For production values (cinematography, directing, acting, casting, etc especially the period settings and wardrobes) this is a top notch series. Absolutely top notch. As for the plots, well... they are based on Christie mysteries - which you either like or not. The characters are over-the-top and the whole thing is done with humor in mind. However, I've begun (after the 3rd episode) to feel that the humor has a certain cruelty behind it which is putting me off. Took me awhile to sense this. For example, the Marlene character - who is a sort of 'dumb blonde' stereotype (and extremely well acted) I'm beginning to see as almost mentally handicapped, and feeling great sympathy and sadness for her, and just can't bring myself to laugh at her, despite the intention of the writers/producers. The Alice character is very, very likeable - which
is why Swan's constant derision of her to her face - putting her down in a very crude, unsubtle ways - accentuates his coldness. Of course, his coldness, his male model handsomeness, his creaseless suit is his essence - a caricature of a male chauvinist cop. Again, part of the humor. But I feel bad about myself whenever I find myself laughing at his verbal cruelty to Alice. In his defense, he doesn't deride Marlene, but is extremely patronizing to her. But other reviewers have praised Season 2 ,,, so maybe I'll skip ahead to that season and see if this cruelty is somehow eliminated.