Book Spotlight: Outlander Q&A
Becky Olson • March 24, 2025
Inspiration for the Next Book Club Journeys
Few stories have captured the hearts of readers and viewers quite like Outlander, the sweeping saga penned by Diana Gabaldon. This epic series, blending historical fiction, f antasy, and romance, whisks us away to the Scottish Highlands and beyond, where love defies the boundaries of time, space, and circumstance. That is why it is the inspiration for the next
Book Club Journeys.
Becky Olson, Nova Vista founder and avid book lover, tells us why Outlander is a perfect read for romance—particularly for those who love history.
At the heart of Outlander lies its most compelling element: the deep, transformative romance between Claire Beauchamp Randall, a 20th-century woman transported to the 18th century, and Jamie Fraser, a rugged Highland warrior. Their love story is more than passion and chemistry; it’s a tale of unwavering loyalty, sacrifice, and connection that resonates across centuries.
How do you feel about the romance between Jamie and Claire?
I love Jamie and Claire’s chemistry! Their bond is unforgettable. They’re both so strong-headed, so it’s fun to watch them fight or get under each other’s skin, but then they make up and it’s fire. Its exploration of enduring love and perseverance—who doesn’t want that?
What specifically drew you in?
I love reading contemporary romances that take place around the world, so when the outlander TV show came out, I started to hear about the series and was intrigued by it taking place in Scotland, and from a TV perspective I really love historical dramas.
Place in the book you’d want to visit the most?
It would be amazing to see the actual Craigh na Dun stone circle, but sadly it doesn’t exist! I just imagine how spiritual it would be, especially in the dark of night setting Claire sees them with the ritual happening around it. Luckily, the Callanish Stones on the Isle of Lewis inspired the shape of the stones in the show and you can visit those.
What places described in the book made you realize this would be a great Book Club Journeys?
The way Diana Gabaldon describes all the locations spectacularly, you feel like you are transported there, standing amongst the beauty.
I drew inspiration from the descriptions of Inverness and the Highlands locations for this trip. Here are just a few of the places we'll be visiting:
Culloden Moor & Battlefield:
The aftermath of the Battle of Culloden is a poignant setting, and Gabaldon's descriptions create haunting images of the moorland and its tragic history. It's also a pilgrimage for a lot of fans—for the Fraser tombstone.
Clava Cairns:
These mystical and atmospheric ancient standing stones are central to the story’s time-traveling premise.
Loch Ness:
The shimmering waters of Loch Ness are depicted with a sense of mystery and beauty, framed by the surrounding hills.
Edinburgh: We also start and end the trip in the historic streets of Edinburgh, which are brought to life in Outlander, featuring bustling markets, narrow wynds (alleys), and the towering presence of Edinburgh Castle. Gabaldon captures the lively yet gritty feel of 18th-century Edinburgh.
I've also been to Scotland before, so I know how enchanting it truly is and want to share that with other fans.
What makes this book a classic?
Outlander is a classic because it masterfully weaves together love, resilience, and adventure within a richly detailed historical setting. It’s truly an immersive experience, full of complex, relatable characters. It also transcends genres—I’d recommend it for anyone who loves a good romance, historical fiction, and fantasy alike. I’d also say the meticulous historical research brings the 18th century to life.
Favorite character?
Claire is a favorite, because she is a strong woman embodying independence, intelligence, and resilience in a world that often seeks to limit her. A skilled nurse (and later a surgeon), she thrives in male-dominated fields, relying on her sharp wit, courage, and resourcefulness to navigate both timelines. Her unwavering sense of self and refusal to compromise her values, even in the face of immense challenges, make her a powerful role model. Claire’s complexity resonates with women who admire characters who defy societal constraints and carve their own paths.
If you found a portal, what era would you want to step into?
Now that I’ve experienced the wonders of modern Egypt, the thought of stepping into ancient Egypt feels like it would be a remarkable adventure. I can only imagine walking through bustling markets filled with vibrant colors and rich scents or witnessing the grandeur of temples and monuments in their prime, freshly painted and teeming with life. To catch a glimpse of their daily lives would be nothing short of extraordinary.
This year, I celebrated my 40th birthday and considering this is a memorable milestone, I wanted a luxurious and immensely relaxing experience to ring in the decade. While I am not necessarily a beach person, The One&Only Mandarina called my name immediately.
