This review may contain spoilers
Compelling crime and investigative cases tainted by the writer's assassination of the ML's character
"Even a solid dyke can collapse from a single ant hole." - Qin Yi
I was initially planning to start this review by expressing my frustration with the show. However, I realized I have so much to say that it would become quite lengthy, and I might lose focus on the story's strengths. So, let me start my commentary by highlighting the positive aspects of the story first and save my complaints and negative feedback for later.
Looking back, the story was truly impressive—provided we ignore Qi Menglin's (ML) existence! The plot progression was smooth, the character dynamics were entertaining, and the dark symbolism was both compelling and well-executed. While the thematic atmosphere initially feels somber due to the exploitation of women, a hidden vibrance emerges through the main characters. Their compassionate hearts serve as a powerful counterpoint, highlighting the contrast between the drama’s unsettling, gritty tone and the protagonists' unwavering sense of justice, benevolence, and altruism.
The show's most standout feature is undoubtedly its thematic depth. Right from the start, the story establishes a dark, eerie, and mysterious atmosphere that feels incredibly promising, building significant anticipation for the plot's progression. Their consistency in delivering such scenes is what made me captivated with the cases. To the point where I found myself fully immersed in the each investigative plot of the story. While the cases themselves are interesting, the main draw is the focus on the struggles women face. I don't enjoy the depiction of suffering for its own sake; instead, I am interested in the quality of the representation. Plenty of series use women as a mere plot device; so, finding one that utilizes this trope not just for the sake of men's debauchery, but to make a point and encourage the pursuit of justice, felt hopeful and heartwarming. I’m glad this is a female-centric drama that shows genuine care and empathy, rather than a show intended solely to showcase the FLs (Luo Shu) wit and prowess.
The build-up to the main plot, which centers on the tragedy and demise of Luo Shu's family was truly attention-grabbing. However, the most intriguing and riveting aspect of the show was not her story, but Qin Yi, the main antagonist. He was a scene-stealer who took over the show the moment the focus shifted to him. He’s the perfect antagonist: obsessive, mentally deranged, and a legit psychopath. I hated him for how merciless and mentally corrupted he was, yet I loved him for those exact same reasons. I admire how rigidly committed he remained to his diabolical goals and beliefs. He carried the show to the finish line like no one else—a true master schemer.
The writers really outdid themselves with how spectacularly vicious and cunningly calculative he is. The only failure in his characterization was his conclusion—a death that was hasty, abrupt, and deeply underwhelming. Honestly, I almost lost hope and accepted defeat during the climax because his schemes were so brilliant. The only reason I held onto hope for a better ending was the knowledge that story tropes rarely allow an antagonist to prevail.
The ending is my 2nd disappointment with this drama. It was wrapped up in a haste and off-screened many potentially climactic scenes. Although the result was considerably satisfying, I feel like they could have done better! It's as if they suddenly decided to 'call it a wrap' and threw away their intricately planned ending in favor of poor execution. I'm not sure if it was due to episode limitations, licensing, or something else, but it felt truly disconcerting. It’s absurd that they gave Qin Yi so much screen time for his schemes, yet were unable to spare a couple of episodes to end the drama properly.
The perfect pairing we were robbed of: Luo Shu and Han Muzhi. Even now, I feel dissatisfied with the choice of the male lead. Han Muzhi was perfect ML material, so I was truly shocked when the show gradually started to shift toward Qi Menglin. We could have had the perfect couple if only the writers hadn't felt unnecessarily 'innovative' and rebellious that day. Truly, our TOTGA!
I also have to mention that I totally look up to Luo Shu for her maturity and decisiveness. Her confrontation scene with Han Muzhi—to conclude their intimate relationship and gain proper closure—is my favorite scene of all. I aspire to have her understanding and courage; her moral fiber feels beyond my mortal intelligence. I could never be like her.
Finally, I’m moving on to the most infuriating section of my review. I’m glad to have finally reached the point where I can unleash it. God knows how much I held back my sarcasm and complaints in the sections above. Believe it or not, my draft grew excessively long because I have 9 impromptu, on-the-spot notes—all in paragraph form—solely dedicated to my disappointment and negative reactions toward Qi Menglin. Shall we start?
