tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post4678184029271366860..comments2024-03-27T16:39:57.485-04:00Comments on My OUTLANDER Purgatory: MOP Outlander Mentor CONTEST! Purgatory Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04206226666250028550noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-57320205181678852542013-11-04T18:07:40.040-05:002013-11-04T18:07:40.040-05:00After a co-worker suggested the series to me while...After a co-worker suggested the series to me while recovering from a hangover from another series, I still didn't see the appeal. Duh, I know... But, months later I saw a "pin" on Pinterest that Gerard Butler was to play Jamie Fraser in the movie (ha-ha...) and I called her right then and there to bring me the book. Well, after reading for a while and the initial obsession frenzied, I searched the internet for all things, Outlander. That's when I came across MOP! Of course, Carol, you didn't blog too much about the first book, however, it was enough to keep me thoroughly entertained. And then, of course, you were generously verbose with every other step of Claire and Jamie's story along the way.<br />Lets just say that my deep, deep love for Diana's masterpieces parallels my love and respect for you, Carol, and Tracy. Your blog "mentored" ME along the way. You constantly provided a lot of laughter, and different points of view (I didn't always agree) along the way. I lived for them. As I was thrust through the rabbit hole of the Outlander world, MOP, I felt, went with me. I still haven't recovered; as you see, I am on this website 3-4 times a week! <br />I know I missed the deadline for the Audible thing; I don't care. Back in 2011 I threw you and Tracy a gushing email about what a big fan I am of the blog, but I wanted to post this THANK YOU publicly. Hats off to you both!<br /><br />PS- I've personally mentored a handful of friends since. I also plan to buy 2-4 copies of Outlander paperbacks and promote them through work (I work at a Catholic HS) as I know it will reach a few more just in time for the series. That way I can throw a big ol' viewing party. Woo-hoo!<br /><br />PSS- Also, my goal is to have my husband read, at least, Outlander. I will NOT be having to explain things to him while watching the series. I refuse!JamieGirlhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13826309413747754411noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-48751310955290311332013-11-03T21:27:52.726-05:002013-11-03T21:27:52.726-05:00My mom is my Outlander Mentor. I can't rememb...My mom is my Outlander Mentor. I can't remember my exact age when she first gave me Outlander to read, but I know that I was a teenager and was completely shocked that my MOTHER had given me this book to read! Of course I was hooked right away and we have spent the last 15+ years reading and discussing and re-reading and re-discussing the series. This past February I was diagnosed with breast cancer and my mom made me a beautiful necklace to wear to chemo treatments that says "dinna fash," a tribute to a favorite line in our shared obsession as well as a reminder to me that everything was going to be okay (and it is - I'm cancer-free now!). Tara Kerr daktryl@yahoo.comAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-39249958977306466752013-11-03T19:55:58.353-05:002013-11-03T19:55:58.353-05:00I actually didn't have a mentor. I'm an av...I actually didn't have a mentor. I'm an avid reader, and love many different genres of books. I passed by the books many times at my local bookstore and would always pick up Outlander, read the back, and put it back on the shelf and try something else. I had recently had a miscarriage and needed to have another surgery to correct a defect in my uterus when I found myself looking for something big to read during my recovery. I finally picked up the big blue book thinking it looked hefty enough to last while I was healing. I started Outlander the day after surgery when I wad finally awake from the drugs. I made it 34 pages in. Demanded my husband go back and buy the other book right then. At the time, A Breath of Snow and Ashes had just came out, and needless to say I was one very happy camper. These books became my medicine, and helped me through a very rough time in my life. I know plan my vacation time around the book releases. Lord Johns as well. My greatest pleasure is to talk "Outlander" with my mother and sister-inlaw who I converted over. So in this story I'm the mentor. Read the books, join the clan.