3.5*
I wasn’t aware this was anything more than historical romance, so was pleasantly surprised that it was such a hybrid. More historical accuracy than I’d expected as well. Touches on Scottish mythology and superstitions, has jailbreaks and rebel Scotts and political intrigue. Of course, sex and sexuality, and gender roles are central—to its benefit and detriment.

This would have been an easy 4 stars for me if it didn’t rely so heavily on the presence of sexual assault. Especially in the first three quarters of the novel. Seems like anytime Claire screws up she’s threatened with rape from all sides. Even backstory of other characters involve rape.

It’s very preoccupied with it, and I guess because it sets up the main sort of stakes as to whether or not Claire will be with her “real” husband or her Scottish one, the stakes are also sexualized? It just made me desensitizing toward the issue and felt incredibly lazy as it went on.

Not sure if I’ll continue with the series or not. Might give the show a chance instead.

*Spoiler warning*
The largest gripe I have, though, is Randall himself and the homophobia. Randall is revealed to essentially just be an evil gay also in love with Jamie. The contrasts between Randall as an ancestor and Claire’s husband is maybe semi interesting?

Men reacting to power dynamics and war differently. But there’s certainly no positive depictions of gay men and uhh she was spirited away on magical rocks that are not even historically present, so saying it’s all for historical accuracy is bs. Especially when she herself is challenging gender roles and expectations and Jamie seemingly seems written to break stereotypes of how a male love interest might be depicted.

The Duke is also always laughed at and the subject of open ridicule and he empowers Randall to do as he does. Extremely suspect and bumped down my rating because it hampered my enjoyment.