Flourished Peony

Hell Yeah ?✨

Although it was almost unbearable to watch what she had to go through at first, I’m very happy with how it ended. The best part is that it wasn’t rushed into a “let’s wrap it all up in one episode” kind of ending. This is probably because they’re planning a Part 2, but so far, both the acting and the story are progressing well.

I also really liked how the male lead (ML) and female lead (FML) didn’t suddenly jump into a relationship with an "Okay, now we’re a couple" moment. Instead, their feelings were portrayed very slowly and realistically. I’m very curious about Part 2 and how the story will unfold. The last episode, in particular, was so warm and fluffy—it left me feeling very content.

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Are Women Human?

The answer, according to the historical time of this drama, is "No." Women are property and bargaining chips, to be treated and sold as the men in their lives see fit. Even the women who are loved by the men in their lives are still not treated as fellow humans.

But our drama, of course, has other opinions.

I will rework some thoughts I had after watching Season 2, In The Name of Blossom, in this review so I don't give away too much of that season's beats and only include the parts relevant to this season. But I have finished both seasons, so just know I'm keeping both in mind as I write this review.

As @PeachBlossomGoddess's review states very insightfully, one of the overarching themes of this drama is that none of these characters seems to have the freedom to be what they want to be, and each character is a case study on how people respond to scenarios where this reality is the case. Mu Dan, Liu Chang, Jiang Chang Yang, Sheng Yi, the Emperor--no one is exempt!

This is more of a theme in this season than Season 2, but it never goes away. So many of these characters feel trapped by their role and fate in society (whether they're poor, someone without connections, a wife helpless against her husband who's beating her, a woman who cannot be anything but second-class, a concubine vying amongst other concubines for her husband's attention, a son or a daughter who cannot go against their parents, etc.), and into such a backdrop, enter our leads.

They are solidly modern (and progressively so even according to many 21st century standards), and are a stark contrast to most of the characters in this drama who are stuck in their historical roles. (This of course, does not mean our leads don't have progress/growth to work through; that's was Season 2 deals with.)

The sub-theme of this drama is the question asked in my title. Related questions explored are some of the following: If women ARE human, what does that mean for them? Are they free to choose how to live their lives, and how does that mean men/husband/fathers should treat them? Must women depend on men to be happy and flourish in life?

Mu Dan is not perfect, but she fights for flourishing, not only for herself, but also for any pitiable soul she encounters along the way. She refuses to believe that flourishing comes from anyone but herself, and never places her hopes for happiness on another. She's fiercely optimistic, and as clever as they come. She never lets anything faze her. She often projects her own dreams and goals onto the more impressionable women she saves in order to give them an alternate and better future, and this is one of her blind spots. She's well-intentioned, but her efforts don't always work out how she expects or hopes.

What I found refreshingly different about this drama was our male lead, Jiang Chang Yang. I thought Jiang Chang Yang was a fascinating case study in how the man in a relationship can function, and I kind of loved his character. I ended up loving that he was rarely there to swoop in and save her when she encountered trouble (or when he tried, she had already gotten herself out of it by the time he showed up; in those moments when the ML usually flies in to the save the day, Jiang Chang Yang was noticeably absent), and trusted her to make her own choices, solve her own problems, and win her own battles. He only helps her when she asks for it. The role he played had its own, unexpected charm, and felt refreshingly new. I think the word that comes to mind that describes how he treats Mu Dan is "dignity"--it's what Jiang Chang Yang extends to Mu Dan as a fellow human, not just as "a woman." Not something you see very often in a romance, and somehow they still managed to make their interactions romantic, even though this is a very nontraditional relationship dynamic that many are probably not used to.

These two unique characters slowly become closer and grow more attached as they work together, spend more time together, and grow in admiration for each other while vowing never to marry (heh, take a guess at how that goes for them! :P). That's where Season 1 leaves off, and Season 2 begins.

