:) I have recommended the Outlander books to so many people, including my own mother, and gotten them all hooked, regardless of whether they typically read time travel/fantasy or not. They're just such good reads, so well-researched and historically accurate, and the characters are so human and engaging. I agree, though; you have to start with book 1 or you're just going to be lost. There are so many little details that she comes back to in later books, and if you don't know their original context, you're going to be lost.

You're welcome! I'm happy to be a cheering section when you need one; as I said, I know how bad it can be. I'm happy to have a look at the resume if you like. If it helps, I had three interviews during those two and a half years (which is really three academic job cycles) and I must have put out about 150 applications. Literally. It will happen; it just requires a LOT of persistence. :)