Savasvania

Upon finishing the series I changed my mind. I hated this. I liked almost none of the characters, the schemes were too repetitive, certain villains lived too long(princess ya), and I didnt buy any of the love triangle. They took some liberties here are there with Hao lan and Lou buwei's character so when you try to have a historically accurate last episode it just falls flat. I would have rather seen Hao lan have an affair with him. Isn't that better than having her character getting tarnished for something she didn't do? Ima stop here cause I won't stop complaining if I don't. I will say the production value was excellent throughout.

I can't say I dislike this show, but it isn't great plotwise. It just keeps playing hot potato with whoever is in need of saving between the three main leads. Occasionally they toss the potato to a supporting character, but that doesn't freshen up the formula. For a show as long as it is so far there isn't a lot of time to just let the characters cook. The music, costumes, and sets are amazing though.

I can see the influences in newer palace dramas that come from this series, but that doesn't mean it is good. The pacing is so tight that there is no room left to let the story breath and develop naturally. On-sin is the ONLY likeable character. And for a royal palace drama the emperor is hardly in it, he seems to be an after thought for these women when he is the goal.

Please do give it a chance! I never intended to give the impression it is a bad show, just very heavy mentally. The male lead is nice to look at, it helps :)

If you thought Ruyi was too depressing then you'll hate RN, probably.

I do think he grows as a character... some. BUT yes, he is ALWAYS suffering. I have to wonder if the novelist who wrote the original story hates the crown prince for some reason. Don't get me wrong, I love a depressing story, but this one felt like it had no reason to be so depressing. So watch at your own metal risk.

This was a rough one for sure. It IS a good series, but emotionally exhausting.

I finished it. No, it was not worth it.

I've been waiting years for someone to upload subbed versions of the last episodes. It's a shame because it is one of my favorites.

Sad, but it still it worth the watch.

My favorite is Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace. I'll give it a shot when my next drama slot opens up, lol. Currently working through 3 series at the same time cause I'm insane.

Can I ask why you like it so much? Just curious cause I also have a favorite series that nothing else compares to, but am looking for something to scratch that same itch.

I have dropped this series once for the same reasoning. I'm back to finish it just to say I did...