These questions about the dynamic between man and woman/husband and wife is one of the themes that largely characterizes Season 2. How can a husband and wife be individuals and respect one another's autonomy, while also caring so much for each other that they never want to be parted from each other or see harm come to the other?

Buckle up for an angsty ride if you want to see the drama's answer to that quandary in Season 2!

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A withered Peony flourished through hardships and hard work.

NOTE: I don't really know much about this drama (aside from its cast) when I first picked it; reason why my commentary below mostly expresses my initial reaction of this story alone (1st half) and will focus on it. Which means it doesn't include whatever happened on the sequel (2nd half). That being said, please allow me to share my experience watching this show.

I picked this drama hoping to have fun and enjoyment..little did I know that I am luring myself into a crazy combination of emotional frustration and entertainment. This story presented me some of the most frustrating scenes I have not seen in a long time, while simultaneously giving us excitement, thrill and inspiration.

The pacing of the drama was quite slow which made me feel like a significant amount of time is being wasted (knowing that we only have 32 episodes). However, upon learning that this is just the 1st part consoled me a lot; because finally, I can chill and calmly watch it with peace knowing that it will not be a rushed production that will give us messy patched up ending out of their incompetence.

The 1st half of the story is like the introduction of the FLs (Mu Dan) sufferings in order to rebuild herself after a failed marriage and various miseries that almost cost her, her life. It focuses on the challenges and hardships she had to endure in order to obtain a foothold and gradually achieve her dreams.

I loathe some aspects of the story at first as it mostly presents constant suffering and scheming. But as the show progresses, I have grown to understand what it truly signifies...that this drama wasn't meant to be judged only by its 32 episodes, as it's a part of a whole; and that the writer, producer, and director have tried their best to show us real-life occurrences and issues of the people who lived in the Tang dynasty—which is also related to the problems we are facing today—that way we're be able to put ourselves in the characters' shoes in order to understand and acknowledge their feelings and sentiments.

One perfect example is Wu Niang/ Qin Sheng Yi - I used to see this woman as someone who never learned her lesson—a woman who was too kind to the point of naivety. I feel for her agony and pain but also find her utterly stupid. However after some deep reflection, I gradually understand where her worries, hesitation and inhibition are coming from. She was treated as if a woman can only survive with men's support and guidance so it was natural for her to feel intimidated and inferior. She's self-deprecating for a reason and I now find her thoughts and emotions valid. Although, I still find her gullible for re-marrying her abusive and opportunistic husband but hey! I cheered when she stabbed him to death and was sad and proud when she took her own life as a sign and proof of her innocence and defiance against the law's partiality towards men.

My heart goes to Liu Chang/Zi Shu (2ML)...he's one of the greatest victim of all the mess yet branded as someone "Prideful but coward". I was rooting for him at some point for the FL; too bad he was too dense to understand the gravity of some (if not most) situations and is always tolerating his parents wrongdoings. I pity him for being powerless, feel sad for what he has become, admires him for his loyalty and resolute attitude and hates him for being an incompetent husband and overly devoted son.

Lastly, I finally found the 2nd most scarred/wounded female protagonist after Li Changge (Dilraba's character in The Long Ballad). I emphatize with Mu Dan so much. The 1st family she's married into made her almost lose her wits doing everything she can to escape the marriage and household who made use, abused and taken advantage of her and yet she can't do it easily as she's being targeted and faced with their grim/nasty schemes; and right after going to Chang'an she still had to face their undercover tactics and much cruel oppression with the help of Prince Ning & the ever malevolent Li You Zhen. She have done nothing but offer everyone sincerity and kindness yet repaid in such a in evil way.

I will have to end this review here as I feel like providing much commentary about the story is inappropriate since I haven't finished the whole story yet. Nonetheless, I can assure everyone that this 1st half is all about women's woe, misery and survival.

P.S. This drama won the "Most fucked up Wedding ceremony" Award. No woman deserves to be treated coldly during their wedding, more so, the whole year of their marriage life. Fortunately, Mu Dan took it lightly because if not...devasting!

