See the note below—this post is from July 6, 2014 and is a bit outdated…
I’m about to head back out in a few hours, to do my _last_ US/Canadian book-tour event in Traverse City, MI. But thought I might grab an hour to do a bit of updating before I absquatulate again…
First—I’m delighted that so many of you like MOBY!* Thank you so much for all your kind words.
As for the next book(s), I have no idea.** I finished writing MOBY on April 15th (having stayed up 36 hours straight to do it), spent the rest of April working 16 hours a day to finish the copyedits and galley proofs, then spent most of May dealing with everything (including stuff associated with the TV show) that was pushed out of the way during the Final Frenzy of MOBY. And on June 7th, all hell broke loose and I’ve essentially been on the road for a solid month, with three brief touchdowns at home (ranging from 12 hours to a whole day-and-a-half). So far, I’ve signed roughly 38,000 copies of MOBY and will undoubtedly hit between 40-50,000 by the end of summer. (No, I don’t have carpal-tunnel syndrome, but thank you for your concern.)
Now, I realize that it’s difficult to know what to say to a writer at a book-signing; I’d be tongue-tied myself, in the presence of someone I admired but didn’t know. It’s always great to hear, "I loved this book!" or "I love your books and I’m really looking forward to reading this one!" if you need a default. "WHEN WILL BOOK NINE BE OUT?!?" is possibly a little less welcome.
But I do appreciate the enthusiasm/impatience that spawn this question, so here’s what my immediate writing future looks like (assuming I survive the rest of the summer):
At the moment, there are only scraps of Book Nine—plus a useful "What I Know" document that I wrote right after finishing MOBY, about the "shelf-hung" subplots (those are bits that are kind of folded back on themselves, but not left as cliffhangers—like where William is going or what will happen to Lord John next).
I haven’t even formally sifted MOBY’s Mfile (the regularly updated list of files written for a specific book) and moved the remnant files to JAMIE9 (the directory/folder for Book Nine) yet (that’s a two-day job in itself). The next thing I do is to go through my major reference shelves, cleaning and tidying, and in the process, assemble the "core" shelf for Book 9–for any book, no matter how many references I consult along the way, there will end up being maybe five books that are _very_ helpful/relevant and that I use a lot, and maybe 5-10 more that I want to keep close to hand, for more limited but still important stuff. I keep one shelf for that core reference stuff, and refurbish it when I start serious work on a new novel. adding new sources as I come across them. Then I read through the relevant portions of ALMANAC OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, a _very_ useful book that gives brief notes on everything happening everywhere <g> on a given day, that had any importance in the Revolution. This is my first pass at a historical timeline (which lives in my head and evolves constantly over the course of a book). I’ll probably write bits and pieces while I’m doing these necessary chores, but it’s pretty random and nothing like the sustained effort that comes as I move fully into a book.
In other words, you’re not likely to see #DailyLines from Book Nine for awhile.
Now, there’s a _lot_ of THE OUTLANDISH COMPANION, Volume 2 in existence. I’ve been messing about with that on the side for the last 2-3 years, and most of it is _there_, if not yet tidied into its final form. There are a few chunks of original writing still to be done for that–the detailed synopsis for MOBY is the first that springs to mind, though I’ll also need to add commentary to a largish excerpt section (specialized excerpts), and a few other bits to be collected or contracted (i.e., I may have to get someone to produce things like maps or floor-plans, as I can’t do better than crude sketches on my own). But IF I move OC2 to the top of the work pile (not as the main focus, but as the main side-project), it _might_ be ready for delivery to the publisher around January, and thus might be in print sometime in the first half of 2015, which would be nice. (I also need to do slight updates to OC1, removing obsolete material and maybe improving the Gaelic Pronunciation Guide—that sort of thing.)
Then there’s the HOW TO (AND HOW _NOT_ TO) WRITE SEX-SCENES ebook. That’s actually complete, but I finished it right before both the show and MOBY hit high gear, so I now need to read it through again and do final fiddles (and maybe include a few scenes from MOBY), then run it past my agent for response and suggestions (if any). Ebooks can be produced _very_ fast, though, so once we’re happy with it, it could be out within a couple of months–I’d kind of like to have it out this fall, but that’s a matter for discussion with agents, publishers, etc.
And more or less on the same level with Book Nine (in terms of how eager I am to work on them) are the prequel volume about Jamie’s parents (for which I have only fragments at the moment) and the first contemporary crime novel. I think I have about half of that, and it’s "live" for me–but will take a good bit of intensive work, both in terms of research and writing. On the other hand, it’s short by comparison with everything else on my menu.
And on the outskirts of my mind are the germs of what might eventually be novellas, but I haven’t had the time even to _look_ at those with any attention. They _are_ brief, though, and I might well pick one up to get back into my regular routine–come September. I’ll be traveling/working most of July and August, and won’t have anything like peace and quiet ’til Labor Day. (No, I’m not going to Dragon Con this year, unless Starz decides they want to have a presence there for the show, and at the moment, they don’t.)
In the meantime, any eager soul who foolishly asks me, "When will Book Nine be out?" will be politely ignored. Or bonked on the head with the copy of MOBY they just asked me to sign, depending…
*(And for those few who complained that the ending of MOBY was a cliffhanger….go back and read the end of AN ECHO IN THE BONE, to see what one actually looks like. <g> If you just wanted to "see" what happened next in MOBY…feel free to fill in your own version of "OMG! OMG! OMG! <hughughug> <weep tears of joy> OMG! OMG! OMG! <broken endearments> OMG? OMG? OMG? <hopping up and down> OMG!" I have complete faith in my readers’ intelligence and imagination, and I don’t tell y’all things I know you can figure out for yourselves.)
**Webmistress’s Note on August 28, 2015: A lot has changed in the year since Diana posted the blog above on July 6, 2014:
- See Diana’s Book Nine webpage for excerpts (aka "Daily Lines") and current information.
- The revised, updated and expanded version of THE OUTLANDISH COMPANION, VOLUME ONE, was published on March 31, 2015 in the U.S.A. This ultimate guide to the OUTLANDER series covers the first four major novels: OUTLANDER, DRAGONFLY IN AMBER, VOYAGER, and DRUMS OF AUTUMN. (The original OC was published in 1999. The U.K. edition of this guide was titled THROUGH THE STONES.)
