Ep 2. Matters of the Heart

In The Essex Serpent season 1 episode 2, titled Matters of the Heart, the story picks up where it left off in the previous episode. Cora, who has arrived at Aldwinter, continues her investigation into the strange occurrences in the area and befriends both locals and newcomers. The episode is filled with emotional moments that explore the themes of love and loss.

Cora meets Will Ransome, the local pastor, who is also struggling with his own set of problems. Despite their initial clash, the two find common ground as they bond over their shared grief. Cora is still mourning the death of her abusive husband, while Will is struggling to cope with the recent loss of his wife, Stella. The two of them develop a deep connection that borders on romantic, but Cora is hesitant to pursue anything further.

Meanwhile, another couple in Aldwinter is facing their own challenges. Luke Garrett, a doctor who has just moved into town, becomes smitten with Cora's friend Martha, who is married to George Spencer, the town's wealthy industrialist. Martha is drawn to Luke's kindness and charm, but she also loves her husband and is struggling to keep her marriage intact.

As Cora investigates the strange behavior of the villagers, she also discovers more about the legend of the Essex Serpent. She interviews people who claim to have seen the creature and tries to piece together any clues that could lead her to the truth. However, her quest is interrupted by a tragic event that shakes the town to its core. Without giving away any spoilers, the event is a turning point for many of the characters and sets the stage for the rest of the season.

Overall, The Essex Serpent season 1 episode 2 is an emotional and thought-provoking episode that builds on the momentum of the first installment. It explores the complexities of human relationships and juxtaposes them against the mystery of the Essex Serpent. The characters are well-crafted and the performances are outstanding. The episode is visually stunning, with gorgeous shots of the English countryside and a haunting score that adds to the atmosphere. Fans of historical dramas and supernatural mysteries will find a lot to love in this episode and the rest of the series.