A Breath of Snow and Ashes (Outlander)

I absolutely adore this series. I don't know if I'll ever enjoy a series as much as I have enjoyed this one. I am dreading the day when I finish the last book. The writing evolves just enough that things stay interesting. Gabaldon is pretty good at avoiding using the same terms/expressions repeatedly, I've had to stop reading a different series because of this. I love the all the characters. Even the ones I don't initially like (Lord Grey) I eventually come to love like the others. It is such a joy to read. I look forward to my 30 minutes-1 hour of nightly reading everyday. I find myself staying up way later than I intend to, just to see what happens, way more often than I'd like.

It is a Outlander book. If you have read one you know its really good. There is a Showtime series based on these books and its pretty much the best showtime series they have ever made that I have ever seen. The premise is a lady walks to some magical stones and goes through one and ends up back in Scotland around Bonnie Prince Charley's time. The books after this is her life and times leaving 1945 and a husband and finding her soul mate a couple hundred years ago. The books progress in time and this is Book 6. I am currently reading Book 7. Totally addictive. When I get done with one book I go into a type of withdrawals for weeks. Then I order another. Should come with a warning like cigarettes.

I am so enjoying the Outlander series. I started in the fall of 2014 and have been reading the books continuously one after the other. I love being in this world and I really enjoy the relationships among the characters. There's definitely sexual content, but with Jamie and Claire and Brianna and Roger it's very sensual and loving, not gratuitous. If descriptive intimate love making makes you uncomfortable, you might find yourself a bit taken aback.I thought it added to the depth of their feelings about one another. The time travel is "logical" as far as time travel goes. It does not have the major believability flaws other books of this genre have. I feel for the readers who had to wait a period of time for each new book in the series to come out.

My first review of a Diana Gabaldon book . . . here goes. I hesitated to begin this volume after crashing bore that was "The Fiery Cross," but the relatively high ranking among the Amazon reviewer community pushed me forward. I am glad to say that I agree with the consensus that "A Breath of Snow and Ashes," the sixth in Gabaldon's series about time-traveling nurse-then-doctor Claire Beauchamp Randall Fraser, is a heartening return to form. ABOSAA is set in North Carolina in 1775-76. It's still too long--but why should the publisher pay an editor when Gabaldon's books are a license to print money? There is still a lot of silly stuff . . . that is if you don't think the whole concept of time travel is too silly in the first place . . . Brianna's efforts to "invent" matches and build indoor plumbing; medical triumph after medical triumph in Claire's surgery; Lizzy Weymiss's marriage to the Beardsly twins--both of them at the same time--because she could not choose between them. Claire's somewhat nonchalant reaction to abduction and gang rape may leave a sour taste in some readers' mouths. A stiff upper lip and getting on with it are all well and good, but this seems a bit much even for Claire, who served as a British Army nurse in World War II. At least this time around, the action is exciting, the plot moves forward instead of in circles, Brianna, Roger and Jemmy are more rounded, mature and less infuriating characters, and we learn interesting stuff about secondary characters including Ian, Jamie's aunt Jocasta and her husband Duncan, the Christie family, and the Bugs. After a misguided emphasis on Brianna and Roger, the focus returns somewhat to Jamie and Claire, who are, after all, the main reason we keep reading. I was entertained. I was not tempted to put the book aside to look at my wallpaper. I decided to put the next book in the series, "An Echo in the Bone," on my Kindle. I was starting to worry. Part of my problem is that I've never much cared for fiction or non-fiction about Colonial America; the French and Scottish settings of the first two books were much more to my taste. To its credit, ABOSAA overcame my aversion. For the record, here's how I'd rank the books in order of preference. Dragonfly In Amber Outlander Voyager A Breath of Snow and Ashes An Echo in the Bone Drums of Autumn The Fiery Cross

Love the book but unfortunately there is a large chunk of the book missing! It jumps from page 178 to page 1219 and then continues in that order to page 1282 then jumps back to page 243. It looks like it continues in order for the rest of the book but there is still a rather large chunk of the book (178-243) completely missing, nevermind the large section of misplaced pages... And of course because this occurs well into the book, it took me a while to realize this misprint, so now my window in which I could return it has expired... I'm not keen on the idea of paying for another book but I don't see as I have much of a choice.. And then what am I supposed to do with this misprinted copy? It's completely useless... What a waste....

The seventh book in the Outlander series, this one continues the excellent twists and unexpected turns one has come to expect from Gabaldon. I sometimes wonder if she stays up nights thinking to herself "what shocking event will I throw at them next?" Again, the Fraser family continue to stand together as chaos continues around them and often pulls them into the whirlpool. When I saw that this book was going to be offered in audio format a few years ago, I pre-ordered it, already familiar with the superb job Davina Porter does on these books. Porter has been narrating audiobooks for over twenty years and has done truly superb versions of

I have now read all but one of the Outlander Series and, for the most part, find them engrossing and fun to read, despite their length. The author writes fluidly and very descriptively, has a captivating premise upon which the series is based, and has created fascinating characters I have looked forward to following. However, I think I am feeling some fan fatique as I near the end of the 8-book tale. The formula is running thin for me, and the non-stop brushes with fate, time, and survival are "a sufficiency, if not a superfluity".

I'm 100 pages in and nothing of any substance has happened. She is a good writer, so it is easy to pass time reading page after nugatory page, but as someone who just came from the TV show and wants to find out what happens, she could have tried to make a point maybe at least every 20 pages. Publisher should have pressed her harder to cut it down.

A necessary part of the wonderful "Outlander" series by Diana Gabeldon. I have read all 8 of the books so far and am anxiously waiting for the final 2 books of the series that Diana is working on. Great historical romance and action series. Stars TV channel has a wonderful series based on these great books. Each season is based on a book.

This is the sixth book in the series. I've read every word of the entire series. I LOVE IT...and I'm tired of it at the same time. This is one of the best series I've ever read. However, with each new book the story gets longer and longer. Here's what I mean: The first book was just over 300 pages and each of the new books is between 500 and 900 pages long. It's becoming at epic EPIC. While I love the story and the characters, I'm beginning to tire of the sheer length of the story. I would suggest to the author that she consider paring down some of her story in the future. All that being said.... I read every word and was enchanted, intrigued and spellbound. I could not stop reading. Claire and Jamie are two of the most entertaining people I've ever had the privilege to spy upon.

There is always the question on how this will "turn out". So many possibilities that I am constantly trying to figure it out. It also makes me wonder, during this crazy election year, if maybe under the present Queen of England, life would not be so bad & why did we ever leave the motherland? I can hear our Founding Fathers screaming at me now. I do love my country and "Old Glory", but these books give us much to think about. I am so frustrated with these 2 people wanting to lead our country that I thank you for letting me vent. "Outlander" teaches us how precious freedom is & that in the wrong hands we could be doomed. We don't know anymore today than they did 200 years ago. Or, how it will " turn out." Either way, God Help Us.

Reviewed at Another Look Book Reviews I stayed up late last night. 3 am on a work night is not a great idea. I've read A Breath of Snow and Ashes (ABOSAA) twice before so it's not like I didn't know how it was going to end. I just get so immensely pulled into the eighteenth century with the Fraser's that I simply couldn't put it down. Doing a re-read of the Outlander series is a time consuming effort and a commitment worth every missed meal and having my bum constantly fall asleep from sitting for great lengths of time. When I got to the end of ABOSAA, I reflected on what I had read since the beginning of the novel and I am just astonished by how much story is compacted into one book. Outlander just blows my mind as no other series does. My main observation during this re-read is discovering how much I really really like Bree, Jamie & Claire's daughter. I have no idea why she annoyed me before. Ok, annoy me might be a bit too strong but I guess I just didn't care for her storyline as much. I remember that previously I had skimmed through the lots of the Roger and Bree storylines (as well as other secondary characters since I was so rabid for anything and everything Jamie and Claire) and that just proves how awesome re-reads of stories can be. I was foolish. By breezing through Bree & Roger's chapters, I was in essence missing important components of Jamie & Claire's life. In feel ABOSAA is one of the most emotional books of the series. It really pulled at my heart strings and invokes a lot of frothing at the mouth outrage by me. This outrage is directed at certain characters that even as I write this, angers me. By this stage in the series the reader is already so emotionally invested in the characters that I find the sense of worry is hightened on the slightest conflict. I always felt during reading ABOSAA that the wonderfully warm magic family bubble that was built on Fraser Ridge could burst at any moment and have everything come crashing down. The imminent American Revolution was always on the cusp of conversations and I loathed the visits from Major MacDonald as much as Claire did. I admit that the Regulation/Loyalists and how the war is prepared for the reader is amazing. Jamie must walk such a tight line and break to one side. I found from a historical perspective, I was much more interested this time around. The constant drama at the Fraser Ridge community never leaves the reader bored with the setting. Funerals, sickness, abductions, brutality, fear, pregnancy, suspicion, religion, Indians, master manipulation (don't get me started on Malva and Allan Christie) and just the daily grind of a hard life of operating a farm in the eighteenth century; all made for a masterfully crafted story. Each chapter felt like its own story yet they all were woven together intricately and they fed off one another. I was never lost. After staying up late reading ABOSAA (and then dreaming about it) today I just feel heavy. I feel fulfilled however I am so happy that ABOSSA was not the last book. I am not ready to let go of the Frasers' or the MacKenzies. (will I ever?) The next book is Echo in the Bone. I have only read it once. My first read through was rushed and I really skimmed through that book desperate for Jamie and Claire scenes. I actually rated it a lot lower than all of the previous books and I do remember being rather disappointed. So on that note, I am ready to dive in now with a completely fresh and new perspective. Random comments - *sniff* Do we ever hear anything more about Josh again?, Oh Ian how I adore you, Marsali is probably the hardest working woman ever written, MALVA!

