Speaking of which, y'all got any RR friends to lovers reccs? 🤔Arclei:
Flex X Cop : not exactly RR, but she's a strait-laced, by-the-books, team leader assertive cold cop and he's a cheerful, life of the party kinda guy and their dynamic is very (not quite) enemies to friends to (hopefully soon in season 2) lovers where she bosses him around and he obeys and also watches adoringly from the sides as she handles shit.
Are You Human Too?: she's a former boxer turned bodyguard and he's a chaebol heir in need of protection. their relationship is very cute and soft.
Bloody Romance: I don't think I ever finished this (I should,I was enjoying it) but basically she's his master he's supposed to be her slave/shadow. The drama is super intense and it's debatable to call them friends but I would still consider their relationship progression as friends to lovers.
Enjiya: she's a con artist, he's just a guy shit out of luck, she dominates the hell out of him. and they both grow over the course of the series No overt romance but I still shipped them together.
Gu Family Book: she's a badass sword-wielding martial artist and he's a happy-go-lucky demon baby cursed by his lineage, who grows up in hiding and desperately in need of survival training. This one's an oldie but a goodie.
Hannari Girori no Yoriko-san: cold woman, warm man
I'll see if I can remember any others, had to really wrack my brain to think of some lol, the two tropes don't often mix it seems.
I would be inetrested to watch this drama. Too bad it is not subbed. :/
This the summary for this drama I used google translate :
The drama tells the story of the death of the president of the Haicheng Chamber of Commerce, and his son Yin Jingshan returned from Nanyang to inherit the family business. Yin Jingshan grew up pretending to be a man since he was a child. By chance, he met his father's widow, Lin Zhu. Lin Zhu is actually a man, and he seems to have another purpose in accompanying Jingshan.
Arclei:
Stumbled upon a RR hidden gem a while back (Grabbed from the RR subreddit, I take no credit) in the form of a Chinese microdrama (as usual) but sadly... no english subs... 😫😢 I wanted to post it here so I 1. Don't forget and 2. y'all also suffer with me >:)
I tried watching it but I was so sad I couldn't understand anything that I put it on hold. It's also not on MDL and I couldn't find any info on it so I can't add it either 😞
Title:《竹影总缭乱》(No english translation)
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/ciDsXZeGxeU?si=LX_tugybPIvU2QQy [Raw]The only thing I managed to gather is that it seems to be a both are cross-dressers scenario so literally femboy x mascgirl 🥺 Just look at them, they're serving. I'm not too sure what era this is set in (my guess is late qing? or maybe republican) but I've not often seen this setting with RR
There is this drama, I am watching now as it airs. [Scent of New Dawn (2025)] and it is very well crafted. It is about a blind heir and his maid who are seeking revenge. It is a 10 mn Republican Era drama. It worths the watch in my views. But caution, the violence is graphic.
https://kisskh.at/762473-an-xiang-lai
The Maid is his Master for revenge and despite being blind ML is not weak. He is faking it. However, he submits himself to FL's plan and guidance as well ( because he is blind, she is his eyes). Evidently he is in love with her.
It clearly reminds me of [ Dong Lan Xue ]. I have not seen FL fighting like Shen Yan, but in [Scent of New Dawn (2025)], FL is really a strategist. 10/24 episodes out as for today.
the main leads meeting each other in the first episode if the story has no reason for itJojoOnDatBeat:
I can't recall a series that extends the meetings of the main characters beyond the first episode. In the dramas I've seen, the leads typically cross paths either at the beginning or towards the end of the episode. It's a missed opportunity because I totally agree that stretching out their first meeting could create more suspense and anticipation for the audience. I believe it would be interesting to explore their backstories beforehand.
Oooh this looks really interesting! Thank you for the recommendation I'll be sure to check it outJojoOnDatBeat:
"Sell Your Haunted House." was the first fantasy drama I watched that centered around ghosts. It helped that the female lead was Jang Na Ra. This was my first chance to see her in action. I must say, I think she’s amazing! I can’t help but be obsessed with her portrayal of Hong Ji Ah. She’s such a great character; even though she comes off cold and direct, she has a funny side, especially when it comes to food. I love her fashion sense, and her icy demeanor just adds to her allure. Every time she lets down her hair to perform an exorcism, I lose it... She’s definitely my type! LOL!
work has been crazy lately.JojoOnDatBeat:
There's no need to say sorry! I totally get it. I've also been a bit behind on dramas since late last month and into this month; life has a way of having its ups and downs. I really hope things settle down for you soon and that you can find some time to relax. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my long message. I often revisit my posts too, so if I happen to miss one from you, don’t worry—I’ll get back to it eventually!
