Books

Love ‘Outlander’? These Scottish Historical Fiction Novels Have it All: Bagpipes, Castles, Kilts

Filled with delightful drama and dazzling details, these epic books are must-reads

Comments

As soon as you mention historical fiction books set in Scotland, the first one that comes to mind for nearly everyone is Outlander—and with good reason! Filled with adventure, romance and magic, Diana Gabaldon’s series is a juggernaut. But there are so many more books set in this stunning country. With its rugged, romantic landscape, its rich history filled with rebellion, conflict and Celtic lore, not to mention the kilts, the brawny men and that distinct accent, Scotland is the perfect backdrop for a variety of novels—from romance and mystery to stories about heroes and heroines—that allow readers to escape into a world vastly different than their own. 

If you’re intrigued by life as a royal, check out The King’s Messenger by Susanna Kearsley, set in a 17th-century Scottish court. One reader describes it as “wonderfully interesting and firmly grounded in facts.” In the mood for romance? Be sure to grab a copy of The Bride Chooses a Highlander by Adrienne Basso, which one reader claims is the “perfect blend of romance and suspense.” 

To discover all of our favorite historical fiction books set all over Scotland, keep scrolling! 

‘Outlander’ by Diana Gabaldon 

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon - Dell
Dell

An unforgettable romance and captivating characters abound in the first book of Diana Gabaldon’s acclaimed Outlander series, which was made into an immensely popular Starz TV show. In 1945 Scotland, former British combat nurse Claire Randall embarks on a second honeymoon with her husband. While there, she stumbles upon a standing stone in one of the ancient circles, and suddenly, she turns into a Sassenach — an “outlander” in the year 1743. Now, her only chance at survival is a handsome young Scots warrior named Jamie Fraser. What follows is a fiery battle of wills, time, hearts and, ultimately, love.

What readers are saying: “What a compelling and riveting book. This is not the first time I have read this book, but I am certainly glad I decided to read it again. Ms. Gabaldon’s writing is so fluid and smooth, bringing the Highlands to life with her vivid descriptions of the landscape. Talk about using all five senses in one’s writing—this author is a master at this.”

‘The Skylark’s Secret’ by Fiona Valpy
The Skylarks Secret by Fiona Valpy - Lake Union Publishing
Lake Union Publishing

Readers are transported back in time to 1940 in Scotland in this beautifully detailed tale. Flora Gordon and her father, the local gamekeeper, reside in the peaceful fishing town of Loch Ewe, but soon their home becomes a German target during WWII. Decades later, Flora’s daughter, Lexie Gordon, returns to Loch Ewe with a daughter of her own. As Lexie uncovers her parents’ story, she learns more about her own life.

What readers are saying: “In 2008, I made my first trip to Scotland and fell in love. I have been back several times, and Fiona’s novel not only refreshed my visual memories but also reminded me of the warmth of the Scottish people. An immersive read with a great diversity of characters.” 

‘A Bound Heart’ by Laura Frantz 

A Bound Heart by Laura Frantz - Revell
Revell

The lush landscape of 1750s Scotland comes alive in this novel about Magnus MacLeish and Lark MacDougall, who grew up together in the same castle but couldn’t be more different. Magnus is a laird and Lark is the keeper of the bees. But when Magnus’ wife passes away, the two are caught up in accusations that land them on a ship to the New World—and may bring them a chance at a new beginning. 

What readers are saying: “In her tribute to her Scottish heritage, Laura Frantz has again given us a real page-turner. I love the characters, the flow of her elegant writing style, the thrilling adventure and the solid foundation of love and faith.” 

‘The Bride Chooses a Highlander’ by Adrienne Basso 

A Bride Chooses a Highlander by Adrienne Basso - Zebra
Zebra

In 1335 Scotland, Lady Katherine McKenna is granted the rare honor of choosing her own husband. But when she finally agrees to marry, things go amiss, and Katherine is left alone in the wilds. As Laird Lachlan MacTavish rescues her, Katherine is instantly captivated. But with their clans on the brink of war, she isn’t sure their love is meant to last. Each page is a steamy, dreamy escape.

What readers are saying: “I love Scottish romance books, and this one was a winner for sure. Katherine and Lachlan both had strong personalities, which made for a romantic and suspenseful book.” 

‘The Moon Sister’ by Lucinda Riley 

The Moon Sister by Lucinda Riley - Atria
Atria

This beautifully written series, in which each novel can be read as a standalone, follows six adopted sisters. In this story, we meet Tiggy, the free-spirited “Moon Sister,” who has a penchant for nature and resides in the sweeping Scottish Highlands. One day, Tiggy receives a letter with details on how to find her birthplace, then meets an old gypsy named Chilly. What follows is a magical adventure through Tiggy’s rich family history in 1933 Spain.

