Protagonist DCI Adam Dalgliesh brought writer P.D. James instant acclaim in her 1962 debut novel, Cover her Face. This poet-detective appeared in 14 James novels through 2008 with cameos in two Cordelia Gray stories.
Now in season 3, the ACORN series based on these stories deepens. Dalgliesh has a settled depth even as he crams a business card from the lovely Emma Lavenham into his glove compartment. This attractive and mature woman has invited him to a showing. Will the widowed Dalgliesh finally move forward?
Series 3 is made of three two-part episodes: “Death in Holy Order,” “Cover Her Face,” and “Devices and Desires.” Each run for about an hour.
Two familiar DS characters join Dalgliesh from previous seasons: now DCI Kate Miskin (Carlyss Peer) and DS Daniel Tarrant (Alistair Brammer). The rapport between Dalgliesh and Miskin is still tender. She pokes carefully around his grief and urges him forward. She has moved forward, and we see how well she is flourishing.
Bertie Carvel again submits a powerfully understated performance. There is such a held-breath stillness to him as he listens and looks. The only movement in his face is his furrowing brow. This actor is known for fine British dramas like Doctor Foster and The Crown. Series 3 also showcases Carvel’s directing debut.
Cover her Face has been showcased in film (1985) and radio (1993) with the likes of Hugh Grant.
P.D. James was a British life peer who was 42 when Cover Her Face was published. Today she’s also known for her last full novel, Death Comes to Pemberly. She died in 2014.
The moody darkness and violence of this production makes it suitable viewing for adults only. (Rated TV-MA, ACORN TV)
About the Author
Cynthia Beach authored the 2024 novel, The Surface of Water, and the writing book, Creative Juices for Writers. She co-directs Scriptoria Workshop with Newbery-winner Gary Schmidt. In 2025-6, she will serve as Artist in Residence in Dundee, Scotland.