10 Books Similar to Outlander

Jun 19

Jun 19 10 Books Similar to Outlander

There’s something deeply satisfying about getting lost in a book series. Whether it's the comfort of returning to familiar characters or the long-form storytelling that spans decades or even centuries, series novels allow us to sink into worlds that feel as real as our own. Reading a series can help build reading stamina, deepen our emotional connections with characters, and deliver that delicious sense of anticipation for what comes next.

That’s what makes the Outlander book series so beloved. Fans of Outlander can’t seem to get enough of Claire and Jamie’s love story, filled with time travel romance, danger, and passion that stretches across continents and centuries. It’s one of the most popular historical fantasy novels today—and for good reason. The blend of historical fiction, sweeping romance, rich setting (18th century Scotland, anyone?), and just the right touch of the supernatural keeps readers turning pages and tuning into the TV show.

If you’ve finished the Outlander books or are just looking for your next epic escape, this list is for you. Below, I’m sharing a round-up of books similar to Outlander that capture the same sense of historical adventure, emotional intensity, and time-bending romance.

Books Similar to Outlander

In this post, you’ll find a mix of historical fiction titles that echo the magic of the Outlander series. Some are time travel romances; others are richly woven historical narratives with a powerful love story at their center. You’ll find books set in ancient Scotland, the 18th century, and even beyond—each with immersive settings, unforgettable characters, and the same sweeping scope that makes Outlander so iconic.

Whether you're craving the rugged wilderness of the Highlands, the scholarly intrigue of A Discovery of Witches, or the romantic pull of a knight in shining armor, these books offer a satisfying follow-up to your Outlander obsession.

You might also enjoy my roundup of the best historical fiction books or this curated list of best historical fiction authors.

What Is The Outlander Book Series About

The Outlander series follows Claire Randall, a World War II combat nurse who is mysteriously transported back in time to 18th century Scotland. There, she meets the dashing Highland warrior Jamie Fraser, and their lives become irrevocably intertwined in a story filled with political intrigue, war, magic, and an epic love story that spans centuries.

The series is known for its vivid historical detail, passionate romance, and unique blend of genres—historical fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and romance. It has captivated readers worldwide and spawned a hit TV show that continues to grow in popularity.

Who Wrote The Outlander Book Series

Outlander was written by Diana Gabaldon, an American author with a background in science. Her debut novel, Outlander, was published in 1991 and has since evolved into a multi-book series with a dedicated global fanbase. Gabaldon is known for her meticulous research, richly drawn characters, and masterful ability to weave together history and fantasy.

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What Books Are Like The Outlander Series

The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley

This beautifully written novel blends historical fiction and time travel romance in a way that will immediately appeal to Outlander fans. Set partly in modern-day Scotland and partly in the early 1700s, it follows a novelist whose writing seems to echo real historical events. The atmospheric setting and dual timeline evoke the magic of Diana Gabaldon’s work. Fans of the sea by Susanna Kearsley motif will especially love this one.

The Lost Queen by Signe Pike

Also listed in Best Historical Fiction Books

Set in ancient Scotland and inspired by real historical figures, this book tells the story of Languoreth, a forgotten queen from the 6th century and sister to the man who inspired the legend of Merlin. Rich in Celtic mythology, this novel is perfect for readers drawn to strong female protagonists and richly imagined ancient settings. The follow-up, The Forgotten Kingdom, continues the saga. If you loved Queen by Signe Pike, this is a must-read.

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

A gripping mix of fantasy, history, and romance, this novel features a reluctant witch and a centuries-old vampire who uncover a magical manuscript that could change everything. With its academic setting, rich mythology, and forbidden love story, it’s a natural pick for Outlander fans. And yes, it’s been adapted into a TV show too.

[The book character I’d be best friends with is] Matthew de Clairmont from A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. Because of course this would be a platonic friendship right? (It would not.) He's always handy to have around in a pinch, knows his way around fashion, culture and wine, and has a pretty impressive list of friends, which could all be fun. I know he's killed thousands of people, but we all have baggage. - An excerpt from my author interview with Kelley McNeil

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Though set in modern times, this deeply emotional love story about a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel, and the woman who loves him, echoes many of the same themes as Outlander. The exploration of love tested by time and circumstance is haunting, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

[The book character I’d be best friends with is] Henry DeTamble, the romantic librarian at the Newberry Library in Chicago [from The Time Traveler's Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger]. I'd miss him when he time traveled but fascinated by his future and past life when he'd reveal snippets. - An excerpt from my author interview with Judith F. Brenner

Into the Wilderness by Sara Donati

Often described as "what happened after Outlander," this series picks up in the late 18th century with Elizabeth Middleton, an Englishwoman who moves to the American frontier. There, she meets Nathaniel Bonner, a rugged frontiersman. It has the same adventurous spirit, compelling romance, and historical depth as Outlander. Fans of wilderness by Sara Donati will be thrilled.

A Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Deveraux

This classic time travel romance features a modern woman who is whisked back to 16th century England, where she meets a gallant knight. Deveraux balances sweeping romance with historical tension, and fans of shining armor by Jude Deveraux will appreciate the parallels with Claire and Jamie’s tale.

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Though more fantastical, this retelling of the Arthurian legends through the eyes of the women involved offers the same sweeping storytelling and feminist perspective that makes Outlander so unique. It’s an epic love story wrapped in myth and history.

…there is one author who wrote the one book that catapulted my imagination into a whole new realm; a book I've read ten or so times; a novel that from the first read became my favorite book. Not only that, but I have since devoured all her other works.
The author is Marion Zimmer Bradley, and the book is The Mists of Avalon.
There is something about this novel that cracked open a whole new world of creativity for me. I've adored it as a reader, and I've adored it as a writer. I love Morgan Le Fey and the fantasy/fairytale realm, the world-building, and the folklore of King Arthur. I love the feminine focus, the imagery, the layers and layers of storylines, overt and nuanced. My love for this book is hard to put into eloquent words as it has meant different things to me each time I've read it. But she will forever remain one of my favorite authors and The Mists of Avalon will always be my favorite book. - An excerpt from my author interview with Tracy Hewitt Meyer

The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley

Another gem from Kearsley, this novel tells the story of a grieving woman who finds herself slipping between the present day and the 18th century while staying at an old Cornish house. The evocative setting, time traveler plot, and emotional depth will resonate with fans of Claire’s journey.

Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

The second in the All Souls trilogy, this book takes the main characters back in time to Elizabethan England. Like Outlander, it blends a time travel romance with real historical figures and rich period detail.

I absolutely fell in love with Matthew de Claremont, a main character in A Discover of Witches and the All Souls Trilogy by Deborah Harkness. He’s a vampire, but a nice one and undeniably memorizing and intelligent. We meet and immediately are attracted. When the elevator door finally opens, we go for a drink in a secluded dark corner and he tells me about his childhood growing up in the 6th century France (see, France pops up again) - An excerpt from my author interview with P. L. Jonas

The Secret Wife of Aaron Burr by Susan Holloway Scott

For those drawn to the political intrigue and historical depth of Outlander, this novel explores the life of a woman who loved one of America’s most controversial founding fathers. The historical fiction here is vivid and complex, with a powerful love story at its core.

If you’re yearning for more tales that blend romance, history, and adventure, these titles will keep you turning pages late into the night. Whether you’re craving more 18th century drama, ancient Scotland intrigue, or time traveler love stories, these books will satisfy that Outlander-shaped hole in your reading life.

Happy reading, fellow historical fiction lovers!

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