As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a gripping murder mystery to embrace the fall season. And if that mystery unfolds against the backdrop of a lush, moody landscape, all the better—especially as we bid farewell to those long, sun-drenched summer days. Enter Murder in a Small Town, Fox’s Canadian-American crime drama that’s as much about romance as it is about unraveling secrets. But here’s where it gets intriguing: the show’s idyllic small-town setting is anything but peaceful, and the line between love and danger is blurrier than you’d think.
Based on L.R. Wright’s beloved novel series, the show returned for its second season last month, bringing with it a fresh wave of crime scenes and simmering chemistry between Detective Karl Alberg (Rossif Sutherland) and librarian Cassandra Lee (Kristin Kreuk). Premiering in 2024, this series has quickly become a favorite for fans of atmospheric storytelling. But what’s the story behind the story? Let’s dive in.
What’s Murder in a Small Town Really About?
At first glance, the town Karl moves to seems like a serene escape from his fast-paced city life. But this is the part most people miss: beneath its tranquil surface lies a web of secrets that quickly upend Karl’s idyllic vision. As the new police chief, he’s thrust into a world of mysteries and murders, all while navigating a budding romance with Cassandra. It’s a delicate balance—one that keeps viewers hooked.
Where Was It Filmed? A Surprising Twist
If you’re like me, you’ve probably played armchair detective, trying to pinpoint a show’s filming location within minutes of watching. The architecture, the accents, the ecosystem—it’s all part of the fun. But here’s the twist: Murder in a Small Town isn’t just set in the charming Canadian town of Gibsons, British Columbia—it’s actually filmed there too. Yes, you read that right. The show’s picturesque backdrop is 100% authentic, right down to its population of 4,758. And get this: Gibsons is part of an area called “The Sunshine Coast,” a name that feels almost ironic given the show’s moody tone.
What’s New in Season 2? A Shift in the Storytelling
Executive producer Jeff Wachtel recently revealed that Season 2 takes a bold departure from the serial killer narrative of the first season. Instead, it introduces a season-long mystery involving multiple killings, with Karl and Cassandra investigating from different angles. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this shift a refreshing change or a missed opportunity to explore the complexities of a single antagonist? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
How to Watch: Your Binge-Watching Guide
Season 2 features 10 episodes—two more than the first season, hinting at even more drama to unpack. New episodes air every Tuesday at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on Fox, with streaming available the next day on Hulu. Here’s the full lineup:
- Episode 1: “Acts of Murder” – September 23
- Episode 2: “Blood Wedding” – September 30
- Episode 3: “Mother Love” – October 7
- Episode 4: “One Last Song” – October 14
- Episode 5: “Strangers Among Us” – October 21
- Episode 6: “Trust, But Verify” – October 28
- Episode 7: “This, That, and the Other Thing” – November 4
- Episode 8: “Masterpiece” – November 11
- Episode 9: “The Blades” – November 18
- Episode 10: “Nightshade” – November 25
If you’re new to Hulu, you can start with a 30-day free trial of their ad-supported plan ($9.99/month after). For an ad-free experience, it’s $18.99/month. And here’s a pro tip: consider bundling Hulu with Disney+ or Max for more streaming options at a lower cost. The Disney+ Bundle, for instance, starts at $10.99/month for ad-supported plans and goes up to $29.99/month for ad-free access to all three platforms.
Final Thoughts: A Show That Keeps You Guessing
Murder in a Small Town is more than just a murder mystery—it’s a story about secrets, romance, and the unexpected twists of small-town life. Whether you’re here for the crime, the chemistry, or the stunning Canadian backdrop, there’s something for everyone. But here’s the real question: does the show’s blend of love and danger work for you, or does it feel like too much of a stretch? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear your take!
