See the note below—this post is from July 6, 2014 and is a bit outdated…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,
Just finished MOBYand the first episode of “Outlander” on STARZ. Fabulos on both counts!!
I look forward to the next adventure! Until then, I always have 8 books to start over again!
Dear Diana,
Thank you for the legacy you have created for future writers. I can foresee an Outlander focused course in the future for Lit majors. It would have to be over more than one semester! My only regret as an Earth bound being is that there is never enough precious Time, no matter how you bend it. Thank you for all of the enjoyable moments you have created for all of us in your writing.
All the Best,
Debra Beckman
Dear Diana,
Thank you for your great work with these books! I love them all, both the main story and the side stories about Lord John. This time, with book eight, I couldn’t wait for the Swedish translation but bought and read the book in English. When the Swedish version comes out, I’ll buy that too, and read it again. I just saw the first episode of the TV series, and I think that was great! Beautiful environments, great actors (I don’t care if Claire’s eyes are blue or if Jamie is an inch shorter than in the book, those things are not important in comparison to the actors’ ability to act, and I think they’re doing a great job!) and wonderful music. I really hope the TV series will be popular enough to go on season after season until there are no more books. I’m really looking forward to book nine, and all of the side projects you’ve got going on! I do hope you will find some time to rest and take care of yourself too!
Diana,
If you don’t mind – this has been making me crazy – I know MOBY is the last book I just read, but – just exactly what does MOBY stand for?
(*_*) A devoted fan~ Karen
My Own Hearts’ Blood = MOH-B = MOBY
For Diana,
I was so busy in my own career and raising 3 daughters – along with getting remarried that I barely found time to read my biz books or non-fiction. I was in the Adirondacks with the new husband and our blended family and walked into are rare private bookstore. My life had been a blur and I needed to actually take a vacation. She handed me Outlander and described the plot. I said, “not my thing but I’ll give it a go…” Now 8 books later and NEVER BEFORE HAVING ANY SHOW ON TV I WATCH; I have seen Part 1 on STARZ 3 times. I had to actually call the cable company and get STARZ just to see it! The grown up kids had their addictions to Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, etc. And for the first time in my life, I GET IT! Here is what your story did for me and does for me:
1) I myself am a mother, a high powered executive, outspoken, pushing the glass ceiling, and followed my heart towards true love against all ods.
2) I dropped out of medical school but pursued a career as a science health journalist and to this day fantasize about going back to medical school and or at least having to perform surgery! Yet I am what is considered a “natural healer” and all come to me for remedies, etc
3) I grew up on a horticultural farm obsessed with the medicinal and healing solutions of plants
4) I barely passed history; seem to have forgotten whatever I learned and through your books, am now fascinated by history – researching the times you write about and learning almost anew with verve and interest (see wrap a Rom-Com around anything and you had me at Rom…)
5) Your construction and deconstruction and reconstruction of the relationships between duty and emotion; family; spouses; profession, etc are so much more than your outlandish plot-lines – they somehow make raising 3 girls in today’s world and my own relationship with my husband, ex-husband, mother and the passing of family more understandable.
6) Your contribution, to me, in literature, is enough with the plot, character development and historical fiction BUT it is so much more than entertainment and waiting for the next plot twist – it has educated me and helped me in my own life – and this coming from a high academic who has studied philosophy, religion, medicine, gender studies, medicine, science and political science.
7) The simple joy of a dry bed, a warm man who truly loves, a family meal, and when nothing is on fire (figuratively), have all become sweeter because of your writing.
8) May you find time between your whirlwinds to enjoy what you have taught me to enjoy more in myself for yourself and your man and your family and your your incredible ability to translate your amazing mind to words.
I have read all 8 books in the last 2 and 1/2 months. I liked the way MOBY ended….if that is ‘The End’.
Watched the ‘Starz’ #1 last night and loved the way that it followed the book, almost to the exact dialogue.
But I must say that I feel like I am in mourning! I do not have a book at hand and love all the characters. I can not sit and read any more books like I did the first 8 though. It was addictive!
Thanks,
Maureen
Dear Maureen–
No, MOBY is not the last book–if that’s what you meant. [g] There will be a Book Nine, in the fullness of time. Hope you’ll enjoy it when you get it!
Best,
–Diana
I am now reading number 8 and loving it as I’ve loved 1 through 7. I saw the first episode of the Outlander on Starz and can’t wait for more. I was surprised at how well it followed the story. I hope it continues to do so.
You are truly a wonderful writer and looking forward to more in the series. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genre’s.
Keep up the good work.
Deena
Diana,
You did it again with MOBY. I loved it. And, Davina Porter is amazing. I found Outlander almost by mistake, when I decided to try audiobooks and just picked it off the shelf at the Library. How lucky can you get?
For me the hallmark of a good story, especially a good series, is the depth of involvement I feel with the characters. I remember admitting to a friend with some embarrassment that I was actually in love with a fictional character. That’s right – Rupert. Okay, not really, but I had it bad for Jamie. By the time Clair and Jamie hit the caves in France I thought I might just melt down on the spot, leaving only a puddle where once was a woman.
After MOBY, I spent time worrying about William, running off to god knows where. And in such a state! But there is to be a ninth one. Hooray! I’m with the others, though, who say to take your time and get some rest. You have stamina in spades, but we don’t want to wear you out, either.
The Starz series has been really fun to anticipate. I am glad we had a lot of time to acclimate to the casting ahead of time, since no production is going to perfectly mirror the images built up in a reader’s mind. I appreciate one more way to have Outlander, and a fine one at that. You have a fan base in our cohousing community and we are watching it together on a big screen. There is much rejoicing now that it is here at last!