- THE OUTLANDISH COMPANION, VOLUME TWO will be published in the U.S.A. on October 27, 2015. OC II is the guide to the second four major novels in the OUTLANDER series: THE FIERY CROSS, A BREATH OF SNOW AND ASHES, AN ECHO IN THE BONE, and WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD (aka "MOBY").
I’m just glad to hear that there are more “book(s)” on the way! Will wait patiently for more tales of the Fraser clan, as MOBY was so satisfying. Thanks Diana!!
Dear Diana, After reading the first book, all those years ago, I could just SEE the story made into a film. As the series progressed and was read, not only by me but my granny, mum, aunts, daughter, husband and friends, it was obvious this had MASS appeal !! This Outlander TV series absolutely must be screened in New Zealand (where we now live), and if not – I will upsticks and MOVE !! Regards, Sally
Sally,
If you are not already aware, the first eight episodes of Outlander are available on Lightbox (the newish Spark venture) in New Zealand. No need to go back….besides we’re having a great spring here!
Chris
Sal ., they thankfully film in Scotland . Some places are just a few miles from me .im loving the TV series .i have just bought the first novel to read ,though my Aunt who has read all the books said she couldn’t watch the series ,as in her mind the characters IE Jamie and Claire didn’t look as she imagined
I watched the first 8 episodes and enjoyed the adventure. However, I, too, was disappointed that the actors didn’t fit the descriptions of how I imagined Jamie and Claire. I wanted the actors to look like their book characters. I have reread all the books each time a new one comes out. Passed on books to others, getting them hooked. Diana, you write with such detail that I feel I’m right in the story, watching Claire’s medical procedures and sharing the characters’ experiences with them. Ready for book 9.
Dear Carol–
It beats me how anyone can reasonably expect that the actors in a show will somehow magically match any individual’s mental picture of characters in a book, but if that’s how your imagination works…I hope you go on enjoying the books!
Best,
–Diana
Personally I was glad that the actor selected to play Jamie did not match the description in the book. He was much better! The constant description of long straight nose does not come across as an attractive facial feature. Sam Heughan is exceedingly easy on any eyes. Great choice. The book always describes Claire as busty and places a lot of emphasis on her eye color. As a female I can certainly forego the busty description. However, the eye color was more important to the theme and color enhancement or contacts could have solved that problem. In my view the book description of Claire could have only been satisfied in my view by a young Catherine Zeta-Jones. The more important factor in my view was whether or not the two actors play well together an portray the necessary chemistry. From that standpoint, EXCELLENT job of casting!
I know, right, Christine? *knowing look* We both know who it is at the end that a certain character spies with her little eyes and glasses.
I am glad to see there will be a ninth book. I could see MOBY being the last book but I’m thrilled I won’t have to imagine what happens after. I think I’ll start at the beginning again, so I’ll be caught up when the next one comes around.
Thanks for writing such amazing books.
Talk about starting at the beginning again…..I have read the whole Outlander series twice. I’m on pins and needles waiting for book nine.
Only twice!!!!
Yeah, I’ve actually lost count. Definitely read them all twice but the particular favourites its been up to 4x times. Very glad to hear at the least book 9 hasn’t been ruled out. The other books do sound interesting but I think the majority of fans will always hold their breath for the next outlander book to come.
In the most grateful sense… I would ask that you take your vitamins Diana, we need you writing this series for a very long time!!
I haven’t read MOBY yet but I have read the first 7 books at least 6 times and LJG books at least 3. I just haven’t had the money for MOBY but was given a book voucher for Christmas and guess which book it is?? MOBY!!!!
Only twice!!!!
Every time a new book was due to come out I read the whole lot from the beginning again so how many times have I read the first one eight times I suppose.
I finished the 8th book an hour ago and I’m already missing Jamie & Claire. I’ve read the Outlander series twice in the last 11 months and book 8 three times. I love the history, romance and the beautiful writing skills of the author. I’m 62 years old and I told my husband tonight that if it takes Diana four years to write an Outlander book I might only get to read six more books. LOL I’m dreading tomorrow as I play back in my mind what’s going on at Fraser Ridge, where is William, how will the younger kids grow into the picture, will William come back to find Fanny a beautiful young women, will there be another cousin twist with William and Germain loving the same women (Fanny), will Mr. Christie come back to the Ridge and hook up with Jenny to only find out her son killed his son, will P. Beauchamp be from the future and related to Claire, will Works With Her Hands come back into Ian and Rachel’s lives, what will Brianna & Roger bring with them from the future, and which characters from the future will follow Brianna & Roger back for the gold and most important… how will it all end? The ending is what I play over in my head often. I have an ending to the story in my mind in case I don’t make it to book 15. But, until then I shall check out this new book Moby tomorrow? Sign me out as Missing the Fraser Clan.
I finished reading In My Own Heart’s Blood two weeks after it came out. A friend of mine is still in the area of book 4 or 5. As for MOBY’s ending, I’d like to say, I can live with it. My imagination is sufficient enough to form the rest of the stories of the main characters and I am happy with that. So no, as much as I would like a book nine, I think you have done an excellent job in bringing things to a close Diana! You are a gifted writer, and I can understand why people would want more from you, but I would never want to read a book where our Jamie and Claire pass on. This way they will live on in my mind for eternity. That’s what true love is (eternal) anyways, isn’t it? Well done Diana! Well done!
Dear Nancy–
Well…there _is_ a Book Nine, I’m afraid, whether you want it or not. [g] Hope you’ll enjoy it when the time comes!
Best,
–Diana
Diana
Thank you for putting this note here that there will be a 9th book. I hope it will not take 5 years but I will be waiting for it none the less.
You and Davina Porter captured my heart and interest from the very start. It was not long into the telling of the story that my wife became hooked as well. Your story telling and Davina’s voice gave life to the story like no other book has. I am reading it again for the third time from beginning to end (book 8). I have passed the title of the book on to many people and all have told me the same that the story is amazing. So on behalf of many people thank you.
Bob
PS. I do have some suggestions on the next book if you like.
I just love that “Davina Porter” is Brian Fraser’s mother according to the Outlander Family Tree–(wink, wink).
