins. Her only other companions are a foul-mouthed parakeet named Matisse and her soon to be ex-postman. She has had a lifetime of let downs and disappointment from the people she has loved the most and she has resigned to the idea that trust will always be broken.

But things take a turn for the better when she hires Irish Gardener, Finn, to tame her overgrown London garden. While their connection blossoms, she is no longer alone or isolated. But a life of restrictions can affect a relationship. Will theirs be able to survive her intense fears?

Following Bea’s past as well as her present life, this story is one of grief, loss and deteriorating mental health alongside complex relationships. Beatrice is a good protagonist, witty and relatable. The additional characters work really well within the story and it feels like a dysfunctional family set-up, with necessary dark humour that lightens difficult topics.

For me, this story is overly long and could have been trimmed down and still been a really good read. I loved the recovery process of her anxiety and the variable nature of this journey. The writing feels authentic, empathetic and brave. The metaphorical experience of living in one of the busiest cities in the world and feeling so isolated, claustrophobic and alone is also not lost on the reader.

A very different type of book from my normal go-to, this is my first Charlotte Levin book and I’m looking forward to reading more! I could also easily see this becoming a short series on a streaming site!

With thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher - Magpie Books - for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.

[Gill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by this author Charlotte Levin. I’ve always wanted to read her other two books but never quite got round to it. I think I’ve probably followed her on social media since before even her first book was published. I have vague recollections of her posts during the pandemic and despite her struggles she always came across as a bubbly, funny person. So when I saw she had a new book out, and I read the description I grabbed the chance to finally read one of her books.

It’s such a good book, more so because I suspected it must be based on her own experience of agoraphobia and though all the characters are fictional, it gives huge insight into the condition, though as she points out in her author’s note at the end of the book, everyone’s experience is different.

The story goes back and forth in time through the book as we follow Beatrice as she is now, in the present, unable to leave her flat and relying on her elderly neighbour to help her out in any way he could. She also has Matisse, her parakeet to keep her company, something permanent in her life, something to care for.

Going back to the past in various chapters we learn of her increasing anxiety, trying to come to terms with grief, an unfaithful boyfriend and realising she was hanging on to the career she’d always dreamed of by the skin of her teeth.

It’s funny, emotional, very insightful and completely heart breaking at times. A wonderful, enjoyable read, and whilst it entertains, it also informs, giving readers a better understanding of anxiety and as Charlotte puts it in her notes “a fear of fear”.

Although as I understand, this book is perhaps a little different from her other two books, I enjoyed her writing style and will definitely find the time to read those other two books sooner rather than later.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy received from Net Galley

I’ve adored Charlotte Levin’s previous books so I couldn’t wait to get stuck into this one!

The story follows Beatrice, an actress who develops agoraphobia after a devastating loss. We get her story through three timelines – "Previously", "Recently" and "Now" – and I absolutely loved how everything slowly came together. Every time I thought I understood Beatrice, another piece of her past was revealed that made me see her differently.

Beatrice isn't always an easy character to like because of how dependent she is on the people around her, but after everything she'd been through, her attachment issues made complete sense. I found myself really rooting for her, especially as she started to build new friendships and relationships and took tiny steps towards getting her life back. I also appreciated that her recovery wasn't rushed or made to seem easy. It felt realistic, and those small victories felt just as important as the big ones.

I also really enjoyed how this book explored grief and mental health. It didn't shy away from how messy and complicated both can be, but it also never felt hopeless.
The author's note at the end was the perfect way to finish the book. Finding out that Charlotte Levin has experienced agoraphobia herself and wrote this story to raise awareness made Beatrice's journey feel even more authentic.

This was a brilliant character-driven read with complex relationships, family secrets, grief, hope and a really honest portrayal of agoraphobia. If you enjoy books that focus on people rather than plot, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up!

[katie | tales creative · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to one world publications for sending me an early copy of Outside by Charlotte Levin.

I took this one on holiday with me and ended up reading it on the beach over two days. It was one of those books that you just think ‘one more chapter’.

The story follows Beatrice, an actress whose career is on the verge of taking off but after a tragedy, her anxiety becomes so overwhelming that she can’t leave her house.

My favourite part was the way the story unfolded across different timelines as I’m a sucker for jumps back & forth. Alongside present day Beatrice, we get to see her life a year earlier with how she got there, as well as flashbacks to her childhood and her relationship with her famous momma.

I gave this ⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars

I absolutely flew through this one. I loved the themes of grief, anxiety and identity & also the humour throughout.

