I have never read the books so I can't comment on that or make any comparisons thereof. My review is based solely on the series. So far I have seen the first two seasons. I love period stories and this one doesn't disappoint. The dresses are beautiful and the scenery breathtaking.
The first season had too many explicit love scenes for my taste. They distracted from the story. In season two they toned that down a lot and focused on the story of Anthony and the Sharma sisters so it was better.
Regarding the racial equality element, as a multiethnic Latina, I applaud the concept. I know that the real life Queen Charlotte was white and racial equality didn't happen for several more decades, but this is just a made up story and it's nice to see what could have been.
I can't wait to see season 3. I need to see what happens with Penelope and Colin.