Helpful Score: 43
This is probably the best series I have EVER read-and I've read a lot. I think I read the entire series (all six, 900 page books) in under 2 weeks. While I was working and going to school-that's how awesome they are, I could not put them down, I HAD to find out what would happen. I agree with what others have said that these are not romance novels-they really focus on the heroine and the realities of what it would be like to be stuck in another time. Her writing and storytelling is very believable, and the sub-plot of what plays out between Jamie (swoon!) and Claire, is just a the icing on the cake. What a great read-two thumbs way, way up. I ended up buying all the books after because I want to make sure I can find them when I want to read them again. I've already reread bits and pieces of them, and I only read them for the first time a few months ago. Awesome, awesome writing.
Helpful Score: 27
I'm not a fan of time-travel/science fiction/fantasy/series, but this novel defies being categorized. Yes, it is time-travel, yes, it is romance, yes, it is historical fiction. Overall, it is phenomenal! I happened to pick up Outlander at a garage sale for 25 cents -- and then couldn't stop until I read the rest of the series, plus the Lord John novel spin-off. I can't wait to see how Gabaldon picks up with the next book in the series. FANTASTIC!
Helpful Score: 21
Had a hard time with the first couple chapters cuz I thought they were kinda boring. But, once she reaches Jamie, I couldn't put it down. Very intense.
Helpful Score: 13
Our book club chose this as a "relief" book after struggling through Faulkner's THE SOUND AND THE FURY, and while I only expected lighthearted entertainment, this was a fascinating, engrossing read. I set aside certain daily obligations (!) to sneak away with this book...I could not put it down until i was finished. HIGHLY recommended escapist reading!
Helpful Score: 12
I can't remember who or what prompted me to pick up this series in the first place, probably the amount of excellent reviews I kept seeing on it and the fact that I love historical fiction. But I do remember starting out this first book in the Outlander series and thinking: "meh..."
Gabaldon does go on and on with her silly little (pointless) tangents which have nothing to do with the actual plot line and only serve to increase her already bursting word count. During the first half of this book I kept putting it down and my boyfriend kept asking me why I was even bothering.
And then I got to the second half, before I knew it I was knee deep in Gabaldon worship just like the rest of the female population. Holy crap, how much do we love Jamie Fraser? Gabaldon has created the most perfectly imperfect, intense, wonderful, rugged, passionate, lovable, beautiful specimen on paper. (Have you ever googled "outlander movie"? Much to the chagrin of every warm blooded woman out there (and possibly some men...) there is not a movie version of this fantastic hero. But that doesn't stop everyone from casting him. Go check out some of the "who's your Jamie" fan sites, suggesting dozens upon dozens of different actors to portray this god among men.)
Anyway, Excellent novel. An intense read with characters you will know intimately once you close the back cover. Very emotional series. I couldn't read just book one. I had to keep buying the next one in the series. And then the next one...
I would recommend to anyone who has an interest in history and who is above reading a bit of fluff. This is a challenging, engrossing read. Definitely on my "to keep" shelf.
Gabaldon does go on and on with her silly little (pointless) tangents which have nothing to do with the actual plot line and only serve to increase her already bursting word count. During the first half of this book I kept putting it down and my boyfriend kept asking me why I was even bothering.
And then I got to the second half, before I knew it I was knee deep in Gabaldon worship just like the rest of the female population. Holy crap, how much do we love Jamie Fraser? Gabaldon has created the most perfectly imperfect, intense, wonderful, rugged, passionate, lovable, beautiful specimen on paper. (Have you ever googled "outlander movie"? Much to the chagrin of every warm blooded woman out there (and possibly some men...) there is not a movie version of this fantastic hero. But that doesn't stop everyone from casting him. Go check out some of the "who's your Jamie" fan sites, suggesting dozens upon dozens of different actors to portray this god among men.)
Anyway, Excellent novel. An intense read with characters you will know intimately once you close the back cover. Very emotional series. I couldn't read just book one. I had to keep buying the next one in the series. And then the next one...
I would recommend to anyone who has an interest in history and who is above reading a bit of fluff. This is a challenging, engrossing read. Definitely on my "to keep" shelf.
Helpful Score: 11
If your looking at this book and you aren't sure what to expect, then your in the same position I was before I picked it up. To clarify, this is historical fiction with romantic and paranormal undertones. Do not pick this up expecting a light read.
Clair is a married woman, a nurse, having cared for men during world war two. She is on a trip with her husband in Scotland. When she touches a magical stone, she finds herself in the 18th century where she quickly becomes immersed in a world of Scottish politics and war. Romance eventually blossoms when she is forced to marry Jamie, a fugitive of English law.
You are never bored, and that's an impressive statement considering how long this book is. Each page is filled with interesting details. The plot has a nice rise and fall of action so it reads like a well-timed adventure tale. I also thought the romance had a smooth, realistic tone to it.
I call this romance very adult because Gabaldon doesn't settle for the classic boy-meets-girl happily ever after fairy tale so common in the romance genre. Instead you get cringe worthy conflict, awkwardness, danger, and in the end only very tentative hope at happiness. In a way I think this is refreshingly realistic
I cant see why some readers may have thematic issues with this book. There's quite a bit of violence. Talk (and demonstration) of wife beating and child beating is casual--because of the time period. There is also rape, murder, flogging,etc. So if you dislike violence, I'd skip this book.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to purchase a large piece of fiction with a lot of substance.
Clair is a married woman, a nurse, having cared for men during world war two. She is on a trip with her husband in Scotland. When she touches a magical stone, she finds herself in the 18th century where she quickly becomes immersed in a world of Scottish politics and war. Romance eventually blossoms when she is forced to marry Jamie, a fugitive of English law.
You are never bored, and that's an impressive statement considering how long this book is. Each page is filled with interesting details. The plot has a nice rise and fall of action so it reads like a well-timed adventure tale. I also thought the romance had a smooth, realistic tone to it.
I call this romance very adult because Gabaldon doesn't settle for the classic boy-meets-girl happily ever after fairy tale so common in the romance genre. Instead you get cringe worthy conflict, awkwardness, danger, and in the end only very tentative hope at happiness. In a way I think this is refreshingly realistic
I cant see why some readers may have thematic issues with this book. There's quite a bit of violence. Talk (and demonstration) of wife beating and child beating is casual--because of the time period. There is also rape, murder, flogging,etc. So if you dislike violence, I'd skip this book.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to purchase a large piece of fiction with a lot of substance.
Helpful Score: 9
I've read this book at least 3 times, and am making my way through the entire series (again)! One of my all time favorite books...
Helpful Score: 8
My absolute, most favorite series in the world ever! She writes such beautiful, haunting books that have adventure, romance, intrigue, travel, history...you name it, it's in it! She makes me laugh, cry and hope that all of her books won't ever end.
I cannot tell you how many times over the years that I have found myself wondering about Claire and Jamie as if they were personal friends of mine instead of characters in a book.
I cannot tell you how many times over the years that I have found myself wondering about Claire and Jamie as if they were personal friends of mine instead of characters in a book.
Helpful Score: 6
Good story but a little too much of a romance novel for me
Helpful Score: 6
This is a wonderful, engaging story that I found easy to lose myself in. Well written, extremely accurate, and evocative, I definitely enjoyed this book cover to cover.
Helpful Score: 5
Trust me...even if you aren't a fan of romance, this is a great book. I've never met anyone yet who didn't love it.
Helpful Score: 5
I am completely in love with Jamie! I couldn't stop reading this book. Wonderful research of history added to credibility. The story has two levels: one being an action story, warriors and the like; the second being a love story between Jamie and Claire. Love transcends all time and the 2 are never free from one another. Whew, I have read this book over and over.
Helpful Score: 5
I read this book after meeting a woman on an airplane who was reading a romance novel while I was reading a vampire romance and we knew a kindred spirit when we saw one. We spent the flight talking about our favorite subject and she told me about Outlander. She said it was the best book of any genre she'd ever read. I thought it was quite a compliment and bought it the next day.
After I read this book I didnt' enjoy the next four or five books I read. The quality of Gabaldon's writing is so superior to other authors in the genre (historical romance?) that everyone else seems like a hack. Absolutely beautifully written. At the start I had difficulty getting into the book. I put it down several times before I made it past the first couple hundred pages. Then I couldn't put it down at all. As it is a loooong book, I didn't get much sleep!
The slow development of the relationship between Jamie and Claire is almost excruciating. Yet it is the most romantic development, the deepest love, the most intense and believable relationship I've ever read. The love scenes, for the most part, are not particularly graphic or even very long, but the love and the relationship around them makes them seem more graphic and much more intense.
After I read this book I didnt' enjoy the next four or five books I read. The quality of Gabaldon's writing is so superior to other authors in the genre (historical romance?) that everyone else seems like a hack. Absolutely beautifully written. At the start I had difficulty getting into the book. I put it down several times before I made it past the first couple hundred pages. Then I couldn't put it down at all. As it is a loooong book, I didn't get much sleep!
The slow development of the relationship between Jamie and Claire is almost excruciating. Yet it is the most romantic development, the deepest love, the most intense and believable relationship I've ever read. The love scenes, for the most part, are not particularly graphic or even very long, but the love and the relationship around them makes them seem more graphic and much more intense.
Helpful Score: 4
Absolutely LOVE this series. highly recommend if you enjoy the possibilities of time travel and Scotland. love the interplay between characters. Have always wanted to visit Scotland, even more so now after reading this series.
Helpful Score: 4
A 10 star book! I loooove this series. I've read the whole series once, and now I'm going back for a 2nd time. They are THAT good! :o)
Helpful Score: 4
I love all things Scotland, and so a friend of mine recommended the Outlander series, and I have to say I am hooked!
I fell in love with Jamie almost instantly, and loved the journey of Claire and Jamie. Can't wait to read the next one.
I fell in love with Jamie almost instantly, and loved the journey of Claire and Jamie. Can't wait to read the next one.
Helpful Score: 4
Utterly engrossing - Scottish history too
Helpful Score: 4
I picked up the fifth book in this series at a thrift store only to relaize it was part of a series. Came onto PBS and got lucky in getting books 1-4 within a week. Finished off the first book, Outlander, in about 2 days. Interesting novel, a bit of romance, time travel, history and mystery all in one! I look forward to reading more within this series. I found myself becoming more and more interested in the characters and wanthing to know what would happen to them.
Helpful Score: 4
I have to say that Ms. Gabaldon wrote the heck out of this book. I swear I couldn't put it down. Jamie and Claire are the epitome of Hero and heroine of historical romance. I laughed, I cried, I scoffed at the audacity of the bad man and then I cried some more. This is a must read for any lover of not just historical, but of romance in general. And then you must read the sequals!!
Helpful Score: 3
This book is one of the best historical romances I have ever read. Jamie is a hero to die for.
While this book is highly acclaimed by many readers, I found it to be dull, poorly executed drivel. Especially unpleasant is the antagonist who's repressed homosexuality and attraction to our hero fuels his violent rages, sadistic behavior, and repression of the Scots in this area of operation.
I gave the book 1/2 star so that no one would think I'd forgotten to rate it. If only negative stars were available... I kind of feel cheated out of my time spent with it.
I gave the book 1/2 star so that no one would think I'd forgotten to rate it. If only negative stars were available... I kind of feel cheated out of my time spent with it.
Helpful Score: 3
Wow! I wish there were more stars so I could give this series at least 10!
(also on amazon.com)
A friend of mine recommended this book and I was a little leery about reading it at first due to the time travel component (sounded weird and I've never been a scifi fan), but finally decided to read it because my friend spoke so highly of it and our tastes are very similar.
I've never written a book review before, but feel compelled to comment on this one. Outlander is an intoxicating combination of historical action/adventure fiction, time travel and romance. There are lots of plot twists, as much action as a James Bond movie and as many characters as a Dickens novel. The characters are so vividly drawn that you feel you know them as intimate friends by the end of the book/series. The historical details are fascinating and life in 18th century Scotland is described in such exquisite detail that you feel as if you have visited Scotland.
However, be warned. These books are highly addictive! If you read this, you will be compelled to read the rest of the books in this series (to date, dragonfly in amber, voyager, drums of autumn, fiery cross, and breath of snow and ashes). I read all six of the series in six weeks (6000+ pages / 3 million words). My husband says I became obsessed with the books and read them to the exclusion of everything else including housework, friends, family and him. It became so bad that by the time I was nearing the end of the last book, (breath of snow and ashes), he was threatening to leave me unless I gave up reading.
Jamie Fraser is hero with whom no living man can compare. He is at once a fierce, courageous, protective warrior and yet a passionate, tender, sentimental and sensitive husband with a very engaging sense of humor to boot and you just can't get enough of him and his feisty, bold, smart wife Claire. Jamie's love for Claire is so selfless and unconditional that it is at times heartbreaking. I found the scene where he takes Claire back to the standing stones (thinking that she wants to return to her own time and that it's not safe for her to remain in the 17th century) so touching that I cried. He explains later that he prayed all the way up that hill; not for her to stay, because that wouldn't have been right. Instead, He prayed for the strength not to fall on his knees and beg her to stay.
Even my husband enjoyed the book. Although the ending of Outlander is disturbing and upsetting, it does not diminish the book in any wary --rather it adds to it. I've come to realize that the plot twists at the end of her books are a technique of Diana's--just when you think everything is fine and we're going to have a happily ever after, Diana pulls the rug out from under your feet and the characters experience some (often life threatening) disaster which they must surmount; sometimes it's more than one disaster in succession. It keeps you excitedly turning pages up to the very last page. I find Outlander the best of the series, then Voyager and then Breath of Snow and Ashes, although each one is a very good novel capable of standing on its own; none of them disappoint.
It is an insult to Diana Gabaldon to classify this as a "romance" novel just because it does have some romance in it among the other plot themes. I think historical/action adventure would be more accurate. It is so much more than others of the romance genre. I'm afraid she has ruined me for other authors. I picked up a couple of other novels to read while I'm waiting for Diana's next installment in the series (due in 2-3 years) and nothing else quite compares.
