Ep 1. The Man in the Shadows

In Father Brown season 3 episode 1, titled "The Man in the Shadows," we see the beloved Catholic priest return to his crime-solving duties in the quaint village of Kembleford. This episode finds Father Brown investigating the death of a wealthy businessman, Sir Malcolm, who is found dead in his estate's gardens.

Although it appears to be a natural death at first, parishioner Agnes Fernwood believes that it is a homicide and asks Father Brown for help. Father Brown agrees to look into the matter, and with the help of Inspector Sullivan and Lady Felicia, they begin their investigation. They quickly discover that Sir Malcolm had many enemies, including his own son and a neighbor who had a longstanding feud with him.

However, the investigation takes a surprising turn when they find a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows, who seems to be tracking their every move. As the investigation deepens, the identity of the shadowy figure becomes the center of their inquiries, and they discover that not everything is as it seems.

As Father Brown and his companions begin to unravel the complicated case, they encounter a wide array of suspects and clues that take them down various paths. From the extravagant ballrooms of the upper class to the dingy pubs of the working class, Father Brown and his team follow the clues to solve the mystery of Sir Malcolm's death.

The episode is filled with the show's signature moments of humor, intrigue, and suspense. But it is also a moment of growth for our titular character, as he confronts some deeply personal issues that forces him to reflect on his life's purpose as a Catholic priest.

Overall, "The Man in the Shadows" is an excellent start to the third season of Father Brown. It is a fantastic mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end, while also shedding light on the delightful characters that we have come to love over the years. Whether you are a fan of the show or a newcomer, this episode is sure to entertain.