Jamie Klingler, publishing manager at ShortList Media, gives her verdict on the first episode of Serial season two:

If you are looking for a repeat of season one focusing on a cold case, you will be disappointed. Season two tells the story of Pfc. Bowe Bergdahl, who voluntarily left a remote army base in eastern Afghanistan and was subsequently held by the Taliban for over five years. The case is still currently the focus of a military investigation and Bergdahl has been charged with desertion and misbehaviour before the enemy. This could mean life in prison if he is convicted.

The first episode takes some getting in to, it’s about 14 minutes before the scene really starts to get set which included quite a bit of waffling about a child’s book and perspective which could use some editing down. It seems odd for him to try his case in the court of public opinion. Sarah Koenig seems sympathetic to Bergdahl in taking up his case for such a coveted spot; but at least in the first instance, I’m pretty sceptical. Mostly, I found myself feeling sorry for the other soldiers that were trying to find him.

Favourite line in it was Sarah’s “that’s me, calling the Taliban”. But I don’t think it was meant to be funny.

I will give it some time, but I'm not entranced with the initial episode.

Serial is back! Listen to season two right here