The prospect of time travel is compelling and intriguing. Many authors write about the phenomenon, but romances in particular reveal an interesting aspect of it. The conflict of a character having to choose between staying with their lover in the past or future, or returning from whence they came often arises. This heartrending decision and the path the characters take to make it is the aspect I enjoy most about these novels. The following are some of the best time travel romance novels:
1. Outlander
Outlander, by Diana Gabaldon, is a mammoth of a novel. Every page is totally worth it though. It details the story of Claire, a 20th century nurse who is whisked away to 18th century Scotland through a circle of standing stones. There she meets Jamie, a Scottish highlander. This romance novel is steeped in genuine historical references, adding authenticity to the character’s experiences. The trials of the characters are very intense, evoking emotions in the reader as few books can. You’ll want to have the next few books in the series handy once you finish Outlander, as the series is quite addicting.
2. The Time Traveler’s Wife
The Time Traveler’s Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger, served as the basis for the popular movie of the same title. This is the story of Henry, a man with an uncontrollable time travel disorder, and his wife, Clare. The couple must learn to manage their relationship in spite of Henry’s condition. This is hardly your traditional time travel romance (not being about Scottish highlanders), but the unique story and strong characters make it a great read.
3. The Dark Highlander
The Dark Highlander, by Karen Marie Moning, is the 5th novel in Moning’s popular Highlander series. This book has a dark and sexy edge to it, and it’s incredibly hard to put down. It tells the story of Daegus MacKeltar, a 16th century Scottish highlander and powerful druid, who’s stuck in the 21st century. He and Chloe Zanders, the woman he’s falling for, must discover a way to free his soul from 13 evil druid spirits and return to his time. Their two personalities complement each other well, creating entertaining situations and comical banter. It’s not necessary to read this series in order, as the books are capable of standing alone.
4. A Knight in Shining Armor
A Knight in Shining Armor, by Jude Deveraux, tells the story of Dougless, a woman from 1988, and Nicholas, the 16th century man that she accidentally reincarnates. The two bond and get to know each other as they try to clear Nicholas’ name of a charge he was wrongly convicted of. The ensuing events drag these two characters back and forth in time-a conflict that strengthens their relationship. This heartwarming novel, with its historical highlights and intriguing storyline, is sure to be an instant favorite.
5. Dragonfly in Amber
Dragonfly in Amber, by Diana Gabaldon, is the sequel to Outlander. It continues the tale of Claire and Jamie, while introducing other complex characters with stories of their own. This series is one I’d recommend reading in order, otherwise the storyline could become convoluted and confusing. When the book begins, Claire is back in the 20th century with her daughter and unaware if Jamie is alive or dead. Claire travels back through the magical standing stones, immersing herself once more in an 18th century world full of espionage and intrigue. If you enjoyed Outlander, you’ll definitely like Dragonfly in Amber.
6. Beyond the Highland Mist
Beyond the Highland Mist, by Karen Marie Moning, is the first in Moning’s popular Highlander series. Moning uses Scottish myths about the Fae to create a story in which a strong and independent 21st century woman, Adrienne, is transported to 16th century Scotland. There she meets and falls in love with Hawk, a Scottish lord. However, this pleasant turn of affairs isn’t what the Fae had in mind when transporting her there. Upset that their plan was foiled, they begin to wreak havoc on Adrienne and Hawk’s relationship. Together the couple must find a way to convince the meddling Fae to leave Adrienne in Scotland instead of separating them forever. The characters’ witty humor balances out the many conflicts the Fae present, forming a great book that blends romance and Scottish mysticism.
Sources:
Personal Experience: I’ve read all of these books.
