Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

TITLE:  Outlander
AUTHOR:  Gabaldon, Diana
GENRE:  Fiction/Historical Fantasy
DATES READ:  2/7/2012 - 3/11/2012
MY RATING:  4.5/5

I picked this book up while out with my boyfriend.  The back of the book's description made it seem like a thrilling story.  However, the mixed reviews I have seen make it appear to be either a fabulous historical adventure or a pure romance novel (telling tales of "gripping sex scenes").  Now... I make a point to avoid the romance section.  I don't have anything against them, but I prefer stories with more substance to them than pointless "romping" about...

...I have finally chosen a side with my opinions of this book (even though it took me over a month).  However, throughout this month of reading, I have decided on the pro-Outlander side of things.  I do agree that while there were moments when the sexual encounters seemed to hinder plot progression, they were done tastefully and were nowhere near as extreme as some of the reviews lead me to believe.

I loved the characters of Outlander and the plot was absolutely fabulous.  I can see why these books have become such a hit.  Any fans of historical fiction, adventure, and even a little romance, will devour this book!  I have to admit... that I already purchased the second book Dragonfly in Amber in hopes of continuing this series.  However, I will take a break before pursuing (the first book was 850 pages!) seeing as this series will be quite an endeavor.

***Photo by B. Bumble***