‘The Pursuit of Love’ recap: What happened in Episode 1?

The BBC’s new adaptation of The Pursuit of Love began tonight!

The three-part mini-series is based on the first of Nancy Mitford’s comedic trilogy of books.

Set in Europe between the two World Wars, The Pursuit of Love follows the adventures and misadventures of the charismatic and fearless Linda Radlett, played by Lily James (Downton Abbey), and her best friend and cousin Fanny Logan, played by Emily Beecham (Cruella).

The romantic comedy-drama also stars Dominic West (Les Misérables), Dolly Wells (Dracula), Andrew Scott (Sherlock), Shazad Latif (Penny Dreadful), and Freddie Fox (White House Farm).

 

Here’s a plot recap for the opening episode, which aired on BBC One at 9pm on Sunday 9th May 2021:

1920s, Oxfordshire. On the brink of adulthood, Linda Radlett (Lily James) and her beloved cousin Fanny Logan (Emily Beecham) are stuck in the countryside, impatiently waiting for life to begin so they can escape the confines of Alconleigh.

Linda, who has lived her life under the terrifying regime of Uncle Matthew (Dominic West), dreams of excitement and adventure.

But Fanny, abandoned by her mother The Bolter (Emily Mortimer) and raised by her Aunt Emily (Annabel Mullion), is more concerned with comfort and stability.

When their glamorous neighbour Lord Merlin (Andrew Scott) brings Tony Kroesig (Freddie Fox) to their coming out ball, Linda falls hopelessly in love with him.

However, sensing Fanny’s disapproval of the match, it’s not long before Linda pushes Fanny away and leaves her beloved cousin feeling left behind.

Nancy Mitford’s original novel is available on Amazon.