Rated of 5
by Sharon V. (Chicago, IL) Outlander
One word sums up this book: Saga.
In this love story/action-adventure/historical fantasy, Claire Beauchamp is transported from the 1940’s to the 1740’s Scottish highlands where she begins a new life with her husband’s ancestors.
The author has clearly done her homework. All of the elements of Scottish life are vibrantly depicted from the natural landscape right down to the Gaelic dialect and told in a smooth and fluid style. Unfortunately, there is way too much of these detailed descriptions and not enough plot.
The characters are one-dimensional and fell enter either the good or evil category. I struggled to care at all about their fates. This novel tries to be everything ends up being not much at all.
Rated of 5
by Steve B. (Spring, TX) Captivating Chronicle
When I saw that Outlander consisted of 850 pages of small type, I doubted that the author could hold my interest for such an extended period. Boy, was I wrong. The pace was brisk and the content was absorbing. I hated to put it down.
The plot presents a number of moral and ethical dilemmas for the hero and especially the heroine. She manages to justify her actions and gains support from friends and clergy. To sum up the moral of this story I would say... Love (or Lust?) conquers all!
Rated of 5
by Marie A. (Warner, NH) Interesting, but...
A friend of mine expressed great interest and enthusiasm after reading this series; therefore, I couldn't wait to read Outlander. Though I found the book an interesting read, I doubt that I will continue with the series.
I must admit that the reason this book holds the interest of many readers is the scope of its content. The 850 pages certainly move the reader through history, mystery, romance and time travel. Also presented are scenes of sex and violence along with graphic descriptions of abuse, rape and torture. So Gabaldon is correct when she says her novel includes "the usual stuff of literature."
Literature is also filled with many memorable characters--I would not give Outlander top billing on my memorable character list.
Interesting, but...
Rated of 5
by Andrienne G. (Azusa, CA) 90s literature shows its age and sentiment
I finally finished this hefty novel. I like a good time travel story any day, but this book did not leave me fascinated. This book was made in 1991 and it shows. It's very corny in some sections; I imagine those who don't mind soap operas would really like this book (including the grandiose love scenes). The main characters Jaime and Claire are too naive and unrealistic in today's standards. I give it good points though for the research--language, clothing, customs etc. are all convincing and it sets the right mood. Overall though, it's a good effort as far as mashed-up genres go (it's sci-fi, romance, historical fiction, adventure, and so on). It's just not my type.
Rated of 5
by Shelby L. (Hamden, CT) Superb read
When I received Outlander I was sure I'd never get into it since time travel is not my thing nor are lengthy historical novels. Was I ever wrong. There is not much to add that hasn't been said in the other reviews but ignore the naysayers among them and read this. Love, lust, violence, history, war, religion..it's all there and so well written, it's hard to put down.
Rated of 5
by Rosemary T. (San Antonio, TX) Outlander
Although the story held my interest most of the time, I found there were parts where I bogged down with too much detail. Often I thought the story was ending but would realize there were still 200 or more pages to go. If I had any criticism, it would be that Claire and Jamie seemed to possess "super human" skills as they moved from one life threatening crisis to another. Since the story left many unanswered questions, I most likely will read the next book in the sequel.
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of 5
by Sharon V. (Chicago, IL) 
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by Steve B. (Spring, TX) 
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by Rosemary T. (San Antonio, TX) 