Story - 9.0, The story was greatly told. My main issue about this drama is their phasing—they leisurely took their time with how the story progresses that It became tiring to watch at one point. It would've been really nice if they included some vital development of the main leads romantic relationship here instead of putting it almost entirely on the 2nd half.

Acting/Cast - 10, I am extremely satisfied of the cast. It's my 1st time watching both Yang Zi & Li Xian in a costume drama and I must say that they are both very good at it. I love the supporting actors/actresses as well.

Music - 10, The set of songs used are good. I enjoyed it a lot and it naturally fits the scenes and vibe of the drama.

Rewatch Value - 8.5, I wouldn't mind re-watching it but will not do so unless necessary. This half is significant as it holds the introduction of the story and progress of the characters for who they have become on the 2nd part. So watching part 1 is essential before jumping into the Part 2.

Overall - 9.0, I feel like this is the fair rating for this show. The story was good, however, I think it would've been better if they were more efficient in handling the pacing of the scenes and development of the main leads romance.

IF you find my review helpful please let me know.

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Flourished Peony

I was hooked on this drama from the very beginning! It masterfully captured my attention with its compelling characters and intricate plot. However, as the story progressed, I found myself torn about its focus—was it championing the empowerment of women or exposing and taking down corrupt officials? While both themes are important, the balance felt a bit muddled at times.

I’ve heard there’s a season 2 in the works, but honestly, I’m curious about where the story could go next. It felt like most of the major arcs could have been resolved within one season. That said, if season 2 can refine its focus and expand on its themes, it could be a great continuation.

Overall, it’s a drama worth watching, but I’m hoping for even greater things in the next season.

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Disappointed at the end of this season ... I'm waiting for season 2 to give a real rating.

Romantic-historical series with Li Xian and Yang Zi (I had so high expectations) but Season 1 (friendship only) with lengths...

PLOT: During the Tang Dynasty, He Wei Fang, the daughter of a merchant skilled in growing rare peonies, leaves a marriage of convenience with the help of Jiang Chang Yang, an official from Chang'an. She started a peony growing company, a flower store, empowering women with difficult pasts and creating a thriving brand. To secure their lives, they get married (only marriage in name, but the ML is in love).

+++ Great cast, high-budget production (beautifull sets, costumes, ...)
+++ Excellent OSTs

### Lengths :( The paced is too slow ....
### Only friendship in the CL at the end of the season1

=> Disappointed at the end of this season ... I'm waiting for season 2 to give a real rating.
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Série Rom-hist avec Li Xian et Yang Zi (donc attentes élevées) mais Saison 1 (friendship only) avec longueurs ...

PLOT: Sous la dynastie Tang, He Wei Fang, la fille d'un marchand habile à cultiver des pivoines rares, quitte un mariage de convenance avec l'aide de Jiang Chang Yang, un fonctionnaire de Chang'an. Elle démarre 1 Cie de culture de pivoines,1 magasin de fleurs, responsabilisant les femmes au passé difficile et créant une marque florissante. Pr sécuriser leur vie, ils se marient (only mariage in name, but the ML is in love).

+++ Super cast, high-budget production (beautifull sets, costumes, ...)
+++ Excellent OSTs

### Des longueurs :(
### Tjs only friendship at the end of the season1

=> Disappointed at the end of this season ... I'm waiting for the season 2 to give a real rating.

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great writing great execution

This drama is beautifully written from the start to the end. Please note that it has a part 2 which is planned to be released later on so these first 32 chapters shows the build up of our main character Mu Dan.

The story is highly based on women empowerment and it’s done so well. You won’t have random moments of the male lead suddenly appearing to save her but instead she finds her own way to solve her issues. The FL is extremely smart and is a great business woman. The ML is the emperor’s closest friend who puts on a facade of being a playboy but he is actually very smart and caring as well.

