Continuing our UK TV Murder Mystery Season, this week brings a deliciously satisfying return with the second series of Acorn TV’s Recipes for Love and Murder. Maria Doyle Kennedy once again slips effortlessly into the role of Tannie Maria, the food-loving agony aunt with a knack for solving crimes, proving that murder and meals go hand in hand more often than you’d think.
Picking up in the picturesque town of Eden, South Africa, series two reunites us with Maria’s intrepid sidekick, journalist Jessie September (Kylie Fisher), and the unflappable Detective Khaya Meyer (Tony Kgoroge). Together, this trio brings warmth, wit, and plenty of curiosity as they unravel a fresh set of chilling cases simmering just beneath Eden’s tranquil surface.
But don’t expect a simple reheat of last season’s formula. Series two adds some unexpected spice to the pot with the arrival of Maria’s estranged ex-sister-in-law Aileen (Robyn Scott) and her husband, Detective Gordon McClintock (Richard Wright-Firth). Their sudden appearance stirs up painful memories and unresolved questions from Maria’s past—particularly surrounding the mysterious deaths in her family, which may not be as settled as once thought.
The intrigue only deepens when a series of unexplained and destructive fires begin to spread through Eden, sparking an investigation that forces the characters to confront hidden truths about the town—and themselves. With suspicion hanging in the smoky air and secrets smouldering just beneath the surface, the stakes are higher and more personal than ever.
As the investigation intensifies the show doesn’t shy away from tackling serious themes, but it does so with a gentle touch, balancing tension and tenderness in equal measure. Visually, Recipes for Love and Murder remains a feast for the eyes. The sun-drenched landscapes of the Karoo region offer a stunning contrast to the darkness of the crimes being investigated, while the on-screen dishes—from comforting stews to rich desserts—continue to evoke a sense of home, tradition, and healing.
This new season is not only a compelling continuation of the story but an evolution. It raises the emotional and narrative stakes while keeping the same warm heart that made the first season so beloved. Full of richly drawn characters, intricate mysteries, and just the right dash of romance, Recipes for Love and Murder series two is a perfect blend of comfort and suspense.
Whether you’re here for the slow-burn tension, the irresistible charm of the characters, or simply to see what’s cooking next in Eden, this season won’t disappoint. It’s a mouthwatering mystery you’ll want to savour—and one that will leave you hungry for more.