Oh, and BTW, it couldn't be any further removed from a 1980's style "bodice ripper", to which some inane reviewer compares it.
Write faster, Diana! Write Faster!
(also on amazon.com)
A friend of mine recommended this book and I was a little leery about reading it at first due to the time travel component (sounded weird and I've never been a scifi fan), but finally decided to read it because my friend spoke so highly of it and our tastes are very similar.
I've never written a book review before, but feel compelled to comment on this one. Outlander is an intoxicating combination of historical action/adventure fiction, time travel and romance. There are lots of plot twists, as much action as a James Bond movie and as many characters as a Dickens novel. The characters are so vividly drawn that you feel you know them as intimate friends by the end of the book/series. The historical details are fascinating and life in 18th century Scotland is described in such exquisite detail that you feel as if you have visited Scotland.
However, be warned. These books are highly addictive! If you read this, you will be compelled to read the rest of the books in this series (to date, dragonfly in amber, voyager, drums of autumn, fiery cross, and breath of snow and ashes). I read all six of the series in six weeks (6000+ pages / 3 million words). My husband says I became obsessed with the books and read them to the exclusion of everything else including housework, friends, family and him. It became so bad that by the time I was nearing the end of the last book, (breath of snow and ashes), he was threatening to leave me unless I gave up reading.
Jamie Fraser is hero with whom no living man can compare. He is at once a fierce, courageous, protective warrior and yet a passionate, tender, sentimental and sensitive husband with a very engaging sense of humor to boot and you just can't get enough of him and his feisty, bold, smart wife Claire. Jamie's love for Claire is so selfless and unconditional that it is at times heartbreaking. I found the scene where he takes Claire back to the standing stones (thinking that she wants to return to her own time and that it's not safe for her to remain in the 17th century) so touching that I cried. He explains later that he prayed all the way up that hill; not for her to stay, because that wouldn't have been right. Instead, He prayed for the strength not to fall on his knees and beg her to stay.
Even my husband enjoyed the book. Although the ending of Outlander is disturbing and upsetting, it does not diminish the book in any wary --rather it adds to it. I've come to realize that the plot twists at the end of her books are a technique of Diana's--just when you think everything is fine and we're going to have a happily ever after, Diana pulls the rug out from under your feet and the characters experience some (often life threatening) disaster which they must surmount; sometimes it's more than one disaster in succession. It keeps you excitedly turning pages up to the very last page. I find Outlander the best of the series, then Voyager and then Breath of Snow and Ashes, although each one is a very good novel capable of standing on its own; none of them disappoint.
It is an insult to Diana Gabaldon to classify this as a "romance" novel just because it does have some romance in it among the other plot themes. I think historical/action adventure would be more accurate. It is so much more than others of the romance genre. I'm afraid she has ruined me for other authors. I picked up a couple of other novels to read while I'm waiting for Diana's next installment in the series (due in 2-3 years) and nothing else quite compares.
Oh, and BTW, it couldn't be any further removed from a 1980's style "bodice ripper", to which some inane reviewer compares it.
Write faster, Diana! Write Faster!
Helpful Score: 3
What an awesome story! My only complaint is that the time frame of events, being exceedingly quick, was irritating. Otherwise, it is an awesome historical novel about well-develop[ed characters.
Helpful Score: 3
This is my favorite romance of all time. It is very epic, definitely a time commitment, but so worth the read. I have to say at first I wasn't that impressed, but I pushed through and the book took off at about page 75, once she time traveled. Jamie is so strong, such a protector- I am forever reading highlander books because of him, I love this kind of man. The story had a lot of great sexy love scenes, turns and twists, jealousy even some funny scenes. It definitely choked me up and brought some tears. I plan to read the rest of the series, but I keep pushing it off. Hopefully 2011 I get the guts to continue.
Helpful Score: 3
This series is possibly the best I've ever read. I try to read them slowly in order to make them last longer. I am always so sad when I have finished the last page of the last book. I try to read the entire series over once a year. Thay are that special. The only other books that I have read that have come close are Sara Donoti's Into the Wilderness Series. I love Jamie and Claire and Nathaliel and Elizabeth equally. The similiarites are remarkable.
Helpful Score: 3
I had a very hard time putting this book down. I found myself sneaking into the kitchen or bathroom to read a few more pages throughout the day. If you love a good, historical romance novel and don't mind time travel, read this!
Helpful Score: 3
I am utterly shocked that this book/series has such a high rating! It's the reason why I was suckered in.
Long story short (pun intended) if you enjoy long winded, well written romance novels with lovable, well written characters that you can't help but NOT care about, gratuitous sex, rape, brutality, 50 pages of boring everyday life filled with passionate 2 page sequences of intense wonderful drama and a book that you will PROBABLY only read half of because the other half is you skipping through the stuff that just shouldn't be there (it's so pointless) like seriously, there were almost 10 pages of Claire cleaning out her supply cabinets at one point.
Diana Gabaldon, you should try learning about SUBTEXT.
At first I thought this book was BORING, I understand setting the scene but COME ON and get to the point! After I skipped the first 10th of the book I fell in love with the setting and the characters, it was lovely, and then came that thrumming boring lull of a whole lot of nothing. I am almost surprised that the author didn't write about how many times claire went to the bathroom for as much nothing was mentioned in this book.
All in all, It's not horrible, it's a very well written book but it almost feels like an unfinished, unrefined product. Dissappointing.
Long story short (pun intended) if you enjoy long winded, well written romance novels with lovable, well written characters that you can't help but NOT care about, gratuitous sex, rape, brutality, 50 pages of boring everyday life filled with passionate 2 page sequences of intense wonderful drama and a book that you will PROBABLY only read half of because the other half is you skipping through the stuff that just shouldn't be there (it's so pointless) like seriously, there were almost 10 pages of Claire cleaning out her supply cabinets at one point.
Diana Gabaldon, you should try learning about SUBTEXT.
At first I thought this book was BORING, I understand setting the scene but COME ON and get to the point! After I skipped the first 10th of the book I fell in love with the setting and the characters, it was lovely, and then came that thrumming boring lull of a whole lot of nothing. I am almost surprised that the author didn't write about how many times claire went to the bathroom for as much nothing was mentioned in this book.
All in all, It's not horrible, it's a very well written book but it almost feels like an unfinished, unrefined product. Dissappointing.
Helpful Score: 3
I don't know how she does it, but Diana Gabaldon holds me with her descriptions of time and place in a way I have NEVER been held. I am in love with Jamie - surely she had to know someone like him. His every move and emotion is so well described. Thank you Ms Gabaldon for making an old heart remember how sweet young love can be.
Helpful Score: 2
I loved this book. I read it in about 2 days. Has some steamy love scenes throughout the book.
Helpful Score: 2
I've read this book many times. It's one of my all-time favorites, and still my favorite in this series. One of the great things about it is that every time I read it I find something new that I missed before. I'll confess though that the very first time I read it, about ten pages into it, I thought ... I don't know if I'm going to like this. Famous last words, as they say.
This is definitely a love story, more so than the other books in the series. But to say that's all it is really sells the novel short. It's the most complex and compelling love story I've ever encountered. But as much as it's a love story, it's a piercing study of what it really means to be man, to be a husband, to be responsible for a family, to be willing to sacrifice everything to uphold vows you've made in the face of violence, hatred and injustice. It's a thoroughly grown-up story, and not for the faint of heart. That said, there's plenty of black humor and good fun, too.
Two downsides: Once you get into it, you won't be able to put it down for anything--crying children, dirty laundry, house fire, whatever. And, as other reviewers have mentioned, after you read this, you'll be spoiled and continually disappointed in less satistfying stories.
The seventh in this series--An Echo In The Bone--comes out later this year. If you start reading now, you MAY just have time to read them all before its 9/22/09 publication date.
This is definitely a love story, more so than the other books in the series. But to say that's all it is really sells the novel short. It's the most complex and compelling love story I've ever encountered. But as much as it's a love story, it's a piercing study of what it really means to be man, to be a husband, to be responsible for a family, to be willing to sacrifice everything to uphold vows you've made in the face of violence, hatred and injustice. It's a thoroughly grown-up story, and not for the faint of heart. That said, there's plenty of black humor and good fun, too.
Two downsides: Once you get into it, you won't be able to put it down for anything--crying children, dirty laundry, house fire, whatever. And, as other reviewers have mentioned, after you read this, you'll be spoiled and continually disappointed in less satistfying stories.
The seventh in this series--An Echo In The Bone--comes out later this year. If you start reading now, you MAY just have time to read them all before its 9/22/09 publication date.
I do not usually keep novels. I read them and then circulate them back. But, this is a keeper. The character development is well done, the backgroud is developed but not excessively. It does not read as a recipe-romance (e.g. "She looked into his beep blue eyes and found the love she had long been searching for...her long golden tresses rippled in the wind, etc.) None of that, but interestingly descriptive. Some of Gabaldon's chracters are even ugly but not evil. I find the premise of slipping through a cleft in a stone more than a little far fetched, but you have to start somewhere to get the story line and conflicts going. I recommend this book to anyone who has the patience to read a long novel. Lastly, I must say that any man in the flesh would likely not be able to meet the standard Jamie maintains ;-) yet both he and Claire are wonderfully believeable.
Helpful Score: 2
I began this book because I liked the concept: a nurse in post-war 1945 warps backwards in time to 1743 Scotland where she finds love and adventure in the Highlands...why did I finish the book? Most likely due to a sense of literary masochism (although I suffered through the S&M kind too in the latter pages--be warned!). The tragic irony is that in the beginning I had assumed the story would actually go somewhere, instead of looping around the same track multiple times, where nurse Claire and her kilt-clad lover gallivant, fight, make love, get captured, beaten, rescued (not necessarily in that order) over...and over...and over...
Jamie, the hot-blooded Scot, was probably the best developed character (relatively), although it may have been just the brogue. And he had the tendency to say the most inane things sometimes (a particular metaphor involving duckweed comes to mind...gag!). Claire is "feisty" and "spunky" (read: annoying), very erratic in behavior, and overall not very likable. At one point, potential intriguing material is wasted--Jamie must punish Claire, who has endangered the lives of his clansmen with her stupidity. This could have been a psychologically interesting scene, but instead it turns into a kiss & make-up/out session while the characters remain static. Another interesting time-traveling character is wasted later in the story, disposed of without answering some intriguing questions about the consequences of time travel. Issues remain simplistic and complexity, though tantalizingly dangled, is never pursued.
I could rant for pages about what I didn't like--long exposition sections containing important "clues" to the story, lots of superficial description of people/places, but nothing that develops the characters. And mistakes--picking fruit in April? Really? Am I the only one who noticed this? And finally, the bland language that served merely to record the action as if narrating a movie. But for all my griping, the book didn't really plunge into the abyss until around page 300 when the situation takes a really ridiculous turn, and the ending, smacking of religious-Freudian-voodoo did NOT do it for me at all. Blah.
Jamie, the hot-blooded Scot, was probably the best developed character (relatively), although it may have been just the brogue. And he had the tendency to say the most inane things sometimes (a particular metaphor involving duckweed comes to mind...gag!). Claire is "feisty" and "spunky" (read: annoying), very erratic in behavior, and overall not very likable. At one point, potential intriguing material is wasted--Jamie must punish Claire, who has endangered the lives of his clansmen with her stupidity. This could have been a psychologically interesting scene, but instead it turns into a kiss & make-up/out session while the characters remain static. Another interesting time-traveling character is wasted later in the story, disposed of without answering some intriguing questions about the consequences of time travel. Issues remain simplistic and complexity, though tantalizingly dangled, is never pursued.
I could rant for pages about what I didn't like--long exposition sections containing important "clues" to the story, lots of superficial description of people/places, but nothing that develops the characters. And mistakes--picking fruit in April? Really? Am I the only one who noticed this? And finally, the bland language that served merely to record the action as if narrating a movie. But for all my griping, the book didn't really plunge into the abyss until around page 300 when the situation takes a really ridiculous turn, and the ending, smacking of religious-Freudian-voodoo did NOT do it for me at all. Blah.
Helpful Score: 2
Excellent! There is a reason this book is a classic and a must read! Read it and think of the endless possibilities....
Helpful Score: 2
This is my absolute favorite book and series. No matter how many times I read this series I fall more and more in love with the characters. You know its a good book when you feel like you're living WITH the characters and picking up their vernacular. I find myself using more and more Scottish slang in my every day conversation. The rich detail, the imaginative story line, the passion between Jamie and Claire, and the psychological progression of all the characters is very well done. I can never put the book down when I begin reading it, even though I know what's going to happen. This is a must read.
Helpful Score: 2
My mother mailed me the first few books of this series a few years ago because she loved them so much. They are incredibly addictive to read. The character and story development are excellent. Even though a lot of people say these are "romance" novels, there is just so much more to this book similar to how there was more to the series of The Clan of the Cave Bear. Romance is a rather part of the entire story arc for the series, but don't let that detour you from reading them. Diana Gabaldon has done a wonderful job of capturing the historical era that her heroine ends up getting transported to. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good escape from everyday life.
Helpful Score: 2
I loved this book! It's a great summer/beach read with a wonderful love story, great action and funny parts. It is also very well written. I am planning on reading all of the sequels now. My bookclub picked it, and it was loved by all.
Helpful Score: 2
I love this book - although it is not GREAT literature - and you must suspend disbelief frequently.... it is a lovely read that keeps you on the edge of your couch and wanting more. One of her book jackets says, "Lots of action, lots of sex..." and this is right - but done right - it's a fun read - I love this series.
Helpful Score: 2
Better-than-average time travel romance as an English woman finds herself transported from 1946 England to Scotland in the days leading up to the Jacobite Rebellion. Part 1 of a series.
