What I Learned From Outlander

Over the past few years, I’ve been completely taken over by Outlander. I have a slight obsession with Dougal, while most people would leave their own personal Franks for the chance to look under Jamie Fraser’s kilt. While we clearly all watch Outlander for the history, there have been some other things that I’ve learned along the way. Here’s a comprehensive list…maybe you’ll learn something from me.

1. It’s now okay to hear voices, but only if they come through stones. Otherwise, you’re still crazy…or a witch. 
2. Speaking of witches, I also learned that vaccine scars will kill you faster than the actual disease.
3. However, whipping scars…now they won’t kill you. In fact, whipping scars are very useful.
4. On the other hand, sometimes diseases can be used to your advantage.
5. Sleeping with, excuse me, marrying the second in command is the way to go. When he overthrows number one, you’ll rule. Er, you’ll help him rule. 
6. The way to get your man isn’t by giving your honey pot away–your life has to be at risk. That whole damsel in distress thing is the clincher. It works even better, if once you have him, your independent woman side comes out.
7. If you think a ghost is watching your wife, it’s probably time to force her to leave.
8. Always befriend your man’s sister. Only she can help prevent those hussies from coming around. 
9. It’s never to late to reconnect with the love of your life. However, you may have to deal with some leg hair first.
10. The saying may be, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” but I think “When in France, do as the French do” is better. 
11. If you’ve kept your daughter’s father a secret for most of her life, don’t be surprised when she get’s pissed…especially if she’s a red head. 
12. Never take your mother for granted. You have no idea what she went through to have you…(in this case though, we know she went through the stones).
13. Smoozing multiple men is one of the best ways to assure loyalty… and gifts. Lots of shiny presents.
14. If you are curious about time travel, killing someone may not be the only way to accomplish it. I would consider continuing to look for a way. Karma catches up to you.
15. Always shout out your skills when dealing with kings, lairds, and chieftains. They may find use for you, even if you are a spy.
16. If you wish to see a King, just hope he had plenty of fiber that day. In fact, maybe send him some fiber the day before to prepare. It should be number two on your list.
17. Being known for your beauty is one thing, but being known as a badass who can curse you is even better.
18. When you have an open marriage, try to set rules and boundaries so no one get’s hurt…or crashes a graduation party.
19. A red coat is not a fashion statement. If the red coats are coming, they are not referring to a trunk sale. Run the other way. 
20. Never underestimate a good dog. They’re quite handy to have around.
21. Speaking of being handy, when stealing, it’s vital to be crazy sneaky. You certainly wouldn’t want to ask anyone for a hand.
22. If you find out there’s a slim chance that the love of your life didn’t die on a battlefield, maybe hire a private investigator. They know everything, that’s why their hair is so big. Or research yourself until you’re sure.
23. Never assume someone was taken by faeries. They may be tricky, but they aren’t malicious. This goes for adults and children.
24. If you must travel all around, bring an accountant. They may not be able to fight with a sword, but their words are pretty dangerous, especially when written down.
25. Finally, I learned that waiting is the worst thing to ever happen to a Sassenach. Book 10…we’re ready.

The next episode of Season 3 is starting soon! How do you think it’s going so far? I mean, I know we haven’t gotten to the print shop scene, but I’m enjoying it. What has your favorite part been so far? Comment below.

For More Outlander Posts Click HERE

And maybe check out Kelsey’s review of the special Outlander themed WeeBox, a subscription box straight from bonny Scotland. Check it out HERE!

About the Authors

Sarah Fischer and Kelsey McKnight met in college and haven’t stopped talking to each other since. Sarah works a day job doing background investigations which is a fancy way of saying she gets to be nosy for a living. Kelsey runs two non-profit organizations and raises the most precious child on the planet. However, at night, they turn into two saucy romance novelists.

Sarah writes college romances that would make Mrs. Fitzgibbons blush. Roger and Bree would definitely approve.

They can be found HERE

Kelsey writes Scottish Historical Romances. No, it isn’t Outlander, but her stories have men in kilts, ladies in elegant dresses, and overwhelming drama. She also has a contemporary romance that plays with contracts, love, money, and business. Kelsey and Sarah also both have short stories in the anthology Craving Bad. It’s filled with bad boys and the girls they love.

They can be found HERE

A Day in the Life

Diana Gabaldon is a master of mixing business with pleasure when it comes to facts and fantasy. She put a dream guy in a real-life world that we can all immerse ourselves into. But Jamie’s a laird, even though he’s usually on the run. He has friends and relatives in high places that generally keeps him, and his wife Claire, fed and dressed and reasonably housed very often. But what about the common man? What of the farmers and their wives or the lads and lasses who went to the cities to make their fortune?

Today we’re going to chat a bit about about what life was like for those not blessed with a title, a killer bod, or the ability to make us swoon with the swipe of a kilt…

Highland Homes

 

The average Scottish family didn’t live in a manor home or castle like Jamie grew up in. Mostly, they were born, lived, and died in a small hut made of a mud and sand mixture over a wooden frame with a straw roof. There were usually no windows, as the common man couldn’t afford glass, with the only light coming from the front door, the hole in the ceiling that allowed smoke to escape from the center fire, and handmade candles.

If there was money to spare, and you had some strong lads from the nearby village to help you, the home could be made of stone with a small fire place built right into the wall. Some of these sturdier houses have even withstood the tests of time and still have people living in them today! In the winters, if you couldn’t afford a barn or shed for your animals, you’d be sharing some of your living space with your livestock, as the snow in Scotland can pile up!

And maybe you’d be lucky enough to share your living space with HIM!

Farming

 

The average Highlander relied heavily on milk products for a large part of their diet. So they kept high numbers of cattle, sheep, and goats. Goats in particular thrived in the Highlands, as they could eat anything and still produce milk, although cattle was largely preferred. The butter, cheese, and milk would be used by the family or sold and traded for other goods they couldn’t make themselves. There was also the meat to consider. Every fall, some of the animals would be slaughtered and their meat salted to keep the farmers through the long winter months. And if winter wasn’t kind, the animals could be bled, their blood added to the morning porridge to give added nutrients.

Barley and oats were also a farming staple, providing another large portion of the Highland diet. It could be made into things like porridge, cakes, bread, and then served with a bit of honey or butter. Kale and hemp were also grown, as were turnips and cabbages before the introduction of the potato.

