If you have been enthralled by Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series, you are not alone. The historical romance, time-traveling adventures of Claire Randall and Jamie Fraser have charmed millions of readers worldwide. But what do you read once you’ve finished the series and find yourself yearning for more?
Diana Gabaldonâs 1991 classic âOutlanderâ has recently become popular once again thanks to the critically acclaimed show on Starz with the same name. If youâre still not ready to leave the time traveling realm of Claire Randallâs British adventures, then allow your imagination to continue to flourish with these book recommendations. Here are five books by other authors that will fill the Outlander-shaped hole in your heart.
5 Books to Read if You Loved Outlander
1. Into the Wilderness by Sara Donati
Into the Wilderness takes you into the heart of the thickly wooded forests of late 1700s New York. The story follows the journey of Elizabeth Middleton, a spirited and educated woman who finds herself drawn to this wild frontier. As Elizabeth’s story intertwines with the fate of the Mohawk Nation, author Sara Donati crafts a compelling narrative that is both a profound portrait of an emerging America and a captivating love story. Rich in historical detail and brimming with romantic ambience, “Into the Wilderness” is a lushly written novel that will transport you to another time and place
The first book in a six-part series, “Into the Wilderness,” echoes the historical detail, romance, and adventure found in Gabaldon’s novels. Set in 18th century upstate New York, it tells the story of Elizabeth Middleton, a strong-willed English woman who falls in love with a man living in the American wilderness. Their love story is as captivating as Claire and Jamie’s, and the historical backdrop is just as richly painted.
2. The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons
The Bronze Horseman is a sweeping saga of love and war that takes you to the heart of World War II-era Russia. Author Paullina Simons weaves a captivating tale of Tatiana and Alexander, two individuals whose paths cross on the day Russia enters the war. Amidst the backdrop of a country in turmoil, an epic love story unfoldsâone marked by passion, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart. With its rich historical context and deeply drawn characters, “The Bronze Horseman” promises a reading experience that is as unforgettable as it is moving.
“The Bronze Horseman” is an epic love story set against the backdrop of World War II in Leningrad. Tatiana Metanova, a young Russian woman, and Alexander Belov, a Red Army officer, have a love story that’s intense, heart-wrenching, and unforgettable. Like “Outlander,” it’s a story of love tested by time, war, and unimaginable hardship.
3. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Audrey Niffenegger’s “The Time Traveler’s Wife” is a unique and poignant love story that transcends the boundaries of time. The novel introduces readers to Clare and Henry, a couple who must navigate their relationship amidst Henry’s uncontrollable time-traveling condition. Niffenegger masterfully explores themes of love, loss, and fate as she chronicles the couple’s attempts to lead a normal life. With its inventive narrative structure and emotionally resonant storyline, “The Time Traveler’s Wife” is a thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
Though “The Time Traveler’s Wife” is set in contemporary times, it shares the time-travel element with “Outlander.” It tells the story of Clare, a beautiful art student, and Henry, an adventurous librarian, who have known each other since Clare was six and Henry was thirty-six, and were married when Clare was twenty-three and Henry thirty-one. Impossible but true, because Henry is one of the first people diagnosed with Chrono-Displacement Disorder: periodically his genetic clock resets and he finds himself misplaced in time.
4. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
This spellbinding novel introduces Diana Bishop, a reluctant witch who stumbles upon an enchanted manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian Library, thrusting her into the heart of a dangerous mysteryâand into the path of enigmatic vampire Matthew Clairmont. As Diana unlocks the secrets of the manuscript, she embarks on a journey that will challenge everything she knows about herself and the world of creatures living hidden among humans. Harkness’s richly imagined universe and meticulously researched details make “A Discovery of Witches” a thrilling read for fans of supernatural fiction.
If you enjoyed the supernatural elements in “Outlander,” you’ll love “A Discovery of Witches.” Diana Bishop, a reluctant witch, stumbles upon a bewitched manuscript in Oxford’s Bodleian Library, attracting the attention of a charming geneticist and centuries-old vampire Matthew Clairmont. This novel combines history, mystery, and magic to create a world as enthralling as Claire’s journey through time.
5. The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
In “The Pillars of the Earth,” Ken Follett transports readers to the medieval world of 12th-century England, a time of political turmoil and religious strife. At the center of this epic tale is the ambitious endeavor to build the greatest Gothic cathedral the world has ever known. Through the eyes of its builders, Follett explores themes of faith, power, ambition, and love. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and rich historical detail, “The Pillars of the Earth” is a masterful novel that beautifully combines historical fiction with a gripping storyline.
While “The Pillars of the Earth” doesn’t involve time travel, its rich historical detail and complex characters will appeal to “Outlander” fans. Set in 12th century England, it revolves around the building of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. The saga of love, war, and religious strife is as engrossing as any of Claire and Jamie’s adventures.
More to Love After Outlander
Each of these novels offers something unique, yet they all share elements that made “Outlander” such a beloved series: epic love stories, rich historical settings, and unforgettable characters. So, if you’re missing the world of Claire and Jamie Fraser, these five books are sure to transport you on new captivating journeys. Happy reading!
Don’t miss out on a world of captivating stories! Subscribe now to get top-rated bargain ebooks delivered straight to your inbox. Discover new authors, indulge in timeless classics, or dive into thrilling mysteriesâall at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re a casual reader or a literary enthusiast, our curated selection of ebooks promises something for everyone. Make the smart choice and subscribe today. Your next favorite book awaits!
