Outlander Book Club: The Fiery Cross Chapter 9 breakdown

While the chapter starts with Claire, we move to Roger finding people for the militia in Outlander Book 5, Chapter 9

The chapter starts with Claire working on one of Farquard Campbell’s slaves, but that’s not where we stay. Outlander Book 5, Chapter 9 takes us to Roger, who is starting his duties as Captain MacKenzie of the militia.

We get this chance to see the trust Jamie has put in Roger. The Gathering is the best time to get people to join the militia. It saves having to go around all parts of the backcountry. And Roger understands this trust instilled in him. Now he doesn’t want to mess that up.

At the same time, we see Claire trying to figure out who the Regulators are and whether this is the start of the American Revolutionary War. Is this what kicks things off in North Carolina? Claire is learning history as it happens, and it means there’s little she can do to help anyone.

Of course, this chapter is important for the overall plot of The Fiery Cross. The militia is going to become a major part of the story as we lead up to the Battle of Alamance. I don’t notice traditional foreshadowing in the chapter, but I do notice the amount the plot is pushed forward.

And while the Gathering wasn’t used in the series, part of this chapter was used. And it was important for Roger’s character development.

Let’s dive into The Fiery Cross Chapter 9.