Episode 7

As a long time viewer of Death in Paradise, the series had been progressively losing its lustre, though I continued to watch it out of habit. While I am by no means "woke," I cheered when a black detective finally became the local DI. The tired trope of the stereotypical Englishman out-of-place in a tropical clime was at long last retired in favor of a Londoner of Caribbean ancestry who merely missed watching live English football on TV.

After a decent Christmas special, however, I found the first few episodes disappointing. They began to improve from Episode 4, and this unusual episode broke the mold with an exceptional storyline that the season had been building towards: Was the DI's mother -- who had apparently accidentally drowned at sea in a storm while scattering her father's ashes -- actually murdered and, if so, why and how?

As fans of the show, we can suspend our disbelief at certain dramatic contrivances to enjoy the "whodunit" aspect of the show, which is invariably brought to a gratifying conclusion. Such was the case here.

But this episode was unusual in the number of suspects, as well as in the way the season's backstory was integrated into the murder mystery. In addition, the writing combined humor, a touching emotional resonance at appropriate moments with some clever detective work to solve a seemingly impossible case in a manner that made this exceptional episode stand out.

I absolutely loved this episode! It had me laughing and brought a few tears to my eyes as well. Don Gilet's incredible performance truly made me connect with his character.

This episode had a unique approach compared to the others, reminiscent of the one featuring Danny John-Jules when he faced someone from his past.

I appreciated how the storyline was woven throughout this season, culminating beautifully in this episode.

I like that they were able to make the story at least plausible and not as ludicrous as some other episodes.

Kudos to Don Gilet and the DIP team for their fantastic work on this episode!

Mervin begins investigating his mother's death, and one man presents very strongly as a potential suspect for her death, but Sterling Fox demands that that case is shut down, only Commissioner Patterson has the powers to keep the investigation alive.

It's been building and building, the story arc very nearly reaches its conclusion, arguably the best episode for ages, I thought this one was brilliant, Don Gilet really delivered, I hope he stays on for years to come, love Mervin.

This had a very fresh feel to it, stylistically and in terms of pacing and story, it just felt different. Scenes of Dorna on the water, those were actually pretty grim, my personal phobia.

Even Officer Rose didn't drive me insane here, imaginary donut an' all. Hopefully he's a bit more serious next time round.

Sterling Fox initially presents as all smiles and charm, but we get to see a bit of metal from him, he's not quite the fool we initially thought.

Best scene had to be Selwyn throwing his weight around, arguably Don Warrington's best showing for a while too, he was great.

Gerard Horan was excellent as Roy Palmer, wow that guy was a cool customer.

9/10.

The season has been building to this episode, and it did not disappoint! The emotions, the comaraderie, the suspense, and ultimately, the answering off so many questions. The story and the acting were superb! I have watched this series from the very beginning, and this episode is definitely one of the best! Why did Inspector Wilson go to Sainte Marie? Why was the commissioner removed after so many years of dedication to his profession? Why would the chief commissioner put someone in the the commissioner's place, who obviously had no ability to solve crimes or even recognize their importance? Those questions are all answered in this episode.