I remain ever your humble servant,
Mary Jane
PS – any thought of another graphic novel? Just curious.
Hallo!
I am very happy that there will be a 9th book! I´ve read the 8th in one and a half week, every free Minute (…while preparing meals….). Tahk you for all those happy hours! I hope I will be able to watch the TV series in Germany too! Love from Germany…..Bärbel
Hi, Baerbel!
Actually, the show will be on German TV in “early 2015,” they say–on VOX. Hope you enjoy it!
–Diana
I loved the way MOBY ended! I knew then there would be a book 9! Sorry I did not get a chance to meet you in Traverse City, Michigan. Why did I not know you would be there? I live 75 miles away and would have gladly made the trek to see you! I don’t subscribe to Starz but what little I have seen of the movie, I am happy with the cast so far! I look forward to buying the entire series ….. some day! Best of luck. Hope you now get to spend some time with your family.
Diana,
I’ve been following the world of Outlander for 20 years and I am extremely grateful for the house of enjoyment you have created. I recommend your books to anyone I encounter. I’ve been so happy to meet you at a couple book signings. As eager as I am for the next book to come out, I do realize how much work they are and that with all that has come with the release of MOBY and the TV series, I will refrain from asking That Question.
BUT. There is one thing I have been dying to know. When the series is completed, whether that’s in Book Nine or Book Ten or however many it takes for the story to be completed, will we readers find out the truth about the time travel aspect? So far Claire and Brianna and the others have only theories regarding gemstones and time of year and certain blood lines being able to travel. But will they ever find out if their theories are right or wrong, and why certain people can travel and others can’t? Or will that forever remain one of the mysteries of the universe?
My daughter introduced me to the Outlander series last Christmas and I do so very much enjoy them. I struggle with brain fog associated with fibromyalgia (aka fibrofog, coined by my rheumotologist). I may often have to reread paragraph after paragraph, but your writing keeps me happy at the task. Your fiction (albeit laced with actual history) is among the few I read, as my interests lead me more toward non-fiction. So much literature, so little time! Thank you, and I wish you many more years of writing. And keep that wonderful wit and humor coming!
Diana,
I am new to the books and am currently on my first reading of book five (The Fiery Cross). I just had to mention that the wedding scene in the book made me laugh so hard last night, it took me five minutes to be able to continue, and I was afraid I would wake up my son on the other side of the house. It has been quite a while since a book has cause such spontaneous and uncontrolled laughter. (Perhaps I could see my own father and brother behaving as such in my mind.) I look forward to continuing the journey. Cheers.
In the midst of all the pandemonium is a consistent thread of humor. Love it!!! I am shaking my head in disbelief over the depth of emotion you portray. I literally squirm at the honesty between Jamie and Claire and how they express themselves. You have an amazing gift and a terrific sense of humor. Love all your books and will wait somewhat patiently for the next!!
Hi Diana,
The former CEO of my company introduced me to your books. I have read the first 7 three times and will likely read all 8 over and over again. I do not generally read a book more than once, but I find that every time I read one of the Outlander series, I find something new that I did not absorb during prior readings. As always, I am excited for a book 9 when you have it done, but the anticipation makes the book that much more enjoyable. I am watching the TV series, which I made myself wait until the official premiere to watch, and am very excited to see it and to hear the proper pronunciation of Gaelic words. Ironically I just finished MOBY today and I am even more in love with Jamie Fraser than the first time I read about him. Thank you so much for creating these amazing characters and story lines.
I’m so glad my favorite series of all time us being made into a series not a movie. This allows the characters to develop more. Thank you Diana for creating such a perfect love story for us. We will patiently wait for the next installment and I have to say the series will help keep away the withdrawal symptoms!
I just want to say I absolutely LOVE YOUR BOOKS!!!!!! Never would Nook you or IBook your stories, own them all. They would be my deserted island reads. I am smart enough to know who was coming up the path but how did they get there, how does William fair, and sweet young Fanny? See I am hooked!
Hi Diana,
I just want to tell you how much I love your books. I read Outlander when it first came out in the 80′s, and every book since then. I go back and re-read the whole series about two months before your next book comes out just so I can remember everything! I have read all of your novellas and all of the Lord John books. They all add to the Outlander experience. I have watched Outlander on Starz 5 times (it’s on DVR now) and I also own all of the audio books. I listen to them in order when I sew. I tell all of my friends about the Outlander books, but I make them either buy their own, or get them from the library (it’s not fair to you, to loan my books.) I have every hard cover (signed) book, and also every book on my Kindle – the BIG books were getting too heavy to carry with me! I think I might be addicted to Outlander.
I can wait for book 9, but just barely. Keep up the great work.
Dear Diana,
I wrote to tell you how much I had enjoyed Outlander and thought it was about time to tell you how much I have enjoyed the whole series. When I know that another book is about to be published, I usually start at the beginning and read through them all again, so I have now read the first one eight times, the second one seven times, the third one six times, etc., etc. As soon as I have read the latest one I pass it on to my son who also has enjoyed the whole series.
You really have an extraordinary gift for making the people come alive and making your readers care for what happens to them. Not only do you write well but the grammar is impeccable and hyphenation is correct (I edit manuscripts for two medical journals and own a Nook and the downloaded books leave much to be desired). Thank you.
I watched the first episode of Outlander on Starz last Saturday and helped my neighbor to set up her TV to record it. She has also bought Outlander for her iPad. If ever I am in a store, I try to steer people to your books. I read voraciously and like all sorts of genres but you are by far my most favorite author.
Again, my thanks for many hours of entertainment. Please keep on writing your fabulous stories.
God bless and take care of yourselves,
Marianne