2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

The investigation quickly leads the team to the planned dig at the sight where the former Crestwood facility was located. Kim’s instincts lead her to believe that there’s a body buried on the site but DCI Woodward wants her to wait until they get authorization. Your thoughts about her discourse with Bryant as they debate her decision to go forward without the approval? What did you learn about her? About Bryant? Kim’s relationship with Woodward (Woody)?

Bryant is Kim's loyal 2IC, he has her back and also at times is the voice of reason. Sometimes she is so passionate she needs Bryant as a sounding board and to occasionally rein her in. And Woody has her back as well. He has to toe the line and caution Kim about protocol but he probably knows she sometimes will go outside the lines. And this is what makes her so effective as an Investigator. He must trust her to only push the boundaries when she is sure she is on to something.. and Bryant is there as a backup should she need it.

Bryant is Kim's conscience. He reminds her of what she is supposed to do then allows her to make the decision to tow the line or not. Kim trusts Bryant to voice the pros and cons of her decisions. He also trusts Kim's instincts.

Woody knows Kim and expects to cover for her if necessary. It will be interesting to see if that will always be the case. He does trust her instincts but an investigator has to follow protocol sometimes.

These two really are a match made in heaven. Bryant instinctively knows how to handle Kim and is so comfortable in his role as her second. They’ve developed an easy rapport and their mutual respect is obvious. Both know their boundaries.

DCI Woodward is a more complex matter. He’s appointed himself as her secret guardian, knowing how to protect her from herself and when to tighten or loosen the reins. She knows where her boundaries are with him, too.

Kim’s fortunate to have these two at her flank.

Learning about Woody's backstory with Kim in the prequel makes me look at his actions differently. He does have a fine line to walk.

I liked the comment about the stress ball when we find out that Woody is always squeezing it harder when Kim comes to see him. As Sharon said, we know a little about their backstory from First Blood, but this adds another layer. Even though he believes in her and maybe because he believes in her, she causes him extra stress.