I’ve watched hundreds of dramas including Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese, and Korean dramas. Despite watching so many Asian dramas this is still in my top ten favorites. It’s an amazing show well worth watching.

This is a melodrama with a little bit of everything. There’s an epic romance, great comedy, political intrigue, warring gods, and excellent fighting scenes. The cinematography is really good. And I like that the female lead is a badass that can hold her own. It’s refreshing to see a female lead that’s not only strong and confident but super clever too. She single handedly defeats a very powerful god that few others could fight. And the male lead is one of my all time favorite male leads. He’s handsome, powerful, unselfish, and extremely loyal. This drama has a fair amount of angst but the sweetness of the romance, the depth of the story, the phenomenal acting, and the beautiful ending that ties up all the loose ends make it all worth it.

The love story of the main leads is what really drives this drama. I love that the male lead never waivers in his feelings for the female lead and will do anything for her. He never, even for a minute, gives up on her and is very open with his affection. I love how he tossed her over his shoulder and took her to their room when his strength and virility is questioned. And the numerous kisses are swoon worthy. There’s lots of skinship and sweet romantic moments too. Theirs is one of my all time favorite romances.

Another strength of this drama is the really great side characters. From the sweet little boy named Ali who just wants to find his mom, to the mischievous nine tailed fox Feng Jiu who valiantly pursues true love , to the powerful god Mo Yuan and his unrequited love, the side characters have so much depth and growth.

I normally don’t watch really long dramas but this one is so worth it. And I don’t rewatch dramas but I’ve rewatched this one several times. All of the side characters are interesting and there are cute side couples. This drama never has a dull moment. If I had to complain, it would be about the male leads adopted sister and her crazy obsession with him. But honestly, she should win an award for her acting. She really pulls you into her crazy head and does a great job of making you hate her.

Overall I’d say don’t pass this one up. Yes it’s long and yes it’s angsty and melodramatic which is not usually my cup of tea. I don’t like dramas that make me cry or get really upset. I usually prefer light sweet funny romcoms. But this drama is just too good to pass up. I’ll go back and get angry and cry because the romance is so touching and the side characters are so endearing that it’s worth it.