I agree with Netflix's description of this show as cathartic. It was incredibly satisfying to watch, while at the same time being deeply frustrating. What bothered me most was how accurately it reflects the reality that there are students, teachers, parents, and administrators who genuinely believe they are above it all.
Of course, the show isn't particularly realistic in its portrayal of justice. The kinds of consequences the "good guys" are able to impose on the villains would never be permitted in the real world. In reality, those who abuse their power often face far fewer repercussions than they deserve.
Still, if you're looking for a series that delivers a sense of justice and allows you to watch truly awful people receive the punishment they have earned, it's a thoroughly satisfying and entertaining watch.
The underlying plot was ok, solid enough to keep the story moving, but the romance was unquestionably the highlight. The chemistry between the leads was electric, making every interaction utterly captivating. The relationship between the second couple was just as enjoyable to watch.
What truly elevated the romance, however, was the way it was presented. The director understood that sometimes the most powerful moments are found in what is left unsaid. Lingering glances, subtle gestures, and carefully timed pauses created a palpable tension that was both romantic and sexy without ever feeling forced. The soundtrack was used with remarkable restraint; rather than overwhelming a scene, the music slipped in at exactly the right moments to heighten the emotion. Equally effective were the pauses and silence in between, allowing the actors' expressions and chemistry to speak for themselves. Those quiet moments often carried so much intensity.
Such a fun watch - I feel like the show is making fun of all the bad aspects of old lakorns and telenovelas...Like someone else said - it is so bad that it is good!
Just binged from episode 20 to 28, and I’m still not sure what it is about this show that keeps pulling me in. It’s not particularly original — the usual family rivalries, business competition, and endless schemes — yet somehow it remains incredibly engaging. Maybe it’s the charm Yang Zi brings to her character, or the chemistry between her and Elvis’ character and their genuinely endearing slow-burn romance. Maybe it’s the emotional weight of watching the family endure hardships together through thick and thin. Or maybe it’s simply the calming depiction of the ink industry and the history and stories around it. It doesn’t really matter why I like it. I just do.
So far, so good. The first case was bitter, but at least both justice and revenge were served in the end. The production quality has been solid, and I’m really enjoying FSF’s portrayal of Di Renjie. I’m not as invested in the supporting characters yet, especially Duan Shi Si. I wish Li Yu would try a different acting style —he tends to lean into the same exaggerated, quirky mannerisms in every role, and it’s starting to feel tired.
A trope that I enjoy - reborn, deliberate swap of husbands and potential futures. This was a good production and the main characters were likable. Also, like the previous comment, I also liked the twist with the consort.
Just started and binged to ep 13. I was surprised by the Elvis Han-Yang Zi pairing but it’s working for me. I tend to like the characters Yang Zi picked and again I’m not disappointed. This show about the ink industry has been very interesting so far. Ok, those who have watched the latest episodes, can someone please spoil me? Will that hate-filled 4th aunt be punished finally? I cannot believe that she would rather bring down the whole Li Ink business than to see Li Zhen succeed 😡
Fun quick watch. Both seasons are enjoyable and the leads are really cute. It’s true though - the words from the ML’s mouth can be infuriating 😆 especially the last episode!
I absolutely love the direction and execution of this drama, the styling, the effects, the music, the feels, just everything about it! Any show that can convert me into a fan of an actor deserves. 10. I didn’t initially have much of an impression of Chen Du Ling and Ju Jing Yi but they completely won me over with their phenomenal acting in this show.
10 
17 
2 
1 
Of course, the show isn't particularly realistic in its portrayal of justice. The kinds of consequences the "good guys" are able to impose on the villains would never be permitted in the real world. In reality, those who abuse their power often face far fewer repercussions than they deserve.
Still, if you're looking for a series that delivers a sense of justice and allows you to watch truly awful people receive the punishment they have earned, it's a thoroughly satisfying and entertaining watch.
What truly elevated the romance, however, was the way it was presented. The director understood that sometimes the most powerful moments are found in what is left unsaid. Lingering glances, subtle gestures, and carefully timed pauses created a palpable tension that was both romantic and sexy without ever feeling forced. The soundtrack was used with remarkable restraint; rather than overwhelming a scene, the music slipped in at exactly the right moments to heighten the emotion. Equally effective were the pauses and silence in between, allowing the actors' expressions and chemistry to speak for themselves. Those quiet moments often carried so much intensity.
Recommend highly!
Maybe it’s the charm Yang Zi brings to her character, or the chemistry between her and Elvis’ character and their genuinely endearing slow-burn romance. Maybe it’s the emotional weight of watching the family endure hardships together through thick and thin. Or maybe it’s simply the calming depiction of the ink industry and the history and stories around it.
It doesn’t really matter why I like it. I just do.
The production quality has been solid, and I’m really enjoying FSF’s portrayal of Di Renjie.
I’m not as invested in the supporting characters yet, especially Duan Shi Si. I wish Li Yu would try a different acting style —he tends to lean into the same exaggerated, quirky mannerisms in every role, and it’s starting to feel tired.
I tend to like the characters Yang Zi picked and again I’m not disappointed. This show about the ink industry has been very interesting so far.
Ok, those who have watched the latest episodes, can someone please spoil me? Will that hate-filled 4th aunt be punished finally? I cannot believe that she would rather bring down the whole Li Ink business than to see Li Zhen succeed 😡