Because I have hopes for my favorite characters which were unmet this episode, I initially felt disappointed in this episode, but after processing and giving it some time I'm able to see that it's actually quite well put together and makes excellent use of the ensemble cast.
In particular, the Canfield family had three family scenes which were an excellent story arc in this episode alone, but which I think set us up for more in upcoming episodes. The Canfield kids are fighting a lot, and Joseph gets very vulnerable with them and shares a secret he's been keeping for a long time.
What I did not like is that Nathan and Elizabeth aren't really communicating well, although they seem to like each other. They always sparkle on screen together, but we've been doing the miscommunication thing for so long , it's time to talk TRUTH and talk DEEP and LONG about it.
Lucas' story line as Governer is getting more interesting all the time, especially since he's seeming more and more compromised to me after his severe injuries, and it seems like his one assistant in town is not trustworthy.
Rosemary and Bill are really amping up their investigation and their scenes together are really enjoyable.
This season we continue to see new parts of Hope Valley -- Nathan and Elizabeth's scene in the backyard of the rowhouses was beautiful, refreshing, and felt like new territory.
When Calls the Heart history was made as Nathan Grant accidentally appeared shirtless to Elizabeth in the Mountie office. The actual shirtless part of the scene lasted just 6 seconds, but it made quite an impression, while remaining completely innocent!
So while episode 3 of every season is usually kind of a downer, this episode broke the mold!