what to read after outlander series

3 min read 25-12-2024

Meta Description: Finished the Outlander series and looking for your next great read? This guide suggests similar books and authors offering the same blend of historical fiction, romance, time travel, and adventure that made Outlander so captivating. Discover new literary worlds to explore! (157 characters)

Introduction

So, you've journeyed through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands with Claire and Jamie, experienced their passionate love story, and survived the tumultuous events of the Outlander series. Now what? Don't worry, fellow bookworm, the literary landscape offers a wealth of captivating reads to satisfy your craving for historical fiction, romance, adventure, and a touch of time travel. This guide explores excellent options to continue your literary adventure, suggesting similar novels and authors to fill the void left by Diana Gabaldon's masterpiece.

Similar Novels Offering Similar Themes

Here are some novels that echo the various aspects that make Outlander so compelling:

Historical Romance with a Strong Female Lead:

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows: Though lacking the time-travel element, this charming novel features a strong female protagonist navigating post-war life with wit and resilience. The focus on community and epistolary storytelling offers a different yet equally engaging narrative style.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid: A contemporary novel, but with a captivating narrative structure similar to Outlander's intertwining timelines, and a strong female lead whose life unfolds with mystery and intrigue.
The Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly: This historical fiction novel focuses on the experiences of women during World War II, showcasing female strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The detailed historical backdrop and compelling characters will resonate with Outlander fans.

Time Travel and Historical Fiction:

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms by George R.R. Martin: While not strictly a romance, this prequel to A Song of Ice and Fire offers a deep dive into the historical setting and engaging characters often found in Outlander. The detailed world-building will capture your imagination.
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger: A unique take on the time travel trope with a focus on the complexities of a relationship that spans time. It offers a different perspective on the challenges and rewards of a love story across eras.

Books by Authors Similar to Diana Gabaldon:

Several authors write in similar styles to Gabaldon, mastering the blend of historical detail, strong character development, and engaging plots:

Nora Roberts: A prolific author of romance and paranormal romance novels, Roberts has a knack for creating believable characters and compelling storylines. While not directly comparable in historical setting, her novels frequently feature strong female leads navigating complex relationships and challenging circumstances.
Karen Marie Moning: The author of the Fever Series, Moning expertly blends romance, fantasy, and paranormal elements. Her captivating stories featuring strong female leads will hold your attention as much as Outlander.
Elizabeth Lowell: Known for her sweeping historical romances, Lowell captures the era's detail and passion in novels which often feature a similar blend of romance, adventure, and complex characters.

Exploring Different Genres:

If you're open to branching out from the core elements of Outlander, consider these options:

For fans of the detailed historical settings: Explore more historical fiction set in Scotland or other periods that interest you. Many authors specialize in specific historical eras or locations, offering immersive experiences.
For fans of the strong female lead: Seek out novels featuring independent, intelligent, and resilient female protagonists in various genres, from fantasy to contemporary fiction.
For fans of the romance: Dive into different subgenres of romance, such as historical romance, paranormal romance, or contemporary romance, to discover new authors and styles.

Conclusion

The Outlander series leaves a significant mark on readers, and finding the perfect "next read" is crucial. The suggestions above, encompassing similar themes, authors, and genres, aim to offer a satisfying literary continuation of your journey. Whether you choose a historical romance with a strong female lead, a time-travel tale, or delve into different literary worlds, remember that the rich storytelling experienced in Outlander is just the beginning of countless literary adventures waiting to be discovered. Happy reading!