Top 3 historical drama series to get you through the chill

The deep freeze that has gripped the Northeast for the past five weeks has brought with it feet of snow, blustery winds, commuting havoc, and one too many housebound weekends. Indeed the temperatures have seldom been lower, and yet, it has sent my appreciation for seemingly mundane things sky-high: warm clothing and an underground subway, a home with heating and indoor plumbing, and -- I say this unreservedly-- Netflix.

The media streaming service has become a daily essential, faithfully entertaining and keeping cabin fever at bay. It has lured me into several satisfying binge-fests, interrupted only by the occasional, "Are you there?"

Yes, Netflix, I am here, and I am gobbling up your serial goodness.

My diversion of choice is the hallowed historical drama -- sensory marvels that transport you to any given moment in time, all from the safety and comfort of your couch. If you too have a hankering for the lush, shimmering art deco of the 1920s or the ruthless outlaws of the dusty Wild West, Netflix is sure to deliver. Here are my current top three favorites:

1. Peaky Blinders

Source: Netflix.com

Set in 1919 Birmingham, England, Peaky Blinders finds itself unequivocally at the top of my list. The series is based on the rough-and-tumble Peaky Blinders gang and the proud Shelby family at its helm. At the center of the family is Tommy Shelby, middle brother and charismatic leader. Hardened and damaged by years of war, Tommy wages brutal turf battles, endures merciless extortion, and struggles for professional legitimacy, all to ensure the survival of the clan. By the first few notes of the opening credits, I guarantee you'll be pulled into its grit, drama, and intrigue.

2. Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries

Source: Netflix.com

The Honorable Miss Phryne Fisher is the type of heroine you wish you could meet (or better yet, be) in real life. Upon returning to her native Australia to investigate the childhood disappearance of her younger sister, Phryne finds herself quickly embroiled --sometimes by intent and sometimes by happy chance-- in the murder mystery cases of 1920s Melbourne. Accompanied by a ragtag and lovable crew, Phryne's sharp detecting skills, precocious curiosity, and indomitable spirit earn the respect and companionship of the handsome Detective Inspector Jack Robinson of the City South Police. Dripping with roaring twenties glamour, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries is sure to delight. 

3. Godless

Source: Netflix.com

Every minute of Godless serves as a reminder as to why we should be thankful to live in the 21st century and not the wild, lawless lands of post-Civil War America. The series chronicles the struggles of a defunct mining town which, after a sudden mine collapse, is left to the devices of the women, children, and aged left behind. Challenged by the ensuing poverty, the residents are prey to passing brigands, grasping railway prospectors, and the barrenness of their surroundings. When a mysterious stranger--hunted by notorious, bloodthirsty outlaws-- seeks refuge at a nearby farmstead, the town finds itself in greater peril than ever before. I had never considered myself a fan of Westerns, but the thrill of Godless has proven irresistible.  

Not even halfway done, but this winter has certainly brought new meaning to the phrase Netflix and chill, hasn't it? It's a good thing we've got these fabulous historical dramas to ferry us through the rest.