The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star read for me was that I wanted a little bit more from the ending. I became so invested in the characters and their relationships that I would happily have read a few extra chapters to see where things really went and how new relationships introduced very late in the book developed.

Overall, this was such an engaging and emotional read, and I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy character driven contemporary fiction, complicated family dynamics, personal growth stories and books by authors like Taylor Jenkins Reid and Coco Mellors.

Outside publishes on 6th August 2026

[Mags Schofield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book and characters are so real. Beatrice suffers from agoraphobia, and as we read her backstory, we gradually learn why. She is a trusting soul who has been let down by the people she loves. Trust is fragile and easily broken. Once lost it is hard to regain, so Beatrice turns inwards. But as an actor, that cannot be sustained. Gradually, with help of the unlikely pairing of a bird and a gardener, she begins to feel her way. Finn and Mattisse become not just the key, but the glue to her very gradual piecing together of her life.
Living in the shadow of a famous mother, and not knowing the identity of her father means that Beatrice appears full of insecurities. We travel with her through the ups and downs of her everyday life, where even putting rubbish in the bin is excruciatingly difficult, watching as she gradually blossoms into the 'real Beatrice'
As anyone who has ever suffered any kind of social anxiety knows, this is not an easy journey.
Not an easy read, but very interesting and well written.
With thanks to Charlotte Levin, the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Bettina Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow..

It seems weird to say you love a book when the subject matter is one that causes a lot of pain and grief for the person and their loved ones but this book deserves all the accolades. It would make for a powerful film or series and while I was reading it, it was being played out as a film in my head.

Charlotte Levin is an outstanding and gifted writer. Despite the subject matter, she finds time and the space to inject her humour and wit in this very human and emotional novel. She is wickedly funny and I laughed out loud many times throughout the book.

Charlotte wrote this book because she wanted to raise awareness of what it is like to have and live with agoraphobia. I think this book is a masterpiece and a triumph. I was rooting for Beatrice all the way through and lived through every single bit of joy and pain.. I loved the banter and the relationship she had with Finn.

This book deserves a wide audience. It's more than good. If I could give it ten stars I would.

[andshe.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a deeply moving novel that explores grief, agoraphobia & what it takes to re connect with the world after loss. Beatrice is an actress whose life has been turned upside down by a tragic accident that took her mothers life. She can no longer step beyond her front door & for over a year has been living a life controlled by fear & anxiety. 

Beatrice is a superb protagonist, she's intelligent, witty & profoundly relatable. Her struggles are heavy but the undertone of dark humour provided some relief. The supporting characters are equally memorable especially Finn whose intentions never come across unauthentic. 

Levins writing is empathetic capturing the reality behind anxiety & agoraphobia. It's very real, there isn't an easy approach for Beatrice to get better & this story shows just how linear recovery is. 

Outside is a remarkable novel, beautifully written & shows that even the smallest of baby steps forward are an act of bravery. 

Thank you to Netgalley, OneWorld Publications & Charlotte Levin for a digital ARC. 

[Hannah Gunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outside is an incredibly intimate and affecting read that offers such a powerful insight into agoraphobia. Knowing that the story isn't entirely fictional adds another layer of depth and emotional weight, making it feel even more personal and authentic.

Charlotte Levin has created wonderfully complex characters who feel real, flawed, and deeply human. Their relationships and emotions are handled with such care that I found myself completely invested from beginning to end.

And I have to mention Matisse the parakeet, who completely stole my heart! Such a brilliant addition to the story, bringing moments of warmth, comfort, and personality that balanced the heavier themes beautifully.

This is a thoughtful, compassionate novel that explores mental health with honesty and sensitivity. It left a lasting impression on me, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking for character-driven fiction with genuine emotional depth.

Thank you to NetGalley and Oneworld Publications for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Bookish Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has my whole heart. It is an emotionally driven story that doesn't hold back, featuring themes that include grief and fear and the story centres around the impact these contributing factors have on Beatrice, the protagonist, Once a famous, working actress, Beatrice becomes confined to her childhood home following the death of her mother. She is dependant on those she crosses paths with to help her get by. These are mainly people, but also a parakeet called Matisse, who is a huge coping "mechanism" for her. I genuinely LOVED Matisse and all he represented. Whilst initially a household pet, he soon becomes a metaphor for her confinement.

The story is told in dual timelines, present day and flashbacks, the latter slowly explaining the contributing factors that have made Beatrice the way she is.

