IvahDenise

This show was just what I needed right now. Just when I have been very disappointed with K-dramas of late, here comes C-dramas saving the day! This series has me on a chokehold. I have watched many costume period dramas, both Chinese and Korean, and this one has been one of the better ones, in my opinion. The cast, costumes, production, cinematography, setting, story, dialogues, action, every single thing is just top-tier. The only disappointment I have with this drama is that it was only 36-episodes long or short. Usually C-dramas run forever but this one was just too short for me. I even had to stop myself from watching it just to make it last longer!!!

I love the mix of drama, action, comedy, politics, history, and romance in this series. There is definitely something of everything. I was hooked from episode 1 and couldn't stop watching it. I do feel like they could have done more towards the end because it felt a little rushed and not enough time was spent on the ending but that is why I am complaining how short this 36-episode series is!

The ML and FL's chemistry is chef's kiss. They both are amazing in their roles. The supporting cast is perfect. The subplots are easy to follow and flow into the story well. I would kill for a Shao Wei. All the funny and sweet things he does for Man Man are just so endearing. I was just a rollercoaster of emotions while watching this show.

Honestly, if you have never watched a Chinese historical/period costume drama and want to try it out, this is a really good place to start. Well, this is the perfect one to start with! It is a masterpiece.