The Exile is roughly the first 1/3 of Outlander as a graphic novel. Getting to see what Jamie, Claire, and others look like – sign me up!!I really enjoyed The Exile. It tells the Outlander story from Jamie and Murtagh’s perspective with a new side story added in. Therefore it is not just a straight retelling of Outlander and brings something new to the tale. It also tells a bit of the back story of Jamie’s time in France and his mysterious first love.
The Exile starts the tale with Jamie’s return from France. Murtagh meets him, but they are soon met by Dougal Mackenzie, much to their dismay. Claire Beauchamp soon makes a memorable appearance in his life. Jamie and the Mackenzie crew rescue Claire from the redcoats and Claire nurses Jamie’s wounds. Claire is taken back with them to the Mackenzie’s stronghold. Jamie finds himself attracted to Claire and you know (or maybe you don’t) the rest of the story. The Exile ends shortly after the trial for witchcraft.
I loved Hoang Nguyen’s illustrations. It was wonderful to see the world of Outlander brought to life. My only dismay was at the buxomness of all of the ladies, but that seems to be a hallmark of graphic novels. Claire was more voluptuous then I had imagined (but my imagination may have been more riveted by Jamie), but my favorite thing was the voluptuousness of Mrs. Fitzgibbons. I thought of her always as a large, matronly, button-upped type. Little did I know that she was walking around with her bosoms ready to fall out of her dress. It made me laugh whenever she was shown. My favorite though was a backside rendition of Jamie in his natural state. I think I need to frame it and hang it up in my office. Just kidding!
Overall, The Exile is a must read for Outlander fans. It has a new side story and is an interesting perspective from Jamie’s side. The illustrations and getting to see the Outlander world visually is priceless.
Book Source: The Kewaunee Public Library, but I’m adding this to my Christmas list as I would love a copy of my own!
Laura, having read Outlander (finally!), this graphic novel version sounds really appealing to me. I didn't even know there was such a thing! Terrific, funny post! :)
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