This review may contain spoilers
This show is so ridiculous, why do I love it so much
Deng Lun was made for his role in this show, and had it been another actor, it is very possible I wouldn't have loved this show as much as I did. There are literal full episodes I will skip in this show as I just didn't care for a lot of the side plots and storylines. By the second half of the show, it starts to go downhill and fast. Especially as Jinmi's character goes from lighthearted and fun to -groan- dang near despicable and annoying, and Xufeng isn't in a lot of these later episodes due to well, you'll see.It is a long show, that could have been shortened for greater impact. Lots of annoying soap dramatics and ridiculousness that I wish had been done very differently or taken out entirely. A lot of subplots and things that also just don't even make sense.. which I am noticing more and more happens a lot in this type of genre. I also wish the second male lead was cast with someone entirely differently, and incorporated into the story in a manner that could actually cause a very big second lead syndrome to make the war in the end even more heartbreaking and understanding. From start to finish I did not like the second male lead. I also grew really tired of all of the plotting and manipulations and dramatics from the many villains of the show. So much soap when all I wanted was romantics. There were a lot of characters I really hated watching and wished were cast or presented differently.
There is a lot I have qualms with about this show .. so why the high rating and why do I still love this show?
Deng Lun is an absolute gem. He is attractive and charming, and the scenes they do have in falling in love and being together are so sweet and endearing. I haven't been able to watch his other romance shows with the same effect .. This character must have fit him so well. I keep trying to imagine different people cast for this story but it is hard for me to imagine anyone else who could be better for his role in my opinion. I feel like I rewatch this just to see him falling in love.
Production was done well in my opinion. The costumes are beautiful, the fantasy scenes and landscapes are beautiful, and even when some of the graphics or filming are very obviously film/theatre/cgi, I didn't really mind. As for the writing, I really enjoyed some of the comedic scenes and some of the sweeter side characters and plot lines. The light hearted ones were a breath of fresh air from all the doom and gloom. I loved a lot of the internal thoughts and silliness. Even the innocent misunderstandings. I still laugh at a few.
Every time I think about Ashes of Love I keep thinking about all of the ways this story had so much potential to be so much better, but I can't imagine them being able to remake this in a way to fix all of the many shortcomings of its predecessor successfully without perfect casting and impeccable planning and writing. I really don't know of any actor who would be better for the main male lead than Deng Lun. The actors and actresses would have to have amazing synergy and it's hard to imagine which current actors/actresses could even play which parts. The main leads would be incredibly important. The story would have to be improved significantly, and the many mistakes of the original ironed out.
To be fair, the reason I even consider any of this is because of how much I enjoyed the show. Otherwise I wouldn't even consider what it'd be like to remake the story. Any remake would have to be better than the original, otherwise there is no point.
I can see why a lot of people don't like this show.. but I can also see why it is so incredibly popular too. There is a reason why with every new fantasy Xianxia this show is often brought up in comparison.
My summary. There is a lot about this show I don't like.. but I keep coming back to it. Deng Lun was perfect for his role. When the show is bad, it is really bad, but the parts that are good, are really good. If you're like me, you'll end up rewatching the few episodes and scenes that are worthwhile just because they're so sweet and learn to skip over all the annoying ones (which can be more than the sweet scenes in number unfortunately). The scenes of them falling in love and getting to know one another over time are really cute. The love scenes are so sweet.
This is actually the first show that made me look for other Xianxia style shows because of how much I enjoyed it. I've watched quite a few now, all because of this show, and they all have a lot of the same problems. I'm always looking forward to creators making this genre so much better, because the potential is definitely there. I will say, there is not another Xianxia I have seen that I've liked better than this show, despite how many things I've found wrong with it.
If you have any interest in this genre, this show is a must see.
Was this review helpful to you?
The acting was so on point, even the scenes that I didn't expect myself to cry at would end up moving me just for the realness of it. I was shocked at Jin Mi's acting skills that's for sure. Her crying literally broke my heart.
