A Journey to Love

Epic CDrama… until the "Ten Years Later" Epilogue

Just finished watching A Journey To Love, and WOW, what a ride. 🎬✨
The production quality was top-tier. From the breathtaking cinematography to the soundtrack that perfectly complemented the tone of each scene, it was a visual and emotional feast.

The main characters were complex and incredibly well-written. Ren Ruyi, played by Liu Shishi, was a fierce assassin with emotional baggage and a thirst for revenge 🔥 Ning Yuanzhou, played by Liu Yuning, was equally complex. As an official guard with breathtaking martial arts skills, he had this quiet, inner conflict between his duty and his desire for a peaceful, simpler life. Their journey was filled with tension, struggle, and undeniable chemistry that carried the entire plot.

Of course, the supporting characters also added extra layers of intrigue and entertainment.
Liu Shisan, played by Alan Feng, was a womanizer, yes—but hilarious and over-the-top in the best way. His antics kept things light and fun, and even though his character could not free himself from his attachment issues, he was consistently entertaining. 😂

Then there’s He Lan Dou as Yan Ying, the princess. Her transformation from a timid girl to a fierce, ambitious woman was so satisfying to watch. Her growth felt earned, and I loved seeing her take charge of her destiny. 👑💥

The soundtrack was chef’s kiss, the martial arts and fighting scenes were really good and the costumes were just gorgeous. The attention to detail in both areas really helped immerse you in the world, making it feel so grand and well-crafted. 🎶👗

The first half of the drama was surprisingly funny and entertaining. It set the tone with plenty of lighthearted moments, humor, and witty banter between the characters, making it an enjoyable watch. While there were still serious undertones and the drama's bigger stakes were being laid out, the first half felt breezier and more fun. The romance was playful, and the character dynamics kept me laughing. 😄

Then, in the middle, things slowed down a bit. The romance took center stage more heavily, and while I liked the chemistry between the leads, it did feel a little slow and cheesy at times. Still, those slower moments didn’t last long, and once the plot picked up again, it got really interesting.

The second half of the drama had some seriously unexpected twists. There were so many shocking developments, and the story kept me on my toes. The stakes got even higher, and you couldn’t help but wonder what would happen next. There was never a dull moment once the drama hit its stride again.

Then… the epic climax hit. And wow, this was the moment that had me completely gripped. It was the kind of finale that leaves you breathless. Every twist and turn had been leading up to this—and it delivered. The tension, the stakes, the payoff? Absolutely mind-blowing. The action was intense, the emotions were raw, and it was everything I had been waiting for. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. 😍🔥

But then... the "ten years later" epilogue happened, and I’m not sure what they were going for there. 🤔 The shift was so jarring and felt completely out of place. They tried to give us an uplifting resolution, but it honestly felt more melodramatic than satisfying. It sort of killed the emotional weight of everything we’d just experienced. 😬

Final Thoughts:
If you’re in it for the breathtaking visuals, unforgettable performances, and epic storytelling—this drama definitely delivers. But if you’re someone who needs a clean, emotionally-resonant ending, be warned that the epilogue—though short—might leave you feeling a bit puzzled. It’s a love-it-or-hate-it kind of moment. 😅

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Good until it wasn’t

I enjoyed the first 15 episodes or so. The storyline was interesting, and the series is fairly well produced. That said, I felt it was about 10 to 15 episodes too long. It became repetitive and the last 5-6 episodes just completely nonsensical.

This the only series that actually upset me. I don’t necessarily need a happy ending 100% of the time, but this one goes beyond. Every single “main” character is killed, one at the time. I was hoping for a least one higher note, but no. They killed every last one. I am not sure why, but I felt betrayed by the overly tragic ending.

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The badass Female assasin & Liu Dao Halls' 5 elite squad assembled!

"I'm not consulting you. I'm informing you." - Ren Xin

I hereby declare personal grudge against the writer (Zhang Wei) of this story. I want to be impartial and just be nice because this drama has brought me so much happiness and entertainment; but, how can I do that when she turned such a promising and amazing drama into a stupid tragic path? I'm extremely dumbfounded at the same time furious over her disgusting and treacherous act. This drama could have been a happy ending but for some reason her crazy mind went wild and decided to kill the main characters one after another, continously... and even if she implied that Ning Yuan Zhou and Ren Ru Yi magically survived and is alive at the end—through their "kids". I still cannot take that to comfort me and make me feel redemptive over this excellent story that was unfortunately ended tragically. NYZ and RRY is parenting the entire squad like they're their own children and yet she decided to slaughter them one by one. Gosh! My Parents deserves better treatment!

