Secrets of the Shadow Sect (2024)

Both are historical mini dramas with a subservient and secretive bodyguard ML and a domineering FL. Both dramas have a similar vibe.

Both are mini dramas with a similar vibe, with the FLs thought of as evil and the MLs subservient to them but powerful fighters.

- Similar dynamic between the leads but roles reversed while still being role reversal XD (In SotSS FL is a sect leader and ML is her guard while in DLX ML is the prince and FL is his maid/guard and tutor)
- Femdom x Malesub
- Both are very steamy with women taking the lead
- Gender Role Reversal
- "Us against the world" dynamic
- Master/servant relationship
- Power couple. Strong FL x Strong ML
- Dark(er) romance vibes

Both are mini dramas with the same actress as the FL, and in both she's a strong and domineering character. MLs are weaker or subservient and "belong" to the FL.

In both -
1. FL is dominant & leader of sect/ general of kingdom
2. ML is submissive & her bodyguard/ matrilocal husband
3. ML has hidden agenda but falls in love with her

- Female ruler
- FL has a harem of concubines
- ML is a skilled fighter sent to FL to spy/kill her
- ML becomes her favourite concubine
- Flirty FL x Tsundere ML
- Gender role reversal themes

SotSS is wuxia and assassination focused so overall darker and more plot heavy while WWLQ is more of a lighthearted comedy.

Fantasy action melodrama with romance
Immortals
Supernatural beings
Falling in love
Intense
Action packed

- Ruler FL (Empress in FJ, Sect Leader in SotSS)
- Strong, cold, and badass FL
- ML is her consort/concubine
- Cold Woman x Cold Man
- Strong ML x Strong FL
- Warrior ML (Assassin in SotSS, General in FJ)
- Jealous SML
- Reverse Harem (multiple men vying for FL)
- Gender Role Reversal
- Similar steamy scenes
- Bonus detail: A couple of locations in common xD

Differences: SotSS is wuxia/sect themed while FJ is palace themed. In SotSS FL has a reputation for being a playgirl and in FJ there is a reincarnation arc.

Historical period prices with supernatural and fantasy Elements
Action packed
Both are Chinese dramas
Romance

Secrets of the Shadow Sect is basically My Journey to You reversed and focused on the secondary couple.

Both are short length historical dramas. ML is submissive with a secret, FL dominant and keeps a harem of men.

Spy and "secret" group. The killer is Also Romantic is more comical. Both are also a short-episodic drama.

Both are historical mini dramas with a secretive, submissive ML and a domineering and powerful FL. Both have shadowy sects and schemes.

- Rich FL / Poor ML
- FL is in a position of power (Sect leader in SotSS, CEO in Fake Love)
- ML is FL's boytoy/pet (concubine in SotSS, sugar baby in Fake Love)
- Protective FL
- Cool, mature and assertive FL
- Gender role reversal elements
- Dominant FL x Submissive ML
- Both are using each other
- Steamy romantic scenes + good chemistry
- Problematic SML hurting FL

Obviously, SotSS is a historical wuxia while Fake Love is a contemporary romance but there were similarities with certain elements and especially the lead's dynamic

Similar:
Must escape big bad enemy
Action packed
Identity plays a role in the story
Dark

Different:
Mainly about male lead
More romance oriented