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11015224092252570015noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-58562578284631606362013-11-03T19:10:40.189-05:002013-11-03T19:10:40.189-05:00When Joanna and I decided to become roommates I kn...When Joanna and I decided to become roommates I knew I was set because she had enough books that I wouldn’t need to go to the library ever again. I wasn’t sure if we’d get along but knowing I’d have one less traffic-filled stopped equaled a win-win for me. Luckily, we became really close and got along swimmingly with all of our conversations—always fueled by Mexican and brownies—eventually ending up with books. <br /><br />Being a magpie, I naturally gravitated to the BRIGHT, BIG books on a shelf in Jo’s room. Jo would continually say, “You know they’re good, just a little different.” She was trying to feel me out. Considering we met at a Bible study she wasn’t quite sure what my standards or limits were with books. She, like all good future book mentors, needed to test my mettle. Could I handle this?! Was I worthy of Jamie? Was I going to morph into Mother Teresa? She wrestled with lots of difficult decisions. I mean, at that point we had signed a lease to live together for a year. If I failed she was stuck living with me. A dumbass who didn’t like Outlander. (DWDLO) After a few more questions she finally knelt on one knee, like a Crusader handing over a holy relic, and passed the books over. So I read and read and read. Not realizing that I had a pending DWDLO status hanging over my head I never really told Jo what I was thinking till I got to THE SCENE. The jail scene. The Blackjack Randall Scene. And, holy hell, I exploded. And that was it. I was done for. I swear I’m not exaggerating when I say about 99% of our conversations from there on out somehow connected to Outlander: Our jobs as teachers=Claire teaching Jamie the finer points of…emh (Blush! Giggles! Sigh!). Bad weather=SCOTLAND (At least there are kilts). Studying abroad in Ireland=correct pronunciation of Laoghaire (smacks forehead). Dealing with co-workers=uncanny resemblances between certain coworkers and various and sundry characters (Surely we can punch them…). Plight of being single=Jamie became our Standard By Which All Men Will Be Measured Against (Good luck with that). Things we wanted in a man=Jamie’s hands (my GAH!). Infuriating family members=Jenny (Good Grief Woman). But, above all else, while I’m so appreciative that Jo introduced me to the wonders of Outlander, I (and cue the corn) treasure the deep friendship that came out of it. And even though we live states away from each other now we still send frequent texts about books, and now the TV show. We’re already trying to figure out the logistics for a cross-country premiere date…. standing stones anyone? <br />Sarahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09807480428045826281noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-82472111897554511752013-11-03T18:35:21.718-05:002013-11-03T18:35:21.718-05:00My Outlander mentor is the poor, misguided sap who...My Outlander mentor is the poor, misguided sap who put an unread, perfect paperback copy of Outlander out on a garage sale table! Who would do that? I have a lot of cherished "garage sale finds" but this one was life changing. Easily the best 50 cents I ever spent although my family would beg to differ. When I finished I ran to google "Diana Gabaldon" to find some other books of her to read. You can't imagine my joy to discover that there was an entire series (OK, yes you can)!! Everything was put on hold as I devoured the books. Dinners, laundry, work, personal life....all had to be put on hold. My family has endured my babbling on and on. They know Jamie and Claire almost as well as we do. So I wish to personally thank my dim-witted, get a clue, garage sale mentor. If you only had read a couple pages. If you only knew. sarah@matthewsgroup.orgAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-9732817366570358992013-11-03T14:50:56.372-05:002013-11-03T14:50:56.372-05:00My name is Diane. I am 69 years old. I have not ...My name is Diane. I am 69 years old. I have not read a historical novel in 40 years and I never read " Science Fiction". My 31 year old niece told me about her passion for the Outlander Series. To have something to share with her I started the first book.<br /><br />Well, I am so hooked. She walks me through much of what I am about to read due to the fact that I get fearful for characters I love. I love that she also whets my appetite for what is down the road without giving away big surprises. through Lecy, I have entered a new time, with new people, most of whom feel like family. Without her I would never have been able to read this amazing story. I can't wait for the next book.<br /><br />Thank you,<br />Diane Leonard<br />dianefromoh@comcast.netAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-38812526667717390292013-11-03T08:39:33.014-05:002013-11-03T08:39:33.014-05:00*diagnosed in 2008 not 2006, typo sorry!*diagnosed in 2008 not 2006, typo sorry!Angela Lynn Emondhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05086714556827838608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-39616744259161899962013-11-03T08:21:07.697-05:002013-11-03T08:21:07.697-05:00The year was 2002 and I was 21 years old, enrolled...The year was 2002 and I was 21 years old, enrolled in a math class at Central Michigan University with my acquaintance Mary. We were seated at the the same table and quickly discovered that we were both much more interested in literature than mathematics.