I initially wrote this in response to a DVD review where the critic seemed very unimpressed. I've just seen episode 1 and it kicks off to quite a strong start. Sure, a fair number of characters are introduced, but they were all interesting ones. I found the forensic science elements fascinating, painstakingly laid out, and carefully communicated to the viewer. I look forward to watching the rest of the series, Scotland's answer to the neon-flashy CSI franchise (where everything there seems to happen at lightning speed and is easily forgettable, much like fast food). Co-series developer and head writer Amelia Bullmore was also one of the showrunners on the excellent British copper series, "Scott and Bailey". "Traces", episode 1 rates a 7/10 for me.
PS.
By the way, contrary to what another user reviewer ("Episode 1.1") here asserted, the author of the Shetland and Vera books is Ann Cleeves, not Val McDermid. The series protagonists created by Ms McDermid include journalist Lindsay Gordon, PI Kate Brannigan, clinical psychologist Tony Hill & DCI Carol Jordan, and DCI Karen Pirie.
PS.
By the way, contrary to what another user reviewer ("Episode 1.1") here asserted, the author of the Shetland and Vera books is Ann Cleeves, not Val McDermid. The series protagonists created by Ms McDermid include journalist Lindsay Gordon, PI Kate Brannigan, clinical psychologist Tony Hill & DCI Carol Jordan, and DCI Karen Pirie.