Diana thank you for your books – I love them, esp the medical stuff ( I’m a nurse) I’m glad there will be a 9th. As a grandparent I hope Jaime and Claire will have the opportunity to enjoy, love on, teach and learn more from their children and grandchildren. It makes having kids really WORTH it. Thank you for Jaime and Claire’s family who have become like family to your readers. Love the TV show- wow they are doing it right. Remember to take time to take care of yourself.
Amazing. I have read few books multiple times. The Godfather and Gone with the Wind co me to mind and then the whole Outlander series. Book 9 the number of upheaval and change. It make me happy to read about the family reuniting. Thank you!
hi just finshed readimg moby. it was a long wait but well worth it. we did not get it here in England till augs. now I see there is a tv series. I hope we get to see it here as well will just sit and wait for next book. regards Margaret
Dear Margaret–
Maybe you didn’t notice it until August [g], but I assure you, it was published in early June, at the same time as the US edition. Glad you enjoyed it!
–Diana
Oh Joy, Oh joy!!!!
Thank you Diana!!!
Diana, I must agree with Nancy…..A wonderful ending with the last book. I’m excited for another, yet if you change your mind another wouldn’t be nesessary….Bravo!
Nuh uh! Don’t listen to her! You keep going with 9,10, 11….(g)
Bonnye Garman
I have to agree the ending of the last book was wonderful, leaving lots of questions to be answered. I can’t agree that another book isn’t necessary, as the story has not yet reached its conclusion. You wouldn’t be happy if a film or TV series ended without finishing the story, would you? The only difference here is that Diana is writing this on her own. I can wait. I don’t want to, but as Diana is not superwoman, I’ll have to and buy it as soon as I can.
Thanks for being such an amazing writer!! When reading your books, it feels like i am there.. you are such a visual writer!! Eagerly awaiting 10!!
Thank heavens, Mrs. Evans!!!
Thank you for these wonderful books that I have enjoyed and now get to enjoy the show!!!
Diana
I must say that, although I adore the Outlander series and all things related, I am more than a bit disappointed and craving more concerning Jem’s, et al, journeys! Book 9?
Dear Debbie–
How can you be disappointed in a book that doesn’t yet exist? I’ve just begun to engage with Book 9; it’ll be along in the fullness of time.
Best,
–Diana
No, no. I meant will Jem’s journeys be in Book 9? Just curious, and it is just the ending of MOBY that left me craving more….so, job well done. I, too, will be patient and look forward to your many other offerings.
Well…it would be interesting to know that if Claire passes on in the past….she is bound to be born in the future once again?…..What then? Will she have scraps of memory of her past life in her mind????? Interesting…no???
Diana, I’m thrilled to hear you will write book 9. HOWEVER, I’m 83 years old, so please hurry.
I know what you mean,i am 63 and feel the same apprehension,these characters have opened up a whole new life for me.
I am 75…ditto regarding the concern…doubt that I will be time traveling to read books 11 and 12, worse luck.
Ginger,
I just turned 80, so I understand your desire to have book 9 finished as soon as humanly possible.
Diana, you do a superb job of bringing your characters to life!!
Dear Diana,
Your books, translated in Dutch were bought by me.
I told my parents about them and they were reading them too, and later on my youngest son now 21 is also a big fan.
But we lost my dad 4 years ago, and he really wanted to read book 8, my mum is now 80 years old and is reading book 8 now and asked me to mail you not to wait to long with book 9.
Further I want to tell you because of your books we (my husband, son and myself) visited Schotland and the special places like Culloden etc. this summer. And we had a great time.
Greets your fans from the Netherlands
My sentiments exactly, Ginger.
The only downside with the Outlander series is that it makes all other books less desirable to read. The Fraser clan take over!!
The series has been a life saver to me after my husband died.
Heartfelt thanks Diana
Thank you for book 9!! Your books are amazing and I’m hooked!! I will patiently wait for the next book.
I am so glad that there will be a Book Nine! As I do agree with Nancy and DO NOT want to hear of Jamie & Claire passing on, it felt so….unfinnished with the ending in MOBY. I am patiently awaiting the next “chapter” in this amazingly wonderful story! (Trying extremely hard to be patient!)
Thank you Diana for giving us all this wonderful story!
Warmest Regards,
Fran
I have just read about Rogers parents . Now there is only MOBY left, [VIRGINS too when i get it ] I think I will leave MOBY and reread and listen to all the others again , knowing that it is there safe on my shelf comforts me. I loved that you are going to write one about Jamies’ parents .I read the Christmas gift you gave us about them and had tears in my eyes while reading it and i don’t know why. I laugh and cry reading your books.
Do you think you will ever come to BRISBANE QLD AUSTRALIA ?
I would love to see you if you do.
THANK YOU DIANA FOR CARING ABOUT YOUR FANS.
FROM CAROL
Who says either Jamie or Clare would have to die for more books to be written. It is time travel, and they are still young enough to be grandparents, and even great grandchildren growing up, raising up other characters, traveling through the stones, and there are people like Dotty and Gerry who could make a comeback. Dotty could have fallen through time, and Gerry never really finished his story. Then there is Brianna and Roger and their precocious children, and Ian and Rachel, and Fergus and Marsali and they could grow up to have their own stories that are exciting adventures that twist and turn a whole lot like their Jamie and Clare’s story has.
Have been needing something that suited me to be placed on my gravestone. As a musican I thank you for, “Thig crioh air an t-saoghal ach mairidh ceol agus gaol”
Hurray!! Just finished the 8th one and ready for more. Would like more details about Bree and Roger and how they finally traveled to the correct time.
Since I hadn’t been expecting there to be a Book Nine, this is really good news – even if it means another year or more waiting for it to become available for us all to read! Reconciling myself to the series’ apparently being complete was peaceful, if a little sad.
Thanks for all your heroic efforts to carry on the good work, which I’ll look forward to reading as soon as it gets published in the UK.
Best wishes,
DIANA
yippy!!!
I’ve read all your books and am starting over. Don’t wait too long for #9, please!! I’m 74 and hopefully will outlive the time it takes for you to complete the series! I’m like the other woman tho – I don’t want to see Claire and Jamie die. Also…the TV Outlander is GREAT!
