Now, if you don’t want to know _anything_ about this book before reading it–stop right here. {g} This is the original catalog-copy for THE SCOTTISH PRISONER; the general description of the book that I wrote for use by editors (who write the flap-copy and back-cover copy), agents (who write descriptions for their own catalogs for use at international book-fairs), and publishers (who write brief descriptions of new books for the catalogs their sales reps use when describing new books to their accounts). This is the basic description of the book, on which all those things are based. So, for those of you who want to know just what SCOTTISH PRISONER is…read on!
There are only two compensations to Jamie Fraser’s life as a paroled Jacobite prisoner-of-war in the remote Lake District: he’s not cutting sugar cane in the West Indies, and he has access to William, his illegitimate (and very secret) son, otherwise known as the ninth Earl of Ellesmere. His quiet life comes suddenly apart with the appearance of Tobias Quinn, an Irishman and an erstwhile comrade from the Rising.
Some Jacobites were killed; others, like Jamie, imprisoned or transported. Others escaped. And many of them didn’t give up. Quinn still burns with passion for the Stuart Cause, and he has a Plan. A singularly dangerous plan, involving Jamie Fraser and an ancient relic of Irish kingship—the sacred cup of the Druid King.
Jamie has had enough of politics, enough of war—and more than enough of the Stuarts. He’s having none of it.
*********
In London, Lord John Grey has brought home from Quebec a packet of papers that might as well have come equipped with a fuse, so explosive are their contents. Material collected by a recently deceased friend, the papers document a damning case of corruption and murder against a British officer, Major Gerald Siverly. For the sake of his friend, and his own honor as a soldier, John is determined to bring Siverly to justice.
John’s brother Hal, the Duke of Pardloe, takes this cause as his own, and enlists the help of his wife, Minnie, a retired spy in her own right. The Greys show Minnie a mysterious document from the dangerous docket—what appear to be verses, written in a language they don’t recognize. Minnie does recognize the language. It’s Erse, she tells the brothers. The language spoken by Irishmen and Scottish Highlanders.
Erse. The word gave Grey a very odd sensation. Erse was what folk spoke in the Scottish Highlands. It sounded like no other language he’d ever heard—and barbarous as it was, he was surprised to learn that it existed in a written form.
Hal was looking at him speculatively.
“You must have heard it fairly often, at Ardsmuir?”
“Heard it, yes. Almost all the prisoners spoke it.” Grey had been governor of Ardsmuir prison for a brief period; as much exile as appointment, in the wake of a near-scandal. He disliked thinking about that period of his life, for assorted reasons.
“Did Fraser speak it?”
Oh, God, Grey thought. Not that. Anything but that.
“Yes,” he said, though. He had now and then overheard James Fraser speaking in his native tongue to the other prisoners, the words mysterious and flowing.
“When did you see him last?”
“Not since last spring.” Grey spoke briefly, his voice careful.
Not careful enough; Hal came round in front of him, examining him at close range, as though he might be an unusual sort of Chinese jug.
“He is at Helwater, is he not? Will you go and ask him about Siverly?” Hal said mildly.
“No.”
“No?”
“I would not piss on him, was he burning in the flames of hell,” Grey said politely.
One of Hal’s brows flicked upward, but only momentarily.
“Just so,” he said dryly. “The question, though, is whether Fraser might be inclined to perform a similar service for you.”
Grey placed his cup carefully in the center of the desk.
“Only if he thought I might drown,” he said, and went out.
But needs must when the devil drives—and Lord John and Jamie are shortly unwilling companions on the road to Ireland, a country whose dark castles hold dreadful secrets, and whose bogs hide the bones of the dead.
I had no idea this was set in Ireland I am so excited, I can’t wait to read it
look forward to reading with great interest
I am intreged, a side adventure for the 17th century {Batman and Robin} , is it the same as Gellic or is the equivalant of say, instead of speaking Silian dialect which I do and now no longer is used except in remote villiages in Sicily that one speaks Italian, a launguage that is understood all over the Island, or is the orginal mother tongue a mix of perhaps norse {Viking} and Pict.
Just asking ?
I never read any of your Books until a few years ago a lady that has a book store in Fort Morgan Colorado told me about your books. I was looking for a good love story and one that kept you interesting…and I didn’t put it down for days every minute that I had I read and I didn’t stop until the book was finished sometime with work and all it took weeks and sometime three days. the first one I bought from her and I had bought every book you have wrote every since and I can’t wait to read the rest of the books you well write if I did go back in time I sure would loved to go back to meet Jamie his family and the others that you have wrote about……… I have a hard time reading other books cause of how much I like your stories. there are only a couple of other authors that I read .
Thank you so much for writing the great stories about Jamie and his family and friends;
Velinda Nichols
I agree copletly with you Velinda and I would love to know who those authers are since Ihave the same problem! I would be greatful for just a cople of names!
Best wishes Anna
As I have had the same problem, for Diana’s books, particularly the Outlander series, are so wonderful that I just can’t find many authors as good as her, I might suggest one author I have found almost as good; and, that is Audrey Niffenegger, who wrote, “The Time Traveler’s Wife”. I also found books by Lynn Kurland to be a fun diversion while I wait for Diana’s next installment of the Outlander series to come out.
