Introduction

Set in Miami, the series centers on Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), a serial killer governed by an ambiguous moral code who works for the Miami Metro Police Department as a blood spatter analyst.

Set in Miami, the series centers on Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), a serial killer governed by an ambiguous moral code who works for the Miami Metro Police Department as a blood spatter analyst.

Dexter studies those closest to Arthur in an attempt to understand the psychology behind the Trinity Killer’s actions; Rita’s Thanksgiving-dinner plans are complicated when her full house gets even fuller with the addition of some unexpected guests; Batista sees some closure on a troubling old case; and Debra’s continued pursuit of the Trinity Killer may prove a threat to Dexter.

Dexter has always known his father’s Code was meant to protect him from exposure. But after committing a serious mistake, he wonders if it could have been designed to protect him from something even more dangerous – human emotion. When he discovers that Trinity is planning an out-of-town trip, Dexter sees an opportunity to ride along and gain insight into the mind of a fellow monster. Even so, Dexter isn’t prepared for the startling revelations Trinity makes along the way, revelations about his own past which only serve to convince Dexter of what he must do. Meanwhile, back at Miami Metro, Debra refuses to let a technicality keep her off the Trinity case. She works through others to ensure her voice is heard – that is, until she realizes that her single-minded pursuit of the Trinity Killer may have blinded her to the truth.

Dexter finds himself enjoying a brief moment of tranquility. He’s finally managed to strike a balance between work, family… and other pursuits. But he’s keenly aware that times like these aren’t meant to last. When Miami Metro discovers a string of murders connected to a prominent photographer, Dexter sees an opportunity for a clean kill. However, his plans seem to be thwarted every step of the way. Quinn has taken a renewed interest in Dexter’s nightlife. Dexter’s plans to keep Astor and Cody distracted with new activities soon backfire. Even Harry disapproves of Dexter’s choice of pastime, urging him instead to focus his efforts on the Trinity Killer. Meanwhile, Debra returns to work, frustrated to find everyone treating her with kid gloves. She decides to concentrate on her pursuit of the Trinity Killer as well as delving into her father’s checkered past – investigations which Dexter fears might lead her to danger – or worse, the truth.

Dexter knows it’s only a matter of time before Miami Metro discovers the Trinity Killer’s latest handiwork. Therefore, he has to work doubly hard to stay one step ahead of their investigation. Dexter has begun to realize that the closer he gets to Trinity, the more he stands to learn from this very different beast. Trinity hides behind a well-kept mask, and getting behind that facade will require some extra prodding on Dexter’s part. Meanwhile, Debra becomes frustrated when she finds herself shut out from her own case. She considers bending the rules in the name of justice, risking her career in the process. LaGuerta and Batista come to regret a major decision, and realize that by playing by the rules they may have painted themselves into a corner. And when the friction between Rita and Dexter comes to a head, Dexter gleans relationship advice from a most unlikely source.

With Debra recovering in the hospital, Dexter re-doubles his efforts to locate the Trinity Killer. Knowing that he is following the same pattern as his murders from 30 years ago, Dexter is sure he knows where he will strike next. Afterward, he follows the serial killer to his home and is shocked by what he finds. Dexter also has some explaining to do when Rita finds out that he never gave up his apartment and still keeps some of his possessions there. Sgt. Batista plants a news item about the suspected Vacation Murderer that bears fruit. Having told her superiors of her relationship with Batista, the Deputy Chief delivers some bad news to Laguerta.