The classic enemies to lover’s trope has always been a fan favorite, and season 2 of Bridgerton took full advantage of this; crafting an incredible storyline once again. After a truly intriguing first season, the second did not disappoint. Creator Chris Dusen, has again caused a buzz in the entertainment world with this new season full of emotion, violin covers of famous modern-day songs, pent-up tension and lots of chemistry.

Unlike the previous season, this one is focused on the eldest of the Bridgerton siblings; Viscount Anthony Bridgerton, played by Jonathan Bailey, on his quest to find a wife- and nothing more. During his quest for a wife, he stumbles upon Lady Kate Sharma, played by Simone Ashley, who has also decided love is unimportant. After going through a list and marking off several ladies based on the most absurd reasons, Anthony then meets Kate’s younger sister Edwina (Charithra Chandran), and is determined to have Queen Charlotte’s (Golda Rosheuvel) diamond of the season as his wife- but Kate isn’t about to allow that. Our enemies in this classic story act as if they hate each other. Kate seems to despise him while Anthony loathes her. While Anthony pursues Edwina, the sexual chemistry between him and Kate is never-ending. At least four different times I was on the edge of my seat expecting them to kiss, only for something to interrupt them. Every episode I would start to think ‘They have to kiss now, surely they won’t delay it another episode.’ And then they did, again and again.

And just as you think everything has crumbled and that their love is hopeless, Anthony and Kate finally kiss. Navigating the family and the ton prove to be challenging, but they eventually give in, and we are given one out of the two sex scenes in this season. This is something that really had people talking after last season had more sex than one could count thanks to the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page) and Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor). People will disagree, but I liked that they didn’t include sex in every episode. The way they built up the tension was incredible. The chemistry was amazing, and I love how this show truly allows each character to develop in major ways over the course of the season. It felt very natural for the storyline. Nothing felt forced, so I really don’t understand why there were so many complaints.

But how rude of me, I almost missed one of the most important characters: Lady Whistledown, who we now know to be wallflower Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan). Penelope is a boss to be able to accomplish this practically all by herself, all while avoiding exposure. I don’t appreciate how she has written about some people, especially Eloise Bridgerton (Claudia Jessie), her best friend. Unfortunately, Eloise’s interest in finding Whistledown in season one ends up hurting her as the Queen begins to suspect she is actually Whistledown. In a completely screwed-up attempt to save Eloise, Eloise and her newfound crush, Theo Sharpe (Calam Lynch), find themselves the subject of the latest gossip. When you really think about it, Penelope is pretty messed up to do all of this. Spreading rumors, gossip, and painful truths around only benefits one person: Penelope.

In my opinion, Bridgerton is a show that easily trumps other shows and period dramas. The plots are clear, easy to follow and just make sense. It constantly engages the audience through the use of passion, subtle comedy, beautiful cinematography and excellent writing. The actors and actresses were all talented and perfectly represented the roles they were given. I honestly can’t say enough good things about season 2. My rating is 5 out of 5 stars!