Would I recommend Outlander to a friend? Sure! If I knew they had about 2 months to spare, because that’s probably how long it’ll take to finish. The plot may be strong, and full of twists and turns, but at over 870 pages it should have been broken up into 2 books. Or maybe 5.
Claire Randall is a married woman living in 1945, spending a romantic second honeymoon away with her husband when she is suddenly whisked away through some Scottish standing stones to another time. 1743 to be exact. So much for a relaxing night in front of the fire with your hubby.
While adjusting to this new time, she meets a rugged Scottish warrior named James (Jamie) Fraser who has a pretty impressive long sword, if you know what I mean (hint, hint; wink, wink). What’s a woman to do? I think we all have some pretty unsavory ideas.
Despite the extensive length of this novel, it is actually very successful in keeping your interest throughout the whole thing. There’s danger, family struggle, rescuing of the damsel in distress, and even the man in distress! Granted, you’ll need about 100 note cards to keep all of the names straight, as there are about a billion different people you’re introduced to, and they all tend to blend together. Claire is a very likable and strong heroine, although I found it somewhat unbelievable that she handles being transported in time so well. She sort of just chalks it up to fate, and decides to roll with it. Hell, if it were me I’d probably be crouching in a corner crying and pulling my hair out. But that’s just me.
Consider this a minor spoiler alert: Claire and Jamie engage in some hiding the broadsword between the sheets. As far as their nocturnal activities are concerned, they are nice and steamy, and provided in some explicit detail. Jamie might be a rough around the edges Scotsman, but he’s actually very loving and surprisingly sweet when it comes to Claire. He’ll quickly become your ideal warrior. Yummy!
Series: Outlander series, book 1 of 8
Should you read it? Yes, especially since they just started the TV series on Starz. I’ve been waiting for this for over 7 years!!
Smut Level: When you’re finished with this book you’ll probably want to buy a one way ticket to Scotland, and search for your very own standing stones to travel through.
Buy it on Amazon: Click Here
Romance Novels for the Beach 