In the eighth installment of "Wild Cards," a shocking turn of events unfolds as Dr. Sophie Fernwood, a prominent therapist and author, is found deceased. Max and Ellis, despite needing a break from their partnership, are tasked by Li to unravel the mystery of Fernwood's death, which occurred prior to her body being discovered in her luxurious home's pool, surrounded by a significant sum of money.
Their investigation leads them to Daphne, Fernwood's business manager, who has an alibi for the night but is intensely searching for Fernwood's laptop that holds a potentially lucrative manuscript. Amidst the investigation, Max obtains a book from Fernwood's collection, hoping it might offer clues. They then attend Fernwood's funeral undercover, where a startling public confession of guilt by renowned news anchor Wendell Collins adds a twist to the case.
However, Collins' repeated confession raises doubts. His interactions with Fernwood, due to his public speaking anxiety, and a significant phrase on his mirror drive Max and Ellis to a deeper inquiry. They discover Fernwood's therapeutic use of hypnosis on Collins, which clarifies his odd confession.
To further their investigation, Max and Ellis infiltrate the Fernwood Wellness Center under the guise of seeking couples therapy. This setting unintentionally prompts personal revelations about their lives and motives. Meanwhile, they learn more about the therapists' use of hypnosis.
The narrative takes another turn when Daphne is considered a suspect due to her recent dismissal and possible motives linked to Fernwood's manuscript. Further investigation points toward Joan, Fernwood's long-time friend and the ghostwriter behind her success, revealing a complex web of jealousy and financial disparities.
The climax at the wellness center, where Joan's guilt is confirmed through a clever use of hypnosis, seems a bit rushed, with her sudden shift from a suicide threat to accepting her fate feeling somewhat contrived.
Post-case, a conversation between Ellis and Simmons sheds light on the importance of therapy, reflecting on their personal growth and unresolved issues.
While episode 8 presents an intriguing premise with its blend of mystery, personal dynamics, and the use of therapy as a plot device, the execution falters at times, particularly in its resolution. The therapy sessions provide a thoughtful exploration of Max and Ellis's characters, yet the episode's pacing and resolution lack the depth and impact seen in the previous installment. Despite these criticisms, the episode contributes to the overarching narrative and character development in "Wild Cards."
