I’m going to have to agree with katjenlily on this one. I was pretty disappointed in this book because it seemed like a cool idea. Turns out that it was just a romance novel in the guise of historical fiction. This book seemed to rely on sex (and lots of it!), violence and torture to keep the reader interested, instead of any genuinely good writing.

There were some good moments, but overall I thought the characters were underdeveloped (and annoying as hell!) and most of the dialogue was ridiculous.

I could rant a lot more about the main character, but that might spoil the ending for someone else.

Not my cup of tea, thanks anyway….

I read it in French some years ago – the whole series, though I got bored in Fiery Cross part 1 and stopped. But I’m not sure why, I wanted to read it again, so I bought it in English (since it has improved a lot in the years between my first reading and this one!). I brought it on a trip and it’s an excellent book for travelling, small yet long (it took me a week to read, which for me is a very long time!).

All right, I’ll admit, the main two characters are a bit too perfect, no flaws whatsoever, but I guess you’re not reading this if you just want great litterature. And, frankly, who wouldn’t love Jamie? He’s like a wild prince charming. The story is full of twists and turns, there’s humor and sex… a great read ;)

I’m reading and listening to this for the 3rd time in 3 years. I don’t know what magic keeps bringing me back to this book. It is not strictly a romance novel, but is more historical fiction with a very strong romance plotline running through it. I can’t imagine it not appealing to someone, but it certainly has its graphic moments, so if you are not a fan of realism (what I consider it, anyway), then I’d suggest something a bit more fluffy (go see Kathleen Woodiwiss instead – still good, just not as shocking). This is a novel written for strong, smart women who like history, kilts, dangerous adventure, and getting all weak in the knees over strong men. And if you prefer studying the complicated workings of a complicated relationship, you’ll likely enjoy it. Not for the faint of heart, though, for sure!

BTW, if you listen to the abridged audio, you will miss some of the violent bits, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it – those sometimes unpleasant scenes add a lot of depth to the characters and story.

And to address a previous poster about D. Gabaldon’s writing – I think she writes the way she thinks and talks, which I find refreshing. It is not stuffy or stilted, and is very easy to read as a result. I’ve read the whole series and have not been disappointed yet.

I read this book after nearly all my female friends and relatives had recommended it to me. Huge mistake! I couldn’t believe my normally discerning friends and relatives liked the annoying heroine, abusive hero, and subpar writing (let alone admited to reading it). It seems like the kind of book that should be hidden and only brought out when in need of a romantic cheese fix or a good laugh.

I fell in love with Claire and Jamie in this book. I don’t often re-read books or really get into romance novels but this one is so fun. It is part mystery, part action, it has a strong female character and a dashing male character. Who wouldn’t fall in love…