The 'shocking' period drama based on a 1938 book with a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score

Period fans will be excited to learn that the second series of this popular drama is currently airing. The Buccaneers is a historical drama television series created by Katherine Jakeways. It was based on the unfinished novel of the same name by Edith Wharton, published posthumously in 1938.

The series synopsis reads: "Set in the 1870s during the Gilded Age, it revolves around five wealthy and ambitious American women and their experiences in London high society as they deal with culture clashes, differing approaches to tradition, friendship, and love."

The Buccaneers series stars an ensemble cast led by Kristine Froseth, Alisha Boe, Aubri Ibrag, Josie Totah, and Imogen Waterhouse. Matthew Broome, Josh Dylan, Barney Fishwick, Guy Remmers, Mia Threapleton, and Christina Hendricks also star.

The series has been met with much praise from fans, with the audience reviewers of Rotten Tomatoes rating the period drama at an impressive 92% score. The critics rank it lower at 76% however. Their consensus states: "Anachronistic to the max and loving it, The Buccaneers is a feminist and frothy treat for fans of period piece pageantry."

A critic said: "Like a slice of Victoria sponge laden with strawberries and cream, it's decadent and delicious. You could call it a guilty pleasure, but frankly, TV should be enjoyed rather than endured."

Another added: "Take a bit of Downton Abbey, a touch of The Gilded Age and a whiff of Bridgerton and you'll come up with this costume drama about wealthy young American women crossing the Atlantic to find titled - if impoverished - British husbands."

One audience reviewer said: "I really enjoyed this! Much better than Bridgerton, and after that ending, I need season 2 now!!"

"Beautiful, shocking, amazing. I just love it," praised one watcher, while another added that they were "surprised by how good this show is!! A must see".

"I am a big fan of Edith Whartons writing and this adaptation works so well. A modern feminist take on a classic novel. Looking forward to seeing it to its conclusion," said a fourth.

The Buccaneers is available to stream on Apple TV and Amazon Prime now.