There are men in this story, all of whom are interesting and often deeply alluring, but this is a show most concerned with the plight and passions of women. The most exciting moments often come not from scenes of bombast but in the whispers that shape the season. The intrigue of Bridgerton comes from its tangled ecosystem of friends, frenemies, suitors, and voyeurs. It can't possibly go wrong, unless the seemingly omniscient gossip writer Lady Whistledown (voiced by Julie Andrews with the right balance of nobility and bitchiness) has something to say in her latest column. It only makes sense for he and Daphne to strike a deal: they shall play the role of besotted lovers to the outside world, thus keeping him off the marriage market and making her a greater prospect for social-climbing singletons.

He's the most eligible bachelor on the market but he has no interest in finding a wife, siring an heir, or performing any of his noble duties. Step forward Simon Basset, the new Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page) freshly arrived in London. But the course of a good match never ran smoothly, and it's not long before Daphne's hopes and reputation are on the line. The eldest daughter Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor) is set to make her debut as an eligible wife-to-be, and she seems set for greatness when none other than Queen Charlotte herself (a deliciously meddling Golda Rosheuvel) bestows upon her the royal seal of approval. The eponymous Bridgertons are a clan of eight children with alphabetized names and the eyes of London society on them at all times. Even for those unfamiliar with Quinn’s novels, Bridgerton will prove to be an enticing slice of Shondaland at its best. The work of Rhimes (who executive produces Bridgerton, while Scandal and Grey's Anatomy alum Chris Van Dusen serves as showrunner and creator) and her Shondaland banner is famous for its blend of soapy thrills, social commentary, and an altogether more delicious appetite for characters and viewers alike.

The first season of Bridgerton comes to us courtesy of Shondaland, the first major television offering of showrunner extraordinaire Shonda Rhimes's much-publicized deal with the streaming service.

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