An Echo in the Bone

by Diana Gabaldon

The seventh book in the Outlander series, An Echo in the Bone, continues the 18th century story of Claire and Jamie.

Claire Randall is a modern-day time traveler, who in previous volumes has traveled back and forth between the 20th and 18th centuries.  In this latest installment, she remains in the 18th century, in order to be close to her Scotsman husband, Jamie Fraser.

This story was enriched by the strength and longevity of their relationship.  Their bond and knowledge of each other is tighter than ever. We see a depth in their relationship that is closer to real life.  The sex was not as frequent or adventurous (which I
 missed), but they are getting older and this is a reality for many of us.  Their lives have more layers - children, grandchildren and many more people who rely on their wisdom and authority.

Clair is still seen as a "white witch", due to her ablity to heal and know the future. While Jamie, has softened a bit - more contemplative and less fiery.  No worries, he's still the sexy, kilt-wearing hunk of a man that we have come to love.

We see much more of the family - Brianna, William and Iam play big parts in this story.  And, we can't forget the lovelorn, Lord John Grey - he has still got it bad for Jamie - and that's always a good thing.

Diana Gabaldon, has once again hopped back and forth between the two hundred years in a smooth and seamless manner.  This time she tells the story through letters written from Claire and Jamie to Brianna.  Brianna and Roger are now living in the family home, Lollybrach, in Scotland and they have painstakingly preserved the letters and kept them in order through the centuries.

William, Jamie's unknowing illegitimate son, is a duplicate of his father.  He is serving and quickly rises in the British Army and has grown to be a courageous and respected leader.  He is very close to his adopted father, Lord John Grey, who continues to hob-nob with the rich and famous.  I enjoyed the cameo appearance of a nude Benjamin Franklin. His intelligence and eccentric beliefs we quite entertaining.

Ian Murray, Jamie's nephew, who in past volumes lived and married among the Native Americans, was extremely valuable when it came to getting out of a bind - which Jamie and Claire notoriously find themselves in at irregular frequency.

I would highly recommend this latest volume of the Outlander series. Less smut, more history, always entertaining.