Yes Ma’am; I am ready and very happy you’ve decided on book nine. I wait patiently… Kathy S. Mackey
I am glad, glad, glad, that there is more to come. I do however agree with the sentiment of the previous comment. When Brianna and family are sited on the ridge
It transformed the story. I think we all took a deep breath and let out a sigh of relief that the family was rejoined. As for Claire and Jamie’s eventual demise, their lives have already defied time and place, surely it will conquer the afterlife.
Of course we need book #9! My imagination doesn’t come close to that of Diana’s! I’m on my third go-around and absolutely cannot wait for the next book.
No, the stories of all the characters are far from complete. Like how did Roger and Bree manage to get to the right year after landing in the wrong one, what happens to William, John Grey, Jamie and Claire after Bree arrives. There is still more to tell and the war is still going on and I am betting will reach Fraser’s Ridge eventually. I don’t know about others, but I need that 9th book to tie up all the loose ends. Liz
Liz, the reason Roger and Buck went to the wrong year was that Roger concentrated on the name Jeremiah instead of Jem and found his father rather than his son. The reason the family found Jamie and Claire (without incident?) is because there are no other characters they could ever mistakenly fix on when they mean Claire and Jamie… Happy reading and waiting patiently for B9. By the way, whatever happened to Buck? (eyebrows going rapidly up and down…). Carole
I’m also very glad that there will be a new book! I’m an avid reader and I have a hard time finding authors I especially enjoy reading. Mary Stewart, Susan Cooper, and Susanna Kearsley are some of the few in my list of special favorites. By the time I was midway through Outlander you had been firmly placed in that list. I can’t wait to see where you take the characters I’ve come to love next! Best wishes on the new Outlander Series (which I set up as a series recording as soon as it was possible to do so) and many more wishes for continuous inspiration as you work to bring the Fraser family and their many adventures back into our homes!
Thx for sharing your list of fav authors. You might like Mary Doria Russell, another cross-genre author. Like this series, I had to reread her first three immediately-could not let go of the characters. Other huge favs include Robin McKinley, Anne McCaffrey, Patrcia McKillip.
Another author I reread each decade is Dorothy Dunnett.. 2 storylines.. lots of books to keep you busy and happy.
I have not loved a series of books as much as Dorothy Dunnett’s 2 different series until I discovered these books.
Little denser and many more characters to keep track of… not for everyone.
Lynnoel,
Another first-rate series is the one written by Patrick O’Brian, of “Master and Commander” fame. There are 20 novels in the series. Not a romance series, but it does have romance in it (no graphic representations of sex, which is fine by me), but if you like well-written novels, engaging characters, and a real sense of nautical history (during the Napoleonic years) you will love this series. You will probably remember “Master and Commander” with Russell Crowe as Captain Aubrey. Well, it’s the first book of the series. Not thick novels generally. But, O’Brian packs a lot into them. They give you a real sense of the time, the limitations of medical knowledge and practice and the rigors of British Naval life. Maybe you need more male genes to appreciate this. But, give it a try. Deeper by far than the Hornblower series.
Dear Diana,
My mom and I read all of the then available Outlander books when I was a teenager. I recently reared all of them to my husbands disgrace. He didn’t see much of me for two months…. Just in time for book #8. But then I realized I had to wait 6 extra weeks because I read the series in German. Well, the wait was worth it’s while thanks to the newly discovered Lord John saga and novellas.
I love the never ending adventures, history intermingled with fantasy, the nature, and the characters the reader would love to be related to. The saga is a great escape from the daily routine. It constantly makes me smirk. It’s exciting and relaxing, as well as philosophical. I like to juxtapose the changing family dynamics of the Frazers’ world and our world of individualism and industrialism. Sometimes I would like to travel back in time.
Please, please, please, after all your hard work, take a vacation and take your time with your next project so that I will be as exciting as the current 8 books. And you deserve a break! Us readers will all wait patiently and appreciate the result the better.
In the mean time there is the TV series which I personally will not watch – at least not for now. Taking a brief peak at Claire’s actress (blue eyes, too dark hair and too skinny) does not fit her description (thus other actors probably won’t as well). I prefer to keep my own images of the characters at least until I have read all Outlander books that will ever exist.
Thank you! With deepest admiration for you’re work,
Maria
Dear Maria–
Your choice, but I think you might change your mind, if you see these people _act_, as opposed to comparing still photos to your mental images of the book. Starz is offering the first episode free online (on http://www.starz.com, on YouTube, and on various On Demand channels) from now through Sept. 28th, so you got nothing to lose! [g]
Best,
–Diana
Diana,
My husband and I just watched the preview on Starz. The casting of Jamie, Claire, Frank/Jack, Dougal et al was better than I could have EVER hoped for!
Outstanding job all around!
I have to say- I became a fan of the series as soon as the theme song was over, and as such I am going to buy and read all the books. So far, it seems like the series is a page for page re-creation, which I love, because I fell in love with Claire and Jamie based on the strength of the writing in the series, and the books (haven’t been able to put Outlander down yet!) are even better so far. Part of me wants to see what happens, and the other part doesn’t want to “spoil” the series :).
I work for a museum, and the costuming is top notch. I think the casting is amazing as well. Catrionia (sp) Balfe was a perfect choice for Claire!
We are only heading into the 3rd episode in Canada & the preview shows Claire confiding that she came from the future to Mrs Fitz , the housekeeper which was not what happened in the book . I suppose that something has to change so that the first book is accomplished in one season .
The casting of the actors is amazing . Looking at the stills I thought that it would be disappointing but they are just right . ..especially Frank aka Jack & Dougal..truly dangerous.
Thank Diana for Moby , well done all around
Well the TV series is definitely not the same as the book, but I have not been upset by the changes made. When I heard a series was being made I was excited, but had no idea how they were going to manage it when there are so many story lines and so many characters in the book. I have been quite pleased with the episodes. The story line stays pretty true to the plot and ambiance of the book, and the changes to the details are acceptable. As long as I remember that as I watch the shows, I really enjoy it. I have been confused a few times, because there are some characters in the show that are not in the book, and some characters in act differently in the show (Angus? Is this supposed to be the same as Angus Mor?) I’m not sure, but I have really enjoyed the series and am looking forward to watching more.
The actors chosen to play Claire and Jamie have become my friends as the characters in the books have. Good work. Cait portrays Claire’s spunk and courage. Sam is a very handsome and believable Jamie. I humbly suggest that the actors chosen for Roger and the two Ians be picked from the male cast of the Spartacus series. The majority of them are all of a size and rugged looking. Just saying.