-- I have been on one helluva marathon read with Diana Gabaldon' fantastic Outlander saga. I have been reading each book back to back. At the start of each novel, I tell myself, okay after this one, I will catch up on some other reading. Then I find myself not being able to resist going back for more and picking up the next novel in the series. Humm.....what are these stories about?- Here are a few words to describe this series- Romance-Historical Romance- Family- Time Travel- War--Survival- Adventure-History-Politics-Religion- Spirituality. Travel through a few Continents. Not to mention that it has a cast of fantastic character's (oh our beloved Jamie and his lucky wife Claire) others that come and go. Just when you think you have seen the last of them, they seem to pop up again. These stories are so tightly plotted they take you on a ton of twist and turns. When I finish a chapter, I pause and think, " did not see that one coming." That has happened quite often, these stories are NOT predicable, and jammed packed full of surprises. To me, these books are classics, I know someday I will pick these books back up and re-read them once again. I have now started my last book " An Echo in the Bone". These characters have become part of my everyday life in reading, I do not know how I am going to be able to let them go, sigh.......... Just found out Ms. Gabaldon is writing book 8 to this saga to be published in March of 2014. Looks like she is also having a hard time saying goodbye to these fabulous character's.

Diana Gabaldon never disappoints me. I'm awed, not only by the sheer volume of her output, but also her imaging of the characters over the many novels of the Outlander series. The only thing I miss is a next installment, though "A Breath of Snow and Ashes" -- if it were an end to the series -- satisfies while still leaving room for future stories, which I've read, are in the works. Her characters have become so lodged in my imagination, they'll stay with me, whatever their doings and however they end their lives on the page. That's my measure of great contemporary historical fiction, though certainly I'm no critic. Being Scot/Irish American, from a family who never discussed its roots, I never quite got the English vs. Scottish enmity, but thanks to the Outlander series, I understand our heritage much better now, wherein just as today, fools can rule the naive and incite the brave to rebellion.

Book 6 of this series continues the Fraser saga wherein there are kidnappings with rescues, a murder mystery solved, revolutionary battles, adult children going separate ways, and new resolves by Jamie and Claire that will play into a new and independent country. It is loaded with suspense and could easily have been two books. The minute details bog down reading sessions. But I am totally into this family until the end. What century that happens is a question.

I have avoided doing a review of each of the previous five books in The Outlander series because I don't know how to talk about them without giving something away. I hate when people do that. Having just finished Book Six--the last one presently available, I have decided to share my thoughts to a degree. I am an avid reader. I always have a book in progress. I finished A Breath of Snow and Ashes three days ago and have yet to start another book. I don't want to leave the characters that I have come to know and love these past weeks just yet. So rather than move on, I reread certain portions, I look at Outlander pins on Pinterest, I talk about them to others who have read them, recommend them to those who haven't, and bewail the fact that the next book doesn't come out until June. That should tell you how much I love these books. Although the most intense love story I have read, the story of time- traveling WWII nurse, Claire Randall would appeal to many male readers as well. There is danger, intrigue, war, and humor, along with the romance. It is an intense story of epic dimensions. Read the set today. The first one is Outlander. I eagerly await the TV series which also comes out in June--even though it means I will have to add the Starz network to my plan!

I am providing this as a review of the condition, not the content. I have this book and bought a copy as a gift for a friend. The covers of the book are torn (but can be taped). The first 50 or so pages are wrinkled like they were wet at some point and allowed to dry. There is mildew on many of those pages. I'm very disappointed in the poor condition of this book.

The writing was wonderful as always with Diana Gabaldon's books. Lots of action packed adventure as the story of Jamie and Claire continues. But when I ordered the book with best price I didn't realize that the size and print would be really small. Approx 1500 pages of small print. Next time I'll spend more to have the larger size paperback or hard cover copy.

If you have been reading the series, or if you have come late to the party and are checking out the books because you have been watching the TV series, you've come to the right place. However, don't start here. Read the books in order, from the beginning. You will not be disappointed. To those who have already read the first 5 books, the only warning I will give about this one is that it is very very rough on Claire. The author does not spare her characters the hardships of life in the mid 1700s. It has a bit of everything and the must satisfying part is that all the bad guys get what is coming to them. I love these books and these characters --- this is my third complete reading of the series.

Let me start out by saying I LOVE Jaime and Claire. I almost feel as if they are real people and their connection and love story are deeply compelling. The first two books are amazing, five stars in my opinion. I've read book one many times over. However, I have now completed the sixth book and what started out as a tragic love story has turned into a soap opera. How much can possibly be done to these two poor souls who want nothing more than to be together? Each book gets progressively more and more outlandish (please pardon the pun). Although Jaime seems to attract problems like moths to a flame, it gets a little ridiculous. Not only that, but it gets very repetitive. Each book is at least 800 pages, some over 1000. We have still yet to circle back to the plot lines of the first book whereby Frank sees Jaime (himself or his ghost) outside of Claire's window in the 20th century. In my humble opinion, this is a story that could have been done well in 4, maybe 5 books. Gabaldon is now on book 8 and working on a 9th and has drawn this saga out over 2+ decades. Just tell me how it ends up already and give these poor souls a break. She keeps saying that it ends happily for them-- I sincerely hope so, but I am getting really tired of watching them suffer over and over again through 8 books to finally see them get there.

Reading through the Outlander series, I liked each book more than the last. Sadly after Voyager, that dipped, and the Fiery Cross was definitely my least favorite of the series (Drums of Autumn was better, but not as good as Voyager). But I am happy to report that Breath of Snow and Ash has surpassed Voyager as my new favorite! I hope this trend continues with book 7 and 8. Happy reading!

This novel is exactly what fans expect from Diana Gabaldon's books. Well developed characters fill the pages with plenty of family drama, insightful and heartfelt moments, as well as developed settings based on intense historical research. While reading there is no skipping over scenes because the next exciting incident and plot twist can happen in a flash. This story reads authentic and tells of the challenges faced in the times while continuing our favorite couple's journey. Claire and Jamie Fraser's adventure of life in the wilderness (Fraser's Ridge) is filled with compassion and drenched in realism. Definitely an exciting book to read.

I'm a bit late to the Outlander series, but I've read the last three in rapid succession and have just began An Echo in the Bone. A Breath of Snow and Ashes is slower paced and more somber than the previous installations. However, Gabaladon continues to illustrate the deep connection between Claire and Jamie. The details about life in pre-Revolutionary America provide a fascinating backdrop for the story. I always have the same thought about 200 pages from the end, "How the heck is she going to wrap this all up in 200 pages?" She manages to weave in dangling subplots from prior books, often in unexpected ways. The sheer workmanship of that is impressive. Often, it seems like the Frasers are living the life of Job, with so many travails and tragedies, it can be overwhelming. However, I think she would be equally criticized if she gave us a fairytale where they live lifes of saftey and comfort. Long time fans have read the books multiple times, which I can't imagine. Yet, from time to time, I find myself thinking about going back and rereading earlier books. A Breath of Snow and Ashes is not my favorite of the series, but it was still a very satisfying return to the Fraser Saga.

