Reviews

Always a sucker for those shows

How I miss the action and goresome of a Kdrama. This season was certainly filled with it and man, it's so gritty and frustrating at the same time. It's unlike those shows where somehow the MCs are one step ahead of their foes, but this season, it isn't always the case. At the end it still resulted into fist fights in the most brutal way. If you're a sucker for shibal moments then yes watch this.

One side note is that compared to the 1st season, this had some weird scenes that were forced? Like the humor and unnecessary scenes with the cameos. I do appreciate the cameos, it doesn't make sense sometimes. Other than that pleas do watch this season. Defo inferior from the first but still a great season.

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Started strong but lost me in the Family politics

This is only my second C-drama, and I picked it up after constantly seeing it pop up on recommendation lists and reading a few positive reviews. On top of that, enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, so this drama naturally ended up on my watchlist.

The story starts with a familiar setup: two rival clans and a political alliance marriage. It's a classic premise, but it works well here. When the female lead arrives in the male lead's state, he's immediately annoyed by her presence and keeps her at arm's length. Slowly, though, she begins earning his trust. My only issue is that, for someone constantly described as a hater of her clan, the male lead softens a little too quickly. His transition felt faster than what his characterization initially promised.

That said, the first 6–7 episodes were absolutely fantastic and had me hooked. Unfortunately, the drama started losing me when the focus shifted toward the mother-in-law and the male lead's cousin constantly scheming to break the alliance. What began as a story with political stakes and tension gradually started feeling more like household politics and family drama. I found myself getting bored during these episodes and eventually put the show on hold.

The main reason I haven't dropped it completely is the female lead. I absolutely love her character. She's smart, capable, and refreshingly subtle in the way she handles problems. She doesn't rely on over-the-top reactions or dramatic displays to prove how strong she is, which made her very enjoyable to watch.

I wasn't sold on the male lead at first, but he eventually grew on me. The chemistry between the leads works really well, and their romance is enjoyable to follow. I also appreciate a good slow-burn relationship.

For now, though, the story has leaned a bit too much into daily-soap-style family politics for my taste. Maybe it picks up again later, but for the moment, I'm taking a break and plan to return to it sometime in the future.

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The Daily Grind With A Side of Romance

If you prefer mature, character-driven storytelling, Fake It Till You Make is a good watch! It takes a sharp look at what it takes to survive the modern corporate grind and find connection in a hyper-competitive city. However, be warned that although there is a lot of chemistry between the leads, this drama spends much more time in the boardroom than the bedroom.

What I Liked:
Multidimensional Women: The real heart of this show belongs to the women. From the female lead to her boss and her sister-cousin, every woman gets a textured, layered, and interesting character arc. They do the heavy lifting of self-discovery while navigating corporate pressure. The men often feel like typical male archetypes, their roles are either mirrors or obstacles for the women to grow from.

Tang Ying’s Professional Growth: Her character arc is satisfying. Seeing her find her voice by setting hard boundaries, taking time off to recover from a stress-induced health crisis, and choosing to work smarter, not harder, was incredibly empowering.

The Chemistry & The Finale Turnaround: The physical and verbal chemistry between the leads is off the charts. The "playboy" male lead can be frustrating at times with his reluctance to set boundaries and settle down, he redeems himself in the final episode. Seeing him step up, slow down, be vulnerable, and genuinely take care of her is what makes the final episode incredibly swoony. Be warned that he is not a complete green flag and he has his reasons, but we do see a satisfying character arc from him.

What Didn't Work As Well
Too Much Office, Not Enough Romance: My biggest criticism is that the show is overly focused on boardroom meetings and workplace logistics. Because of the heavy corporate clutter, we only get glimpses into their actual relationship. With chemistry this good, we deserved fewer work meetings and more screen time dedicated to their dynamic. But when they were together, those scenes were golden.

The Commitment Question: Despite the gorgeous finale, this relationship can feel much more like a fun, playful "for now" situationship driven by chemistry and a shared fear of being alone, rather than a reliable, long-term lifetime commitment. He is definitely difficult to resist and knows it.

Final Thoughts
A refreshing, highly aesthetic, and mature watch that cuts out typical, cheesy romance tropes. Come for the incredible push-and-pull chemistry, stay for the brilliant female character developments!

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Sometimes simple is exactly what you need

This was such an easy and enjoyable watch. It doesn’t try to be overly complicated or revolutionary, but there’s something charming about the way it tells its story. The atmosphere stays light for most of the journey, the characters are easy to like, and the romance develops in a way that keeps you invested without relying on constant drama. What I appreciated most was how effortlessly watchable it was; it became one of those dramas I could put on and immediately relax with. The chemistry between the leads was strong enough to make me care about their relationship, and even when the story followed familiar tropes, it did so with enough heart to keep me engaged. Maybe it won’t be the most memorable drama I’ve ever watched, but it left me smiling, and sometimes that’s more than enough.

