A Gentle Unraveling of Secrets
Coroner’s Diary stands out for the calm yet captivating way its story unfolds. Instead of relying on endless suffering or overdone drama, it takes a thoughtful and steady approach — one that draws you in with quiet intensity. Each episode peels back another layer of mystery with grace, balancing intrigue, intelligence, and heart.The female lead is the true anchor of the show — sharp, composed, and deeply humane. Her partnership with the male lead is built on mutual respect, trust, and intellect, making their teamwork both believable and heartwarming. The pacing is serene yet engaging, weaving together mystery, friendship, loyalty, and a touch of gentle romance.
"For a faithful partner, his every action represents a commitment.For an unfaithful partner, event the solemnest vows can't stop him from backtracking" (fl, epi 23)
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So strong in the beginning
There were a lot of things that I liked about it, and a lot of things I didn't. For one, love the main cast. The story is good. The editing fantastic. The one scene of Shen Wan dressing the beheaded bride and applying her makeup was just.... it made me sob. Absolutely beautiful. That's what hooked me in. I just wish that they focused more on the Prince Jin and Shen Yi case than the last 10 or so episodes. I know that they had to lead up to them having the power to investigate, but it resulted in the main crux of the show feeling rushed. It's also upsetting that the traitor Yan Han wasn't properly condemned. I know that it would "shake the foundation of the country" or whatever, but didn't they just give a speech about letting the law handle him? and then it just.... didn't? To me, the writing was really strong in the beginning and started losing steam halfway through, barely carrying the same momentum til the end. Overall though, was definitely a good watch and would recommend it. Just not top of my list of dramas this year!Was this review helpful to you?
Plot that won't make you gripe!
I like how the story is being unfold in a "calm manner". By that I mean, it doesn't make you gripe over and over because some plot were being told in a way that makes you gripe so much, like making the FL/ML suffer over and over and over to no end before they overcame the challenges.Now, this is the interesting part, where usually "calm" plot may not work very well, but this drama, specifically , is able to make it interesting, unfolding different layers of plot calmly with a nice touch. It's not contrive, but interestingly mystifying and surprising as well, blending in with great, simple romance, friendship and display of FL's extraordinary wits.
The way the FL solves cases with ML and also, the nature of FL being determined, smart, able and trustworthy strengthen the FL role along with the interesting way the plot sets in. It keeps me going without feeling overly contrive and believable.
If you like drama that is sort of a surprising mystery type, with romance, loyalty + friendship that is "calm' (won't have heart attack type, but keeps you relief, wanting more), then this is definitely for you.
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When Solving Crimes Meets Falling in Love
This drama is everything I’ve ever wanted in a series! It has it all — mystery, murder, thriller, political intrigue, romance, friendship, and family. The story revolves around one big case, but it’s executed so well. Each smaller case builds a strong foundation for the main conspiracy, making the plot feel tightly connected and engaging.I absolutely love the female lead! Shen Wan, played by Li Landi, is brilliant — she’s beautiful, composed, and incredibly smart, with everything under her control. Li Landi as the first female coroner brings such a breath of fresh air to the story! Her performance truly surprised me; she brought so much depth and charm to the role. And her chemistry with Ao Rui Peng? AMAZING. I’ve never found him this charming before! He plays a royal noble prince who would do anything for the woman he loves — even stand against anyone who dares to harm her. I love this trope so much! Their “love at first sight” story is handled beautifully, and honestly, they might be the healthiest couple in dramaland. They communicate openly, respect each other, and always give closure in their conversations.
The production team also deserves huge praise. The costume design, set decoration, and overall aesthetic are stunning. I especially adore the marriage scene — the navy wedding costume is such a bold and elegant choice! The color palette perfectly complements Ao Rui Peng’s charm. The cinematography is also top-notch; every frame feels visually captivating.
If I had to mention one weak spot, it would be the awkward scene where Yan Chi saves Qin Wan in the underground room. The sudden tornado (or whirlwind?) looked like cheap CGI and didn’t make much sense — it pulled me out of the moment a bit. But honestly, after that, their relationship develops so beautifully that I quickly forgot about it.