I too, suffer from the same dilema…..I cannot find any books that compare to the Outlander series! However, The Bronze Horseman trilogy by Paullina Simons comes 90% close to Outlander.
Is the Bronze Horseman a series of time travel? I am a new reader since I retired and the first book I read was Outlander, a gift from my daughter. I didn’t realize at the time it was a series with several books to follow. How exciting was that to find out!!! Because I am still reading the 4th, Drums of Autumn, and because I have purchased all of them, I just keep reading….not having to wait until the next was written. I cannot believe I had that first book for so long and didn’t turn the first page until last month. Now I am hooked in Jamie and Claire world.
Make sure you go to Lynn Kurlands website and get a copy of the family tree and time line so you can read the books in order, it’s more fun that way also there are 2 different families that eventually intersect so all of my Kurland books are numbered inside the front cover and then have an A or B after the number so I can keep them in order while reading or lending out. There are MANY so this works for me. Really a very good series. Lighter and not all the history as Outlander series but characters and lives you don’t mind immersing yourself into.
Anna…try Sarah Donati – Into the Wilderness series (6 books)…she writes in a style like Diana…in fact I picked up her first book because Diana had made a comment that was on the front page of her book…I am just reading the series again. A love story of Nathaniel and Elizabeth…NY frontier…late 1700′s – early 1800′s…excellent.
Have to agree with Into the Wilderness. Read the series twice. Fantastic books.
OK. Just bought the whole Sarah Donati series. Hopefully, that will be my “fix” till the new book is out. I am currently rereading, again, Jamie and Claire’s story and have ordered The Scottish Prisoner…Yes, I’ve got it bad.
I also came to Diana’s books through Sarah’s (she also is Rosina Lippi for her more modern stuff.) There was a Diana blurb on the front of Sarah Donati’s book, and I was looking for something to read next. Outlander? I said, that sounds interesting. And 10+ years, many wonderful books and dozens of referrals to friends and family later, I am ever so glad that I did.
Yes Sara Donati’s Into the Wilderness is as good as Outlander. In fact in one of the 6 books she makes a reference to Claire. Excellent reading.
I have a question about Sarah Donati’s series: is it recommended to read the original last of the Mohicans first? I see it is described as a sequel to that book; I have only ever seen the movie (which is fantastic!) As an avid Outlander fan, I too anxiously await the latest installment and love hearing anything else that might be similar to Gabaldon and keep me somewhat satisfied until the next release. Been considering Sarah Donati for awhile so I’m glad for the recommendation.
I know the feeling. I actually convinced a friend who isn’t a big reader to get into Outlander. After one day, she was in love, and was saying that it’s going to be hard for other books to compare to it.
A fantasy series that I found recently and loved (I read all 9 books in 2 months or so) is the Rachel Morgan/The Hollows series by Kim Harrison. One of the books actually has a glowing review from Diana on the back, which is what cemented my interest.
If you like diana’s books you should try Sara Donati and her Into The Wilderness series. A very good story.
the wilderness series
It sounds like a cross between a Lord John book and the Outlander series. My bookcases will now be further tightened by your books. I keep 2 copies of your books: the hardcovers that are in the living room bookcases and a trade paperback set for re-reading. And then more re-reading. I have been waiting for a book from you for a while, so now the entire series will be read again before the new book is touched, ever so gently.
I lived in Scotland and am married to a Scotsman. We were hand-fasted there and now, unfortunately, live in the States.
Your books give me my home back and are the old friends that I visit when I need to shut off the world. Their length helps too. I am very limited in what I can and can’t do: but I can almost always read.
Yum…..another delicious tidbit from diana….
These are never tidbits–they are big-bits, and juicy ones at that!
Erse is the word used by Scots for Gailic, specifically Scots Gaelic. Irish don’t call it Gaelic, they call it “Irish”, and Scots refer to it as Erse.
Okay, I wish the book was out tomorrow (today is Monday), because there’s another book I’m looking forward to coming out in November around the same time!!! I fell into reading the John Grey series, and ended up rereading all the Outlander books. Can’t wait to get my hands on this book!!
Oh I can’t wait! I’m having heart palpatations just reading this!! I LOVE your books, I love Jamie and I can’t wait to read this!
I can’t wait to read the newest novel!!!!! So far, it sounds quite intriguing, as do all of your books. Thanks for giving to the world your extrordinary talent. Many blessings!
Cindy
ooh! Can’t wait!! Love Jamie, love Lord John and love his family.
I read Outlander at least 15 years ago. I have re-read it as well as the others in order, every time a new book in the series is published. I love them. I remember the first time I read Outlander, I would catch myself at work thinking, I wonder what Jamie and Claire are doing today?… then my brain would kick in and say… Hello, they are not real!
You know this of course, but you have great power!
My dream since I was about 10 years old (I am almost 49 now) has been to go to Scotland, it calls me. The closest I have come so far is when I am enthralled by your books and the Facebook page for Scottish Dream Tours. The pictures they post help me to see Scotland through Jamie’s eyes.
Some day soon I will make it to Scotland,
Until then,
Thank you so much for introducing me to Jamie and Claire!
