There isn’t much focus on food in The Outsider—the story is driven instead by the hunt for the true perpetrator behind a brutal murder. The novel centers on the chilling investigation and the dark, supernatural forces that twist the line between guilt and innocence.

The novel is set in the fictional town of Flint City, Ohio, where a classic comfort food like chicken-fried steak fits perfectly with the grounded, small-town atmosphere. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this hearty dish—smothered in white or brown gravy and served with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans—feels practical, filling, and familiar. It’s exactly the kind of meal Ralph Anderson, an honest, hardworking detective, would sit down to after a long, exhausting day on the job.

Caramel apples would make a fun and interactive treat for a book club gathering. Set up a DIY caramel apple bar with a variety of toppings—like crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, sea salt, sprinkles, or cookie crumbles—so everyone can create their own.