<br /><br />In hushed tones and scribbled writing Mary began to share with me bits of the story of her favorite book: Outlander. I was skeptical at first but one day she loaned me her copies of the first two books and I was instantly addicted. Throughout the twists and turns of the plot Mary answered questions but never would hint at what was to come.<br /><br />Over the course of the semester we spent lots of time together and our friendship deepened, Along the way, we both recruited more people to read along with us, and created our own little Outlander sisterhood. Although to date, Mary has brought in many more readers than I ever could. I call her an Outlander Ambassador.<br /><br />One day my roommate Sam and I were sharing the same copy of Dragonfly in Amber and she had read ahead of me then left for class. When she returned I had reached the point where it was revealed Jamie had married Loaghaire. As soon as she opened the door I threw the book at the wall, very near her head, and screamed "How could he?!" She immediately knew what I was talking about, and was just as upset as I had been, and we were loudly discussing our shock and disgust, when our third roommate threw up her hands and declared she was never going to read a series that had gotten such a hold on us. Her loss!<br /><br />The years passed and Mary, Sam, and I remained the closest of friends breathlessly awaiting each new book and serving as each other's bridesmaids as we all married, graduated, and grew into real adults.<br /><br />In 2006, something no one expected occurred, and I was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma. My disease and the chemo used to cure it left me so ill that for months all I had the strength to do was to read. I tried to enjoy new material, but just came back to the Outlander books. Their familiarity comforted me and the stories still had the power to transport me away from my day to day life, which at that point was incredibly dismal. The books and the characters were there for me as much ans Sam and Mary were, supporting me as I faced a life threatening illness. When so much had been torn away from me, I was relieved to lose myself in the world of Claire and Jamie. I was thankful to Mary for introducing me to them all those years ago. <br /><br />Today I am healthy and have been cancer free for almost five years. Sam has moved to South Carolina and Mary and I are still in Michigan although a few hours apart. We have always stayed in touch and visited each other whenever possible. These days, with the excitement of the television series, our texts and calls are frequent and thrilling. We are delighting in discussing each casting decision and ensuring that all of us see each photo and video leaked from the production. In many ways it has been just as wonderful and joyous as reading the series together for the first time. As you girls at MOP clearly know, everything is better when you get to share it with your friends. :)<br />Angela EmondAngela Lynn Emondhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05086714556827838608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-70866487336456837522013-11-03T00:07:30.944-04:002013-11-03T00:07:30.944-04:00I discovered Outlander on my own just this past Ju...I discovered Outlander on my own just this past June. When I finished, I was dumbfounded that none of my friends had read this incredible book. Enter my great friend/Outlander mentor/co-conspirator, Sue Anne Bell. I told Sue Anne she needed to read this book. And awesome friend that she is, she didn't question me and hauled all 672 pages (ok, not 100% on that- its not in front of me right now) on a trip to Prague. Well we all know how this story ends up- she finished Outlander on the trip over and bought the digital version of DiA for while she was there. And that's when the mentor/co-conspirator relationship was born. As our husbands joke, Outlander took our friendship to the next level. I'll never forget how in July I was on vacation with my kids and reading DiA. I would get up early in the morning to read (who does that on vacation?! Oh wait, anyone reading Outlander) and text or email Sue Anne (in Prague) about where we were, what was happening. Like, who cares about vacation with our families. We were reading Dragonfly in Amber and Claire just got with the king of France!!! <br />Since then we have gone back and forth- one of us may be reading a little ahead of the other but we literally can't stop talking about what's happening. I have sent some very long involved emails with any number of questions/discussion points to her, and she has done the same to me. We'll meet up for drinks and literally talk about the books nonstop for three hrs straight. Our