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This is an updated or modernized version of the original Inspector Lynley Mysteries by American novelist Elizabeth George. The original series played up the class differences between Detective Inspector Thomas Lynley and his assistant Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers. It exists in this series but to a lesser extent, as Lynley is heir to an earldom, he isn't an earl. Lynley had a posh upbringing, is an Oxford University law graduate (Balliol College) and drives a classic Jensen Interceptor.

A lot of middle class students attend Oxford and Cambridge universities, more than in past times. The lead of this series Leo Suter is an Oxford University graduate. Commander Peter Loughborough who headed the Royalty Protection branch of London's Metropolitan Police (Met/Scotland Yard) was the 7th Earl of Rosslyn. He was said to be Queen Elizabeth II's favorite policeman.

This isn't a "Grace" or a "Vera", but it's good. No major flaws in the script and the characters are believable. The perceived class conflict between Lynley and Havers in the first episode along with Lynley's conflict with his boss DCI Nies over some unknown past event, is really enough. But then there is Havers reputation among her colleagues and her blow up with her former boss.

I like the casting of Leo Suter, Sofia Barclay and Danny Mays. Leo Suter is more than eye candy, he can act. Mays also plays a copper in the new film "The Thursday Murder Club". The shooting locations in Ireland look just like the English countryside. I look forward to viewing the rest of the series.

There are some good Canadian crime dramas like "Hudson & Rex", "Wild Cards" and "Saint-Pierre", but "Allegiance" isn't one of them. A series depends on the lead actor and Supinder Wraich doesn't have the acting skills and experience to lead this crime drama. Who and why was this drama green lit? It actually has some really good supporting cast who have acting skills and experience and they keep it from being a total mess.

The premise of the first episode doesn't pass the smell test, it's not believable that the father of the top candidate is the minister of public safety and he gets arrested for treason. Who thought this one up? I'll skip the rest of the series. I gave it a "4" rating for the supporting cast and beautiful BC.

Ireland is now a wealthy European country that's making more and more TV shows. So far the shows I've seen aren't up to par with British crime dramas, they aren't a "Grace", a "Vera" or a "Shetland" in terms of scripts or acting. The plot of "Irish Blood" is cliched, it's been done before. I have no problem with the cast, Irish actors are right up there with British actors in terms of skills.

The show has gotten a lot of hype in the media, but it's just hype there is no substance. Ireland as always is beautiful as the location for any film or TV show. I made it through episode 1 and called it quits, enough for me.