But all these things took money and land, something that was usually controlled by landlords or lower nobles, making the farmers who usually worked the lands, tenants. These tenants would have to pay a portion of their crop to their landlords. Still, if the land was good and there were enough people to work it, a family could make it through the winter…even if it was only on stale bread.

Clothes 

 

What we see on Outlander are perfectly disheveled Scots in gallant plaid who still look handsome when covered in blood, women with polished buns and clean hems, and the rest of the costumes we’ve all grown to love. Now, the costumes were all carefully cultivated and created to be as historically accurate as possible, save for some tartan shades and the like, but what did the rest of Scotland wear?

Women’s outfits weren’t much different than those in England, Ireland, and the surrounding areas. Mainly consisting of linen shifts and homespun dresses in various colors, married women covered their heads in kerchiefs while the unmarried lasses were allowed to wear theirs down and uncovered. Many women did often wear tartan shawls that was really an all purpose item. It was used for warmth over the shoulders, around the head like a veil, to cover babies and small children, or used as a makeshift pouch to carry things in. They were often bare-footed year round, but sometimes donned leather or deerskin shoes that were similar to the Native American Moccasins in North America.

For the most part, men lived in their kilts, wearing them while working during the way, then using them as bedding at night. But as you can imagine, it wasn’t always easy to do all the farming with a great pile of tartan wrapped around you. So some men wore trews, a sort of leggings that were made of tartan or the usual homespun that made up shirts and dresses. A shorter kilt, that doesn’t have the upper portion that wraps around the shoulder, also came into style in the early part of the 1700s, an item that allowed them more freedom. When not barefoot, leather or deerskin shoes were the thing to wear over stockings. And of course, sporrans were worn, but not every day, as a small pouch of leather would  be normally used instead. Knitted and decorative hats were also worn by men and were often colorful.

The Average Day

Highlanders would wake up when the sun rose, getting the most of out daylight hours. The wife/mother would dress and build up the fire while the husband/father would go tend to the animals. A large pot of porridge would be made for the family, who might take it with some milk or honey and some bread. Then the work would begin. If the family was rich enough and the farm wasn’t in need of their help, the sons might be sent to a local Kirk parish school to learn English, Latin, and maybe a trade. The girls could be sent to small women’s classes to learn the finer parts of sewing, cooking, and weaving, but those were skills that could be easily learned in the home. Largely, education among the average Highlander took a back seat to tending the farm and family.

The men and boys would go tend the animals again, butcher meat, work the fields, fix roofs, hunt, fish, and other physical labor. The women and girls would make candles, sew, prepare food for winter, do laundry, and help in the fields when needed. Keeping the farm and home in running order was a task for the whole family.

Lunch might be an oatcake with salted meat and cheese. Wild berries would be added to the mix when they could be picked by the children. This meal was meant to be eaten over a short break in the fields and not savored as other meals might be. And after lunch, the work would resume until the sun began to go down and it was time for supper.

Dinner was made of whatever was fresh in the warmer months, like salmon from the river or some stew made of whatever wild game they could collect. Unless it was winter, they rarely ate any beef, saving it for the colder months when butchering livestock was a necessity. In the winter, their evening meal was made of whatever they managed to preserve like sausages and roasted turnips, a hearty stew of cured meat, onions and carrots, and the ever present oatcake. This was eaten around the table upon low stools, lit by handmade candles.

Then after a final look at the livestock, it was time to sleep, unless there was some form of entertainment to be had like a round of songs and something being played on the fiddle. The parents usually slept in some form of pallet with the children either joining them in the single bed, in a small trundle, or on the floor beside the heath.

Other Forms of Income

 

If there were too many mouths to feed on the farm, there were other ways of making a living for the middle and lower classes. Boys could be sent to work at other, larger farms, which freed up the boy’s family from the burden of keeping him fed, while ensuring he was being payed and receiving meals at his new post. Girls could be trained as maids and housekeepers, which was an attractive option for many, as they could be nearer to larger cities and a bigger pool of potential male suitors. Apprenticeships can also be bought for boys who had the endurance to be a blacksmith or horse master. The military was also an attractive option, as it offered meals, pay, and lodging. Women who lived closer to villages or larger towns could get work as a laundress, midwife if she had the skill, or a weaver.

I know, a lot to take in in such a condensed version and it’s only the smallest peek into the life of an average Scot! But I hope it’s given you a look into what it’d be like to live in Scotland. It wasn’t all riding horseback over rolling hills and dinners at the castle, but hard work and simple food to keep the body going. I thought next time I might chat a bit about a Highland wedding. Thoughts? In the meantime, you can check out our other Outlander posts HERE!

And if you like my posts, you’ll love my books. The Scottish Stone Series is a collection of tales set in Victorian England and Scotland. There are handsome Scots, sassy heiresses, British suitors, and plenty of kilts. Book one, Queen of Emeralds is available HERE while book two, The Amethyst Bride, is available HERE!

And if you love fandom jewelry, head over to this new Etsy shop HERE for some great Outlander goodies! Use the special code MIDNIGHT15 for 15% off your order! And when the necklaces are already liek $12, you’re getting a crazy deal!!

Outlander Season 3- “Voyager” Hopes

This post had been up before, almost a year ago, but it seems like there are a lot of people here for a visit today! Let’s bring this oldie but goodie back for a final chat before season 3 begins!

Spoilers to the Max!

Caution: This contains Outlander season 3/Voyager Spoilers! Read no further if you haven’t read the the third Outlander series book!

Now that you’ve been warned, are you ready to talk about Voyager and what might come in season three of Outlander on Starz?

We give the show a lot of love, but thought it might be time to talk about the books this week on Outlander Saturday! Since Sarah hasn’t read past book two, I’m here to chat it up with you about my favorite parts in Voyager and what I’m looking forward to seeing in season three on television.

A final reminder, if you hate spoilers, don’t read any further.

♥Jamie’s return to Lallybroch

It’s going to be sad, seeing Jamie wounded and hiding in Dun Bonnet’s Cave for so many years with only a few books to keep him company. As you probably read on our Legends of Outlander post, there was a real-live man named James Fraser who hid in a care and was nicknamed Dun Bonnet by the cap he wore. Nice connection, Diana!I love seeing history come to life and see how things connect. Something I’m not too thrilled about seeing it when little Fergus get’s caught up in the traitor madness and looses his crafty little hand. I assume more than one tear shall be shed for our tiny adopted Fraser.

