See the note below—this post is from July 6, 2014 and is a bit outdated…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").
Dear Diana
Seven or eight years ago I was lucky enough to meet you at a book signing just outside of Seattle. But luck had nothing to do with my showing up eight hours early and getting a front row seat for your reading. Halfway through the nine hundred admirers excitedly waiting for their encounter with you it was my turn to get my books signed, and trying to think of something to say I mentioned that I’d sat in the front row, whereupon you looked at me and said “Oh, the one with the laugh” with a faint smile. Now, I always hoped you meant it kindly, but even if not, it was okay. You were having an obviously stressful day.
Since that happier time I’ve been diagnosed with three rare illnesses: Refractory Giant Cell Arteritis, Arnold Chiari Malformation type 1, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome hypermobile type. And have thought about Claire and how she must have met up with somebody along the way who had something less than common. I mean more than dupuytren’s, something more threatening. I’ve had two brain surgeries and a butt load of really harsh medicines over the course of four years and will still most likely die within the next five to six years. Of course Claire wouldn’t be able to do complicated brain surgery but could she recognize and treat non-surgical rare diseases?
Thanks, MaryClaire Kalamafoni “The one with the laugh.”
Dear MaryClaire–
Oh, dear–I do hope you don’t think I meant anything derogatory by remembering you by your charmingly infectious laugh! The fact that I recalled you in the midst of 900 people just means that you drew my attention, in an altogether delightful way.
My sympathies on your very difficult medical situation; I’ll add you to my nightly prayers. As for Claire–I’m sure she met any number of people with uncommon medical conditions, but she wouldn’t have been equipped to recognize or diagnose (let alone treat) most of these. Remember that during her first journey into the past, she had only the skills of a combat nurse: excellent with wounds and immediate trauma, but she’d have almost no experience with even common illness. And later, while she does have much more medical training (as we see from some of the things she deals with) and is a very skilled surgeon, her knowledge extends only to 1968, and the diagnostic technology at her disposal would be completely inadequate for detecting any of your conditions, for example. (Giant Cell Arteritis diagnosis depends on a number of tests, and while the simplest–biopsy of the temporal artery–would be just about possible in the 18th century, it would require not only anesthesia but a good microscope and good luck, as the diagnostic cells are patchy in distribution and might not be present in the biopsied section.) Such conditions also wouldn’t be usually treatable at all–and in a purely novelistic consideration, one wouldn’t want to have Claire encounter dire diseases that she could do nothing about more than occasionally. Normally, you’d do it where an emotional or dramatic result is attached to the condition, as with regard to Mandy’s heart defect.
All the best,
–Diana
You’re a cruel, cruel woman! How could you leave me w/ that ending??? I have no idea how I’m going to be able to wait for book 9! I had to read the entire series again as slowly as I possibly could just to be able to wait for book 8. By the way, MOBY was just as amazing as books 1-7. You’re an incredible author and I’ll do my best to wait patiently (who am I kidding?) for the next book.
Dear Diana,
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for taking the risk and publishing your “practice” work! I read Outlander when it was on the display shelf in my local library while pregnant with my daughter (who’s now 22)- and never imagined there could be so much more written! Thank you, also, for making this your life’s work, for giving up your academic career- I and so many others benefit so much.
I appreciate every line you write, and if I am ever lucky enough to meet you in person, I can’t even imagine what I may actually say! But certainly nothing approaching the thoughtless selfish demands you field with such grace (and sometimes a snarkiness I very much enjoy).
At any rate, thank you. You gift, your work, and your glorious smile are all appreciated.
Heidi Bromley
Upstate NY, USA
Wow! Diana I am impressed by all the love this one post has gotten! Dunno my enough, I came here to check for news for book nine. Not because I think it’s done and ready for any time soon (but a girl can dream right?) But because I love this series so much that I don’t want to miss a single thing. I discovered your series in August this year and read all of them in a month and was thrilled yet sad to realize that the latest one had just come out because that meant I had to wait a while for the next one. My silly fear was that I would forget the series and never read the next one. Did I mention I was silly? You have created a world so detailed that it’s impossible not to get sucked in. Thank you for sharing your stories with us!!!