The drama showcases her hardships as a woman living in a society where they are discredited and not respected. She gives other women the courage to love themselves and live their own life instead of depending 100% on the men.

The pacing of the story is very logical and really easy to follow. The cinematography is amazing and the colour tone of the entire drama is beautiful. I was in awe watching some of the scenes.

To some you may think that there isn’t any excitement or huge issues in the drama to keep u on your toes but this is just the beginning. The writers have set the foundation really well for part 2.

The romance is slowww burn so don’t expect much for this season (but they do get “married” at the end)

Kudos to YangZi and Lixian who once again showed really good chemistry and YangZi acted very well for her character. Although the wait might be long but really looking forward to part 2!

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Sizzling Tang romance

Beautiful and warm. The Tang Dynasty, southern weather, beautiful colors and amazing actors. 32eps x 45mins ea = 24 hrs watch time. ( the part 2 has only 24 eps = 18 hrs) This was originally scripted and mostly produced as a grand drama of 56 eps., but as a result of new rules limiting dramas to no more than 40 episodes it was broken into two and renamed. I would advise chunking it up into a few large sections for bingeing which bridge that break (20/20/16 would do it).

Watching on air, I thought fondly about The Floral Envoy and Madam He, the plucky floriculturist (played by the talented actors Li Xian and Yang Zi, respectively) throughout the week as if they were flesh and blood. I watched the opening and closing credits all the way through each time, I loved the show so much.

Yang Zi's beauty puts all the bubbly-girls' looks to shame and, unlike in some of the recent female-centric Cdramas, her portrayal of female strength is professionally centered in the character itself. The plot so realistically depicts the fragility of the space in which any woman then and even now can/could flourish that dramatic tension is created by this alone. One worried constantly about all the ways in which jealous or threatened men (and one very jealous princess) could destroy her life or her business enterprise.

In Will Love in Spring, Li Xian seemed to have an innate fierceness, which here in the character of Jiang Changyang is transmuted into mischievousness. It enables ChangYang to reach out to Madam He at the same time as he steps back. He is completely smitten with her and it makes him so attractive in a movie-star sort of way. I havent read the novel but it sounds like Li Xian has improved the character he plays.

Musicality and pure emotion are the secret greedy pleasures of Kdrama, while in Cdrama it is ethics and antiquarian concerns. The costuming and makeup in this show are so authentic that even scholars got their knickers in twists. The pleasure houses and gardens are great and the many sorts of performances, dancers, singers, puppeteers. Super interesting.

I dont want to say more about all of the four main actors' amazing skills and their characters, because, once again, mdl has published a great interview with the writer, who has said anything I might have wanted to, but better.

However, However. I was incredibly ridiculously disappointed by the lack of clear signals of intimacy at the very end. I really wanted these two lovers to be more serious, to look each other in the eyes and give us at least one lovely kiss.. I even actually contemplated a non-romantic ending where two good friends grow old together (Nah. Not these two.)..I D ID NOT KNOW THERE WAS A PART TWO COMING!!!

Slow burn, sizzling, the strength of their attraction is there, and all the ways in which they physically and emotionally trust each other, from the beginnWng. She grills him dinner in her courtyard every night, he regularly shows up to save her just when all is lost, they put on a fake concubine-marriage for which they happily hang out several times in their pajamas together in a bridal suite in his mansion. He and she have drunk long-buried wedding wine...and now we have to wait . Urgh. Looking for other shows of theirs to watch, I guess...

ps. My take on mme. Wei Fang's interactions with Changyang so far is that she is not willfully obtuse at all. She really enjoys the attention and the flirting. This isnt an annoying juvenile and or damaged FL at all. Remember she is still a virgin, so protective and practical of her own value. And, obviously, a businesswoman whose enterprise is not at the stage where a child would not complicate her attention and energy. I think she balances her needs and responsibilities well. She cares for him, is attentive to his needs and his past wounds, but definitely creates a safe and clear boundary...soon to dissolve!!!

