v4runavv1

I have mixed feelings about this drama, the storyline has a lot of potential, especially with the revenge plot, family conflicts and secrets

I like that the fl has her own goals and isn’t simply there for the romance. She was determined to find out the truth about her mother’s death, which is so much better than her just running behind ml with no other goal

Xu Kai as Shen Run is definitely the highlight for me tho

He was intelligent, calculating and difficult to figure out. You can tell that there’s more to his character than who he was shown as

Their dynamic is probably one of the biggest reasons I’d recommend this show

The chemistry between the leads is insane. The banter, the tension and the fact that the relationship doesn’t randomly pop out of nowhere

They have their own motives, and they’re trying to figure each other out while also working towards their individual goals was really good to watch

However, I do think the romantic development can feel uneven and I wish some moments had been given more time to develop cuz it felt hurried or cut out at some points, tho I understand it’s directed by a suspense eye

My biggest issue is the writing and pacing. There are parts of the plot that are genuinely intriguing, but sometimes the story gets caught up in family politics and side plots that is so unnecesary

Some character decisions could also have been explained better, because there are moments when I want to know WHY did they do this but nope, we apparently just move on

Visually, I enjoy the historical setting, costumes and overall aesthetic. I love love love how they’ve tried putting their outfits together/ color coordinating them

I would have preferred a tighter storyline with more focus on the characters’ motivations than just random drama

Do I like it? Yes, but would I call it a very good drama? Probably not

(also can we talk ab how shen run is always camping at fls house??????)