Black Doves are spies. The secrets they obtain are sold to the highest bidder.

When the Chinese ambassador in London is found dead, Helen (Keira Knightley), wife of the defence secretary, wants to know why her lover is among the trail of seemingly unconnected people that are subsequently assassinated.

A Black Dove operative herself, Helen realises her identity is in danger with potentially blown covers and assassins on her heels, so Sam (Ben Wishaw), an old mercenary friend, is called back to London to protect her.

Helen embarks on a quest for truth and vengeance, juggling her role as a spy, wife and mother of two, all the time maneuvering around the London underworld and her feelings for her boyfriend.

Her husband, who seems to be the most likely to take over 10 Downing Street, has to deal with the Chinese blaming the CIA for the death of their ambassador, a situation threatening to escalate into a full-fledged war.

In the meantime, Sam – a professional hitman trying to do the right thing while blowing holes in people’s heads – is having a hard time keeping Helen alive as things become more complicated. He also has to deal with his own relationship with ex-partner Michael, whom he abandoned when things got ugly workwise a few years back.

In the midst of the carnage that ensues, against a Christmassy backdrop, the ambassador’s daughter, who seems to be the missing piece of the puzzle, vanishes.

Let us not forget Reed (Sarah Lancashire), the private espionage agency’s boss, a pillar of ice and keeper of secrets, which she then sells, of course, never really disclosing whose side she is on.

Thrilling twists and a good sense of humour – dark, naturally – make this Netflix series gleefully reckless, with a string of cameos to look out for.

A second season has already been confirmed.