I want to conclude this rant section of my review by saying, I got so much beef with the writer of this drama and I think it will last forever. She excels in making good story unfortunately she also got a strong obsession in turning everything into a tragedy.

Disclaimer: Even after all the things I stated above, I still won't deny how good of a writer she is. The script is exceptionally well written and god knows how blowned away I was watching the exchange of words from the characters of this story.

Moving forward, I want to say how much I enjoyed this drama as a whole. The intro was perfect and so does the suceeding episodes until the tragedy I mentioned above started. I love how their love story started naturally as strangers who accidentally encountered one another but didn't immediately fall in love; rather, they allow us to witness their suspicions that gradually developed into trust to mutual affection then finally, love.

In terms of chemistry, I'd say they're straight out insane! It's crazy how their very first interaction which was an intense scene turned out to be full of sparks and charisma; and don't even let mention how compelling their following future scenes are, because I might spend my entire time fanboying over how perfect they are together. I also want to mention here how Ren Ru Yi's 'I want to have a baby with you' to NYZ has lived and explored entirely free in my mind. My imagination runs wild with this two (NYZ as a surrogate Father lol). Also, their infatuation and indenial moments are the cutest! I cringe so much in a good way because of them.

Next thing I want to talk about are the supporting characters. I don't usually do this, but I feel like each one of them deserves to be acknowledged for their excellent role and portrayal in this story.

"You've trained a sparrow in a royal cage into an Eagle" - Princess Yang Ying

Princess Yang Ying/Prince Li Heng portrayed by He Lan Dou is the MVP of this drama for me. She went from a fragile and docile cub into a full grown tigress. This is one of those times I realized how good the writer is. She transformed the weak and damsel in distress Princess and made her a tough decisive one. Of course, this wouldn't happen without He Lan Dou's acting prowess and versatility. I love her a lot in this show.

Yuan Lu played by Chen You Wei is one of my favorite out of all the characters of this drama. He's cheerful, bright and overall entertaining. I'm so proud of this guy, he's the epitome of positivity and good vibes. I'm the most disheartened when the writer finally decided to kill him. Grr! I guess, I'm just grateful that he died full of pride and valiantly.

Li Tong Guang played by Chang Hua Sen by far is the most overrated character of this story. This man's emotionally unstable and I find it unbelievable how he broke down in the middle of a losing war. I admit that he's good looking and charismatic but his physical appearance alone doesn't fill the gap in his character for me. Chang Hua Sen's acting here is great though. I often find him amusing, specially during his mental breakdown scenes for his Master Ren Xin.

Yu Shi Shan played by Fang Yi Lun - This is my first time to watch him play a lively and carefree role and I must say he nailed it! It feels refreshing to watch him be annoying and mischievous almost all the time compared to the previous roles he's acted on.

Qian Zhao played by Wang Yi Zhe for me is the serious brother of the gang who played the role of a Vice captain whenever NYZ is not around. Wang Yi Zhe impresses me on how he portrayed this character so well.

Sun Lang played by Li Huan is the least favored character for me. I feel like the writer doesn't like him that much base on how little his screentime are the whole show.

Special mention to Zhang Song played by Zhang Lei. His acting on Episode 3 alone made me realized that Vetaran actors are a cut of their own cloth. The lines were written eloquently and provocatively but the way he delivered it gave me real chills. His control and command of his actions and facial expressions hightened the tension of his scenes for me.

I know this is getting lengthy so let me just mention some unpredictable scenes which I have mixed feelings of.

First is the pairings and love teams. It changes so constantly and unexpectedly that I don't know anymore what to expect. This aspect of the storyade me disappointed and dumbounded a lot.

Second is the death of the main cast! Dang! I still can't move on! I know that they all died in a reasonable way and with great valour but then, I still can't let go of my 'supposed' happy ending. (Sighs)

Lastly, I just want to commend this drama for its slick, refined and smooth exhibitions of their fight scenes. Martial arts choreography is Mad! Specially Liu Xi Xi and Liu Yu Ning's. My satisfaction of them is at its peak!

