Dear Readers–
Well, AN ECHO IN THE BONE debuts on the New York Times list next week at #2! (My publisher sent me a large bottle of single-malt Scotch in congratulation–and, I suspect, in apology for having released Dan Brown’s book a week before ECHO [g].)
HUGE thanks to all of you, and I’m thrilled that y’all seem to be enjoying the book!
A word about the ending…I did say, did I not, “Nobody’s going to hit the end of _this_ book, and think it’s the last one?” [g] Indeed it is not. There will certainly be a Book Eight–and no, I have no idea when that one will be out. At the moment, I’m home on a (very brief) furlough from book-touring; back on the road Monday, and won’t be home for good until Thanksgiving, which is the soonest I could reasonably resume anything like a productive writing routine–as well as a prequel volume about Jamie’s parents, a Volume II of the OUTLANDISH COMPANION, and heaven knows what-all else. But the story is definitely not over!
For my small part, you're very welcome – although what you have given me with this wonderful story, unforgettable characters and historical education, *g* (not to mention all the wonderful friends I've made at LOL and Fergus weekend every year) is absolutely nothing in comparison. I will admit upon reading the last page I exclaimed "Diana is EVIL"! *g* Of course, it was said through happy tears.
I'm glad you're getting a break from traveling! You've given us much to discuss for the next few years while you write the next one, I'll be looking forward to the continuation of the story!
Congratulations! I am definitely anxious for book 8!
You deserve a nice break though. Well, I am looking forward to seeing you in Mtn View on Wednesday. I am dragging my husband and not quite 2 year old son along, so you will probably know who my little group is by our volume :D…Anyway, hope you have a good break and then happy travels!
The weather here in Maine has been perfect for Echo: cold, damp, and getting dark much to early. A great time of year to put out a new book. Thank you! I've begun reading it already and keep thinking of ways to take it to work and get some reading in so I don't have to leave the characters behind.
Once again, you've got me hooked.
Cheers, and congratulations on hitting number 2!!
Mary Duncan
Diana –
I was in border just the other day and noticed ECHO front and center, with a big yellow sign that said "New York Times #2" – extremely awesome, but yet not surprising or unexpected
That recognition is well deserved! Congratulations and Happy and Safe travels
-Nathalie
Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love ECHO, Diana. I'm hoping there will be a book 9, also.
But, just keep writing – I'll keep reading and enjoying. Thank you!
Happy and safe travels.
Judie
I'm still reading but soo very hooked. Sadly I won't make it to your book signing here in Saskatoon in 2 weeks. Hubby's work schedule has changed and travelling the 5 hour commute with 2 kids just isn't something to be done in Northern Saskatchewan during hunting season (LOTS of deer and moose on the road). Wish I could have met you. Maybe for book 8!
I have not started Echo yet because I am waiting for the right uninterrupted time. Because I know once I open the book I will not be putting it down until I am done the last page. That is the relationship I've had with these books.
Again, I am sorry I'm going to miss you in Ottawa because of my son's surgery but perhaps we'll get another opportunity. I mentioned it to Karen, a friend of mine, who first introduced me to you. I hope she gets a chance to stop in to see you.
Have a Happy Thanks Giving!
I am about half-way through Echo and reading it very slowly to enjoy each and every page. I hope to see you in Mountain View this week, if work cooperates.
Congrats on the Ranking.
Dear Diana~
First off, I have to say that the ending of Echo really threw me. I was, admittedly, a little angry for so much having been left hanging until the next book. I have since recovered my equanimity and can say that I enjoyed the ride.
I was especially entertained by your battle scenes, even the Jamie/Laoghaire one.
As for the obvious: of course there'll be a Book 8. What I want to know is whether there will be a Book 9!! It only makes sense, especially since Echo ended mid-1778, and you've stated many times that the story will end around 1800. Needless to say, you _are_ the author and your story can go wherever it takes you.
Take care and enjoy some rest.
Midge
(Merrymags)
I'll share your scotch with you!
~Congratulations~
Your welcome from my small part of preordering the novel. I am enjoying it and savoring each bit. I'm working my way slowly through as I know the worst thing about your novels is that they have to end. I always reach the end and want more right away!
I am VERY excited that you are writing a prequel about Jamie's parents. That sounds fantastic!
Thanks for the great novels and have fun on your voyages. I just hope sometime you can stop by the great state of Wisconsin. As a mother of two young sons I can get to Green Bay, Milwaukee, or Madison, but can't travel too much further than that for a day trip until they get older.
Congratulations on another terrific story. I read as slow as I could and still the ending came too quickly. The most difficult thing now is knowing that it will be another few years before the next book(s) will be out! You deserve a break, I know, but Book 8 can't come quick enough! :>) Enjoy your scotch and all the well deserved praise!!!
BTW – I preordered and purchased An Echo in the Bone, but only checked The Lost Symbol out of the library.
Thank you so much for coming to Dayton, Ohio! Love Echo! I look forward to the eighth book.
Picture from the Greene:
http://handyhooker.blogspot.com/2009/10/diana-gabaldon-echo-in-bone.html
I plan to buy it, but not until it comes out in the UK so I can order the edition with the pretty blue cover! Right now I'm 77th on the library waiting list of 366, since there's no way I can possibly wait until January to read it, though.
I loved Echo but I'm sad that it's over. I really want book 8. Your a wonderful writer
I do admit to thinking, that rat Diana! I have to wait three years to see how at least five cliffhangers end!
But it will be worth the wait!
Thank you Diana, for giving us these beautiful characters. You cannot imagine what Jamie has done for my marriage *wink*. I am so happy to hear there is a book 8! I love everything you write!
I just finished "Echo" and am already having "Outlander" withdrawal. Diana, I know you deserve a nice long break…but when will the next book be out? Maybe shorter but more frequent books would be better. Start writing girl…it's your fault for this pressure..you left us hanging and in dire need of more Jamie, Claire, et all. Thank you Diana for your hard work and creativity. We all (your fans) love you.
I finished Echo last night, and just picked it up again this afternoon to start a second read-through. Your characters are so near and dear to me, that it was like sending friends off on a long voyage when I came to the end of this book. I just discovered the Outlander series this past year and have reveled in being able to go from book to book without a pause, then listen to them all once more on audiobook while waiting the short time for An Echo in the Bone to be published.
I'll see you next week in Seattle–can't wait!