Helpful Score: 2
Loved it. Don't knwo why you will only let me give it 4 1/2 stars. It was definitely a 5 star book to me. Th etwo main characters were great & the time travel was done in a very believable way.
Helpful Score: 2
Completely engaging, romantic adventure! I love historical fiction, and usually pick up books where the main character is someone of historical significance. I also am a sci-fi fan. This book was recommended to me on both counts, and I wasn't disappointed, though the only sci fi/fantasy aspect of this book is an instance of time travel. The steaminess of the romantic aspects took me off guard, but I really liked it. Now I wonder if I might also love romance novels... hmm. That said, this was still so much more. Claire was written well, she's an easy protagonist to hop along with for the ride. This book also answers the question of: how can I believably put a smart, capable female protagonist into the 18th century? Time travel! You've found this book likely because someone recommended it, now get it, and read it! You won't regret it!
hands down the best book I have ever read!!!!! I could not get enough!!! really, you have got to read this book!
Helpful Score: 2
This is book one of a six (so far) book series. I don't usually like time travel stories, but I loved this one! It's in my "read again" pile.
Helpful Score: 2
I ordered this book because I read reviews on several sites saying what a wonderful series it is. I was wary of the size at first lol I have 5 children and typically pick a book I can hold one handed and read thru very quickly. I was mildly involved in the first couple of chapters but I have to say once Claire got to Jamie I was hooked. Cant wait to move on to the rest of the series and find out what happens. Every woman needs a Jamie. It wasnt all romance either, the descriptions in the book and the struggles of the time were very well written.
Helpful Score: 2
a hisorical story going from1945 back to 1743
Helpful Score: 2
This was a wonderful read! It took me a little while to get into the story, but then I ended up getting swept away by the adventure. It's a fun, romantic, historical fiction account of life in Scottish highlands. The lead character accidentally steps through a portal to a time 200 years in the past. I look forward to reading the other novels in this series.
Everyone told me I'd love this book, but it really didn't do anything for me. Fight, almost get raped, and then have sex with her highlander husband. Repeat ad nauseum. The "fantasy" part of it was negligible, and really kind of gimmicky.
Helpful Score: 2
Incredible book. I have never said that in a review before. I was as taken in by Gabaldon's rich descriptions of everything from the Scottish countryside to the relationship between Claire and Jamie. The ending was horrific and I was originally offended that Gabaldon could hurt so badly a character I had come to care for. Then I relaized that it gave the story credibility beyond a detailed romance novel.
Helpful Score: 2
Fantastic read. I know now why there are so many faithful fans of this series. I can't wait to move on to the next one!
Helpful Score: 2
When I first read the description, I thought I wouldn't like this series. I have never been more wrong. I love that most of it is written in first person. I am in love with the characters and her writing style. I can't put them down...
Helpful Score: 2
This is my favorite book of all time. What more can I say.
Helpful Score: 2
Author Gabaldon tips her hat to the ghost of Walter Scott and proves that the Scotland-based epic historical novel is alive and well in the 21st century. This is a gorgeous, detailed book that also manages to keep up a good pace. It's full of action, and not sparing with violence, particularly towards the end. It pulls you in immediately, with the witty voice of its tough, resourceful, peppery, highly capable first-person narrator, Claire. (If you're prone to be impatient with the more helpless romance heroines, this could be the book for you.) Claire is an army nurse, who's just come through the hell of World War II, and she's taking a second honeymoon, trying to reconnect with her husband, an academic historian named Frank (who I wish were a little better-developed in this first book in a multiple-volume love triangle). The couple land up in Scotland, reseaching Frank's ancestors, and also viewing the gorgeous countryside, and in particular, an ancient arrangement of stones, sort of like Stonehenge. As for the third point on the triangle, the 18th century Scotsman, Jamie, he's about as good as it gets in romantic heroes. I found this thick book spell-binding, and I'm not easy: I'm only fond of time-traveling romances when they're extremely well done, since the ultimate conflict of choosing which world you'll live in is so predictable. This is also a well-written book, full of sensory details. You can feel the fog on your cheeks and practically smell the trees in the outdoor scenes. (And P.S., if you don't use the "r" word (romance), and act really low-keyed about the love triangle, you can even get men to read this book. Friends report success with it in book clubs with mixed memberships, as well as with loaning it to older sons and husbands.)
Helpful Score: 2
This is one of the best series I have read. When first recomended the book I didn't think I would like it, but after 1 chapter I couldn't put it down. Constant action-a real page turner. Highly recommend this series.
Helpful Score: 2
I loved historical romances when I was a teen, but as I took more and more literature classes in college, the writing in romances seemed trite in comparison. Also, after reading romances for a few years, the plots became very predictable. Outlander, however, really surprised me. It avoids predictable pairings (virgin meets sexually experienced older man), and the writing itself is very good. A co-worker convinced me to try this, and I'm really glad I did. The world in this book is a world you can lose yourself in.
Helpful Score: 2
The first book in a fabulous series. It makes you laugh and cry, and really makes you wish you were in Scotland. Instantly fell inlove with Jamie Fraser. I've told everyone I know to read this series, and they've loved it too. And if I'm not mistaken, Jamie and Claire are mentioned in "The Time Traveler's Wife".
Helpful Score: 2
These books stole my heart. I read as slowly as possible near the end becasue I don't want them to end. I truly believe that there are a community of devoted readers who love Jamie and Claire as their own. Diana Gabaldon: KOKO
Helpful Score: 2
This book has everything.I couldn't put it down. Action,drama,love,sex,good till the last page.
Helpful Score: 1
Sometimes I tend to read fast and forget to enjoy the story. I am also not a big fan of romance novels. This book was a departure for me but I enjoyed it a great deal. I read it with the condition that I would only order the next book in the series if I liked this one. The character development was good and it was refreshing for someone to want to do the right thing and to actually think about what that might be. This book is long enough I had enough time to enjoy it and so I am looking forward to the sequels. The historical details & description of living conditions all brought a reality to the book that made it even more enjoyable. The story also didn't take itself "too seriously". I won't comment on some of the humor I found in the tale as you need to come across it and enjoy it fresh.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a fabulous book. Claire ends up going back in time...accidently and meets up with Jamie a Scot. It is a great story and an unbelievably good book.
Helpful Score: 1
When an acquaintance first told me about this book, I didn't think I would like it or that it would be believable as I'm not a sci/fi person either. Boy, was I wrong. I, too, read the entire series in a couple of weeks and could not put it down. It has everything...romance, adventure, gore, history, suspense. I've never read anything quite like it before or since.
Helpful Score: 1
Read this one, then follow up with "Voyager." Unusual and interesting.
Helpful Score: 1
Best book ever! I try to get everyone I know to read this one! Don't know how anyone could ever part with it....
Helpful Score: 1
I am not a fan of time travel but after reading this book I was hooked on the series! I highly recommend this book. It was one of the best books I have ever read.
Where to begin...this book is the most amazing journey I have ever been on. Heartwarming, totaly Scotland. This book is the first in a series that you seriously cannot put down. It takes place in 1945 and 1743. The main character, Claire, time travels between the two times. What happens next is an amazing adventure that takes Claire on a wild, romantic ride through perilous times. Claire meets Jamie, her soul mate. You become so embroiled in the lives of these characters you forget you are not actually there.
When I pick up one of these books all else falls away and I am truly transported to another time and place.
When I pick up one of these books all else falls away and I am truly transported to another time and place.
Helpful Score: 1
Book 1 in the Outlander series. Time-travel romance. Couldn't put it down.
A wonderful series!
Helpful Score: 1
Engrossing, intriguing, emotional story, though one that is not for everyone. It is violent, with scenes of physical torture, rape, war, and just the brutal life of the 18th century. It is also tender, touching and wildly romantic. Jamie Fraser is a hero for the ages!
Helpful Score: 1
Yes, I know this is a best-seller, and I know that it gets very high reviews. But I have to admit that I was disturbed by the whole book and especially the violence. Instead of reading the whole series, I had absolutely no desire to learn what happened further with these characters.
Wow. Amazing. Now I get it, what all the hype is about. I think I am in love with Jamie Fraser. I was distraught (really) about half way through at the thought of Claire leaving him behind to return to the present, which I thought was inevitable. And when she was pushed out of Wentworth only to have to deal with wolves before she could even consider saving Jamie, I was near frantic.
My profile says that I love nothing more than a great romance, one that grabs a hold of you and doesn't let go. This one delivers! I haven't been this emotionally tied to a book in a long time - if ever. This is definitely one that you will want to read again and again. I picked this up at a second hand store and cannot imagine who in their right mind would give this book up.
My profile says that I love nothing more than a great romance, one that grabs a hold of you and doesn't let go. This one delivers! I haven't been this emotionally tied to a book in a long time - if ever. This is definitely one that you will want to read again and again. I picked this up at a second hand store and cannot imagine who in their right mind would give this book up.
Helpful Score: 1
This Diana Gabaldon series, starting with Outlander is the best I've ever read!! So much detail and intricate plots!! I've read the whole series about 5 times!!! If you like historical romance and time travel you will love this series as much as I do!!
Helpful Score: 1
First in a series of awesome historical science fiction bodice rippers.
Helpful Score: 1
Definitely in a class by itself. I've always been a fan of time travel and this is one of the best. The subsequent books in this series, while excellent in their own right, just never quite measure up to it in my opinion.
Helpful Score: 1
I have to say that for me, this book started out really slow. I almost put it down and didn't continue reading. Wow! I am SO glad I continued reading. Once the real story started, it was obvious why the beginning had to be so detailed. I loved this book and can't wait to read more by this author!!
Helpful Score: 1
I don't think that I have ever read any other book written as well as this one. I must say that I am completely impressed. Gabaldon does an absolutely fabulous job at drawing her reader into this story. Morally, I disagree with most of the content, but I cannot help but give this book an outstanding review simply due to the craft of the writing.
Usually, I very much dislike stories written in the first person perspective simply because they make feel like I was cheated out of the 'rest of the story'. We do read fiction, after all to escape real life and being at least somewhat all knowing is nice at times. :o) This book however, does not lack anything. The first 3 chapters set the stage and then after that, I hope you set aside lots of time, because you won't be able to put it down. The characters were so real, I could feel their pain and share their triumphs.
I haven't read any other books by Gabaldon, but honestly I don't think that she could ever top this one.
Amazing writing. Clever story. Well worth the read even if you don't like this genre of book. A job well done!
Usually, I very much dislike stories written in the first person perspective simply because they make feel like I was cheated out of the 'rest of the story'. We do read fiction, after all to escape real life and being at least somewhat all knowing is nice at times. :o) This book however, does not lack anything. The first 3 chapters set the stage and then after that, I hope you set aside lots of time, because you won't be able to put it down. The characters were so real, I could feel their pain and share their triumphs.
I haven't read any other books by Gabaldon, but honestly I don't think that she could ever top this one.
Amazing writing. Clever story. Well worth the read even if you don't like this genre of book. A job well done!
Helpful Score: 1
excellent book. kept me in suspense. I couldn't put the book down. Made me feel like I was really in the story. I love that.
Helpful Score: 1
I love time travel book and this is one of the best!
Helpful Score: 1
The Outlander series received rave reviews from a few friends of mine so I decided to give the first book in the series a shot. While I wasn't blown away, I found it to be an enjoyable read. I really liked the theme of the book and found some of the historical information fascinating. The love scenes fell a little flat for me and I started to feel bothered by Gabaldon's near obsession with sadomasochism, a theme that popped up several times in the book, particularly near the end. The way it was presented really bothered me, particularly at the end of the book, where I found myself feeling almost sick to my stomach with tension. Despite my strong emotional reaction to this element of the book and it's ending, it did draw me in. It took me nearly 2/3rds of the way through the book to get there but when I got to the last 250 pages, I could not put it down. I'll be keeping up with the series.
Helpful Score: 1
I wish I could remember who recommended this book to me in the first place, because I owe them a huge thanks (or I should curse them for keeping me up at night). While I absolutely loved the characters (hubba hubba Jamie) and the overall story, it is l-o-n-g and could have done without some of the scenes. There's just too much distress and rescuing going on along with a tad too much graphic sex. All that being said, I was still up till the wee hours reading it and cannot wait for book 2 to arrive.
Helpful Score: 1
A must read!
Amazing book!
Helpful Score: 1
I first read Outlander about five years ago upon the recommendation of a good friend. It didnt disappoint the first time, and Im happy to say it was even better this go around. The characters I already quite adore come more to life as I became reacquainted with them, making an even more beautiful story than I remembered.
The first time I read this novel, I found myself in a similar position to Claire, wondering if and when she would get back to 1945. I was on edge, waiting with anticipation to see how shed finally manage to make it to her destination.
To read the rest of my review, please visit my blog.
The first time I read this novel, I found myself in a similar position to Claire, wondering if and when she would get back to 1945. I was on edge, waiting with anticipation to see how shed finally manage to make it to her destination.
To read the rest of my review, please visit my blog.
Helpful Score: 1
Loved it!
Helpful Score: 1
The author makes you believe that it's possible to go in time with this wonderful account which also reflects her great knowledge of Scotland in the 1700's. She does a great job with her character who must try to use her knowledge of life in the 1940's to survive in the 1700's without revealing that she's from another time!
I could not put down this book. It swept me away to 1700 Scotland. I loved Claire and Jamie.
Helpful Score: 1
One of the best books ever! The author writes a spellbinding tale that will keep you flipping pages late into the night. Time travel, adventure, action, killer romance, lush landscapes, Scottish history, castles, richly developed characters and more action. You won't want it to end. Thank goodness there are sequels!!
Helpful Score: 1
A wondrfully romantic novel about time travel to eighteenth century Scotland. A combat nurse from 1945 is torn between love for her husband back in the present and Jamie Fraser, the Scottish Laird and warrior. A little long, but I loved the story and the characters Claire and Jamie.