P.S. My favorite moments of this drama is when the Main casts are all together casually hanging out and having fun. + Why do I find them cute when they all finally assembled? Hahaha! What an adorable bunch. <3

Story - 9.5, Although I hate the fact that the entire Main cast was killed; I guess, I'm just glad that it was done in a logical and valorous way. Like I mention above I can never do this drama dirty just because I hate its ending, so I would still give credits where it's due. Also, it's one of those dramas where both leads are cool and highly skilled; and coincidently the two fo them wanted to live peacefully and normally but how dare the Writer give them an actual eternal peace!

Acting/Cast - 10, I believe my above sentiments is enough to explain how satisfied I am with the casting and acting on this drama. So, let me take this time to mention how great of a choice for them to cast both Liu Yu Ning and Liu Shi Shi. First of, I wanna say that I'm mad at those people who are hating on Liu Yu Ning just because he's not handsome enough? when his role doesn't require him to be one! and he's so damn fine from head to toe. So whatdaheck!? Liu Shi Shi on the otherhand is a full package for her role. Beautiful that's goddess-like and a real badass seductress! Her stares hypnotizes me to the point where I'm down on my knees every single time. Lol

Music - 10, I will boldly declare and claim that this drama's Music Team is on the same level of those in K-dramas. All the music used are endearing and perfectly fits each of the scene they're used for. This is also the first time in 2 years? where I literally downloaded and added the songs to my playlist for offline listening (Spotify).

Rewatch Value - 10, Honestly, I would still rewatch and will also highly recommend this to everyone. I mean, the cool and badass scenes each episode are enough to make me rewatch this. Not to mention how entertaining this show is as a whole.

Overall - 9.5, I still feel bad of the tragic ending but this drama is simply not one of those craps out there that I can derate solely for it's ending—because this is more than that! Nonetheless, I would like to encourage everyone to watch this drama to experience the entertainment and pleasure I felt when I was binge watching like crazy.

IF you find my review helpful please let me know

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You won't regret the journey watching this drama

This show captivates from the very first episode. The costumes and cinematography are excellent, and the actors are perfectly cast, delivering stellar performances. The cast is not only talented but also very good looking. The story is beautifully written, and the acting is top notch.

The action scenes left me breathless and cheering. The bromance made me smile, the comedic moments had me laughing out loud, and the sweet scenes made my heart flutter. When Ruyi and Chief Ning gaze and smile at each other, it made me smile too! Their chemistry is undeniable.

The individual stories and character development made me root for them and love them. This investment in the characters is why their struggles broke my heart into tiny pieces and brought me to tears. Every twist and turn in their journey kept me on the edge of my seat, fully immersed in their world.

The soundtrack also deserves a mention. The music perfectly complements the mood of each scene, enhancing the emotional impact. The attention to detail in every aspect of the production is evident and adds to the overall enjoyment of the series.

The ending wasn’t what I expected, and I know many were disappointed. Without giving any spoilers, I hoped for a different conclusion. However, the final scene highlighted the enduring brotherhood and love between the characters, which softened the sting of the preceding events. The journey to the end was filled with so many memorable moments that I couldn't help but appreciate the story as a whole.

Despite my mixed feelings about the ending, I highly recommend this series. It's definitely one of my favorites. The blend of action, comedy, romance, and drama creates a rich and engaging narrative that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Not perfect but give it go. You won't regret it.

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Thanks for coming into my life

This drama made me laugh just as hard as it made me cry my eyes out. 10/10 would recommend.


What a painfully perfect way to start 2024. I loved this drama from start to finish so I want to sing its praises since it’s not often I binge a 40 episode c-drama and don’t feel I’ve totally just wasted my time.

The plot is both simple, easy to understand whilst also being pretty complicated, as it talks about the intricacies of human relationships in relations to royal families, war, politics, found family and of course romance. There were beautifully executed fight scenes, tearful moments and very unexpectedly funny scenes. Like I had moment where I’d burst out into laughter after a scene being completely unexpected.

Every person in this drama has a personality, they all have feelings and emotions that justify their beliefs and decisions. There’s no saintly good person, and there’s no blindly evil character.

