emberzmars

Longtime crush rewarded with heavy kisses once they got together

I watched this drama at the recommendation of reddit member who says that this drama has FL chasing ML first. I have mixed feelings about this drama.but overall it was a good watch.

What I liked:
1. Romance - This drama is heavy on kisses - good quantity & quality. FL & ML went all out with passion & desire felt in their makeout session. There were also sweet gestures done by both FL & ML.
2. Styling - I really liked clothes worn by FL who was 22 years old because they reflected her youthfulness.
3. Acting - This is first time watching drama of both Li Jia Chen & Li Ya Ya. They were good in their roles as they seemed very comfortable with the close contact.

What I disliked:
1. Length - This drama is almost 3 hours long that I felt bored halfway through so I doubled the speed. I wish the pre-confession phase was shortened and antagonists' screentime were reduced.
2. Antagonists - There were 2 of them and both got a lot of screentime. One should be jailed for his crime.
3. FL's characterisation - In general, I am not a fan of childlike FL. She is one of them but her act is tolerable because it's just her playful nature.

Favourite scene
Their first intimate encounter

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ML who never gave up on true love

This was one of the earliest vertical dramas I watched when I first discovered them back in December 2024. I found this drama through a playlist of Han Jia Hui's dramas. It took me awhile to track info for this drama to be submitted as New Title. Delighted this MDL page is live because this drama is highly recommended.

What I liked:
1. Pregnancy - In most vertical dramas, unplanned pregnancy happens after a one-night stand, be it sober or intoxicated. It's different in this drama - the child was actually a product of love.
2. ML characterisation - I loved that ML never gave up in his search to find his true love even after many years of no contact. He was smart and had good instincts.
3. FL characterisation - It's wonderful that FL fight back against office bully. She is without flaw but I understand her reason for leaving ML after his surgery.
4. Romance - I loved the love story between ML and FL. There was love, passion and desire from both sides.
5. Styling - I liked the clothes worn by FL and her daughter. Beautiful and sensible clothes for leisure and for work.
6. Supporting character - FL's daughter is so adorable. She does resemble Li Zhuo Yao. FL's best friend is a great friend.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Green tea just obsessed at becoming Mrs Ji because of status. She's vicious for using FL's daughter to threat FL.
2. Secrets - I wish FL had just told ML about her identity and their kid sooner. The lack of honest communication and red herring made FL an easy target for the green tea.

Favourite scene
When ML saved FL's daughter from being abducted

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The couple's playful banters were fun to watch

I am going to write a post on Zhang Chu Xuan's dramas so I watched this drama as part of my homework. I am always curious about Yao Guan Yu even though I haven't found his drama enjoyable enough for me to watch repeatedly. Overall I liked this drama but won't watch it on repeat.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Their banters were so entertaining and that's their love language. Yao Guan Hu excels in smirking once more. There were some nice kisses though I wish we had gotten steamy scenes and more time dedicated to their romance.
2. Empowerment - Zhang Chu Xuan has taken many women empowerment roles and I like it a lot even though in reality these milestones did not happen back in early 20th century. In this drama, she succeeded in getting a divorce and being appointed as a strategist in the army.
3. Acting - Solid acting by Zhang Chu Xuan, Yao Guan Yu, SFL & SML.
4. Antagonist's first arc - I actually liked SFL's character arc in the first act. She was a formidable nemesis to FL and I think the points about arranged marriage vs love match were valid.
5. Supporting characters - I liked ML's second in command & FL's maid. Even FL's mother was adorable despite short screentime.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists' second & third act - Ok writer went crazy (pun intended) with SFL's character arc once the 4 leads were in military. I liked SML when he realised that SFL had gone overboard. He was able to distinguish right and wrong. However he & his family were very cruel at the end.

Favourite scene
When ML woke up after a surgery

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Transactional relationship turned into love

I adored Liu Yi Fan in her drama with Wang Bing Xiang. I liked Wang Zilin in another drama in which he played a blind ML. Overall it was an enjoyable watch for me but I prefer other transactional relationahip-turned-love drama.