I have enjoyed reading these books, but at this point I think she's putting too much in between events. A little too much filler. Two many side stories and not enough finishing of some of the stories. It's a little unfair to include this in this review because I have read all the books once. In the process of reading them. I still have the same questions as I did at the first reading. She probably could write a series for each of the "Children": Ian, Fergus and Marsali, Brianna and Roger, Jemmy and Mandy and of course William, The Ninth Earl of Ellsmere. What happens?????

I read all eight of the Outlander series in two months time. Thank goodness for a Kindle because several of the books were so big my arthritic hands wouldn't be able to hold them although I bought the hard copies for my husband who doesn't use a Kindle. I got so into this series that I'm having withdrawal symptoms after finishing the last book. I loved the family and the adventures they all had. What an emotional roller coaster! I am looking forward to the next book. The author has a terrific imagination and you can tell she has researched the Scottish people and their customs. I fell in love with Jamie and Claire. What a love story. I would recommend this series to anyone. The Television account doesn't it justice. I was surprised that my husband liked the books so well . He was a high school English teacher and administrator Several of my friends have bought the books and are reading them.

Loved this one also. I loved the ending and will not spoil it. I am just as in love with Roger and Brianna as I am with Claire and Jamie. I only give this a 4.5 because at times, it seemed like the same scenario done over again. Otherwise, great writing and the story flowed at a great pace for me. I enjoy being a part of all of their lives. I am saddened to realize that I only have two left in the series now (a third coming). Overall get this series it will hook you!

I love this story very much. The narrative is well done. My problem is it comes in seven installments with no indication which one comes next. It would help very much if they were numbered on the cover. My first Kendal kept them in order. My second Kendal shows the number when you first open it. However sometimes I have to open several to find the one I need next. My third Kendal is not user friendly but has more memory so I have to use it for long books.

I enjoyed reading this book in the series. I found it very entertaining and I started the next book already. This book really lets you see Jamie and Claire as a full family unit. The beauty of their relationship is they manage to find some way to still keep the romance between them alive no matter what they face.

I knew what my book should look like inside AND out. Upon arrival I skimmed every single page for typos also hardcover is always best so no complaints here.

This review is for the entire series. To those who rate it low b/c it is "too long"...did you not notice that before beginning it? To those who say there is too much sex...it IS technically classified as "romance"...skip the sex scenes, it won't take away from the story. To those who say there are inaccuracies (historical,factual)...it is a novel written for entertainment purposes with characters who are not all-knowing, not a history book for educational purposes. Ok. When my husband first brought this book back with him from Iraq (donated to the USO)and he told me he was reading a historical-fiction/romance/fantasy/time travel book, I teased him. I thought no way could such a book be an actual worthy read. I am a constant reader. I have to always have a book. So, when I was in-between books, I picked up this book just to pass the time. Don't make the same mistake I did..DO NOT be fooled by the genre. Don't make the mistake of thinking that these are typical bodice-ripping Highlander trash-romance...they are not. They are real literature. I do not enjoy romance novels, though I will read one if it is the only reading material available. I have to say that this series of books, though they do contain sex scenes, is NOT romance. They are a complex tale full of an entire cast of well-developed characters. I have been on the discussion boards that center around this series. Most of the women seem to be in love with (at least the idea of) the main male character, Jamie. As proof of how good the story told and the writing in this book is, I need to say that the physical description of him (and some parts of his personality) are a complete turn-off to me. He is pretty much the opposite of what I like. However, you don't need to be attracted to a character to enjoy reading about them and to grow to admire and care about them. The love story between Jamie and Claire is quite inspiring, so much so that my husband and I actually got matching tattoos inspired by the books. These stories are so well-written and in-depth, that I read them aloud to my children (simply not reading the child-inappropriate parts aloud) and all of them, from my 7-year-old daughter to my 18-year-old son, are as captivated as I am. I am actually on my 6th read of the series and plan to read them every year. There is so much to the stories, re-reading them periodically doesn't get old. These books weave the tale of well-developed, multifaceted characters, exploring their personal growth, interactions and relationships with one another, their people in their communities, and some well-known historical figures, all within the context of various historical time periods. From Jacobite-era Scotland to pre-revolutionary North Carolina (and many places in between), you will follow a brilliantly-written, gripping saga and you will be a part of a world you won't want to leave.

Wonderful episode from the series of novels. An excellent balance of historical events watching the fuse burning toward a full blown American Revolution, and the fuse burning to a major turning point in the lives and fortunes of the main characters. Also, if you live in NC as I do, but were not born here, the weaving of the history of the state and locales from the coast to the mountains is mesmerizing. It has me planning numerous road trips to discover the history first hand and find out what became of these towns and people--as many of the characters are actual historical figures. If you are of Scots descent, as many of us are, and you have wondered about what it was like when your ancestors got here and how they lived--here it is in black and white and vividly painted with words.

for a much in demand book. The mass-market paperback version is very thick with narrow margins in the center (typical for mass-market paperbacks). Consequently it is hard to open and handle enough to read all the way to the margin. I am not aware of a trade paperback (a bit larger) edition of the book, though.

If you're this far into the Outlander series, you are a card carrying fan. I proudly profess to be one. The family storyline, woven with real relationship issues is what has always drawn me to Diana Gabaldon's work. For me, the love story and family highs and lows is what keeps me coming back for more. I will admit to skim reading at times when the 'technical' 'super accuriate' stuff drags on. I love the perfectly woven elements of political historically accurate info--but if I wanted to learn how to make penicillin in the 18th century, I would just google it in my spare-spare time...after I learn to make shoe leather and unclog a Diesel engine filter. In my favourite works of fiction, I wish we could just get onto the good stuff already. Only small note of personal preference. As too the love story of Claire and Jamie, I am in forever awe of Mrs. Gabaldon's. These two characters are more real and honest than any two characters I have ever read. Their love is layered, deep and long-suffering. Marriage is hard in the best of circumstance and these two love over centuries, over war, over social divides. He is truly the pants in the family, she never wrestles for them and yet, he continuously turns to her, treating her as a partner, fully trusting her, he has her back in ever possible sense of the word. They argue, keep secrets, stress, worry while constantly holding true to their love for each other. I am a forever fan...who perhaps does not yet full appreciate her expanding knowledge of 18th century horticulture.

I really enjoy historical fiction and have been a fan of the Outlander series. I still am, but this book, rather than leaving me wanting more has made me decide to take a break. Perhaps I will read the next one and perhaps not. While there were times when I couldn't stand to put the book down because I had to find out what would happen next, there were other parts that dragged. I would have expected to finish this book in about 2 weeks but it actually took me closer to two months with several other books thrown in here and there. Unlike some other readers I find the development of other characters in the series to be a great addition. Thousands upon thousands of pages about just Jamie and Claire would certainly get tedious. I suspect that in part explains why I was not as enthralled with this book as I have been with some of the others. As much as I'd like to see how the author conceives their various stories to end I may have hit the saturation point.

I have become addicted to the series on Stars . Have come to an end until season 5 starts in February, so decided to read ahead and am now in love with the books . Started with The Fiery Cross, which prompted me to keep reading even though the books are incredibly long I hated to come to the end ! The characters are so loving, brave and at times funny . I really hate the thought of never reading about the lives and adventures of Jamie and Claire Frazer !

Read this series when working at a MT resort where I had limited wifi and no television. I enjoyed having a series that continued thru so many books. The first book is the best so far. It surprised me how many guests at resort told me they enjoyed the series and I think are secretly in love with Jamie. It's fun to fantasize what it would be like going back thru time. After reading a few, I decided there should be a drinking game where you drink a shot every time Gabaldon wrote the words Sassenach, Jacobite, and Culloden... although I wouldn't make it through 1-2 chapters.

I don't know how the author does it. These books are so detailed and full of historic information and at the same time full of passion and love with a large dose of action and suspense. Each one draws one deeper into the world of Claire and Jamie Fraser and their family who now live in America at the beginning days of the Revolutionary War. I love Ms Gabaldon's turn of phrase. She has the most creative way of saying simple things. Her imagery is wonderful. I have enjoyed all of her books so far and am looking forward to receiving the next installment - An Echo in the Bone. The only negative, if it can be called a negative is that once I start reading I don't want to stop. I can usually only quit when my head is nodding and the book slips out of my hands. A few lost hours of sleep are well worth finding out what happens next. A friend, who got me started reading this series, put it well when she said that "these books have warmed many a cold night".