Now, onto the main couple, Ning Yuanzhou and Ren Ruyi. Their acting both as individuals and a couple was amazing. The chemistry was passionate and strong, and they were just as strong alone. Their relationship was built on mutual love and respect for one another and it remained that way throughout. I loved their romantic build up, the actual relationship and the way it progressed, I was in love with absolutely everything about their love.

Ruyi, our fl, is badass personified. A strong, powerful assassin to the end, and she was never made to appear weak or incapable due to falling in love. If anything love made her a more thoughtful, impactful person.
Ning Yuanzhou, the ml, is also a strong person who values deep human relationships above all else. He never wavers when it come to defending his family, even if that means staring down the fricking emperor. The respect he has for Ruyi was so swoonworthy and cute, I was quite literally kicking my feet and giggling whilst being slightly upset that he is a fictional character.

I mean where does one find a man who sees me as an individual, and constantly encourages, loves and supports me no matter what, whilst also being outrageously fine af (I say as someone with 0 experience lol). I can’t put it into words how perfect this man was to me. *tearful emoji*

On another hand, the entire cast of the drama were enjoyable. Nobody bored me and although some did annoy me, it just added to the enjoyability of the whole drama.

The extensive soundtrack of this drama was flawlessly beautiful. It was impactful, perfectly timed and honestly just sounded amazing.

To conclude, 40 episodes wasn’t enough. For my piece of mind, I need at least another episode so I can see in detail how everyone’s lives turned out. (Preferably another like 10 episodes but that’s pretty unlikely ik lol).

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Totally worth it!!

-A journey to love

Based on the title itself, I'm asking myself, whose journey is this? The answer is crystal clear after watching this couple times: Ruyi! It's not about Boss Ning or the other brothers. Ruyi as the best assassin (been mentioned multiple times since beginning till the end) originally doesn’t know what is love. She only knows about killing, following orders, and gets the job done. She is so used to work by herself and doesn't know how to react to NYZ's jealousy except by being angry, leading to their "breakup.” Only later on, she learns that she is not alone. When NYZ is trying to decide for her, what's the best for them and their relationship, it doesn't feel right in Ruyi's heart at first. However, in their journey as a couple, Ruyi learns to trust him and sees his point of views.

A journey to love: love your partner, your friends, your community and most importantly, yourself! Ruyi needs to learn all of that. The whole series show her progress from being alone to be able to accept others.

To me, it's a very deep self-reflection question asked by NYZ to Ruyi about the reasons behind the last messages from Empress of An to her. It's also the beginning of her journey to learn to love herself. NYZ and the bond he has with all his "brothers" are all crucial for Ruyi's journey.

Ruyi's character development is wonderful, making her more like human, not only cold blooded assassin. She feels the pain of losing people who is dear to her. She allows NYZ to deal with LTG. She is afraid NYZ gets hurt during the war, etc.

This drama is 10/10 for me. Lots of wisdoms and lessons learned throughout the drama. Exceptional bonds of the brothers. People come and go in our lives but the good memories last forever. Finding true friends is definitely priceless. All the actors and actresses perfectly show their emotions so we as viewers can truly feel their feelings: the joy/pain/sorrow/love/hope/fear. Kudos to all of them. Then, there's the songs. Each background songs and sounds are perfectly played. Heroic fighting scenes. Cool weapons. Beautiful costumes.

In the last episode, the drama portrays the casualties of the wars. Since episodes 35-40, lots of death. It's really depressing, but that's the reality of wars. The scene feels so real, so sad, and painfully heartbreaking.

Now about the ending: The conversations between CY and the boy are in the real life, not a dream of CY.

Couple main reasons why I believe that:
1. It's obvious that Ruyi believes suicide is for the weak! She will not betray her beliefs. She's been true to herself from the beginning. That clue makes me think yes, she survived the explosion.
2. When the boy mentions his name, CY right away asks if his mother's last name is Ren? She knows straightaway Ruyi is still alive. Her surprise facial expression is more like, "is this real?!" kinda feeling because after so many years, she's surprisingly able to possibly meet Ruyi and NYZ again. Another clues that make me considering she knows that Ruyi is alive is when she stops YY from stopping Ruyi to go to the camp. She knows she can't change Ruyi's decisions. Tbh, I believe even LTG and YY know that Ruyi is planning to fake her deaths and withdrawing herself for good afterwards. Why so? LTG being so devoted to his master will never allow Ruyi to go to suicide mission unless he knows that Ruyi plans to withdraw herself with NYZ who miraculously survived the tower attacks. YY also said she believes Ruyi is the best assassin in the world and will successfully finish the mission.
3. The boy is giving so clear and detailed informations about his family. The boy also mentions his dad loves his sister the most, indicating NYZ is alive too. Last name: Ning. Dad can only be NYZ. Both kids name have Shisan (from Yu Shisan) and Lu (Yuan Lu). For CY to have a dream out of nowhere like some people think, I will have to disagree. The scene where CY sees the rest of the gang behind Ruyi and NYZ, I will interpret that as she believes they're the ones who protects Ruyi and NYZ to survive. The 4 brothers will always on their back. The vast green land (peaceful place) is also the perfect place to think like that as all 6 of them really contribute to the peace they have now.