♥Friends Foreverrrrr

Y’all know that this relationship is one for the ages. I’m not saying it’s romantic, you know Jamie only has eternal eyes for Claire, but his friendship with Lord John Grey is going to be one of the cornerstones for the series, moving forward. Without Lord John Grey, Jamie’s time in prison, and his later reunion with his biological son, might never be possible. Although, it looks like they’re setting it up to be more romantic in the show than it was in the books, something I’m not really into, as I think their complicated friendship in the series was compelling and deep. I almost feel like making it sound like a torrid love affair, like in some other blog posts and news stories, cheapens their dynamic relationship. If only the show series could do a chapter an episode!

♥Meeting Geneva

This is going to be tough for all those who love Claire and Jamie. I’m going to be honest, I think Geneva is a grade A asshole. Blackmailing Jamie into sex was a low blow and the man’s life has been tough enough. I know I’ll have a rage stroke when she throws out the “bang me or I’ll scream rape” card. At least Jamie can see some joy in the terrible union by his son William grow for a few years. But seeing as how happy he was knowing Claire was pregnant when she left, It’ll be tough seeing him watch his child from afar.

♥Baby Jamie

Jamie and his interactions with his secret son is going to be interesting. Their sweet doings takes up a good chunk of book, and for good reason. We all read, and saw, how into being a father Jamie was when Claire was pregnant with Faith and how important it was for Claire to go back to Frank for the safety of their unborn child. It’s going to be bittersweet to see how young Willie sees a father figure in Jamie and Jamie longs to be close to a child he never thought he’d have, after Claire’s leaving. Their bond in the books might be hard to portray on screen, but Starz has done an awesome job, so far.

♥The Highlight of the Year

I know for a damn fact that I’m not the only person who ugly cried when Claire went through the stones and later learned that Jamie was alive all along. While I understand that she needed to go for her own safety, it’s like she’s still twenty years too late to their reunion. I’m already preparing myself for the Kim Kardashian-like sobs when she finally sees him in the print shop. I’m also dying to see how well Jamie aged. I’m guessing it’s like a fine, beautifully kilted, wine… although he’ll be unkilted for a lot of the season, and not always in the fun way. The fact that we’ll probably have to wait a few episodes for this glorious meeting adds a certain level of delicious suspense. At least it’ll be a smoother journey for Claire, as Roger and Bree help her get the cash and clothes necessary for a successful jaunt through time. Speaking of Roger and Bree, watching them say goodbye to Claire will be another depressing sight. But, hey, Claire did right by her kid and her promise to Jamie, so she deserves to have some Highlander goodness up in her petticoats.

♥The Scorned Second Wife

Dis Bitch is right. Ya’ll probably know that I feel Laoghaire is a dirty home wrecking hussy and no one deserves to get lumpy and gross in their old age more than her…well, except for Black Jack Randall… not that he lives long enough for that. Well, anyways, her coming out of the woodwork again to claim Jamie as her rightful husband is something I’m looking forward too. Like, I get how she saw Jamie as the one that got away but, damn girl, have some self respect! I wouldn’t tie myself for a man who was constantly wishing I was someone else, no matter how hot he was. BTW I’m all sour grapes on how Jenny lashes out at Claire and rats to Loaghaire, even thought Claire told her the potato-planting key to Lallybroch’s survival. I hope Loaghaire’s gun-toting dramatics are just as wild on the screen as they are on the page.

♥High Seas Misadventure

Poor Jamie can’t catch a break. He, along with Claire and Marsali, go to rescue Ian and he’s stuck vomiting with seasickness while Claire is basically kidnapped by the Porpoise, because the ocean has never been kind to Jamie. Like, universe, give the man a break! All he wants is to live the quiet life and plant some crops and make sweet love to his new found wife, not be held captive and taken towards prison. At least he’s conveniently shipwrecked near Claire. Small victories. I’m curious to see how this will play out since, in the book, their oceanic struggles is a large chunk of action.

♥The Return of Geillis

Gonna be real, I’m pumped for the return of Geillis. I know she’s a murderer, adulteress, and all around baddie, but I’m really excited to see her return in all her crazy glory. You have to admire her vicious tenacity and the way she unraveled thousands of years of legends and myths to learn about time travel. Sure, she could have gone around without human sacrifices, but I admire a bitch with flair. I mean, if she had really been killed before having her son, a certain green-eyed man wouldn’t be able to grace us with his presence! So, sacrifice away, you gloriously creepy time traveler, you!

Yeah, I know this isn’t every tasty morsel of Voyager goodness, only some of my personal favs. Tell me in the comments, what are you most excited for in season three? And for more Outlander fun, visit our Outlander Page HERE!

And if you love my Outlander articles, you’ll love my historical romance series that’s set in Victorian Scotland and England. It delves into the complicated world of the Scottish highlands as they reestablish themselves and the clan systems along with a heavy dose of romance. Book one, Queen of Emeralds, is available HERE while book two, The Amethyst Bride is available HERE!

And if you love fandom jewelry, head over to this new Etsy shop HERE for some great Outlander goodies! Use the special code MIDNIGHT15 for 15% off your order!

Scottish Sorcery

Scotland has had some problems with witchcraft for years! All those pesky sorceresses have been poisoning the wells, killing off the livestock, and spreading the plague since the beginning of time! But when did witches and the devil’s brides really come to light in Scotland? When did the downfall of women like Geillis Duncan begin? Gather ’round, fellow Sassenachs and I’ll tell you the story of witchcraft in Scotland…and it doesn’t begin with ancient druids…

Picture it, Scotland, 1563. The crops are failing, the animals are sick, and the children are all being born weak. Things aren’t looking too good and they can’t figure out why. They’ve been to church, pay their taxes, and try to be good people. So, obviously, it must be the work of the devil. And the historic tools of the devil’s work? Wayward women, who are often swayed by promises of beauty, wealth, and the power sorcery can provide.   That gave birth to the Witchcraft Act of 1563, which was based on several others put into action in England. It made witchcraft and associating with witches a capital offense. Sound familiar?

