Customer Reviews

Outside In

5 star:		(5)
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1 star:		(2)

 

 

I liked the first novel a lot and couldn't wait for the sequel. It's a real page-turner and it also raises questions about the gay scene that are very valid. Go and order it now!

Thorogood's fantastic follow-up to his first book "Outcast" continues the story of Mark and Andrew, two young British men in love and living in a small English town. Moving to London, with its vibrant gay scene, seems like a dream come true for them both, but soon the temptations of drugs and gorgeous men cause Mark to succumb. Mark tries to hide his errors, but ultimately Andrew finds out. How can their relationship survive this betrayal of trust? With a compelling and kinetic style, Thorogood tells this modern gay romance tale in an intelligent and realistic fashion. Certain to appeal to fans of the "Queer As Folk" series, as well as those readers of gay romance novels, "Outside In" delivers a superb modern story of relationship angst that speaks to all gay men. I can hardly wait until the next book!

In this novel Stuart Thorogood has created that rare thing: a sequel that is better that its predecessor. I loved the first novel, 'Outcast', so naturally couldn't wait to get my hands on this, the second book. And it doesn't disappoint. Thorogood's prose has definitely improved from his original novel, but still retains that excellent, raw quality that made 'Outcast' such a modern classic. What I liked most about this book, was that it didn't focus so much on the coming out issues that 'Outcast' dealt with. 'Outside In' is funny, moving, touching, sexy and so TRUE that it's sometimes difficult to get across in words exactly how close to life on the gay scene this really comes. Definitely recommended.

This is a great book! If you liked Outcast, you must read the sequel. And, if you haven't read Outcast, although this book can equally be read alone, I would advise you to order them both! Like the first book, this tells a simple but great story. However, whereas in the first book I felt more affected by the story - here I felt more involved with the characters. This only goes to show that the writer is getting better and analysing human emotions and reactions more. For someone so young he has a very insightful outlook on life.

There are also some great parallels here (and arguments) concerning all relationships and life, for everyone to relate to. Whatever your gender I think you'll find this book accessable and an enjoyable as well as emotional read. Highly recommended - if you are gay or have gay friends, or are just curious... or possibly if you just want to be a part of the human race. It took a while for delivery but it was worth the wait...

The sequel, Outside in, is better than Outcast, which at times seemed rushed. Outside in is more soulful and sincere. It is a beautiful love story of two people who truly love each other. By alternating between Mark's and Andrew's narration, the story shines, often overwelming in its openness. After so much soul searching, it is just great to have Mark and Andrew together in the end. I have to admit to my weakness. I actually peeped at the last page when things began to go sour for the two lovers. Stuart, thank you for another beautiful book. Please don't let us wait too long for your 3rd novel.

Compared to Outcast, this really was a terribly written book. It felt like the author rushed to get something on paper -- forgetting that he had to write a story with some relevence. It had very little depth and situations that I've read a hundred times -- only much better.

There are a lot of truly insightful and beautifully written gay novels out there (The World of Normal Boys comes to mind). Unfortunately, this one is really a waste of time.

While Outcast was both charming and entertaining, this follow up seems to have been written by a 12 year old. It's all cliches and ridiculously contrived situations. No depth, no emotion. Just 282 pages of drivel.