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first book in a very addictive series. I don't normally like books written as series-the subsequent books always fail to deliver. Not so with this group of novels. The author Diana Gabaldon is a New York Times best selling author and her story actually improves with each new book. This is a tale of a woman living in two centuries. An ancient stone in the British Isles acts as a time machine to transport her into Scotland at a time when it is revenged by raiding clans and torn apart by war. An absorbing story of the land and lore of Scotland that left me obsessively searching the bookstores for the next novel in the series: Dragonfly in Amber. These are BIG novels, nearly 1000 pages of hard to put down reading!
Helpful Score: 1
As seen on http://theinfamousj.livejournal.com/470707.html
I am torn between giving this book 1 star (didn't like it) and 2 stars (it was okay) because it was clearly not my taste, but it also was readable by the fact that I did, in fact, finish it. Because of that, I'm going with two stars.
Outlander tells the tale of how ex-WWII combat nurse Claire Randall gets sucked back in time using the druid magic of a standing stone circle, where she is promptly forced to become the bride of a very handsome, very sexually desirable, and very well-to-do Scottish guy. Not-at-all-gentle sex, history, bigamy, rape of a male, and herb lore follow.
As I said, not a fan. Likely because I'm not a fan of descriptions of rough sex, I am not a fan of domestic violence, and I am also not a fan of history. I will not be reading the second book in this series.
I am torn between giving this book 1 star (didn't like it) and 2 stars (it was okay) because it was clearly not my taste, but it also was readable by the fact that I did, in fact, finish it. Because of that, I'm going with two stars.
Outlander tells the tale of how ex-WWII combat nurse Claire Randall gets sucked back in time using the druid magic of a standing stone circle, where she is promptly forced to become the bride of a very handsome, very sexually desirable, and very well-to-do Scottish guy. Not-at-all-gentle sex, history, bigamy, rape of a male, and herb lore follow.
As I said, not a fan. Likely because I'm not a fan of descriptions of rough sex, I am not a fan of domestic violence, and I am also not a fan of history. I will not be reading the second book in this series.
Helpful Score: 1
I am hooked
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of my favorite books ever! It's a mix of romance, time travel, action/adventure and historical fiction. While you'll find it in the romance section of the bookstore, don't let that turn you off ... it is NOT your typical romance novel. I even know guys who love this series! Be forewarned: There some violent and some -very- steamy scenes.
Helpful Score: 1
An excellant book...no other way to state it. I am not a reader of romance novels, neither am I a reader of fantasy (or science fiction). But this book has elements of both in it, and I loved it. Before I read it the first time, I asked what it was about of the person who recommended it to me. She said it was sort of a romance novel and sort of a book about time travel, and I scoffed at reading it...this person pressed me to read it "you will love it" was the statement that was said to me...and I did. I have read the book twice, listened to it twice on audio, and would love to have a copy of the unabridged version in my own collection....an Excellant book. It is a story of a woman who travels back in time 200 years and falls in love, but Oh so much more than that. You must read this.
Helpful Score: 1
By far one of the most imaginative fantasy-meets-romance series I've read. Great characters, wonderful plot, and credibly researched historical information.
I couldn't get into it! boring and long.
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting read. I enjoyed this book, but thought it was a bit too long.
Helpful Score: 1
Book 1 in the series that made me fall in love with Claire and Jamie, and crave more, more, more. I have the first six of the series and am anxiously awaiting the next one! These books can't be classified under one category - they're historical fiction, romance, with a smidge of science fiction. Claire, a nurse from the second world war, travels with her husband to Scotland. While there, she visits the standing stones of Craig na Dun, and travels back in time to 1743. This isn't normally my type of book. I first picked up "Voyager" (3rd in the series), because it was a huge thick book which I'm drawn to, noticed it said trilogy and assumed all three books were in the same volume because of the thickness. I realized my mistake when I got home. That was one of the best mistakes I've ever made, because otherwise I would have missed six of the best books I've ever read. If you like getting lost in big thick character-driven books, you won't go wrong with this series.
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book, one of my all time favorites. The entire series is amazing, though the first one may be my favorite.
Helpful Score: 1
This book was so highly recommend on this website as well as others that I couldn't wait to read it. Unfortunately, I just couldn't get into it. I thought it was WAY longer than it needed to be and it just dragged on & on. I really wanted to like it & was hoping that it would pick up but it just didn't. I was very disappointed. I may pick up the 2nd book in the series just to see if that one's any better.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book! I think this is a great romance novel! Its a great story and I found myself thinking of Claire and Jamie as real people. When Jamie talked to Claire about their relationship, I would get butterflies in my stomach. This book has a dfferent tempo then most of the regular romance novels. Its like you are in the story with them and not just reading a book. And yes, I know this is fiction!
Helpful Score: 1
Outlander shouldn't really be classified as "romance." There is romance in it, but it defies genres. I'm almost 60 & I have read this series at least twice. I turned my doctor onto it & months later she was still hooked on the series.
I DON'T read romance novels! This is a little bit of everything: time travel, general fiction, thriller, SF, & some romance. It's my favorite book of my favorite series of all time. And I've read thousands of books in my life in most genres. Please don't miss out on this! You won't be sorry & don't give up before Claire ends up back in time. That's the REAL story.
I DON'T read romance novels! This is a little bit of everything: time travel, general fiction, thriller, SF, & some romance. It's my favorite book of my favorite series of all time. And I've read thousands of books in my life in most genres. Please don't miss out on this! You won't be sorry & don't give up before Claire ends up back in time. That's the REAL story.
Helpful Score: 1
This is my all time favorite series of books! If you can make it through the first 100 pages of this book, which in MHO were a tad slow, you won't be disappointed. Ms. Gabaldon's characters are so well developed and the story so engaging that I found myself forgetting they weren't real people. I had to put the book down and walk away on more than one occasion because I was so annoyed with Claire or Jamie!
The story will captivate you and the history that comes to life in the pages of this book (as well as all subsequent books in the series) is better than any college course I ever took.
One note, though: These books have to be read in order. I imagine it would be nearly impossible to make sense of anything if you started with "Dragonfly In Amber" or any later book.
The story will captivate you and the history that comes to life in the pages of this book (as well as all subsequent books in the series) is better than any college course I ever took.
One note, though: These books have to be read in order. I imagine it would be nearly impossible to make sense of anything if you started with "Dragonfly In Amber" or any later book.
Helpful Score: 1
I had first heard about this book on a book club group so I decided to check it out. I have to admit I almost quit reading it as it was really slow starting. But I kept on going on it and so glad I did. Once the story got moving it was impossible to put the book down. The story line between Claire and Jamie is just addicting. It has quickly become one of my favorite books.
Helpful Score: 1
Shockingly fast read. I was done with a thousand pages before I knew it and definitely craved more.
I know this is not everyone's cup of tea since there is some violence towards women (and even more towards men) but if you are not turned off by that then I truly believe this is a great novel and you should read it.
And then, there's 5 more to read! I have already read a couple of the other books but it all starts here, and it is a wild and fantastical ride.
I know this is not everyone's cup of tea since there is some violence towards women (and even more towards men) but if you are not turned off by that then I truly believe this is a great novel and you should read it.
And then, there's 5 more to read! I have already read a couple of the other books but it all starts here, and it is a wild and fantastical ride.
Very enjoyable book, a well written lighthearted read. This is a book that's very hard to classify, as it can be considered part of several generes. It includes elements of historic fiction, romance and a touch of fantasy.
Helpful Score: 1
Great first book of the series. This is a romance/history book that kept me up until all hours. Also got me hooked on the series!
Helpful Score: 1
LOVED this book!
Helpful Score: 1
I'm probably the umpteenth million person to say how wonderful Outlander and all things Diana Gabaldon are, so I won't go into any long summaries of the story. Instead, I'll just share some of the many things I love about Diana and the Outlander (and Lord John) series: First, I love her sparkling wit. Diana will come out with these one-liners that have me literally gasping for air, I'm laughing so hard. Sometimes they are snarky or sarcastic (but not in a mean way) and sometimes they are just plain FUNNY. She always does it in a way that is character-appropriate. Second, I love how she sets the stage brilliantly...I always have a clear mental picture. But at the same time, even though the books are close to 1,000 pages, I never feel like she's just droning on about each little detail. It's as if she just transports me there. I love living in Claire & Jamie's world. Third, I just love that her characters are PEOPLE. Flaws, quirks and all. Ok, well, Jamie is a bit larger than life, and a man I'd like to have (wouldn't all Diana's female readers want a Jamie for themselves???) but other than that, you feel like these are real people, with real emotions & real problems. At the same time, Diana never psychoanalyzes or psychobabbles. She just lets you get to know the characters for who they are. Fourth, following from this, is that the romance is romantic without descending into one steamy sex scene after another. Yes, the sex scenes that are in Outlander (book and series) are there, and they are HOT, but the books are so much more than the sex. Fifth, I love how the books defy description: is it historical fiction? romance? adventure? fantasy/SF/time travel? Mystery? Well...all of the above. Diana is just so skilled at telling stories of all types. She refuses to be bound by conventions that say "this type of book should be this so I am going to be safe and follow the formula." Nope, not Diana. And so the result is a truly unique book that has you staying up till all hours turning the pages. I've literally read Outlander about 6 times, and each time I find something new, unique and different. She's truly a master author. Take a chance - you won't be sorry. There's a reason so many millions of readers adore Diana.
Helpful Score: 1
A very, very good read
Helpful Score: 1
This book was SO much better than any romance novel I've ever read. Really, it probably is more accurate to call it historic fiction than romance, because it's 700+ pages of meticulously researched details. It's worth the time.
Helpful Score: 1
What a great story! This is the first book in the Outlander series and I will definitely be reading more. I dont typically go for a time travel book, so I will say this was a pleasant surprise. The book is about Claire, a nurse during World War II who travels back in time 200 years through the rocks of a stone henge in the highlands of Scotland. Here she meets a bonny Scot named Jamie Fraser in the year 1743.
With Claires knowledge of modern medicine and Jamies outlaw status with the English occupiers of the land, the two have many adventures in Scotland. The story is marvelously told and you will be engrossed with all of the characters, particularly the hero Jamie. Even though the book is 600 pages long, you wont want to leave all these Scottish characters behind. Fortunately there are more books in the series.
This book is more historical fiction than it is fantasy/time travel and there is great detail about life in the Scottish highlands in the 18th century. Life in these times was not all pleasant and easy and there is extreme and graphic violence and cruelty in this story, but there is also love and beauty and an uplifting story. My only complaint with the book was the focus on romance and sex scenes. I am biased because I do not like any drivel that is reminiscent of a Harlequin romance novel and this book went there enough to be detraction from an otherwise fantastic tale.
With Claires knowledge of modern medicine and Jamies outlaw status with the English occupiers of the land, the two have many adventures in Scotland. The story is marvelously told and you will be engrossed with all of the characters, particularly the hero Jamie. Even though the book is 600 pages long, you wont want to leave all these Scottish characters behind. Fortunately there are more books in the series.
This book is more historical fiction than it is fantasy/time travel and there is great detail about life in the Scottish highlands in the 18th century. Life in these times was not all pleasant and easy and there is extreme and graphic violence and cruelty in this story, but there is also love and beauty and an uplifting story. My only complaint with the book was the focus on romance and sex scenes. I am biased because I do not like any drivel that is reminiscent of a Harlequin romance novel and this book went there enough to be detraction from an otherwise fantastic tale.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of the best books I have ever read. The mixture of history, great love story, adventure...I wish I could read it for the first time again.
Helpful Score: 1
Seriously. This is one of the best series I've read, and I have a broad range of interests. Jamie is a demi-god, and Clair is one tough broad. She (and they) get better in each book, as you meet new characters and enjoy many adventures with these time travelers. Warning: if you read this really, really, really long book, you will be hooked, because each book gets better. This is romance for the thinking (and emotive) woman:)
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful read! Diana is my favorite author as she pulls you in and makes you feel as if you are there in the saga with Jamie, Claire, and the others. I've read the entire series and am waiting for the next to be released this year. I also plan to read it again sometime in the future. My favorite books of all time!
Helpful Score: 1
This is my all-time favorite book! I have yet to read another book or a series that touches my heart as much. I had this book for a long while without reading it. I have never been that big of a fan of time-travel, and the description on the back cover wasn't enough to entice me, so I kept putting it aside. However, once I picked it up, that was it! Not only is the story in this book (series) amazing and touches your soul, but the writing, dialogue and language usage is absolutely beautiful. Ms. Gabaldon does a wonderful job of letting you see into the hearts of her characters. And on a more earthy level, if Jamie Fraser isn't the most delicious and amazing hero you have ever read about, I will eat this review! He is the epitome of a REAL man, Scottish highlander and all that, complete with faults. However, it is his sensitivity and his love for Claire (and anything he will do because of that love), that makes him so tasty. These books (the whole series) are not written like your typical flowery romance where the hero is your typical alpha, and the heroine either falls at his feet or fights him every step of the way. You feel that Jaime and Claire have a real relationship with real problems and feelings (many that you may relate to from your own relationships) and traverse their difficulties together. All the character interactions in these books are more realistic than in most typical romances and you feel for the secondary characters as well as the main ones. Ms. Gabaldon is a true artist!
I read this entire series, then wanted to start again. However, with so many books on my TBR list, I opted for listening to the audio books of these while in the car. The audio books are just as fantastic as the books as Davina Porter does an amazing job of bringing the characters to life. If you do the audio books, make sure you get the unabridged versions. You don't want to miss anything!
I read this entire series, then wanted to start again. However, with so many books on my TBR list, I opted for listening to the audio books of these while in the car. The audio books are just as fantastic as the books as Davina Porter does an amazing job of bringing the characters to life. If you do the audio books, make sure you get the unabridged versions. You don't want to miss anything!
Helpful Score: 1
Once you read this, be prepared to read the rest of the series - you won't be able to stop.
