This was stressful but I couldn't stop watching it!

Neglected by their father, these five siblings go through a lot and you can't help but root for them. There's the stubborn but devoted eldest brother Yi Cheng, who you simultaneously admire and want to shake—basically his cousin is 100% right about him every time they argue. The second brother Er Qiang is so simple and sweet, ambling through life trying to get things right. Third sister San Li is good-natured but will firmly stand up for herself. (I haven't been a fan of Mao Xiaotong in the past but I really loved her as San Li.) And ah, the youngest sister Si Mei. I loved her lively spirit and that she follows her heart... but sometimes she definitely needed some rationality. The quiet fifth brother Qi Qi has the least screentime but I especially liked his moments towards the end. And although their father is terrible, there are plenty of other contenders for worst human being! Ha.

The rate of marriage and divorce was quite high but this isn't a romance-centered drama. It's really about the bond between the siblings and how they're always there for each other. I only wish that there had been more heartwarming, quiet moments in between all the crises! It felt like Yi Cheng couldn't catch a break because there was always someone in the family who needed his help. I also would've loved to see more development of the relationship between certain pairs. This drama was (only) 36 episodes and I wouldn't have minded if it were longer!

The standout supporting character is Yi Cheng's colleague and friend Song Qing Yuan, who brings some levity to all his scenes. He's not only a loyal friend, he's direct and honest with Yi Cheng, not holding back on what needs to be said. This is the third supporting role I've seen Chang Long in and I hope he gets a bigger role in the future. Overall, every cast member in The Bond is great though.

Lastly, the theme song by Zhou Shen is so beautiful and perfect for this drama.