==Breakdown==
Background plot / palace intrigue - 85%
Romance - 15%

Background plot - Meh
Romantic chemistry - Excellent
Misc comedy - Good
Production value and direction - Good

Let's be honest, if you watch and enjoy this drama, it's because you like Ding Yu Xi. This is my first drama with this actor and I'm now watching his entire backlist.

There is nothing else exceptional about the drama. Thus, you have to set your expectations appropriately. The story isn't the worst. It's mid / fine but I found it convoluted at times and boring most of the time. The production value is fine-- not mind-blowing, not bad, just fine. The rest of the cast is pretty good and plays their parts well. I liked the FL-- the actress and her character-- quite a lot and look forward to her future projects.

But Ding Yu Xi is BY FAR the best part of this show and I have re-watched his scenes because he's just so dang mesmerizing. He eats this role and the character of Shen Du is exceptional / interesting / captivating because of the actor who plays the part.

I'd say it's 30% palace intrigue, 55% solving mysteries, and 15% romance. The leads had great chemistry (for their 15% of the story), but if you watch Cdramas for the romance, maybe just watch some compilation videos on YouTube and skip this one.

Then again, if you're a fan of Ding Yu Xi, this one is worth watching for him / his scenes alone.