Is the Malva Christie storyline going to be avoided on Outlander?

Outlander Season 5 has made Marsali Claire’s assistant. Does this mean the Malva Christie storyline will be avoided? We’re still debating.

When the Outlander Season 5 promos showed that Marsali would become Claire’s assistant, there were debates about what this would mean for the future. Even now, the debates continue, and it’s not easy to tell what Diana Gabladon means in a recent tweet. She seems to hint that Malva Christie will still be involved.

Personally, the whole Malva Christie plot is one of my least favorite. It actually makes “A Breath of Snow and Ashes” partially one of my least favorite novels. And I only say partially because there are plenty of moments that I do thoroughly enjoy. It’s just part of the story that I wouldn’t mind being cut out with the focus on some other elements.

However, by the sounds of things, Marsali isn’t completely replacing Malva Christie and the Christie family. One Twitter user asked whether Marsali’s involvement meant a particular character would be left out. Those who have read the books know they mean Malva.

Gabaldon hinted that Malva would still be around. However, she also commented on the phrasing of the question.

Naturally, fans of “A Breathe of Snow and Ashes” and the Malva plot will be excited to hear that. However, there is something to point out. Gabaldon wasn’t responding to the actual question about the character. She was responding to the “should I conclude” part.

Of course, we know that we should never assume or conclude anything. Many fans immediately assumed that Duncan Innes would be completely ignored for the Jocasta/Murtagh storyline, but he was mentioned in the Outlander Season 5 premiere. Others have assumed that various parts of the books will be included only to be left disappointed.

The lesson is to go in with no expectations. Don’t assume something is or isn’t going to be included in the show just based on a change or two. You never know!

So, will Malva still be part of the story? Don’t rule it out just yet!

What do you think of the Malva storyline? What did you think of Marsali taking over as Claire’s assistant? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Outlander Season 5 airs Sundays on STARZ.