Ep 2. Wives and Daughters Episode 2

Wives and Daughters Episode 2, titled "Conflicts," continues to follow the lives and relationships of the characters introduced in the debut episode. Set in the mid-19th century, the show centers around young Molly Gibson (Justine Waddell) and her widowed father, Dr. Gibson (Bill Paterson), as they navigate the challenges of blending their family with the Stratton family, led by Mrs. Hyacinth Kirkpatrick (Francesca Annis).

As the episode opens, tensions are high between Molly and her stepsister Cynthia (Keeley Hawes), who are both vying for the attention of handsome Mr. Roger Hamley (Anthony Howell). Despite their friendship, the girls are pitted against each other in their pursuit of the eligible bachelor, leading to a series of misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

Meanwhile, Dr. Gibson receives some unexpected news about his own romantic prospects when he is approached by an old flame, Mrs. Clare (Rosamund Pike), who has returned to town after a long absence. Though Dr. Gibson tries to play it cool, it is clear that Mrs. Clare still holds a strong pull over him, and his own feelings towards her threaten to complicate his relationship with his new wife.

Elsewhere, tensions continue to mount within the Stratton family, as Mrs. Kirkpatrick grows increasingly frustrated with her daughter, the selfish and manipulative Miss Osborne (Barbara Flynn). Mrs. Kirkpatrick sees an opportunity to further her own social standing by marrying Miss Osborne off to Lord Cumnor (Iain Glen), a wealthy but somewhat bumbling aristocrat. However, Miss Osborne has her own agenda, and she is not above using her charms to manipulate those around her, including her mother.

As the episode draws to a close, the various conflicts and misunderstandings seem poised to come to a head, as Molly's loyalty to Cynthia is tested, Dr. Gibson must confront his past with Mrs. Clare, and the Stratton family's scheming threatens to unravel. With its lush costumes and beautiful, pastoral settings, "Wives and Daughters" is a sumptuous period drama that is sure to delight fans of classic literature and romance.