There were a few witchcraft trials here and there in Scotland, but the North Berwick trials from 1590 to 1592 put them all to shame. They involved nobles, various countries, and 70 victims who were put to death…one such person was named…Geillis Duncan.

I know this might not be a shocker if you like to dabble in history, ever gave Geillis a google search, or read one of our previous Outlander posts about the real history mentioned in the books. But Geillis was a real, flesh and blood, woman whom the book character was based on. First, let’s talk about how these trials first started and then get into how Geillis got roped in.

The real trials began with King James of Scotland, who had been very nonchalant about earlier talks of witchcraft in Scotland. But rough sailing in 1589 changed all that. There were so many violent storms during his way to pickup his new wife Anne of Denmark, and on his way home, that he thought it would only be the work of witches. In his mind, no one else would dare mess up his blessed nuptials.

I mean, as anyone who has ever planned a wedding knows, it’s stressful enough without witches ruining your big day. And since James had the pleasure of seeing a few witch trials in Denmark and learning how their tried their witches, he knew he needed to clean up his country. So he dipped back to the Witchcraft Act of 1563 and pushed it to those in power, giving way to the North Berwick trials, which James couldn’t help but attend.

With the green light from the king, there were arrests left and right. The charges, beside overall sorcery, were things like poison, trying to sink the king’s ship, killing a neighbor, and overthrowing the monarchy with help from the devil. Getting someone arrested for witchcraft was as easy as a pointed finger and a bad word. Hmm…reminds me of someone…

Anyways, once someone in North Berwick was accused of dancing with the devil, the torture would begin. I’m not going to be graphic, but in evolved poking, pricking, beating, drawing, and many other violent ways where the victim would be basically forced to not only confess to witchcraft, but also name the other members in their “coven”. This created a domino effect that ended up with even more people being tried.

Geillis Duncan was nothing but a lowly maid in Tranent when she was arrested. Her employer accused her of having magical healing powers and generally sneaking around to do the devil’s bidding. What followed were weeks of torture, the finding of a so-called “Witches Mark”, and her naming more than 7 fellow witches, who were also tried and put to death by hanging.

Geillis Duncan’s confession

Then there were the Great Scottish Witch Hunts of 1597, 1628, 1649, and 1661. Each time, hundreds of accused witches would be arrested, tried for their supposed crimes, and then put to death. Torture was throughout, and the loose tongues brought on by hot pokers and pliers resulted in more “confessions” and accusations. In 1597 almost 400 people were put in trial throughout Scotland with around 200 being executed. In the last hunt, in 1661, nearly 700 people were tried in a 16 month period.

By the time of the last witch trial in 1727, between 4,000 and 6,000 people were tried with around 2,000 actually being executed. It declined mainly for two reasons, the first being that a larger portion of the population was getting educated. The second was when Scotland became a commonwealth to England in 1652, which largely took the power of the smaller Scottish courts…not that it really made much of a huge difference at first. The hysteria over witchcraft really came to an official end in 1763 when the British government repealed the original Witchcraft act of 1573, making the whole “death to witches” thing legally impossible. Good news, right, Claire?

Finally, what made someone a prime target to be tried as the devil’s mistress in those days? Certainly not just a rocking’ bod and a soul you’re willing to bargain for. A witches’ mark  was one of the first things the captors searched for. Now these weren’t all forms of birthmarks, but if there was a raised feature on your body like a mole, wart, or even ac actual third nipple, they would claim it was the teat from which you fed your familiar, the personal helper of the accused. Usually, these perfectly normal marks would be pricked to check for bleeding, since everyone knows that black cats and crows only drink blood.

And not just birthmarks were in the spotlight, your ability to say certain prayers would be tested as well as your ability to handle holy items like crucifixes and the sacraments. They would also take a look at your livestock. If you had a shifty looking rooster or an owl roosted in the barn that couldn’t say The Lord’s Prayer, they were probably in league with the devil, thus helping you in your evil schemes. And if you had the misfortune to have a spouse die? Obviously that would be a sign that you’ve killed them off. And finally, after all the torture and seeing if you died when thrown in a river or hung from a tree, they would ask again the most important question…

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That’s all for this week! I hope you liked reading a bit more about the witch trials in Scotland and you come back soon to see what else we have cooking for season three. If you want to read our other posts, or even take our Outlander witch quiz, click HERE!

 

And did you see our product review this morning? This great shop Fangirl Pixie Jar is selling Outlander, and other fandom, necklaces for only $12.35 and that’s without the 15% discount that comes only from us! To see more, click HERE!

My blog partner Sarah’s latest book just came out and it’s my fav of her college romance series. So if you like steamy stories, bad boys with hearts of gold, street racing, true love, and some action, click HERE to preorder Third Wheel now!

Finally, I personally have two romance novels out that are set in Scotland! The third book will be out soon, but the first two are all set for your reading pleasure. Queen of Emeralds is available HERE and The Amethyst Bride can be picked up HERE!

 

Fangirl Pixie Jar

We’ve both been so busy lately, we haven’t had the chance to introduce you all to any new shops to try! So we’re very pleased to start again with a fun little shop called Fangirl Pixie Jar. It’s run by the lovely Mireille, who specializes in fandom and book themed jewelry that encompasses such books like The Hunger Games, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and The Lunar Chronicles. But if none of those tickles your fancy, don’t worry because she also does custom work! And, of course, she has our fav…Outlander! To get ready for season three, she’s sent us both a surprise necklace. Now let’s take a closer look!

♥Kelsey’s Thoughts♥

So the necklace I was lucky enough to receive says one of my favorite phrases, ‘Jesus H. Roosevelt Christ’! We all know and love it as Claire Fraser’s go-to saying in times of excitement, confusion, or frustration. Some fans have even taken to saying it themselves! But it’s not an obvious, flashing beacon to everyone, but a lesser known one that’s almost like a secret message to let other fans know that I love Outlander. But that’s perfect for me, as I’m not one to go over the top with my obsessions…usually.

The necklace itself if beautifully made with a great filigree frame that really brings in the feel of 18th century Scotland. The script used is also fun and the watercolor dragonfly is a delicate and pretty nod to Dragonfly in Amber. With a strong, adjustable chain, light metal body, and streamline design, it’s great for everyday wear for those of us who want to show off our fav fandom without being over the top. Really, the chain being so sturdy is important, as I have a toddler who’s always stealing my jewelry or playing with them while they’re still around my neck!