June
I, too, share your dream! Scotland “calls me” everyday:) I’m a bit obsessed actually & wear a standing stone pendant around my neck everyday, hoping that it will someday transport me to 1742 so I can find Jamie & Claire! So far, no luck! I’ve attempted to talk my husband into moving their with our 2 young kids, but he’s too worried I will meet a strong Highlander and won’t even entertain the idea..haha! Little does he know, he reminds me so much of Jamie every time I read this amazing series. He’s Irish though…I am a lucky woman!!!
I so love this series, it is my all time favorite read!!!
“Je Suis Prest” to go to Scotland today!!!!
Shelly
oops, typo…1743! Wel,l maybe it was subconscious, if I got their in 1742 I could beat Claire to Jamie!!;)
Can’t wait to get my hands on this new book!! Great Xmas present!!! Thanks Diana for sharing all this lovely stories with us!
I have more of a question. This book is a in between book?? Meaning it’s when Clair returned back to her time and this is the telling of what happened to Jamie?
Dear Lee-Ann–
Yes! You got it. {g} (Also it’s what happened after the events in BROTHERHOOD OF THE BLADE, but focused on _both_ Jamie and Lord John.)
–Diana
…can’t wait! the more twists and turns your stories take, the more there is to savor and enjoy!
Wanting moooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooore
I CAN’T WAIT! Sounds amazing. Will you follow it to Melbourne (Australia) some time in the near future after it’s release?
Thank you for writing these books!
Dear Becki–
No, I’m not doing any touring for this book–none of the publishers want to do it (probably largely the thought of Hideous Expense in these days of recession {g}), and frankly, neither do I. I want to stay put and work on WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD!
–Diana
Hi Diana,
I do hope you will be coming back to Australia for the launch WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD!!
(
I missed seeing you last time thanks to a broken foot the week prior to yout tour and being on cructhes was just too much to drive 3 hrs and then try to get into see you
You did sign a book for me though, as a generous neighbour took my copy along with her.
Expect me to be int he front row next visit !
Hi Diana,
I’m glad you’re going to get to stay home for a bit and write and rest–it seems like you’ve been doing a ton of traveling lately. Frankly, I don’t know how you do it! [g]
Is there any chance you’ll be doing a blog-tour for Scottish Prisoner? If so, how does one go about signing up to host you?
Thanks!
~ Lara
Dear Diana,
I’d rather travel from Australia to Arizona and see you at the ‘Poisoned Pen’ if it meant more words from your clever head and warm heart on the page!
We do love you ‘Down Under’ and I am doing my best to zealously ‘push’ your books on to everyone I know!
Just love the sense of humour in your fabulous excerpt!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
Kindest regards
Antipodean Janet
Question: When you realized that Outlander was not a “practice” and that you were going to continue the story…was it a plan to create these other avenues of the story lines? I ask because I have really never read anything quite like this series and the fact that its intertwined in other books is intriguing. I apologize ahead if you been asked this question before, redundant questions can be trying.
I can’t wait. I am planning to be at the launch party. Though still have to contact The Poisoned Pen.
I’m thinking we’re finally going to find out why Geillus Duncan Abernathy wanted to find Brianna at the end of Voyager.
I was wondering that as well!
And why Flora McDonald gives Claire a ‘knowing’ look in Breath of Snow and Ashes.
And who the ‘white lady’ was on the moors near ‘Ardsmuir’.
And why ‘she’ was looking for both Jamie and John.
And…..
Antipodean Janet
As a fan of all the books in the series, I also am intrigued (Nell notice the correct spelling). And I, too, wonder if Erse is Gaelic. I’m looking forward to the additional sidebar to the main story.
“Only if he thought I might drown,” he said, and went out.
LOLOLOLOL!!!!!!!
As much as I love reading about Jamie and Claire, and their families, I’m so glad you’ve taken the time to tell us Lord John’s stories. I’ve quite enjoyed getting to know him better and have found I have a great deal of respect for the man. Plus, he’s got a wonderful, if somewhat dry, sense of humor. His last statement in the passage you’ve just shared with us, had me laughing out loud. I’ll enjoy reading about how you bring about the change in his and Jamie’s relationship…. well, heck, I’ll just enjoy reading the whole book, period! Thank you!
Wow I cannot wait to read this, I will be first in line. Such an unusual story, full of fantastic characters that leaves me wanting more.
So then this is not the next book in Outlander? Just a side story in the Lord Johy Gray line?
Either way I’ll buy it, because I love your writing. Just want to get it clear in my mind what I’m in for.
Dear Mary–
Neither one. It’s kind of a hybrid book, in that it follows BROTHERHOOD OF THE BLADE, in terms of Lord John’s life–but also tells the story of Jamie’s life during part of the time when he was separated from Claire. I think you’ll enjoy it. {s}
–Diana
“I think you’ll enjoy it”….lol…Understatement of the year!
I am looking forward to more about Lord John’s brother, the Duke-he is quite the character. Your brain is truly a gift. Write fast.Please.
Diana — if you write it, we will certainly ENJOY it!!!!!!!!
Oh Goody!! Thank you. and as for telling us about the book, it’s what we could read on the inside flap so what’s the flap?? LOL
Looking forward to reading it but it might not be till after Christmas since it is on my list!
Thanks for all the writing you do. I love the stories (all of them) the characters and the other folks in my “real” life who I have met because we all love your stories. What a wide web you spin!! (sure it should be an eight legged spider on the new book rather then an octopus? LOL Just asking!!)
