If you think the Outlander television series on Starz is steamy, just wait until you listen to the novels written by . While the show gives us plenty of sexy moments, especially between lead actors Caitronia Balfe and Sam Heughan, who have amazing chemistry, there are limitations with any televised romance.
First of all, there’s the matter of time. Gabaldon’s book series has thousands of pages—and for listeners, hundreds of hours—to develop the plot and characters while still having plenty of time for more intimate moments. Then, there’s the power of imagination, something familiar to any romance fan. The television show interprets scenes into specific visuals, but when you’re listening or reading, it’s up to you to visualize each moment.
It also doesn’t hurt that Gabaldon excels at writing some truly unforgettable love scenes. Whether you’re new to the series or are a longtime fan looking back at some of its steamiest moments, here are a few of the hottest sex scenes in .
Chapter 15: Revelations of the Bridal Chamber
This scene marks the beginning of the undeniable chemistry between Jamie and Claire, and it all starts with an arranged marriage. Dougal tells the newlyweds that they must consummate their union. It’s sweet and sexy, and there’s even a nice bit of comedic relief when Claire opens the door to their bedroom and the folks waiting outside congratulate Jamie on a job well done.
Chapter 23: Return to Leoch
In this chapter, a young maiden named Laoghaire has fallen in love with Jamie and is hurt to discover he’s married. Jealous and worried that Jamie has feelings for Laoghaire, Claire confronts Jamie and asks if he’s having an affair with her. In response, he gives Claire a new wedding ring, in addition to a physical reminder of his affections.
Chapter 41: From the Womb of the Earth
This is the iconic conclusion of the first Outlander novel. Claire and Jamie put on robes and go underneath the Abbey where there are warm mineral springs. And before long, the pair loses the robes. Afterward, Claire tells Jamie that she's pregnant, making this shared moment all the more meaningful.
Chapter 56: Turtle Soup
This is one of the sexiest scenes in the Outlander series, and a fan favorite because Gabaldon shows off her humor skills. In this chapter, Claire has had her arm slashed by a pirate's cutlass. She knows it's infected, and asks Jamie to give her a shot of penicillin. Jamie then brings her a bowl of turtle soup, and soon Claire finds herself drunk off of the sherry in the soup. She drunkenly seduces Jamie, making for a scene that is both hot and hilarious.