Enthusiasts of cosy crime shows such as Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise are being encouraged to discover a murder mystery drama centring on a big-city detective who makes the move to a compact coastal community.
Series based on novels
The cosy crime series draws from LR Wright's The Alberg and Cassandra Mysteries novels, following detective Karl Alberg (portrayed by Rossif Sutherland) as he settles into the seaside town of Gibsons.
While becoming embroiled in local murder investigations, he develops a connection with librarian Cassandra Lee (Kristin Kreuk), sparking a parallel romantic narrative. The Canadian production, Murder in a Small Town, arrives on Netflix within days, launching on 1st August, reports the Express.
Viewer reactions
Viewers have shared their reactions on IMDb reviews, with one noting "it leaves you with a warm feeling". They continued: "I agree that Murder in a Small Town has all the Hallmark Mystery vibes, but it's actually less stupid, less cheesy, more believable. It's a good old murder mystery in a nice cosy setting. But the writers are not lazy (probably because it's based on books), they don't think the viewers have one brain cell left."
Another viewer described it as "charming", stating: "If you're looking for a fast-paced, slick, hyper-modern drama packed with endless twists and a heavy dose of 'woke', Murder in a Small Town probably isn't for you. And that's exactly why I love it. This show is refreshingly old-school-simple, straightforward storytelling with heart, atmosphere, and just the right amount of mystery."
Critical reception and renewal
Back in May 2026, the series — which Good Housekeeping described as "Broadchurch meets Midsomer Murders" — secured a third season renewal.
Rotten Tomatoes provided the synopsis: "Karl Alberg moves to the idyllic coastal town of Gibsons to become the new police chief and soothe a psyche that has been battered by big-city police work. Unfortunately, the gentle paradise has more than its share of secrets, and Karl needs to call upon all the skills that made him a world-class detective in solving the murders that, even in this seemingly idyllic setting, continue to wash up on his shore. Cassandra, a local librarian, becomes Alberg's muse, foil and romantic interest."
Murder in a Small Town arrives on Netflix on August 1.