At $12.35, this necklace is a total steal! Really, I expected it to be so much more in the shop, or at least cheaply made for the great price, but I was so wrong. This necklace is an amazing deal and you can get one for yourself, your BFF, your mom, your neighbor, and your book club buddy without breaking the bank. You can order yours HERE in time for the season three premier!

♥Sarah’s Thoughts♥

My necklace says ‘Sassenach’, the more well known phrase that makes us all swoon when said by a certain red-headed Scot! The pendent is really fancy and sturdy, but not heavy at all. I wore it all day today with no irritation, which is important if you have sensitive skin like me. Although, as you can see below, I was wearing a high-necked shirt. The chain is adjustable so you can change the length, which I totally love. It fits Outlander perfectly, as it’s solid but feminine, just like Claire!

The picture within the pendent is centered perfectly and appears very delicate with the floral border around the words. I also like the fancy script and the fact that it looks handwritten. The only thing that could make this piece better, not that it really needs anything, is if the flowers came in purple like the Scottish heather we see within the series. But the multi-colored flowers are also fun and whimsical.

This necklace is also only $12.35, can you believe it! For how well it’s made, I also wouldn’t guess it has such a great price. You can order your own HERE! While you’re at it, get Kelsey’s necklace for a friend. It’s like having BFF necklaces, but so much better.
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Overall, Fangirl Pixie Jar has something for everyone in your life, and there are even some steampunk pieces if you’re looking to really spice up your wardrobe!

And there’s something else to get excited about…we have a special 15% off code for Fangirl Pixie Jar! It’s MIDNIGHT15

You can see these and more over at Fangirl Pixie Jar’s shop HERE
Follow the store on Facebook HERE
Like them on Instagram HERE
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See the rest of our product reviews HERE and check out our Outlander posts HERE!

Oh, The Places Claire’ll Go!

If you haven’t read Voyager or have any issue with spoilers in Dr. Seuss form, don’t read any further! Unless you want a chance to win a WeeBox (a subscription box from Scotland) then just scroll down very fast until you see a picture of a purple box!

You’ve found some old papers!
You shall go through the stone.
You’re off to to find Jamie! But you must go alone!

You have old coins in your pocket.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer through time
any direction you choose.
You’ve said ‘goodbye’ to Brianna. And all that you know. Now YOU are the lass who’ll decide where to go.

In Edinburgh you’ll look up and down streets. Look ‘em over with care. About some you will say, “I don’t choose to go there.”
With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet, you’re too smart to go down any not-so-good street.

And when the printshop decides to go and burn down.
In that case, of course,
you’ll head straight out of town.

It’ll be safer there
in the wide open air                                                                                                                    where if your name’s not ‘Malcom’ no one will care!

Out there things can happen and frequently do
to people who have come
through the stones just like you.

And when things start to happen, don’t worry. Don’t stew.
Just go right along,
to Selkie Island with you!

OH!
THE PLACES YOU’LL GO!

You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights! You’ll join the booze smugglers who who print pages at night.

You won’t lag behind, because you’ll have the speed.

You’ll pass the whole clan and you’ll soon take the lead.                                             Wherever you sail, you’ll be best of the best
Wherever you go, you will heal all the rest.

Except when you don’t. Because, sometimes, you won’t. Because sometimes the sailboats just won’t stay afloat.

I’m sorry to say so but, sadly, it’s true that kidnaps
and redcoats can happen to you.

You can get all hung up on the Porpoise’s bow.
And the Artemis will sail on. You’ll be left…just for now.

You’ll come down from the ship, after jumping off the deck.
And the chances are, then,
that you’ll be shipwrecked.

And when you’re in a shipwreck, you’re not in for much fun. Un-shipwrecking yourself
is not easily done.

You will come to a place where the streets are not marked. Some windows are lighted. But mostly they’re darked.
A place called Rose Hall where you might find your kin!
Do you dare to stay out? Do you dare to go in?

How much can you lose? How much can you win? When wee Ian is locked with the witch who loves sin.

and IF you go in, should you turn left or right…
or right-and-three-quarters? Or, maybe, not quite? Or go around back and sneak in from behind?
Simple it’s not, I’m  afraid you will find,
for a mind-maker-upper to make up his mind when Geillis is trying to travel through time.

You can get so confused
that you’ll start in to race
down long wiggled roads at a break-necking pace and grind on for miles across weirdish wild space, headed, I fear, toward a most useless place.

The Waiting Place…

…for people just waiting.
Waiting for a ship to go
or a redcoat to come, or a wife to go
or the war to come or the clans to go or the future to come, or the snow to snow or waiting around for a Yes or No
or waiting for their hair to grow. Everyone is just waiting.

Waiting for the Jacobites to fight
or waiting for wind to sail like flight
or waiting around for Samhain night
or waiting, perhaps, for their Uncle James or a some medicinal plants, or a list of clan names
or a string of pearls, or a pair of pants
or a wig with curls, or Another Chance. Everyone is just waiting.

NO!
That’s not for you!

Somehow you’ll escape
all that waiting and staying. You’ll find the bright places
where the land of brave will soon be free.

With banner flip-flapping,
once  more you’ll sail fast!
Ready for anything under the sky.
Ready because you’re that kind of a lass!

Oh, the places you’ll go! There is fun to be done!
There are witches to kill. There are wars to be won. And the magical things you can do through the stones
that will remind you of the future, where you find Geillis’s bones.
Sassenach! You’ll be famous as famous can be,
It’ll be like when you faked sorcery for Jamie to be free.

Except when you fail. Because, sometimes, you will.

I’m afraid that some times you’ll still have to kill. Just like in wartimes

when soldiers all fell, you’ll be in charge of bringing sick men back from hell.

All Alone!

Whether you like it or not, Alone will be something you’ll be quite a lot.

And when you’re alone, there’s a very good chance
you’ll meet things that scare you right out of your pants. There are some, down the road between hither and yon, that can scare you so much you won’t want to go on.

But on you will go
though the weather be foul.
On you will go
though your enemies prowl. On you will go
for there’s the two of you, now.