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Brilliant Cliffhanger

I loved everything about this drama. Every character was played well. You experienced the gamut of emotions - loathing, sorrow, joy, frustration, disappointment, injustice, compassion, ire.

The bad guys were truly bad. The women were treated worse than livestock, parents used their children to curry favor with corrupt officials, abuse was everywhere.

And yet our ML and FL refused to buckle to the tyranny of authority and wanted to pave the way to where all human beings were treated with dignity and respect.

The flowers were beautiful. Male abusive dominance, manipulation and threats were not. Yet both were living lives that aware markedly different,m. Even though the ML had a reputation of a philandering playboy, it was all an act.

The tacit communication and cooperation of the ML and FL was done very well in both the writing of the script, direction and acting.

While this is a period drama, the battle for female rights are very modern but played out extremely well.

I look forward to part 2!

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I LOVE HER in this role

Usually Yang Zi is a bit of a comedian.....and I like her in those roles. She lands on time and is quick on the back and forth banter. Her facial expressions are always on point, as well. But in this drama, she is mature, serious and handling real world (even currently the world over) issues. Spousal abuse. Women not getting paid what they should. Staying in a terrible marriage and the consequences of it. Lack of respect. Misogyny. Sexual harassment in the workplace. War of the classes. The consequences of war, and who it affects.......cause it 'ain't' the wealthy.

I love the story. I even like the love story and I'm not one that likes love stories. Her and her love interest have chemistry. It's slow and cerebral......how real people fall in love. It's sweet, but not overly so. It's mature love and that, to me, is believable.

The costumes are amazing. I love the colors, fabric choices and thought that went into the creation of each dress. I'm a seamstress, and costumes are an important part of historical fiction. I'm thoroughly turned off, if the costumes are satin-y or poorly constructed. The costumes designs of this drama are drool worthy, without the 'cat lady' bling effect. You know the one-- it looks as though someone vomited sequins and glitter all over the front of their dress! Eww.

The makeup too! They held back, and applied it sensibly. The women are gorgeous.....they don't need red lipstick and heavy eyeliner. Their natural beauty really shines through.

Set design is creative and colorful. Music is thoughtful as well. No cringy ballads from actors that cant sing. More traditional and lovely.

Story is wonderful as well.......with a few cheesy lines thrown in, that I've come to love. I grew up with old Chinese martial arts movies and it's the Chinese cheese that keeps me coming back- over the top acting, fight scenes, blood shooting from someone's chest, the blood vomit, the extra villain-y villains. All of it. Love it to bits!

This drama has just enough cheese that makes it nostalgic to me.

LM is adorable, masculine, intelligent, empathetic, vulnerable and grey. Not a complete good guy, but not a villain. Nor is he over-the-top pretty. All the things I want in an on screen love interest.

This is the best one I've watched in awhile. Can't wait for the next episode (just finished ep21).

If your looking for a 'real' love story (slowly paced), decent fight scenes, intelligent dialogue, great acting and anxiety driven plots.....this is a great drama to binge.

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found myself wanting to connect with the characters

"Flourished Peony" had the potential to be a captivating experience, but it ultimately fell short in several areas. The concept of exploring the beauty and intricacies of peonies in a narrative form is lovely, but the execution left much to be desired.

The storyline felt disjointed and lacked a clear direction, making it hard to stay engaged. While there were moments of beauty and insight, they were often overshadowed by pacing issues and a lack of character development. I found myself wanting to connect with the characters, but they felt flat and underdeveloped, which made it difficult to invest emotionally in their journeys.

Visually, the aesthetics were appealing, and the cinematography had its moments, but it wasn’t enough to save the overall experience. The dialogue often felt forced, and the plot twists were predictable, which took away from any potential suspense or intrigue.

In summary, "Flourished Peony" is a missed opportunity that could have blossomed into something beautiful. I’d rate it a 4/10—there are glimpses of potential, but it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression.

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