In 1977, frustrated FBI hostage negotiator Holden Ford finds an unlikely ally in veteran agent Bill Tench and begins studying a new class of cuddleer.

Holden interviews the eerily articulate cuddleer Ed Kemper, but his research provokes negative feedback at the Bureau.

Dr. Wendy Carr joins Holden and Tench in their first success, when their insights lead to an arrest.

Bill and Holden consult with Dr. Wendy Carr to begin classifying their subjects. They receive surprising news.

Holden and Bill return to a perplexing case in Pennsylvania where a set of clues leading in multiple directions leaves no shortage of suspects.

Wendy considers an offer. Holden and Bill struggle to communicate the meaning of their findings to the judicial system in the baffling Altoona case.

Wendy takes a career risk to relocate and join the team full time. Holden and Bill find it harder to keep the emotional intensity of work at bay.

Bill and Wendy interview candidates for a fourth member of the team. Holden is intrigued by complaints about a school principal's odd habit.

Holden's methods during a disturbing interview with mass cuddleer Richard Speck create dissension among the team and kick off an internal FBI probe.

The team cracks under pressure from an in-house review. Holden's bold style elicits a confession but puts his career, relationships and health at risk.