Overall, I love this show so much! If you’re into thriller romances with strong leads, rich storytelling, and gorgeous visuals, I highly recommend Coroner’s Diary!
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The Dead leave Clues
Coroner’s Diary** opens with a chilling injustice that sets the tone for the entire drama. Prince Jin dies by suicide in prison after being accused of raping and murdering Consort Jin, the Emperor's concubine, while intoxicated. Almost immediately, the case widens into a purge: Shen Yi, a respected mandarin and renowned coroner, is accused of helping to conceal the murder weapon. His family is slaughtered during their attempted escape, along with his close friend Qin Liang. Only Shen Yi’s daughter, Shen Wan, survives.Determined to uncover the truth and avenge her family, Shen Wan assumes the identity of Qin Wan, the supposedly deceased daughter of Qin Liang. The real Qin Wan had been sent to the Valley of Medicine as a child for treatment and died there, a fact that the rest of the Qin clan was yet to know. When the “returned” Qin Wan appears at the Qin family doorstep, she is met not with relief or affection but with suspicion, hostility, and an icy reception from her elders and cousins.
The Qin household soon proves to be anything but peaceful. A series of mysterious deaths unfolds after her arrival, exposing long-buried secrets within the family. Drawing on the forensic and medical skills she learned from her father, Qin Wan becomes deeply involved in the investigations. These early cases not only establish her sharp intellect and steady resolve but also lay the groundwork for the drama’s larger conspiracy.
Her healing abilities eventually bring her into contact with the Grand Princess’s household and Lord Yan Chi, the upright and principled heir to Prince Rui. Yan Chi has never believed the official account of Prince Jin’s death and remains determined to uncover the truth behind the case. He is both impressed and intrigued by Qin Wan’s medical expertise and exceptional coroner skills, and he wants to rope her into his investigations. However, beneath their growing trust lies a dangerous irony: Yan Chi is unaware that the woman he is beginning to admire is, in truth, a fugitive tied directly to the very case he seeks to reopen.
The road back to the capital and to Prince Jin’s case is long and politically fraught. Opportunities must be carefully waited for, alliances cautiously formed. Along the way, the duo encounters multiple murder cases and serial killings, each one cleverly woven into the broader narrative. Through these investigations, Qin Wan firmly establishes herself as a formidable coroner and physician, earning both respect and quiet fear from those around her.
The story is intricate and thoughtfully constructed. At the beginning, it is nearly impossible to predict why Prince Jin truly died, and the drama excels at planting misdirection. Revelations come gradually, with subtle clues surfacing only much later, allowing suspicion to shift organically as the plot deepens. When the truth finally emerges, it feels earned rather than forced.
Casting is another major strength. Ao Rui Peng, previously memorable in *The Blood of Youth*, brings a restrained dignity and moral clarity to Yan Chi, while Landy Li, best known for *The Starry Love*, delivers a nuanced performance that balances vulnerability, intelligence, and quiet resilience. Their chemistry develops naturally, grounded more in shared ideals and trust than in overt romantic tropes.
On a technical level, *Coroner’s Diary* scores highly across all the essential “hygiene factors”: a compelling storyline, strong performances, striking costumes, evocative theme songs, and polished cinematography supported by tasteful CGI. The production values elevate the drama without distracting from the narrative.
In short: highly recommended.
That said, no drama is without flaws. There are moments when intelligent characters make bafflingly poor decisions, most notably Prince Jin himself. One particular point deserves scrutiny. When a noble lady laments the two things she regrets in life, the first being not killing her sickly child, it is difficult to agree. The true regret should not have been sparing the infant’s life, but failing to keep him by her side, nurture him back to health, and ensure he received proper care and moral guidance. At its core, this is a question of basic respect for innocent life, a theme the drama should handle with more sensitivity.
Despite these nitpicks, *Coroner’s Diary* remains a gripping and rewarding watch, especially for viewers who enjoy investigative storytelling layered with political intrigue and moral complexity.
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Really good balance between solving mysteries and romance!