I didn't loathe him immediately. It was a gradual process—an accumulated annoyance that turned to hate the more he appeared on screen. He is that specific character who never ceases to irritate me, from his introduction until the very end. He constantly behaves like a foolish, immature noble; he is the walking definition of "Ignorance is bliss."
Introduced as an annoying, ignorant foil, he spoils the crime scene whenever he appears. God knows how many times his giddy, foolish personality has ruined a chance to obtain a clue. Even when he contributes, it's through sheer luck; clues are only discovered after he performs some ridiculous gag. Talk about plot convenience! It is incredibly frustrating how the scenes always divert to his slapstick antics just when we should be focusing on serious issues. He feels like an extra with an overly prominent background, so the writers keep inserting him even when he’s a nuisance to the story. He is a total distraction. Someone you couldn’t bring on an espionage mission as he sticks out like a sore thumb. He reveals himself no matter what—especially in moments when everyone else needs to stay still, remain quiet, and avoid making a mess.
For the record, there was a period when he seemingly matured and became extra cautious and rational in comparison to Luo Shu. Those scenes truly made me warm up to him and allowed me to reconsider and accept him as the legitimate male lead; because finally, it was the character development arc I had been waiting for. However, those moments were buried when the story reached its climax. My irritation and loathing toward him were replaced by contemptuous mockery by episode 32, when he landed in jail yet again. He kept being taken advantage of and became the sole reason for his family's demise. His overall decisions and actions left me disappointed and speechless; I am unable to process how he suddenly reverted to the absolute liability he initially was. I was dumbfounded and—sure as hell—mad, not only at him but also at the writers. They played with his character like a toy they could conveniently mold into whatever ridiculous shape they needed. It was total character assassination.
He has truly ruined this show for me. I never expected it to turn out like this toward the end. Any 'change of heart' I felt has gone down the drain, gradually turning into utter disappointment and anger as the story reaches its conclusion. He never truly considers the consequences of his actions, despite the warnings and the knowledge that they are in a dire situation, being actively schemed against. I don't even know how to like him starting from that point. All I can say is that it was this drama's misfortune to have such an ignorant and rebellious kid as its ML. He is beyond saving; I’ve lost all hope for him. By the end, he’s nothing but a total liability.
This is the 2nd drama I’ve seen starring Zhai Zhilu, and it’s also his second role playing a spoiled, childish, and immature young master. I’m not sure why he keeps accepting roles like this. Was he also a victim of those infamous on-site script changes? /Sighs/
P.S. I totally applaud Luo Shu for her composure and for not lashing out at Qi Menglin, the childish heir who is constantly on her tail. Her patience clearly knows no bounds; I can’t imagine how exhausting it is to effectively babysit an annoying, childish man.
Story - 9.0, I would have rated it a 9.5 or 10 based solely on the investigation scenes. However, the disappointment regarding Qi Menglin must be taken into account. Furthermore, the conclusion for Qin Yi felt rushed, and the ending was wrapped up as if the production was racing against a deadline.
Acting/Cast - 9.5, This was an almost perfect ensemble, held back only by the writing of Zhai Zilu’s character. I know I shouldn’t blame him, but my brain now automatically brands him as childish and annoying. I’m afraid I might skip his future projects—I’m absolutely traumatized.
Music - 10, As a ballad lover, the pensive and longing sound of the OSTs are my ultimate vibe in this drama! 'Heavy Snow' (大雪) is one of my favorites.
Rewatch Value - 6.0, I enjoyed all the crime and investigation plots, and I thoroughly appreciate the representation of women's plight. However, I can never watch Qi Menglin again. I don't think I can stomach him a second time.
Overall - 9.0, The crime scenes are compelling and truly enjoyable. I would have rated this higher had the writers remained consistent with Qi Menglin’s character development. It feels strange to settle on an 8.5 when it could have easily earned a 9.5 or 10, but the rushed—though well-delivered—ending makes that 8.5 feel more accurate.