What I liked:
1. Romance - ML was attracted to FL from the first moment he saw her. Their relationship was transactional at the start but slowly progressed into love. However Liu Yi Fan seemed skittish during kissing scenes. I didn't get the natural chemistry between her and Wang Zi Lin.
2. Styling - I am fascinated by Wang Zi Lin's beautifully styled hair.
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's friend the doctor even though he didn't stick to doctor-patient confidentiality.
4. Art - The embroidery and painting work done by FL were so adorable.
5. FL characterisation - It's great to see FL who wasn't intimidated by silly green tea.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - There were many in this drama. (i) FL's ex was so nosy and clearly disrespectful to her, (ii) colleague was delusional despite being told off, (iii) former arranged fiancée of ML was shameless, and last but not least ML's mother.

Favourite scene
When they played spin the soup spoon game

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The type of romance dramas I love - love, lust & frequent communication

I was drawn to this drama because of the title 'Seductive Kiss of The Rose'. A quick glance at the comments confirmed my gut feeling - this drama was worth watching. I enjoyed it very much that I occasionally watch it on repeat.

What I liked:
1. Romance - I was delighted to see 2 mature adults experiencing romance even though their marriage was arranged. It was a great mix of love, lust & frequent communication. Many steamy kisses & innuendo. ML's use of term of endearment was very sweet - I found Zhang Yi Hong's nasally voice soothing.
2. FL characterisation - She was a smart, capable CEO managing family business. She was also a kind & loving person as seen through her relationship with ML & her family. This is my first time watching Zhou Fei. I really liked her acting.
3. ML characterisation - He had this mysterious and dangerous aura surrounding him. I liked that he was loving & protective of his wife. Zhang Yi Hong was excellent in his role.
4. Sibling dynamics - I enjoyed watching the interactions between FL and her brothers. Her brothers trusted her.
5. Styling - I liked FL's styling. She had a dark but kind vibe that reminds me of Morticia Addams.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, antagonist in this drama was something else. He must have felt emasculated by FL's capability as CEO.
2. Death - Why must that person die? I was very sad.

Favourite scene
The golf course

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Plenty of physical intimacy but no emotional depth

Jiejie/older woman-younger man romance is my favourite trope. I appreciate that there are plenty of vertical dramas that cover this trope. Both Meng Na and Ye Hao Ran have acted in jiejie romance before so I had high expectations. However I was disappointed by the time I completed this drama.

If you want to watch better jiejie romance by these leads, look for either "Define Your Style" starring Meng Na & Liang Si Wei or "Wei Nian Ci Sheng" starring Ye Hao Ran & Sheng Yi Jie. Alternatively search for "Fake Love" starring Bai Yan & Feng Xiang Kun. That's my personal favourite jiejie romance from vertical dramaland.

What I liked:
1. Supporting characters - I really liked FL's brother as I thought his protectiveness was realistic. Grandpa was likeable.
2. Styling - I really liked ML's styling from hair & accessories to clothes and shoes. He looked very hip for someone in top management.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - Plenty of kissing and they got along well sexually but there was no emotional depth between ML & FL. It is frustrating that they never voiced out their feelings until the last 10 minutes of this drama. This drama is 2.5 hours long! I also disliked that FL was the one doing the most heavy lifting in the relationship.
2. ML characterisation - Feng Ling was insecure IMHO. I disliked his inner monologue about his feelings for his wife.
3. FL characterisation - There was a glimpse of FL at work but overall I was disappointed that most scenes of FL were related to her relationship with ML. It was as though her existence in this drama is to support ML's journey of romantic love.
4. Duration - This drama was too long for a simple, lack of communication romance. I fast-forwarded once I reached 1 hour 45 minute mark.