I don't have a favorite per seJojoOnDatBeat:
Zhou Shen's "Embrace And Never Let Go" is absolutely my top pick from that album. I listened to the entire album, and I loved it!
the OST plays a lot in the drama and I mean A LOT.JojoOnDatBeat:
I personally have no issue with listening to a great song on repeat. In fact, it helps me learn the lyrics so I can sing along.
when it comes to text on screenJojoOnDatBeat:
I often have to pause the scenes to catch all the details I need to follow the story, especially in a mystery thriller. Sometimes, I get too lazy to pause and read, and the subtitles flash by so quickly that I miss important clues. By the time I reach the end, I’m left wondering where those clues came from. I end up having to go back and rewatch certain episodes, only to realize that the hints were there all along, and I just overlooked them.
I'll take anything I can get a ship out of even if there's no clear Romance tag).JojoOnDatBeat:
When it comes to dramas that lack a romance tag, I find it more enjoyable to explore the relationships between characters that aren't officially recognized. Imagining different scenarios where I wish the story had taken a romantic turn is a lot of fun, especially when the chemistry between characters is strong but romance is absent. This desire for scenes that never happened often drives me to search for fan-created scenarios on platforms like Tumblr. The fan theories and creative writing are incredibly entertaining!
I need my fictional male leads to be green flags pleaseJojoOnDatBeat:
Oh, how I absolutely relish the thrill of living my best life through the escapades of fictional characters! Watching their perfect partners swoop in like superheroes, showering them with love, snacks, and adoration is my guilty pleasure. The female lead is the ultimate prize, and her admirers are ready to fight dragons (or at least the occasional bad hair day) just to keep her happy. This is me totally cashing in on the perks. Bring on the drama and the popcorn!
Two very different dramas thematically speakingJojoOnDatBeat:
it’s like a delicious smoothie of my two favorite flavors: romance and boys love!
Ooh do you have any good BL recommendations?JojoOnDatBeat:
I've seen quite a few series from GMMTV, but lately, I've noticed that stories aimed at a younger audience aren't really resonating with me. I'm not sure if it's the humor or the fact that many of them are set in a school environment, but I've found myself dropping a lot of them halfway through. I think I'm at a stage in my life where I'm looking for more serious plotlines. I actually enjoy stories that spark a bit of controversy in the community, particularly those with darker narratives, like "Four Minutes." I believe that whether the reactions are positive or negative, the fact that people are talking about it means it has made an impact.
Many people might have different views on this, but I find that many of the series I enjoy feature quite a bit of sexual content. However, that's not the sole reason I tune in. I won't pretend that I don't appreciate it; I actually think that when it's done well, it adds to the experience.I'm also a huge fan of dark mafia romance novels, so to me, these scenes in the shows are just like another chapter in a book that I indulge in.
I apologize for the lengthy explanation before getting to your request for recommendations. Here are some of my favorites, starting with the series that truly gave me the ideal green flag I was looking for.
A Tale of Thousand Stars, Not Me , Futtara Doshaburi
I wish it was more accessible though, at least on mobile devices. Can't even reply to longer posts without turning on my laptopJojoOnDatBeat:
Sometimes it really frustrates me that when I'm using my phone, I can't access the option to shorten replies on posts. It makes tagging specific members in my responses a bit tricky. Plus, I've found that I can't click on hyperlinks, which drives me up the wall! Often, I just end up opening my web browser and logging in that way instead of using the app. Honestly, the only time I really use the mobile app is when I'm catching up on a series and need to update which episode I'm on.
P.S I apologize for the long message, but I enjoy sharing my thoughts with you. Thank you for taking the time to read it!
please do, some of us are shy and need someone to take charge in true spirit of this club's tropeJojoOnDatBeat:
Hahahha, alright, fair enough xD
I'll see if I can remember any others, had to really wrack my brain to think of some lol, the two tropes don't often mix it seems.JojoOnDatBeat:
Thank you for all the reccss!!! You really delivered!! <33 Will defs check 'em out (you even recced some that I was on the fence on whether or not they were RR so the confirmation is greatly appreciated ^^). I was thinking this too, when I tried to look back I found that rr in friends-to-lovers was kinda uncommon but the idea really intrigues me 🥺
I would be inetrested to watch this drama. Too bad it is not subbed. :/unbeliebubble:
Ugh, I know right?? I was so excited too :(
This the summary for this drama I used google translateunbeliebubble:
yooo, you found the synopsis!! :O I tried looking for any official info on this and found only an instagram post T_T
It's always so funny to me how google butchers Chinese translations xD
There is this drama, I am watching now as it airs. [Scent of New Dawn (2025)]unbeliebubble:
Omg yesssss, so glad to see this here cuz this was on my radar!! I wanted to start it as it was airing but I couldn't' find the eps on YT yet so I decided to wait to binge it instead xD The trailer is really giving 🥺
The Maid is his Master for revenge and despite being blind ML is not weak. He is faking it. However, he submits himself to FL's plan and guidance as well ( because he is blind, she is his eyes). Evidently he is in love with herunbeliebubble:
Sounds delightful~ I just hope we don't get another faking disability story 😭 Had enough of those to last me a lifetime.