IF you find my review helpful please let me know.
I was initially planning to start this review by expressing my frustration with the show. However, I realized I have so much to say that it would become quite lengthy, and I might lose focus on the story's strengths. So, let me start my commentary by highlighting the positive aspects of the story first and save my complaints and negative feedback for later.
Looking back, the story was truly impressive—provided we ignore Qi Menglin's (ML) existence! The plot progression was smooth, the character dynamics were entertaining, and the dark symbolism was both compelling and well-executed. While the thematic atmosphere initially feels somber due to the exploitation of women, a hidden vibrance emerges through the main characters. Their compassionate hearts serve as a powerful counterpoint, highlighting the contrast between the drama’s unsettling, gritty tone and the protagonists' unwavering sense of justice, benevolence, and altruism.
The show's most standout feature is undoubtedly its thematic depth. Right from the start, the story establishes a dark, eerie, and mysterious atmosphere that feels incredibly promising, building significant anticipation for the plot's progression. Their consistency in delivering such scenes is what made me captivated with the cases. To the point where I found myself fully immersed in the each investigative plot of the story. While the cases themselves are interesting, the main draw is the focus on the struggles women face. I don't enjoy the depiction of suffering for its own sake; instead, I am interested in the quality of the representation. Plenty of series use women as a mere plot device; so, finding one that utilizes this trope not just for the sake of men's debauchery, but to make a point and encourage the pursuit of justice, felt hopeful and heartwarming. I’m glad this is a female-centric drama that shows genuine care and empathy, rather than a show intended solely to showcase the FLs (Luo Shu) wit and prowess.
The build-up to the main plot, which centers on the tragedy and demise of Luo Shu's family was truly attention-grabbing. However, the most intriguing and riveting aspect of the show was not her story, but Qin Yi, the main antagonist. He was a scene-stealer who took over the show the moment the focus shifted to him. He’s the perfect antagonist: obsessive, mentally deranged, and a legit psychopath. I hated him for how merciless and mentally corrupted he was, yet I loved him for those exact same reasons. I admire how rigidly committed he remained to his diabolical goals and beliefs. He carried the show to the finish line like no one else—a true master schemer.
The writers really outdid themselves with how spectacularly vicious and cunningly calculative he is. The only failure in his characterization was his conclusion—a death that was hasty, abrupt, and deeply underwhelming. Honestly, I almost lost hope and accepted defeat during the climax because his schemes were so brilliant. The only reason I held onto hope for a better ending was the knowledge that story tropes rarely allow an antagonist to prevail.
The ending is my 2nd disappointment with this drama. It was wrapped up in a haste and off-screened many potentially climactic scenes. Although the result was considerably satisfying, I feel like they could have done better! It's as if they suddenly decided to 'call it a wrap' and threw away their intricately planned ending in favor of poor execution. I'm not sure if it was due to episode limitations, licensing, or something else, but it felt truly disconcerting. It’s absurd that they gave Qin Yi so much screen time for his schemes, yet were unable to spare a couple of episodes to end the drama properly.
The perfect pairing we were robbed of: Luo Shu and Han Muzhi. Even now, I feel dissatisfied with the choice of the male lead. Han Muzhi was perfect ML material, so I was truly shocked when the show gradually started to shift toward Qi Menglin. We could have had the perfect couple if only the writers hadn't felt unnecessarily 'innovative' and rebellious that day. Truly, our TOTGA!
I also have to mention that I totally look up to Luo Shu for her maturity and decisiveness. Her confrontation scene with Han Muzhi—to conclude their intimate relationship and gain proper closure—is my favorite scene of all. I aspire to have her understanding and courage; her moral fiber feels beyond my mortal intelligence. I could never be like her.
Finally, I’m moving on to the most infuriating section of my review. I’m glad to have finally reached the point where I can unleash it. God knows how much I held back my sarcasm and complaints in the sections above. Believe it or not, my draft grew excessively long because I have 9 impromptu, on-the-spot notes—all in paragraph form—solely dedicated to my disappointment and negative reactions toward Qi Menglin. Shall we start?