This series is indeed a journey to love for our main lead, Ruyi. I also think it’s still a happy ending, at least for the main leads and many other people (netizens of both An and Wu).

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You pay for every single laugh you had with your tears

A beautiful drama in every way. It is different from most other historical cdramas that i have watched in many aspects. Firstly, the story's main characters are people who despite being in high positions, have to constantly fight in the frontline, which is something rarely shown. So we see the entire drama from the point of view of a group of spies/soldiers and an extraordinary assassin, who are all mere servants to the higher powers, whose lives don't belong to themselves. It was a fresh take to watch a drama in which the topmost people aren't everything. The kings, princes and other sheltered people aren't the main characters, rather it is a story of how these lower level people have to sacrifice themselves to protect the bigger fishes and citizens in general.

Story and characters: As beautifully it is written is it executed, unlike most cdramas where either the story is trash or is its execution. The story builds up while holding all our feelings in a grip for the first few episodes. The pacing is perfect. It portrayed romantic love, familial affection, brotherhood and friendship in a wonderful way. Also, no character is pure black or white, they all have good and bad in them together, well except maybe the An king. Almost all of them show growth in some way too. The FL is a true badass strong female character worth everything, i didn't expect that Ruyi would steal my heart. She deserved every bit of the respect and love she got from all the characters, including the ml. Nobody was shallow enough to love her solely for her beauty, unlike in most cdramas. The ML is just as strong and endearing. Their feelings develop rather quick, and they stick through thick and thin together and both show growth in areas they lack, they come to trust, understand and rely on each other, make sacrifices and compromises for one another, empower and balance each other, aid and grow together. They are equal, and show mutual respect for each other and their choices and have clear communication the entire time. Both are in tune with each other in every way. They are a mature couple and it helped that they weren't playing teenage characters, rather people almost in their 30s. They were people who had gone through a lot already in their own lives and knew their possible fates. The other main characters Yuan Lu, Yu Shisan were particularly very adorable, Sun Lang had lesser scenes but just as likeable, Qian Zhao was a 2d character who had much growth and different sides to him. Yang Ying was a complicated character who perhaps had the greatest character growth, i grew to like her quite a bit. Li Tongguang was another complicated obsessed to borderline crazy one, he was the typical crazy 2ml, but he wasn't the smartest. He was actually awful and incompetent and i hate him for his decisions which grew more stupid one by one, which led to disasters. I felt so bad for Chu Yue as well, she was so likeable, yet her romance ended before it could even blossom. The wu emperor grew on me as well when he redeemed himself. As befitting as the ending was, it was simply tragic to the point of extremely depressing and those characters didn't deserve that especially when so many deaths could've been easily avoided if the writers wanted to. The series of tragedy began in ep 35 and spanned for 6 whole episodes till 40, there were a few sweet moments in ep 38 though. The pain hit like a truck for real. Those subtle scenes, those reminiscent moments by the characters, them knowingly jumping to their deaths, the realizations of what is going to happen was just so painful. Also, so many deaths could've been prevented, but well that wouldn't cause as much heartbreak then.
This drama made me grow to fall in love with the entire group, with countless hilarious moments, them being like a real family to each other to losing them one by one in a torturous series of 6 eps. And although they showed an open ending, i took it as the logical and rational sad ending as stipulated outwardly by the iqiyi page. So i cried more. But it depends on the viewer about how they want to interpret the ending. At least they are together somewhere.

Production- Cinematography, choreography, editing, soundtrack, costumes and styling and makeup, you name it. Everything was freaking top notch, perfection. I really have nothing to say about the acting of the main cast, they all did phenomenal job. It was LYN's first time being the main male lead and he aced his role. LSS was simply perfect. FYL did a great job with his micro expressions.