++++ This is what we call character development.
Before watching Ashes of Love I wasn't really excited to see this male lead in particular(I don't know why), but after all of THAT I admit that he's a really good actor. He conveyed the character in all its ups and downs and I just can't get over a couple of scenes that he literally perfected.
I loved the cast as a whole, and i fell head over heels for some. I couldn't find any character that wasn't portrayed right.
The music was just right and the CGI was SO SATISFYING. If you're a fan of battles and so you'll enjoy some entertaining realistic fighting scenes.
Final words: Watch. It. You wouldn't regret it.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
One of my Most Rewatched CDramas
IDK if i can even write anything here except the mom sucks, the king was a sociopath and his wife worse. The brothers really did love each other which makes everything sadder and the only person whose life wasn't absolutely miserable was the love fairy god dude. He was epic. This show is epic. Watch it once. twice. three times. Never stop.I'm not a fan of chinese music, however, I did like the ost in this show. Im also not sure why chinese people like the whole acting like a baby situation but it didnt overpower the story so it was okay.
Was this review helpful to you?
Amazing Story, Acting, Music, CGI
When I started watching the first episode, I loved the floral realm scenery, and into the first encounter with Jin Mi and Xu Feng, I was not sure if it was going to be one of those clichés silly stories, so I stopped there and comeback later to watch it. I was curious to see another episode. I started to watch the second episode and kept going until the last one. I did like how the story was developing, and the characters development.Throughout the story, there were funny, cute, romantic, serious and sad moments, and the drama moments were very touching, and it would affect you no matter how many times you re-watch it.
Overall, one of the most amazing drama series that I have watched, I enjoyed the story, the acting, the music, and the special effects (CGI).
The actors did an amazing job, Jin Mi, Xu Feng, Run Yu, Liu Ying, Lord Puchi, Fox immortal, Lao Hu, Chief Peony, Sui He, Luo Lin, the Empress of the bird tribe and the rest of the actors. Jin Mi and Xu Feng were so awesome and their on screen romance is beautiful.
To all who participated to producing an amazing drama series, thank you, and thank you to the amazing acting of the main actors and support actors.
The screenwriters and the director did an amazing job （╹◡╹）
Was this review helpful to you?
PLOT: 10/10
ACTING: 10/10
CINEMATOGRAPHY: 10/10
WITHDRAWAL AFTER WATCHING: 100000000/10 :'(
Being Chinese myself, I am often critical of Chinese dramas as they can be long, draggy, and leave one feeling rather unsatisfied with the outcome. Moreover, the Xianxia theme is difficult to master successfully. Throughout all 63 episodes, I never felt bored. Character development is excellent and flows well, and while there may be a few plot holes, they are minor and are easily overlooked (I've forgotten them already, if there were any!). Deng Lun's acting took my breath away - heartfelt, cute, and tear-jerking at the right moments, you become so hooked on his character and his love for the heroine. Yang Zi also portrayed the heroine innocently enough while not being annoying. Moreover, Luo Yunxi played his role with excellence - you love him, hate him, and feel sorry for him all at the same time. There's some antagonists that will make you mad, but only a little, and they all eventually meet their retribution. Plenty of sweet scenes are scattered throughout the drama, making a viewer feel fulfilled.
If you are seeking a Chinese drama that is truly worth watching despite it's length, this (and Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms) is the perfect place to start. Only thing I have to warn you is that I entered severe withdrawal after completing this drama, I had to read the novel this drama was based on, AND I kept re-watching sweet scenes on YouTube. Truly a beautiful story, with amazing actors, and magnificent acting!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
The day has come when this great drama finally comes to an end! Overall, I find this a great drama. It is definitely one of the best c-dramas I have watched so far and I really recommend you to watch this ASAP!
Story - Comparing to Ten Miles Of Peach Blossom (3Lives3Worlds), I would say Ashes of Love trumps it. The story is more intriguing than TMOPB, there are more character development (though some might not like it) and I love how both leads died for each other.
