Julie's Review of Strange Bedfellows

Renée's bid for re-election takes a turn when a reporter accuses her of interfering with witness testimony and apparently has a document from her files to prove it. To help clear her name and save the election, Renée seeks forensics help from the morgue. Meanwhile, Ivers returns with a special request—he wants Jordan to work a sting operation to snag a physician who sells prescriptions. Woody's protective side emerges, and the sting causes some moments of discomfort for this couple struggling to deal with the ups and downs of a real relationship.

Strengths

Storyline: Both storylines in this episode were extremely well written, and the return of Ivers was creative and fitting. Descriptions of the characters posture, facial expressions, and demeanor added to the setting, helping to make the episode more real. Dialogue: The dialogue in this episode was very strong, especially in the series' secondary characters. Seely, Renée, and Ivers were written especially well. It was easy to picture each of them delivering their lines. Artwork: Nynaeve's episode banner was excellent, and the in-story artwork (by Emma), while not as abundant as prior Virtual Season 7 episodes, was for the most part solid. The picture of Nigel and Kate in the hall and the subsequent picture of Bug, Nigel, and Seely in the lab were especially good.  Music: Music selections were well planned and amusing, especially the choice of 'These Boots are Made for Walkin'".  Relationship development: This episode definitely marked progress and intrigue in past, established, and new relationships. Jordan and Woody had differing opinions over Jordan's part in the sting, and though they argued about it, there was give and take before the sting went down. Additionally, we saw some jealousy on Woody's part, and it was farm-boy cute. Exchanges between Nigel and Kate were very interesting, hinting at the fact that we may see more from the pair, and Renée actually called what happened between her and Garret a relationship. Continuity: There were several instances of references to past episodes from both Virtual Season 7 and to the on-air series. Those references were woven in nicely and invoked memories of episodes past. Favorite Exchange: There were several segments of banter that were very funny, but this topped the list: WOODY: When we move in, get her away from him—fast. UNIFORM ONE (confused): Dr. Cavanaugh's not in danger, is she? WOODY: Not Jordan; McDonald's in danger. She's definitely going to try to kill him.

Areas for Improvement

Storyline: The only possible detractor from this episode is that there's not a corpse in sight, though the episode was still very interesting without an autopsy and a unique cause of death. Dialogue: Only one line stood out as being a bit out of character—when Garret called Renee the hottest lawyer he knew. Artwork: There were few weaknesses in the artwork. The truly observant would notice that Renee has "man hands" in a press shot and that there is a Kerry/Edwards sign in the shot of the crowd. But those items don't totally detract from the artwork and actually add amusement. 

Virtual Season writer Mecedeme, banner artist Nynaeve, and episode artist Emma assembled a solid, entertaining episode appropriately timed for Election Day. I'll give this episode 3.75 scalpels out of 4 for an excellent, entertaining effort.