Anything about Lord John is a treat. His is a very interesting, comples and likeable personality and is an excellent counterpoing to Jamie’s . More, more and more.
I’m still waiting for the continuation of Jamie’s story….when will we see it?
Dear Rosalie–
This _is_ a continuation of Jamie’s story–it’s part of what happened to him while Claire was in the future, and I think you’ll enjoy it.
If you mean when’s the next book that follows AN ECHO IN THE BONE….see the earlier blogpost titeld “Book 8 Has a Title”.
–Diana
Okay Okay, you got me at Erse. How I love your character John Grey and the dialogue you set up between he and Hal is just enticing…narrative about John and Jamie alone? I am so there. Come on release date!
As usual, you have left our mouthwatering for more, oh the torture.
How enticing! I can’t wait!
Every Xmas I have to write a list of gift ideas (for me) for my husband. This title is going at the top, heavily underlined, and in red ink! Love both the Outlander and Lord John series of books. Thank you so very much for writing them.
You have such a fantastic way with words! The worlds you build in your books, and subsequently, my imagination are so vivid as to be almost tangible when I am in among the imagery. Thank you!
Fantastic hook, Diana. The description oozes masculinity, angst, and mystery; Jamie and John. I am so looking forward to reading The Scottish Prisoner.
Do you get as excited about your stories as the reader does? Do you have chills, tears, joy, etc, as the words come to you? Just wondering.
I cant wait to read “The Scottish Prisoner”, tbh since I first started reading your books a few years ago I cant seem to put them down. The Frasers seem like part of my family, never before have I felt such a connection with fictional characters. I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for introducing such wonderful, honest and intriguing characters into my “tame” life………Im chomping at the bit to read the next installment of Outlander. HAIL DG!x
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I can not wait to have this book in my hot little hands and hide away and devour the whole thing. Great excerpt. The relationship between Jamie and John is so compelling to me and I truly adore both these characters. Looking forward to lots of spicy tension between them.
I’m so glad you published this. I can’t say I was excited about the Scottish Prisoner, thinking it would be similar to previous stories, but now I AM excited and can’t wait for its release. Will there be an audio version, and if so, who is the reader?
Dear Anita–
Since when have I _ever_ written a book that was “similar to previous stories,” pray? {g}
–Diana
Had me from the reading of the title.
I am wondering is there by any chance- you will be using Davina Porter for narrotor of this book? I am hoping you will do an audio book for those of us who spend hours in a car and other multitask activities.
I know that sounds crazy using a female voice with two men as leading roles, but I am amazed with her skills in bringing the past books you have written to life.
Looking forward to The Scottish Prisoner!
Dear Sheila–
There _will_ be an audiobook of THE SCOTTISH PRISONER, it _will_ {crossing fingers} be out at the same time as the print copy, and it will be read by _two_ fabulous actors. Jeffrey Woodman has read all the Lord John books to date, and he’s flat-out wonderful; partly by serendipity but mostly by talent, he actually sounds almost exactly like Lord John sounds in my head. {g} He’ll read all the scenes (about half the book) from Lord John’s point of view. Rick Holmes (for whom I’ve only heard a small bit of an audition tape, but that was good, and I trust the Recorded Books people implicitly) will read the scenes from Jamie’s point of view. I think it will be terrific, and can’t wait to hear it!
–Diana
Jeffrey Woodman was excellent in all the Lord John books and I look forward to being introduced to the voice of Rick Holmes as Jamie. I think this combination will further enhance the experience. For years whenever we would get into the car my son would plead “please mom, do we have to listen to Jamie and Claire?” Lucky for him, he has his own car now. Hopefully Davina Porter will read #8. I’m ready for re-read #3.
I love Jeffrey Woodman as Lord John! He’s exactly perfect for Lord John (and now I know why), but I’m wondering how I’ll feel about Rick Holmes after Davina Porter has created Jamie for me. When I surface after one of the Outlander series books I marvel at her ability to imbue her voice with whatever it is that makes him disctinctly male, along with every other male character she does. Not to mention making him a very charismatic and attractive being
My hat is off to her mad skills!!!!
I have a gf who commented she isnt into LJ and doesnt like him all that much .. SHOCK HORROR from me… as a response!
I have always like LJ, but started to really understand him more and love him in the stories after listening to the LJ audio books.
I have suggetsed to my gf that she tries listening and then tell me what she thinks of LJ…
love the audio books… working on the farm or on the ride on mower or travelling I have the books on.. I dont care if I have heard them more than once, as I find I still pick up on things and events sometimes have more meaning as you realise the implications of the actions earlier…
No, no, no, Lord John should have a British accent NOT an American accent. It is wrong. Sorry…
In my humble personal opinion, Davina Porter is the ‘ultimate’ voice for our Jamie, and John, and Claire et al.
Antipodean Janet
To have a non English accented Lord John would be like having Dolly Parton’s voice for Claire!
Or Fran Dressher [aka The Nanny]. Ewan McGregor in his beautiful full Scots would work for Jamie though.
I agree with you Janet, Davina Porter really brought all the books to life. I wish it was her that did all the readings for all of Diana’s books. IMHO that is…*smile*
Dear Diana,
Thank you. I can’t wait, *only* 64 days to go, but whose counting?