Hi Diana
I’m in love with your books. I have read and listened to the entire series at least 10 times and first book about 30 times, and can recite it. The show although extraordinarily made and beautiful, it’s not the same story. The story line, and sequence of important event that makes it so exciting has been dramatically changed. I expected a lot more of such a beautiful novel on the screen. Love your work and looking forward to book 9.
Diana,
I have read all the Outlander books. I buy the hard copies because the covers are so beautiful and colorful!
They are prominently displayed in my home. I am most anxious to read book #9. I know we fans are very
demanding – I appreciate the research you devote to these books and understand that it takes time to put out these fantastic books. I look forward to the next one with great anticipation.
I just recently rented on Netflix the first two discs which covered episodes 1 – 8. When will the next episodes be available? I have enjoyed watching the series as much as I did reading the books. Jamie and Claire are perfectly cast. Where can I check to find out about the release of the next episodes 9-16?
Dear Diana:
I just finished book 8 of the series today – I didn’t know about this series until I saw the TV ad for the Starz mini-series. I watched this last fall and was compelled to find out more. Much to my great surprise there was a treasure trove of books, which I began reading immediately! I read them straight through.
I’m now somewhat in withdrawal, but I’m glad there is the John Grey series I can start next. I found John to be a sympathetic character and would like to know more about him. I also agree that there is more to happen regarding William who was left confused and alone at the end of book 8. The scenes when Jamie helps him find and bury Jane were a starting place for them to build a relationship. Hopefully, that will occur. I also had the distinct feeling toward the end of the book that Briana and family would return to Fraser’s Ridge and was pleased to see that happen as the book ended!
I have always been interested in history and seeing ordinary people in the context of what was happening during the times and places in which they lived. I’ve been researching my family and writing a small history about them – not simply a family tree, but where they lived, what they did, what the conditions were like for them, and what might have motivated their choices. I like doing the research, which I’m sure you must enjoy as well, given the vast amount of detail you work into the stories.
So, I applaud your work – it’s fascinating and the characters are very much alive. I look forward to the 9th installment!!
Sharon Pressly-Fiero
Denver, CO
PS: I’ve found the TV series to be good – the actors are great, and I think embody your characters well. Enjoying the second half of the season at present.
Regarding the TV series. I am wondering why the screenwriters have invented their own events and inserted them into the story, when the original has so much stand alone value. I understand the need to compact things, to have to fit the tight schedule of episodes, but really, why invent an officers’ dinner with Jack arriving at the end of the meal? Why invent a Sandringham duel with MacDonald? Sad to see the story fiddled with so irreverently.
I don’t usually use these comment sites, and having already written my observations, and not having anything yet to reply to, I wonder why this page has presented me again with the same blank spot. J.
Dear Jeanne–
Well, it’s possible that your comment came in to the “moderated” section of the site–that means the comment is held out of view until I’ve had time to read it and release it. Life is summat more than busy right now, so I don’t manage to read the comments every day. See if you see your comment now that I’ve replied to and approved it!
Best,
–Diana
Trying not to finish book 8 as I will miss reading about the family…One question who was the highlander who was watching Clair brush her hair in the window, I thought it was Jamie but he never went back or the Ghost from the church killed in the foundations … I may have missed something but I would really like to know :):):)
Cheers Vicki
waiting for number 9
Dear Vicki–
Yes, that’s Jamie. Why should he go back? Claire isn’t there anymore.
Best,
–Diana
I started the Outlander series when Nook offered Outlander as a Free Friday book. I whipped through that book and the next seven in the Outlander series, then reread them to see what I had missed (lots). Then I read the Lord John books and am eagerly awaiting book 9 in the series. I just hope you don’t follow George R R Martin’s lead and take forever.