I have seen all the seasons of the series on Starz. And have read the books before each season. I noticed one big change with the book-to-series format but that's not the author's fault. Love the characters and descriptions. I've started #7 although #6 is this coming season.

Excellent beyond compare to anything I've read. Diana Gabaldon is a true wordsmith. I dreaded finishing this book because book #8 will not be published until March 2014. Jamie and Claire are roaming around America and Scotland and I don't know what they are up to. This series of books introduced me to characters that allows me to follow them through their unbelievable journey. Ms. Gabaldon has made Claire and Jamie, as well as all of the other people in their lives, come to life. I started having Outlander withdrawal as soon as I finished the last page of "A Breath of Snow and Ashes". In order to truly be transported to another time and place you must start with the first of this 7 book series, soon to be 8. It is a magnificent read! The Starz Movie Network is currently filming this series in Canada. The series will be great, but will pale compared to the fascinating and intricate detail Ms. Gabaldon has woven in this body of work.

How can anyone adequately review a book with the depth and breadth of Diana Gabaldon's A BREATH OF SNOW AND ASHES? I am not wont to attempt to summarize a story that is better told by its author. The least I can do is point out what Ms. Gabaldon does right: #1 - EVERYTHING - Fascinating characters (real, flawed, complex); Intriguing storylines that have you anticipating each and every adventure; A writing style all her own - par excellence; Plots and subplots. It is impossible not to form attachments to her characters and even the most sensible souls will find themselves forgetting that these characters are not real. I'm not convinced they're not real. The author will make you feel the complex emotions of each character. I personally feel that each and every character, no matter how good or how depraved, has a little hook in my heart... all of them forming a complex connecting pattern like a Celtic knot, encircling my heart, and some with a longer thread than others. It's a feeling I rather enjoy and my life is the richer for it. Is there any better compliment than one can pay to good literature than that? Do not let the size of this book daunt you. It can be savored. The storylines are not easily forgotten and the characters seem to live and breath and are always waiting for you. [...]

I truly love this series. The tender loving moments that strengthens Jamie. and Clare’s bond is the only thing that could allow them to survive the troubles of the times. Again I am so impressed by the attention to historic detail. I love the inter weaving of the other characters and how the love of two people touches and changes the lives of those around them.

I love this book! What I would suggest is maybe making it a 2 book package. Just because I am older and have a had time holding the book. By the time I finish the books in the series the cover falls off. I am very had on my books. Now when I get a new book I wrap it in a zip lock bag to protect it. I love this Series so much after I am done I will be buying the hard copies. I absolutely love the Authors style of writing.

I don't know what it was about this book that set it so much apart from it's predecessor, The Firey Cross, but the episodic nature of the book seemed to work much better this time. I didn't give The Firey Cross a good review because it felt like there was no overlying dramatic arc that tied everything together. There seemed to be no plot, just a string of stories squashed together in one huge book. A Breath of Snow and Ashes is still very much episodic and you finish the book wondering how much more heartbreak and brutalization the Fraser/Mackenzie clan can take and still function as sensible human beings, but it all came together quite nicely in the end. There were several moments during my reading of this book that I could easily imagine it played out on TV as an epic miniseries or as a weekly drama. Diana Gabaldon has a wonderful gift for writing dialogue and it would be a treat to see these books played out in a long-running dramatic series, but the realist in me knows that's not likely to happen and so will keep reading these books as long as the author continues writing them.

I stayed up nights to read this book. It does contain things that seem trivial and of little use to the story, but further on in the book you see their relationship to the story. Very long book and that leads me to skim and scan and the be sorry I did.

Diana Gabaldon has done it again! I was just introduced to the author this spring and have now finished her sixth book of the series, "Outlander". Although each book could stand alone on its own merits; do yourself a favor by starting with the first one. In one sentence, these books are science fiction, romance, action, love stories in a historical context. The first two books have been excellently adapted for television by the Starz network. Mostly filmed in Scotland, the scenery is breathtaking. The sets and costumes are painstakingly accurate and award-winning. Fans are sitting on the edge of their seats awaiting the third season. You will have to excuse me now. My downloading of the next book has just finished and I have to start reading it!!

With the revolutionary war coming to a head, life is turbulent for those in Fraser's Ridge. Jamie, Claire, Roger, Bree, and Ian make some tough choices in this book that will end up changing their lives forever. And as the time draws nearer for that newspaper clipping claiming that Jamie and Claire die in a fire, everyone holds their breaths to see what is going to happen. I loved this book just as I loved the others. My only problem with Ms. Gabaldon's books is that because they're so long, if I don't keep my facts straight, the books start running together. This book got a bit slow for me in the middle, I don't know why, but I had to put it down for a while, and ended up reading another book, but as soon as I picked it back up, I finished it in two days. Go figure. The writing style is as always, genius. Ms. Gabaldon knows her history, and it really shines through in her work. Pick up this series if you haven't yet. As I said, the books are a bit long, about 1000 pages each, but you won't be sorry!!!

It doesn't seem to matter which Outlander book I read I get so engrossed in the story that I have a hard time falling asleep. Ms Gabaldon is such a good writer and her books keep you coming aback for more. Right now I am reading Snow and Ashes for the second time and enjoying it as if I hadn't read it at all. Need I say more. Read the books before watching the series....

I read Outlander over twenty five years ago, it was a book I chose for our three book club members. As each book was published I bought it, and shared it with the other 2 ladies. A breath of ash moves us along through the fight for freedom, this book holds so much rich history told through a modern woman and a fears Scott eyes. I'll not give away any hints as to what happens, just tell yon reader's A Breath of Snow and Ash does not disappoint. It is Harry Potter for Adults!

This book in the eight book series kept me breathless the whole way through. While its a long book (like all of DGs books in the series), it kept moving with plot twists and turns for all the main characters, Jamie, Claire, Brianna, Roger, Ian and Rollo (love Rollo). Even Fergus' story progresses. Whereas the prior book had a couple of places where there was too much storytelling around one incident, this one does not. There's a birth, lots of deaths, kidnapping, rape, an execution, a military battle, a big fire, a little fire, the death of a time traveler and a big time travel. Also, Jamie and Clarie face "the date" that has hung over them for years. At the end, the title makes sense. I am so hooked on this series, I can't imagine giving up in the middle, but there are people who have. If the prior book, made you question continuing I say "power through it" because this book is worth it.

I am reading this series. I love these books. I received this book with a ripped cover!!!!! The reading part had folded corners , and I understand that it is used but I have never received a book that looked this way. I taped it all up and will get buy, but it really will make me think differently about any future buying of books that are used. How can someone say that it is in good condition with the book cover folded in 2 spots and the cover also was ripped in one of the folds. Such a big disappointment. When I loan out books to friends (if it is a hard back I remove the cover) and I give them a bookmark and tell them I expect it back in the same condition. I was so upset with this paperback.

First, let me say I LOVE THE ALL OUTLANDER BOOKS! Secondly, I have not seen any of the Outlander TV series that's on Starz. Diana Gabladon is an incredible story teller. Her ability to tell the story of these characters keeps me hooked & I can't wait to start the next one. I'm a little bummed because I am on the next to the last book :( I have spent a large part of this summer in the western part of NC where Fraser's Ridge was likely set & spent a lot of time hiking there. I kept expecting a tall, red-headed Scotsman or Young Ian to walk out of the woods and warn me about the stones located nearby. I highly recommend reading all the books.

In this book, the younger generation has aged to late 20s and Clair and Jamie are in their 50s. Although that would seem sad for Clair and Jamie, the younger additions are just as thrilling as all Diana's characters. "Wee Ian" and "Furgus" take a larger part and I have fallen inlove yet again, with both of them. I always thought My 2 favorite authors could not be displaced, but one of them has, and Diana Galbadon has taken her place. Wonderful book. Less intimidating on Kindle, cause you can't see the stack of her thick books in front of you! : ) This fear of the thickness of her books, is a huge loss for those who don't tackle the series. 2nd half of the first book (a stand alone meteor of a book) arrives on Starz this April. "Outlander". Don't miss this series.

