Inside Outside by Faye Arcand

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.