I know a lot of people were disappointed with this episode and think it was too slow/domestic etc, but I thought it was lovely. The whole point of DoA is that J&C have finally found a home and are able to put down roots and, maybe, have a bit of peace for a change. There is also a lot of scene setting for future relationship developments and the like.
I thought that they handled all the tensions really well, particularly between Claire and John. I'm not a big Lord John fan, he doesn't really grab my imagination, but, without him, there would likely be no Jamie because he would have snuffed it long ago. I thought the Murtagh bit was good because he feels like I imagine a lot of Scots, particularly Highlanders, felt towards the British at the time and he isn't afraid to voice his anger. Poor Murtagh has lost so much and wants some sort of revenge, really.
Willie was a spoilt wee ratbag, just like he should have been. He's another one that I can't warm to. Obsessed by his station, whiny and wallows in self pity as he gets older (although he is only a young man even in the later books.) I really liked that he recognised Mac, it always baffled my how he couldn't in the books given how close they were. It was very touching and seeing him ride home in front of Jamie was heart wrenching.
I actually think that this is my favourite episode so far.
Oh, and I can recommend the Scottish Prisoner, if you want more background to John and Jamie's relationship. It's the best LJG book by a long way, I think, although they all round out his character quite nicely.