Viewers can't stop raving about this little-known period drama that has audiences in a chokehold, begging for more episodes - streaming free on Channel 4.09:04, 04 Jun 2026Call the Midwife is frequently regarded as the benchmark for female-led period dramas spotlighting women's narratives.‌Now, viewers have discovered another costume drama from the same category which celebrates women's experiences in historical contexts - and audiences simply cannot get enough of the overlooked treasure.‌Drawing inspiration from Julie Summers' book Jambusters, the period drama initially debuted on television back in 2015, yet enthusiasts are still praising it 11 years later. Home Fires is being lauded as a "masterpiece" by watchers, with audiences declaring it was "as satisfying as a warm cup of tea" - and the series is currently streaming without charge on Channel 4 and UKTV.‌Created by Simon Block and co-directed by Robert Quinn and Bruce Goodinson, the period drama has been produced by ITV and is set in a rural Cheshire community called Great Paxford between September 1932 and early 1940. Across two seasons, it examines the lives of Women's Institute members on the Home Front while the Second World War raged on.Featuring Francesca Annis, Daisy Badger, Leanne Best, Samantha Bond, Clare Calbraith, Mark Bonnar, Mark Bazeley, Chris Coghill, and Ruth Gemmell, the series has garnered acclaim from all directions for its superb storyline and genuine performances.‌The period drama's official plot states: "The story follows a group of women living in a rural Cheshire village during World War II. With the war occupying their husbands, fathers, sons and brothers, the women are forced to cope with the pressures of living with limited resources in a nation of disarray", reports the Liverpool Echo."Through their difficulties the ladies find strength by forming the Great Paxford Women's Institute, which helps them maintain hope and order in their community as Britain crumbles around them."Back in May 2016, ITV dealt fans a crushing blow by axing the programme after just two series - something audiences have struggled to come to terms with ever since. Indeed, following the cancellation, creator Simon Block chose to continue the narrative through a novelisation, resolving the unanswered questions left hanging by series 2's cliffhangers.‌Boasting an impressive 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the series has earned widespread acclaim, with one critic writing: "Home Fires offers British drama that's as satisfying as a warm cup of tea."Another reviewer said: "This series is spoonful after spoonful of splendid jahm," while one wrote: "It's more uplifting and affirming than challenging or surprising, and it is handsomely made with convincing period detail and a fine cast delivering top notch performances."‌Viewers are utterly obsessed with the period drama, as one writes: "The name being Home Fires on Masterpiece, it doesn't lie about the Masterpiece part."Meanwhile, an IMDB user review said: "I absolutely cannot believe that this absolutely incredible series has been cancelled by ITV. It is a major favorite in our household and we miss it terribly. For anyone who has not seen it, go find it and watch. It's the best TV has to offer so it needs to continue."Another audience member awarded the programme "20 stars" and wrote: "A real tear jerker. I don't thing there was one episode I didn't tear up. This is a touching heartwarming series. I fell in love with the characters who no matter the status or gender each had their own humanistic qualities that we all share. I love period pieces and this one did not disappoint! I'd give 20 stars if I could!"‌While one fan of the series said: "Home Fires was one of the few dramas I looked forward to watching each week. Like a warm cuppa and cake, it brought that comfort only a good northern England drama can provide. The cast were outstanding. The storylines, forever evolving and keeping you at the edge of your seat. An all-star cast from stage and screen."One viewer was profoundly affected by the series and its axing: "It's been 4 years since this series was cancelled and I still think about the characters and their lives. I was devastated when I found out, so much so, I signed a petition to get it back on, to no avail. I only have the books to console me now."‌Numerous others were left devastated by the show's cancellation, venting their frustration on IMDB: "It had me completely hooked which is why I'm completely devastated to hear that the show was then axed. WHYYYYYYYYY????"While one disgruntled viewer said: "This series should never have been cancelled - one of best series of the last 10yrs!"Another fan of the show added: "Why they canceled this binge worthy series is outside my realm of understanding! How utterly disappointing to be left with such an unbelievably maddening cliffhanger. Seems all the greats get canceled, but they could've at least given the viewers closure before such an abrupt abandonment."Article continues belowHome Fires is available to stream for free on Channel 4 and UKTV.