Liz O'Neill

Totally lacks authenticity and credibility. There is nothing plausible about a potty mouthed, scruffy and unfriendly US Ambassador to Britain. It has a constant fast moving plot which doesn’t take a breath so makes it impossible to develop characters and a nuanced plot. It’s all rapid fire and jumps from scene to scene , location to location with irritating haste. Added to this the acting is contrived and painful - gave up after 3 episodes.

Oh dear, it’s a clumsy mix of Bridget Jones Diary and Bridgerton and the result is woeful with the notable exception of Richard E Grant who has the charm, looks and talent to deliver a character true to book.

Starts well with an excellent premise and plot. Good suspense, the, set, props and costumes effectively portray the period and political backdrop. However the acting, continuity and authenticity falter as the story progresses and the plot becomes implausible . There is some incredibly wooden and unconvincing acting across the board and it becomes harder and harder to believe. The lead actress has only one style and remains poised and elegant at all times which would be great if it was called for but it isn’t- never a hair out of place or a mark on her clothing even when scrabbling over mountains or in derelict buildings. This just doesn’t maintain its strong start.