I have opinions I want to get out so here we go. Spoilers abound. I can flag as NSFW if that's needed here. I have read the books and watched all three seasons to date.

I was annoyed that Debling basically disappeared. I didn't like how Cressida's story was left unfinished - packing her away to Wales felt like an easy out. She's a complicated character and deserved more. I wanted her redemption, especially given her difficult circumstances.

Colin and Penelope were sweet, and my only criticism of the sex scene in ep 5 was how long it lasted. It stayed on the right side of TV sex vs soft core porn, just about. I did love the joy and affection they showed each other after each sexual encounter; laughing in enjoyment needs to be shown more. No more prostitutes, yay.

I'd hoped the queen's activities during part 1 were leading up to something, and that was the case. I love love love Lady Danbury and Violet's friendship. Yes please and thank you. Marcus as a new love interest felt like a step too much subplot, but maybe they'll do something interesting with it in later seasons. I also liked the development of Portia and Penelope's relationship, that was lovely to see.

Benedict: I wasn't surprised at the foray into bisexuality (it was foreshadowed in season 1) but I was surprised at how far the show went with it. Now I'm wondering how it will affect his romance in his season.

Francesca: again, having read the books, I was waiting for a certain character to appear, and when they finally did, I was shocked. I said in another comment on a different thread that I love the idea - I truly do, and Francesca's portrayal in the show now makes total sense - but this feels like fanfic now, considering that homophobia and sexist inheritance laws still exist in the Bridgerton show universe. How will this work? I will watch to find out, but damn.

Honestly, I was surprised the show followed through with the Whistledown reveal. The show acknowledged fallout, which is actually good - in the books there's none, which was ridiculous to read, because in the books, Penelope wrote the column for over ten years. Who wouldn't make enemies in that time? There would absolutely be consequences to revealing herself.

However, I disliked show Penelope's declaration to write more responsibly. There was a line about using her platform to give voice to the voiceless, to use her column for good. This is a gossip column about the richest people in the UK! No one gives a shit about social justice when gambling debts go unpaid and bastard children are produced and maids are poached from lady to lady. Girl, fucking expose these people and make your money. Developing a conscience about it is the "right" message to send, but completely wrong for the character, and totally out of touch given the echelons of society these characters move in. The show made Penelope redeem herself when she frankly did nothing wrong in my opinion.

In the books, Colin is seriously into her after finding out her persona, whereas in the show he punishes her by withdrawing and asking her to stop writing. Not a fan of that when they're the main couple of S3.

If you read this far, thank you. I'd like to hear others' thoughts about it.