As usual Jamie and Claire's adventures were just as exciting as always! You never know what will happen next and I often feel a kinship with them in that is how my life has gone over the years too! LOL It is nice to know that relationships like their can be so fulfilling and longlasting (even if it is only in the mind of the author. smile) I am now reading the next installment with just as much enjoyment as always

I could do with a few less scenes of them making passionate love after trecking across the mountains, without having had a bath... and quite honestly, people who've been together for 25 years or so aren't and tired from the trail and stinky as well.... I just have a hard time believing that they'd really want to jump in the sack as much as they do. Many of the accomplishments seem quite far fetched. I started reading these books a few years ago and enjoyed the first few, but I'm kind of getting over it now.... It's just a little bit TOO far fetched as per all the tribulations they endure. Most folks would be dead having gone through half the stuff these characters have experienced.... but then again, it is fiction.

This is the best book since book 1. The others were good, but not like one #1 & #6. This one picked up the pace again after 4 & 5, which I thought were a bit slow. Those 2 should have been combined to one book. I don't typically read "Romance" novels, my opinion being that if you read one, you read them all. But this series is a bit different with the time travel theme added. That's why I picked up the first book years ago. Although, I didn't realize, at the time, that it was part of a series till the show started on TV....lol. I'm in the midst of reading #7. So far so good.

This is my favorite book of the series, at least so far. This book is packed with action. I usually prefer the parts of Gabaldon's books that focus on the family relationships and character development, but I loved the action scenes in this book. There are kidnappings, rapes, murders, thefts and of course battles and events leading up to the Revolutionary War. There is time travel. The book includes lots of Claire and Jamie sex as well as Roger and Brianna sex as usual, but it also has premarital sex, extramarital sex and incest. Roger and Brianna's characters become more fully developed and more interesting. I enjoyed the intertwining of history with the lives of the characters more than in previous books. Maybe that is because there were many events that I remember learning about in American history classes. I found it hard to put this book down. It almost caused me to miss an appointment yesterday.

This book is so full of action and interest it boggles the mind. Her history is so amazing, She covers everything. It's about America during the pre revolutionary war time. All that the people went through for us to become an independent nation. It makes you see, i the mind's eye, how very hard they had it and what they went through, and that there were people against it, fighting each other, some not wanting to be free of England. It brings back all the history lessons we had in school. Jamie has become and Indian Trader and a rebel. There is much unrest, tar and feathering, burning buildings, kidnapping people and putting them on ships back to England and the fighting between families and friends. She does an amazing job. I highly recommend this book and any of her books, she is great author. Germaine Rosenquist

Each book in this series actually gets better and better - most book series kind of lag at some point (mainly because of having to rehash earlier story lines for those reading the series out of chronological order) and you begin to wonder why you continue to read them, but these books continue to build on the original story (while lightly explaining earlier incidents) and just make you want to read more. The author flirts with some historically famous characters but only that - she doesn't attempt to invent or imply too much in terms of the personalities of these famous people, but simply touches upon them and weaves them into the story skillfully. I couldn't put these books down and couldn't wait to read the next one.

Well what can I say that hasn't already been said? Ms. Gabaldon's writing just gets better and better and I raced thru this book faster than any other. Got bogged down in The Fiery Cross and stopped reading for several months but finally picked it back up and haven't stopped reading since. Have decided to reread books 1-7 before tackling 8. Want to wait until 9 is on the horizon so as to not be left dangling for too long. It's so amazing to me that most multi-book series go downhill after the first coupla books but this series just gets more and more enthralling. Yes, there are some repeating themes but also a lot of "Whoa, I didn't see THAT coming!". Wonderful series, never want it to end.

This entire series is incredibly well defined. This book has everything...In reading this, I kept thinking "Good grief doesn't this family ever catch a break ?". Marvelous book. Guaranteed to keep you wondering, What next !! Enjoy

Another story of the Fraser's. I'm currently far ahead of the TV show. That's okay. I like knowing what will happen. This book continues the story of Claire and Jamie and their family. Life in the backwoods of a new land is hard but they make it sound doable. They travel, fight bad guys, hide, and recover. I really liked it and hope you will too. On to the next book. Happy Reading.

Another installment in the ongoing story of Claire & Jamie, A Breath of Snow and Ashes seamlessly carries the narrative forward through the years leading up to the American Revolution. This book includes all of the elements I have come to expect from the series: adventure, romance, murder, time travel and the fun of the accompanying anachronism, great storytelling, and a beautifully realized world for me to enter.

Last night I finished reading "A Breath of Snow and Ashes". I really, really loved this book as well as each of the 6 previous novels in the totally engrossing Outlander series. Diana Gabaldon brings her wonderful characters to life. You actually feel a connection to them...like old friends! In addition to Time Travel, History (fact & fiction), there's also mystery, adventure, love, compassion and humor. Everything!! I immediately started reading the 7th book in this amazing series, "An Echo in the Bone". I savor each and every line and I don't want the saga to end! I don't know why it took me so long to discover these books but now that I have read them, I'm buying them as gifts for friends. Diana Gabaldon is an amazingly talented author....real genius! I have preordered Book #8, Written in My Own Heart's Blood on my Kindle. Hopefully there will be a #9?

This is the 6th in the series, Outlander. It seems to present more exciting activity than earlier volumes, but I guess that this is a matter of perception. If you have enjoyed the earlier books in this series, I think you will really like this one. I hate to say much about the story as I do not like to give away what will happen. There is poisoning, murder, rape, return of characters from previous volumes, love stories, witches, science fiction, medicine, and lots of excitement. I happened to be reading a significant part on April 18, and that matched the day of the year with the book's story- I did some outside reading to confirm the history as accurate and it was. The book appears to give a lot of description of life as it was in the middle and late 1800's in America. O highly recommend it. I also suggest starting with Volume one of this series: Outlander.

I love this series! I stumbled onto Outlander by accident. How I don't recall, but it doesn't matter. I was hooked. You really need to read this in order. Thus is book #6. In this book you have time travel, war in the 1770's, sex, murder, and most of all Jamie and Claire! A true love story that grips your heart from book 1. How she struggles with right vs wrong. Where Jamie just does. Their daughter Brianna and her family are struggling as well with life in 1770's. What makes it great is the family bond. Jamie guides Roger through pre-America colonization. Brianna is a knock off the old block of Jamie and Claire. I love little Jem in this book. Nothing but all boy. I can't say enough about this book. They are absolutely amazing!

Best series books EVER written. I love to read, all the time. I own these digitally and on paper. I have read them 5 times and about to start my 6th time. I originally found the first four rubber banded together in a used book store. These rank with my beloved Little Women, The Defiance Texas Trilogy, Robinson Crusoe, The Boxcar Kids, and Game of Thrones. All of these have been read more than once, some more than that. The story is captivating and the author has a way of bringing you right into the story. Her descriptions and writing style are not fluffy embellishments. It is almost as though she live it, or maybe watched it lived and put it to paper for others.

I have now read this novel twice as I waited for the 8th book in the series to be released. This is my least favorite novel of what I've read so far. My biggest complaint is that the author uses the same plot device 4 times in the course of the same book. It's repetitive and not particularly imaginative. I still love the relationship between Jamie and Claire; I have real feeling for Young Ian. But 4 kidnappings in the same novel? If you're a fan of the series, you will probably enjoy this opus. And even though I have read the entire series now (so far), I don't recommend it for anyone who is not a true fan.

I wept with and for Young Ian today, when he took Bree to the gorge. Young Ian’s pain was raw and palpable. I also wept for the pain I had caused the man I turned from my life and our tribe. Diana I congratulate you on being able to take me on the journey of his balancing on the tight rope between two opposing strong beliefs. His not knowing which he had dishonoured to cause his dark night of the soul, that was causing him not to want to sleep, so as not to see/hear the soul of his daughter. Then to have offered a solution without betraying or bending to one or the other belief.. pure genius You continually balance the beliefs of the 18th Century with the 20th Century without degrading or mocking them. How apt to equate his indescribable fears as the “vitamins.” Vitamins, that Claire & Bree know and understand from the 20th Century, but which Jamie & Young Ian can only take on faith. It is such a pleasure and a privilege to be taken on the journey of your books. My dark night of my soul was as just a child, and I lost the ability to dream and thus imagination too. So fiction takes me into a world otherwise closed off to me and for the quality and richness of your fiction, I thank you.