Onward up many
a frightening creek,
though your arms may get sore and your lies may grow weak.

On and on you will hike.
And I know you’ll hike far
and face up to your problems whatever they are.

You’ll get mixed up, of course,
as you already know.
You’ll get mixed up
with many strange birds as you go. So be sure when you step.

Step with care and great tact
and remember that Life’s
a Great Balancing Act.
Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.
And never mix up your right foot with your left.

And will you succeed?
Yes! You will, indeed!
(98 and 3⁄4 percent guaranteed.)

CLAIRE, YOU’LL MOVE MOUNTAINS!

So…

be your name Beuchamp or Fraser or Bray or Jesus Roosevelt Christ O’Shea, you’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!

Fraser’s Ridge is waiting. So…get on your way!

Think that was a fun little post? Check out our other Outlander articles and quizzes HERE!

Also, we’ve partnered with our friends over at WeeBox for a special giveaway! If you can remember, we’ve done a review of their Scottish subscription box in the past and gave it our seal of approval (which you can read about HERE). Now, they’ve been nice enough to give us one secret WeeBox to give away to one of you! Want a surprise box of Scottish goodies, straight from Jamie’s homeland? Then click HERE to enter. Don’t worry, you don’t have to buy anything to enter! And if you want a guaranteed Outlander Season 3 WeeBox, you can order it HERE, but hurry! They’re going fast.

PS-if you like my Outlander posts, you’ll love my books! I have a Scottish historical romance series titled The Scottish Stone Series. Book one, Queen of Emeralds, is the thrilling tale of a British lady’s fight for freedom and the Scot who will either save or ruin her and you can get that HERE. The Amethyst Bride, book two which is available HERE, follows a woman’s life as she decides between the British gentleman who can offer her the world and the Scottish warrior who can offer her passion.

But if contemporary romances are more your thing, Sarah and I will deliver!

The Non-Disclosure Agreement is available HERE

Craving Bad is available HERE

Elton Hall Chronicles: First Semester is available HERE

Elton Hall Chronicles: Second Snowfall is available HERE

Win a WeeBox

The lovely founder of WeeBox, Amy McCusker has invited us to host a special giveaway in honor of Outlander‘s upcoming third season. She’s given us a surprise WeeBox to give to one lucky Outlander fan who’d love a piece of Scotland!Jamie gets it. Are you just as excited? Now, if you don’t know what WeeBox is, let’s chat so you can get just as pumped as our favorite kilted hero.

WeeBox is a subscription box that is filled with all sorts of wonderful mystery items, straight from Scotland! Sometimes they have snack boxes with goodies and treats from all around the country and sometimes they have special boxes that highlight the magic of special events like the Highland Games. We’ve received the special Valentines WeeBoxes in the past and thought they were adorable! If you’d like to see what we got, click HERE!

Now…on to the GIVEAWAY!

When you get a WeeBox, you get a bit of Scotland. Each piece is carefully selected to highlight the best of what that wonderful country has to offer. And to win a surprise box of your own filled with mystery items, there are many ways to win. Just click HERE and see how many easy ways you can enter this week-long giveaway and rack up points to win! Again, just click HERE and win a shot at a free WeeBox!

Now, do you want to be guaranteed a very special, excluding, fantastic, amazing, bonny WeeBox filled with Outlander goodies? Or do you have a friend who is struggling to make it through Droughtlander? Then click HERE to ensure you receive a box containing Outlandish fun that comes from Jamie’s homeland. So far, we know that the box will include a lovely artwork of standing stones by Kevin Hunter, a book of quotes, and a pestle and mortar set that Claire would be proud to use. Remember, these are only 3 of the special items in the Outlander WeeBox.

So good luck, all you Outlander lovers, if you decide to enter our giveaway. And if you plan on ordering the limited edition Outlander WeeBox to ensure some Scottish joy in September, let us know how you like it!

• You can visit WeeBox’s homepage HERE to learn more about the company
• Follow them on Instagram HERE
• Like them on Facebook HERE
• And Follow them on Twitter HERE

Which Claire Are You?

We’ve given you many quizzes (that you can see by clicking HERE) but we haven’t given you this! Claire lives many lives, a WWII nurse, dutiful wife, feisty wife, Scottish lady, French court member, and so many more we won’t name because many of you lovely readers are still traveling though the books.

So pick some numbers and find out which of Claire’s lives you would live! Do you belong in high society France? As lady of Lallybroch? In the 1940s in post-war Europe? Or maybe in the season 3 location? (PS if you don’t know where the cast of characters go in season 3, this quiz will contain a teensy bit of spoilers)

Remember, take note of each number you choose and choose honestly!

1. Which of the above outfits would you wear for a first date?

1. #1 since I expect to be wined and dined.
2. #2 so I can have something comfortable for a night on the town.
3. #3 since I’m a fan of functional fashion and want to be active on my date.
4. #4 because I want to be cozy and cute.

2. It’s time to pack a bag and go on vacation! What luxurious place will you go?

1. Florence, Italy. The food and architecture are to die for!
2. New York City, USA. Shows, dancing, music…it has it all!
3. A cruise around the Mediterranean. Lots to see and do!
4. Switzerland. There’s culture and some killer mountains to tackle!

3. Which of these is your dream job?

1. Fashion Designer
2. Musician
3. Some Kind of Scientist
4. Animal Rescue Specialist

4. Time for a stiff drink!  Pick something that packs a punch.

1. Champagne in a gold-rimmed glass
2. Between the Sheets-a refreshing, citrus brandy and rum concoction
3. A Pina Colata with fresh fruits
4. Blue Blazer-a form of hot toddy that’s meant to be sipped

5. Now, how about a drink to hydrate after last night?

1. Hot Chocolate is always tasty
2. Just a soda, thanks
3. Fruit juice would be nice
4. Just a cup of tea, please

6. You’re shopping for a house, which one speaks to you?

1. A lovely chateau with lots of character
2. A perfect suburban home in a good school district
3. A house on the water, complete with a dock
4. A charming historic home with a garden

7. It’s raining out, so you pick out a book to read. Which do you choose?

1. The Counte of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
2. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
3. Odyssey by Homer
4. The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien

8. Which dog would you like to adopt?

1. A fluffy spaniel
2. A playful beagle
3. A golden retriever
4. A border collie

9. Pick an above pair of shoes for summer!

1. #1. Those classic lace ones!
2. #2. Those pretty blue pair!
3. #3. The brown ones for daily wear!
4. #4. The stitched set for adorable comfort!