Favourite scene
FL took initiative on their first night as husband and wife

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Kisses everywhere indeed

As user Lindaseton mentioned in her review, there are, at the time of this review, four versions of this story. Version 1 starring Wang Zhao Yang & Guo Jing, version 2 starring Zhao Guan Yu & Zhang Shan, version 3 starring Wang Ying Jie & Shi Tong, version 4 starring Song Yubo & Wei fanshu. I watched version 2 (this version) first. I have watched Zhang Shan dramas in the past but Zhao Guan Yu was new to me. What a mighty fine introduction!

What I liked:
1. Romance - Wow, Zhao Guan Yu is the finest stud in vertical dramaland. The kisses between him and Zhang Shan were blazing hot. I echo what is said by a YouTube user - "They bless my eyes with so much intimate scenes. I love it!"
2. FL characterisation - Smart, confident, self-sufficient - all the qualities I like in FL.
3. Styling - Love the hairstyling & outfits worn by FL. Gorgeous!

What I disliked:
1. FL ex husband - He is the stupidest husband ever for agreeing to be cuckold. Double standard - he has no right to be jealous!
2. Mistress arc - Gosh she annoyed me so much that I felt like slapping her. I wish she was given less screen time.
3. ML's grandpa - OMG the twist!
4. Relationship - It's great that ML supported FL by investigating her ex's family. However I wish there were more scenes that focused on their growing emotional connection. Something that would be unique to them i.e. not related to FL's family problems.

Favourite scene
ML answered FL's phone when she was in the shower

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Great acting by Lu Lu Lu in this hidden identity drama

I was in the 'military man' phase after watching So You Also Like Me and The Squadron Leader's Doting Darling Wife. Saw the word 'soldier' in the title on the thumbnail so I clicked 'Play'. I was hoping for a military romance but nope, ML was transitioning from a soldier to a CEO.

What I liked:
1. Lu Lu Lu - I have enjoyed Lu Lu Lu's dramas. Superb acting especially the sad scenes. I was touched by her acting.
2. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's mother because she was nice. ML's assistant was likeable too.
3. FL characterisation - She was smart & hardworking and I liked her.
4. Hidden identity - This trope provided the comic relief in the earlier parts of the drama.
5. Romance - Their first meeting was a meet cute! Sweet romance. ML was smitten by FL right from the start.

What I disliked:
1. Xi Er Li - His acting was too restrained & unemotional. I didn't like it. Despite that, I appreciated his height & handsomeness.
2. The rivalry - The rivalry betwen ML & his cousin was over the top. Sketchy board members need to be fired.
3. Drunk - FL was drunk so much after she had gotten marriage license with ML. I disliked that she was wasted & alone (no drinking buddy) because she put herself in dangerous situation.

Favourite scene
When FL was sorrowful due to passing of a family member

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Likeable couple, super cute kid & interesting antagonist made this drama enjoyable

I am a fan of Zhang Yi Lun from his dramas with Yi La. I have also seen Li Tian Yuan in her drama with Zhang Yi Yang. I was drawn to this drama because of its introductory scene. Overall I liked this drama.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She was a hardworking, single mum. Even though she struggled in meeting ends meet, she held on to her values & integrity. Li Tian Yuan was convincing enough for the role.
2. ML characterisation - He was warm, respectful & protective of his family. I liked Zhang Yi Lun's acting in this drama.
3. Romance - Slow burn. I liked that they were not strongly driven by lust which is understandable considering FL's single mum status.
4. Supporting characters - ML's mother was great for her warmth & kindness towards FL.

What I disliked:
1. The child casting - It's amusing that the kid seemed big (like aged 1-1.5 years) in the first scene then gradually grew younger. By the time ML met him, the kid looked like a 6 month old child.
2. Antagonists - I hate antagonist that bullies children & elderly. I also thought FL's mother was judgemental & intrusive.

Favourite scene
When FL firmly informed her mother that she wanted to be with ML

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Kindness & patience never felt this rewarding before

I remember the date I watched this drama. It was 2 February 2025, right after I finished watching GOT7 livestreamed concert. Anyway what drew me to this drama was the title & high view count. I enjoyed this drama even though the 'philandering prince of Beijing' title was misleading.