Of course there are some unsatisfying parts. I feel there isnt enough romance scene. We barely had any kisses in the immortal realm, I did not really like the ending (it was a happy ending though) and we didnt get an explanation for why Kuang Lu loved Run Yu so much. I would also love to have a few more love line between some side characters but it is nothing major
Acting - I really must say I am impressed ALOT by Yang ZI, she did AMAZING in this drama and I think I have became a fan. Deng Lun did awesome too but I must say he is overshadowed by Yang Zi's acting. I also really enjoyed the acting of Run Yu and Kuang Lu. Most of the other main characters and side characters also had really good acting skills and I am really impressed by them
Song - I did not like the OST, but it did not really ruin the atmosphere, it is just not my taste.
Rewatch value - I will definitely rewatch most of the drama. It being a 63 episode drama definitely brings down its rewatch value though
Overall - 9.5
Was this review helpful to you?
slow pace
This drama is so good and it feels so original xianxia . maybe because I watch it first before any xianxia drama but this is so entertaining . the plot , the angst , the costumes, the casts are all amazing and the special effects feel like ahead of time . I watch this for more than 10 times . not rewatch the whole series but some episodes that I find it enjoyable . This is my top3 xianxia drama of all the time even though it has many episodes but trust me there is no boring episode . I rate it 10/10 .Was this review helpful to you?
The most touching true love story
I already watch this more than 5 times consecutively!!!This drama is the best Xian Xia i ever watch!!
I always search about another story with same genre but i cant find any drama were much interesting than this one!!
Because of this too, i became a fans of the Female Lead (Yang Zi) who i found really sincere, bright and good person.
This drama story is fun, touching, memorable and interesting!
I find it never bored me even a second every each episode.
The story hit the climax with reasonable cause too, and every emotion was delivered perfectly.
For everyone who want to search World Best Cian Xia, i highly recommend “Ashes of Love” 💕
This include for everyone who just learn to watch drama ❤️😊🥳
Was this review helpful to you?
Worth to watch
This is my first chinese costume drama. At first i almost cancel to watch this because of the numbers of the episodes so many 63 epsBut after read the reviews i decided to watch this drama. ML and FL chemistry is so natural and make audience feel comfy to watch.
The story also very dynamic and many surprises scene that unpredictable ones.
Already rewatch it once but still very happy watching it. The virtual background are so nice and the setting of location and props of the drama are really well prepared by the team, thumbs up for them, i believe they put so much effort in this drama making, so audience can enjoy beautiful scene and make every scene look so real
Was this review helpful to you?
Growth, sacrifice, and the consequences of love
At the heart of the story is Jin Mi, a frost flower fairy born to the Flower Deity and the Water Immortal. Raised in isolation within the Flower Realm, her life is carefully controlled—most notably by a magical pill that suppresses her emotions, preventing her from experiencing love or desire. Because of this, Jin Mi grows up innocent and unaware of the depth of human (and immortal) feelings.Her quiet existence changes when she rescues Xu Feng, the Fire Immortal. At her own request, he brings her to the Heavenly Realm, where she is introduced to a world far more complex and dangerous than anything she has known. There, she becomes entangled in celestial power struggles and the growing tension between Xu Feng and his half-brother, Run Yu, the Night Immortal.
As Jin Mi’s suppressed emotions slowly awaken, her bond with Xu Feng deepens into something powerful—but fragile. At the same time, Run Yu’s quiet affection turns into something darker, shaped by betrayal, loneliness, and ambition. What begins as a love triangle evolves into a tragic and layered conflict that affects not only their lives but the fate of all realms.
What makes Ashes of Love especially memorable is how it treats its supporting characters. The God of Love, often seen as playful and lighthearted, carries a deeper emotional weight as the story unfolds. His role in guiding and influencing love contrasts sharply with the pain and consequences that love brings to the main characters. His ending feels bittersweet—still embodying love, yet shaped by the sorrow he has witnessed.
