Ep 1. Series 2, Episode 1

Set in the fast-paced world of the London legal circuit, Silk is a thrilling legal drama that follows the professional and personal challenges of a group of barristers as they navigate the cutthroat world of the British legal system. In series 2, episode 1, viewers are treated to an exciting new chapter in the lives of the characters as they gear up for their next big legal battle.

The episode opens with Martha Costello QC (Maxine Peake) returning to work after a year away. Martha has been on sabbatical, and she's eager to get back to work and pick up where she left off. However, she quickly discovers that things have changed in her absence. Her former pupil, Clive Reader (Rupert Penry-Jones), is now a rising star in the chambers, and he's been given some of her most high-profile cases. To make matters worse, Martha's mentor, Patrick (Neil Stuke), has been sidelined by a heart attack and is out of commission.

Despite this rocky start, Martha is determined to prove that she's still one of the best barristers in London. Her first case back is a challenging one, as she's been asked to represent a group of whistleblowers who have uncovered a major scandal in the healthcare industry. The case is complex, and there are many moving parts, but Martha is up to the challenge. She teams up with a new member of the chambers, Nick Slade (Tom Hughes), who brings a fresh perspective to the case.

As Martha and Nick prepare for their case, they face many obstacles along the way. They encounter resistance from the other side, who are determined to keep the scandal under wraps. They also struggle to get their own witnesses to testify, as many of them are afraid of reprisals from their employers. Through it all, Martha and Nick remain determined to win the case and expose the truth.

Meanwhile, Clive Reader is also facing his own set of challenges. He's been asked to represent a high-profile defendant in a major fraud case, but he quickly realizes that the case is not as clear-cut as it seems. To make matters worse, he's also dealing with personal issues, as his marriage is falling apart and he's struggling to maintain a work-life balance.

As the episode progresses, Martha and Nick's case takes a dramatic turn. They uncover new evidence that sheds light on the true extent of the scandal, and they're forced to make some tough decisions about how to proceed. Meanwhile, Clive's case takes an unexpected twist, and he's forced to make some hard choices about whether to stick to his principles or do what it takes to win.

Overall, series 2, episode 1 of Silk is a thrilling start to the new season. Viewers are treated to a gripping legal drama that explores complex ethical and personal issues. The episode is well-written and tightly paced, and the performances from the cast are excellent. Fans of the show will be not be disappointed, while newcomers will find plenty to enjoy as well. All in all, Silk is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good legal drama.