Bridgerton fans urged to binge steamy Netflix series

While Bridgerton devotees are eagerly awaiting the return of Shonda Rhimes' series for a fourth season, a new Netflix show may just be the perfect substitute.

Bollywood series The Royals has already captivated viewers with its sizzling love story, opulent palace settings and dazzling attire.

Featuring Bhumi Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter, it tells the tale of a determined businesswoman striving to rescue her company by revitalising a Royal family's dwindling fortune, thereby preserving their dynasty.

Despite their stark differences, as they both grapple with grief and are compelled to collaborate, their relationship takes an unexpected turn and romance flourishes.

The synopsis on Netflix Tudum teases: "A prince trying to save his family's palace is forced to team up with a savvy executive in order to save it. As the royal heir and the self-made CEO transform the estate into a luxury bed-and-breakfast, their contentious relationship takes a turn toward romance," reports the Mirror.

The romance and fairytale setting has left fans begging for more, as one wrote: "I loved it and it left me wanting more. I thought it was going to be a stiff stereotypical romance and started watching with a skeptical attitude. BUT, the actors did a superb job of telling the stories within the characters and completely drew me in. It had intrigue, twists, humor, and made me fall in love with the whole family."

Another said: "The Royals is a refreshing and entertaining blend of romance, drama, and royal intrigue that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Ishaan Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar deliver stellar performances with perfect chemistry, making every moment captivating.

"The show's modern take on tradition, stunning visuals, and witty writing make it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good love story with a royal twist. Highly recommended!"

Someone else wrote: "A beautifully classic and romantic series that's perfect for binge-watching."

Another fan said: "Just finished watching The Royal on Netflix-what a brilliant series! Ishaan Khatter delivered a phenomenal performance-his acting was so compelling and layered. I was completely drawn into the story and the world they created. Every episode kept me hooked. I absolutely loved the storytelling, the visuals, and the depth of the characters. Already looking forward to the next season-can't wait to see where the story goes next!"

The Royals star Bhumi Pednekar previously teased the series as a mix of Bridgerton and Schitt's Creek.

According to The Times of India, she said: "It is (like) a modern-day Bridgerton because of the setting and the world that's been created, but definitely a bit of Schitt's Creek because there's the royal family and the dysfunctionality and everything that happens with them.

"But I grew up reading Mills and Boon, and I'm a very, very big fan of it. This is a very classic boy-girl romance. It's just that there's no damsel-in-distress. It's refreshing."

Netflix recently announced that season two would be "coming soon", teasing: "Old money, new blood and a new season is in the works. The Royals Season 2 is coming soon, only on Netflix."

One fan commented: "Oh my word, I am so excited for season 2. Just finished watching season 1 and omw I'm speechless, I really can't wait."

"I'm here for this," another added.

Creator Rangita Pritish Nandy shared: "Expect more fire, more feisty banter, and yes, a whole lot of drama. Because in our world, the crowns may be metaphorical-but the chaos is royally real."

The Royals is available to watch on Netflix