One of the top c dramas there is to watch. It has great characters, with great writing,(til final stretch of episodes) supported by great actors. If you love period pieces this ranks as a must watch. This show was my first introduction to Chinese dramas and because it was so great it made 99% of c dramas unwatchable as they are lacking in every way in comparison.

I find most c dramas have male leads with very little to them besides being 1 tone throughout entire show. Either being complete puppy dogs or total jerks. Only SSS and Joy of Life S1 compare to this show with such diverse personas and well written characters.

Most c dramas struggle from the midpoint on, this show was amazing until the final stretch of episodes. Which in itself is impressive for the number of episodes. But i have to rate based on the entirety, 9.5 stars and with a stronger close it would've been a ten for me