Story:
The first episode of The Long Ballad is very engaging and will hook you right away! The biggest strength of this drama is how each and every character has their own story arcs and their journeys are very interesting, happy or sad, you'll look forward to what will happen next. As the story progresses, all of the main characters will mature and grow from every win, mistake, and obstacle that they encounter. The main couple's relationship is very healthy; they love and trust each other and care about each other's happiness. The story also features multiple secondary couples, each with their own stories about how they will form their relationships. The focus of the story isn't on romance though, the kissing scenes are limited.

Cast and Characters:
- Dilraba Dilmurat as Princess Yongning or Li Changge: Her performance in this drama is way better than in TKW. She portrayed a character kind of similar to Mulan. She is well suited to play this type of character.
- Leo Wu as Ashile Sun: This is the first time I have seen this actor. I think he did well, I liked his expressions and the way he portrayed Ashile Sun as that fierce fighter.
- Zhao Lusi as Princess Yong'an or Li Leyan: She stole the show! Her character got the best growth.
- Liu Yuning as Hao Du: I loved him. I rooted for his character to get his happy ending till the end. He is my favorite character.
- Alen Fang Yilung as Wei Shuyu: he did well, and he is handsome. I disliked his character though, he is useless.
- Supporting cast: all of them were good. The one who hired these actors did a good job. The one who stood out for me is the actor who played Li Shimin.

And lastly, the female leads are cousins in the story. I just want to mention how much I loved the fact that the writer never pitted them against each other.

Music:
This drama has one of the best soundtracks.

Overall:
This one is more than just about revenge, and it is a must-watch! I highly recommend it.