Fiona
Can’t wait to read this. It sounds very interesting. And now we’re Ireland? even more far reaching than before.
Oh my . . . The waiting just got worse!!
When will the Scottish Prisoner be on general release in Scotland?
Dear Fiona–
Should be out in all the English-speaking markets on November 29th!
–Diana
Hey just in time for my birthday!!! Perfect
that date is now in my outlook calender !!!!
)
YAY !!!!!!!!!
Great timing. The day before my birthday 8) Always ask for Barnes and Noble gift cards to buy books for my nook! The Scottish is at the top of my wish list!
I’ve been to both Ireland and Scotland, so this will be a double treat. I’ve already pre-ordered a copy from Amazon. Can’t be soon enough!
This is going to be an awesome story! (they all are) Can’t wait!
I have been anxiously awaiting this instalment of the Lord John series and ordered it as soon as it became available for pre-order! I’m not sure, however, that I will last till November/December, when it is due to arrive! Keep up the great work, Diana! Your books are the ones I always come back to – like catching up with old friends!
Hi Diana, my sister and I had just started reading your series. We just love them! I will be traveling to Italy and Ireland this November but just have to go to Scotland now. Only have three days. Where should I go?
We just returned from a two week trip through Scotland. If you only have three days, go to Edinburgh and Inverness. Not exactly close to each other, but two very beautiful, and different cities. When we go back again, we’re making Inverness our “base of operation”.
Thank so much.
WONDERFUL!!!!! Though from the title I figured it was about the time Jamie was kept at Helwater. I can hardly wait for it to come out; but I feel this way with every one of the books I hear about the you write.
Ah Diana, you’re posting is like a balm on the chafe of my day. Thank you.
Can you see the big grin on my face? I’m so happy to dive into that world again!!!! Can’t wait to see you in Sedona on Saturday, Diana.
Oohhh, I wasn’t expecting that twist,can’t wait for the book!
Can’t wait to read more about Jamie during this time. Love the the line about drowning!!
Can’t wait to read the Scottish Prisoner but am just bursting to read the followup book to Echo in the Bone……was left gasping at the end of it.
I recently read Lord John and the brotherhood of the Blade……what other Lord John Books are available and in what order should they be read?
I can’t tell you how much I love your books. I had gotten away from reading for a long time..after I got glasses but someone gave me Outlander and that was it…I was hooked and have read the whole series. Thank you for getting me back to reading.
I’m looking forward to learning more about Minnie. I like LJG so much and can’t wait for this book to come out! Hopefully it’ll be nice and thick!
The Scottish Prisoner opens up a whole other tentacle in the life story of Jamie Fraser. Thank you for filling in some of the blanks. Twenty years was a long time for Jamie and Claire to be apart and the main books in the series brush so lightly over the events of that time. When Claire left Jamie at Culloden he was still so young and it makes sense that a lot happened before she journeyed back through the stones and found a man who moved seamlessly with printers and smugglers.
Pat Conroy used to be my favorite author………..untill I met Diana’s Outlander.
“murder against a British officer, Major Gerald Siverly. For the sake of his friend, and his own honor as a soldier, John is determined to bring Siverly to justice.”
Shouldn’t that be justice For Siverly? Just trying to help.
Looking very much forward to reading Lord John’s next adventure.
Elizabeth
Hi Elizabeth,
the “charges of murder” are against the British officer, so “bringing Siverly to justice” is correct. Siverly wasn’t a murder victim, he was the one charged with the murder. Hope this clarifies.
Jen Reese
It sounds fabulous. I am so keen for it to be released here in nz!!
To be honest, up until a little while ago – I didn’t really like Lord John (prob because of Claire’s perspective until the last couple of books too!) but thought I would try the books written about him… and lo and behold – I like him so much more now… Thanks for your great writing and am sort of glad that you aren’t touring so that you finish that next book!!! Then you can tour – Ha ha.
I can not wait. may have to use a few sick days from work because I will not be able to put it down!!!
I love that Minnie was a spy. I appreciate that there are always strong, smart women in your books.
Dear Diana,
I was introduced to “Outlander” after I had major back surgery in 2002. I couldn’t stop until I had finished the book! When talking to my mother in law, she said she had read the entire series (up until then) and had her daughter send me the next two books. Now, my best friend and I are obsessed! Two years ago I lost my vision due to botched cataract surgery on my right eye, so they were afraid to operate on the left. Then, “An Echo in the Bone” was released, and I was dying to read it. My children got together with my husband and bought me a Kindle! Yours was the first book I downloaded! Since then, my vision has been corrected enough to return to normal vision in my left eye, and I have started re-reading all the novels. Can’t wait for the next book in the series, but you can bet I will pre-order “The Scottish Prisoner” for my Kindle.
What a wonderful gift you have!
“I would not piss on him, was he burning in the flames of hell” LOVE THAT LINE, can I steal it?
I usually say (about my ex-daughter-in-law) that I wouldn’t spit on her if she were burning on my front porch, but I like your line better!!!
Of course, we all know that Lord John doesn’t mean it. He loves Jamie and works hard at not showing it. I think that’s what’s so intriguing about these characters, that they can still be friends, knowing what they do about each other.
