The countdown to Monk’s final episode continues with more twists and turns than ever. With only six episodes remaining, this final season may very well be the best in the show’s long seven year history. Guest starring on this week’s episode are Bitty Schram, as Adrian Monk’s (Tony Shalhoub‘s) former assistant Sharona Fleming, as well as Jack Wagner as golf pro Perry Walsh.

Sharona arrives in town unannounced to take care of matters involving the accidental death of her Uncle Howie. What should be an open and shut case for the now New Jersey nurse turns complicated after Monk becomes involved.

Proving that the case was no accident, but rather a cold and calculated murder, costs Sharona a hefty settlement, and possibly her son’s college education.

Sharona’s visit proves interesting as she and Natalie (Traylor Howard), Monk’s current assistant, goes from bonding and comparing notes to butting heads and constant bickering. Monk, who tries to keep the two apart, finally gives up and takes the next available taxi as far away as he can. Sharona and Natalie find Monk at his wife’s grave and tell him that they have decided to put their differences aside. The three of them team up in the end to find the man responsible for the murder of Sharona’s uncle.

As Sharona prepares to leave, she says her good-byes and shares an emotional hug with Monk. She admits to Natalie that she will now be able to sleep better knowing that her former boss is in such capable hands. One of the biggest surprises of the night takes place when Sharona’s driver, identified as Randy Disher (Jason Gray-Stanford), pulls up and gives Sharona a big kiss on the lips. The two speed off together as Monk and Natalie watch in disbelief.

This was one of my favorite episodes ever. Sharona’s return was a very nice touch as well as the surprise kiss at the end. Jack Wagner did an exceptional job of portraying the killer, and I have to say, it was nice seeing him outside of his soap opera role. Next week’s episode is titled Mr. Monk and the Dog. I can’t wait to see it. I can tell by the title that it is going to be very interesting!