I generally like period pieces because they usually build their characters and create suspense so well. Unfortunately, this series is an exception to this rule. There are too many characters and story lines for the viewer to care about, if they manage to keep track of them all. Moreover, the stories are *so* predictable - it's infuriating!! I mean *everybody* either dies or gets married, and the only source of suspense is the question which will it be this time. On a positive note, the acting is outstanding, I especially enjoyed the performance of the actress who plays Mary Smith. But this is not enough!! Indeed the great acting makes the screenplay's faults appear all the more distinct because just when you are persuaded that some character is really struggling with some emotion (for example Sophie's guilt after Walter's death or Matty's fear after Debora's death) they promptly forget all about it for no apparent reason. In conclusion, it won't be a great shame to skip this one, even if you're one who enjoys period films.
