Murder Most Puzzling

The writing is just not there. I am always happy when finding series of this type, crime solving with a light heart and elements of humor makes my heart sing after I got tired of so many years of twisted plots or real life crime, these days I want light and funny, so this, especially lead by Phyllis Logan whom I love dearly, I was really looking forward to. The idea is great, the cast, or most of them at least, is great, but when the writing sticks to strict on stereotyped characters that keep falling into the same actions.... well, it REALLY, really gets on my nerves. I enjoyed the 1st episode even though it was obvious that it was falling on stereotypes, like for example the policeman reminded me of Father Brown one, sooooooo many episodes (series even!) kept repeating the same lines, same attitude..... now watching the second episode I had to stop in the first quarter of it...frustrating, so much that it makes Phyllis Logan's character irritating.... oh well.... maybe the writers will modify and not let them fall into the irritating mode they are at the moment, hope is the last thing we loose, someone said but, like another reviewer said, please PRETTY PLEASE, get Phyllis Logan a role at the level of her marvellous talent.

Like the cast, the story lines were plausible and in general a cut above the average UK murder mystery genre. I must admit that genre is becoming a bit too crowded, so its nice to see something a bit different. Also, lovely to see the main character is an older woman. Also, macho malea always get in the way, don't they. I thought her obscure old Japanese sports car was great. But, at times, that was silly as its too distinctive in a small town/city. Only character who gets up my nose is the mayor. Not that he's bolshie, just his interactions with the senior detective are pretty much implausible. I'm sure in real life the Chief Constable would tell him to **** off.

To everyone who says it's a rip-off or copy of some other show. There's a book series about the Puzzle Lady. First book is an adaptation of the book printed back in 2000!

I haven't read it, but loved the first episode so much that I ordered the book (author is Parnell Hall if anyone is interested).

I'd compare this to The Marlow Murder Club, but Murder Most Puzzling is much, much smarter. And less ridiculous.

It's a cute cozy mystery with fun characters and pretty solid mystery. Small town, quirky protagonist (Phyllis Logan is fantastic, so is Charlotte Hope who plays her niece), murders are not that gruesome. Just what I wanted this cold evening.

Looking forward to the next episode!

Really enjoyed this.

Lighthearted and amusing. Lifted out of the humdrum by good characterization and fine acting by the ensemble cast. Phyllis Logan has a ball with the leading role but all the supporting roles have interesting back stories and play their parts with equal enthusiasm.

It's clear that trouble has been taken to make this series more than just a Sunday evening-style cliche. I find myself really looking forward to the next episode to find out more about the characters rather than just watching the next case. I hope it gets good enough viewing figures for a second series. I'm sure I'd watch it.

Cora Felton is the nation's darling when it comes to puzzles, she's famed for her cryptic clues and her biscuits, but when she moves to Bakerbury, she finds a new interest, solving murders.

It's billed as Murder, she wrote meets Marple, and I get that, there are shades of both, she's definitely something of a busybody, she's sharp and intelligent, daring, but blunt and sometimes lacking in sensitivity.

It's a lovely, light hearted series, it is perfect viewing for a Sunday evening. ITV have dropped the ball with the ninety minute one off dramas, with this and Ellis, Channel 5 are delivering, long may both continue.

Phyllis Logan is greet as Cora, she adds a lot of charisma, she brings a touch of humour, nice to see Logan leading a show. I just love that she's a bit of a fraud and loves a drink, these days it's all yoga and mineral water, it makes a nice change.

Adam Best us quality as DI Hooper, I love that he doesn't play the big man, he's just a down to earth copper.

It's mad me me want to read the books, these are lovely adaptations. Don't go expecting anything heavy or serious, it's just nice and easy, intriguing viewing.

8/10.