It clearly reminds me of [ Dong Lan Xue ]unbeliebubble:
You absolutely nailed that-- I knew this was reminding me of something. Anything that's similar to Dong Lan Xue is a must-watch for me 🙏 And tbh, anything with Lin Ze Hui is on my radar 'cause bro really loves his rr-coded gigs xD
Yes I found the synopsis but I still don't know the name of the drama. I read that this is the very first project of the director.
[Scent of New Dawn (2025)] :
Sounds delightful~ I just hope we don't get another faking disability story 😭 Had enough of those to last me a lifetime.Arclei:
It doesn't seem to be the case,but I have this concern too. However, we watched how he sees and he can see but from a very close distance, with blurry surrounding. So logically. he should be really blind. Let's see.
You absolutely nailed that-- I knew this was reminding me of something. Anything that's similar to Dong Lan Xue is a must-watch for me 🙏 And tbh, anything with Lin Ze Hui is on my radar 'cause bro really loves his rr-coded gigs xDArclei:
The guy is really fine. This is the first drama I watch featuring him but I have the feeling I already watched one of his projects, I can't find which one.
To be honest, there is some serious sexual tension in this drama. Just because of the touching. Because FL always touches him ( to guide him) and sometimes even this, is better than any kissing scenes. You'll see.
Well I wish you can be patient and binge all of it. I admit, I am not that strong. I am too tempted to watch ^^
However, we watched how he sees and he can see but from a very close distance, with blurry surrounding. So logically. he should be really blind. Let's see.unbeliebubble:
Okkk, that does sound quite promising!
The guy is really fine. This is the first drama I watch featuring him but I have the feeling I already watched one of his projects, I can't find which one.unbeliebubble:
He really is fine- I watched him in 4 dramas already and I have most of his other projects on my PTW. I strongly recommend Secrets of the Shadow Sect because it's peak RR goodness... Zhang Gong Zhu Zai Shang but make it wuxia 🔥
Also Hong Dou’s Journey through Time was very fun and full of RR 🥺
To be honest, there is some serious sexual tension in this drama. Just because of the touching. Because FL always touches him ( to guide him) and sometimes even this, is better than any kissing scenes.unbeliebubble:
"to guide him" 😏😏😏 yeah, I bet. But jokes aside, you so right, subtle intimacy goes a loooooong way. And if it's FL initiating? AUGH, even better!
Well I wish you can be patient and binge all of it. I admit, I am not that strong. I am too tempted to watch ^^unbeliebubble:
That's so valid- Who knows, I might cave soon but I have a pretty good track record of being able to wait... wait so long in fact that I lose interest in watching it at all but that's besides the point 😅 Keep me posted on how it continues!
He really is fine- I watched him in 4 dramas already and I have most of his other projects on my PTW. I strongly recommend Secrets of the Shadow Sect because it's peak RR goodness... Zhang Gong Zhu Zai Shang but make it wuxia 🔥Arclei:
Thank you so much. I'll watch them. Even the GIF reminds me of Zhang Gong Zhu Zai Shang. <3
"to guide him" 😏😏😏 yeah, I bet. But jokes aside, you so right, subtle intimacy goes a loooooong way. And if it's FL initiating? AUGH, even better!Arclei:
Yes, I prefer it to fish kisses or worst : "Let's stick our faces" kind of kiss. Hopefully the kissing scenes should be good as the directing has been good so far.
I will definitly keep you posted. :)
The way this scene has me on a chokehold... the original clip I found was deleted but thankfully found the full version and I'd be lying if I said that it isn't taking all of my willpower not to start this extremely long drama on the spot just for this T_T (reviews and comments do not like it o-o)
https://youtu.be/44jMeVcGR48?si=uGmYSNJkUmTH15Te
Drama name: Revolutionary Sisters (2021)
EXCITED!Simi_Tutu:
Couldn't start on the weekend 'cause of life stuff but I started An Ancient Love Song today!! Ep 1 so far has been exceptionally good, I'm so hooked!! 🤩🤩🤩 Were you able to start?
I'm so happy to see Jin Chao & Qi Xia Xia make an appearance playing a couple yet again 🤭💗 https://i.imgur.com/9A0rvyK.jpeg
Ep 1: That transition where he travels from the future to the past?? ABSOLUTELY IMMACULATE? It was so effortless and seamless? So smooth? And the music that played? 10/10. And their first meeting, auuugh, that scene was so raw and lovely. Felt a lot like the beginning of a movie and I'm so here for it
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