Audiobook Sample

Listen to the sample to experience the story.

Please wait while we verify your browser...

Dear fellow travelers through time and literature,

As a travel writer who has wandered through countless landscapes, both real and imagined, I’ve always been drawn to stories that transport me to another world. Diana Gabaldon’s *Fiery Cross*, the fifth installment in the Outlander series, is one such journey. Narrated by the incomparable Davina Porter, this audiobook is a masterclass in storytelling that blends history, romance, and adventure into a rich tapestry of human experience.

Listening to *Fiery Cross* felt like sitting around a campfire with a wise storyteller, much like the evenings I spent in Oaxaca, where the grandmother of the family I stayed with would spin tales that seemed to breathe with life. Davina Porter’s narration captures that same intimacy and authenticity, her voice weaving through the story with a warmth and depth that makes every character feel alive.

The year is 1771, and Claire Randall, an outlander in both time and place, is anchored only by her love for Jamie Fraser. Their life in North Carolina is a precarious balance of joy and tension, as ancient rivalries and the looming American Revolution threaten to tear apart their clan. Gabaldon’s ability to blend historical detail with emotional resonance is unparalleled, and Porter’s narration amplifies this, making the listener feel every heartbeat of fear, love, and determination.

One of the most striking aspects of this audiobook is how Gabaldon uses Claire’s knowledge of the future as both a beacon of hope and a source of dread. It reminds me of my own travels through the Atacama Desert, where the surreal landscape seemed to blur the lines between past and future, much like Claire’s prophetic visions. The tension between knowing what’s to come and being powerless to stop it is palpable, and Porter’s voice carries this weight with a grace that is both haunting and beautiful.

The audiobook experience is further enriched by Porter’s ability to bring out the cultural and emotional nuances of the story. Her Scottish brogue for Jamie is as comforting as it is commanding, while Claire’s voice carries a blend of strength and vulnerability that mirrors her character’s journey. The secondary characters, from the fiery Brianna to the enigmatic Roger, are equally well-realized, each voice distinct and memorable.

However, *Fiery Cross* is not without its challenges. At over 50 hours of listening, it’s a commitment, and some sections feel slower than others. Yet, much like a long journey through uncharted territory, these moments of stillness are often where the most profound insights are found. Gabaldon’s attention to detail can be overwhelming at times, but Porter’s narration ensures that even the most intricate passages are engaging.

For those who love historical fiction, romance, or simply a well-told story, *Fiery Cross* is a must-listen. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling, both written and spoken, and a reminder of how literature can bridge the gap between past and present, reality and imagination.

As I listened, I couldn’t help but think of the stories I’ve collected on my own travels—how they connect us, teach us, and remind us of our shared humanity. *Fiery Cross* is more than an audiobook; it’s an experience, one that lingers long after the final words have faded.

With wanderlust and literary appreciation, Marcus Rivera
Marcus Rivera