The Great

In this series created by Tony McNamara (think Favourite, The -- also with a periodic setting), we see the "not so true" origin of Catherine the Great. The series is very well-written. It has elements of sarcasm, wit, romance, drama, and comedy, all spun into one.

I think it really emphasises the stereotypes that people believed back then, and presents the absurdity in an occassionally dark, but always hilarious, manner. More importantly, it shows that royal-borns not always want to rule, or for that matter, have what it takes (Peter's greatest flaw is that he cares to much of what other people think), but people can emerge from nowhere and cease the opportunity.

In my opinion, Elle Fanning's performance in the show is the best in her career so far, and Nicholas Hoult does a fine job in delivering his role as he is expected, like he always does.

If you're looking for a show with fewer episodes to watch which is also a rom-com/period/female-lead, this would be it.