Episode 1

There is no doubt that "Death in Paradise" has become one of my favorite shows in the last half a year, but I have had a feeling: the show was at its best when Sara Martins and Ben Miller were around. Not to say that Kris Marshalls era was bad, it wasn't, but started very unimpressively and got progressively better. DI Mooney's era though has been pretty good so far with only some entries of the eighth season being quite disappointing. The ninth season however starts with one of the best premieres of the show- "La Murder Le Diable'". It's not an amazing entry, but is very close to being one.

Let's start with good aspects first, shall we?

. The episode looks and sounds great as usual. The acting's strong all around. Elliot Cowan, Nell Hudson and especially Samuel West being very good in their roles.

. The murder mystery is hugely compelling with clever twists, turns, intriguing characters and with a very satisfying solution. Also liked the horror vibes the episode gives at times.

. The subplot about Mooney's new relationship with Anna was extremly sweet and, most of all, believable.

But..

. There are moments, when some clues are a bit too obvious for its own good.

Overall, a very good episode .

8,5/10 HK

Ardal O'Hanlon is as loveable as usual, and the island still looks lovely but thos is one of the most obvious and easily solved episodes yet. Plus I really could do without another awkward British romance.

I've been a fan of Death In Paradise since the very beginning and have (for the most part) enjoyed all the episodes. We've had some great actors as guest stars, some great stories, beautiful scenery. But the introduction of Dwayne's replacement has seen the series spiral downwards. The character of Ruby Patterson is truly irritating and pointless. Every scene with her detracts from the enjoyment of the show. Since her introduction, I have lost all enjoyment of the show. Get rid of her and replace her with Harry the lizard. He's far more of a valued member of the team.

Why didn't they do a handwriting survey to find the killer? This omission made the story less credible. Yet, the characters are generally likeable.

It is New Years Eve but celebrations are put on hold. The wife of a prominent tycoon Aaron McCormack has been found stabbed to death. There was a message left behind written in lipstick.

Aaron had a recent public argument with his estranged brother Donald McCormack who is having financial problems with his own business.

Donald is a suspect but a man with a devil's mask soon attacks him and a message in lipstick is also left behind.

Donald survives but it seems someone has a vendetta against the McCormacks.

A gruesome opening but Death in Paradise still manages the balance or murder, mystery, sunshine and humour. In this episode Jack Mooney tries to learn some dancing which causes havoc. There is also a beginning of a romance for him.