A few weeks ago I stumbled across the Outlander series while searching for something to read. I read the reviews and decided to give the first book a try. I am now reading the latest book "An Echo in the Bone." I have really enjoyed this series and recommend it to anyone who likes great characters, history and a well written book. Granted, there are times when Ms. Gabaldon could have used a ruthless editor, but overall her written journey is exemplary. Some of the reviews that I've read complain that all of the books don't follow the first person perspective (Claire) of the first book, but I must say that had the series continued in that format we would all have stopped reading long ago. These books are popular because of her ability to weave a tale of many voices. I don't find it confusing, but interesting. I will admit to sometimes being frustrated when she switches from one person to another, but only because i want to stay in that particular persons story a bit longer. But it makes me continue to read so that I can find out what happened. Now I'm not even a quarter of the way though "Echo" yet but I'm already looking forward to the next book. If you decide to read the series, I hope you enjoy Jamie and Claire as much as I have, they have become good friends and while part of me wants to know the end of their story a larger part wants them to continue their adventures indefinitely. But then again, i can always revisit them at any time and to me that's the beauty of books. Good reading everyone!

I really liked this series in fact I loved it. Something about the books made me want to read more, more, more. I loved the fact that Claire was such a strong character, just as strong as Jamie but in a different way. The fact that it was written with history facts and that the historical figures were very human characters. Unfortunately, the last book leaves a lot of characters hanging. What happened to Ben Grey, Willie, Richardson issues, and many other questions. It's like it wasn't finished. I did enjoy the historical aspects of the book. The Sexy parts were O.K. but I didn't need that much detail for me to get that they were all in love. Sometimes made me think that this must be like the romance novels that I have always avoided. The adventure, bravery, and intelligence of the characters made up for that. I still loved the books.

Overall I give this book a thumbs up. Although it contains several exciting and anxiety-filled subplots that D.G. readers have become accustomed to, the focus of the story is not entirely on Jamie and Claire. Instead, the author devotes half the book to following other characters such as Jamie and Claire's daughter, Brianna, and her family, in addition to events leading up to the American Revolution. I am a huge fan of Jamie and Claire's exploits, so I tend to get bored in spots that contain descriptive dialog instead of plot twists. I also got confused a few times while reading the book because the conversation did not flow naturally... I had to reread a few parts to figure out who was saying what to whom - as if Diana was in a hurry when she wrote the book. Nonetheless, A Breath of Snow and Ashes is worth reading for those of you who wish to follow the continuing saga of Jamie and Claire.

I have read every single one of the series.....couldn't really pick out one from another as being better - they are all a fantastic continuation of a fantastic story. The only criticism I will offer (and if you, as I did...choose to just overlook it, no biggee. The story is STILL a great read) I think Diana has oversold what one woman can do....knowledge she can amass....and how much she could actually apply in an 18th century setting. Her heroine is a little on the super side. BUT - I like her so....I read on to see what else she can get in and out of. I recommend the series - it's a really good insight into that time period. The author has a depth of medical and botanical understanding that makes it interesting as hell.

Life goes on with Jamie and Claire. the books mode is everyday living with all the trouble that follows Jamie and Claire around. Bree and her family have added so much to Jamie and Claire's life that it will be hard to imagine that all of them will not be together forever. This books is not the grab and keep your attention like the first and second books but it is a saga and it is very enjoyable to read and follow this family through life. I can honestly say that I have totally enjoyed this series and am now on book 7. I know some reviewers seemed to think Diana just goes on and on but that is what a SERIES is. This one takes you from first encounter through to life and death. So keep on reading and enjoy for what it is.

The pre-American revolution comes to life in this book. The trails, accidents, joys and troubles are all written in a way that captures your attention. It is revealing to read Ms. Gabldon's version of life in the backwoods of South Carolina prior to 1776. History doesn't happen on a specific date but is unraveling day by day in the lives of otherwise ordinary people. Of course our hero and heroine are the steadfast heroes and watching their development in character and life is wonderful. There are the usual stories within the story in this book and other characters that we met in previous books come to life in this one. The usual sex, violence, and amazing events are plentiful. This book will hold your attention.

I love reading about Jamie and Clair's long term relationship. They have grown individually and as a couple. They work together to provide a home for their family. The history of the beginnings of the colonies is wonderful. Knowing how the war turns out you know what side you should be on but back then you had to choose based on what news you were seeing and hearing. I love the detail about every day life. I'm so glad I don't have to live like that. I like running water, indoor plumbing, and not having to cook from scratch all the time.

I need to preface this by saying that I dearly love all the books in this series, Ms. Gabaldon is probably my favorite in the world and I loved the time I spend reading this book. However....it is as if the author has been infected with a bit of Robert Jordan-itis. I think that this book would have been even better if half of it had been cut in editing. There is just way too much that is just fluff, just filler. One wonders if there was a bonus for making the book run over one thousand pages. Scenes that would have been better if written in three pages dragged on for two chapters and there was a great deal of material that was totally superfluous. Still, I loved it. It is Claire and Jamie, of course I loved it!

With the exception of the original Outlander book this was my favorite to date. This part of the saga was exciting and takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotion. I wish I could have given it a four and a half rating and tempted to give it a five but was annoyed at the excessive use of language that only a very highly educated person would know. I'm an avid reader and thus have a better than average grasp of vocabulary but even I was thrown more than once. The foreign languages I could understand as necessary but not the other. The politics sometimes got a little thick for me but I can see that was the times. Small nit picking complaints considering the plot of this saga. I loved this book and wonder sometimes if the authors ever read these reviews.

Great story!!! I am now on book #8 and are having trouble putting the book down. This whole story line is fascinating and I have been to Fort Ticonderoga with my kids so I remember some of the scenery as she describes it. I like the way Diana put some of "Claire's" thoughts together.along with her description of the scenery. Along the way I have been brought to tears in her way of telling "Jamie" how much she loves him. Then we come along to Brianna", who is like her father in many ways. This whole story line is fantastic and I will read her books any time!!!!!! Great Job Diana!!!!

I missed Gabaldon's books when they first appeared in the 90's. Rarely read fiction. Now, after seeing the superb production and acting in 'Outlander' on Starz I succumbed to the books and have learned to read til the wee hours as I can't put them down. Now, more than a year later, I have again read all 8 of her books plus the John Grey novellas. I can't think of a better escape from the complexities of real life these days ! No thanks are sufficient to Diana Gabaldon for her brilliantly written, fascinating historical epics.

I can't get enough of this story. Although there are a couple lulls in action, it continues to grip you through every chapter. Diana Gabaldon is a master story-teller, and I am awed by her talent. What I love most is, that despite being an avid reader, she uses words and language I've never heard and thus, is effectively expanding my vocabulary. This particular book is very near a favorite in terms of the story - the action, the adventure, the emotion, the challenges, the victories, whether in the form of payback or changing circumstances . . . It cleverly keeps you wondering what could possibly happen next.

What can I say? This is a fantastic series. I was concerned that it might be too long & I would get bored but so far it is anything but & I can't wait to read the next book when I finish one. I will be very sad to see the series end & I hope she doesn't kill everyone off as I have gotten very attached to all the main characters. I'm sure I will read these all again soon, there is so much in them. I find out later I missed or forgot some of the details that happened earlier, even tho the highlights are restated. I want to read the situation in full again. Each of these books is very long & I think it takes real talent to hold someone's interest thru all these thousands of pages. Great job!!!

I love the whole Outlander series! The books are very long but very detailed. They make you feel like you are back in time and realize what life was like in the 1700's, or 1900's depending on what side of the stones you're on. Throw in a few wars , murders and other traumas and you have a very compelling story! By the way, the showtime channel follows the book very closely.

If you've read the series leading up to this book, you already know what a fantastic storyteller Diana Gabaldon is. This book is a must-read in the continuing saga of Jamie and Claire Fraser and their family. While each of the books in the series has been written to stand alone, I can't imagine diving in part way through the series and not feeling a compulsion to start at the beginning. This book moves along a lot better than The Fiery Cross. It centers on Jamie and Claire more, and fleshes out Bree & Roger and their marriage more. At this point, you either love Diana Gabaldon's writing, or you don't. You realize she has a big story to tell, and it's going to take several books to tell it. That's fine with me, because she gets better and better with each new book.

The saga continues with all the passion, wonder, excitement of the first five ! I'm reading the entire eight book set for the second time, and am just as enveloped in the happenings as the first time! Mrs. Gabaldon has a wonderful way with words and imagination, that takes my soul into the eighteenth century, and causes the characters in the series to feel as if I know them personally. I actually miss their company, when I am not actively reading about their adventures! I'm anxiously awaiting the completion oh book nine, and wonder how Diana can allow this wonderful story to actually end. I am hoping that she might be able to find it possible to continue on with a number 10?!?!?!

Very well written and especially interesting for American revolution buffs. Full of intrigues and surprises.