I have reread the books every summer for the past six years. Diana, you have
the most amazing talent. I wonder if you shut down that talent so you may rest.
You are my favorite author.
Dear Diana,
I completely agree regarding the actors in the STARZ series! They are spot on so far and I am a self-proclaimed expert in the Outlander Series, only because I have been reading and re-reading each book starting when I was 19:). You are so talented…I know and love Jamie and Claire and their extended family as if they were part of my own, and you made them perfectly real, perfectly flawed, perfectly relatable. Thank you so much for faithfully continuing to give us all our Outlander fix as only you can! Having already finished the latest book, I will happily start the series over again(probably several times) and patiently await book 9!
Hi Diana,
Thank you so much for the newest book. I just finished it and realized that it could be the last as it wrapped up several things, so was glad to read that there will be another one. YES!
I’ve been reading here the comments of others about the series and I have to admit that I immediately realized that Jamie’s hair wasn’t bright enough and Claire’s was too dark, and now that I’ve read other’s comments, I admit that ‘my’ Claire is not so thin, but really they are doing a wonderful job. I’m waiting for tomorrows which is the 4th episode.
I’m impressed with the quality of the series. I’ve been disappointed with other books that have been made into a movie. This one is wonderful.
I have to admit that occasionally while ready MOBY, the actors’ images occasionally peaked through, but all and all my mental images have stayed with me and they are the ones I originally fell in love with.
So, thanks again, Diana!
Delores
My husband is now seeing by way of the show why I love these books. Thank you.
Dear Maria-
I felt the same way when I first saw the actors chosen for the TV series. Didn’t think they would be very good. However, I tried to keep positive, and watch the first episode. They are amazing!! Can’t get enough of the Fraser Clan, in books or on TV. Give it a go!!
The actors chosen for the TV series didn’t match the images in my head at all. Especially since I’ve only listened to the audiobooks and haven’t read the actual books. (Davina Porter does such an excellent job!) But evaluating the actors on their own, I do quite like them.
Looking forward to the continuing adventures. Thanks so much for all your excellent work, Diana! MOBY is the best of the whole series, I think.
Diana-
Just finished my third reading of the Outlander series, ending this time with MOBY. (I think I have read all of the Lord John stories.) I’m also looking forward to Book 9. Some of the things I think will be included: more of Bree’s familys’ adventures before winding up in Frasier’s Ridge, maybe some more about Jamie’s earlier life, when Roger arrived, more about Fergus’s supposed ancentry… Can you tell I’m a frustrated writer? (I started writing when I was 18, (I’ll soon be 73) and got told by John W. Campbell that what I had written was a 150-page outline for a series. Unfortunately, I never got much further.)
BTW, I LOVE your framed novelistic license!
I caught the free first episode from Starz. The script was just perfect! (Of course, with you as a consultant, how could they go wrong?!) I am in awe of your writing stamina.
Dear Helen–
Hey, you don’t know what you can do until you try, do you? [g]
Really glad you enjoyed both the books and the first bit of the TV show–hope you’ll be able to watch the rest soon!
Best,
–Diana
I saw the first episode of Starz Outlander and the guy paying Jamie is fabulous. Talk about having Jamie Frazer come to life. However the Irish actress playing Claire is a disappointment. Couldn’t they have fiund a true English actress? I’ve nothing against the Irish being part Irish and Scottish myself. This actress s just not Claire!
Diana I am obsesssed, obsessed, OBSESSED. I just recently discovered your book series due to watching the great programs on STARZ. After I watched the first 8 episodes of Outlander, I ran to the nearest bookstore to get my own copy of Outlander. Finished it in no time and cannot wait to watch the remaining episodes on STARZ in April. Jaime and Claire are my favs. And I cannot imagine anyone better for the role in the series as Sam and Caitrona. I must confess to having a huge crush on Sam, I mean Jaime. You know I mean. O
Sadly I envisioned them differently. I saw Claire as maybe “Eva Green”, beautiful, strong, sexy, smart, curly hair and shapely. Jaime as “Chris Hemsworth”, tall, cat eyes, gorgeous, etc. I do have to admit that Sam is very handsome and has been very convincing….he is growing on me. Caitriona is a very classy, gorgeous actress but she carries herself like a model and is just not convincing. Too thin maybe…..
Anyways, it is in production now so I am hoping that the second half of the season will completely captivate me and I will just embrace it as is. I suppose in the end that we all see something different in our mind’s eye as we read these wonderful novels that DG has created for us.
Love this series DG….keep them coming please.
Jamie Fraser ………….Dr.Who????
Interesting….I came to the audio book version of Outlander from watching the first half of the series this Fall….I was thrilled to find all the books on Audible and devoured them all over the past couple of months…my perspective from seeing Claire and Jamie in the series is they were beautifully cast and their faces have carried over into my audio listening. Living vicariously through Claire…I anxiously await Book 9….how does one get notified of its status? Can’t wait til April for the second half of the season!
The show is great, and maybe its just me, but it cannot replace reading the books. There is so much more going on that the TV series cannot capture.
I agree with Diana re casting of the Outlander series. I am a long term fan of her work and was sceptical about any producer or director being able to cast characters of whom I had almost 3-D mental images and certainly firmly held views on their projection on screen. HOWEVER, the casting for the series has been masterful and although nothing really beats the rich detail that reading a book can provide over watching an hour of television, it has been done with due respect to the following that Diana has, and with honesty and integrity to the stories. So far at least.
And kudos to Diana if she has been able to maintain some creative control. As Colleen McCullough found when “The Thorn Birds” was being made for screen, it can quickly turn to crap if the integrity of the work gets lost in the “crap factory” of some film and television makers.
Mary Anne
Melbourne
Australia
Love the books and am loving the TV series as well – the casting and scenery are spot-on.
As for Claire’s actress being too skinny for the part, bear in mind Claire has just nursed through a gruelling war – perhaps she’ll fatten up a little as the series progresses!
They weren’t as I thought they would be BUT they are brilliant
When I heard Outlander was to be a tv series I was thrilled. But… did I remember everything? Been a while since I had read it. Then in an airport in Las Vegas I see the paper back! yeah. That was July 8th.
