Netflix’s Hidden-Gem Detective Drama Combines the Coastal Beauty of Broadchurch With the Twisty Mysteries of Midsomer Murders — And Both Seasons Are Ready to Binge
If you love the atmospheric coastal mysteries of Broadchurch and the small-town secrets of Midsomer Murders, there’s another detective drama worth adding to your watchlist.
Murder in a Small Town, which premiered in 2024, follows an experienced detective who leaves the pressures of big-city policing behind, hoping to find a quieter life in a picturesque Canadian harbour town.
Unfortunately, his peaceful new surroundings turn out to be anything but ordinary.
Starring Rossif Sutherland and Kristin Kreuk, the series combines murder investigations, complicated relationships and beautiful coastal scenery. With two seasons available on Netflix, it’s an appealing choice for a crime-drama binge.
What Is Murder in a Small Town About?
The story centres on Karl Alberg, played by Rossif Sutherland, a detective who relocates from Minneapolis to a small coastal community in Canada.
After years of demanding police work, Karl hopes the move will offer him a fresh start and some much-needed peace.
Instead, he discovers a community hiding more than its share of troubling secrets.
As serious crimes begin to emerge, Karl must rely on his investigative experience to uncover the truth behind a succession of mysterious deaths.
However, the series isn’t solely concerned with police investigations.
Karl also develops a relationship with Cassandra Lee, a local librarian played by Kristin Kreuk, whose presence brings warmth and romance to the darker storyline.
Their connection provides an emotional counterbalance to the unsettling cases Karl encounters.
A Detective Who Takes a Different Approach
One of the show’s distinguishing features is its central character.
Unlike the intimidating detectives often seen in crime dramas, Karl prefers to understand people rather than rely on the authority of his badge.
Speaking to Deadline, Sutherland explained that he was initially reluctant to audition because he had already portrayed several detectives.
What eventually attracted him was Karl’s humanity and his ability to encourage people to reveal the truth through compassion.
That approach helps give Murder in a Small Town a different atmosphere from more aggressive police procedurals.
Who Stars in the Series?
Rossif Sutherland, known for Three Pines, leads the cast as Karl Alberg, while Smallville actress Kristin Kreuk plays Cassandra Lee.
The supporting cast includes Mya Lowe as Corporal Edwina Yen, Aaron Douglas as Sid Sokolowski and Cassandra Sawtell as Steph Alberg.
Fritzy-Klevans Destine portrays Andy Kendrick, with Dakota Guppy appearing as Holly Alberg.
Season two introduces additional performers, including Marcia Gay Harden as Christine Holman, Bethany Brown as Laila Jackson and Jodelle Ferland as Vanessa.
The combination of recurring characters and new arrivals allows the series to expand its community while maintaining its central relationships.
Why It’s Worth Watching
Murder in a Small Town offers a balance between traditional detective storytelling and a more relaxed, character-driven atmosphere.
Its coastal setting provides a striking backdrop, while the mysteries reveal the darker realities beneath the town’s seemingly peaceful surface.
The relationship between Karl and Cassandra also gives the drama a lighter dimension without removing the tension from its investigations.
For viewers who enjoy Broadchurch, Shetland or Midsomer Murders, the mixture of scenery, secrets and detective work will feel familiar.
Both seasons of Murder in a Small Town are listed as available on Netflix, although streaming availability can vary by country.
With its picturesque setting, engaging lead performances and a steady supply of mysteries, this lesser-known crime drama offers plenty to enjoy for anyone searching for their next detective series.