They wanted us to cry and they did exactly what was needed. Made us love all the characters then killed them off slowly, prolonging the torture. The heading of my review is what i felt the most watching this. I laughed in 30+ episodes and then spent the last 6 episodes crying, bawling my eyes out. Honestly i don't remember the last time i cried this much over a drama. Do i recommend watching it? Hell yes i do. But maybe stop at ep 34 midway. Else get ready with tissues, chances are your pillows can't soak up all the tears. -0.5 for all the heartbreak it caused me and to the characters who deserved better and an ending that could've been better than this.
This wasn't a drama about all the characters finding love on their way by the end of the show, rather one where no matter what the future held, everyone loved the journey to the end. A journey to be loved, rather than a journey towards finding love. That's how i interpret the title 'A Journey to Love'.

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RuyiZhou, my Heart!!

A Journey To Love is one of the BEST historical drama out there. This is the first time I'm writing a review but this show seriously deserves it!! This show is action-packed, contains such a heartfelt love story you can't help but be encapsulated!! Seriously, a female lead who doesn't bow down in danger and knows what she wants , a rare gem in Cdramas. You can't help but fall in love with the supporting characters, the writing allows each character to shine in its own way, giving the watcher so much information on every individual and laying it out perfectly!! The FL, Ren Ruyi has SO much depth, she kills without remorse and doesn't hesitate, (I might be a little problematic for liking this, but whatever!!) The ML Yuan Zhou, ugh I started not liking him in the beginning but came to love him just as much as Ruyi. His character is so compassionate and genuine, a perfect balance to Ruyi's persistent personality. Each episode had me HOOKED, not a single skip, coming from someone who skips a lot in dramas like this. Please, if you're looking for an attention-grabbing historical Cdrama, this is one of the best, if it wasn't for my personal bias for "Love Like the Galaxy", this would be number 1 on my list.

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The powerful and bad-ass wuxia couple of the 2023!!!❤️

*** Spoiler Alert (PERSONAL FEEDBACK)
Title : A Journey to Love – 2023 (Complete 40 Episode)
Personal Rating : 9.5/10

The powerful and bad-ass wuxia couple of the 2023!!!❤️

Ren Ru Yi / Ren Xin (Liu Shi Shi) is a beautiful, smart and the best female assassin of AN State. She is also the former Scarlet Guard Left Emissary.

Ning Yuan Zhou (Played by Liu Yu Ning) is the smart and powerful leader of the WU State's Liu Dao Hall. He was the former deputy chief of Liu Dao Hall till he was imprisoned and framed by the other Liu Dao Hall leader.
This drama is about Ren Ru Yi and Ning Yuan Zhou falling in love while in a journey from WU State to AN State.
It started when the Emperor of WU State was lost in the war due to his mis planning and underestimating the enemy. The Wu Emperor was taken as a hostage by the AN State and AN state is asking for a ransom, but it should be given/envoy by WU Prince. Princess Yang Ying volunteer to be the envoy and pretended to be a prince. The princess was promised to be given something in return if she fulfilled her mission.

Upon knowing that Princess Yang Ying volunteer to be the envoy and the Heaven Path guards died without dignity and called as traitor, Ning Yuan Zhou re-join the Liu Dao Hall as the Chief. He will escort Princess Yang Ying who she treated as his own little sister and bring the Emperor back to WU state so he can announce that Heaven Path guards are loyal, brave and died at the line of duty. He started his journey by forming his own team of guards from the Liu Dao Hall. ( Delegation Team )
(Yu Shi San – Asura Path , Yuan Lu – Hungry Ghost Path , Qian Zhao – Heaven Path , Sun Lang – Human Path)
Ren Ru Yi was on his way to AN state to revenge the death of the Empress of AN (she treated as mother) and to know who killed all the White Sparrow guards in WU State branch. On her way to AN State, she was asked by Ning Yuan Zhou to assist Princess Yang Ying regarding all information about AN State and on return, Ning Yuan Zhou will help her to get all the information on who killed the Empress of AN. She joined the Delegation Team and has one more wish to fulfill (wish by Empress of AN - to have a child), she wanted to have a child with Ning Yuan Zhou.