Planning a vacation that pleases everyone—especially when involving multiple generations of families—can feel nearly impossible. One wants adventure, another wants to relax, and someone else just wants good food and no logistics to manage. This is where river cruises win the day. A lesser-known gem in the world of travel, river cruising offers an all-in-one experience that checks the boxes for every generation and personality type. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday or simply looking to reconnect as a family, here’s why river cruising makes the ideal multi-generational getaway. 1. No-Stress Travel, No Packing and Repacking One of the biggest challenges of family travel is managing transportation and accommodation in multiple cities. River cruising eliminates that. You unpack once and let the ship do the moving. Each day brings a new destination, but your “hotel” stays the same. This makes it especially ideal for older travelers who prefer to avoid constant transitions and younger ones who need the comfort of a familiar place to sleep each night. 2. Built-in Variety for Every Interest and Energy Level On a river cruise, every day can look different—for everyone. Active excursions like biking or hiking appeal to adventurous teens and parents, while slower-paced walking tours or local tastings suit older generations. Many cruises even offer kid-friendly or family-themed excursions in port. Meanwhile, those who’d rather enjoy a slow morning with coffee and a view can stay onboard and soak in the scenery. 3. Smaller Ships = Intimate, Personal Experience River cruise ships are smaller than ocean liners, which means more personal service and less crowd-induced stress. This creates a calmer, more connected atmosphere that’s great for families looking to spend quality time together. With fewer passengers onboard, you can gather for meals, games, or drinks without needing to “claim space” early or shout over a loud dining room. 4. Something for Every Taste Bud River cruise lines often take food seriously—offering regionally inspired cuisine and local wines, with plenty of kid-friendly and special-diet options. Sharing meals as a family becomes one of the highlights of the trip, especially when you're enjoying authentic pasta in Italy or fresh strudel along the Danube. 5. Immersive Cultural Experiences (Without the Overwhelm) River cruises dock right in the heart of historic towns and cities, making it easy to explore without long bus rides or confusing maps. From castle visits and cooking classes to market tours and museum stops, excursions are curated to be both educational and enjoyable. It’s a fun way for kids and adults alike to experience history and culture up close—without the hassle. 6. It’s Easy to Be Together—and Apart Sometimes the best vacations allow everyone to do their own thing for a few hours. River cruising makes this simple. While grandparents enjoy wine on the sun deck, the teens might join a guided bike tour, and younger kids hang out with parents in a nearby park or on a kid-friendly tour. Then everyone reconvenes in the evening to swap stories and share a meal. 7. Special Moments Worth Remembering Whether it's celebrating a birthday onboard, taking a family photo in front of a centuries-old castle, or just watching the sunset together from the top deck, river cruising provides natural moments of togetherness. The pace is slower, the surroundings are beautiful, and the distractions are minimal—allowing families to truly connect across generations. Step into River Cruising River cruising takes the stress out of multi-generational travel and replaces it with convenience, connection, and cultural discovery. With built-in comfort, ever-changing scenery, and the perfect mix of activities and downtime, it’s no wonder more families are choosing the river as their next vacation route. So if you’re dreaming of a trip that brings everyone closer together—without the usual vacation chaos—a river cruise might just be your family’s perfect match.
Did you know the celebration known as “ Christmas in July ” was started on July 24, 1933, at Keystone Camp, a girls’ summer camp in North Carolina, by co-founder Fannie Holt. The festivities included gift exchanges, a visit from Santa Claus, and cotton imitation snow. The camp still celebrates their tradition today. While most of us have heard of this mid-year milestone, we don’t actually participate in it, however, July is a great time to start thinking about your holiday plans.
This summer we are celebrating one of the best kept secrets in the travel industry—river cruising. You may or may not be familiar with river cruising. It’s been around for awhile, but has been gaining momentum due to all its advantages. Check out our river cruising perks article to read more. June, nestled between the spring blooms and the peak summer heat, is a golden opportunity to explore the world’s most breathtaking waterways. It’s also a great time to start planning for next June. Whether you prefer gliding through the historic rivers of Europe, the mystical waterways of Asia, or the lush landscapes of the Amazon, river cruising offers a blend of idyllic weather, cultural festivities, and unmatched natural beauty.
What do you think of when people say they are going on a cruise? For many, it conjures up gigantic ocean liners filled to the brim with umbrella drinks, smells of suntan lotion, and shuffleboard. It might also bring up the idea of endless ocean waves, crowds and long lines, and buffets. Don’t get us wrong, some people love a good ocean cruise and they offer a lot of options in one central location, but ocean cruises are not for everyone. Luckily, that same concept of just unpack, sitback, and relax isn’t just for ocean cruises. If you are thinking to yourself, “But, it’s still cruising, right?” Technically, yes, but it’s an entirely different world and experience.
Scotland is more than a destination—it's an experience. For travelers seeking drama, natural wonder, and a touch of time-traveling romance, a Scottish adventure offers it all—especially for fans of the beloved book and TV series Outlander. This is why it was chosen for our next Book Club Journey.