husbands are embarrassed for us that we follow Herself and Sam Heughan twitter. (Among many others...) They tease us that we read a page, text about it, read a page, text. Lol. (At times this is not far from the truth. Ha!) It's gotten where if either of us had a bad day, one of us will text 'but I love Jamie'. Like that makes every thing right with the world (I mean, it does, right?). <br />Think about something that you love to do - isn't it better to share that experience with a friend? Sue Anne is the only person I can have this obsession with and not feel ridiculous about it. She is equally obsessed and tries to get anyone who has a pulse to read this series. We are currently about half way through ABOSAA. (We are already DREADING the day we finish Echo! #willfeelbereft) We both have three small kids, busy lives, etc but have made it our mission to keep reading. (keep obsessing?) I think experiencing these audio books would be incredible- I would love to give my Outlander mentor that gift. Thanks My Outlander Purgatory! :)<br />Tonja Fox Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16905116078020053285noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-9571652207536102162013-11-02T20:09:10.432-04:002013-11-02T20:09:10.432-04:00I came to the world of Outlander on my own several...I came to the world of Outlander on my own several years ago and have passed on the world of Jamie and Claire to my mom, sisters, mother-in-law and countless other family members, friends and coworkers. I have purchased books in the series more times than I can count and have passed them on to others held together only with a prayer and rubber bands! This wonderful series has helped me get through a divorce, a major move, career change and some serious health issues. I excited beyond belief that the series is coming to life! I have finally given the books to my daughters and told them it's time to meet Jamie! Can one be a mentor to themselves? Who knows? Love the books and share with anyone who will listen! Keep up the good work ladies! Found the website this summer and pass the word about it to all that I recommend the books too!MGibsonhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14769860254570738731noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-59099435056902161072013-11-02T19:41:28.022-04:002013-11-02T19:41:28.022-04:00Ode to my Outlander Mentor
I have a daughter name...Ode to my Outlander Mentor<br /><br />I have a daughter named Elise, <br />so I read the Outlander series just to keep peace.<br /><br />By page 35 I said "Are you nuts"?<br />By page 52 Claire became such a klutz.<br />She fell through the stones and then the magic began,<br />for that's when she met Jaime, an iconic man.<br /><br />I couldn't read fast enough,"Elise help me please!",<br />and so she kept me going with a tidbit or tease.<br /><br />Elise told me of Jaime and Claire and their escapades <br />and she told me of Black Jack, that cold blooded knave,<br />Brianna, Roger, Ian and Jenny, those wonderful characters<br />of whom there are so many.<br /><br />Elise kept me sane and helped me through book 7,<br />Book 8 will be out soon, my idea of heaven.<br /><br />Elise is my daughter and my Outlander Mentor,<br />I could not have read all of the stories without her.<br /><br />I appreciate all of her help, and the fact that she was kind,<br />because I'm going to read them again for the THIRD time.<br /><br />My mentor will be there, and these stories we will share<br />through the joys, fears and laughter for now and ever after.<br /><br />I love you Elise.<br />Mom<br /><br />Patsfromohio@gmail.com<br /><br /><br />Patricia Kleinsmithnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-61511021552212093072013-11-02T16:49:22.646-04:002013-11-02T16:49:22.646-04:00My Outlander mentor is my coworker Charlene Zawask...My Outlander mentor is my coworker Charlene Zawaski. I was just beginning the series and she has guided me through all the ups and downs. The Oh My Gosh I am at the part where…..and she would say “Just wait it gets better!” Well it has and we have had lunchtime discussions and updates on the Starz series, discussions of how are they going to do that???? I have even been stayed up on many of occasion trying to get through a chapter or finish the book so I could start the next one. I am currently starting the Fiery Cross as my next read and she keeps cheering me on! Thanks Charlene! We can both be in the doghouse together reading our 1000+ page books at night , nose in book = happy camper !Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08166986797115886980noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-61642276379520577062013-11-02T10:02:41.105-04:002013-11-02T10:02:41.105-04:00Kathy Webb is my mentor. She introduced me to Jam...Kathy Webb is my mentor. She introduced me to Jamie and Claire after my motorcycle accident 7 years ago. Physical Therapy was more tolerable as I looked forward to reading the Outlander series when hot or cold compresses gave me time to read. Then after breast cancer 5 years ago, I once again had the comfort of Jamie and Claire to get me through chemo and recovery. Hip surgery last year once again had me reading all of the Lord John series. I own all of the books in hardback and as ebooks. I reread all books before the next book is released - guess I better get started on Outlander.Phyllis Ruedingernoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-19188470686968472962013-11-01T23:24:20.421-04:002013-11-01T23:24:20.421-04:00My mom is my Outlander Mentor. At first she was h...My mom is my Outlander Mentor. At first she was hesitant to tell me about the series, because "There is sex in it." While I am 50 years old, I guess I will always be her little girl. Once over that hurdle, I began reading Outlander, and was hooked. My mom and I shared many conversations about the historical events, characters and situations. We even talked about the love scenes! It was kind of kinky that we both lusted after the same man, Jamie, of course. Many good times were shared during our discussions as we analyzed, compared ideas and speculated about character motivation and events. I treasure the memories of those wonderful times with my mom. She passed away at the end of September. As I wait for the bittersweet day that the new book is released, I am reminded that my mentor is gone. I have lost the person who has shared the trials and tribulations of Jamie and Claire with me. She was my Outlander mentor and my life mentor. I will continue to read the books with her always in my heart and mind. I thank her for sharing such a wonderful series, even if there was sex in it!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06156016953230764581noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-9605875102710987572013-11-01T21:35:57.619-04:002013-11-01T21:35:57.619-04:00My Outlander Mentor is my younger sister, Jan Lare...My Outlander Mentor is my younger sister, Jan Larese. She told me about them, and got me hooked. I do not know how many times the book(s) went flying across the room. Then I had to call her and let her know how frustrated I was and was not going to read anymore. Why did she ever tell me about them? But I was hooked and I have just started rereading the series. Jackinoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-90391490804732860722013-11-01T19:47:39.489-04:002013-11-01T19:47:39.489-04:00Tag Team Comment. George: I resisted my dear fri...Tag Team Comment. George: I resisted my dear friend, Pam (who BTW had a dog named Jamie), who for years tried to get me to read Outlander. She first suggested, then needled, then cajoled. When I still wouldn't read it (I was an English Major, for pete's sake -- we DON'T read romance!), she marked all the saucy bits, hoping that would entice me. Nope, no thanks. But after 10 years of Pam begging me "just try it," I downloaded the audible version and started listening on some long drives. Oh my. (Comment from Clay: Pam and her husband Dave said we HAD TO READ THE BOOK because it changed their sex life!)<br /><br />Clay: I was training for a half marathon, in the winter, pounding along on the treadmill in the basement... BORING. So I was asking for something to listen to and she suggested this book she'd been listening to for the last week or so... Outlander. And that was that. Well, I pretty much read them straight through but George likes to read multiple books at the same time. So while we discussed the first 5 as we read them, I finished the last 2 way before she did and needed somebody to talk about the books with. So I started looking around online and ended up at the Compuserve forum and finally MOP. I've been a regular at MOP chat pretty much for 2-1/2 years now. All because of that first audiobook. <br /><br />So while Pam was the one who finally prodded enough for us to to start the books it was the 2 of us then eventually the larger Outlander community that perpetuated our enthusiasm for the story.Georgiannhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03812645530261841610noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-31717211133100765042013-11-01T18:43:23.474-04:002013-11-01T18:43:23.474-04:00I don't have a mentor per say. I used to foll...I don't have a mentor per say. I used to follow an online book club and the members kept mentioning Outlander. It seemed like every day there was a new post raving about the characters or scenes in the book. So, I went to the library and borrowed it. I have to mention-I judge books by their cover-not fair I know. When I saw the plain blue cover, I thought blah. Reading the first few chapters-I kept thinking what is all the hype about? Then Claire went through the stones..the book did. not. get. put. down. I finished the rest of it that day and read the next 3 books over the next 3-4 weeks. I was able to convince my two sisters, sister in