This episode cranked up the tension. At this point in the season, Joe's past is starting to catch up with him, and Episode 9 does a great job showing how his built new life in L. A. is starting to unravel. Delilah finding the cage was a huge turning point - there's this constant sense of dread throughout the episode that kept me on edge. I thought the suspense was handled well. Joe is spiraling, trying so hard to convince himself he's a good person, even though his actions say otherwise. That inner conflict is one of the most fascinating parts of the show for me - it's disturbing, but compelling. Love's character also started to feel a little more complex here. She's always been the warm, grounding presence in Joe's life, but there were signs in this episode that there's more going on with her than we've been led to believe. The pacing was tight, and I liked the added pressure of the private investigator subplot. It made everything feel like it was closing in on Joe from all sides. That said, some of Joe's constant justifications are starting to feel a bit worn out. And there are a few moments that felt a little too convenient plot-wise, but that kind of over-the-top drama is part of the fun with this show. I'd give it an 8.5 out of 10. It's one of the better episodes of the season and sets things up well for the finale.
