I tend to give British mystery series a try just because so many of them are excellent. So I gave Dalgliesh a look. It is a fine show. The lead character is quiet and somewhat withdrawn due to a tragedy in his life a year earlier. I didn’t immediately take to him as I have with other detective team leaders like Vera or even DCI Banks. He came across at times as indecisive or passive. His assistant is a real jerk and hurt the investigation through his petty selfishness, but except for glaring at him at one point, Dalgliesh seemed unable to take control. Suspects and witnesses also showed no respect for him during interviews and conversations.

Some of this weakness or passive attitude might seem exaggerated, however, again due to his dealing with his ongoing grief. And Dalgliesh may well grow on me, so if the show is extended for another season I will give it another look.