Episode seven of Outlander: Blood of My Blood left fans reeling with betrayals, secret plots, and heartbreak. With Ellen’s honor under attack, Julia’s desperate fight for her child, and Brian caught between love and loyalty, the stage is perfectly set for the next chapter. Here’s a closer look at what fans could see when the story continues.
Perhaps the most pressing storyline heading into Episode 8 is Ellen MacKenzie’s precarious situation. At the end of the last episode, a poisonous letter from Lord Lovat cast doubt on her virtue, leading the Grants to demand she submit to a humiliating test, this plot point could shape much of the upcoming episode.
One possibility is that Ellen will be forced to undergo the examination, setting up a deeply emotional sequence where she must fight to preserve her dignity. Yet, it is equally possible that she might find an ally who intervenes at the last moment. Could Brian step forward, risking his relationship with his father to defend Ellen? Or might Douall, wracked with guilt for pledging MacKenzie funds to the Jacobite cause, use this moment to redeem himself by shielding his sister?
The writers may also explore the ripple effects of this accusation. Even if Ellen avoids the test, her reputation has already been damaged. This could complicate her betrothal to Malcolm Grant, leaving her future more uncertain than ever.
Julia’s storyline continues to pull at the heart. In Episode 7, she secretly baptized her child with Brian’s help and later plotted with Deina to weaken Lovat using monk’s pepper. In Episode 8, we may see these seeds of rebellion grow stronger.
Julia’s defiance suggests she will not remain passive while Lovat controls her son. Viewers might witness her taking even bolder steps to outwit him. One theory is that Julia will attempt to arrange an escape, either alone or with Deina’s help. Another possibility is that she will seek out allies within Castle Leoch, perhaps turning to someone unexpected who shares her distrust of Lovat.
At the same time, the emotional bond between Julia and her child is likely to be highlighted further. Episode 8 could bring more intimate moments where Julia risks everything just to be near him, reminding viewers that her fight is not only political but profoundly maternal.
Brian Fraser’s position grows more dangerous with every episode. In Episode 7, he openly defied Lovat by supporting Julia and was nearly exposed at the Jacobite meeting. Now, with his father fully aware of his relationship with Ellen, Brian finds himself caught in a web of manipulation.
Episode 8 may force Brian to make a defining choice. Will he remain loyal to Ellen despite the risks, or will he bend under his father’s pressure? Fans of the larger Outlander universe know Brian’s path is closely tied to the Fraser legacy, which means his actions here could have lasting consequences.
The episode may also further explore Brian’s strained friendship with Myrta; their confrontation in Episode 7 hinted at long-lasting wounds, and Episode 8 could test whether the two men can reconcile or if their bond is irreparably broken.
Episode 7 teased the growing fire of rebellion, with Rob Roy MacGregor’s rousing speech and Douall’s reckless pledge of MacKenzie funds. Episode 8 is almost certain to kick this political thread.
We may see the fallout of the redcoat raid, with suspicions mounting about who betrayed the meeting. Ellen’s presence there could draw more scrutiny, further complicating her already fragile position. Meanwhile, the MacKenzies may struggle to distance themselves from Douall’s promise, especially if Malcolm Grant begins to doubt their loyalty.
The writers might also introduce new Jacobite figures or deepen Rob Roy’s role, reinforcing the sense that these characters are standing at the edge of history’s storm.
Henry’s character, though quieter, continues to be one of the most heartbreaking. His failed attempt to reach Craigh na Dun in Episode 7 suggests that Episode 8 may bring another attempt. This time, will he get closer to the stones? Or will someone else stand in his way?
Archbug’s mocking words hint that Henry’s obsession could lead to danger. Perhaps Episode 8 will show him taking greater risks, even putting his life on the line, to return to his own time and reunite with his daughter. The storyline could also begin to intersect more directly with Julia’s, as Henry’s determination mirrors her refusal to give up hope.
No preview would be complete without considering the role of Lord Lovat. His manipulations in Episode 7 revealed just how ruthless he can be. In Episode 8, viewers might see him tighten his grip on Julia and Brian, using Ellen’s ruined reputation as leverage in his ongoing feud with the MacKenzies.
There is also the question of how long Lovat’s authority will hold. If Julia and Deina continue their subtle resistance, his power could begin to crack. Fans may witness small but significant victories for Julia, even as the larger battle rages on.
Episode 8 guarantees to be a turning point in the season with Ellen’s reputation on the line, Julia’s rebellion growing bolder, and the Jacobite storm gathering; the stakes have never been higher. Fans can expect a mix of heartbreak, tension, and defiance as the characters fight for love, loyalty, and freedom in a world that constantly tries to strip them of it.
Read more: Outlander Blood of My Blood