Read it and thought well I need to read the next one again. long story short today is Aug. 9th and I’ve reread all the books including the new one. Now what will I do? My need, and make no mistake it was a need, made me buy a Kindle and purchase all the books again. Money well spent.
Now on to Lord John etc…
I won’t ask about the next book…
My sentiments exactly.
I just bought the Lord John series, so I’ll stay busy with that for now. Thanks to Diana for her excellent work ethic and for giving us these little side gifts to keep us from going crazy while we wait for the next masterpiece. All my love and best wishes to D. 
Thank you for your WONDERFUL books! We subscribed to STARZ so I could view the fabulous TV
series – I am beyond excited that it will continue. I am “hoarding” MOBY – because when I read it, I know it will be over much too quickly.
Thank you again,Bobbi
Dear Diana,
I have anxiously awaited your MOBY book for what seems a lifetime! I traditionally only allow myself to read a few chapters at a time because I know that it will be a long wait to the next book and I’ve never known if it was the final book! But… I simply couldn’t put this one down! So many moments that struck music to my heart and mind ~ I finished it last night and I have read the final chapter (145) at least a dozen times since! getting goosebumps each time ‘the moment’ of recognition happens. (There… goosebumps again!) The book was so thoughtful, intelligent and real for me I just can’t put it into words. I plan to go back and hi-light all of the moments of your brilliance: your insights; wording ~ Captivating! I am touched to the core and one day hope to get to the highlands, read the books there and explore the world where Jamie and Claire first met, the one which you have so masterfully created for me. To go through life not having experienced your gift would be a travesty! I am forever grateful!
Thank you,
Elizabeth Fife
Dear Diana,
First thank you for you lovely series! I adore it!
Second, regarding MOBY the section entitled “Thanks for all the fish”-was that a nod to Douglas Adams–”The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Universe?”
Your devoted reader,
Alina
Dear Alina–
Of course! [g]
–Diana
I did a double take when I read that, then laughed out loud. I also appreciated “Brought to you by the letters Q, E and D.” Now I’m wondering what I might have missed since I was devouring the story and probably not attending closely to the chapter headings.
I admit I have been very spoiled. I discovered your Outlander Series sometime in August of this year and found myself reading the complete series almost nonstop since then. I’d finish one and read the excerpt in the back about the next book. Then eagerly go to B&N, download the next book and start reading (love that instant gratification). I just finished book 8 and went to download the next one as I always do and was shocked to discover there wasn’t one! See – I’ve been spoiled! And now I’m where everyone else is I guess.
Diana,
You are a gifted writer. Wit, humour, research and wisdom saturate every page, with a transparency of personal influence boldly leaving it’s mark as well. Thank you for countless hours of precious self-indulgence. Your work is truly appreciated.
Absolutely thrilled there is a book 9… as I shut book 8 last night with a feeling of mourning that perhaps these characters I’ve grown to love over the course of reading this series voraciously… were gone forever. (I do admit to forcing myself to read Echo in the Bone more slowly to make it last longer.) You’re an amazing writer… waiting anxiously. But after reading your blog above… will be googling Moby… whatever that is.
Thank you so much for all your hard work. I love your books.
Charlotte
Diana,
I obviously need a 12-step program for Outlander! I start the whole series over and read while waiting for the next book (this is why I was able to fill in the dialogue while watching the series with my mother – without close captioning!) I also have all the audio books and love Davina Porter’s delivery. Thank God I’m already married to a Scot!!
Also, I have been reading the novellas and wonder if there will be any more on Michael, Joan, etc.?
The addict of your making,
Elizabeth
Dear Elizabeth–
I expect there might be. The novellas kind of come along by themselves as they’re ready, though.
Best,
–Diana
Yeah! More Outlander. Very excited and looking forward to it and also the prequel. May have to reread Lord John books and first 8 to get me through til they are out.
Unlike most of the fans here I watched the TV series first. When the hiatus between episode 8 & 9 was announced a friend wrote on Facebook that she’d have to re-read the books until the series came back in April, 2015. “What! There’s BOOKS?!!” I said (yes, apparently I have been living under a rock).
And so for the last couple of months I have been happily ensconced in the 18th century. Having just finished #8, I will now have to make myself content with the novellas and return of the TV series upon its return and drool over SH (who is doing a fantastic job btw, and IS totally Jamie Fraser for me).
Thank you for entertaining me so wonderfully with these characters, please take care of yourself and I look forward to reading many more of their adventures. Bring on book 9!!!!!!
(PS Whenever it comes, I will gladly read about the passing of Claire / Jamie, and I will cry and I will moun for them just as I did for the character who died in book #8. For without Jamie dying, “the highlander” can never be seen by Frank in Outlander. The series won’t be finished until the circle is complete)
Well, I have been listening to the entire series of Outlander and Lord John. I drive for medical transportation hense it is difficult to read, much less turn pages whilst driving. I just wanted you to kin my inner voice is Now Scottish. Thank you and thanks to Ms.porter. She is a talent given straight from the heavens as are you.
I cannot get enough…cried when Rollo died and again when Ad so showed up…and beyond excited at the end of the last book. Waiting impatiently for the next book….and the next TV series in April…you have me hooked… you are an awesome writer…keep us hanging…..
Thank you for such a great series! Every time a new book comes out, I go back and re-read the entire series again. Each time I pick up on something I missed the first (or seventh :)) time around…
I can’t tell you how much I enjoy all of your books. You are extremely talented and while I wait anxiously for the next book, I do believe you deserve a break (not too long of one though :)) I am also glad you provide us more insight on the other main characters such as Lord John. Thanks again for your hard work. We all appreciate you!
Oh I hope the next book isn’t the last one!!! I can’t seem to get enough of Claire and Jamie! They are amazing characters. I love them all!
All good things come to those who wait! I love the idea of a prequil to Jamie’s parents!!!!
Just want to say . . . I don’t think anything – movie, book series – has consumed me ever. And I simply cannot get enough. And to those who don’t think the actors fit the characters; they are, in my opinion, as perfectly cast as they can be. Maybe they were expecting a 7 foot Viking, aye?
