Ep 3. The Moth Catcher

DCI Vera Stanhope returns for the third episode of season 6 with "The Moth Catcher." Set in Northumberland, England, a body has been found at the scene of a devastated house, and Vera is called to lead the investigation. The victim is identified as the house's owner, Margaret Kraszewski, a recently retired botanist who was living alone after her husband died. While the cause of death is unclear, Vera discovers that someone had broken into Margaret's house.

With her team by her side, Vera investigates the case, piecing together clues to find out what happened the night of Margaret's death. Along the way, they meet local residents, including the enigmatic Graham Cleethorpes, who claims to have seen a man running away from the house on the night of Margaret’s murder. However, there are discrepancies in his statement that complicate the investigation.

As the detectives dig deeper, they discover that Margaret had been the victim of a burglary before her death. Vera believes that the two incidents are connected, and she embarks on a mission to find the burglar and the killer.

With twists and turns at every corner, "The Moth Catcher" keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Vera and her team must use their expertise and intuition to uncover the truth, but they must also contend with their own personal demons and tensions within the team.

As always, Brenda Blethyn's portrayal of Vera is fantastic. Her character is tough, uncompromising, and fiercely driven to get to the bottom of the case but she is also vulnerable, with a soft spot for the victims. The supporting cast is equally talented, with strong performances from David Leon as Vera's trusted assistant DS Joe Ashworth and Jon Morrison as DC Kenny Lockhart.

The beautiful landscape of Northumberland is also a character in its own right. The show makes excellent use of the countryside, showcasing the wild beauty of the area as well as the impact that isolation can have on the residents.

Overall, "The Moth Catcher" is a strong addition to the Vera series. The intriguing storyline combined with excellent performances from the cast and stunning scenery make for a gripping episode. Fans of the show will not be disappointed.