arpar

Great chemistry and fast paced

Everyone has different opinions, and that's why cdramas are so great because there's something for everyone.
This drama really suits what I like. The best point for me of this drama is the chemistry between the ML, FL and the FL's brother.
They make a great trio. You can immediately sense the chemistry between the ML and the FL. They look very natural and comfortable with each other. You can sense that the ML liked the FL at first sight, and that the FL only has eyes for the ML regardless of how many men chase her.
For me the flashbacks of the FL and ML's previous romance make me look forward to them getting back together even more. They both are very good at acting with their eyes, when they look at each other you can see their love and care for each other.
The FL's brother adds a nice comedic element to the main duo, and his character development is something you don't see much in similar dramas.

I've seen people say the ML's character is the same as in the rise of Ning (another drama which I liked a lot). Yes they do have similarities.
They are both scheming, have some sort of hidden agenda and control an influential group. However, in rise of Ning, his character is serious like 90% of the time, where as, while he is serious here, there are also a lot more moments where he plays a more comedic or relaxed role. I think his role in this drama is more similar to his role in 'are you the one.' There a more moments where he acts romantic, comedic or even foolish, that brings a lighter feel in my opinion.

One thing I think that sets this drama apart a little is the fast paced nature of the plot. Especially at the beginning, there are almost mini arcs regarding the FL's sisters that in another drama might take 5 or more episodes to see the problem or drama resolved. However in this drama, problems with the FL's sisters and problems the FL faces early on are resolved within 2 episodes normally. I like this fast paced nature as it keeps the plot engaging, but it can feel a little rushed and confusing at time due to the different characters being introduced in a short amount of time.

I also really like how for the most part any misunderstandings or secrets are cleared up explained quite fast, their communication and honesty is so refreshing (besides the FL's big secret, but that's understandable).

As for the main antagonist, I do think their overall 'reason' for hating the FL and her family is not really convincing, but they do sell it well and make it believable. I think this is due to the acting of the main antagonist. She does a great job of portraying her craziness but also calmness. As the main plot and main villains are revealed, I think the story continues to become more engaging.

I think overall, this drama blends romance, comedy and a bit of seriousness well. I really enjoyed the ML and FL's relationship and their trio with the FL's brother. To me, they really made this show. The villains are engaging and it's interesting to find out the reason they hate the FL, even though in the end some may consider her reason silly. The main villa does a good job of selling it. If you are a fan of the FL or the ML, you will definitely enjoy their romance and their chemistry, and will thus enjoy this drama, just like I did.

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Nice mix of romance and mystery

I really enjoyed this drama, even though this drama has some angst, I think the romance was really well done, and the mix of mystery added an extra layer that kept me engaged. Watch out for some spoilers.

Romance: It's not a really angsty romance, even though there was a breakup or technically a break as they weren't official yet midway though, thus there was some angst, you always knew they would eventually make up. You know from the beginning no one else has a chance. And once they are together from 20 onwards, they are as solid as a rock. Some might say their romance is boring, but I enjoy romances that are peaceful and supportive, and that's exactly what they had. I really enjoyed their romance and think it was maturely done, with lots of support and cute/hot moments when they became official. Some say the FL has communication problems at the beginning, and yes I do agree, but I also understand why it was hard for her. Her experiences were definitely traumatic and hard for her to communicate with the ML. But once they were together, there communicated well and never kept secrets. If you enjoy supportive and mature romance I think this is the one for you, just wait till they are together, its a great relationship.

Mystery: The mystery added an extra element that keeps you guessing almost the whole way through. I think this balanced the peaceful romance from ep 20 onwards, as the focuses shifted more to the mystery. Some reviews said they did not see a lot of police work done at the beginning. That is true, but it takes maybe around 8-10 episodes for the mystery to really begin and that's when the police work starts coming into focus. In the end the "bad guy" was a predictable but the many layers of the mystery did keep it engaging. Finding out who's involved, what really happened and the motives, is what keeps this mystery engaging. But it does take time to really kick in so give it some time.

Overall, I really liked this drama and think it was a good blend of romance and mystery. It may not be for everyone and the start can be a bit slow, but if you stick with it I think it's quite engaging and the romance is endearing. It's not action packed or hot and sexy (although there are some hot scenes, one in particular) but if you're looking for a nice mix of romance and mystery, this is an enjoyable watch.

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Perfect blend of mystery, crime and romance

To me Coroner's diary is the perfect blend of mystery, crime and romance.
There are about 7 main cases and an overarching big case with a main villain. I won't lie, the cases may be a bit predictable, not all but some of them. Yet they are all entertaining and intriguing, and will keep you anticipating and looking forward to what comes next. I read the novel myself and knew what to expect, so for people who haven't read the novel, the case and the show, will be even more entertaining as a whole.

One thing I like about this show is it continually keeps you guessing until the end, seasoned cdrama watchers may be able to guess the big bad, but its never too obvious and there is always uncertainty about who is truly evil, right until the end.

One other thing that sets this drama apart, is that it avoids cliches. There is no big misunderstandings, or break ups or noble idiocy that makes your blood boil. The main CP, second cp and third cp are all cute and endearing in their own way. They provide a nice warm break from all the murder cases and scheming. The drama has a fast pace, with not much filler. constantly moving forward.

However, the star of the show is the FL and ML.
The FL is not a weak, damsel in distress. She's smart, tough and independent. She is really unique, she does not care about what others think, does not care about gossip and can take care of herself. She depends on herself and her own skills to solve cases and clear her family name, breaking historical norms.
The ML is the perfect support for the FL. He is supportive, not controlling, a walking green flag. He trusts the FL's capabilities and understands how smart the FL is. The relationship between the ML and FL is as close to a perfect cdrama relationship as possible. All cliches are avoided which I love. No misunderstandings, no break ups, no noble idiocy, no keeping each other guessing or waiting, nothing like that. They communicate openly about what they both want and their goals and future together. They get together relatively early, no messing around. And once they are together, they are so supportive and trusting of each other. They communicate so well, with absolutely no misunderstands or break ups. Not even a single argument. Once they're official, they are fully committed to each other and nothing gets in their way, supporting each other till the end. Both of them are walking green flags, and a damn near prefect cdrama romance. They work together in perfect harmony as they investigate murder cases, while also going on secret dates and secretly flirting with each other.

The second and third CP's provide comic relief and a nice break from the cases and scheming. They are both very cute, but quite normal and expected.
Overall, this drama stays away from normal cdrama cliches. It has an intriguing overarching plot, interesting and thrilling cases, has a nice fast pace, no wasted time at all and a great CP.

For me, and this is just my opinion, it has everything you need in a mystery/romance historical cdrama. It doesn't try to be too clever, doesn't try to include unnecessary angst, it knows what it is and executes it very well.

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