Helpful Score: 1
TREMENDOUS! I didn't think I would like this book but I can't read the following books fast enough. If you like historical fiction at all, give this a chance. The time travel piece doesn't get into science fiction the way I thought it would. Definitely a keeper for me.
Helpful Score: 1
my favorite guilty pleasure
Helpful Score: 1
very fast paced love/adventure story. I was never bored reading this VERY long book. will make you want to read the next installment in this series (dragonfly in amber) as soon as you finish it!
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this book, it has a lot of depth and the characters are interesting. The language is a bit hard sometimes however, which is why I did not give it 5 stars.
Helpful Score: 1
I bought this via kindle and I loved this book! the characters are so richly written..I felt myself taken back in time and it was like I was there with them... I just got book 2 and cant wait to read it... this is a very well written book and she really did her research! I feel I know so much more of what it was like to live in Scotland back then... I read alot of vampire romance, horror and fantasy and even though this isnt much fantasy and more historical romance I loved it.. I cant say enough... read this book!
Helpful Score: 1
The story was intriguing, including plenty of action. Writing was excellent.
Helpful Score: 1
While reading this book, it was the only thing on my mind. I have never felt so consumed by a book before.
Helpful Score: 1
This is an exceptional book. Highly recommend this to anybody who enjoys history, adventure and romance!
The first book I have ever read that I felt like I just wanted to turn back to page 1 and re-read. I know I will read this several more times in my life. I am only going to allow myself to read each of the subsequent books every six months or so, so that I can draw the series out for myself a few years. It's THAT good. I listed my used PBS copy, because I am going to buy a pristine paperback to keep on shelf just for myself to keep going back to.... can't say enough good things. I'm asking my husband for the whole series for Christmas.
Helpful Score: 1
I'll admit, I was mislead by the reviews. So many people labeled this book as the best romance book ever. I'm still trying to shake some of its disturbing images from my head. I won't do a recap of the book because it's already been done enough. I will say that some of the reviews that bashed the book about the amount of sex or Jamie beating Claire did not bother me while reading the book. No man should ever hit a woman, but that was how things were done back then and he also talked to her about the danger she put herself and others in before hand. He spanked her like you would a child. As for the amount of sex, it was more implying that they had sex, not vivid descriptions of sex. That is not the same thing. My problems with the book was that I felt too much time was devoted on threads that went no where. Why waste 10 pages on a person or issue that will never be mentioned again??? At one point, I just started skimming. My main issue with this book was the torture that the hero Jamie had to go through. I'm sorry, but there is NOTHING romantic about a man trading himself sexually to the villain for his wife's freedom. And then for the ordeal to be described???? Too much.
Helpful Score: 1
Oh, I did love this book...one of the best time travels I've ever read.
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent read. Keeps you interested to the point you forget the time. I can understand why is is becoming and HBO series this summer.
Helpful Score: 1
I have been wanting to read this book for a long time so was looking forward to it. However, I had a really hard time getting into it for some reason. I don't know why. It took me half way through before I was drawn in and this is a long book. After that point I really enjoyed it and am wanting to read the sequels. Having said that I would still recommend reading Outlander.
Helpful Score: 1
I LOVE this series and especially this book. Claire is hilarious and tough. Jamie is the hottest fictional character I have had the pleasure to read about. (It's been a long time since I've had a little crush on a character in a book, but Jamie does it for me!)
Helpful Score: 1
I had always assumed this was just a romance novel, but there really isn't one genre this book fits into. It really does have everything in it. I was a little worried it would just blabber on about nothing (like so many other large books), but it pretty much gets right to the point. I loved all the politics in it. There are a few really disturbing parts in it. I highly recommend this one.
Helpful Score: 1
The first book in Diana Gabaldon's Outlander story sets the pace for the rest of the story. Suspenseful, romantic and THOROUGHLY enjoyable, readers will be dying to get their hands on the rest of the series!
Helpful Score: 1
Many years ago, a friend suggested this book to me. I read the back cover and decided that I just couldn't deal with a time traveler - the premise of the book just seemed too contrived so I gave her back her book. Several months ago, I found myself in a remote part of Mexico without a book to read. The hotel's lending library had a much discolored and used copy of Voyager. I started reading it and was hooked! When I returned to the states, I had to start the series at the beginning.
To me, the Outlander series is just so much fun and a great story. The historical context is wonderful especially as it is filtered through Claire's 20th century sensibilities. If you're a history buff, you'll enjoy all the little tidbits that Ms. Galbadon weaves into her story. She didn't have to put so much in - and some will fault her for doing so - but I find they add so much to my enjoyment of the story. I grow weary, sometimes, of all the love scenes but you can skim over what you will.
Recently, I found audio tapes of the book in my library. I had to check them out because I realized that I didn't know how the Scottish/Gaelic words should sound. What a treat to hear Jamie say "mo duinne" or how "Murtagh" is supposed to be pronounced. Hearing the Gaelic words really added a dimension to my enjoyment!
To me, the Outlander series is just so much fun and a great story. The historical context is wonderful especially as it is filtered through Claire's 20th century sensibilities. If you're a history buff, you'll enjoy all the little tidbits that Ms. Galbadon weaves into her story. She didn't have to put so much in - and some will fault her for doing so - but I find they add so much to my enjoyment of the story. I grow weary, sometimes, of all the love scenes but you can skim over what you will.
Recently, I found audio tapes of the book in my library. I had to check them out because I realized that I didn't know how the Scottish/Gaelic words should sound. What a treat to hear Jamie say "mo duinne" or how "Murtagh" is supposed to be pronounced. Hearing the Gaelic words really added a dimension to my enjoyment!
Love the outlander series. Unexpected twist of time travel and history. Draws you in to the characters as if you know them personally.
This is not just another boring romance novel!
Excellent book and marvelous series! I have read them all and truly count this book as one of my all-time top 5!!! Characters are very richly done and the storyline draws you in and makes you yearn for the next installment. I believe the last of the series is due out sometime soon.
This is the best series I have ever read! I can't decide whether it is the story, the characters, the history, the romance, or what, but I am totally hooked on this series. I hope there are many more books to come.
I had a very hard time getting into this book, and almost didn't continue. (what a loss that would've been!) As someone else said, once she steps through those stones, things pick up dramatically, and the story gets rolling. If you can suffer through the first 200 pages, you won't regret it.
Anyone who enjoys historical fiction/romance (i.e. The Other Boleyn Girl) will be hard pressed to put this book down. This is a sweeping, beautiful story set in 18th century Scotland, with a little time travel thrown in for good measure. Keep a dictionary (or Wikipedia) handy to follow the numerous Scottish terms (like "sporran"). Very enjoyable read!
I love this book,in fact all the books in this series.
Because they were originally published years apart,I am rereading them all to get a better understanding of the storyline.
Because they were originally published years apart,I am rereading them all to get a better understanding of the storyline.
Outlander was my favorite series for a long while. I just wanted to mention that toward the middle of the book, a lot of raunchy sex starts to happen. Apparently, this book started off as a more erotic novel but then was toned down for the U.S. The middle is the only part that I was a little sick of. I was like, "Alright already! You can't keep your hands off eachother. We get it!!" Other than that, it is awesome. I love the characters, especially Jamie. Claire is so normal, she's endearing. She's not the typical romance novel woman that everybody is in love with. She's just a regular woman like you and me. The historical part is very interesting. I swear, you won't want to put it down.
This was the never ending story. It was so LOOOONG! I just couldn't wait to be done with it. I felt it was a rather sappy romance. I know everyone loves this series so I thought I would give it a try. There were moments that were somewhat fun but the book could have been about a third of the length. I probably could have read it quicker by just reading every third sentence and gotten the same results. I enjoyed reading about the Scottish highlands but all the drama of this kidnapping, that fight, this person almost dying, that person and their dark secrets...It was really all just to OUTLANDish for me. I already have the second in the series but it will be awhile before I give it a whirl. I felt that reading this book was more of a chore than a pleasure.
Great mix of history, romance, and fantasy. Terrific use of humor (loved Claire & Jamie's wedding/wedding night) but also a revealing look at darker subjects. First in the series and yes, it is a little long, but worth it. Later books have dragged more slowly but by now I am so interested in the characters I can't stop. If it says anything about this series - it is one of the few I buy ONLY in hardcover and all are keepers.
I really enjoyed this book. If you like historical romance I would try this one out. It's set against the Scottish Highlands and brings in the changing political scene. The book is quite a few pages, but I couldn't put it down.
"In 1945 Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon when she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenach--an 'outlander'--in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year of our Lord...1743.
Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny is soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidden Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intriques of lairds and spies that may threaten her life...and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire...and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives."
Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny is soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidden Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intriques of lairds and spies that may threaten her life...and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire...and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives."
What surprised me most about this book is that it is first and foremost a romance. This is the story of Claire, who time traveled by accident to a time of Scottish clan conflicts as well as conflicts with the English "redcoats", and Jamie, a red-haired (what else?) Scottish warrior. Gabaldon writes well so the story moves quickly and keeps one's interest. I find it hard to believe that life was really as chaotic as Gabaldon outlines but it was a fun book to read - just long. Yes, I liked the book and if one enjoys Gabaldon's writing and romances this is a must read. If not, choose another novel.
Although originally marketed as a romance novel, this is most certainly NOT your ordinary historical romance novel. The books were re-classified historical fiction once the series popularity set-it. Set in Scotland 1700's. Terrific characters, & storyline interjected with humor and well researched history. Gabaldon has a story teller's gift. Love, love, loved this book. Jamie will haunt your dreams. You will save this book and read it over and over again. It will be one of your favorite all time reads.
Really liked this book. It kicked off a long dormant love for historical fiction.
I really loved that this was a SINK MY TEETH in kind of novel. Very long and easy to read. I could imagine myself in the highlands of Scotland. A little slow to start but worth it. Now reading book2.
You can not get a better book than this one. You will fall in love with Jamie an Clare. Don't be scared by the size of the book, the story is so rich in details and excitment that you won't be able to stop reading. A must read book.
This is one of the best time travel books that I've ever read. Characters are believable and interesting and I enjoy it every time I read it.
Awesome, awesome read. One of those books you can't put down and then rush to get the next book in the series the minute you finish this one. I love all her novels and even my husband grudgingly admitted to being drawn into the wonderful, complex story. It really has something for everyone. Highly recommended read!
MY FAVORITE BOOK OF ALL TIME :)
Excellent book about time travel.
I just couldn't get into this book. I didn't finish it.
Time trave and history readers will enjoy
This is a great yarn; good fun. I've read it twice now. Other books in the series aren't quite as good but this one is un-put-downable!
I liked it and the story has stayed with me.
This book is brilliant. It is a book I measure others against. The characters are rich and deep and the research is impecible. Of course there are things you have to "accept" - like the time travel but her detail and character development is exceptional. Without question it is probably my favorite book of all and the entire series is also terrific. I feel as if I know Jamie and Clare Fraser - I come away from the book feeling many emotions and that is the biggest compliment I can give a writer.
Slow start but a great read after you get past the initial hundred pages.
Beautifully written, compelling, magnificent, alluring, intriguing, outstanding story. I've read it over 3 times and love it every time. Diana Gabaldon is a master of words!
This is such a great book! I enjoyed reading it and now watching the shows on Starz.
There were bits and pieces of this book that were a wee bit slow, and even so, well worth the read. The details of life in Scotland in the 1700s and life in Scotland in the 1940s are both well-researched and presented in such a way that the author is not just spewing information at you. It helps that the main character is learning these things for herself for the first time.
I couldn't wait to see which way Claire went, so I scanned through the last few pages about halfway through the book. I loved the choice she made, and just had to see how it came about.
If you like time-travel, Scottish culture, hot men and a really good story, definitely put this one on your To Read list.
I couldn't wait to see which way Claire went, so I scanned through the last few pages about halfway through the book. I loved the choice she made, and just had to see how it came about.
If you like time-travel, Scottish culture, hot men and a really good story, definitely put this one on your To Read list.
This series as a whole was phenomenal. Despite the nature of most time travel Novels, there is an air of plausibility to Outlander that simply makes it irresistible, and as such you will find yourself unable to leave the book for any amount of time. The uncanny ability of the author to capture the historical elements of two different historical eras while weaving an undeniably strong love story, a search on the part of her characters to for their own passions and purpose in life, and a graphically real historical account or war, famine, strive and the like is beyond anything you as a reader can even begin to imagine. This is to say nothing of the beautiful language in which the author writes, the details to imagery that will leave you standing in fields of Heather while you sit a read. It is a simply phenomenal.
...could have been about 200 pages shorter, but enjoyed it otherwise :)
I enjoy a good romance novel. I tried to like it enough to read the 2nd in the series - but never managed to finish the 2nd book. It took too long to develop to grab and hold my interest. The series was recommended to me by many women who are rabid fans - alas, I cannot join them.
Great Historical Romance! Not a typical romance novel -- my husband likes the series.
Without a doubt one of the best books I've ever read. Can't wait until Dragonfly in Amber is available!!
It may take a bit of time for this book to take off for some people... not me, but some feel that way.... but once you get into the heart of the book - you will be obsessed with Jamie & Claire.... Unforgettable characters and series, I own the whole thing and love it. Diana has managed to write characters you want to know, you love and you absolutely wish existed! I thought great fiction was dead before Diana - I only read non-fiction for a long, long time - and now she opened this world back up to me - with such intelligent writing and characters that resonate to your core. Because of her I gave the genre a chance - and now own THREE unforgettable series, The Outlander, Gabaldon, Into the Wilderness Donati, and The Bronze Horseman Paullina Simons ALL are a cut above the rest in terms of intelligence, unforgettable characters and lifetime loves - I so hate it when the characters fight, clash, escape death, finally get together in the last 25 pages of the book, get married, the end....I want to know how they lived! I want the everyday as well as the drama - and the seasons of their lives and these three authors provide all that and more! If you give these books a chance you WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED
I loved this book. Diana is a fantastic writer and she does a great job of combining describtion and action so you dont get bored reading about how beautiful the heather is. :) My favorite aspect of these books is Clair's healing ability and the use of nature around her to help out the process. Totally facinating! I would recomend this book and the rest of the series to anyone.