Jamie in his prime! I think he is in his 30s .. ish in Scottish Prisoner? Can’t wait to find out more about what he gets up to ! And if Claire can’t be his companion, well LJ will be very interesting !
Yeeeeaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!
Did not know what to expect about this new book (except that it would be excelent, of course) Now I’m really excited, cant wait. I love all the mystery in the Lord John Books, now sweet sexy Jamie is in this one too! Do I dare say it?… Might this one possibly be my new fav?…… (giggle giggle tremble tremble)… can’t wait to find out!
I can’t wait! When will it be released?
Will you be at the Sedona Book Festival Oct. 1st? I cannot wait until the next book comes out! Still shocked and realing from the ending of Echo!!! I began reading the Outlander series this past July and am in the middle of my first reread. I am utterly hooked. The world you create with your writing is exquisitely heart-wrenching, and populated with the most amazing people ever. Brava!!!
Dear Susan–
Yes! Will definitely be at the Sedona Book Festival Oct. 1! I’ll be speaking at 2 PM (it’s at Yavapai College campus), and will be there to sign books afterward. The Well Red Coyote will have books for sale, but I’ll be happy to sign books people bring from home, too.
–Diana
Love it!! I can’t wait till the end of November.
Brilliant ! The Outlander series are my all time favourite novels. When I read them I feel as if I have returned home. And yes, I did travel throughout the highlands of Scotland with my knapsack and my camera – Glorious Indeed. Write On Diana !!! We love you :<)
I have read and enjoyed all the Outlander series of books and am looking forward to the next one. Whilst working as an RN at an aged care facility in Townsville, Australia, I shared the stories with an elderly resident who read the first four books before her eyesight failed. After this I would give her a precis of the stories, which she enjoyed, but unfortunately she passed away before finishing the series. I would like you to know that your books brought a lot of pleasure and enjoyment to a lovely elderly lady – and to me. Thank you. I’m sure I am not the only Australian who, once started, has difficulty putting the books down!
This is available for pre-order on Amazon.com!
http://www.amazon.com/Scottish-Prisoner-Novel-Lord-John/dp/0385337515/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317207742&sr=8-1
I’m on the list!
I had my doubts about this book, anticipating an unwelcome excess of Jamie Fraser. The story description confirms my worst fears. The first word that came to mind was contrived. Oh well. At least I can enjoy the much too small part that involves John Gray and his family. BTW, what exactly was the near- scandal that landed John at Ardsmuir?
Marianne,
You will have to read ‘Brotherhood of the Blade’ to learn of the near-scandal that landed Lord John at Ardsmuir. ‘Brotherhood of the Blade’ is by far my favourite Lord John. You will love it!
Antipodean Janet
Well goodness gracious me Marianne! Maybe you should go back and re-read “Brotherhood of the Blade” for yourself. Methinks you jump a little too quickly to your conclusion that The Scottish Prisoner will offer an (unwelcome) excess of Jamie – you might want to leave yourself room to be a little more generous, following it’s publication.
I have read Brotherhood of the Blade, more than once. That has exactly the right amount of Jamie, minimal to be exact. This one has the two of them going to Ireland together. Please.
Dear Marianne–
Well, you’re certainly welcome to like or not like any character–but the fact is that these two men’s lives are entangled. You know what their relationship was at the end of BROTHERHOOD, and (presumably) what it is in A BREATH OF SNOW AND ASHES and AN ECHO IN THE BONE. Plainly, there’s a missing piece of the puzzle that explains how they got from the one to the other, and that’s SCOTTISH PRISONER.
–Diana
What is “Plague of Zombies”? I saw it on a question on the Daily Lines?
Marianne the scandal that sent LJ to Ardsmuir, I believe was what happened at the Hellfire Club.
(LJ and the Hand of Devils. One of the other books in the LJ series.)
I guess not everybody can Luuuuvvvv Jaime… I do have a very high regard for LJ, he has a wonderful sense of humor, and a great vocab, ala Diana…The more I get to know him, the more I like him! Looking forward to “Prisoner”!
Dear Iseabail–
“Plague of Zombies” is a novella, which will be published in an anthology (called DOWN THESE STRANGE STREETS, edited by George RR Martin and Gardner Dozois) on October 4th.
Now, chronologically (in terms of the Lord John stories), “Zombies” _follows_ THE SCOTTISH PRISONER–it’s set in 1761, which SP is set in 1760. I did build it so that it could be read alone or–if you can’t wait {g}–before reading SCOTTISH PRISONER (it has one very minor spoiler, but it won’t ruin the novel for you).
Physically, “Plague of Zombies” takes place on Jamaica.
(It’s published before SCOTTISH PRISONER because it’s published by a different publishing company.)
And Marianne will be happy–Jamie occurs only in Lord John’s thoughts in that one. {g}
–Diana
Diana,
Thanks for the info on Zombies. Will read it after Scottish Prisoner, something to look forward to! I really don’t want Marianne to be happy…the rest of us are greedy for any and all of Jaime, and Lord John…ect…let’s not focus on her being happy! Thanks!
I want more! I have also read all of the Lord John books and love them. Can’t wait. By the way, I love George R R Martin as well. I’m reading book 3 in his Game of Thrones series. But, at the same time, I am listening to Dragonfly in Amber in the car for about the third time. Just finished listening to Outlander for the third time. Just love it.
