Handbuch einer Anstandsdame

The creator and writers of the successful Netflix series, Cable Girls (2017-20) go back further in time for this exquisite Spanish production period piece set in 1880s Madrid, of a cheeky matchmaking chaperone, Elena (Nadia de Santiago made for the role) servicing aristocratic socialites. She manages to swindle her way into a grieving motherless family with the arduous task of attempting to find a suitor for 21-year-old, Cristina, and at the same time keep an eye out on the younger female sibblings who get up to mischieve. What eventuates is a ribald screwball poking fun at strict social norms of the time, with a modern sensability that is perfect entertainment for the romantic cynic at heart...

I was not sure what to expect when starting this short series. But it's a very quick watch with lovely acting, gorgeous costume design, and many very likeable characters. I really enjoyed the set designs, music choices, and casting choices that complemented the lighthearted storyline. Similar to a Brigerton vibe, but with much less scheming, backstabbing and royalty (lol), so therefore much more fun in my opinion. If you like regency era stories mixed with romantic comedies it should be a good choice for an immersive binge. Recommend this to watch for a quick pick me up. Escapism at its finest!

If you enjoy period pieces like Bridgerton, this Spanish comedy set in Madrid during the late 1880's will entertain you. The lovely Elena starts right off by breaking the fourth wall, talking directly to you, giving her opinion of what to expect, and what not to expect from the love story that she is about to be a part of. If you read the basic plot summary of this series, you already know the gist of what it's already about, so I won't bore you.

This is why I enjoyed it: I loved the colors selected for the wardrobe. Ranging from vivid corrals contrasting with intense turquoise, and chartreuse. I'm sure that liberties were taken with what people actually wore during that period, but it creates a frivolous fantasy that is very opulent.

Flower arrangements are splashed in every decor and the outdoor landscapes and gardens are lush with blooms. Even the carriages can be colorful. Picture a sky blue coach drawn by a team of prancing chestnut horses. Sigh.

The sets are done in some Spanish mansions on location, and are lavishly decorated to the hilt.

The outdoor countryside parties are gorgeous, and the food and drinks cover every possible table setting.

These rich people love to eat and drink in excess, no matter where they are.

You never really see any downtrodden poor people, as in some other series.

There are not as many indoor balls as Bridgerton, but the ones that occur are filled with some well choreographed, modernized ballroom dancing accompanied by classical versions of modern day hits. Some of the soundtrack features memorable hits preformed by artists in the 70's and 80's.

Nothing is off-limits. It's humor is quick-witted, and there is a lot of back and forth sarcastic put downs between various romantic couples. It's light and spicy. The drama is never really tense, but there is just enough intrigue, hidden secrets, and plot twists to keep you interested. Flashbacks fill in critical plot holes going back hours or a few days, but happen in later episodes, to keep you guessing. Many times you will follow one plot, only to have Elena break out, and tell you that that's not what happened, and then proceeds to correct the plot. She constantly let's you know what she's thinking about. It can get a bit repetitious, but that's her charming self. I'm sure that Netflix is counting on a successful series rating, and already has season 2 in the works.

My mom (a recent widow) and I (a single girl) both love The Lady's Companion, to the point we didn't want Season 1 to end and are devastated we have to wait for Season 2.... There better be a Season 2. We both greatly appreciated how it tackled big emotions (i.e. Death of spouses, miscarriage, societal pressures, and the search for a husband) without feeling too heavy nor depressing. Rather, it exemplified resilience and the ability for us, particularly women, to find strength in subpar circumstances. I think we were able to relate to the characters, and it provided comedic relief to our stressful lives.

Absolutely adored binging this snazzy little number from start to finish! It was such a visual feast-lavish costumes, dreamy lighting, and settings that made me want to pack my bags and move into a Spanish villa immediately. The cast? A delightful mix of charming, ridiculously attractive men and sharp, charismatic women. The chemistry was electric, and the witty banter kept me laughing all the way through.

The gardens and architecture deserve a whole paragraph of their own-utterly divine! Every scene felt like stepping into a dream: part Bridgerton romance, part Downton Abbey grandeur, and sprinkled with that delightful Jane Austen sass, all wrapped up in a sun-soaked, comedic Spanish fiesta.

Pure escapist joy with just the right touch of drama and mischief. I'm officially hooked-and counting down the days until the next season drops!