See the note below—this post is from July 6, 2014 and is a bit outdated…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").
Diana,
I loved MOBY and I have
just finished reading it for the second time… to reassure myself that I didn’t miss anything. I’m very happy to learn that there will be at least one more book…HUZZAH!
I was hoping that there is another Lord John book in the works…As much as I love all your OUTLANDER characters, Lord John is my personal favorite and to the supreme dismay of many fellow OUTLANDER fanatics, I also like Percy. I desperately want for John to have a “happy” ending and perhaps that is somewhat “Mary Sunshine-ish” of me but, well there it is. I must admit I fell hard for the John/Percy pairing in BotB and at the end I was as crushed as John…soooooo when Perseverance reappeared in Echo and MOBY, I was Very happy. Yes, it is a dysfunctional relationship but I love seeing “bothered” John squirm.
Thanks for such a great series and for the time being, I will wait patiently here in sweltering South Texas for the next novel.
Robin
Your writings are pure joy. Your blog is a good bandaid for the void of not being engaged in all your other writings. When I finished MOBY I pondered the idea of a 9th in that I saw an interview with you at a bookstore reading and you were currently writing MOBY and said there would be a 9th because you could see where it was going. O.k. So, the end of MOBY left me wondering because it could be an end, not fully satisfying but one that felt rushed to end. So, I am thrilled to look forward to another and anything eles you write!
Down the the last few pages of Written In My Own Heart’s Blood.
Love Love Love the developments with William.
I don’t know if all Outlander Fans have noticed this, but I noticed that the Outlander Family Tree shows Ellen Fraser MacKenzie Fraser has a “new” middle name of Caitriona!
While I enjoyed Book 8, it was my least favorite. Not much of a story compared to the previous books. I feel like the books are becoming mysteries instead of novels. As for the tv series. I would have liked to been able to watch it with my teenage children, but was a little put off by the graphic sex scenes…not necessary to show. The kids actually said they felt uncomfortable and left the room. Also, I’ve been a little disappointed with Diana’s responses to certain things. Yes, she wrote a wonderful series of books, but I’ve heard a difference (and not very flattering) in her tone of how she answers her “fans”. After all, without the fans, she wouldn’t be where she is now. It would do good to keep that in mind.
Dear Denise–
Well…I’ve been a real person for a good long time, now, and am inclined to keep on that way. [g] I owe the fans the best book I can write; I don’t owe them mealy-mouthed obsequity. That said…I’m afraid I _am_ arrogant, snide, and sarcastic. I fight these tendencies, but occasionally I fail, and I apologize to anyone hurt by any failure on my part to be kind or civil.
As to your opinions on MOBY and on the show, you’re certainly entitled to them. I’m glad to note that you would seem to be in the minority concerning both, though.
Best,
–Diana
MS Gabaldon, she is DEFINITELY in the minority. Plus you aren’t required to be “nice” to to every question put to you because I can bet a lot of them are stupid. Your fans just want you to keep writing. As long as you do that your fans don’t care if you are “nice”, we just want to read anything you write. As I was told when in the Navy, don’t let the b——s get you down.
Dear Debi–
Well, I do think one human owes another civility and basic respect–and I do _try_. But nobody’s perfect, alas. Thanks for your kind understanding!
Best,
–Diana
You read the novels? And then sat down with your daughter to watch those same scenes on STARZ (not PBS) and expect them to edit the content so you and your daughter can feel comfortable? I’m sorry, I will ask again. Did you read the novels?
Wow, I thought the MOBY was one of the best books, second only to the very first one. I could hardly put it down & was dreading it coming to an end.
Just finished reading WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEARTS BLOOD late yesterday afternoon.
I know that some readers have commented that the end is a “cliff hanger”. I didn’t think so at all. IF it were the very last book (which you have said it’s not) it would have been a perfectly good ending.
Dear Donna–
I don’t think it’s a cliff-hanger, either. [g]
–Diana
I just dropped off MOBY at library. Good biceps after 9 years of reading your books! In love with your writing style and the series couldn’t have impressed me more! STARZ. Had to get it to see it and think the two main characters so far are perfect. Nuance, Beauty, Dialect and shooting spots…SPOT ON!
I just finished this little diddy because I always write diddies… my “ODE TO FRASIERS RIDGE”
O Claire my love
my bonnie lass
come sit behind my
pompous arse
I’ll hold you tight
and keep ye warm
always try and
keep ye from harm
There’s no place
I’d rather be
Than deep inside
and next to thee
I only wish
Roger Mac and Bree
were here with
their bairns Jem and Mandy
The day will come
on the Ridge, my lass
us on the porch
having sassafrass
watching in joy
at the beautiful sight
our children, our kin
enjoying the night
I love you Claire (Diana)
You’re all I’ve been
Past, present and future again
Looking forward to Book Number 9; this is the best way for me to express that. You are gifted beyond words DG!
Dear Diana,
first of all, I must say that Nine is my lucky number, so I’m happy to know there will be a nineth book !!!
I read on your facebook page that your children have never read your book ? Am I read it wrong ? How is it possible ?????!!!!!
Please, could you tell me more about that ?
Thanks for your incredible books, when I read you first, five years ago, I was so taken aback that I start to write myself and now I had self publish two books in french (that explain my bad english) who have a lot of succes. You are my muse and mentor I must say
Laure
Big, big fan Diana! I’ve been reading your books since I was 13 and fell in love with your writing and of course Jamie and Claire
I finished MOBY and was worried after talking with my family about it (they’re big fans and loved it too) that, MOBY was the end. So I rushed to your sight knowing you would definitely know how your readers were and I am so grateful to you for having it there right on the main page easily seen and answered. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I am so so happy that there will be a book 9!