Overall, this is one of the best Wuxia dramas for me. I can give it a 10/10 but the ending is so sad, so I gave it 9.5/10. Don't get me wrong it should be 10/10 even it has a sad ending but because they died separately and didn't see each other till their last moment that's why I gave it a 9.5.💔

The story was superb, the actors & actresses embodied characters so well. Each character is unique. I love the brotherhood of the Luidao hall guards. They respect, understand, trust, and support each other till death. (LITERALLY TILL DEATH!) 😭💔
I love the couple too because even though they are both powerful they can still protect each other. Both can rest assured that they have each other’s back, and they can understand each other since they are both leaders. They treat each other as partners/equals.

Honestly, I hate sad and tragic endings but A Journey to Love is different. It was a hell of rollercoaster emotions. I cried a bucket like a baby and laughed a lot throughout the episodes. I recommend it to all the Wuxia drama lovers. Don't mind the negativity because you will missed a GEM. The actions scenes are top notch. I kept on repeating it. Hahahaha! The ending could be better but still it is one of the best for me. 🤎 This is my first drama of both the LEAD now I am a fan. 😍
P.S – I was a bit lost about the ending, I read and asked some viewers about their understanding about the ending. So, I’ll go with this – Maybe it is just coincidence that both kids are named REN LU & NING SHISAN because they are named after famous heroes. (REN RU YI , YUAN LU) & (NING YUAN ZHOU , YU SHISAN).

GENRE – Romance, Wuxia, Drama, Political

OST -- Offer by Liu Yu Ning (Got me hooked and heartbroken at the same time whenever I listen to it)

LEAD CAST – Liu Yu Ning , Liu Shi Shi

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A journey that started well, took a detour and ended with…

… rain and a mirage.

Despite knowing that the last few episodes will be rushed and unexpected, I wanted to watch this as many have raved about how good the first 3/4 of the drama is. With each episode I enjoyed, my heart filled with dread to think how bad it could get towards the end… Thank goodness, it wasn’t as bad as I had expected.

The first 20 episodes were promising - good story which was beautifully shot, nicely paced and well edited. Then in the last quarter, the story unfolded very quickly with many things happening without much explanation so you were forced to accept things as they were (when the story revolved around the betrayal in Wu).

A romance that is realistic and grown up from the way they are attracted to each other to the way they express it to each other and sadly, to the way they contemplate if their different needs will make them happy to be together. Kisses are few but so much more meaningful than Wonderland of Love. The romance atmosphere sizzles instead with beautifully captured looks and embraces. Past the halfway mark, the romantic moments got a bit draggy and forced.

Humour done right with just enough to lighten the atmosphere and not over the top like My Journey To You. It is woven into the story naturally and does not just focus on one character being the court jester of the drama. While most of it comes from the self proclaimed expert on women which he plays very well, I also laughed out loud when the princess went from suicidal to talking about sweet and sour flavoured poison. I also loved the humorous sign language moments which are not usually found in dramas.

Acting was top notch. Both the ML and FL were good together and their chemistry in the beginning episodes were more touching. What I unexpectedly enjoyed were the sparks of love of the other 2 “couples” - very heartfelt and touching. 2 characters which I particularly like are the Princess and the Casanova. Seeing the princess transform realistically from playful and naive to independent and smart was a joy especially how she tried to save herself when she was “left behind” after her brother was rescued. My heart was constantly tugged with the complex Casanova character - the actor brilliantly portrayed his carefree attitude which hid so much deeper emotions within.

The fighting scenes were well choreographed and I enjoyed it despite it being super hero level martial arts as they also showed the leads sustaining injuries from the fight.

I accept what happened to the ML and FL in the end as it flowed well within the story. But the flash forward sequence (more than 10 years later) which vaguely alluded to children that could have been theirs and a dreamlike sequence which happened with a character that doesn't have a strong bond with them did not sit well with me. I would rather see how the princess turned out in the future and let her be the one to reminisce about the heroes.

Random notes:
1. Episode 10 - Crimson Guard received a secret message from a pigeon in the usual 2 inch length cylinder vessel. Next scene shows her unscrolling the message 5 inches long from top to bottom and 7 inches wide…
2. Not sure why all the romantic scenes were ok then for the one at night in the cave, there was the dreaded giant spotlight shining from behind the couples face… and the light came from the cave…

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