Outlander

Outlander, Book 1

By: Diana Gabaldon

Narrated by: Davina Porter

Length: 32 hrs and 38 mins

Publisher's summary

This stunning blend of historical romance and time traveling adventure has captured the hearts of millions of readers around the world and catapulted author Diana Gabaldon to the top of the New York Times best seller list. Outlander introduces an exhilarating world of heroism and breathtaking thrills as one woman is torn between past and present, passion and love.

In 1945, former combat nurse Claire Randall returns from World War II and joins her husband for a second honeymoon. Their blissful reunion is shattered when she touches a boulder in an ancient stone ruin and is instantly transported to 1743 Scotland, a place torn by war and raiding border clans. Will Claire find her way back to her own time, or is her destiny forever linked with Clan MacKenzie and the gallant James Fraser?

©1991 Diana Gabaldon (P)1997 Recorded Books, LLC.

Critic reviews

"Davina Porter maintains the distinct voices she creates for each character throughout the lengthy narration. Her delivery of 18th-century language sounds authentic and is easily understandable." (AudioFile)

Outlander. Great!

"Outlander" yes, I did enjoy the story , but what happened to the rest of the story.?

Bedtime Reading (after the first time through)

This book, the first one in the Outlander/Lord John series, never fails to draw me in on repeat readings. I have listened to all 13 about 8 times, now as bedtime reading. The conceit of the time traveler’s dilemma and the author’s literary gifts continue to delight despite familiarity. It’s a great story and now available as a Starz television production. It’s evident why PBS readers picked the Outlander series as the second most popular book in the US.

Fantastic!

I love Outlander! My husband would say I am obsessed, to the point I have an Outlander tattoo! I have watched the TV series several times over and finally decided to listen to the books vs. reading them, as I was unsure if I would still understand/know how to pronounce the Gaelic if I read it myself. Having seen the show it was nice to have a face for each character, even if their physical descriptions were a bit different. There were some parts in the book not shown in the show or portrayed slightly different, so it was nice to have both versions in my mind. Can't wait to start the second book and continue my journey through time.

Much More Than a Simple Romance

Considering how popular this series is, and how long it's been around (published in 1991!), I wasn't really sure how much of a new perspective I could add by reviewing it.

I decided I did want to share a few thoughts, however, because this is a book that I think would actually appeal to a wide range of readers, despite having a reputation as a 'sexy romance novel'.

So if there is anyone else like me out there (a 30-something man who mainly reads Fantasy and wonders if he would like this book), this review is for you.

Let's start with the obvious: the main story of this book DOES revolve around a romantic relationship, and things do get....steamy a few times. Nothing is really explicit, but there is definitely a lot of 'romantic' content.

Also, as a Trigger Warning, you should also be aware that there are mentions of rape and the PTSD associated with it. Again, not explicit, but definitely could be triggering.

While romance books are not my typical cup of tea, I -can- appreciate beautiful writing. And folks, this is a BEAUTIFULLY written book.

Gabaldon is a special talent. I was shocked to find that not only was Outlander her first attempt at a novel, but it wasn't even meant to be published, initially! Her prose is absolutely beautiful, and her depictions of Scotland will make you want to book a vacation there ASAP.

History buffs will also be fascinated by the way she sprinkles in real characters and moments throughout the story.

Character work is a highlight as well. Claire and Jamie feel like real people, not the flawless mannequins I imagine fill out most romance novels. I found the side characters to be very compelling as well, even if Jack Randall was a bit of 'mustache-twirling' villain.

And the story is gripping. I was genuinely invested in Claire's plight and was shaken multiple times by very clever plot twists.

The book is not perfect - it's very long and can be a bit slow at times, and there are moments where I was like 'enough with the romance get back to the plot!', but I would be lying if I told you this was not a good book. It absolutely is, and deserves the praise it receives.

And, finally, perhaps the BEST aspect of the book is Davina Porter's wonderful narration. This is one of the Top 5 best audiobook performances I have ever heard.

I'm excited to continue on, and I would encourage you to give it a chance, if you are at all curious.

loved it!

If you enjoyed the show you'll really enjoy this book. The author does a great job of bringing you into 18th century Scotland.

Timeless Saga!!! My favorite book of ALL TIME!!!

I read my first Diana Gabaldon novel 25 years ago... Since then, I've re-read the first novel 10-15 times, not to mention listening to the audio book another 5-7 times over the last 25 years. Each time, I am transported to an incredible world of color and multi-layered characters & story lines where words convey magic and the escapism is unparalleled. This audio book is my favorite medium... FAR better than the show and easier to listen to, than to sit and read. The narrator, well, she's absolutely perfect. And the story, well: literary & entertainment perfection. If you've only seen the recent TV series, you're seriously missing out. It is like the cliff notes version of the real story. There's so many layers, and so much depth to the book itself, it's almost like a different story entirely. I hope you enjoy this version as I have.

FANTASTIC!!

This is such an amazing story and wonderfully read. Absolutely a must read!! Cant wait to start book #2!

Adventure of a lifetime

I think I began reading this series because I saw it was going to become a TV show. As an avid reader I like to read the book before getting involved with a movie or show. This series is one of the best I have ever discovered. You will completely loose yourself in this series. The author is amazing and has created a world to escape to . I love Clare and Jamie and the concept of time travel. I have had many conversations about what I would have done if I was Clare. I have thought about going back in time and what I would bring ; would I survive. This book has something for everyone, romance, suspense, drama. There are villains and heroes . Its the beginning of an epic tale. #TimeTravelPast #Adventure #ScotlandHistory #tagsgiving #sweepstakes

Travel Back in Time and Find True Love

After watching the show, I’m so glad I started listening to the books! The Outlander series is one of the best for its adventure, creativity, love, and history. I loved going back in time and listening to a story that felt realistic. Funnily enough, this book made me proud of the Scottish blood that runs in my veins.
Diana Gabaldon did an exceptional job with this series. It captivates and takes your imagination into a world that makes you thankful for the small things, like hot showers, and helps you believe in love again. Life is no smooth ride, and no one knows that better than Claire and Jaime, but through it all, they survived and have the chance to change history!
There were parts I skipped over, but the scene I was most nervous about getting to was, thankfully, not as graphic as the show. It was still hard to listen to, but it’s different from watching it unfold on the tv show. I’m looking forward to starting book two, where they go to France! One book down, seven more to go!

In Love with this series!!!

If you are a lover of relatable characters that feel like great friends, love stories, mystery, heartache, war, and the perseverance of the human spirit, this book is just the ticket for you!!!
join the clan and listen in!!!