law, one cousin and my best friend to read the series. Proud Outlander fan right here and I have learned to not always judge a book by its cover!Aliciahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16085659127623565712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-78130748172073197602013-11-01T18:19:39.811-04:002013-11-01T18:19:39.811-04:00Susan Panhuise is the wonderful person who started...Susan Panhuise is the wonderful person who started my trip through the fascinating world of Outlander! She handed me the first book and said "You'll love it!". To say the least..... Susan is my best friend and like a sister to me. After reading the series we have made it our yearly tradition to travel to Flagstaff, AZ for the Highland Games and to wallow in kilts and clans; and have had the joy of meeting Diana, having her sign books, and listening to her readings! I have known my mentor for over 20 years and we have shared our personal joys and sorrows countless times. One of the best gifts she's ever given me is Outlander!! Thanks Susanpenny davisnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-40017612432990817462013-11-01T18:19:27.530-04:002013-11-01T18:19:27.530-04:00My sister-in-law got me into Outlander. We are bot...My sister-in-law got me into Outlander. We are both bookworms and she graciously allowed me to borrow book one in paperback (hardcover copies of hers are not loaned out and now I know why!) I was instantly hooked the moment Claire met Jamie. And because of Outlander, DG, and my sis I am officially obsessed with all things scottish (mostly kilted men and/or a scot accent!) I have also learned soooo much about not only scottish history but american history as well. I am always on the lookout for historical fiction now, even though I know that I won't be reading anything but DG for some time, especially now that Starz is producing a series! What a domino effect my sis had on me! Love her for giving me Jamie and Claire! kittcatthttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00155190858547467368noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-70392236761886004712013-11-01T18:00:32.980-04:002013-11-01T18:00:32.980-04:00My Outlander Mentor is my friend Jennifer. I met J...My Outlander Mentor is my friend Jennifer. I met Jennifer through my colleague and teaching partner Peter. Jenn and Peter became good friends of mine. <br />In 2007, I was not a reader at all. I remember reading a lot when I was a kid and teen. As I went through university and Teacher's College, reading was assigned and not done for pleasure. At the end of the five years, I was done with books.<br />Jenn told me that I should read Outlander. I can tell you, I was not keen to pick up a book that was over 800 pages. However, I did start reading. Jenn had told me to stick with the book for a couple of hundred pages and then I would not be able to put it down. I can't say that I believed her. I can remember reading about Claire's hair. I can remember reading about Mrs. Baird and her hoovering. I can remembering thinking, "what is Jenn talking about?" Then I met a ghost on a blustery Scottish evening. My curiosity was piqued. Needless to say, I stuck with the novel. <br />Outlander was the first novel I ever stayed awake for. Outlander was the first novel that made me wake up in the middle of the night to pick up and continue reading. Outlander was the first novel that I ever reread. Outlander was the first novel in what has now become a long list of books read since 2007.<br />Obviously, I continued reading the series. I remember ordering DIA and Voyager online and waiting for them to arrive in the mail. I was so glad that I had Voyager when I completed DIA as I didn't even skip a beat ending one book and beginning the next. <br />I credit Jenn with starting, what is now, my love affair with reading. I credit Outlander (and the miraculous writing of Diana Gabaldon) with making me a lover of great literature.<br />As a result of my reading The Outlander Series, I have been able to pass on the love of all things Outlander to a number of friends and colleagues. I love to hear their reactions to different aspects of the series. I never spoil any part of the books, even when readers insistently ask specific questions. I knowingly smile and let them know I understand their angst (and joy) and would love to hear what they think as they continue reading!<br /><br />Thank you Jenn for introducing me to Outlander. More importantly, thank you Outlander for reigniting my love of reading. <br /><br />TheresaTheresahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02139884476907808140noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-77908750119424156672013-11-01T17:48:35.057-04:002013-11-01T17:48:35.057-04:00I began reading the Outlander Series because a dea...I began reading the Outlander Series because a dear co-worker Tonya B. quite simply wouldn't leave me alone about it.