I'm not going to sugarcoat: I was a HUGE fan of DH1, so I went into this with high hopes. The first 6 episodes were a bit of a chore to get through at times (mostly due to spotty writing & varying acting levels) BUT once I got to episode 7 the show majorly improved until the end! Once DH2 dropped the attempts at sitcom humor & started focusing on establishing characters, it was like watching two different shows. I began to care for each individual and found myself laughing, frustrated, & tearing up more often than not [it's not a good drama if I don't yell at my screen or cry AT LEAST once]. I've read a lot of reviews where people understandably but unfairly compared it to DH1 (I'm guilty of doing the same) or gave up on the show too soon. I suggest you give DH2 a fair shot. In the end I still prefer DH1, but I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't watch DH2 again!