Loved it, can't wait to read the next one in the series.
I really like historical novels and I really enjoyed this book. Diana Gabaldon has a way of drawing you into the action, making one really care about the characters and their outcomes. I liked it so much i just ordered the next 6 books in the Outlander series!
One of my favorite series. Wore out my first paperback copy I got when it first came out, so this is my replacement copy!
This is one of my favorite books of all time! It is such an amazing story! It has a little bit of everything! I would recommend it to anybody who enjoys romance/historical fiction.
I was about half-way through when I added book 2 of this series to my wish list. I don't know if I'll do the whole series (7 and counting) but I look forward to the next installment. The premise is thought-proking, moments of realization, conditions and people harsh. It felt a bit of a roller-coaster ride, but of course, the world and times were dangerous especially for the people Claire finds herself in the company of. And Jamie Fraser lives upto the hype of romantic, sensual hero.
well written and exciting. A keeper.
Absolutely AMAZING! Could not put down!! If I could jump back in time with Claire I would!
I saw the entire series before starting the books. It was helpful, because I could keep all of the people straight in my head. This was a very good and engrossing book. But I must say that Jamie Fraser has set the bar for men/husbands so high that most women will be disappointed for the rest of their lives.
This is a big book, but it holds your attention from beginning to end. It is an excellent time-travel adventure, the first in a series.
This series by Diana Gabladon is the best historical romance series every!
Once I started reading this book, I had to read the entire series non-stop.
loved this book. i re-read it every year. it's my guilty pleasure!
great fun marvelous and fantastic adventures romanceasex perfect escape reading...i give it an a+++++
One of the best series I have read and re-read at least 4 times...Still waiting to travel to Scotland, fall through the stones and find Jamie Fraiser myself!!
Best series I have ever read!
going back in the past in this book is very intrigueing.
WOW!! I had never read anything from this author, so I was not sure what to expect. This book had me laughing out loud, crying and praying I would someday meet a man like Jamie. This is the first of the series and I anticipate they will only get better. Great read and don't let the 850 pages intimidate you - the storyline keeps you wanting more and it took me no time to read it!
will be reading more for sure
This is a great book that is the beginning of a fantastic adventure! It's got a bit of everything - adventure, romance, time travel.
This is the start of the best series I have ever read. Gabaldon's storyline and writing style develops this series into a must read.
Loved this book! Jamie is every woman's dream!
**Contains Spoilers.**
Much closer to the supermarket-romance genre than I'd been expecting. I enjoy time-travel that really makes use of the different periods, and romance that is well-woven into a plot, like Time & Again. Glowing reviews led me to believe I might have found another winner, but I would say you should only try this book if you like the Romance-with-a-capital-R genre. In Outlander, Claire is magically transported to the 18th century, but her experiences adapting to the period are too quickly glossed over in favor of heated romantic encounters with a man whom I frankly found a little off-putting. I know many other readers think he's the height of sexy, but I prefer heroes who 1) never beat up their women no matter how justified, 2) win ladies with their activity, charm and wit instead of brawn and farming-knowledge and 3) don't spend quite so much time being stabbed, whipped, humiliated, and raped. In fact, there was altogether too much raping, attempted raping, misunderstood raping, and threatened raping throughout the book. It hit the point of being silly, where I was rather expecting every new character and scenario to somehow work in a rape angle ("Claire, I hope you will have another pancake - the cook makes nothing but pancakes since she was raped by a baker.")
Much closer to the supermarket-romance genre than I'd been expecting. I enjoy time-travel that really makes use of the different periods, and romance that is well-woven into a plot, like Time & Again. Glowing reviews led me to believe I might have found another winner, but I would say you should only try this book if you like the Romance-with-a-capital-R genre. In Outlander, Claire is magically transported to the 18th century, but her experiences adapting to the period are too quickly glossed over in favor of heated romantic encounters with a man whom I frankly found a little off-putting. I know many other readers think he's the height of sexy, but I prefer heroes who 1) never beat up their women no matter how justified, 2) win ladies with their activity, charm and wit instead of brawn and farming-knowledge and 3) don't spend quite so much time being stabbed, whipped, humiliated, and raped. In fact, there was altogether too much raping, attempted raping, misunderstood raping, and threatened raping throughout the book. It hit the point of being silly, where I was rather expecting every new character and scenario to somehow work in a rape angle ("Claire, I hope you will have another pancake - the cook makes nothing but pancakes since she was raped by a baker.")
This is a really good book. A really good one.
One of the best books I've read in a long time...kinda fantasy and historical fiction with a touch of romance, I just loved it! Can't wait to read the next one.
You have to love history,love romance and love stories with a bit of fantasy thrown in to make it a keeper book. The political drama of what was happening in the 1700's is difficult to follow in real life muchless in a fiction based on real facts. I think the author blends this love story well into that drama and following our main characters Jamie and Claire through this rollercoaster is very facinating for someone who loves Scottish history. I liked the characters and the discriptions of life in that time period. If you like quick stories this may not be your cup of tea, but if you like to follow your characters like friends you keep in touch with for a long time you will probably like this beginning novel and the books that follow in the series.
One of my favorite books ever - great series!
Once you start this don't plan to do anything else! I am not a fan of historical romance, but this was one fantastic romantic suspenseful sexy book. I've already started the next in the series!
The reader gets sucked right into the story and you just can't put it down! Excellent!
Awesome series. I love the Outlander books. Long epics with great colorful characters. This is the first one in the series. Try it.
This is possibly the best book I have ever read. Every woman need a Jamie of their own!! Who could play him in the movie version?? I'm not sure anyone out there could do him justice!!
This book grabs you from the beginning. Claire and Jamie are thrown together and then just hang on. It makes you want to read what happens next.
Excellent book! I am enjoying it very much. Romance, and adventure set in Scotland in 1745.
Ok. This really is a guilty pleasure. Sometimes you just have to have the doughnut even though you can feel your arteries hardening as you eat. She is a good writer.
While on her second honeymoon in the British Isles, Claire touches a boulder that hurls her back in time to the forbidden Castle Leoch with the MacKenzie clan. Not understanding the forces that brought her there, she becomes ensnared in life-threatening situations with a Scots warrior named James Fraser. But it isn't all spies and drudgery that she must endure. For amid her new surroundings and the terrors she faces, she is lured into love and passion like she's never known before.
"I was lame and sore in every muscle when I woke next morning. I shuffled to the privy closet, then to the wash basin. My innards felt like churned butter. It felt as though I had been beaten with a blunt object, I reflected, then thought that that was very near the truth. The blunt object in question was visible as I came back to bed, looking now relatively harmless. Its possessor [Jamie] woke as I sat next to him, and examined me with something that looked very much like male smugness."
Good Story
"I was lame and sore in every muscle when I woke next morning. I shuffled to the privy closet, then to the wash basin. My innards felt like churned butter. It felt as though I had been beaten with a blunt object, I reflected, then thought that that was very near the truth. The blunt object in question was visible as I came back to bed, looking now relatively harmless. Its possessor [Jamie] woke as I sat next to him, and examined me with something that looked very much like male smugness."
Good Story
Amazing love story that trancends time!
Interesting premise. I really enjoyed the adventure.
excellent. looking forward to the next one in the series
A great book--unforgettable!
This book is a classic -- I've re-read it I don't know how many times -- and every time I read it, I appreciate something new about it. The second book in the series, Dragonfly in Amber, is not as good as this one, but the rest of the series does not disappoint.
This is time travel to 18th century Scotland-lots of action, romance and a wonderful story.
One of my favorite authors.
First of a great series!!!
I love this book! Claire and Jamie are two of the best characters ever in a book, and the story is so much fun to read and reread over and over again!
This was a good book, long but good.
Absolutely incredible, romantic reading. These books more or less consumed my life for a few weeks!!
I love this series. I have read the first book three times. All of the books feel so real. This is a great store for those who relize there are down sides to love to.
Loved it!
Book is long, but an engaging story. Would definately recommend reading.
Book 1. Could not put it down! Loved it.
Loved this book so much and am now on the 5th book of the series and cant wait to read the last one! I will really miss all these characters, they feel like family to me now. Great book! recommend it highly!
Loved it! A historical, adverturous love story.
This first book in the Outlander series, is the beginning of a wonderful story ... can't wait to read the rest of the series.
I am loving this series. Highly recommend.
This is a wonderfully written book. It can stand alone or is the start of a great series, which is good news if you like Gabaldon's work (and I suspect you'll be a fan after you read this!)
An adventerous story of Claire Randall accidentally transported to 18th Century Scotland. She leaves behind one husband only to end up with another. Her loyalties are torn between the two men and as she struggles to return to the her own time she discovers she has grown fond of the 1743 Scotland. Great read.
This is my all time favorite book! I've given it to many of my friends. A most enjoyable read!
Great story.
In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war & reunited w/her husband on a 2nd honeymoon - when she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Sudden she is a Sassenach - an "outlander" - in a Scotland torn by wqar & raiding border clans in the year 1743.
In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon--when she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenach--an "outlander" in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year of our Lord..1743.
Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny is soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidding Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intrigues of lairds and spies that may threaten her life...and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire...and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives.
Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny is soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidding Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intrigues of lairds and spies that may threaten her life...and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire...and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives.
I was disappointed in this as a historical novel - it was little more than a toned down bodice-ripping romance - stretched out with lavish historical detail to be sure - but not that substantial in the end. I found myself turned off by both the female and male archetypes, and that the heroine's inner conflict was so shallow. (Can't say more without giving away the ending, which I wasn't happy with.) I did enjoy the rich descriptions of Scotland, having just come back from spending a week touring the country.
Far better are the novels of The Change by S. M. Stirling if you're looking to be gripped by the narrative and sucked into the character's lives in a way that is both relevant and fascinating. "Island in the Sea of Time" is the first of that series.
Far better are the novels of The Change by S. M. Stirling if you're looking to be gripped by the narrative and sucked into the character's lives in a way that is both relevant and fascinating. "Island in the Sea of Time" is the first of that series.
The first in this popular series.
The first book in the wonderful saga of Jamie and Claire Fraser. If you are a woman and don't fall in love with Jamie, something is wrong! My very favorite author and series.
Fantastic time travel/romance! One of my all-time favorite series (I re-read this series at least once annually)!!! This is the first of five currently in PB, and the latest HB comes out 27 September.
Absolutely captivating. I can't recommend it highly enough.
This book was absolutely wonderful :) It was my first historical romance, and I couldn't put it down. Every woman should have a man like Jamie to keep them warm at night. His sexy accent and undying lust for Claire made this a delicious read.
Diana Gabaldon's books are the ONLY books that I collect & buy in hardback! Excellent!
Great book! I had to start the next in the series as soon as I put this one down!
This is a well written book and a beautiful love story. I enjoyed the historical view as well. Highly recommend this.
I absolutely loved this book. This is a novel that I will buy a hardback for my collection to read over and over again.
Excellent time travel book... amazing!
At first I was unsure about tackling this book because it is so long (and so are the books that come after it!) but I decided to give it a try because I've heard so many good things about it. I am very glad that I did! It didn't take that long to read because I couldn't put it down. There were so many things that I wish had not happened in the book (how much battering can one body take??), but the relationship between Claire and Jamie is just breathtaking to watch.
Time Travel, Adventure, A Highland battle, a wedding and tons of action made this book the beginning of a strong following for Gabaldon's Outlander Series. Full of historical detail and well written this makes a wonderful read.
Have you ever read a book you didn't want to end? Have you ever read a book where the characters made you cry? That is this book! I did not want to put it down. A+++ read.
I really enjoyed this book. The first 30 pages was a bit hard to get through all the history. After that, it was fabulous! The heroine is wonderfully modern and sassy. Recommended.
The year is 1945. Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoo when she walks through a standing stone in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenach an "outlander" in a Scotland torn by war and raiding highland clans in the year of our lord 1743
An interesting fantasy romance.
Interesting concept! And you gotta Jamie!!
Combining time travel with romance and excellent writing makes for an interesting read.
I know this is an extremely popular series, but I just couldn't get into this book, and stopped reading about halfway through.
This was a very good book. However, Gabaldon could have shortened it by 1/3 and it would have been much better. The story is a good one and kept me interested. But the reader must slog through so many scenes that are so similar to one another that at times it gets very boring. For instance, she could have cut down on the length of the love scenes considerably. Also, I was very turned off by all the attention (and many, many pages) spent on the subject of corporal punishment. It's a testament to the outstanding general story line that I just didn't stop reading at the point of where she and Jamie are going on and on about all the beatings he's incurred over his entire life.
I am in the middle of her next book, Dragonfly in Amber, and I am having the same problem keeping my interest going. If she had reduced the book by about 1/3 I think I would have no problem staying interested. So the dilemma is that the books ARE good enough to just keep you reading, but you must endure a lot of uninteresting redundancy in order to get through them.
I am in the middle of her next book, Dragonfly in Amber, and I am having the same problem keeping my interest going. If she had reduced the book by about 1/3 I think I would have no problem staying interested. So the dilemma is that the books ARE good enough to just keep you reading, but you must endure a lot of uninteresting redundancy in order to get through them.
Great beach book or airplane read. Engaging tale of romance in 18th century Ireland.
A wonderful & powerful yarn - the first in the Jamie & Claire books. Not your normal "time-travel" book!
A good vacation read. And not as graphic as most romance novels.
Scottish Highlands, 1945. Claire Randall, a former British combat nurse, is just back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon when she walks through a standing stone in one of the ancient circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is an "outlander" in a Scotland torn by war and raiding clans in the year of Our Lord . . . 1743.
