Ep 3. Cold River

Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope is back on her crime-solving game in the third episode of the ninth season of Vera, titled "Cold River." The episode opens with a grizzly discovery: the body of a young woman is found floating in a river. The victim is soon identified as Tamsin, a 21-year-old student who had been missing for several days.

As Vera and her team begin the investigation, they discover that Tamsin was living in a house share with several other students. Her flatmates are brought in for questioning, and Vera immediately senses that something is off with one of them, a young man named Jack. Despite his claims of innocence, Vera and her team can't shake the feeling that he knows more than he's letting on.

As the investigation progresses, Vera and her team begin to piece together a complex web of relationships and motivations that eventually leads them to the murderer. Along the way, viewers are taken on a journey of twists and turns, as false leads and red herrings keep the detectives guessing until the very end.

True to form, "Cold River" is a gripping and atmospheric crime drama that makes the most of its Northumberland setting. Vera's keen eye for detail and her no-nonsense approach to police work are on full display, as she dives deep into the lives and secrets of those connected to the victim. The show's trademark slow-burn pacing allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the mystery, and the stunning cinematography captures the bleak beauty of the Northumberland countryside.

As always, Brenda Blethyn shines as the titular Vera. Her portrayal of the dogged detective is nuanced and believable, and her chemistry with the rest of the cast is a joy to watch. Supporting players such as Kenny Doughty (who plays Vera's loyal sidekick Aiden) and Jon Morrison (who plays the dry-witted DC Kenny Lockhart) are also strong, bringing their own unique energy to the show.

Overall, "Cold River" is another standout episode in what has become one of the best crime dramas on television. Fans of the show will undoubtedly be satisfied by the tight plotting, compelling characters, and killer twists that make Vera such a satisfying watch. And for those new to the series, this episode serves as a perfect introduction to the world and characters of Vera. Don't miss it!