By Jamie Ruby

Tonight Rizzoli & Isles returns to TNT for its third season. The episode picks up where the season finale left off with Jane (Angie Harmon) having shot Maura's (Sasha Alexander) biological father and head of the Irish mob, Paddy Doyle (John Doman), who showed up unexpectedly. He was only trying to protect his daughter, but things got out of hand when he shot the suspect and Agent Dean (Billy Burke), and Jane was forced to shoot Paddy.

In the season opener, this obviously has put quite the strain on the two's friendship, as Jane tries to get Maura to understand her actions, which she refuses to accept. It's not only Maura that Jane has to worry about, but also the fact that Internal Affairs starts an investigation after the shooting, as well as the repercussions of them finding out about her relationship with Agent Dean.

The episode had some great moments as Maura learns a bit more about her family and Jane struggles throughout the episode to set things right, yet continues to argue with Maura.

One of the things that stood out to me in the episode was the flashback of Jane and Maura meeting for the first time, which was both interesting and hillarious. I also very much enjoyed the scenes with Jane's mother (Lorraine Bracco) who always brings in some great comedy.

The episode was interspersed with the funny moments, as usual, though it did not detract from the actual case of the week, which was engaging. Of course the friendship of Jane and Angie, even when tested, was the star of the show.

I am excited to learn more about Maura's backstory as the season unfolds. I think this episode marks a good start back for the show heading into season three, and it can only get better from here.