The main story line about the orphaned girl and the bitter old man was beautifully told with rich characters, good Directing and fine acting. The sets and scenery depicting rural farm life felt authentic. The Social Worker's story going the extra mile was touching. The characters were well developed and grew as the series went on.
Unfortunately, the 4 side stories were contrived, one-dimensional melodrama where everyone is always yelling although some real moral and ethical issues were discussed. Where the main story was rich and convincing, the rest felt unrealistic and a distraction. I found myself fast forwarding thru these scenes after a while. I would rate the main story an 8 but the side stories a 4 for a 6 average. Your mileage may vary.
Unfortunately, the 4 side stories were contrived, one-dimensional melodrama where everyone is always yelling although some real moral and ethical issues were discussed. Where the main story was rich and convincing, the rest felt unrealistic and a distraction. I found myself fast forwarding thru these scenes after a while. I would rate the main story an 8 but the side stories a 4 for a 6 average. Your mileage may vary.