Well. I _really_ hate writing this, and I do apologize….but the pub date for MOBY is moving.
Two reasons for this:
1. The first—and by far the most important—is that I began to realize about a month ago that I needed a little more time in order to finish the book the way it needs to be done. I could get the necessary wordage on paper by the end of the year—but it wouldn’t be _good_. Good takes more time. And I’m really sorry, but you’re not getting a book that’s less than the best I can do.
2. The second thing has to do with the new Starz tv show. Two things about _that_:
a. While the original guess as to the date for the series release was April, that _was_ only a guess. In New York last month, the Starz people were telling me (and the assorted fans present; it’s not a secret) that it will be (take your pick), “June,” “July,” “August,” or “summer.” So, you know…later.
b. While I don’t have (and don’t want) “control” over anything to do with the show, I actually am (by contract) a consultant. And while I told the production people that I considered my main job to be staying out of their way, they are amazingly generous about including and involving me. And I am actually required to do promotional things for the PR side of the production. Sooo….am I going to say, “Sorry, I can’t be paying attention to all this fascinating stuff going on, and I’m not going to New York Comic Con, because I have to stay home and finish my novel?” Errr….no. (I mean, really—would _you_?)
So. I would have told you this a week or so ago, but once I’d made the decision that I needed an extra two months to do the book properly, all of the publishers needed to be officially informed. (Publishers hate finding out important things on Twitter or Facebook.)
Now, it’s up _to_ those publishers now to decide on a new pub date. They need to take into consideration all kinds of things, including the new date for the tv show’s release (not that there is an _official_ date as yet—and even if there was, it could move. Stuff Happens, as I’ve told you before), plus the usual considerations—where they can find a good slot in their existing schedule, what’s a good time of year for it, and so on.
I don’t have any idea what the new pub date might be. I’ll tell you the minute we know. But my immediate concern is for all the people I’ve seen this week excitedly making plans to come and see me in Portland or wherever.
Since the pub date is moving….I’m afraid (and my Deep Apologies to the poor publicists) all the tour events will have to be rescheduled, once a new date is chosen.
Now, I know a lot of you have been ordering tickets to the Portland event on April 6th. I’ll talk to the Random House people and the Portland people, and see what can be worked out. I’m happy to go and do that event, even if it’s not part of the official book-tour, if the organizers want that. But that’s up to them. I _will_ do my best to make sure you aren’t harmed by the change, though.
I’m sorry about this, and I thank you for your patience and understanding.
A friend turned me onto Outlander years ago…and I’ve waited with baited breath every book that followed. I’m thrilled there will be another…and even more thrilled at the upcoming Starz series. So glad it’s a British production and cast…..can’t wait!
You goo girl! Customer service has long been forgotten. I am happy to wait for an awesome product. You do put out an awesome product Diane! Thank you
I first enjoyed the Outlander series before going to Scotland for the first time. I listened to the audiobook versions while driving. Love Davina Porter! Her voice brought the characters alive for me. I so hope she will read your newest book as well.
I noticed in the comments that you were scheduled to come to Portland in April. I hope I have not missed this! Is this Portland Oregon where I live? This would be such a treat for me. Did I miss it or was the date changed? I am so looking forward to the Stars series. Can’t wait!
Elizabeth
Dear Elizabeth–
I’ll be in Portland in early July–the first or second, I think. Check the “Appearances” section here for more details.
–Diana
It’s April 15 and it appears that Diana is finishing up. Way to go, Diana! Hit “Send” and please go collapse for a few days! (Hopefully you aren’t also trying to do taxes!)
Diana,
I had been looking for an Author to fill the void left by the passing of Diana Norman/Ariana Franklin. I am hoping an equally talented ghostwriter will finish her Mistress of the Art of Death series (wink wink…nudge nudge). Your name kept coming up, and I am so glad I gave The Outlander Series a shot! I don’t have time to start completly over before your next book is released…so for now I will bide my time with Dan and Khaled whose’ books I preordered…..and have yet to glance at!
Thank you for bringing history into a perspective that means so much to me. Having a ball with these books!
Sincerely your devoted reader,
Morgan Stevens
AAAAND I finally learned to like Single Malt, but it has to be the good stuff.
Glad for the delay as I’m re-reading them all and I’m only on book #5. I’ll be ready for #8 whenever it comes out. Hopefully in time for beach-time this summer!!!!!!!!!!!
Get a grip people, deep breath, it’s not so bad… according to the crowd that I purchase and pre-order through they will be releasing Novel #4 in January 2099. Now that would really be something worthy of a whine.
Note: I keep meaning to place an order and see just what happens… delivery C/- Pearly Gates Ever Lasting Rest, Here Ever After (ask for Peter).
They’d probably just email me to advise that my credit card had declined. Funny that.
Thanks for STILL being the BEST!
Hello Ms. Gabaldon – - I know that this thread is sort of dedicated to the 8th book of your fantastic series – - but I just wanted to take a moment and comment on the brilliance of ALL your books (especially the Lord John Series
I just picked-up and finished “The Space Between” and it was so great as well. No author around today writes quite like you and I have NEVER found a book series that drew me in quite like “Outlander”. I have laughed, cried, and hurt right along side of your characters and I am absolutely delighted to wait for the next book as long as it takes … The fact that the book is due out on my birthday is just an added bonus 
Happy Birthday to me!! Your writing is one of a kind and I hope that I have the pleasure of meeting you sometime in the future … I know you have never made an appearance in MT, but I will be first in line if you ever make it to our neck of the woods! Thank you so much for all of the fantastic novels and I am absolutely over-the-moon-excited to read MOBY! Good luck with the series, the book, and any other ventures you might be undertaking!
I love the other ones too Laura. Only book I don’t have is the companion. Just got The Exile. The books have made me laugh and cry too. Bit embarrassing when you have a little snigger when you’re reading and you’re not alone.
WOW!?! Reading through these comments I can’t believe how negative and rude some people have been.
I have loved reading and re-reading your books. Yes I had the ‘oh no’ thought when publication was delayed, but as plenty of others have said it’s worth the wait.
I have it pre-ordered on kindle and want to buy the paper back version too to add to my collection.
So excited there is also going to be a 9th book. Will have plenty of time to re read before that one comes out.
Your writing is FABULOUS Diana, thank you.
JUST UNDER A MONTH TO GO PEOPLE!!!! WOOHOO!!!
Appreciating the hard work you put into your blog and in depth information you
provide. It’s great to come across a blog every once in a while
that isn’t the same out of date rehashed material. Great read!
I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.