Claire is catapulted into the intrigues of a world that threatens her life, and may shatter her heart. Marooned amid danger, passion, and violence, Claire learns her only chance of safety lies in Jamie Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior. What begins in compulsion becomes urgent need, and Claire finds herself torn between two very different men, in two irreconcilable lives.
Claire is catapulted into the intrigues of a world that threatens her life, and may shatter her heart. Marooned amid danger, passion, and violence, Claire learns her only chance of safety lies in Jamie Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior. What begins in compulsion becomes urgent need, and Claire finds herself torn between two very different men, in two irreconcilable lives.
WOW! This is the first book in a long time that I have wanted to read over and over. I can hardly wait for the next one to get here.
Given to me by a friend. Never got into it, and lost touch with friend. Want it?
Interesting book about a nurse in WWII who time travels to Scotland of the 17 hundreds. The first of a series. It presents a good picture of life in that time.
You're either going to love this book or find it pointless. I have mixed opinions so I'm hesitant to recommend the book unless you're dying to read a 900 page book. The book isn't horrible at all, but neither is it the next Great American Novel. I was satisfied with reading the book, but not so thrilled that I am going to continue to read the rest of the books in the series.
The author clearly did an incredible amount of detailed research on life, fighting, culture, customs of 18th centry Scotland, but the level of detail is overkill. There are also an incredible number of secondary characters and backstories to remember.
The hero is intially very sweet, loving, and I hope I don't spoil this for anyone - is refreshingly a virgin, which is a rarity for a hero in this genre. It's actually the heroine who is more sexually experienced since she's a married woman. The hero has some really heartbreakingly lovely lines in the book - the kind that would make a grown woman swoon. However, this is more than a romance novel. It's a mishmash of romance, time travel, and historical. The author could have shortened the book by 300 pages without damaging the story. The plot should have been about her being torn in two since she loves her husband in contemporary time and she also cares for the 18th century Highlander. She seems to barely love her husband in the 20th century. You really don't get a sense of their connection and frankly her husband doesn't seem like a villain either so it's baffling why the author allows the heroine to quickly adapt to life in the past. She doesn't seem surprised by all the things in the past. She also manages to remember an astonishing amount of historical details (names and dates) for someone who wasn't a historian.
As the previous reviewers have mentioned, there's a lot of sex and at inappropriate times. Now I'm a big fan of smutty books so sex is perfectly good with me, but the sex here is not erotic or passionate. The sex scenes could have been better.
This book is not for anyone who has suffered any kind of abuse. I could see some of the things here being a trigger for bad memories. You should know there are some disturbing scenes of male/male rape (described in detail), wife beating with a strap (she can't walk or ride for days afterward), violent sex, lots of death, references to previous beatings, torture, whipping, at least three attempted rapes, branding, witch trials, and lots of fighting. I can't count the number of times the hero recounts, sometimes happily, the beatings he received from family members and others. I realize this book depicts life in a thankfully bygone era, but my gosh the author went overboard with the violence. Violence and rape are two big themes in the story. This is not light-hearted reading. This book will dig into your psyche. The sections leading to the ending are quite violent, and honestly the scene where the heroine tries to revive the ghostly memories of her husband's time in the dungeon was disgusting. Nor did I buy his quick psychological turn around either. People don't recover from trauma that quickly. I've watched enough Dr. Phil and Oprah to know this - I knew those shows had some value.
For those that care about the point of view, you should know this book is written from the heroine's first person point of view.
The author clearly did an incredible amount of detailed research on life, fighting, culture, customs of 18th centry Scotland, but the level of detail is overkill. There are also an incredible number of secondary characters and backstories to remember.
The hero is intially very sweet, loving, and I hope I don't spoil this for anyone - is refreshingly a virgin, which is a rarity for a hero in this genre. It's actually the heroine who is more sexually experienced since she's a married woman. The hero has some really heartbreakingly lovely lines in the book - the kind that would make a grown woman swoon. However, this is more than a romance novel. It's a mishmash of romance, time travel, and historical. The author could have shortened the book by 300 pages without damaging the story. The plot should have been about her being torn in two since she loves her husband in contemporary time and she also cares for the 18th century Highlander. She seems to barely love her husband in the 20th century. You really don't get a sense of their connection and frankly her husband doesn't seem like a villain either so it's baffling why the author allows the heroine to quickly adapt to life in the past. She doesn't seem surprised by all the things in the past. She also manages to remember an astonishing amount of historical details (names and dates) for someone who wasn't a historian.
As the previous reviewers have mentioned, there's a lot of sex and at inappropriate times. Now I'm a big fan of smutty books so sex is perfectly good with me, but the sex here is not erotic or passionate. The sex scenes could have been better.
This book is not for anyone who has suffered any kind of abuse. I could see some of the things here being a trigger for bad memories. You should know there are some disturbing scenes of male/male rape (described in detail), wife beating with a strap (she can't walk or ride for days afterward), violent sex, lots of death, references to previous beatings, torture, whipping, at least three attempted rapes, branding, witch trials, and lots of fighting. I can't count the number of times the hero recounts, sometimes happily, the beatings he received from family members and others. I realize this book depicts life in a thankfully bygone era, but my gosh the author went overboard with the violence. Violence and rape are two big themes in the story. This is not light-hearted reading. This book will dig into your psyche. The sections leading to the ending are quite violent, and honestly the scene where the heroine tries to revive the ghostly memories of her husband's time in the dungeon was disgusting. Nor did I buy his quick psychological turn around either. People don't recover from trauma that quickly. I've watched enough Dr. Phil and Oprah to know this - I knew those shows had some value.
For those that care about the point of view, you should know this book is written from the heroine's first person point of view.
If you have not read this series you need to. My husband enjoyed it as much as I did. I started reading it about the time the 4th book came out and loved it so much that I am now trying to just collect the hardbacks for the earlier books that I do not have. Read it before you watch it on TV. Its worth the 800plus pages per book!
Because of the length of this book (the size of a trilogy), I was reluctant to start it. However, I am very glad that I did, because it's a very entertaining story--well imagined and well told.
It's 1945 and the war has ended. Claire Randall and her husband Frank are taking a second honeymoon in the highlands of Scotland after eight years of separation. One day, while Frank is absorbed in his research of his family history, former nurse Claire takes a walk to a small ancient rock formation to gather some plants for her collection. Suddenly and mysteriously she is hurtled back through time to the year 1743.
Alone and confused, Claire stumbles across a band of Scottish Highlanders and lies her way into their good graces. Within the group is Jamie Fraser, a charming and handsome warrior whom Claire finds herself drawn to. But what of Frank back in her own time? How will she get back? Does she even want to?
It has been a painfully long time since I have read a book as good as Diana Gabaldon's Outlander. I admit that the synopsis is cheesy, laughable even. Girl goes back in time? Come on, give me a break. Outlander however, is anything but cheesy in nature.
It is so hard to describe how wonderful Outlander was. I had so many "moments" throughout the entire (very lengthy) book. There were moments of sheer terror, joy, excitement, sadness, and even...dare I write it in a review?...a few moments that really turned me on.
Gabaldon's characters are so real. It's actually kind of scary. Her characters were so relatable and so wonderfully physical and emotionally deep that I sometimes would have to remind myself that they were indeed fictional. Claire is so torn emotionally that I can feel her pain and her torment as she tries to decide what to do with her predicament, and Jamie...it must be said: what a hunk! OMG. I have not been this into a romance novel since "Plains of Passage" came out several years ago.
But labeling Outlander as a romance novel is such an unfair label to give. It was more than that; it was an adventure novel, a fantasy novel, a historical fiction, and so much more.
A word of caution: this one is for the ladies. I can see a guy sort of getting into it in the beginning, but losing interest as the romance part intensifies as Outlander goes on. A stereotypical point to make I know, but it had to be said in any case.
But...oh my goodness ladies: I've been done with Outlander for quite some time now and even glancing at the finished book on my shelf makes me fan my face Miss. America style once again. It was that good. I can't WAIT to get my grubby little hands on the next book in the series (Dragonfly in Amber). I've read some lukewarm reviews about it, but I don't care! If it has Jamie in it again...whew! Can you see me fanning myself? I am.
5 stars is so not enough.
Alone and confused, Claire stumbles across a band of Scottish Highlanders and lies her way into their good graces. Within the group is Jamie Fraser, a charming and handsome warrior whom Claire finds herself drawn to. But what of Frank back in her own time? How will she get back? Does she even want to?
It has been a painfully long time since I have read a book as good as Diana Gabaldon's Outlander. I admit that the synopsis is cheesy, laughable even. Girl goes back in time? Come on, give me a break. Outlander however, is anything but cheesy in nature.
It is so hard to describe how wonderful Outlander was. I had so many "moments" throughout the entire (very lengthy) book. There were moments of sheer terror, joy, excitement, sadness, and even...dare I write it in a review?...a few moments that really turned me on.
Gabaldon's characters are so real. It's actually kind of scary. Her characters were so relatable and so wonderfully physical and emotionally deep that I sometimes would have to remind myself that they were indeed fictional. Claire is so torn emotionally that I can feel her pain and her torment as she tries to decide what to do with her predicament, and Jamie...it must be said: what a hunk! OMG. I have not been this into a romance novel since "Plains of Passage" came out several years ago.
But labeling Outlander as a romance novel is such an unfair label to give. It was more than that; it was an adventure novel, a fantasy novel, a historical fiction, and so much more.
A word of caution: this one is for the ladies. I can see a guy sort of getting into it in the beginning, but losing interest as the romance part intensifies as Outlander goes on. A stereotypical point to make I know, but it had to be said in any case.
But...oh my goodness ladies: I've been done with Outlander for quite some time now and even glancing at the finished book on my shelf makes me fan my face Miss. America style once again. It was that good. I can't WAIT to get my grubby little hands on the next book in the series (Dragonfly in Amber). I've read some lukewarm reviews about it, but I don't care! If it has Jamie in it again...whew! Can you see me fanning myself? I am.
5 stars is so not enough.
Outstanding! One of the best books I've read in years. This is the first book in a wonderful series.
I read this book as part of a book club reluctantly and enjoyed it so much that I am now in the process of reading the rest of the series.
What a ride! This book is unbelievable and then even better. You better have a free day or two since you will not want to put it down. The writing is so vivid and alive you are right there with Jamie and Claire. This is a can't miss book. Once you are hooked you will have to read the series. Wow, what a ride!
One of the best books and series' out there. I've never read anything that has completely captured my attention and my imagination as fully as Gabaldon's series. You become so invested in the lives our Gabaldon's character that they start feeling like real people!
I would recommend this book to anyone and have!
I would recommend this book to anyone and have!
I throughly enjoyed this book and the books in this series to come.
Gabaldon writes exciting historical fiction, thoroughly researched and fully realized.
This is the 1st of Diana Gabalon's Highlander saga (5 in total) and it's an awesome read! I couldn't put it down and read it fast enough!
In Outlander, a 600-page time-travel romance, strong-willed and sensual Claire Randall leads a double life with a husband in one century, and a lover in another. Torn between fidelity and desire, she struggles to understand the pure intent of her heart. But don't let the number of pages and the Scottish dialect scare you. It's one of the fastest reads you'll have in your library.
While on her second honeymoon in the British Isles, Claire touches a boulder that hurls her back in time to the forbidden Castle Leoch with the MacKenzie clan. Not understanding the forces that brought her there, she becomes ensnared in life-threatening situations with a Scots warrior named James Fraser. But it isn't all spies and drudgery that she must endure. For amid her new surroundings and the terrors she faces, she is lured into love and passion like she's never known before.
In Outlander, a 600-page time-travel romance, strong-willed and sensual Claire Randall leads a double life with a husband in one century, and a lover in another. Torn between fidelity and desire, she struggles to understand the pure intent of her heart. But don't let the number of pages and the Scottish dialect scare you. It's one of the fastest reads you'll have in your library.
While on her second honeymoon in the British Isles, Claire touches a boulder that hurls her back in time to the forbidden Castle Leoch with the MacKenzie clan. Not understanding the forces that brought her there, she becomes ensnared in life-threatening situations with a Scots warrior named James Fraser. But it isn't all spies and drudgery that she must endure. For amid her new surroundings and the terrors she faces, she is lured into love and passion like she's never known before.
Love this series--packed with adventure and romance!
I read this book years ago, and it's still one of my favorite books ever. A wonderful story.
A really great time travel book.
Claire Randall goes through the ancient stone circles in England 1945, and ends up in Scotland in 1743. For her protection they make her marry a highlander from a Clan Mackenzie so he can be her protector during a time of war with England. And the weird thing is that the worst enemy she encounters is actually an relation of her husband from 1945...
Claire Randall goes through the ancient stone circles in England 1945, and ends up in Scotland in 1743. For her protection they make her marry a highlander from a Clan Mackenzie so he can be her protector during a time of war with England. And the weird thing is that the worst enemy she encounters is actually an relation of her husband from 1945...
I know a lot of people love this book but I really disliked it and so did my daughter, who read it separately. If you're into historical romance it's probably something you'd enjoy but it held no charms for me.
I very much enjoyed reading this Epic, it is the first time I have read this author..
I thought she was very descriptive n her writing, I can certainly understand why this was hard to get a hold of, I will continue on with the rest of the series
I thought she was very descriptive n her writing, I can certainly understand why this was hard to get a hold of, I will continue on with the rest of the series
The first in the Highlander series is an awesome read! Claire Randall,a former combat nurse back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon-when she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. suddenly she is a Sassenach-an "outlander"-in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year 1743. Once you read this 1st book you'll be addicted and must read the rest!
Wonderful Book! Great characterization and she does a great job making you want to read more!
One of my favorite books. Wonderful characters, unforgettable writing - I can't recommend it highly enough!
1st book in the time travel, romance series. I love them all!
I love this series! the whole time travel, sexy Scottish guy, stubborn female story line really works and the historical aspects are really interesting. Did I say I love this series? I LOVE all of the books Gabaldon has written.
