Whitehall (Season 1 Episode 1): “Embarkations”

The stage is set for a royal alliance between England and Portugal through the marriage of England’s Charles II, who has just regained the throne, and Infanta Catarina (Catherine) of Portugal. Catherine comes to England to marry Charles, but also to seal the alliance with the promise of a hefty dowry. Before the union takes place, sacrifices must be made by both royals – Princess Catherine: her home and family; King Charles: his open debauchery, or, one would think. Questions hang in the air scented with the perfume of a mistress who has no plans of giving up her place ‘pleasing’ the King. There are and will be secrets. The question remains: are there ever such things as well kept secrets? We shall see.

Whitehall, published by Serial Box, delivers what looks to be another multi-episode storyline that will keep readers coming back for more week after week. The season opener introduces main players such as Charles II, the King’s mistress Barbara Palmer – the Countess of Castlemaine, future queen of England Infanta Catarina (Catherine) of Braganza of Portugal, and many more. Set during a time of reformation in England – where scandal lurks around every corner – this historical fiction serial has definitely started off on the right foot.

Read our other episode reviews of Whitehall.