Are you looking to start a murder mystery series and don’t know where to begin? You’re in luck, because I’ve categorized some of the best ones I’ve seen, my thoughts on them, and where you can purchase/stream them. Disclaimer, these rankings are my opinion and I personally enjoyed watching all of these shows. Here are my top ten murder mystery shows ranked!

10. Sister Boniface Mysteries

Where: Britbox, Apple TV, Prime Video

Coming in at number ten is “Sister Boniface Mysteries,” a wholesome and heartwarming show which follows the collaboration between Sister Boniface and the Great Slaughter Police Department as they set off to solve the murders which occur in their town. Set in the 1960’s, the “Sister Boniface Mysteries” is a charming depiction of life (and death) in the rural English countryside. This show is about as light-hearted as murder mystery shows get. While it doesn’t idealize the murder at all, there is humor and cheerfulness involved in the crime-solving process. “Sister Boniface Mysteries” is a lovely show to watch if you have Britbox, Apple TV, or Prime Video!

9. Vera

Where: Britbox, Prime Video

“Vera” is a realistic, serious, and exciting show to watch, especially if you want something that’s unique compared to the classic English detective show. To be specific, the show is led by a middle aged/older woman, which is unusual because shows like this are almost completely led by men. Along with “Sister Boniface Mysteries,” “Vera” gives viewers a different perspective. It is fairly serious, but this tone is softened by the comforting Vera. She solves tragic and realistic crimes, and her lovely personality is clear through her work and how much she cares about the job. If you have Britbox or Prime Video, this is a wonderful show to watch!

8. Sherlock

Where: Pay to stream on Amazon Prime, etc, DVD

"Sherlock" is a fantastic show with a great array of actors in it. Some pretty familiar faces (especially for Marvel fans) lead the show as Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman star as Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. It is exciting to watch as the duo, who begin as roommates, grow into close friends and solve murders together. Personally, I thought that the cinematography was not my style but that it was definitely an entertaining watch! One of "Sherlock's" unique aspect which I loved was Moriarty, the consistent antagonist and Sherlock's nemesis. Not only was Moriarty played by an incredibly talented actor, but it was really enjoyable to watch the competition between two great minds. The show is really complex, and it's fun to follow Sherlock down many rabbit holes to solve crimes and save himself and his loved ones from dangerous situations.

7. Bones

Where: Hulu, DVD

My number seven show has to be “Bones.” This is surprising to me, as I was hooked while watching it, but I stopped watching mid season ten. If you’re looking for a long-running murder mystery which ties in science (specifically forensic anthropology!), huge character arcs, and exciting action scenes, “Bones” is absolutely the show for you. The only downside to “Bones” is that the character arcs are very, very slow. (Spoiler alerts!!!) I’m specifically talking about the slowest slow burn I’ve ever watched. If a show that spends a lot of time focusing on the personal lives of the characters sounds appealing to you, then this show is perfect. I thought that the actors were all fantastic and that the cases were all fresh and interesting. I also thought that interns, who switched off between episodes, added a freshness that most other shows do not have. I also enjoyed how there is often a larger plot going on alongside the cases of each individual episode. It was enthralling at the time and I couldn’t stop watching, but (BIG spoiler alert) I was turned off from “Bones” because my two favorite characters were killed off and from then I felt like it dragged a bit. That’s obviously my personal opinion though, and overall I think it’s a great show to watch if you have time to kill and don’t mind staying up late to keep on watching after a cliff-hanger!

6. Death in Paradise

Where: Britbox, Amazon Prime Video (pay for it on Google Play Movie, Apple TV, etc)

“Death in Paradise” is an uplifting, comedic, and laid back series! Set on the Caribbean Island of Saint Marie, the “Death in Paradise” locale transforms the classic English detective series. When Detective Richard Poole (a rather uptight detective from the English countryside) is sent to the island, it is comedic to see how he solves crimes while also becoming accustomed to a culture which is so different from his own. “Death in Paradise” boasts four endearing detectives (seriously, I’m not sure I can pick a favorite), talented and compassionate Detective Sergeants, and comedic yet sincere Officers. The show always has a team which is easy to love and who brings vitality and excitement to the crimes they solve. Episodes are not too long, and I highly recommend giving “Death in Paradise” a watch if you’re looking for a fun and heartwarming series!

5. NCIS

Where: Netflix

“NCIS” combines interesting crimes, exciting character development, and the whole secret government operations thing which many people (including myself) find to be mysterious and fascinating. Another great thing about this show is that it is still going, so there are plenty (and I mean plenty!) of episodes to watch. “NCIS” is also great because it combines intense moments with comedic and touching ones. Characters like DiNozzo and McGee consistently find a way to weave in lighthearted banter among episodes which can be heavy and laden with difficult subject matter. Also, like “Bones,” “NCIS” often has overarching plot lines which culminate in a string of episodes which are impossible to pause. The show is also unique because it is not strictly a detective show. Both “NCIS” and “Bones” are again comparable because they combine the murder mystery plot lines with government operations, creating a more international effect when compared to “small town” shows such as the revered “Midsomer Murders” or “Sister Boniface Mysteries.” In my opinion, “NCIS” is better than “Bones” though because, while the characters’ personal lives are developed, it is a little more realistic and (spoiler alert again) they didn’t create an endearing character only to kill them off (yes, I’m still mad about it!). Anyway, go give “NCIS” a watch if you haven’t already, it’s a fantastic show that deserves all of the kudos it gets!!!

