I think there's a problem with the writers -- the overall tone reminds me of the problems I had with Broadchurch -- I liked the first season of Broadchurch, but rapidly lost interest. It just wasn't all that compelling.
Interesting. People have only ever said nice thing about Broadchurch, but I never watched it... If this is a Chibnall-running-his-own-show issue, I guess we'll just have to wait out.

Also, there's a lack of humor and fun here. It feels rather forced.
Ooooh yes. The lack of humour is almost fatal. :(