Droughtlander is tough! Whether you are waiting for the release of Outlander season 8 or the release of book 10, waiting for the return of our favorite characters is no fun. If you especially miss Claire Fraser and her fierceness, there are some excellent books to read.
With lead women who are definitely not the “meek and obedient type”, we have five books that are the perfect mix of historical fiction, romance, and fantasy to help hold you over while we wait.
A Curious Beginning by Deanna Raybourn
In Deanna Raybourn’s A Curious Beginning (book one of the Veronica Speedwell series), Veronica is thrown into a world of mystery. She must work with Stoker, her new and grumpy acquaintance, to evade and track down a murderer.
Veronica Speedwell is a woman who knows herself, knows what she wants, and refuses to show up as anything other than genuine. She is also headstrong and witty, and doesn’t shy away from challenging the norm, much like Claire.
A Curious Beginning is great for fans who wish to see an 1800s woman showing up unapologetically authentic and solving Sherlock Holmes-esque crimes along the way. Plus, the series has nine books to keep you satiated through Droughtlander (and a 10th set to release in March 2026)!
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
Octavia E. Butler’s Black women protagonists are known for being strong, complex, and resilient characters. Dana Franklin, the main character of Kindred, is no different.
Dana is repeatedly drawn back in time from 1976 Los Angeles to antebellum Maryland. Each time she returns to the 1800s, she is burdened with protecting Rufus, the son of a white plantation owner.
Dana shares several similarities with Claire. Not only does she travel through time, but she is also resourceful and courageous despite the traumas she faces. She navigates the horrors of the past with compassion. Kindred is an emotionally intense and brutal read, but it is impossible to put down.
The London Seance Society by Sarah Penner
Sarah Penner’s The London Seance Society gives us not one, but two bold women. Taking place in 1873, the novel follows Lenna Wickes, a science-minded skeptic, and Vaudeline D’Alaire, a medium, as they travel from Paris to London in an attempt to solve two murders. As they investigate (and meddle), they get pulled into a web of conspiracy and secrets.
The women must embrace spiritualism, the unknown, and each other to make it out alive. Despite their differences, both women mirror Claire's passionate, daring, and loyal nature. This novel is a great fantasy historical fiction with LGBTQIA+ representation.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
The Invisible Life of Addie La ue begins in 1714 France and follows Addie LaRue through time to 2014 New York City. Addie is different from Claire in that she doesn’t jump through time; she lives it.
Young Addie made a deal with the Dark (also known as Luc) for eternal life, but is instead cursed with being forgotten by everyone except Luc. Like Claire, Addie is determined and resilient. She spends her eternal life constantly adapting. She isn’t afraid to speak her mind, stand up for herself, or fall in love along the way. It is the perfect blend of fantasy, historical fiction, and romance to scratch your Outlander itch.
Weyward by Emilia Hart
Weyward is another historical fiction that shifts between modern and historical timelines. Instead of following one woman, Weyward depicts the journeys of three different women, all living in Cumbria, England, during different time periods—Altha in 1619, Violet in 1942, and Kate in 2019.
Each woman shares unique personality traits with our beloved La Dame Blanche. Altha is a healer. Violet is a scientist, ahead of her time. Kate is growing into her newfound independence. All of the women’s difficulties lead them to discover their bravery and power. While this isn't a romance novel, the women still embody Claire in so many ways.
Enjoy these books while we wait for Outlander season 8 premiering on Friday, March 6 on STARZ.