ITV Karen Pirie filming locations as it returns for highly-anticipated second series

The second instalment of Karen Pirie is set to grip viewers as the titular detective tackles a notorious cold case that draws intense attention from her superiors, the press, and dark forces preferring secrets remain buried.

The perplexing abduction of Catriona and Adam Grant outside a Fife chippy has baffled detectives for years, but Karen is determined to unravel the mystery, leading her on a journey through Scotland's landscapes.

Director Gareth Bryn spoke about the significance of setting in storytelling, saying: "For me, a strong sense of place is crucial, especially because Val McDermid's writing is so specific. It's hard to stray from the world she creates in her books, so I've aimed to stay as true to it as possible."

READ MORE: Inside Karen Pirie star Lauren Lyle's private life and career as ITV drama returns

READ MORE: Karen Pirie season 2 cast as ITV detective drama returns with Outlander's Lauren Lyle

Bryn elaborated on how the protagonist's environment reflects her evolution: "Karen's home in the books covers a vast area, which gave us flexibility. In the first series, she was based right in the middle of Kirkcaldy, but for this series, we moved her slightly out of the town.

"Time has passed, and with her promotion, it made sense for her to be in a slightly nicer area."

He also highlighted the importance of setting in crime dramas: "The landscape plays a significant role in police dramas. If you're not careful, you end up with lots of interior two handers, or interview scenes but in Karen Pirie, the landscape acts as a character itself.

"We were spoiled for choice in Fife, with its stately homes and castles. For example, we used two castles: one for exterior shots of the Grant's house, and another for interiors.

"We also filmed some scenes in the caves outside St. Andrews, which turned out beautifully. The weather worked in our favour - it was surprisingly sunny, which made filming much easier."

Lead actress Lauren Lyle chimed in: "It's always amazing to return to Scotland - it feels like a whole character in itself. The landscapes and the people all add so much to the show. I love that we're portraying a modern Scotland with a diverse mix of people and perspectives.

"Scotland's sense of humour, that dry, sarcastic tone, really shines through in the show. I also love that it feels universal - it's not just a Scottish story, but something everyone can relate to. It's a privilege to showcase Scotland as a cool, stylish, powerful place beyond the stereotypes of tartan and hills."

Meanwhile, co-star Chris Jenks, who portrays DC Jason 'Mint' Murray, expressed his delight at returning to his homeland of Scotland, reports the Express.

"Glasgow is such a fun place to film as well - there's loads of stuff going on. Early on, we filmed out in a little cottage in Luss which was a beautiful place to film. I'd love to work in Scotland again," he shared.

Karen Pirie airs Sunday at 9pm on ITV.