10. What kind of flower would you most like to receive?

1. Pale pink dog roses
2. White gardenias
3. Yellow Gorses
4. Colorful hibiscus

11. Finally, pick the qualities you’d like in a man!

1. A great sense of style and some cash to back it up!
2. A stable fellow with a good job and a mind for family.
3. A strong man who’s good with his hands.
4. A love of adventure and great sense of direction.

All done! Now match up what numbers you got the most of with the key below. If you have a tie, I guess you get two live two lives!

Mostly #1s-You Belong in France

They don’t call it “French Kissing” for nothing! So pucker up and get your corset on for a French adventure that may involve more than a few assassination attempts.

Mostly #2s-You Belong in the 1940’s

With your timeless taste and fondness for the classics, you belong in the 1940s. Who doesn’t love those flowing dresses and the old school ways of courtship?

Mostly #3s-You Belong in Jamaica

Set sail for romance and warmer seas because you belong in Jamaica! Prepare for fancy parties, voodoo curses, and a long voyage. Hope you don’t get sea sick!

Mostly #4s-You Belong in Scotland

Turns out you’re a fan of the great outdoors and amazing accents! Much like Claire, you’re about to live a life full of kilts, whisky, and castles. Cheers to you!

Like this quiz? Head over to our Outlander Saturday page HERE for more!

PS-if you like my Outlander posts, you’ll love my books! I have a Scottish historical romance series titled The Scottish Stone Series. Book one, Queen of Emeralds, is the thrilling tale of a British lady’s fight for freedom and the Scot who will either save or ruin her and you can get that HERE. BTW it’s now on sale for 99cents!! The Amethyst Bride, book two which is available HERE, follows a woman’s life as she decides between the British gentleman who can offer her the world and the Scottish warrior who can offer her passion.

But if contemporary romances are more your thing, Sarah and I will deliver!

The Non-Disclosure Agreement is available HERE

Craving Bad is available HERE

Elton Hall Chronicles: First Semester is available HERE

Elton Hall Chronicles: Second Snowfall is available HERE

Why We Love Outlander?

I know a lot of you started with the books close to 20 years ago and then there are some, like me, who are new to the series. So what about the series, the show, the world…completely takes us away? I’ve talked to many fans and I think I have some of the answers.

1. Jamie Alexander Macolm MacKenzie Fraser. There is not enough time nor enough space to talk about how amazing Jamie is, so I’m going to briefly summarize it. He is the man we all wish we could marry, dream about sleeping with, and hope to wake up to. He can plan an elaborate war to try and save his people, while keeping track of your cycle. And why is that? Because he cares. He is a perfect mix of manly strength, sensitivity, and kilted fashion. Jamie always says the right thing (to bed or to sleep) and he does it with bedroom eyes, a smirk, and complete seriousness at the same time.

2. Claire Fraser. Jamie wouldn’t be able to be himself without the woman who makes it possible. I don’t think he’d be the man he is if he were with…I don’t know, maybe Leghair (Laoghaire). But what about Claire makes the series. It isn’t just Catriona’s portrayal, which was perfect, it is the way Claire lives her life. She fights for what she believes in, who she believes in, and plows through any obstacle. Somehow, she manages, in my opinion, to remain loyal to Frank and Jamie in her own way. We could argue about this, but just appreciate the woman who kept both wedding rings on because of how she cared for each and the life she had with them. She also isn’t satisfied with fine. Claire was an army nurse and could have stayed as such. Nope, that wasn’t enough for her. She becomes a badass surgeon.

3. This may just be my opinion, but I think the history makes the series better. A lot of what we’re reading about really happened, is based off of real situations in the time period, or are loosely based off legends or stories. Diana researched every single thing about this series and I respect that but it also gives a magical story about traveling stones some authenticity. If the stones could exist in this world, then who are we to keep from caressing every giant stone in Scotland? I think the history gives the series a realism that is often neglected for artistic liberties. Also, Jamie Fraser was a real person!

4. The side characters are not forgotten and brilliantly portrayed. There are characters throughout the series that are able to make an impact with such little roles. Who doesn’t love Angus and Rupert? Personally, they distracted me so much I would look for them in the background because their comedic timing was perfect. What about Jenny and Ian? Jenny had some of the best lines in the whole thing if you ask me. How about Louise and her “honey pot.” We will never be able to look at Winnie the Pooh the same way.

5. But one of the best things about this series is Murtagh. Now, bear with me here. I’m in love with Dougal, most people worship Jamie, and I’d say we’re all right. But there is something about Murtagh. You have to love a man who carries a torch for a woman for as long as he did. Snape loved Lily for just as long…yet he treated her son like crap. Murtagh, he cared for Jamie like his own son and didn’t despise him on principal. He trusts Jamie, he’s good to Claire, and he treats other people the same. He makes slurry comments about the king on his “throne” just like he does a bum. He is the most realistic character in the story. His reliability, his heart, his AMAZING dancing skills, and his determination make him one of the most amazing parts of this story.

6. The locations. I have personally been to Scotland and it is a beautiful place but that’s not it. The story travels the world. Since most people read to be taken somewhere else, why not read a series that literally travels the world. Go to France, Italy, Scotland, America, Jamaica…so many places. It’s all in this series, it’s all researched, and it’s all beautifully done. Not to mention, it’s beautiful to watch on TV when so many of us don’t have the chance to visit all of these places. Well, we’d never be able to visit the time period so it’s a nice snapshot.

7. The fans. I really feel there is a sisterhood of fans. Yes, men are included too and we’ll give them a pass this time. However, it’s such a great feeling knowing there are so many women who not only love to talk about what men wear under their kilts, knee porn, and the elaborate ways we’d like to kill Laoghaire, but you are all also there for each other. I’ve seen so many women ask for prayers, or share their news and there are so many beautiful comments. Diana may have created this world we’d all give up almost anything to live in, but she also created a group of people drawn together by mutual love. There are few fandoms, if any, that even compare to the power and strength that comes with the Outlander fans.