<br />Truth be known I was going through a very trying time. Not only did she stand by me and support me, she introduced me to my favorite series of all times. When I think of all the long discussions we had about Jamie, Claire et al. Little did I know at the time, that when I was reading and discussing the books, I wasn't mourning my son. I was intrigued, happy and hopeful.<br />I read the series over and over and still discover the same enjoyment and appreciation of time well spent.<br />To Dianna and Tonya, my forever thanks to you both.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01046246939886477181noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-72275880387803657282013-11-01T17:39:35.265-04:002013-11-01T17:39:35.265-04:00Lori Tinsley, best friend since 1979, encouraged m...Lori Tinsley, best friend since 1979, encouraged me to read the Outlander series in 2008, when my three boys were finally old enough not to burn the house down when I wasn't looking. Luckily, Diana G occasionally visits Atlanta and we've created several new Outlander groupies as we've piled friends into my van and hauled them along for book signings and lectures (Decatur Book Festival & DragonCon). I'm now encouraging a brand new group of converts to read Outlander, but I still swoon and sigh over the re-reads with my best girl, Lori. I've heard the audio version of the Outlander series is fantastic! Tracyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08909957688927490599noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-56089497133952643392013-11-01T14:04:03.421-04:002013-11-01T14:04:03.421-04:00My Outlander Mentor is my best friend Debbie. She...My Outlander Mentor is my best friend Debbie. She gave me Outlander and Dragonfly in Amber right before a flight to Tucson in 1994. We and another friend were going to visit a mutual friend that lived in Tucson. While there, we all took a trip to Las Vegas and a quick drive by the Grand Canyon. Well, needless to say, I didn't really see much of the sights - or my friends! <br /><br />Over the years we've discussed the books endlessly, and now with the TV series coming, we are TOTALLY fangirling all over the place! I called her during the NYCC and we discussed events for an hour. We even ended up purchasing the exact same Heughligans shirt.<br /><br />We've been friends for 47 years, and I look forward to many more Outlander talks!Maquishttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02902944356401327650noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-45939321834435879512013-11-01T12:47:06.944-04:002013-11-01T12:47:06.944-04:00My Outlander mentor is my online friend Tia. She&...My Outlander mentor is my online friend Tia. She's actually my vampsmut dealer. We met online on a paper crafting forum discussing Twilight of all things. She recommended the BDB series by JR Ward and surprised me with them for my birthday! I gobbled up those and she sent me another vamp series (IAD). After I finished those, I asked her.."Who is this Jamie you speak of?" That was all it took. I raced through all of the books, being sure to have the next on waiting. And the Lord John books. And everything else Dian Gabaldon writes. I had borrowed all of the books from the library and requested the set for my own use for Christmas last year. Now it's my turn to 'hook' another friend on Outlander. She's is listening to the audio version and can't wait to talk to me about it each time we meet! Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02488950770548791091noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2193939705192575193.post-24776916452640455272013-11-01T10:27:12.555-04:002013-11-01T10:27:12.555-04:00My sister Mary Kennedy got me hooked on the Outlan...My sister Mary Kennedy got me hooked on the Outlander Series. She kept telling me to read them and how great they are. She would ask me every time we spoke either in person or on the phone “Did you start reading them yet, you really need to read them, oh my, you have no idea and Jamie, wow” I have just started reading them and when I speak to her now, she asks did you get to this part or that part. It is quite funny because she has re-read them several times already and can’t wait to see what part I am up to. We are Scottish and I love the Scottish brogue, as I have grown up listing to it my entire life. Being that, both of my parents are from Paisley, Scotland. So, I am really enjoying the way it is written and I love to read it as if I were there when it all took place and I am hearing them with the brogue first hand. <br />I am really looking forward to the TV series coming out, so I can hear the brogue and see how this wonderful series unfolds. So, I better get a move on, so I can finish the books before the series is released. The next time I go back home to Scotland I would like to go and see the stones.<br />Margaret Kennedyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16274334200002334106noreply@blogger.com