This show has been worthwhile... each episode has a unique plot, and the series is joined by a thread -- exploring the lives of people who are ancestors of the Romanoffs. The production design and song choice are quite effective in each episode.
Episode 1 was quite strong, especially the work of Marthe Keller.
Episode 2 was good, but the writing did not seem as dynamic. That said, the cast was fitting.
Episode 5 threw me for a loop... the actors' delivery fell flat, and the storyline felt deflated.
Episode 7 was crisply written, with palpable chemistry from the excellent cast. The plot delivers genuine tension and suspense.
Finally, I found Episode 8 to be riveting, well-written, and the cast was outstanding.