I sobbed my way through this book, it was emotional, very sad in places, but also had humour too. I stayed up till 2am to finish as I couldn't put it down. It is on "contender for book of the year" list and I hope it gets lot of recognition, because it truly deserves it.

[Turning Pages Turning Heads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book centres around the serious topics of agoraphobia and anxiety disorder. As a healthcare professional I always enjoy books that focus on human health whether that is physical or emotional. However, the subject matter will not be for everyone depending on what struggles of their own they are facing.

The main female character Beatrice has suffered trauma in her life which is the catalyst for her mental health struggles. I found it difficult to warm to Beatrice during the early part of the book but as the story develops, so does a deeper understanding of her personality. There is some humour woven into this book and the romance is a light relief from some of the darker parts of the story. The parakeet Matisse has a starring role, I loved him and want a Matisse too!

This is a fairly slow paced book and I felt it could have been condensed a little or space left to find out how the other relationships develop.
I would recommend this book to others who enjoy this type of fiction.

[Patricia Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've not read Charlotte Levin before but was interested to give it a go when offered this ARC. I found Outside an interesting read which dealt well on the whole with the difficult issues of grief, loss, mental health and agoraphobia. This was mainly through the experiences of the main character Beatrice but also through other characters. I got the impression that either the author had had some experience in these areas or had done some extensive research. That said Beatrice's character annoyed me immensely. She was so awful that although I knew I should be feeling sorry for her I couldn't. My only other criticism of Outside is that I think it is overlong. A little more editing of some of the less vital parts of the text and it would definitely be a more enjoyable experience overall.
Thank you to NetGalley and the
publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Oneworld for the advanced copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.

Charlotte Levin absolutely ATE with this one.

I loved every single second of Outside. It made me laugh, it made me emotional, and I didn’t want it to end.

Beatrice’s journey felt so real, and I loved all the quirky side characters (Matisse was an icon). But Finn… oh my god. Finn is genuinely one of the sweetest fictional men to ever exist. He was so patient, kind and understanding, and I was rooting for them from the minute he appeared.

This book handles some really difficult topics so beautifully without ever losing its warmth or humour. It completely stole my heart.

An easy five stars. I’d recommend this to absolutely everyone. Will be purchasing IMMEDIATELY when it’s out for my shelf.

[Emz Suffolk Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story completely immerses you in Beatrice's world. An acclaimed young actress living in the shadow of her even more prolific and legendary actress mother, Marianne. From the very beginning there is intrigue, with lifelong mysteries slowly unfolding and setting the tone for the events that have led Beatrice to a life of crippling anxiety, leaving her unable to step outside her home.

The way Charlotte Levin writes Beatrice's thought processes, safety behaviours, avoidance and attempts to justify her fears feels incredibly authentic. You really feel how exhausting and all-consuming anxiety can become. It also captures something so important; how powerful the mind can be, not only in trapping us in fear, but also in giving us hope. You can feel the frustrations and spirals of emotions through different situations.

The relationships throughout the story are beautifully written, with each one representing something different for Beatrice. They become symbolic of love, grief, trust, healing, acceptance and hope, all helping to shape her journey.

This book explores trauma, loss, love, grief, mental health, connection and resilience with so much compassion and empathy. Charlotte's writing is delicate, beautifully descriptive and balanced with moments of witty humour, making even the heavier themes feel approachable. She has woven the story so thoughtfully that it never feels too heavy, instead leaving you with a real sense of hope. It offers a refreshingly honest portrayal of anxiety, avoiding the glamorisation or generalisation of such complex experiences.

As a CBT therapist, I felt this was one of the most realistic portrayals of anxiety I've read. It doesn't just show how consuming it can be; it also reflects how powerful our own strength can be in taking back control. Creating new pathways through exposure, sitting with discomfort and recognising that progress comes from taking one small step at a time are all represented with such authenticity.

I really hope this book helps to break down stigma. It shows that anxiety can present itself in so many different ways and that every individual's experience is unique. The feelings are real, even if those looking in from the outside don't always understand or unintentionally minimise them.

Finally, I loved Charlotte Levin's author's note. Her openness in sharing the personal experiences that inspired this story made it even more meaningful and highlighted just how important this novel is.

A beautiful, compassionate and hopeful read that I won't forget.
(Bea and Finn, I'm cheering for you both!)