Can’t wait to find out:
-How did Briana and family get back?
-What happened to William Buccleigh McKenzie?
-Is Ben Dead?
-Who moved into the Bugs’ cabin after they left the Ridge?
And other questions, too numerous to count.
Thank you for the hours of pleasure you have given me.
Diana
I started reading The Outlander Series in September and have not put a book down since I started. I truly love the characters and the story about their lives (Claire and Frank not so much.) Claire and Jamie are the best but, the whole family and what happens in their lives I couldn’t put it down. Thank you for so many hours of enjoyment. I read the Lord John Grey Series (with Jamie, John and their families) and I have to say I wish I read it with The Outlander Series and not after. I really ties a lot of things together. I am looking forward to devouring book 9. Thank you for the months of pure enjoyment and I await your next book with equal zeal.
Dear Diana,
I just finished reading (and listening) to all 8 books of the “Outlander” series. I am addicted and have turned many people on to the books and TV series. I love the characters and the wonderfully laid-out stories. I am starting to re-read them, as I feel they are now part of “my family.” I also really enjoy Davina Poter’s style, rhythm and her interpretation of your incredible work.
I do have one question that has been knawing at me since “Dragon Fly”. It’s not a biggie, but I wondered if you had ever thought about it. I know there are many ramification to time-travel; all of them mostly theory. But I was thinking that one of the main reasons Claire would not want Jamie (or anyone else) to kill Jack Randell before he can sire a child is that… if Frank doesn’t exist, then Claire can’t marry him, go to Scotland on honeymoon, walk through a stone in the ground and would never meet Jamie. I realize that Claire’s love of Frank is very important and leaves her very conflicted, but to me, her reasoning to Jamie should also include the fact that they would never meet.
(Having said all that, I also realize that the Jack Randell/Fergus scene that causes Jamie’s rage might cause him to think of a different solution and the story would go a different direction.)
That said… as you can see, I’m probably TOO into your wonderful characters and exciting saga. Please keep up the good work, and I can’t wait for book 9.
Neill
La Quinta, Ca
Dear Neill–
Well, all I’ll say about that is that people in the grip of strong emotion are less well equipped to tease out every logical possibility in an impossible situation than are people with endless time to read a book and think about it. [g]
Best,
–Diana
I have read all eight books multiple times. I have hooked every person I know on this series. My husband read all eight and watches the series with me. I have never enjoyed a book more. I started with the hardback, then paperbacks, now on Kindle. I also have the bracelet, the book charm, and the earrings (does the word obsessed come to mind). I admire Diana more than any other author. I cannot fathom how you can keep events in order and keep so many facts straight. I read every book as it came out and the one before it also. I have read Outlander eight times. I recently read MOBY for the third time. I am enjoying the series and the little differences. My husband and I discuss them and try to remember what happened in the book versus the series. It keeps us on our toes. I hate waiting for the next book but love it all the more when it hits the bookstores. I will read the first eight again before it is released. Thank you so much for the best story ever told and keep them coming.
Dear Diana
Just finished MOBY this morning. (sad face here) I love the book but it had to end. I was worried that I would not remember what happened in the other books as I started but that wasn’t the case. It was like sitting down with family getting caught up.
So glad there will be more to read about. Thanks for writing these books.
Dear Diana,
I just finished listening to all eight audio books of outlander. Thank you for enriching my life.
Thank you for stirring an interest in the history of Scotland and the USA that will undoubtedly lead to visits to both.
If you ever visit the Netherlands, I’d be delighted to guide you around my country.
Best regards,
George Ammerlaan
It’s with a heavy heart that I’m writing this today…. I started reading MOBY when it first came out and I intentionally would read only a few chapters at a time and then would put it down for a while. Then pick it back up and read a few more and sometimes I would even re read several chapters…..yesterday I finally finished the book. I loved it!!! (especially the ending) but I’m really, really sad that I finished it ;-(
I’m also watching the TV series. We even Ordered STARZ just so I could see it! I like the TV series, but I have to admit that it’s sometimes hard to understand Jamie and his Family! Reading the books is easier (haha). I hope the TV series doesn’t stop before the end of the books.