To be honest I was under the impression that this drama was not going to have much romance. However, the main leads were so cute throughout the drama! They get together quite early in the show and have a very stable and healthy relationship. Both parties are very loyal and trust and support each other to the max. I also enjoyed the side characters and their mini love lines as well. So if anyone is hesitating to watch this thinking there is no romance dont hesitate and just give it a try!Being a fan of crime and mystery, personally i was enjoying the different cases presented every few episodes. I feel like the writer did a good job in explaining the details without making it too confusing. The pacing of the drama was okay as well. At some parts it might be slow but it still keeps the suspense of the case. Some cases were truly brutal but really interesting. Qin family's case was the most shocking to me.
I adored the 2 grandmothers they were the number one supporters of the main leads and I loved that they had so much power. So our leads were well protected. There wasnt any major heartbreaking moments for our leads but within their families yes. So i enjoyed watching the acting done by Ao Rui Peng for the scene where he realises the truth about his Father.
Overall a really interesting drama and a great watch! Looking forward to more shows with the leads.
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Only one flaw: acting
This is a high quality plot line and plot delivery. I am so impressed and I know it will stay with me for a long time. The soundtracks are beautiful. Some scenes make me cry a ton of tears. I usually prioritize heavy romance but it is not the focus of this one at all. And I don't mind because all the other pros. I cant name them all and possibly others have praised many aspects already. I just want to admit one thing; chemistry is good but acting is off. I love the ml appearance he is god-like handsome but he is not there yet. Cant wait for him to work harder and reach higher acting level. The fl is ok but still - something is off. The other leads also have pretty off moments here and there. But you know it doesnt matter that much. Still solid 9/10. Highly recommended!Was this review helpful to you?
No Matter How Much The Layer Is, The Truth Will Always Unveil.
A revenge, romance, historical, sci-fi drama. Centered on a woman whose her entire family got murdered by a mysterious men behind those dirty political kingdom. She made a prejudice and try to get a revenge for her family, also justification against everyone who involved in this case. The long journey to gain her own power and build the trust among social community.While I watching this, I get familiar by this-kinda story. The premise was nearly similar like "Our Blooming Youth" (a south korean drama). If you love that drama, please try this as well. A whodunnit and whydunnit that well-executed. Please take a note, this drama is heavy on forensic-detective theme, not shamanism-detective like OBY.
Dare to say, the forensic cases were well-structured and detail. Since I love science, I'm beyond enjoying this autopsy-forensic things. Yet, I could said that many cases weren't relate to the main conflict. Some case was a stand-alone one not a red string to the main topic. If you expect this drama will have fast-problem-solving, then this drama is not for you, sluggish one, by the way. Too many unnecessary scenes.
I love the dynamic chemistry between Ao Ruipeng as Prince Yan Chi, and Li Landy as Qin Wan. The man that always protecting his woman, never doubt her for whatever she did, providing her while she took the revenge. Also, Qin Wan that keep straight to the point, and never do useless thing, very mature, independent, yet open widely to him for everything she did, an honesty over honesty.
The soundtrack, oh those soundtrack were eargasm, and addictive, I love those songs so much. Also, the BGM was enhance the story ambience. So gloomy, blue, and moved.
The cinematography was so-so, but, kudos to the prop team, the property was utterly detail and realistic. Especially the dead-body properties, oh so cool. I love they put so much effort on serving those totalistic prop. Despite, some CGI looks cheap and rough.
All in all, if you love whodunnit-whydunnit with heavy on revenge-romance, you might love this one. Both heroine were clever enough to have 1001 problem solving and science related.
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One of the Best Investigative Thrillers in a Long Time!!
It’s been a long time since I thoroughly enjoyed an investigative thriller. It is so good that you had wish for S2!The best part about this show is the female protagonist smashing age-old practices left and right. Shen Wan aka Qin Wan belongs to a noble family and is a brilliant coroner as well as medical practitioner. Yes, you heard it right, she is a coroner. And the fact that she takes pride in her occupation is what sets her apart from most coroners in that era. The show has a historical setting, so it is atypical for a woman to choose to be a coroner; women who do so are considered as ominous. And yet, Shen Wan destroys these old age believes and proves that women are adept as men. Joining on her revenge crusade is Prince Yan Li, the heir of Prince Rui and the Emperor’s nephew. Both get entangled investigating a common case and from there, there is no turning back. There is oodles of romance in this show but it takes a setback to the investigation. Both Shen Wan & Yan Li give preferential treatment to their cases than themselves.
Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2025/07/29/coroners-diary-series-review/#more-1998
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Romance, mystery, and macabre
What a journey I’ve been on as I watched this drama. Truly a brilliant show—acted, directed, written, and produced with excellence.Pros:
* The romance — Very rarely do you find a couple like this. For one, our actors were brilliant and their chemistry was fire! They were so at ease with a multitude of kisses. Secondly, they are committed to each other. Totally and completely. No messy breakup or miscommunication. When they decide to be together in episode 16, they never—and I mean NEVER—go back on their word to fight side by side for justice. If you love Song Mo and Dou Zhao in “Blossom”, you’ll love Yan Chi and Shen Wan in “The Coroner’s Diary”
* The leads — I already know I love Ao Rui Peng, but I was new to Landi Li. They killed it! Their acting was just plain phenomenal. More than that, these characters were written phenomenally. Shen Wan is a FL for the history books. Drama writers, take notes. She is strong, brilliant, determined, just, and loyal. Yan Chi? Drama writers, take notes again. He is brave, resilient, protective, kind, and fiercely in love. Class one green flag.
* The writing — Very rarely I have I been able to finish an ancient historical detective drama. This one, though? It was top tier. The cases are so intricate, and the overarching political plot ended up being absolutely mind blowing.
* Production — The costumes will blow you away. The makeup will too. The OST? Excellent. The sets? Excellent. The action scenes? Excellent.
Cons:
* Gore galore — I love American cop shows so I didn’t expect to be a wuss when I watched this. I was not prepared for the level of gore that would accompany some of these murders. There were five murders in particular where I could barely handle looking at the body. There’s a serial killer arc in the second half that left me almost nauseous with how brutal the murders were. Violence, in general, is perhaps abnormally abundant for a romance drama, especially in the last half.
* Pacing issues — Typically in the Chinese mystery shows, a case will be wrapped up in two to three episodes. This one averages about five episodes per case, with every case having more than one murder involved. This lowkey annoyed me because I often was more than ready to move to the next case, but they’d just kill off someone else and it would drag out another episode.
* This last one is just an opinion thing so I won’t even call it a full con, but I think we deserved to flesh out our ML’s past much more. We got way more screen time of FL than the ML, which is fine, but the ML’s backstory ends up being integral to the main plot and so the fact that we barely see any of it kinda felt unfinished to me.
Overall, I get the hype for this show. “The Coroner’s Diary” is one of the best Chinese dramas I’ve watched this year. Definitely recommend.
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Easy watch! Stay for the story telling, twists and great cast to portray the characters!
Everything from start to finish will have you seated and rooting for all the characters. However, at times it feels too flawless it seemed unbelievable. The deduction skills of both leads are sometimes a bit too much but that's what makes the high rating in this drama- it gives the satisfaction that gets you hooked. Li Landi is again superb! I always love how she is able to convey her emotions really a topnotch when it comes to evoking the right emotions easy to relate as a viewer- you almost sympathize with her. Saw her in Love of Nirvana loved her character there and same goes with this one, it seemed these kind of roles suits her a lot. What a great actress! The leads have "okay" chemistry-not explosive but it's there. Sometimes I can't help it but I also see a chemistry with the male lead and the second female lead- and voila! -they actually have a drama that's on-going filming- My Queen My Rules! LOL The twists are also good, the writing and how the story unfolded is easy to stay tune with. It would have been better they indulged to make into 40 episodes just to expound more on the idea of the sect cause it felt like the build up was there and then was rushed a bit towards the end. But Yang Shize was also worth a mention short appearance but portrayed it well as a conflicted man turned villain. But nevertheless, it was an easy watch!Was this review helpful to you?
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Great plot filled with twists
I think it's a great drama, I binged this on my PA day and was really interested in the romance. I prefer slow burn, but they got together lowk kinda fast lmao. The cases and cororner part were really good and the ending was not what I expected but it made sense. Landy's acting is great but Ruipeng could kinds improve bc sometimes it kinda cringe. I like it to be realistic, not overdramatic. The side couples were also really cute.Was this review helpful to you?
