aluxia

Thank you for sharing! I've always wondered how Ruyi's character differed from the drama. I heard that her character in the book was a little more cunning and cold. Anyway, thanks!

My all time favorite palace intrigue drama up to date. It saddens me that this one was overshadowed by Story of Yanxi Palace as they were released at around the same time. However, I do appreciate that the two dramas offered two different perspectives despite having different tones and storyline. Made me realize that anyone can be a villain or a hero depending on whose eyes you're looking through. I also did watch its predecessor Empresses in the Palace, but I definitely enjoyed this one more! I re-visit this one quite often. I think I've already watched it about 5-6 times at this point. With every visit, I began to understand things differently and felt differently about different characters. I grew more empathetic with every re-visits. I even began to empathize with the so-called villains too. For me, there is definitely re-watch value for this drama. I highly recommend this one for a more mature telling of the palace intrigue and take on romance.

I watched this quite a while back, but this one left its mark on me. I come back and re-visit this one from time to time but very rarely as my heart can't handle the weight of this drama. Angsty and heartbreaking like no other. But, if you'll let it, it'll leave its mark on you too. This drama is such a bittersweet and undervalued gem. Please give it a try if you're up for something heavier and more serious. Every character was beautifully played out and every actor carried their roles so superbly. I highly recommend this drama for those who's soul can hold the gloom this drama casts. It's not for the weak or the shallow.

Also, make sure to watch the special. It'll tie everything up nicely together and make more sense than how the original 60 ended off with.

Do not let the low ratings and bad reviews deter you from this gem. They could have been expecting for something happier and lighter and more romantic and whatever else was common of these storylines from back in 2020 like I was at the time I initially watched this drama. However, as I allowed myself to be more opened to the unfolding of the story and to expand beyond the romance element I was hoping for, this drama began to make its mark in my heart.

Anyway, enjoy this drama if you decide to embark on a journey with it. I hope you too will also come to cherish this drama as well.