Vera

Very few long-running detective shows I like better than Vera. Perhaps it's because she is the only detective out there that I can somewhat identify with. Vera Stanhope is a middle-aged woman, with no kids, and a dubious dress sense. She is always wearing a brown ankle-length trench coat, a green floppy hat, and a wine red scarf. Her trusty old Land Rover Defender that she's unwilling to give up for something newer, and her somewhat cranky personality, her obsession with work, and a sharp mind for human nature, are other characteristics that make her truly unique. But what truly sets her apart is her dogged determination to find the culprits and to find justice for the victims, which is what makes this series so entertaining.

There are currently 10 series out, and an eleventh one in the making. Academy Award nominee and BAFTA actress Brenda Blethyn portrays an exceptional detective, who in spite of her own challenges, has her heart in the right place, and roots for the underdog. Good writing, credible characters, and decent plots: the unconventional Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope from the Northumberland City Police is bound to delight and intrigue with her wit and courage: she is not afraid to call it as she sees it.  I secretly hope to be a bit more like Vera. 

If you don't have Britbox, you can also watch episodes through Amazon Prime. 

The series stand more or less on themselves, but if you can start from the beginning (2011), I recommend it. Make yourself a pot of tea, grab a handful of cookies and snuggle up. Aye pet, it's going to be a great year!

Love Vera's look? This is what I found on Amazon: 

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