The book arrived in great condition! No major issues with pages or anything. Also, what a great read. Gotta love Diana's Outlander world! Can't wait for this season of the show to come out!!

A Breath of Snow and Ashes is one of my top 2 books of the series so far (I also really enjoyed book 2). I was surprised at many of the events at the end and found myself wanting more...and immediately started book 7. In most of the books there were several plot lines that I found overly formulaic, too much "mistaken identity" type ploys. Not so much in this book, which was a refreshing change. the story got a little long through the middle and stories of many characters seemed to wrap up in unexpected ways (some not true to the character as developed thus far), but by the end I was really into the story and excited to see what happens next.

As I mentioned before, the Outlander series by D. Gabaldon is a rare collection of novels that educates, entertains, and waxes philosophical between action sequences. The author juggles characters and thematic elements too numerous to mention. Jamie and Claire Fraser, Roger and Brianna MacKenzie, Ian and Jenny Murray, Ian Jr., John Randall, Lord John Gray and a host of others will be remembered long after the books are completed. Not to mention the languages! And the allusions to past writers: Shakespeare, Dickens, Dumas, T.S. Eliot, Y.B. Yeats,the Bible, et.al. could keep us re-reading these memorable authors! I'd just like to know when the next one--Written in my Heart's Blood, will be released. I am now in a slump because most other books pale in comparison.

Let’s face it: if you’ve made it this far in the series, there’s no way you’re not going to read this book. That said, it is less emotionally engaging than the others, in my opinion, as I believe it is much more a book that sets future plot paths and points than brings us plot progression and resolution. That said, as always, romantically enjoyable, wonderfully adventurous, and, since we’re all virtual family with this series’ characters, we can’t help but be swooned and swayed by their exploits.

First, let me say that I adore the Outlander series as a whole. For books 1-4, I didn't want to put them down, and I couldn't wait to have a moment alone to start reading again. Even with a newborn, I was willing to forego precious moments of sleep just to get a few more pages in. By The Fiery Cross, things started to slow down. I think a lot of it had to do with the location. Honestly, after all of the adventures in Scotland, French Court, the Islands, and treks across the ocean, the aspect of them settling down in Colonial America was, well, a little boring. I had hoped that the next book would pick up, and see them moving around a bit. Not the case with this installment. Listen, I get it- this part of Jamie and Claire's life journey is important, and they can't ALWAYS be trekking around on adventures. They had to settle down sometime, and this was the time for that to happen. So, yes, the nature of settling down is a bit boring, and that's part of why I wasn't as in love with this book. Also, this location lacks the glamour and intrigue of the settings of the other books- and that's another reason why this was slower-paced. But let's be honest- the vast majority of this very lengthy book had absolutely nothing to do with the continuing saga of Jamie and Claire. It was page after page of detailed accounts of how to make candles, operate on piles using crude instruments and whiskey, how to grow, store and prepare food without modern luxuries such as refrigeration, etc... That being said, it was extremely well written, as are all of Diana Gabaldon's books. She's the only author in the world who can make inflamed hemorrhoids sound eloquent and lovely. But I really wanted to read about Jamie and Claire, and see the progression of the their story. There was some of that, of course, but too much of the descriptive aspect of their life and surroundings. To sum up, this book should have been entitled "Ye Old Manual To Surviving and Thriving in the Southern Backwoods of 18th Century Colonial America." Had it been named thusly, at least I would have known what to expect. Whatever- I'm still extremely excited for the next installment. Looks like we're in for a lot of travel and adventure, a la books 1-4. Can't wait!

Diana's books are always great a little bit wordy in parts but I speed read thru some of it but I can't get enough of Jamie and Claire! I've read almost all of her books and actually I'm getting nervous knowing her next book will take awhile but I can always reread some of the others over again. I started reading the books after I watched the Starz series, which I enjoyed very much although after reading the books I felt some of the things I loved in the book were left out of the series which mostly had to do with Jamie and Claire but books have a lot more space lol. I would recommend her books in the outlander series too anyone who loves a good romance, history, great characters and a author with a lot of imagination and a great sense of humor who makes her words come to life.

This series consistently satisfies me. I'm currently on An Echo In The Bone and I'm dreading being so near the end of it. Each book brings in a new POV in how the story is told, and I'm always resistant to this change at first because I don't like that it will take away a piece of the Claire&Jamie pie. But the new POV's just add further depth to the already very complex and well-rounded storyline and they never disappoint. As always, Gabaldon's descriptors of life during this time period are darkly humorous and startlingly realistic and Claire's inner dialogue and expressions continue to be insightful and hilarious.

If you're a Gabaldon fan, you won't want to miss this one. I have read the first 5 multiple times and finally got around to purchasing the rest. I like the way she develops the characters in their various relationships as time passes--they're still the people you remember and love from the previous novels, but they have matured in their thinking and behavior as people do in real life--with ethics and morals intact. This one continues to explore what Claire, Roger and Brianna already know: the Revolution is coming and how will they contribute to the well-being of the people they love who don't have that special knowledge.

This book has a lot happening as shown by the large number of pages. On one hand, the action makes it much better than Fiery Cross because there is a lot the characters go through (less time spend on useless description), on the other hand the type of action and conflict is a bit redundant as it is the same as happens in the other books. An alternate title for this book could have been "Taken" or "Kidnapped" to several characters. Once again, there's rape of a major character. Storylines with many secondary characters continue; one major villain pops up several times but then the storyline on that is finally finished. The basic historical backdrop is interesting as we edge into the beginning of the revolutionary war...including one major conflict. As always Gabaldon does an amazing job with character development, description, and making you feel like you are "there" for what is happening. Those are the reasons I keep reading the series and my love for Jamie and Claire continues. The last chapter and the epilogues, though, really make this book worth reading if you can make it to the end! Very emotional and yet emotionally rewarding to read.

Book 6 in the Outlander series brought me back to book 3 with its continuous plot twists and atrocities faced by the heroines in this saga. Diana Galbadon holds nothing back, and once again forces her characters to live through the ferocity of the times. A Breath of Snow and Ashes forces the men of Fraser's Ridge to deal with the aftermath of numerous wrongs done to their women and provides the reader much insight into the depth of their feelings for their loved ones. A nice twist on the usual woman supporting her man plots. This book brings to surface the multifacetedness of every character still surviving the series. Great read!!

This series of books has become an essential element of my daily activities, I have the combination kindle book and audio app that allows reading the book or switching to the audio for hands free listening. I love this series and I listen to it over and over, I find that after a few days, I just miss Jamie and Claire and want to hear the book while I drive to do my errands or drift off to sleep at night. There is a magic comfort in the words that form a chain around my heart and make me feel secure in love and acceptance. I love this couple (and the other characters), but Jamie and Claire are amazing!. I love all of the books in this series!

Well, for my money, this series keeps getting better. I don't think you would want to dive in at book 6 without reading the earlier tomes, but this is the volume where the history gets really interesting to me. Jamie and Claire, our heroes, are now stuck at the beginning of the Revolutionary War with friends and family on both sides of the conflict. They aren't as young as they used to be, but their mature love story still inspires. If you've not read any of this series, be aware that it defies categorization in any particular genre; it is part science fiction/fantasy, part romance, part historical fiction, with hefty bits of drama, adventure, and humor thrown in.

I ordered the hardback version of A Breath of Snow and Ashes to replace the paperback edition which I had purchased years ago. I am rereading the Outlander series. Diana Gabaldon continues the saga of Jamie and Claire in the eighteenth century American colonies fight for independence. Some family members are separated from Jamie and Claire. The book continues with historic, medical, and cultural details that Dr. Gabaldon's books are known for. Many characters are introduced and many familiar characters are further developed. This is the sixth in the Outlander series and I would recommend starting with book #1 Outlander. The 8th book is due out in June and I have pre-ordered it from Amazon.

I could not put this book down, although, I cannot put down any of Gabaldon's books. I watch the show and love it, but I really enjoy all the extra details you get with the books. Her descriptions are so vivid I can imagine the scenes without difficulty and read way late into the night and half of Saturdays and Sundays. If you are a fan, do not miss out on this book by waiting for the show to catch up.

This book is part of a series and cannot or should not be separated out from the other books of which it is a part. The entire series is so well written. The story line is engaging and the characters are compelling. I have enjoyed the Outlander books because they are complex and yet maintain a focused and intimate perspective of the people who inhabit the story. Historical and psychological accuracies are combined with fantastical elements which do not diminish but enhance the unfolding story of the lives of people you come to love. I recommend this book and the entire series wholeheartedly.

