Castle: Buddy cop show with a twist

Richard Castle's list of best sellers is long and impressive. And the apparent inspiration of a murder. Thanks to Kate Beckett's long fandom, she instantly recognizes the scene as coming from one of Castle's book, causing Castle to be called in for questioning.

Now Castle obviously didn't commit (that) crime, but when they do catch the bad guy, he realizes he doesn't want to leave. So he decides to develop a new character for a book series and base it on Beckett. His friendship with the mayor means he gets to shadow her, serving as her partner by default despite the fact that he's not a cop (and thus doesn't have a gun to help back her up). Beckett's not so hot on this idea to start with and there continue to be times she questions the wisdom of it, even when Castle's theories have her rolling her eyes.

Over time, their relationship swings in all different directions and the "will they or won't they" question is always hanging over things. While the relationship works quite well professionally and they have great chemistry, circumstances never quite click for them.

Each episode starts a single murder, which may or may not result in one or two more, but definitely involves a lot of misdirection, confusion and questions that seem unanswerable. Occasionally, the case intersects with the continuing story arc involving the unsolved murder of Beckett's mother years ago.

Richard Castle

Perpetually young in that childish sort of way. Castle had an unconventional and rather wild upbringing and early (and huge) success with his books means he has the money to indulge his whims. And indulge is about the right word with him in just about every way. 

Played by Nathan Fillion. You might know him from Firefly, Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, Desperate Housewives, One Life to Live.

Kate Beckett

Driven, determined and dedicated. Became a cop in part to solve her mother's murder, although she's had to deal with her obsession in order to just deal with life. She seems straight-laced but constantly surprises Castle with tidbits about her personal life.

Played by Stana Katic. You might know her from Quantam of Solace, Heroes, 24.

Alexis Castle

Castle's daughter, who has all the maturity in the family. Way, way, way much maturity. Takes school too seriously and is the despair of her dad, who was far more of a wild child. (Far, far more.)

Played by Molly C. Quinn. You know her from Finding Hope, A Christmas Carol.

Martha Rodgers

Actress mother of Castle, who frustrates him while at the same time providing him with some grounding. Unconventional, overly dramatic and totally amazing.

Played by Susan Sullivan. You know her from Dharma & Greg, Falcon Crest.

Javier Esposito and Kevin Ryan

Detectives on the team who report to Beckett, in stereotypical NYPD fashion, one Hispanic and one Irish. Esposito former military, all guy. Ryan a little naive and sweet.

Lanie Parish

Coroner and friend to Beckett.