The Commander is a British mystery/crime/drama series starring Amanda Burton (Midsomer Murders, Inspector Morse, Silent Witness) as the principal character, Commander Clare Blake. Commander Blake has risen to the top of her profession in the male-dominated Metropolitan Police Service and is now the head of the serious crimes unit. The female commander is no pushover: she is a complex character, complete with faults and a very realistic life. Commander Blake's superb detective skills and ability to manipulate her fellow workers who have it in for her, keep her ahead of the pack. Commander Blake previously arrested James Lampton for murder. He was subsequently sentenced to life in prison but is now out on parole and is a successful author with a best-selling book. Blake's colleagues however, especially DCI Mike Hedges, believe Lampton is responsible for another murder and are out to prove his guilt. Things become complicated when Commander Blake and Lampton become intimate and the question arises whether he is being honest with her or is simply a master manipulator. Commander Clare Blake feels the heat of these high-profile cases and more while proving herself to the Police Service. The series is written by the prolific Lynda LaPlante (Prime Suspect and many others).