Outlander Book Club: An Echo in the Bone Chapter 39 breakdown

Just the Outlander chapter

The chapter starts with a focus on the storm that’s coming. Weather always seems to connect to William’s feelings, and the storm is a sign of trouble and confusion. William isn’t sure what to make of the people around him, and there’s a storm inside of him brewing.

He perks up when he hears Ian outside. We don’t get to see Ian, though. Instead, Rachel brings William the package Ian had, and it’s clear that Rachel has been through it. She doesn’t know who to trust at this moment in time, knowing William could be just as dangerous as the Indians.

William is shocked by the package—and I’m more shocked that Ian calls William “cousin.” Why would he do this when William doesn’t know the truth about Jamie yet? And I still don’t remember Ian learning the truth about William. Is it possible that like Bree, he’s just figured it out based on the way William looks?

The letter includes money. This is for burial if necessary, but if William survives, it’s for his travels. The latter is what William is able to use it on. Why would Ian offer him all this? William is even more confused. At the same time, William feels at home with Ian around. Why would that be the case?

During the storm, Rachel explains more about her family. After her parents died, she and Denzell were sent to live with their uncle, John Hunter. This brought them to Philadelphia, where they are now. However, Denzell’s views that they should fight for the Continental Army are what is getting them kicked out of the Quaker community. Rachel doesn’t seem all that happy about it, but she has no choice but to follow her brother.

In the end, William agrees that the Hunters can come with him. There are reasons to do this for his own safety. The Hunters know the land, and there is safety in numbers. William also thinks he’ll be able to get closer to Washington to make up for the lost book, making it clear that maybe the Hunters shouldn’t trust him.