Thank you, Ms. Gabaldon, for an epic love story, for a violence we really forget was the historic period, and for cliff-hangers that keep us wanting more. Please consider reconciling Jamie and William sooner than later; and is will something happen to Ian where William marries Rachel and cares for the child, or will he marry Fanny in a few years? Are you going to do a William side-story as you did with Lord John Grey. I also think your Outlander series is invigorating a lot of Scots pride. I’m ordering a Duncan kilt. By the way, you refer to the Fraser tartan as red. All I can find on-line and through emails with various kilt-makers is the Ancient – which is not verified as authentic – and a modern. Which tartan do you refer to. I want some. I could keep asking questions. I’ll just say thank you.
Dear Sandra–
There _are_ no authentic tartan setts from the mid-18th century. Textiles (especially those worn every day in harsh weather) don’t survive very well, and all that’s left, physically, are a few paintings and a few scraps of tartan reputed to have belonged to Bonnie Prince Charlie (a number of old families have such a scrap. I’ve seen, I think, three or four of them–all different [g]).
Glad you’ve been enjoying the series!
Best,
–Diana
I am one of those people who did not know what to say at your book signing and could only come up with “thanks”. So now I will expand on that. Thank you for all of your hard work and long hours. Your books are a great escape from life which can be stressful/boring/overwhelming etc. I read the first 7 consecutively when my friend introduced them to me a few years ago. My family said I was obsessed and I was. So thank you again for a great escape!
Diana,
MOBY is a wonderful book!!! I am into my first re-read of it at the moment listening to Davina Porter as I read along in the book. Wonderful way to pick up all the details I missed on the first read. I will not ask “when will book 9 be out” but I would really love to see a novella covering the time from 1739 to 1778 detailing all the trials and tribulations of Bree, Roger, Jem and Mandy. Also Buck. But, alas, I can wait for it all whenever you get around to writing it. In the meantime, I will continue re-reading and enjoying it all again. All the speculation threads on CompuServe are very interesting also.
Thank you for your perseverance in writing this story “YOUR WAY” no matter how long it takes.
Linda I was assuming that Bree, Roger, Jem and Mandy somehow used Mandy’s sense of ‘who is when’ to travel the short hop from 1739 to 1778…. I didn’t see any sign when Claire first sighted them that the children where in their 30s now?
But I haven’t done my second read yet, so maybe I missed something. Anyway we will find out in book 9 when the time comes, and in the meantime I’ll read anything Diana writes, even if its her shopping list or a recipe!
I too wondered about the time line at the end of the book. I am sure everything will be cleared up in the next book.
I completely agree Mary. When I read the last chapter I read it knowing in my mind that Roger, Bree, Jem, and Mandy had somehow traveled from 1739 to 1778. None of them appeared aged at all to me in the short sighting we had of them in the last chapter. It will be a tough wait but I will wait as patiently as I can for the next book and the next 8 episodes of the first season of the show.
Have you read the novellas that were published prior to MOBY? I believe that they help explain the time travel and timeline. I would suggest reading them. I believe I understand how they were able to do it. At least I did not question how they arrived back at the ridge.
That’s a plan. I just finished my first read of all 8 and have them on my nook. Time to start again before I go into withdrawals. I’m addicted!
I loved reading MOBY a lot and since I had expected to do so (also known as “experience”), I found the way to “stretch it” to last me 10 days: I took it with me on our outdoor vacation to Sweden. A good idea.
Can hardly wait to reread it (dear Philippe Safavi, I hope you are already translating it into French as we speak :-))
I’d love to have the Companion 2 to check things up and enjoy myself whenever the opportunity arises, so I am really happy you intend to work on it.
And since I can really live with the closure at the end of MOBY and think others should be able to do so, too :-), I adamantly propose
we all let you breathe before you start writing Nr. 9.
Thank you. I feel at peace with your last book. LOL Everything comes together very nicely and made me extremely happy to read it. (I’ve already read it three times) Your books are always filled with wonderful little tidbits of information and I love how you’ve built up the characters into people I (we the readers) can relate to. I love the way you write your books!! So thank you. I feel a great sense of completion upon finishing it, which probably sounds silly….. Thank you!
Just starting to re-read MOBY (had to lend it to my daughter). So, glad there will be another in the series. It is a great escape. I greatly appreciate your time and effort into writing the series. I’m glad it wasn’t a cliffhanger at the end. I thought it was a happy note to end the book, leaving lots of room for speculation. Historical fiction is my favorite, and you are truly superb at your craft. Thank you.
I have read the series up to MOBY 3 times, the last just before the new book. I read the “The Outlander” in the early 1980s, so after 30 years am still in love with your writing. The story is beyond anything I’ve read. I however, don’t think I can wait another 8 years, as I don’t think I’ll be here. I am a septarian. I can always take with me the spot where Frank tells Claire, that he saw a highlander in full gear looking at her window, and know that Jamie and Claire will never be apart. Thank you for this beautiful gift to us all.
Pat, I also have read the series from the beginning, and one of the items I remember clearly and felt wasn’t explored was when Frank saw the Highlander outside the window. I’ve always wondered if it will be the “loop back” in some fashion, ie a reference made in a later book. Perhaps Book 9?
Jamie mentioned to Claire, I believe in Book 7, dreaming that he saw her in a window brushing her hair. She asked him how old she looked at the time. I felt that was an explanation of the Highlander that Frank saw in the first book.
I just finished MOBY! Wonderful, as usual. I also thank you for the ending. I like things to finish nicely. Yes there are further questions as to William and Lord John. However, I had a happier experience at the end of this one rather than the last. I simply have a difficult time waiting for the next book to get my answers:) I have your entire Outlander collection and each book has been read at least 3 times! I cannot wait for the TV series – it’s noted on my calendar. Best wishes,
A faithful fan!
As above
Just a simple thank you for all your hard work, excellent imagination, and extreme generosity of letting your fans in as much as you do. Take time to take care of yourself (selfishly asked so you can continue to entertain us all), and thank you for holding out all these years as the powers that be contemplated the best method for putting this wonderful epoch on screen. I’m so looking forward to seeing it, and happy to have book 8 for my next travel adventure (to Borneo–so glad they are LONG books
Just a simple thank you for all your hard work, excellent imagination, and extreme generosity of letting your fans in as much as you do. Take time to take care of yourself (selfishly asked so you can continue to entertain us all), and thank you for holding out all these years as the powers that be contemplated the best method for putting this wonderful epoch on screen. I’m so looking forward to seeing it, and happy to have book 8 for my next travel adventure (to Borneo–so glad they are LONG books
I giggled like a teenager when I read paragraph “fiddle” in the HOW TO (AND HOW _NOT_ TO) WRITE SEX-SCENES .