What I liked:
1. ML's characterisation - I liked that he was not CEO but he was rugged, work-with-his-hands guy! He was intense at times but overall treated FL with respect. Cheng Yue was good and sweet in this role.
2. FL's characterisation - I am not a fan of meek FLs but she won me over with her sweet demeanor & character growth. I liked that she never took advantage of ML's kindness. She had just gotten out of a bad relationship & didn't go for rebound/one night stand. Hu Jia Ni did well in this role.
3. Romance - For once, I was glad that their romance developed slowly. Their love language was definitely act of service. Their height difference was big but adorable.
4. Supporting characters - The two mechanics were entertaining.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - I hate men who abused their power at workplace. FL's boss was despicable.

Favourite scene
When ML made a surprise visit to FL's hotel room

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Plenty kisses, strong visuals but story played it safe

Someone wrote about this drama on reddit. Apparently there were 4 versions of this plot and this version was their favourite version. I was intrigued because I had never seen Shi Tong's work before. So last night I watched before going to sleep.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Shi Tong & Wang Ying Jie had a combustible chemistry. There were many kissing & intimate scenes I thought their clothes were going to set on fire. Some sweet moments were present too, courtesy of ML. However I wish there were more discussions between them about their relationship.
2. Acting - I was impressed by Shi Tong's acting. Will definitely watch her other dramas. Wang Ying Jie & Zhang Chi were also good in their roles. Both actors were handsome.
3. Styling - Great styling for FL, ML & SML enhanced their good looks.

What I disliked:
1. FL's arc - Her boxing story was fascinating but sadly wasn't elaborated. I wish director & writer used different approach to tell story of her past because her reason for sticking to her ex hubby was only unveiled in the third act.
2. Antagonists - SML's mistress was irritating & disrespectful. FL's cousin was annoying too.
3. ML's arc - ML's arc was also underdeveloped. I'd like to know more about him as individual. Why was he in fights?

Favourite scene
Makeout session before the auction

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Fascinating forensic medical examiner FL in a well-written romance drama

I was intrigued by this drama because of FL's occupation - a forensic medical examiner. I hadn't watched Zhang Ruo Chen's drama before but am familiar with Wang Bo. I enjoyed this drama immensely!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Song Wei Wei was intelligent and self-efficient. She didn't need her husband to solve her problem. I loved how she dealt with the white moonlight, the award and donation. I was impressed by Zhang Ruo Chen's acting. I'll definitely check out her other dramas.
2. ML characterisation - Green flag hero but with a flaw, which should be the way so the character can grow. His flaw is his assumptions about his wife but he learned his lessons. Oh I really liked that he's proud of her wife being a forensic medical examiner, unlike her ex. I liked Wang Bo's acting here because his drama with Wang Ge Ge left me disappointed.
3. Romance - Slow burn. Mostly sweet with slight spice. I really liked that ML trusted FL right from the start of their flash marriage. There was great chemistry between Zhang Ruo Chen and Wang Bo.
4. Forensic - Thank you to the director for showcasing FL at work. I appreciate the forensic work scenes even though there were just a handful.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked FL's close colleague, grandmothers from both FL & ML.
6. Antagonists - I think the main antagonist arc was done well. Bitter ex who also had issues related to inheritance.

What I disliked:
1. Luxury goods - I wish the scene where ML's grandma gifted a designer bag to FL was written better. It gave a little haughty vibe but I know ML's grandma meant well.
2. Wedding scene - I wish FL's grandma was there because it was a very special event. Anyway I didn't like FL's wedding dress as it looked too 80s to me.

Favourite scene
When FL confronted her dean & his niece about the award and donation

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A delightfully sweet & comical time travelling/transmigration romcom

I haven't used my paid iQiyi subscription ever since I discovered vertical c dramas on Youtube last December. Yesterday I browsed my app and realised that I could watch shorts / vertical dramas on iQiyi with my subscription (unlike another OTT platform that I've subscribed too). Decided on this particular drama because of the title 'Lost Memory, Handsome in Panic'. Very delighted to see my favourite actress Zhang Chu Xuan in the first episode!