Warning...has sex.....but it was an awesome story!! I hope the other books carry on the story!!
excellent romp
Claire Randall is leading a double life. She has a husband in one century, and a lover in another.
Claire Randall is leading a double life. She has a husband in one century and a lover in another. From 1945 to 1743.
This book is sweeping in its scope, and mesmerizing in the action and adventure it contains. A very entertaining way to learn something about 18th century Scotland! There's plenty of political intrigue, violence, sex (even some bodice-ripping) but I don't think the book belongs in the "romance" category. It has great character development, and creates a many-layered complex world that seems quite real and plausible, even though it begins with a time-travel event!
First book in series. Excellent!
I have read and re-read this series and am now collecting it in hardback. Outlander is the first book in a series that takes place before and during the Scottish rising, as well as in the era of WWII. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a page-turning escape from the real world.
I started reading this series along time ago. If you like time travel stories. This is a good one.
Addicting series! Start ordering the next ones in the series NOW as you'll want to have them on hand for when you finish each book!!
Great Story, goes through a long twisting plot that doesn't necessarily surprise you but keeps you entertained through the whole 850 pages!
This is a FABULOUS series, and Gabaldon's writing is just wonderful. You are so immersed in the factual details of another time, you won't be able to put it down...
One in a series that involves romance and time travel with Claire Randall who travels back in time and into the arms of gallant eighteenth-century Scot Jamie Fraser.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book, given the Harlequin romance novel premise. (I had to take other reviewers words that this was in fact a quality book) It's quite well written...the characters are complex and believable. The story is far fetched but fascinating. Some of the exchanges between characters are quite amusing, if not laugh out loud funny. The content of this book ranges from hilarious to downright disturbing. Clever segues and surprisingly few plotholes for such a complex story. The author has a gift, there's no doubt about it. I think my main complaint would have to be the enormous amount of sex in this book. I'm a prude by no stretch of the imagination (perv by nature, actually)....but my idea of love and romance does not focus on sex so completely. I lost count of how many times the heroine was saved from a savage rape in progress...or how many times Jamie stroked Claire's breasts whimpering Holy Gods and going down on her. I'm all about a few well placed sex scenes, but there were sooo many of them they seemed more deserving of a place in some above mentioned Harlequin romance smut than in cheapening this otherwise engaging novel. It's not going to stop me from picking up the second book in the series though, as overall it's quite an impressive read.
This is one of the best books I have ever read! It starts out with Claire Randall and her husband Frank Randall in Scotland for a second honeymoon after many years apart while both were serving in World War 2. Claire is a nurse and Frank is an archealogist who is very interested in his family history and is trying to track it. Claire goes out on her own one day and comes across a circle of standing stones. Intrigued, Claire goes up to one and touches it and immediately gets catapulted back in time 200 years. She soon runs into Black Jack Randall and also Dougal and Jamie who rescue her from Randall's clutches. Jamie is a British outlaw and Claire is forced to marry him. She soon discovers that Jamie is a wonderful, brave and loving man who would do anything to protect her. Claire has conflicting feelings because she is still in love with Frank. Over time, Claire develops a very strong love for Jamie. She is a very loving and devoted wife to him. The book talks a lot about the conflicts between Scotland and Britain and the political issues and differences between the two. Claire and Jamie spend a lot of time with Jamie's uncle and then go to Jamie's sister's and Stay for a while at Lallybrooch. Eventually, Claire and Jamie end up in France and are trying to stop the battle of Culloden where many
Scots get killed. The book is amazing and there are many more adventures than what I have mentioned. There are 8 books so far in this series and I have read all but the last one. I listened to a lot of them on tape and that was fantastic! Read this series you won't be sorry! There is also a TV series made from these books playing on the Starz channel. If you want something similar to these books then I suggest that you read the Earth Children Series, which starts out with the Clan of the Cave Bear, by Jean M. Auel and has 6 books in the total series. It is a different genre, but just as amazing as these books!
Scots get killed. The book is amazing and there are many more adventures than what I have mentioned. There are 8 books so far in this series and I have read all but the last one. I listened to a lot of them on tape and that was fantastic! Read this series you won't be sorry! There is also a TV series made from these books playing on the Starz channel. If you want something similar to these books then I suggest that you read the Earth Children Series, which starts out with the Clan of the Cave Bear, by Jean M. Auel and has 6 books in the total series. It is a different genre, but just as amazing as these books!
I really ,really wanted to fall in love with this book,however I am probably in the minority I just did not enjoy it,and I hate to even admit it I could not finish the book. I just could not get away from the "set up" in the beginning and I knew who she was going to run into in the past-and then it became the romance book or what I call "fluff books I just can not read".So I passed it on I am not saying it is a horrible book I am just saying that the book did not grab my attention so I passed it on.
Very good series
STORY STARTS IN 1945 WHEN CLARE RANDALL AND HER HUSBAND GO ON A SECOND HONEYMOON.CLARE FINDS STONES LAID IN A CIRCLE WHILE VEWING THE COUNTRYSIDE. WHILE INSPECTING THEM SHE IS THROWN INTO TIME TRAVEL AND FINDS HERSELF IN THE 1700S. THIS IS A VERY INTERESTING AND SPELLBINDING BOOK. ONE OF THE BEST I HAVE READ. COULDNT PUT IT DOWN UNTIL I FINISHED.
This is the best book ever! I love it! The entire series is to die for.
I have actually read this book multiple times. Diana Gabaldon is a fantastic author. It is well written and well edited. While the characters are fictional, many of the events are true historical events and she takes the time to thoroughly research and portray the history accurately. The entire Outlander series is phenomenal and I cannot recommend it highly enough. It does take a bit to really get into the story, but the first part of the book is essential to the rest of the story. As I go back and re-read it, I am always finding more parallels between the first part of the story and later parts. The dialect can also be a little difficult to get used to. Took me a few times of seeing "ken" to realize it meant "know"! Once you are hooked though, you won't be able to put it down.
I was very anxious to read this book after viewing some of the series on TV. The author writes with incredible attention to detail and is very gifted how she weaves the story bringing you back to the 1700's. However I do not think I would read anymore in the series as I found it read too much like a romance novel. Definitely geared to more of a woman's taste. I have nothing negative to say. It was just not for me.
Great author & great book
Very enjoyable read...will read more of this series.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
This book should be renamed The Never Ending Story!!!
Don't know why this book was a best seller. This book had no direction for the entire 1,000 pages and finally ended with no closure or development into the next books.....which I will not be reading. The characters were annoying and randomly made love any time the author could write it into the story. There is way to much detail setting scenes. I understand that is important, but I'd say this was overkill. The story got boring!
Don't know why this book was a best seller. This book had no direction for the entire 1,000 pages and finally ended with no closure or development into the next books.....which I will not be reading. The characters were annoying and randomly made love any time the author could write it into the story. There is way to much detail setting scenes. I understand that is important, but I'd say this was overkill. The story got boring!
Diana Gabaldon's Outlander is the first book in a series that is historical fiction, fantasy and science fiction, action and adventure, and romance all rolled up into one book. I enjoyed the book for many reasons particularly a strong female lead character. Really, I enjoyed all aspects of the book except for the graphic physical descriptions. Those I can do without.
Read my complete review at: http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2014/06/outlander.html
*** Reviewed based on a copy received through a publishers giveaway ***
Read my complete review at: http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2014/06/outlander.html
*** Reviewed based on a copy received through a publishers giveaway ***
Wonderful book. I was hard to put down. Kept wanting to know what was going to happen next.
It took me a few chapters to get into the book but once I did I couldn't put it down! I love Jamie, I love his accent and I love that he calls Claire, Sassenach. I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
This was one of the best books I have ever read. I was pulled in from the very beginning and could not wait to get back to it when I had to stop. I would recommend it as a must read.
I love the Outlander series and this is the one that started it!
Wonder beginning to a fantastic series. I loved it!
First book in the series and it's my favorite
eh, it was OK. Didn't like it as much as I thought I would.
Such a wonderful story.
A satisfyingly good read. I am behind the eight ball in this series, but I thoroughly enjoyed the first book. I am interested to watch the show although I hear that it has been disappointing to some readers. Willing to give it a chance.
This book took me a while to get through. In the end, I liked it, but I don't think it's the best I've ever read. I've ordered the next in the series to see if it picks up since there are so many rave reviews!
A lot of detail, but I enjoyed it.
Currently reading this but nearing completion, the book begins a bit slow but after the rough start it gets into a faster paced other worldly adventure of fantasy, history and intrigue. A wonderful captivating read with colorful characters and descriptive scenery. A wonderful book that is sure to please those with an thirst for adventure and romance.
"Claire Randall is leading a double life. She has a husband in one century, and a lover in another...." This is quite a page turner. It was interesting to read about Scotland in the mid 1700's and Claire's absorption into this new and strange life.
"In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon - when she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly, she is a Sassenach - an 'outlander' - in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year of our Lord ... 1743."
loved this book
Loved the book more than the tv series. The series was beautiful but some scenes were toooo graphic . I loved the story and am now reading the second book !
wow good bood, was really long but you can't rush through it. on to book 2. thank you lucy for the book.
No one does it like Diana Gabaldon. This series ROCKS!!!!
The cover is different than cover shown.
It was ok. I wanted to like it more than I did. Some of the parts were uncomfortable and shocking.
Love those highlander books.
A very good book to escape with, but holy wow, enough romance to rival the romance section of any bookstore. Quite honestly, I didn't mind the fact that this book was much more of a romance than I expected, but I really could have done away with ALL of the romance scenes -- took a lot away from the overall story. After a while, it got to the point where I found myself saying out loud, "Okay, I get it, they LOVE each other!" Every time it moved past that, I found the story very entertaining and fascinating, and I am interested to read the second book to find out what happens.
Not a huge fan of the events at the end of the book either, those who have read it know what I mean. Not sure if it called for that, but I guess there really wasn't any other way to have the final events take place?
Not a huge fan of the events at the end of the book either, those who have read it know what I mean. Not sure if it called for that, but I guess there really wasn't any other way to have the final events take place?
This story was very nice. There are many concepts in this story that I liked: time travel, folk stories that the locals tell etc.
This was an Okay book I probably won't read any more of the series. A little to much sexual content for my taste.
Amazon.com:
In Outlander, a 600-page time-travel romance, strong-willed and sensual Claire Randall leads a double life with a husband in one century, and a lover in another. Torn between fidelity and desire, she struggles to understand the pure intent of her heart. But don't let the number of pages and the Scottish dialect scare you. It's one of the fastest reads you'll have in your library.
While on her second honeymoon in the British Isles, Claire touches a boulder that hurls her back in time to the forbidden Castle Leoch with the MacKenzie clan. Not understanding the forces that brought her there, she becomes ensnared in life-threatening situations with a Scots warrior named James Fraser. But it isn't all spies and drudgery that she must endure. For amid her new surroundings and the terrors she faces, she is lured into love and passion like she's never known before.
I was lame and sore in every muscle when I woke next morning. I shuffled to the privy closet, then to the wash basin. My innards felt like churned butter. It felt as though I had been beaten with a blunt object, I reflected, then thought that that was very near the truth. The blunt object in question was visible as I came back to bed, looking now relatively harmless. Its possessor [Jamie] woke as I sat next to him, and examined me with something that looked very much like male smugness."
Gabaldon creates characters that you'll remember, laugh with, cry with, and cheer for long after you've finished the book. --Candy Paape
In Outlander, a 600-page time-travel romance, strong-willed and sensual Claire Randall leads a double life with a husband in one century, and a lover in another. Torn between fidelity and desire, she struggles to understand the pure intent of her heart. But don't let the number of pages and the Scottish dialect scare you. It's one of the fastest reads you'll have in your library.
While on her second honeymoon in the British Isles, Claire touches a boulder that hurls her back in time to the forbidden Castle Leoch with the MacKenzie clan. Not understanding the forces that brought her there, she becomes ensnared in life-threatening situations with a Scots warrior named James Fraser. But it isn't all spies and drudgery that she must endure. For amid her new surroundings and the terrors she faces, she is lured into love and passion like she's never known before.
I was lame and sore in every muscle when I woke next morning. I shuffled to the privy closet, then to the wash basin. My innards felt like churned butter. It felt as though I had been beaten with a blunt object, I reflected, then thought that that was very near the truth. The blunt object in question was visible as I came back to bed, looking now relatively harmless. Its possessor [Jamie] woke as I sat next to him, and examined me with something that looked very much like male smugness."
Gabaldon creates characters that you'll remember, laugh with, cry with, and cheer for long after you've finished the book. --Candy Paape
Different cover art
Loved it.
Outstanding book! Couldn't put it down.
never cover, same book
Claire Randall is leading a double life. She has a husband in one century, and a lover in another...
In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoonwhen she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenachan "outlander"--in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year of our Lord...1743.
Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny in soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidden Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intrigues of lairds and spies that may threaten her life ...and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire...and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives.
In 1945, Claire Randall, a former combat nurse, is back from the war and reunited with her husband on a second honeymoonwhen she innocently touches a boulder in one of the ancient stone circles that dot the British Isles. Suddenly she is a Sassenachan "outlander"--in a Scotland torn by war and raiding border clans in the year of our Lord...1743.
Hurled back in time by forces she cannot understand, Claire's destiny in soon inextricably intertwined with Clan MacKenzie and the forbidden Castle Leoch. She is catapulted without warning into the intrigues of lairds and spies that may threaten her life ...and shatter her heart. For here, James Fraser, a gallant young Scots warrior, shows her a passion so fierce and a love so absolute that Claire becomes a woman torn between fidelity and desire...and between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives.
This is the Mass Market Paperback.
This paperback is not in the best shape - an ex-library edition. But an excellent read and the perfect book to take on your vacation and leave behind for the next reader. The first in a series but a good read all on it's own.