I have read all the Outlaner books. I find myself draw to Celtic music and stories. I’ve been telling my family that if there is such a thing as reincarnation, I may have been Celtic in a previous life. Both my parents are French….in researching my ancestry, this year, I have discovered that my grandfather’s great-grandmother, is a Fraser! Her father was a Pierre and grandfather Malcohm! Now I know why this has such a pull on me!
Claire
I can’t wait to read this new book, Lord John has been one of my favorite persons in the books and he deserved his own book series!
From what I’ve read so far it’s going to be special, so thank you so much, for the countless hours of reading pleasure….
Are there any hopes to read it translated into Italian ?
Dear Marta–
I certainly hope so, but I don’t know yet.
–Diana
Even though I don’t care much about reading a Grey story –I do love anything about Jamie. But I am curious how it fits into what was already written– obviously Jamie never mentions this adventure to Claire– which is odd.
But of course– I will read it.
Maybe Jamie did tell her, we just didn’t hear about it.
I’m hooked already. Pre-ordered from Amazon. I’ve read all the John Gray books because they mentioned Jamie and Claire and were a connection. I swear this is the best series I’ve ever read. Can’t wait for #8 even though I know it can’t be as good as the earlier books….I mean the odds are…but so far Diana has not disappointed.
Have any other books created such a following? I don’t think so.
*jumps up and down like a little kid waiting for Christmas and it’s just days away* Oh boy, oh boy!!
This was a fantastic day! Havent been much of a reader over the past 20+ years since college. But over the past few years have read your books and I have thoroughly enjoyed them. Someone told me that once you start to read the frst chapter of the first book you wont be able to stop. They were right. Each book leaves you wanting more and what is to come. It was an honor to be able to sit in on your reading and meet you in person. Thank You.
Dear Timothy–
Thanks so much! I had a wonderful time at the Sedona Book Festival–met _so_ many nice people! {smile}
–Diana
hooked, line and sinker…..reel me in.
I cannot wait for SP to come out. I have always been an avid reader but all your books are always wonerful. I too feel like there can NEVER be enough about Jamie in your stories. He and John are wonderful foils for each other and I enjoy both.
OH MY LORD!!!!! I’ve just discovered this book was coming! I’ve squealed and ran in circles in my office, clapped like a seal, and frightened my cat! And I can’t stop with the exclamation points apparently! LOL Diana, may I express my total love for you for writing another Lord John Grey novel?! I came late to the Outlander series, and while I really enjoyed them all, I was really there for John and Jamie. (Feels like a sacrilege saying that on this board! No offense intended. I have turned so many people on to these books. That pays my dues, doesn’t it? lol) I adore Lord John and all that angst and bravery in his story- and the humor. But seriously, ever time he and Jamie are even in the same country together, my heart beats a little faster. I know some things can never be, but still…sigh. Somebody get me a spoon for all that delicious angst!!!
Hi, Diana. I’ve been a long-time fan, almost from the very beginning. I think I originally read Outlander at about the point that Dragonfly in Amber was being published. Of course, I was instantly hooked! Anyway, I love your books and writing, and always highly anticipate any new stories. Over the years I’ve become addicted to books “on tape” and have read many of your works, including the Lord John stories, through Recorded Books’ excellent recordings (at first by directly renting them from Recorded Books and later via Audible.com). I’ve noticed there’s no mention so far of a recorded version of The Scottish Prisoner. Is there going to be one? Am I going to have to wait long after initial publication? And will it be available on Audible? I hope, I hope, I hope….
Thanks for giving me so many hours of enjoyable respite from modern life!
Deb
Dear Deborah–
There will certainly be an audiobook of THE SCOTTISH PRISONER! (And I’m sure it will be available through Audible.com–though produced by Recorded Books.) Jeff Woodman will of course be reading–he just -is- Lord John –but there will be a second reader, too, since the book shifts viewpoints back and forth between Jamie and Lord John. A new actor named Rick Holmes will be reading Jamie’s scenes. I think it’ll be Really Good; looking forward to hearing it!
–Diana
Hang on. You left us at the end of An Echo in the Bone with Brianna’s son hurtling through the darkness in a mine tunnel in Scotland. I have been wondering for two years what was going to happen to that little boy. And now we are going back in time to see what happened to Jamie when Claire was back in the future in Boston? What about the little boy?!
Dear Juliet–
Jemmy’s fine. {g}
–Diana
I’m with you Juliet!! I have been so worried about Jemmy and about how Jamie is going to react to Claire having slept with Lord John!! I hope he understands like he has in the past. I can’t wait for the sequel. I haven’t read any of the Lord John books and haven’t been interested until I read some of you saying they were interesting. I’ll have to give one a try..I’d rather read about Claire and Jamie though.