What I liked:
1. Plot - Refreshing tale of time travel/transmigration. I didn't know where the drama was going to take me after my initial guesses were inaccurate. I just enjoyed the drama.
2. Comedy - This drama was hilarious. Zhang Chu Xuan aced comedy bits once again.
3. Romance - Sweet, sweet, sweet romance with many warm & tender moments. There was a misunderstanding about ML's concealed identity but it was resolved within the next episode.
4. FL characterisation - FL was hardworking, smart and self-assured. I loved her interactions with ML and her sister. She was even kind to a supposedly love rival.
5. ML characterisation - ML was besotted with FL and I could see why. He was kind and supportive towards FL - he became her mentor when she needed help with improving her business acumen. I was pleasantly surprised to see Huang Jing Zhou as the ML. I had seen him as SML in a mini drama - he had very little screen time but his looks captivated me. Huang Jing Zhou gave me Luo Yunxi vibe!
6. Supporting characters - It's refreshing that there is no sibling rivalry in this drama. I loved FL's sister! I also liked FL's parents, FL's supposedly love rival & ML's friend even though they had very short screentime.

What I disliked:
1. Lu Wanqing - What happened to the original Lu Wanqing? What's her story with her family?

Favourite scene
When ML first met FL in modern time. He was spellbound!

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FL fitting as ballerina, sweet romance

I saw clips of this drama on my Youtube shorts. As I clicked play, this drama's plot seemed familiar to me as I recognised the names of FL, ML, FL's ex and FL's occupation. This is the second version of the plot that I have watched version. The other version starred Wang Xin and Lei Xiaomi.

What I liked:
1. Styling - Wang Xiaoyi, who played FL, looked beautiful in several outfits in particular red dress & traditional outfit that she wore for dancing. I also like the tracksuits. Wang Nan with silver hair looked like anime character - that was cool moment which reminds me of Lighter & Princess.
2. Ballet - I love the scenes where FL danced ballet. Wang Xiaoyi was graceful & elegant.
3. Romance - Sweet romance. Milder intimate scenes compared to Wang Xin-Lei Xiaomi version.

What I disliked:
1. Variety show - There was a solo female contestant in the variety show. It made the show imbalanced.
2. Duration - This drama's duration is 1 hour 45 minutes. I wish drama was at least 2 hours because I wanted to see more romantic scenes.

Favourite scene
FL dancing ballet

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Wang Yi Ran excelled in this soul swapped romcom

I love Secret Love at 30,000 feet so I searched for other dramas that have both Wang Yi Ran & Hong Cheng Yue. Decided to watch this drama after a watching revenge-heavy vertical drama. This drama is entertaining!

What I liked:
1. Comedy - OMG the comedic parts were hilarious. I was pleasantly surprised by Wang Yi Ran's acting as I've only watched him in dramatic roles. Hong Cheng Yue & actor who played ML's assistant were good too!
2. Romance - It's a nice, sweet build up from '2 strangers stuck in same predicament' to 'partners in "crime" and eventually in life'.
3. Supporting characters - I like ML's assistant, FL's close colleague & ML's mother. I kinda like FL's crush even though he had short screentime. He was an eyecandy.
4. Ending - It's not original as I've seen same ending being used in other vertical dramas. Nevertheless it is a funny yet touching ending.

What I disliked:
1. Product placement - I found it amusing than dislike. I was laughing when the brand made appearance at the couple's romantic dinner at a restaurant.
2. Fangirls - Gosh Mr Fu has many self-proclaimed fiancées. The head fangirl is delulu & cruel!
3. Gossipmongers - Public shaming is popular trope in vertical dramas but gosh one particular scene baffled me. FL, head fangirl & their colleagues were having a meeting with a client & head fangirl accused FL of purposely losing client's deck. There were 2 colleagues that joined in the bashing. That's shameful because in real life, internal conflict shouldn't be made public because that behaviour would give negative image of a company to a client.

Favourite scene
When ML asked his assistant for love advice. Assistant really worked hard on it!

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