I didn't loathe him immediately. It was a gradual process—an accumulated annoyance that turned to hate the more he appeared on screen. He is that specific character who never ceases to irritate me, from his introduction until the very end. He constantly behaves like a foolish, immature noble; he is the walking definition of "Ignorance is bliss."
Introduced as an annoying, ignorant foil, he spoils the crime scene whenever he appears. God knows how many times his giddy, foolish personality has ruined a chance to obtain a clue. Even when he contributes, it's through sheer luck; clues are only discovered after he performs some ridiculous gag. Talk about plot convenience! It is incredibly frustrating how the scenes always divert to his slapstick antics just when we should be focusing on serious issues. He feels like an extra with an overly prominent background, so the writers keep inserting him even when he’s a nuisance to the story. He is a total distraction. Someone you couldn’t bring on an espionage mission as he sticks out like a sore thumb. He reveals himself no matter what—especially in moments when everyone else needs to stay still, remain quiet, and avoid making a mess.
For the record, there was a period when he seemingly matured and became extra cautious and rational in comparison to Luo Shu. Those scenes truly made me warm up to him and allowed me to reconsider and accept him as the legitimate male lead; because finally, it was the character development arc I had been waiting for. However, those moments were buried when the story reached its climax. My irritation and loathing toward him were replaced by contemptuous mockery by episode 32, when he landed in jail yet again. He kept being taken advantage of and became the sole reason for his family's demise. His overall decisions and actions left me disappointed and speechless; I am unable to process how he suddenly reverted to the absolute liability he initially was. I was dumbfounded and—sure as hell—mad, not only at him but also at the writers. They played with his character like a toy they could conveniently mold into whatever ridiculous shape they needed. It was total character assassination.
He has truly ruined this show for me. I never expected it to turn out like this toward the end. Any 'change of heart' I felt has gone down the drain, gradually turning into utter disappointment and anger as the story reaches its conclusion. He never truly considers the consequences of his actions, despite the warnings and the knowledge that they are in a dire situation, being actively schemed against. I don't even know how to like him starting from that point. All I can say is that it was this drama's misfortune to have such an ignorant and rebellious kid as its ML. He is beyond saving; I’ve lost all hope for him. By the end, he’s nothing but a total liability.
This is the 2nd drama I’ve seen starring Zhai Zhilu, and it’s also his second role playing a spoiled, childish, and immature young master. I’m not sure why he keeps accepting roles like this. Was he also a victim of those infamous on-site script changes? /Sighs/
P.S. I totally applaud Luo Shu for her composure and for not lashing out at Qi Menglin, the childish heir who is constantly on her tail. Her patience clearly knows no bounds; I can’t imagine how exhausting it is to effectively babysit an annoying, childish man.
Story - 9.0, I would have rated it a 9.5 or 10 based solely on the investigation scenes. However, the disappointment regarding Qi Menglin must be taken into account. Furthermore, the conclusion for Qin Yi felt rushed, and the ending was wrapped up as if the production was racing against a deadline.
Acting/Cast - 9.5, This was an almost perfect ensemble, held back only by the writing of Zhai Zilu’s character. I know I shouldn’t blame him, but my brain now automatically brands him as childish and annoying. I’m afraid I might skip his future projects—I’m absolutely traumatized.
Music - 10, As a ballad lover, the pensive and longing sound of the OSTs are my ultimate vibe in this drama! 'Heavy Snow' (大雪) is one of my favorites.
Rewatch Value - 6.0, I enjoyed all the crime and investigation plots, and I thoroughly appreciate the representation of women's plight. However, I can never watch Qi Menglin again. I don't think I can stomach him a second time.
Overall - 9.0, The crime scenes are compelling and truly enjoyable. I would have rated this higher had the writers remained consistent with Qi Menglin’s character development. It feels strange to settle on an 8.5 when it could have easily earned a 9.5 or 10, but the rushed—though well-delivered—ending makes that 8.5 feel more accurate.
IF you find my review helpful please let me know.
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