Episode 1

I don't think I've ever seen an episode of Death in Paradise begin with such a bang, it was like something from a horror film, a new direction for the often light mystery series.

That mask was gruesome looking, the horror undertones worked terrifically well here. Moments of silliness were at a minimum.

I thought Madeline was excellent, she has settled in incredibly well after starting off in somewhat prickly style. A terrific character. A great cast, Elliot Cowan, Ade Edmondson and Samuel West were great.

I've looked forward to this so much, it's been much publicised with the departure of Ardal, and they delivered, if it carries on in this form we're in for a treat.

I loved it, a very good mystery. 9/10

I agree with most, Ruby is painful to watch, and every scene she is in halts the flow of the story. This episode is no different. But still, even though it isn't the most difficult murder to solve, it is still enjoyable to watch the characters just being themselves. I Believe that Moody is by far.....by far....the best Inspector of the 3. I am afraid that when he leaves the show will spiral downward quickly. It has been a good run, but I imagine that season 10, if it does happen, will be the last. And probably for the best.

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

Someone is stabbed on NYE. I always thought New Year's Eve can be bad. This is especially true for the one whom got stabbed

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.