4.2 AVERAGE


The last 150 pages of this book were the best.
adventurous emotional funny medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This series is still fun to read, but honestly the next generation characters just aren’t as compelling as Jamie and Claire. The various plots are convoluted, and the stakes aren’t high anymore, since the fans would riot if you killed off the main characters. Time travel is barely explored, and all the really scary villains are gone. I thought the last book was the end of the series, but this one ends with a cliffhanger, so I guess there is more to come. I think Gabaldon is an excellent writer, but Outlander may have gone on too long.

A very slow pace for a long book that never seemed to end. I struggled to finish.
More a collection stories featuring multiple protagonists to illustrate life in the American colonies during the American revolution.
Not my cup of tea these days, with all of the crazy right-wing extremists disrupting our current day civil society to assert their rights by force instead of through an established democratic process.

cogewea's review

4.0

Diana Gabaldon's latest installment in the Outlander series, Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone, is a masterful tapestry of historical fiction and familial relationships that leaves readers both enthralled and yearning for more. Gabaldon's unwavering commitment to historical accuracy, though commendable, contributes to the book's heft, while her focus on family dynamics infuses the story with depth and emotion. However, for readers disinterested in certain character arcs, the journey may occasionally falter.

Gabaldon's dedication to historical research is undeniable. The vivid and immersive portrayal of 18th-century North Carolina stands as a testament to her meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect of daily life, from clothing to customs, is flawlessly depicted, thrusting readers into a richly textured world that breathes authenticity. The level of detail in matters like medical practices, cultural norms, and political tensions underscores Gabaldon's dedication to creating a truly immersive experience. The political and social landscapes are equally captivating, offering readers a window into a time defined by its unique challenges and aspirations.

At over 1300 pages in my edition, Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone is an ambitious endeavor that demands a significant investment of time. I consider myself a fast reader and it took me over a month to read the novel. While Gabaldon's narrative skill ensures that every scene serves a purpose, the novel's length can be a double-edged sword. The pacing, at times deliberate and immersive, may test the patience of readers seeking swift resolutions. However, for those willing to embark on a sprawling journey, the narrative rewards with a profound sense of immersion into the characters' lives.

Family lies at the heart of Gabaldon's narrative, and her ability to craft intricate connections between family members is truly impressive. The relationships in Gabaldon's universe are raw, authentic, and deeply human. The Fraser and MacKenzie clans continue to evolve, navigating the intricacies of love, loyalty, and conflict with raw authenticity. Jamie and Claire's enduring love story remains a poignant centerpiece, while Brianna and Roger's devotion underscores the powerful ties that bind generations. The emergence of the next generation adds an important contribution to the tapestry of family ties that form the heart of the novel. Gabaldon's portrayal of family relationships serves as a mirror to our own experiences, making the characters' triumphs and tribulations all the more relatable.

However, it is worth noting that not all character arcs may resonate equally with every reader. For those who find themselves disinterested in the stories of William, Jamie's natural son, and Lord John Grey, certain portions of the novel may feel like detours from the core narrative. While these arcs contribute to the larger tapestry of the Outlander universe, they might leave some readers wishing for a more focused exploration of their preferred characters.

Gabaldon masterfully intertwines the personal and the political, making each character's journey a microcosm of the broader historical context. The struggles for autonomy and identity resonate with contemporary themes, reminding readers of the enduring nature of the human experience. The pacing of the novel allows for a rich exploration of the characters' inner worlds, making their choices and sacrifices all the more resonant.

In Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone, Diana Gabaldon weaves a sprawling historical epic that delves into the depths of family bonds against a meticulously researched backdrop. The novel's length and detailed historical context may test the patience of some, but for those willing to invest the time, the payoff is a richly woven story that resonates with emotion and authenticity. While certain character arcs may not align with every reader's interests, the overall narrative is a testament to Gabaldon's storytelling prowess and her ability to capture the essence of the human experience across time and generations.

OK, I'll admit it. These books come under the category of guilty pleasures. Not great literature, but they can pull you in for many hours. Hope I don't have to wait seven years for the next, possibly last one.

jensimmonds's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 30%

Terrible writing and repetition. This was the book that broke my patience with this author. I can't read this series anymore. I wanted to know how it ended but the writing was so awful I am just going to wait for the tv series to end and pretend that is how the books ended. I can't put up with the writing that appears to be not edited in anyway. 
adventurous mysterious tense slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I love DG’s way of writing!! I have been eagerly waiting for this book for 8 long years, and I felt like it did — yet did not live up to my expectations. Maybe that’s just the fall out of waiting and anticipating the continuation of a story and characters you have become so invested in over many years.

Tell me I don't have to wait this long again for the next one! It has been long enough I did struggle to remember some of the details, but there is no way I have time to go back and reread this series!