About the Author

Sarah Fischer is a background investigator and a romance novelist in her spare time. Her first book, First Semester, follows Violet as she navigates the halls of college, and the hearts of a few men who catch her eye. As of now, it is 99 cents. Book 2, Second Snowfall is also out now if you felt like binge reading.

Purchase Links

First Semester- https://www.amazon.com/First-Semester-Elton-Hall-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B06XT99LM3

Second Snowfall- https://www.amazon.com/Second-Snowfall-Elton-Hall-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B0733MKZ45

If contemporary isn’t your thing, I don’t blame you. I worshiped only historical romances for a long time. Within the last three years I’ve really begun appreciating the contemporary world. But…other than Outlander, if you’re in a historical mood, Kelsey McKnight, my blog mate, has a historical series that takes place in England and Scotland as two ladies fight for their lives and the men they’d like to run through the heather with.

Purchase Links

Queen of Emeralds- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XT66GGR

The Amethyst Bride- https://www.amazon.com/Amethyst-Bride-Scottish-Stone-Book-ebook/dp/B072188BFX

  

The Ultimate ‘Voyager’ Book Quiz

Droughtlander will end soon, so you know what that means! Time to prepare for season three! And what better way to do that than to brush up on your Voyager knowledge with a handy little quiz? Now, if you haven’t read Voyager, this WILL contain spoilers!!! So keep track of your answers and good luck!

Aaaaaaand begin!

1.What shocking thing did Fergus arrange for Ian to do in Edinburgh?

• Lose his virginity to a prostitute
• Kill a man who wronged Claire
• Confess his love to the daughter of an English officer
• Steal gold for his passage to the Caribbean

2.What did Geillis collect while living in Rose Hall and have displayed for her guests?

• African fertility idols
• Portraits of Scottish monarchs
• African voodoo books
• Maps of Scotland

3.What flower does Claire bring when she visits baby Faith’s grave?

• A pink tulip
• A white rose
• A pink daffodils
• A purple rose

4.What stone did Jamie swallow and later show to Lord John Grey?

• A sapphire
• A ruby
• A diamond
• An amethyst

5.Whose dress does Marsali borrow to get married in?

• Claire’s
• Arabella’s
• Ermenegilda’s
• Mamasita’s

6.What was Frank singing in the shower one morning when Claire was tending to baby Brianna?

• God Save the Queen
• I Vow to Thee, My Country
• Rule, Britannia
• Old Brigade

7.What animal does Jamie say in an ill omen during childbirth?

• Ravens
• Cats in the house
• Crows
• Snakes in the kitchen

8.What street did Claire and Brianna live on in Boston?

• Furey Street
• Lake Way
• Calliday Lane
• Ceder Street

9.What was the name of Mr. Willoughby’s trained bird?

• Li Wei
• Ping An
• Wang Li
• Min Ping

10.What gift did Jamie give Claire to replace her pearl necklace?

• A black coral fish pendent
• A ruby on a black satin ribbon
• A set of pearl drop earrings
• A golden swan necklace

11.What Wizard of Oz character did Claire say Jamie resembled?

• The Wizard
• The Tin Man
• The Scarecrow
• The Lion

12.What does Ishmael say Scotsman sound like when they talk?

• River water beating against rocks
• Fighting dogs
• Drunk Englishmen
• Loud jungle birds

13.Who helped carry Jamie off the field at Culloden?

• Ewan Cameron and Iain MacKinnon
• Lord Melton and a British soldier
• Hammish MacGregor and John MacTavish
• He doesn’t know because he is unconscious

14.What happened to Reverend Archibald Campbell’s sister Margaret Campbell in Jamaica?

• She was raped and left for dead by the British
• She died of Typhus she caught from Geillis’s slaves
• She left with the slaves when Rose Hall burned
• She was taken back to Scotland by her brother

15.How many Boutons has Mother Hildegarde owned in her lifetime?

• One
• Sixteen
• Fifteen
• Three

16What wild animal did Ishmael and some other men save Claire from near the end of the book?

• A crocodile
• A boar
• A Boa Constrictor
• A Poisonous Sea Urchin

17.What does Claire say kills lice?

• Washing your hair in vinegar
• A sprinkle of fresh ginger
• Soaking your scalp in sea water
• Dried sea bird dropping mixed with rum

18.What was Jared’s plantation home in Jamaica Called?

• The Sugar Bay Estate
• The Sunset House
• Blue Mountain House
• The Sugar Cane Inn

19.Who told Claire that Jamie had a son, Willie?

• Lord John
• Laoghaire
• Mr. Willoughby
• Captain Jacobs

20.What did Mrs. Abernathy take from Jamie when he and Claire met her the first time?

• A lock of his hair
• A Picture of Brianna
• A bag of Jacobite gold
• A strip of bloodied plaid

That’s it! The quiz is over and all answers are FINAL! So check your answers with the answer key below and see how well you know Voyager.

1.Lose his Virginity 2. Fertility Idols 3. Pink Tulip 4. Sapphire 5. Ermenegilda’s

6. Rule Britannia 7. Ravens 8. Furey 9. Ping An 10. Black Coral Fish

11. The Cowardly Lion 12. Fighting Dogs 13. Ewan Cameron and Iain MacKinnon 14. Left with the slaves 15. Sixteen

16. Crocodile 17. Vinegar 18. The Blue Mountain House 19. Lord John 20. A Picture of Brianna

0-5 Right Answers

Well…it might be time to read Voyager again before season 3 comes out! But don’t worry, taking another trip with Jamie and Claire is hardly a punishment.

6-13 Right Answers

Someone’s been keeping up with the books! You’re doing really well at the little details and Jamie would be verra proud.

14-20 Right Answers

Wow! Either you’ve recently read Voyager or your Diana herself! Wait…DG, is that you??

That’s all for this installment of Outlander Saturday. We hope you’ve enjoyed this quiz and remember you can take the rest of our quizzes and read the rest of our Outlandish articles HERE!

And if you enjoy my posts, maybe you’ll enjoy my books. My historical romances, The Scottish Stone Series, is in full swing and ties history facts with the romance of the highlands. You can get Queen of Emeralds (book 1) HERE and The Amethyst Bride (book 2) HERE. But if contemporary is your fav, then check out my author page HERE to see all the fun!