Over 2,000 years old, Bai Qi has dedicated his life, and considerable wealth he's accumulated, to finding spirits who've been polluted by their obsessions. All of these spirits also have a commonality: the ownership of magical artifacts which allows them to extend their lives, becoming nearly immortal. This is possible because all artifacts are pieces of jade which have been imbued with power of an alien race that crash landed on earth centuries ago. Whether it's jade paint brush or a pair of jade earrings, it always amplifies the object of their obsession. If left uncured, these spirits turn evil and become a threat to the mortals around them. Bai Qi uses his power to cure them before that time arrives. However, his world is turned upside down by the unexpected arrival of Lin Xia, an energetic actress who gets tangled up with a spirit. What's more, she bears an uncanny appearance to Bai Qi's former lover, who sacrificed herself for him thousands of years ago. Bai Qi is drawn to her out of curiosity, and the two start solving mysteries and curing spirits together, as well as becoming roommates. As Bai Qi starts to piece together his own memory and forgotten past, he will eventually have face his own obsession, as well as the decision to embrace it or let go of Lin Xia.

It's been awhile since I've watched a modern fantasy drama (a genre which doesn't get near enough attention!), so I'm glad I wasn't disappointed. Despite the odd title, Fairlyand Lovers nailed so many aspects, that you can easily overlook it's flaws. For example, the intro to every episode is an animated prologue which helps you understand the complexity of the series and details such as how the spirits, the cosmic jade, and the alien race, known as heavenly soldiers, interact. Additionally, with Lin Xia's character, her honey-like sweetness and naiveté could cross over into the unbearable, but this is what helps distinguish her from her deceased dopplegange, as well as comes across more endearing. It also serves as a balance to Bai Qi's moody and brooding persona. I thought the story brought great surprises, some nice laughs and gasps, and not too many side characters and sub-plots. Actually, because this only clocks in at 35 episodes, shorter than your average C-Drama, the story benefits by not including unnecessary filler story arcs or under-developed characters. A great series to kick-off 2020.

Like what you read here? Check out my blog: https://www.dramafoxblog.com