As the chill of winter fades and the vibrancy of spring begins to bloom, there’s no better place to welcome the new season than Greece. With its mild weather, stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Greece offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for travelers seeking a rejuvenating spring break. Here are just a few reasons why Greece should be added to your travel wish-list. 1. Perfect Weather Spring in Greece is a breath of fresh air. If you are wanting a hot and sunny, tropical spring break, Greece might not be right for you. However, if you are looking for stunning views—Greece touts a seemingly endless coastline, stretching for nearly 8,500 miles across thousands of dreamy islands and magazine-shoot-ready beaches, fantastic food, and roaming through living history, Greece should be first on your list. If you are looking for that warm beach vacation—try Greece in the summer! Starting in March, the days are usually sunny and the highs get to around 60℉ (15℃). It slowly warms April-June, finding pleasant temps from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22°C), making it ideal for exploring without the intense heat of summer. The gentle Mediterranean breeze and blooming wildflowers create an enchanting atmosphere that’s hard to resist. 2. Fewer Crowds Unlike the bustling summer months, spring in Greece is delightfully peaceful. Popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens are far less crowded, allowing you to explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis or the charming alleys of Oia without jostling for space. This off-peak season also means shorter lines, better photo opportunities, and a more intimate experience of Greece’s beauty.
Have you ever dined alone? No, not at home, but going out on the town and treating yourself to the best. There seems to be a strange stigma around dining alone—especially in a fine dining establishment. I am here to tell you to get out of your own way—and celebrate you. I traveled to the Loire Valley in France to explore the region and scout for an upcoming book club journey. There’s something incredibly magical about the Loire Valley—the gentle hills, the vineyards stretching to the horizon, and the castles that whisper stories of centuries past.
Recently, I traveled to Los Angeles. Originally, I had planned on writing about the many fun adventures I had on my first LA trip. However, as it sometimes goes with work travel, I mostly saw the inside of the hotel. At least this hotel was the historic and iconic Biltmore . If you aren’t familiar with the Biltmore, opening on October 1, 1923 it has established a long history of elegance and opulence. Its very presence was a statement to the rest of the world that Los Angeles, which was a young city at the time, had arrived to metropolis status. Unsurprisingly, it quickly rose to fame as the hotspot for Hollywood elite, glamorous parties, and the backdrop for many popular movies. The Biltmore still radiates that grandiose, old-school charm, well-suited for the reason I was there, the Fabled Fantasy Events Romantasy Book Convention. Romantasy is the perfect melding of Romance and Fantasy and, as a genre, has been blowing up in popularity (for good reason). Authors, book industry professionals, entertainers, vendors, and fans gathered to celebrate their favorite books.
When people begin talking about a romantic getaway, minds typically drift to the country known for love—France. And I agree! I recently wrote a love letter to France , which highlights a recent stay there. However, here, I want to showcase a lesser-known, but utterly-romantic destination, Finland. In the heart of winter, Finland offers an enchanting backdrop for a romantic getaway. With its pristine snow-covered landscapes, cozy lodges, and unique Arctic experiences, it is a dream destination for couples seeking intimacy and adventure. Whether you long to chase the Northern Lights, relax in a private sauna, or explore winter’s serene beauty, Finland provides the perfect setting for love. Here’s why February is an ideal time to visit and the highlights you can look forward to. Why February is Perfect for Romance in Finland Northern Lights Season: February is one of the best months to witness the ethereal Aurora Borealis. Clear, dark nights offer optimal conditions for this magical display, which is sure to leave you and your partner in awe. Winter Wonderland: Finland’s landscapes transfo rm into a snowy paradise, perfect for romantic activities like sleigh rides, skiing, and snowshoeing. Cozy Retreats: From glass igloos under the stars to rustic log cabins with crackling fireplaces, Finland’s accommodations are designed for warmth and intimacy. Authentic Experiences: Finnish culture emphasizes relaxation and connection, making February an excellent time to enjoy traditions like sauna bathing and ice swimming. Romantic Highlights of Finland in February Lapland: Arctic Magic for Two Aurora Igloos: Spend a night in a glass-roofed igloo in Rovaniemi or Kakslauttanen, where you can gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Glide through snow-draped forests on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride, an intimate and unforgettable experience. Husky Safaris: Share the thrill of mushing your own team of huskies through breathtaking Arctic landscapes. Helsinki: Urban Romance with Nordic Flair Seaside Walks: Take a hand-in-hand stroll along Helsinki’s picturesque waterfront, dotted with historic architecture and ice-covered harbors. Luxurious Spas: Pamper yourselves at one of Helsinki’s luxurious spas, such as the Allas Sea Pool or Löyly, which combine saunas with stunning sea views. Nordic Cuisine: Indulge in a romantic dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, such as salmon, reindeer, and lingonberries, paired with Finnish wines. The Finnish Lakeland: Serene Escape Frozen Lakes: Explore the tranquil beauty of frozen lakes, ideal for ice skating or simply enjoying the serene winter scenery. Private Saunas: Finland is the land of saunas, and there’s nothing more romantic than sharing a private sauna followed by a refreshing dip in the snow. Snowshoeing Adventures: Trek through snow-blanketed forests, where the only sound is the crunch of snow underfoot. Santa Claus Village: Whimsical Romance Meet Santa Together: Relive childhood magic by visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, a delightful experience for couples young at heart. Arctic Circle Ceremony: Mark your visit with a special ceremony to cross the Arctic Circle, symbolizing a unique milestone in your relationship.