Intential? Never can tell with you.
BTW- I love all of your books. I would not mind being bonked on the head by you. It’s better treatment than you have given some of your characters!
Thank you for giving so much and enriching my life.
Thank you!!!!!!! Ordered Book 8, and waiting for said book to show up. Will ditch everything else and pick that up. I think you have earned a well deserved rest……….doesn’t mean you will get it, but what the heck……try anyway……….. Thanks again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am a newbie in that I just started reading “Outlander”. Now I have owned it for probably 2 years now with a promise to myself that I’m going to get back to my regularly scheduled reading. I have not been able to put the book down. And now I’m trying to figure out how much non-stop reading I will have to do to play catch-up with everyone else and get to Book 8…and not get fired.
Thank you for giving me “reads” to look forward to. I am beyond excited…which probably means I need a life. Oh well! LOL!!!!!
Thank you, Diana! You continue to draw us into the great drama of Claire and Jamie’s lives, all with your amazing rich detail, and full of the unexpected. My husband “reads” with me with his audio books and together we have shared this Frasier journey. We both have re-read the whole series a few times. (Yes, we have lives!)
Opening MOBY scared me, as I thought it would be the last of either of the principals, and I read extra slowly…. until the gift you gave us at the end!
We will wait, not so patiently…for the next book…. I consider myself bonked!
-ellen
Loved all the time travel in MOBY. Can’t wait to find out what happened to Buck, how Brianna and family made it through the various ‘times’, how William will develop, what happens to Lord John and Hal and so many other things.
I just put MOBY down because this is usually when I like to drag out the finishing of one of your books. I think this time I will just start over from book 1. Thank you, Diana, for providing so much lovely entertainment.
Is there a reason that your Facebook account is now private, requiring people to sign into Facebook for access? I know I’m not the only anti-Facebook person around (had big security issues when I tried it several years ago).
Does this mean that (hopefully) the excerpts (“teasers” is a better term) from new writings will come back to this website?
Thank you!
Catherine
I too have the same issue. I will not be signing on to FaceBook or Twitter or…… Too bad, I can wait for updates on the web site I guess. Had my cable people in today to be able to get Showcase to view just Outlander and had to double my existing monthly cost, which they did not tell me about when I inquired. So, when I found that out, after the service guy had hooked everything up, I had the service guy unhook the whole mess and now I’m out $30 + tax (service call).
Other than that, I along with everyone else likes the whole Outlander series. Of course I’ve read and reread them time after time. The only one I just couldn’t really get into was Fiery Cross but one out of all of them, no problem.
Has the facebook site gone private or is there some other problem?
Catherine,
No, you are definitely not the only anti-Facebook person around. I am definitely in that category and I would also like to see all the information that Diana has to share with us return to this blog. I do not like to have to read through a lot of negative rude comments posted on Facebook, etc. but it seems that more information from Diana is posted there, alas.
Thank you.
After posting above I saw a note from Diana (at top right of this page) that her Facebook account now is closed to public use to prevent underage access. Having raised four children (and helping to raise six grandchildren), all I can say is, that’s a big laugh. I lied about my age as a teenager (not that I recommend it) and I’m sure my children and grandchildren have, too. If any restricting is done, the parents will have to do it–it is, after all, their responsibility.
Please, Diana, bring the material back here to your own website and don’t shut out a portion of your “fandom.” Two of my three sons are computer security experts and they both strongly urge staying away from Facebook! They both stated that my security problems that developed just after I joined Facebook definitely came from that site. I promptly deleted my FB information and membership and will not go back.
From one septerian to another, I so hope we are still around to find where Claire and Jamie are finally laid to rest.
The series has been a great help to me ,after losing my husband, 51 yrs married, just to be able to lose myself in the storyline. Have never yet found a better storyteller!!
I have a theory that when we pass on, we are given all the knowledge of everything in the Universe, so in the hopefully unlikely event that you are not in this relam when Book 9 comes out, don’t worry, you will know ALL
I turned my mom onto the Outlander Series gave the books to her as gifts over a couple years period. I had a pang of sadness when Moby came out because my mom passed away last fall and she would have loved this book. My mom was an avid reader always had at least one book going. I am glad to say that love of reading has been passed on to me and my niece who has also read the outlander series. I sent her the first three books when she went to study a semester in Scotland a few years ago. Keep up the beautiful writing Diana (which is my mother’s name also).
jean, are living in no. calif? do you still show your dogs? did bob work in clothing? I ask you this so as to catch up with a friend — and a fellow outlander addict.
take care
bobbi
Hi Diana,
Thanks for all the info will be looking for stuff.. any more Lord John?? He is pretty silly !!
I am getting to the end of Moby and loving every minute.. My clothes got done drying at the laundry mat and I really didn’t want to stop reading..
Noreen
Gosh, I first read Outlander all those years ago…..In the early 90′s, picked up a well-worn paperback from a friend, who had gotten it from a friend, and so on. She said she knew I didn’t like romance novels, but this one was so different. And boy, was she right! Slowly, but surely, it seemed everyone I knew was talking about this book and couldn’t get over Jamie – making me think of the old Led Zeppelin song lyric “looking for a woman who’s never, ever been born”, but obviously replacing woman with man in this case.
So then, I too became one of those fans that quickly finished the next installment and couldn’t wait for the next book. But after Voyager, I kind of lost track in reading the series. Life, kids, and putting myself through school took too much of my time for me to invest any of what little resources I had left into actually doing something “selfish” at the end of the day, such as reading something that wasn’t a technical manual or didn’t have instructions. So life went on and then as I’m signing in at work one day, my home page pops up and LO & BEHOLD…..there’s the headline that Outlander is now going to become a series! Wow! It was like an old friend had written me a letter from out of the blue, someone kind of forgotten – but quickly and fondly remembered! So, here I go, re-reading these books once again and I just finished MOBY. So glad I have revisted this wonderful story! Thanks Diana, I am a huge fan!!!