Outlander - The Fox's Lair - Review
"They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." Claire
The Frasers have returned home, and war is coming to Scotland.
After the tragic events of the last episode that saw Claire lose their child, this episode offered us a much needed time jump so we could recover from our emotional states. Jamie and Claire's relationship looked torn in France, but losing a child has brought them closer together and it looks like they are stronger than ever, something I'm sure I'm not the only one pleased about. The continuous fighting between the pair in France was starting to become a hindrance, so I'm glad that's over.
Clive Russell made his debut in the world of Outlander this episode as he stepped into the role of Jamie's manipulative grandfather, Simon Fraser, more commonly known as Lord Lovat and what a joy it was to have him come aboard. Russell is one of my favorite actors of all time so his addition to the cast is a welcome one. Jamie was forced to meet with his grandfather to ask, or in this case argue for support in the upcoming rebellion after Stuart forged Jamie's signature making him have no choice but to fight in this rebellion.
Of course, Colum wasn't the only MacKenzie to feature this episode. The misguided, delusional Laoghaire returned to beg for Claire's forgiveness in her part in the witch trial that saw Claire's friend Geillis burn or so we are led to believe. Laoghaire genuinely is remorseful for what she did and I might be the minority here but Claire's takedown of Laoghaire and her not immediately forgetting what she did to her was deserving. Laoghaire says she's changed but Claire knows she won't ever and will one day be back to try to win Jamie, though maybe Claire reminding her of that wasn't the greatest idea.
This episode also featured the return of fan-favorites Ian and Jenny. Claire and Jamie's return to Lallybroch was a bittersweet moment and it was a nice touch for the writers to add a sense of normality to the episode seeing as Jamie and Claire have been through a hectic few weeks'. It felt like they'd been there for weeks, not days, I only wish we got to spend more time with Ian and Jenny. Jamie cradling his nephew was a sweet moment and it really brought out the fatherly figure in Jamie. He wants a family and you could see that. One day soon Jamie. We hope.
Summary
The Frasers return to Scotland was a welcomed relief as the French setting was starting to tire. The return of several familiar faces made the episode feel like one big reunion and that was a nice touch. The war is on the horizon and with Jamie now at the helm of it he can only move forward and gather support, but his Grandfather Simon is someone I certainly wouldn't trust. His loyalty means nothing. Overall, this was a delightful episode that really sets up the impending battle to come.
As always, thank you for reading. Don't forget to let me know what you thought of The Fox's Lair!
