Manville and mays unravel a deadly literary mystery

Lesley Manville’s latest role is a masterclass in understated tension, and Magpie Murders, a BBC thriller, delivers a twisty descent into a vanished author’s final, unfinished novel. It’s a dark, deceptively simple affair that grips you from the first page – or, in this case, the first episode.

A missing chapter, a dead author

The series centers around Susan Ryeland (Manville), a sharp-witted editor who inherits a perplexing manuscript from the recently deceased Alan Conway, a bestselling novelist. When the final chapter vanishes and Conway himself is found dead, Ryeland finds herself embroiled in a genuinely unsettling investigation, pulling her into a world of literary obsession and buried secrets. It’s a premise ripe with potential, and the execution is remarkably assured.

Daniel Mays, a reliably excellent character actor, plays two distinct roles: a detective grappling with a real-world case and a shadowy figure within Conway's fictional world. The supporting cast, bolstered by the formidable Tim McMullan as Atticus Pünd – a nod to Agatha Christie’s detective – and Conleth Hill as the author himself, adds layers of intrigue. Expect a meticulously constructed puzzle, where every clue feels deliberate and every character harbors a secret.

Magpie Murders isn’t a flashy production; its strength lies in the narrative and the performances. Manville, in particular, is exquisite, conveying a quiet intelligence and simmering anxiety with subtle gestures and precisely chosen words. It’s a showcase for her considerable talent, and one that shouldn’t be missed.

If you're looking for a series that demands your attention and rewards close observation, this is it. Forget binge-watching; this is a story best consumed in a single, uninterrupted session.

Where to watch

All six episodes of Magpie Murders are currently available exclusively on BBC iPlayer. Don't let the quiet elegance fool you – this is a thriller that will stay with you long after the credits roll.