4. Agatha Christie's Poirot

Where: Britbox, Acorn TV, PBS

I’m not sure where to begin! Hercule Poirot is by far my favorite detective. I grew up reading Agatha Christie’s Poirot novels, and was delighted to discover that there was a television show which depicted many of these stories (and new ones!). David Suchet is a tremendous actor who plays the iconic character just as I imagined him to be when reading the series. The show is a little older so the picture quality is not as pristine as it is in the more modern shows, but in my opinion that adds to the charm. Set in the art deco period (and featuring beautiful costumes, architecture, and scenery), this series is truly a comforting and thought-provoking watch. The storylines, mostly penned by the great Agatha Christie, are full of complexities which always leave me entertained and astonished. If you have Britbox, Acorn TV, PBS, or (what I did) want to buy the series on DVD, I absolutely recommend it!

3. The Dr. Blake Mysteries

Where: Britbox, Roku Premium

“The Dr. Blake Mysteries” deserves a spot at number three, and not just because I’m currently watching it now. In my opinion, everything about this show is great. It is set in the late 1950s in the Australian city of Ballarat. Maybe I’m a sucker for period pieces, but I think it’s so interesting to see how the characters solve crimes without the technology that so many of the modern shows have. I also love the characters and their relationships with one another. The writers for this show are fantastic, and it is clear that every character and scene has a great importance to the show as a whole. There is one main crime for every episode and often one or more side crimes (not murder, but the perpetrators are still unveiled of course). I like this because, while there is a satisfying end to every episode in terms of the murders, I am often compelled to watch another episode to see what happens with the main characters. I think there’s a perfect balance between crime and character development, and it is clear that the cast and crew are all very talented. The only issue I would like to address is the accusations against the main actor, Craig McLachlan. The Dr. Blake actor has been accused and acquitted of sexual harassment. It was pretty upsetting to find out that an actor who plays such a comforting character could make other actors so uncomfortable, however, I believe that I am going to respect the art and not the artist for this show. The character Dr. Blake is very progressive for his time, and goes out of his way to support oppressed people throughout the course of the series. This includes women characters who are being sexually harassed (ironic, I know). Anyway, I still think that “The Dr. Blake Mysteries” is a must-watch because it is clear how hard everyone in the cast and crew worked to make it so fantastic. Their hard work is abundantly clear and this show is definitely one of my favorites!

2. Midsomer Murders

Where: Acorn TV, Amazon Prime, Roku, others

If you consider yourself a murder mystery show fan and haven’t watched “Midsomer Murders,” you need to watch it right now! One of the longest running and most revered series not only in England but across the world, “Midsomer Murders” is so popular for a reason. The writers are phenomenal, and every episode features at least one unique, interesting, and often fantastical death. Although the series knowingly strays a little from reality, it is evident that the cast and crew are intentional about this and have good fun doing it! The staple characters, namely DCI Tom Barnaby and his wife Joyce, fill the show with laughter and good humor and they tackle tragic deaths every day. The DSs are also a fantastic addition to the show, and every one contributes in their own way (much like “Death in Paradise,” I can’t pick a favorite!). Also (had to add this in) the show starts off with a bang with “The Killings at Badger’s Drift.” This episode sets the stage for the fantastic 22 seasons (I’ve watched it all) and even if you don’t have the time to watch the entire thing, I highly recommend watching at least the first episode. Overall, the series is fun, witty, and satisfying to watch. I recently watched the 25th anniversary video that producers made to document the impact of the show, and it (firstly) was far greater than I realized and (secondly) that everyone always ends up asking the same question: “How are there any people left in Midsomer after all the murders?!” The answer: It’s a county, not a town, and that adds to the fun of the show. It is set in the picturesque English countryside, and allows viewers to detach from reality to watch a fun and exciting murder mystery. 

1. Monk

Where: Peacock TV

I’m going to end off these rankings with one of the most wholesome and uplifting shows I’ve ever seen (ever!), “Monk.” Starring one of the best actors I’ve ever seen in my life Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk, it was clear from the beginning that this series was one for the books. There are many tear-jerking moments in this show, especially concerning the obstacles that Monk has had to face after the tragic murder of his beloved wife, Trudy. However, it is lovely to see how he solves every crime while still grieving for his wife. This show made me laugh, cry, and wish that I was literally in it so that I could help out myself. Other endearing characters such as Sharona, Natalie, Randy, and Leland add plotlines for the show itself and friendships for Adrian, and it is clear that everyone in the series genuinely respects and cares for one another. Not to mention Monk’s hilarious feud with Harold Krenshaw, as the two vie for the title as their therapist’s favorite patient. This is genuinely the funniest show I’ve ever watched. I could say so much more, but I think it’s best if you go and watch it yourself. It’s a little difficult to get (I caught it on dvd), but in my opinion it is so, SO worth it. Also, the show was exquisitely wrapped up after eight terrific seasons. Some shows end abruptly or don’t tie up loose ends. The final episode left me crying both because I was so happy for the characters but also because I was devastated at its end. I genuinely looked forward to every night because I got to sit down and watch “Monk,” and I think that you will too!

So there you have it! The top 10 best murder mystery shows (in my opinion). If you have questions or comments about a show that was (or wasn't) on this list, feel free to reach out via the contact page! Thanks so much!