I'm on book 7. Since it's a continuum, I can't separate it from the rest of the series. I just can't stop reading this series and will be very disappointed at the conclusion of book 8. Suspending logic for the time travel parts is so minor compared to the uber-satisfying historical novel side. The author has so thoroughly researched the historical, medical, biological/botanical and psychological aspects of her tales that I'm no longer on guard for gross mistakes that would immediately cause me to lose respect. I'm no literary critic but I know what I like, and this author's work does it for me.

Another great book in the Outlander series, though I will say these women get kidnapped an awful lot. That's okay, it adds to the story and in many cases helps to tie up the loose ends...you know how you meet a character briefly and you just know they will be coming back around again? One of the great things about these books are the twists and turns they take, whoever thought Jocosta would... and what about Jamie and the girl and whoever thought sweet Fergus would do THAT? Just when you've gotten ho-hum with happenings on the Ridge and I will admit that sometimes the detail start to slow the story down, someone knocks on the door and here we go! I have loved this series (yes, I have hidden my kindle under the couch to keep people from knowing how much time I spend reading the books) and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys history, adventure and just enough naughtiness to keep it fun. On to "An Echo in the Bone," which I will unfortunately finish before the next book is published. Ahh, well, I can always start Over from the beginning while I wait...

Loved it, as usual! Diana Gabaldon delights in breaking all the rules of the various genres she writes in for this series. Where else do you get a romance novel where the woman is older than the man, experienced sexually, cheating on her husband (albeit, in a different time period), and becomes a bigamist by marrying a deliciously handsome younger man whom she scarcely knows right at the beginning of the novel, and the man is a virgin! The main characters all eventually get raped violently and suffer truly believable traumatic stress, and one of the best characters is a gay soldier. And the Beardsley family - a tiny spitfire of a girl marries two brothers (twins) at the same time, and I'm in Book 7 and they're still living happily together with their kids. I mean, this is just too good! I could go on and on - It's fun, it's smart, it's a rollicking good ride.

I agree with all of the reviews who say this does not live up to the excitement of her earlier books. Yet we are all still addicted! I have read them all and I would describe this chapter in the saga as "Life on the Ridge" for Claire and Jamie and the family. A few surprises, lots of different plots and maybe even a bit disjointed and some of it even a snooze but you can page forward. But with the Outlander series coming out this summer on Starz everybody can get a glimpse of Gabaldon's creation. My favorites in the series are the first 3 books - Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber and Voyager. Read those if you have not and then proceed through the rest if you are so inclined.

I had to buy this book as I was reading through the series (for the third time over the years) and found I was missing this book (which I later found). I find paperbacks easier to read and carry around than full-sized hardbacks. I bought the first book in this series thinking it was a fantasy novel and adored it, only to discover it is actually classed as a romance (which I normally avoid!). I have read through all 7, I believe it is, novels in this series, and am eagerly awaiting the newest novel, due out in June. I send my first set to my mother to read and she adored them, too. After I sent them to her I found I NEEDED to read them again and had to buy the set again, but it was worth the cost.

Of all of the books in the series, this is may favorite! I just re-read this only for the 2nd time and there was so much small detail that I'd forgotten so in some sense it was like reading it for the first time with a touch of memory thrown in. It is full of so much tenderness and toughness. I don't know how Diana manages to add even more depth to her characters but she does and the more the better. I am now reading #7 for the second time and finally I will be able to read "Written in my own Heart's Blood". I'm sure I will re-read the last 4 books again next year since I've read the first 4 easily 4 or 5 times now and know them well. Don't miss this series!

Have enjoyed reading again. this is book 6 of quite a few that I've read. it took me awhile to get through this book I'm not sure why I took me about a little over a month normally doesn't take that long I look forward to completing the set. in all these books I'm enjoying the history reflections how they coincide with American Revolution cuz I've looked at the dates and the places that they mentioned in the books to places in real life and it's kind of interesting. the book I'm reading now is the next one in the series book 7 and actually William is kind of dull and I just kind of gloss over it but overall I've enjoyed reading these

Diana Gabaldon is one of my most favorite authors. She does not disappoint in this book. She continues to weave a story with two of the strongest characters I've ever read while adding more people for us to fall in love with. The way she writes makes it easy to fall into her stories and feel as if I'm immersed in that time and place that the characters live. Breath of Snow and Ashes will have you falling in love with more characters and hating others and leave you desperately ordering the next book in the series. So, might as well do that now because you will love this book and the entire series starting with Outlander.

this book was non-stop mayhem. you get sex scandals, abductions, murder, treason, treachery and so much more. Jamie remains steadfast and loyal to a fault. Claire is still strong willed and indignant to injustice. they are still trying to survive a chaotic time and fight for what they believe in. Roger finds his calling. bree is using her 20th century know how to modernize 18th century life. the number of "bad guys"increases substantially. I was biting my nails through the whole book. they constantly live on the edge of a knife. one slip and all will be lost. one thing you can count on is Jamie coming to the rescue. he is my hero. I highly recommend this series.

Yet again, Jamie & Claire find their lives topsy turvy. Many occurrences I did not see coming! As with the previous books, this one is a pleasant journey to another time. Worth your time!

I am not a novel reader generally; however I became hooked on Outlander on Starz. Not being of the mind to wait 6 months to find out what happens next I chose to purchase the series of books to read. Diana Cabaldon is a fantastic writer. Her language, descriptive details, and history intertwined in this series has me hooked as a fan. Although a 1450 page book I did read this as quickly as the others in the series. I am now halfway through this book, and think of the characters as I would friends or family at this juncture. I can see why her books have been on the NY Times Best Sellers list!! Very enjoyable reading!!

This was my favorite book in this series. It's a nonstop action adventure. It's funny and warm and will give you the feels, ohhhh the feels. Unlike Book 5, which was slow slowww, the plot rattles along at a quick pace (important for a 1400 page book), and every time our heroes are out of the frying pan they are tossed unceremoniously back into the fire. The chapter titled "Abduction" was A+ ah-maz-ing. After you've read 6 of these books, the characters have been so well fleshed out that you actually feel like you know (and love) them. Their misfortunes effect you on a gut level, which makes for some pretty damn good reading. *slow clap*

Diana Gabaldon does it again! In a HUGE story, which closes several story arcs that have been woven through the last few books, and opens a couple of new arcs that promise an uncertain future for beloved characters that leaves the reader breathless. Incredible detail, worthwhile reading from a historical perspective, science fiction, or romance. Her ability to put you in a time of great change and upheaval and make you FEEL as people alive then felt is my very favorite aspect of her writing.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Diana Gabaldon "Outlander" series of which this is the seventh book. I'm re-reading them in order as I patiently wait for the eighth book to be published. Once you start reading these books (and especially if you think about time travel) you should enjoy them too. The research aspect is wonderful as I've checked a few things that were in the first book, Outlander as it is woven around the Jacobite Rebellion and the details were correct. I would recommend this series if books to anyone who is interested in history, good fiction and enjoys reading. My preference is still a good book, but inline of carrying a stack of books on vacation it is convenient to put them on an iPad, a Kindle or whatever device you have. An extra plug for Amazon, if you have an iPad, Amazon has an app labelled Kindle for iPad and it is easy to download and then when you are ready to download something to your iPad it is really easy. I give this A thumbs up rating. The books in order are: .

I've read all the 8 books and enjoyed every one of them. All the characters are well defined, the times and places are vivid in my mind. I've watched the first and second season on DVD and they follow the books accurately. I will never forget The Outlander book series. I would absolutely recommend these books. It's a real commitment but well worth it.

Previous books were attention getting moved steadily. I thoroughly enjoy them. This one is not the author's best effort, thus far. However, because it is midway through the series, I feel it must play a part to the overall story; therefore, I will get through it and hope the next one is better Don't understand why it was not connected with Whispersync as the others.

The Outlander series of books (and the tv show on STARZ) are addictive. Once you start, you will be drawn in to the lives and loves of Claire, Jaimie and their assorted friends and family. If you asked me before I “discovered” these books, I’d tell you that I don’t read books. Certainly not romance novels or time travel stories. But I LOVE THESE CHARACTERS! I cannot stop reading and re-reading these books.

Every word had me hanging on and drawing me in. Diana is able to paint pictures in my head so that I can imagine I am there watching what is happening. The storyline is fascinating and makes me want more.