I’m really looking forward to this. I see that I need to really re-read and I say that with much enthusiasm!
so we may go into the gloam of 12-21-2012 never knowing the rest of the story that comes with WIMOH’sB
i guess i will write my own next part of the story ~Thanks Diana for such entertaining and informative reading these last decades. I love Claire, her strong warrior heart and her healing methods and i think the one she used to correct a shoulder out of place – an ol timey remedy is now a very popular one used to correct rotator cuff impingement and i have wondered if they picked it up from this book; it made so much sense …..
for you time travel story lovers, please check out the updated version of Jude Devereaux’s A KNIGHT IN SHINING ARMOUR. it should give you some much needed peace – it is truly lovely story.
peace and light be with you all
DG is so far above other authors that it has made it very difficult for us readers. But, I also found Paullina Simons trilogy and LOVED IT! In reading the reviews on Goodreads.com, I never thought I would, but I’m happy to say I was completely mistaken. Outlander and Tatiana&Alexander (The Bronze Horseman) are my 2 favorite series and recommend them often.
My third favorite is the Fever Series (5 books) by Karen Moning which is quite a ride. Again, I would never have thought I would like paranormal, but Karen Moning is also an excellent author.
i am so happy its in ireland i have all of your books and think its great you live out here in arizona as do i thanks mary henderson
is this ideal for a chritmas gift
It *was* an ideal Christmas gift! So glad my parents took my months’ and months’ worth of whining, obnoxious hints and got me a copy. …I spent the past few days gobbling it down at my desk at work – thank goodness for the slow season giving me time to properly obsess over John Grey (Who has had an interesting affect on my imagination while attending the yearly Seven Years’ War reenactment over the course of the past few books…). So awesome. Thanks for continuing to write of his adventures (and other assorted you-know-whats)!
I am a avid fan Diana but confused over the “scottish prisoner.” I couldn’t wait to get my hands on what I thought was the latest of the Jamie/ Claire story.
When I began reading it, William was a baby and I have read this before in another one of the novels.
In the last book Echo of the Bone William is an adult.
The Scottish Prisioner is not new ?
Can you help me understand?
Thanks
Sheila
Dear Sheila–
Er…well, I’ll do my best: a) you appear to have bought the book without reading either the back cover blurb or the flap-copy (both of which were carefully designed to explain to people _exactly_ what this book is and where it fits in the overall story), b) you seem to have not read either the first or second chapter, which would have told you in some detail the time, place, and situation of the characters. And c) while you’ve plainly found my website {g} (since you’re posting on it), you seem not to have looked at any of it–announcements, descriptions, and excerpts from THE SCOTTISH PRISONER have been posted here for the last several months.
That would be my best guess as to why you’re confused.
Helpfully,
–Diana
Please hurry up and complete the 8th book, WRITTEN IN MY OWN HEART’S BLOOD. I cant wait a whole year! Or post some more cliff hangers! I would like to know how Jamie confronts Clair about her marriage to John. Just a little clif hanger please!…..
I noticed the publication date 2 months too late here in Finland. Just ordered this book in English and just can`t wait to get this in my hands….. I am waitin also 8th book, I started to read all seven again…. I have to say your books causes some kind of addiction in a good way!!! I usually read your books first in English ( they are published first) and then Finnish ( have to wait translation about year). But I dont mind, I always enjoy and get more addicted…
Loved the book itself, but the audiobook narration…eesh!! The narration standards have been so high until now, did they switch producers or something?
Diana,
You should have considered giving Some kind of warning regarding your flap cover as to the true what we readers are getting into. I liked the subject matter, being a Scot-Irish lass me’self. However, halfway through the book a had to deal with male gay porn. Would have liked to not waste my time having started it. I’m a liberal and I’m glad you have so many loyal fans but for those of us who are reading you for the first time- I can tell you I won’t make that mistake a second time.
A
Amanda, no response from Diana that I can see, I”m enjoying this book immensely thus far, (apart from the aforementioned gay porn; not necessary). BUT… I’m still waiting to find out whether Bree and Roger’s little girl (with the hole in the heart) survived the op in “our time” when the family, and Claire, returned through the stones for the op, not to mention what Jamie got up to during that period. The next book at that time was about William, again, during the War of Independence.
Dear Tootsicola–
[cough] Actually, if you read the last part of ECHO, you do indeed know that Amanda’s surgery was successful. Though why you would think Claire returned through the stones with the family…hmm. Perhaps you _haven’t_ read AN ECHO IN THE BONE? (“As for the next book…was about William”–what are you smokin’, there? Did you read the first page of ECHO, see the name William, and quit? Has it not occurred to you that there are a _lot_ of characters in these books? William is one of them, but “the book” (whatever book you mean) certainly isn’t “about” him. Sheesh…)
–Diana
If there is “gay porn” in scottish prisonners so I’m a gay porn addict ! Please, Diana, don’t change a word !!!!!
John Gray is the perfect symbol of the readers. Like him we are in love with Jamie, and like him we know that sex is impossible between us. We can just be near him, listen to him, look at him, dream of him…and live our lives alongside. That’s why I like Lord John so much
There are complaints about ‘gay porn’? Oh please. This is as much, if not more, Lord John’s book, so why on earth shouldn’t we read of his sexual exploits. Why is it okay to read the other characters getting down and dirty, but heaven forbid we read of a man’s sex life with another man. God knows Lord John deserves all the happiness he can get and I for one love reading anything to do with him. I just hope he gets a ‘happily ever after’ at the end of the series, as he deserves it. Claire and Jamie are pretty much certain to get their happy ending, but I’d hate for John not to find happiness and love too.