Book Review: Written in My Own Hearts Blood

Diana Gabaldons new book continues the saga of Claire Randall.

By Catherine Groves

In what we now know as a classic novel, Diana Gabaldons Outlander tells the story of Claire Randall. Claire, an English ex-combat nurse, one day walks through a stone circle while in the Scottish Highlands in 1946 and disappears...into 1743. The story is detailed in seven bestselling novels, and continues now with the eighth release in the series, Written in My Own Hearts Blood ending a four-year wait for loyal fans.

The continuation of this saga begins in the summer of 1778. The city of Philadelphia is watching the retreat of the British army, and George Washingtons troops are in pursuit. Thinking that her husband, Jamie, had drowned on an ocean crossing, Claire has remarried her husbands best friend. Jamie returns from the watery grave to learn of his best friends actions and is determined to extract vengeance on a man he truly loved as a heartfelt friend. During this time, we learn that Jamies illegitimate son has just discovered the identity of his real father. Adding to the drama is Jamies nephew, Ian, who is facing his own complex issues. 

Although their century is turned upside down, Claire and Jamie are quietly thankful that their daughter, Brianna, along with her precious family, has been safely returned to 20th Century Scotland. Unknown to them, their grandson, Jem, has been kidnapped. Briannas husband, Roger, volunteers to go through the stones again to try to find their son. With Roger out of the picture, we learn that the true target of the kidnappers is Brianna, and what they truly covet are her family secrets. The kidnappers never left Scotland.

A continuing story that most likely will have readers inquiring when book nine will be in print, Written in My Own Hearts Blood will not disappoint loyal readers.

Written in My Own Hearts Blood can be purchased at most major bookstores and in e-Reader versions for Kindle and Nook.