Please, please, please write books nine, ten, and eleven!!! Ok, that’s selfish of me… You can stop at ten!!!
One of the blogs above mentioned finding the Outlander series in a used book store …. No way am I getting rid of my books! I have hard back copies of the whole series and copies of books seven and eight on my kindle!
I love your books!
Take care,
Debbie
Diana,
I’m glad that I found this page and recived the warning about not asking about when the next book will be coming out because that would have been right on the heels of me telling you how much I love your books if I ever had the chance to meet you. I “can’t wait” until the next one but of course, I hvae no other choice. I have been in withdrawals since I finished the last one an enjoyed the series more than almost any other that I’ve every read.
You’re awesome! (and hurry up with book 9, I’m dying here – took that chance since you can’t bonk me on the head through email)
Woody
Colorado
Well Diana,
I did wait although, only because I had no choice. “Tell it to the Bees” cam out on the 22nd of November and I received my copy yesterday, on the 23rd. Within 8 pages I was in love (with all of the characters as I encountered them, one by one) again and you, my Kitty and I spend several hours curled up as I was sucked back into the vortex of the Outlander series.
Thank you for this and thank you for what you do. I love your writing and the stories that you tell. On the other hand, I do need to change my attitude because even though I’m only about 50 pages in, I’m mentally counting my was down to the end and dreading it.
I find it interesting that when I look above, I signed my note as “Woody – Colorado” when I had been living in Wisconsin for 3 months (still here) and 9 years in Maine prior to moving here. Wherever I’m from, I love your writing and appreciate what you do!
Woody
Wisconsin AKA Wisconsin Woods
Hi, Woody,
The official publication date for GO TELL THE BEES THAT I AM GONE was November 23, 2021. (Not November 22.) I will check and see if there is a typo somewhere on Diana’s website.
The virtual online celebration hosted by Random House was held o November 22, but the book was not officially released until the next day.
Thanks!
Loretta
Diana’s Webmistress
Hi Diana
Somewhere I heard that you will be writing another novel/novella regarding Lord John Grey. If my memory hasn’t deserted me I have a recollection that it will be regarding how he came about marrying Isobel and adopting Willy. Am I dreaming or is this actually in the works? Do hope you will write more novels regarding LJG especially how he met his lovers Hector, George and Charles. My husband just shakes his head when I say if I could have any fictional character for diner it would be LJG and Harry Quarry. Please never stop writing about your delightful and interesting people including of course Jamie and Claire.
Cheers Sarah
I’m reading book four and, husband and I are watching part II of Starz Outlander TV series. We both have this question that will not go away; do we have to wait until the final book (whether that be #9 or another), to find out the reason behind Jamie’s ghost standing in front of the Inn at Inverness watching Claire through the window? This was in both the book and the first episode of the Starz TV series, and it seemed that Jamie was a ghost since Frank didn’t feel him when he turned and brushed closely past him – then disappeared at the end of the road. I’ve also read from other readers that Jamie canna travel through the stones (as not just anyone can), so that WOULD leave us to think that this was his ghost.
Other readers/fans of Diana’s books who are further down the road (have read most or all of the books in this series) say that this won’t be revealed until the very last book.
I’m not sure why but as writer’s ourselves (and also editors on various projects), we always end up on this topic; trying to figure out what it signified? (Yes, we are both a wee bit ADHD). Does anyone know when/if Diana will divulge the answer to this scenario?
To Diana, we love, Love, LOVE, the idea that you started the first book of this incredible series “to see if you could [indeed] ‘write a novel.’” How fortunate for the rest of us that the answer was obviously a resounding “YES!”
Dear Lacy–
Last thing in the last book. But we aren’t there yet… [g]
Best,
–Diana