Ep 2. Secrets and Spies

In the second episode of season 12 of Midsomer Murders, titled "Secrets and Spies," Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby (played by Neil Dudgeon) and his loyal sidekick Sergeant Ben Jones (played by Jason Hughes) investigate a murder at the luxurious retreat, Haxby Park, in the quaint village of Marshwood.

The episode starts with a group of ex-spies, including Haxby Park's owner, Colonel John Fitzwilliam (played by Adrian Lukis), who gather together for a reunion. However, the peaceful reunion is disrupted when one of the attendees is found dead in the lake on the estate.

As Barnaby and Jones dig deeper into the intriguing case, they discover more about the victim and his connection to the other attendees of the reunion, leading them down a path filled with secrets, betrayals, and espionage.

The detectives quickly learn that the victim was not the only person to have met a fatal end, as they uncover a pattern of suspicious incidents that took place in the weeks leading up to the reunion. The case becomes more complex as they try to navigate the web of lies and half-truths the spies have created to keep their secrets hidden.

Adding to the mystery is the presence of another mysterious guest, a beautiful woman named 'Alice' (played by Sharon Small), who claims to be a journalist working on a story about the reunion. Barnaby and Jones are not convinced by her story, and they begin to suspect that she may have a more sinister motive for attending the reunion.

As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that Haxby Park is a hotbed of nefarious activity, and the detectives must tread carefully to avoid becoming entangled in the complex web of spies, secrets, and lies.

The episode is filled with the classic Midsomer Murders theme of quaint rural settings and eccentric characters. However, the addition of espionage and political intrigue adds a new level of intensity to the story, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery.

The chemistry between the lead characters, Barnaby and Jones, is as charming as ever, with their good-natured banter and astute investigative work driving the story forward. The guest performances, especially Lukis and Small, are also standout, adding depth and complexity to the plot.

Overall, "Secrets and Spies" is a thrilling, entertaining episode that adds a fresh twist to the beloved Midsomer Murders formula. It's a must-watch for fans of the series and a great introduction to those who are new to the show.