The Snake Immortal’s story adds another layer of tragedy. Loyal and sincere, her devotion highlights the recurring theme of unreturned or complicated love. Her fate serves as a quiet but powerful reminder that not all love stories are meant to be fulfilled, reinforcing the drama’s emotional depth beyond the central trio.
Visually, the drama is stunning, with ethereal costumes and beautifully crafted realms that enhance the dreamlike quality of the story. But it’s the emotional storytelling that truly stands out—love here is not simple or idealized. It is tested, broken, misunderstood, and ultimately transformed.
Ashes of Love is not just a romance—it’s a story about growth, sacrifice, and the consequences of love when it is suppressed, manipulated, or misunderstood. It leaves you thinking long after it ends, with characters whose choices feel painfully human despite their immortal nature.
Was this review helpful to you?
I will be honest. It took 20 episodes for me to decide whether to drop it or not. I am glad I didn't. The first 20 episodes were campy and since I like dramas, wasn't sure this would be my cup of tea. But that all got settled as the pace quickened and things started to move along.
Jinmi is the daughter of the great Floral Fairy goddess who passes away from lovesickness and giving birth. Before she passes, she gives her infant daughter an elixir to swallow which keeps her from falling in love. This impediment is the root cause of all Jinmi's troubles as they keep her from forming love attachments. Growing up thinking she is a grape elf and without a care in the world, her life is soon turned upside down when a great phoenix bird accidentally lands in the floral realm during rebirth. He is actually a prince from the Heavenly realm who befriends Jinmi after she saves his life.
This show was surprisingly good and even though it isn't as good as Eternal Love, it has enough twists and turns that I never saw coming. I like a show that surprises me. The performances were rock-solid. I love the beautiful actress who plays Jinmi and the actor who portrays Runyu, her fiance. For a young actor, he does a solid job of making you love and despise him all at once. He was the most interesting character of all. I felt like the show doesn't reveal anything before it´s time and when Jinmi finds out the truth about people, you find out right along with her.
Great love story, though the chemistry isn't as good between the main characters as in Eternal Love. But I chalk this up the the actors being slightly younger and less experienced with the love scenes. Another great C-drama top put on your to-watch list.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Tired of shows that take forever to get good, with weak acting, awkward chemistry, or visuals that just don’t hit? This one flips all of that. It pulls you in right away and doesn’t let go.Plot:
Ashes of Love wastes no time—episode one already feels alive, colorful, and full of personality. It balances light, funny moments with deep emotional punches, so you’re not just watching—you’re feeling everything. One minute you’re smiling, the next you’re completely wrecked. The story builds steadily without dragging, and the character growth is one of its strongest points. You actually see how experiences change them, for better or worse. Visually, it’s impressive too—the costumes are detailed, and the fantasy elements are handled in a way that feels immersive instead of distracting. By the time you reach the later episodes, everything feels bigger, more intense, and worth the journey.
Acting:
The cast absolutely delivers. Yang Zi brings a mix of innocence and quiet strength that makes her character unforgettable, while Deng Lun adds depth and emotional weight that really completes the dynamic. Their chemistry feels natural, not forced—you believe in their connection without needing to question it. Even the supporting characters stand out, each adding something meaningful to the story instead of just filling space.
Music:
The soundtrack deserves its own spotlight. Songs by Sa Dingding and other artists blend perfectly with the scenes, making emotional moments hit even harder. It’s the kind of OST that sticks with you—you’ll probably end up replaying it long after you finish the show.
Overall:
This isn’t just another fantasy romance—it’s the kind of series that stays with you. It makes you laugh, stress out, and maybe cry more than you expected. And once it’s over, it’s hard not to compare everything else to it. If you’re looking for something engaging from start to finish, this is definitely worth your time.
Was this review helpful to you?
