On 23rd November 2016 Diana Gabaldon and Neil Oliver were at Stirling Castle. They were there as part of Scottish Book Week. It was an interview chat about their novels. I was one of the lucky 200 to obtain a ticket. I primarily went to meet Diana Gabaldon but local archaeologist and TV presenter Neil Oliver was a big bonus for me.
They were interviewed at the same time and it was fascinating as they discussed how they both write; 2 totally different methods. Neil Oliver had an end line and then started to work towards the ending; while Diana thought of an object and the scene grew from that, Each scene might not make sense to her but the scene was banked and she said eventually she had scenes to make a book.
At the end, the questions were opened up to the house and one question I found very revealing. Diana was asked about the ending of season 1 of Outlander TV series. The questioner was disappointed about how little attention was given to Claire’s healing of Jamie from his mental torture. Diana’s reply was that it had been discussed at the time of filming, but not to worry, more is going to be revealed of that in Season 2!!! We just have to wait until then…
Then both stayed for book signing. I again was lucky enough to get 4 books signed, yes 4! Well……and as I said to Diana…..I might not meet you again so I am going to make the most of this opportunity. She smiled and said no problem. I mentioned a mutual acquaintance, a lady who had been on my tour years ago, and Diana acknowledged her. She was a very nice, pleasant lady and I hope to meet her again.
If I was able to have asked the two authors a question it would have been……what is your favourite malt whisky and how do you drink it?
I hope one day to get an answer to this question.
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