Thank you to Oneworld Publications and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy

[Nicola Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I nearly gave up on this one when the bird started talking, but I am so pleased I did not! There are a lot of sensitive issues covered and they are dealt with well. Beatrice is agoraphobic and relies on her old neighbour to help her with outside tasks, but that all has to change when he has an accident and is taken to hospital. The plot moves between the present day, a year ago and the past with Beatrice's mam. Is Beatrice living in her mam's shadow as she becomes an actress? Will she be able to continue with her career? There is humour where Beatrice's therapist is scared of Matisse, the bird, and Beatrice ends up counselling her at the same time. Then Beatrice meets Finn and her life starts to change...
The characters are layered and interesting and the story develops well. I will definitely read more from this author.

[Emma Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Merci beacoup netgallery and the author for the advanced copy ***
This could quite possibly be my favourite book of 2026 and one that will stay with me for a very long time.
Oh Beatrice… I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to you. I found myself completely invested in your story and desperate to know what happened next. Charlotte Levin has created such a memorable, beautifully written character that I genuinely need more.
The story is emotional, thought-provoking and utterly captivating. It pulled me in from the very first page and never let go. I laughed, I worried, I hoped, and I was left thinking about it long after I’d finished.
I can only hope Charlotte Levin gives us a sequel because I need to know where life takes Beatrice next.

A truly unforgettable read and an easy 5 stars from me.

[McBreakneck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since a good book friend pestered me into reading If I Can’t Have You, Charlotte Levin has been a must read asap author.

Outside tells Beatrice’s story. She’s recently bereaved, her acting character was just about to take off and she’s agoraphobic. She can’t leave the house.

Charlotte Levin is truly gifted in empathetic, emotionally immersive writing. It’s meditative, thought provoking and deeply moving. Beatrice is one of the most memorable and complete characters you’ll meet in a book this year.

I know it won’t be for everyone but personally I loved it.

Thanks to Netgalley and Oneworld Publications

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book follows the experience of a rising starlet whose promising career is derailed due to a traumatic incident which leaves her with agoraphobia - and a world that has shrunk beyond recognition, to a handful of immediate neighbours and a badly behaved parrot.

When she hires someone to take care of her garden, which is almost as out of control as her life at this point, an unexpected relationship blossoms. But will it be enough to coax her back into the wider world, or will it wither on the vine?

An insightful story about the pitfalls and transience of fame, this gets 3.5 stars.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Outside is a novel about grief, guilt and how loss can completely derail a person’s life. Beatrice loses the human connections which are most vital to her wellbeing without much to replace them as her world shrinks to the space behind her own front door. Could the arrival of Finn, the gardener who undertakes to clear the overgrown garden which Beatrice can’t even look at, prove to be the start of a tentative re-engagement with the outside?
Charlotte’s writing is lyrical and absolutely beautiful, peppered with humour which balances the heavy emotional themes.
I liked the realistic ending; life is rarely neatly wrapped up a big bow.
Thanks to NetGalley and Oneworld for the ARC

[Edward J · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exceptionally well crafted book, I have read all Charlotte’s books and this is the best by far. Her writing is always packed with extremely clever observations and a never letting up sentence by sentence detail, giving a rich intense quality to what must be in this case a very serious personal subject matter.
Humour runs through this book along with sadness and fear, loss and love.

Not a good read a great read.

[Louise Fein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh how I adored this book! Suffused with equal measures of pain and humour, this book is a triumph. Levin masterfully pulls the reader into the complicated mind of her glorious protagonist, Beatrice, so that we feel viscerally all of her loss and love, her agony and joy. A wonderful, compassionate and real exploration of the tragedy and triumph of being human. Very few books make me cry - this did, in the very best way.

[Ophelia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Outside is a thoughtful, introspective novel with a steady, atmospheric rhythm. Charlotte Levin writes about guilt, fear, and vulnerability with real sensitivity, and there are moments where the emotional detail lands beautifully. For me, the pacing felt very slow and the ending arrived quietly, but I can see this resonating with readers who enjoy character‑driven stories that unfold gently rather than dramatically.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book follows Beatrice who is dealing with grief, agoraphobia, and anxiety.

This is my first Charlotte Levin book and I was totally immersed in this.
After a freak accident, Beatrice shuts herself away from the world, apart from Marvin the postman, Piano Bitch, her old neighbour and Finn her newly appointed gardener there isn't anyone else she interacts with.

I would certainly recommend this book to anyone.

Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy.

[CeeceeBee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written and I instantly fell in love with Bea, who is crafted with the perfect blend of sadness and humour. The description of anxiety and how physical it can be is so accurate it felt like my own thoughts on the page. My only reason for not giving 4 stars is the ending felt a little rushed. I understand why there was a time jump but I wanted to see some of what happened to get Bea to that point. Loved this book though, could not put it down.