We are introduced to a new character here, a woman who is paired with Det. Mike Logan (Chris Noth). She is "Det. Carolyn Barek," played by Annabella Sciorra. This is a treat for me, as I've always been a fan of Sciorra. I didn't think I'd want to watch this show anymore if Vincent D'Onofro (Det. Robert Goren") and Kathryn Erbe ("Det. Alexandra Eames) weren't starring in it, but now that I see Sciorra is teamed up with Noth, I'm fine with it. In fact, it's very cool that in either case, we get two interesting defectives to solve a murder each week.
Of course, D'Onofrio and Eames will always be the top choice of me and probably most viewers, but this "second team" isn't bad. My first impression of "Barek" is that she's very low-key, more than I expected knowing the kind of roles Sciorra has played on film.
The crime story involves a sick mother-son duo who are both hooked big-time on drugs. To support their ever-growing habit, the son resorts to sticking up jewelry stores and murdering people in the process. With the dramatic increase in drug usage, his rage is increasing. The story also involves other people, of course, and Logan and Barek investigate and interrogate all of them to try to solve this case.
Logan is under pressure to impress his new boss (Capt. Deakins) so he doesn't get sent back to Staten Island. He wants to be a regular with this Major Crimes Unit. He and his new partner are also learning about each other.
In addition to seeing a new face, the story was an intense one and should definitely keep your interest.