What readers are saying: “A gripping narrative, riveting turn of events and authentic characters I learned so much about the gypsies culture… Tiggy is truly a wonderful person, and I loved that she was committed to the cause of animal conservation.” 

‘Beyond the Highland Mist’ by Karen Marie Moning 

Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning - Dell
Dell

Time travel? Check! Strapping Scottish hero? Check! A feisty heroine who dazzles said hero? Check! In the first book of Karen Marie Moning’s Highlander series, Adrienne is magically transported from present-day Seattle to 16th-century Scotland, where she is forced to marry a Scottish warrior named Hawk. Adrienne vows to keep this man at a distance, but the growing and undeniable attraction between them is wreaking havoc on her plan.

What readers are saying: “A man who has never been in love and a woman who’s had her heart shattered…Beyond the Highland Mist is full of anger, jealousy, trust issues, deception and of course love; all of the things that make a fantastic book. And being that this is her first in this series, I can’t wait to read the rest!” 

‘The Highland Witch’ by Susan Fletcher 

The Highland Witch by Susan Fletcher - W W Norton Company
W. W. Norton & Company

Magic, mystery and murder come together in this historical fiction novel set in 1692 Scotland.  After she’s accused of being the witch responsible for a massacre in the Scottish highlands, Corrag begins to tell her story to Charles Leslie, a propagandist hoping to condemn King William, who was rumored to have played a part in the murders. Can the two work together and bring the correct man to justice, or will Corrag be locked away for the rest of her life? A page-turning novel filled with vivid details and a plot that will keep you guessing. 

What readers are saying: “I have never before read a book that made me want to visit its setting as this one has. Fletcher renders her characters and the Highlands so beautifully, I didn’t want to leave the pages of this book and return to my life.” 

‘Midnight on the Scottish Shore’ by Sarah Sundin

Midnight on the Scottish Shore by Sarah Sundin - Revell
Revell

Set during WWII, this novel follows Cilla van der Zee after she becomes a spy for the Nazis. But when she is discovered in Scotland by Lt. Lachlan Mackenzie, that plan gets delayed. He decides that instead of killing Cilla they can use her position as a Nazi spy to feed them false information to help the Allies. What follows is a battle of bravery, strength and romance. 

What readers are saying: “I stumbled across Sarah Sundin a while ago now and I’m so glad I did! This book did not disappoint! The relationships between characters felt realistic, and I enjoyed reading the slow build-up of the characters’ romantic interest in each other.” 

‘The King’s Messenger’ by Susanna Kearsley 

The Kings Messenger by Susanna Kearsley - Sourcebooks Landmark
Sourcebooks Landmark

From bestselling author Susanna Kearsley comes another dazzling and delightful tale. In 1613, King James sends his messenger, Andrew Logan, to Scotland to arrest Sir David Moray, an advisor and close friend of the late Prince Henry. Once he arrives, Andrew learns that he wasn’t sent there to arrest David; he was sent there to frame him for Prince Henry’s murder. Will he go through with it, or will his schooling connection to court scrivener’s daughter Phoebe persuade him otherwise? This novel is perfect for fans of Regency dramas and romance. 

What readers are saying: “A lovely historically based novel with wonderfully detailed characters. It starts slow and must be given a chance to ripen into a full and rich portrayal. Bravo, Susanna Kearsley—another very enjoyable read!” 

‘A Scot in the Dark’ by Sarah MacLean

A Scot in the Dark by Sarah MacLean - Avon
Avon

In this sweeping, steamy and achingly romantic tale, bestselling author Sarah Maclean dazzles. Lillian Hargrove has spent more of her life alone, so when she gets the chance to model for an artist, she takes it. Soon, though, the painting becomes public, and Lily’s reputation is ruined, leaving her no choice but to turn to the Scottish Duke of Warnick for help. A swoonworthy story that is perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers tales and Bridgerton aficionados.

What readers are saying: “I just discovered Sarah MacLean and have been enjoying her books for weeks, but A Scot in the Dark is truly special. I couldn’t put it down.”

Conversation

All comments are subject to our Community Guidelines. Woman's World does not endorse the opinions and views shared by our readers in our comment sections. Our comments section is a place where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. Offensive language, hate speech, personal attacks, and/or defamatory statements are not permitted. Advertising or spam is also prohibited.

Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items. Use right arrow key to move into submenus. Use escape to exit the menu. Use up and down arrow keys to explore. Use left arrow key to move back to the parent list.

Already have an account?