Tonight’s show was not a typical investigation for the NCIS team. While the death of a hero marine is the basis for their search for killers, this is their Christmas show where they feature the hopes and dreams of various team members. In doing so, the show’s writers use a technique we actually employed in two of our thrillers showing how the past intersects with the present as well as the future. In “Stolen Legacy,” we weave in true events of WWII to solve a modern case involving Federal Agent Eva Montanna when her grandfather is threatened. And in our following novel, “Embers of Courage”, the courage of Federal Agent Montanna’s ancestors in generations past give her strength to save a fellow agent who is taken captive in Egypt.

In this episode, we learn more of what has motivated Dr. “Ducky” Mallard throughout his life. Without spoiling the episode for those of you who tape the show, we’ll note only that during the investigation Probationary Agent Ellie Bishop’s life once again comes into focus. Certain painful events of Ducky’s past are also visited. When we read the previews, we were suspicious this show would be dark, but we were pleasantly surprised with a warm story, a worthy complement to the Christmas season. Watch it and enjoy!

Be Blessed, Diane and David Munson