This review may contain spoilers
A Refreshing, No-Nonsense Mini Cdrama Gem
I’ve watched up to Episode 20 (waiting for the rest to drop), and this is one of the best mini cdramas I’ve seen. Someone compared it to The Double, and after watching, I get it.
What I Loved:
The FL’s independence – She chooses to do everything on her own, and I respect that.
Lead chemistry – Their dynamic is lovely, with calm, wordless scenes that speak volumes. You just know they’re in love.
No unnecessary misunderstandings (from what I remember). A rare gem in a sea of cdramas filled with filler episodes and miscommunication tropes.
The costumes were great for the budget—no complaints there.
The oldest princess – Her backstory about being limited by her gender ("a woman’s role is to birth children") added depth, even if it doesn’t excuse her actions. Also, the actress is gorgeous!
What I Had Issues With:
The 2ML – I feel bad for him if he actually has feelings because the FL clearly doesn’t see him that way. His care for the child and offering her money showed his kindness, but I almost wish he’d been written as a female character instead.
The father & brother – I wish them worse. Did they die?(i don't remember) Probably not.
The FL’s decision in Ep 16 – Why did she go to the ML while he was tied up? The only reason he survived was plot armor. If he had died, it would’ve been entirely her fault. The princess seemed hurt, but… she caused it, so?
The white makeup – I couldn’t stop noticing how much paler the actors’ faces were compared to their necks. I know they’re supposed to be "pale," but the contrast was too obvious, especially on the oldest princess and FL. (It made me laugh, but still.)
Who was the princess referring to when she said the ML resembled "him"? Did we ever find out?(did i miss this?")
Final Thoughts:
The FL’s choice to leave the ML (because everyone acted like they were doing her a favor) made sense, but… five years? That’s a long time. I expected the ML to at least try to change her mind. Now, with only four episodes left, I guess she’ll finally reconsider?
The communication between the leads is chef’s kiss—no stupid misunderstandings, just two people who actually talk. What more could I ask for?
The FL’s acting was impressive, especially since this is her first main role. She’s only been in about four dramas so far, but she did a great job.
One of the rare cdramas I’d actually rewatch. Highly recommended!
After watching ep 21, I feel bad for the ML! His sister revealing he’s been depressed all these years? Oof. That final scene was so cute though—give me more of these soft moments!
Okay, I forgot about the series for a bit, but I'm back! Just watched episode 22.
What really stood out to me was the female lead's realization: the male lead doesn't need anyone else's connections or status to succeed in court. He can do it entirely on his own strength.
SPOILER FROM EP.22 (fl's Monologue):
"Did I make a wrong choice five years ago?
I thought he could marry someone of equal standing, someone who could help him gain a foothold in court.
But I never expected he would be so stubborn.
I should have known this is how he is.
He doesn't need to rely on anyone to break through and establish himself.
Perhaps the true coward here is me..."
That last line? Absolutely loved it. It's such a powerful moment of self-awareness for her.
Final Thoughts on the ending and overall:
Heading into the last episode, I appreciate that the core message seems to be: love isn't just about passion; it's built on trust, loyalty... (and so on).
While I loved it, I do understand the 7.4/10 rating a bit more now. The low budget showed, especially in the ML's hair in the final episode, it just looked unnatural and weird to me.
(what i mean is don't trust ratings)
Love the messages!
I genuinely wish both lead actors the best of luck and hope to see them in bigger projects! More than anything, I wish we could get more dramas like this with mature communication instead of annoying miscommunication plots but with bigger budgets!
What I Loved:
The FL’s independence – She chooses to do everything on her own, and I respect that.
Lead chemistry – Their dynamic is lovely, with calm, wordless scenes that speak volumes. You just know they’re in love.
No unnecessary misunderstandings (from what I remember). A rare gem in a sea of cdramas filled with filler episodes and miscommunication tropes.
The costumes were great for the budget—no complaints there.
The oldest princess – Her backstory about being limited by her gender ("a woman’s role is to birth children") added depth, even if it doesn’t excuse her actions. Also, the actress is gorgeous!
What I Had Issues With:
The 2ML – I feel bad for him if he actually has feelings because the FL clearly doesn’t see him that way. His care for the child and offering her money showed his kindness, but I almost wish he’d been written as a female character instead.
The father & brother – I wish them worse. Did they die?(i don't remember) Probably not.
The FL’s decision in Ep 16 – Why did she go to the ML while he was tied up? The only reason he survived was plot armor. If he had died, it would’ve been entirely her fault. The princess seemed hurt, but… she caused it, so?
The white makeup – I couldn’t stop noticing how much paler the actors’ faces were compared to their necks. I know they’re supposed to be "pale," but the contrast was too obvious, especially on the oldest princess and FL. (It made me laugh, but still.)
Who was the princess referring to when she said the ML resembled "him"? Did we ever find out?(did i miss this?")
Final Thoughts:
The FL’s choice to leave the ML (because everyone acted like they were doing her a favor) made sense, but… five years? That’s a long time. I expected the ML to at least try to change her mind. Now, with only four episodes left, I guess she’ll finally reconsider?
The communication between the leads is chef’s kiss—no stupid misunderstandings, just two people who actually talk. What more could I ask for?
The FL’s acting was impressive, especially since this is her first main role. She’s only been in about four dramas so far, but she did a great job.
One of the rare cdramas I’d actually rewatch. Highly recommended!
After watching ep 21, I feel bad for the ML! His sister revealing he’s been depressed all these years? Oof. That final scene was so cute though—give me more of these soft moments!
Okay, I forgot about the series for a bit, but I'm back! Just watched episode 22.
What really stood out to me was the female lead's realization: the male lead doesn't need anyone else's connections or status to succeed in court. He can do it entirely on his own strength.
SPOILER FROM EP.22 (fl's Monologue):
"Did I make a wrong choice five years ago?
I thought he could marry someone of equal standing, someone who could help him gain a foothold in court.
But I never expected he would be so stubborn.
I should have known this is how he is.
He doesn't need to rely on anyone to break through and establish himself.
Perhaps the true coward here is me..."
That last line? Absolutely loved it. It's such a powerful moment of self-awareness for her.
Final Thoughts on the ending and overall:
Heading into the last episode, I appreciate that the core message seems to be: love isn't just about passion; it's built on trust, loyalty... (and so on).
While I loved it, I do understand the 7.4/10 rating a bit more now. The low budget showed, especially in the ML's hair in the final episode, it just looked unnatural and weird to me.
(what i mean is don't trust ratings)
Love the messages!
I genuinely wish both lead actors the best of luck and hope to see them in bigger projects! More than anything, I wish we could get more dramas like this with mature communication instead of annoying miscommunication plots but with bigger budgets!
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