Sending lotsa love
Thank-you Diana for book 8. It’s really great to see all of the characters as they expand their lives within the story of Jamie and Claire. More and more of my friends are Outlander fans. I admire your attention to details of history in these marvelous stories. I will be looking for OC2 in January.
You are a writer, of course there will be another book. You do a fine job with your stories. You ended it with the best possible ending, just in case you wanted to be done with it. Good idea!! Have a blessed day.
The book was fabulous! Iwas so excited to be able to read it and revisit these wonderful characters. Thank for all of the joy, heartbreak, human fraility, and above all humor. I am looking forward to the next one.
Diana,
Your. Books. Are. Simply. The. Best.
Bless you,
Jennifer
Diana,
I have read the entire series and I am enthralled with the “Outlander”books. Thank you for the hours of enjoyment. Every time I open the cover of the book, I am transported to another place and time. I am so glad to hear that there will be a book 9.
The TV series is wonderful and even though I am waiting to see episode 3, I think that it lives up to the book. The cast of characters in the series captures my mental depiction of the clan members. I look forward to a long running series. After all, there will be 9 or 10 books.
You are such a talented author. Keep up the great work!
Hello Diana.
I greatly enjoyed your new novel and I look forward to the next one, but a throwaway sentence about the sherry colored eyes of Jane made me excited about maybe finding an ancestor of Claire’s. Since that didn’t pan out, I wanted to know whether in any future books, will we ever learn anything about Claire’s ancestors? She had to get her ability to travel from somewhere.
I had the Outlander book for about 2 years. I decided to read it because I was going on a long plane ride and wanted something to hold my attention. Usually, I am not a historical fiction reader, but you hooked me in! Have read all of your books and reread them as well.
Happy to hear of a Book 9.
I started to get Starz because of the Outlander series and have not been disappointed.
Take some time off and enjoy yourself; you deserve it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hi Diana,
Thank you for a super book, yet again. Both me and my late mother were introduced to your books by my auntie in Australia. We read each one with great delight. I saved these books and re-read them when she passed away 2 years ago. It seemed to bring me closer by sharing the stories of Jamie and Claire that we had both loved and I know she would have really enjoyed this latest one, I did. I know your don’t want to hear it yet but I can’t wait for the next one. I need to know what happens next and does Jamie ever get back to Scotland. P.S my mum was Scottish and married an Englishman.
Dear Diana,
Thank you so much for MOBY! I am so glad you have more to tell and book 9 will be scooped up as soon as it is available. I have been a fan since the release of OUTLANDER. I have told so many friends about the series that we have our own reading group. These books and the characters are so amazingly written that I feel a sense of loss when I finish reading each book. It is almost like a dear friend is moving far away. I am a voracious reader and I have never had this intense reaction to any other book.
I am relieved to say that STARZ is doing a fine job too.
Looking forward to your modern day mystery.
Just finished my 2nd readthrough of book 8 & have to say, I found it fodder for quite a lot of thought – I live near the Monmouth Battlefield State Park and have a complicated relationship to Philadelphia, not the least of which is the fact that my daughter was born there (at the Children’s Hospital; long story & part of the reason I’m rather obsessed with Mandy, not in a bad way, but I see a lot of my Gwen in her. Both are fiesty wee baggages, as Jamie put it! Must be what got them through CICU stays.)
Anyhow, I’ve read all the books as eBooks and am finding I need them in paper. (You’ll likely find that gratifying. Or, rather, your publishers will.)
And have you used the Erskine/deWitt survey maps of NY & NJ? Robert Erskine was (1) a Scot and (2) General Washington’s first-ever Surveyor General and Cartographer, something nearly every schoolchild in my hometown (Ringwood, NJ) might know. He and his right-hand man, Simeon deWitt, completed nearly 300(!) maps of the Hudson Valley down to Sandy Hook, including accurate mileage & topography of the terrain. Readers can access part of a scanned map through an NYU or NY Historical Society page (Google “Robert Erskine map”) but I’m hoping the current historian of Ringwood Manor can help me find a legible & printable copy. The geography is making me obsessive – I live near Princeton & we drive past Lambertville, New Hope, and Paoli on our way to Philly when the kid has cardiologist appointments.
Thanks so much for the series, the cross-references, and the nods to Who & Douglas Adams. You’re truly a national treasure.
Dear Diana I live in Perth W.Australia I wont go banging on how Wonderful your books are (you have heard it all before!) All I want to say is THANK you for years of enjoyment. I am watching the TV series and LOVING it. Clare and Jamie are not exactly as I imagined but then how could they be… we ALL have those personal images of Clare Jamie and the rest of the gang in our own minds. BUT having said that both Clare and Jamie are LOVELY. After the first episode I was hooked and He is a hunk! I just hope I live long enough to see the WHOLE series! Gees going to be a long and FABULOUS journey. Thank you my dear I was never that much of a reader till you came along!
Hello Diana,
I have loved all your books for close to two decades now, since my mother handed me cross-stitch (outlander) and told me to read this, when I was around twenty. Since then every year I have re-read all the books that were at the time released, including the novellas and Lord John books. This world you have created is enthralling, dangerous and at times laugh out loud funny. I am always disappointed when I realise that I am close to the end of the latest book.
The new TV series is amazing and all participants seem as excited to bring this to life in as true a reflection of your novels as possible, what a relief it must be to you, and all your longtime fans (myself included). I was concerned how it would play out, but am loving the show.
LORD JOHN – LOVE HIM! with season two announced, has the search for him begun? has he been cast yet? or am I getting a wee bit ahead of myself? Looking forward to what may come, I love your books.