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GL problematic

It was nice at first, it really had potential if the production hadn’t decided to make Flint’s character an aggressor. And even then, it could have worked if she had been considered the villain of the story. But at no point is the assault she commits on Sun (and her twin, lol) really addressed. She is forgiven as if it were a small mistake, when in fact it’s extremely serious! Anyway, I stopped at that episode out of disgust. I just skimmed through to see if it had been acknowledged! Spoiler: no. Instead, the character just gets more toxic episode by episode, with a “happy” ending where they end up together, even though the relationship if you can even call it that is extremely strange and toxic, but presented as healthy. Awful, I wasted my time! (I blame the production, not the actresses of course.)

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Expected End.

I started watching half expecting to have the entertainment a little higher as it started with energy. After ep 4 it started bordering on boredom and finally crossed over and ending there. It didn’t have the electrical charge to be fully engaging.

I like PearlPeak. Visually and response wise, they complement each other. It was the story itself. It didn’t have much to build on even with the duplicity. It slowed down a lot in the last three eps and it didn’t help that Gaysorn's personality was so soft. Thai directors need to up their game at storytelling. Seeing the officers just waltz in at the end to arrest Wittaya was depressing. Mata speaking on 'shout' was distressing. Plotwise seeing Gaysorn forgive Scent to the point to going back to him after his family was destroyed and he being schemed and manipulated by him was sad. Expected but sad.

I was grateful for it ending at 8 eps. It was okay but not wow. It could have been better. Gave them a 7 for original idea, knowing when to end, general acting and PearlPeak chemistry.

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A beautiful mess with an unfinished feeling

I stayed invested mainly because of the leads and their chemistry, which carried a lot of the emotional weight of the drama. I enjoyed the themes of first love, separation, and finding each other again after years apart, and there were several moments that genuinely worked for me. My biggest issue was the final stretch of the story. One of the leads suddenly spirals, and for a while it feels like his behavior comes completely out of nowhere, only for the drama to reveal in the last episode that he has bipolar disorder. That is such a significant piece of information, yet it arrives so late that it doesn’t have the emotional impact or development it deserved. The last two episodes felt incredibly rushed, as if the drama expected viewers to simply accept everything without taking the time to properly explore the consequences or emotions behind it. I also really appreciated the younger brother and his partner, who brought a lot of warmth and support whenever the story became too heavy. That said, for a Chinese BL, I was genuinely surprised by how much they managed to show and imply. Considering the limitations and likely censorship involved, there were several moments I honestly never expected to see on screen, and for that alone the series deserves some credit. Despite its flaws, the chemistry between the leads kept me invested until the very end.

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subtle chemistry but the music got me

When I first heard “You and Me” by Lee Dong Won, I immediately downloaded it and added it to my favorites without realizing it was part of this series. Three years later, I finally had the chance to watch Happy Merry Ending. The moment the song was performed at the first wedding, I was completely immersed. It is one of my favorite love songs, and because it has been part of my playlist for so long—even finding its way into my dreams—the experience felt deeply personal and almost surreal.

The chemistry between the two leads is subtle, yet unmistakable. Their connection develops naturally, proving that sometimes a simple approach to storytelling is the most effective. The series has a charm reminiscent of older romantic films, relying on quiet moments rather than dramatic gestures.

The soundtrack plays a huge role in elevating the story, and the slow-burn progression of the relationship is enjoyable from beginning to end. The production feels clean and understated, and while some may find it a bit sterile, it never needs intimate scenes to create emotional depth. Instead, it succeeds through sincerity, music, and the believable growth of its characters.

And when Sung Tae sang “My Heart” while playing the piano, my heart completely melted.

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Perfume Boy

I sure would have love to see them hold a wedding, that wedding toast would have stole the show. Scent would be like, 'Remember when we first met, and I burned down your village and tried to steal your sweat for a profit?' and Gaysorn would go. 'Remember that one time your uncle and dad tortued my mother, and then they shoved my dad down the stairs and your uncle murdered my mother? hahhaha, good times'. Lol. Anyway, this drama was beautiful, but it was so painfully predicatable.

I always wonder, at what point does love start not being enough? Because here, after everything Gaysorn ended up with Scent. How is that relationship going to survive? Sure, they didn't do any of the original hurt, that's karma between Scent's family and Gaysorn's parents. Still, are the two so in-love, they'd never talk about it? Would Scent say sorry whenever Gaysorn remember his parents, cuz, at some point, the elefant in the room would be mentioned.

Anyway, as said, this drama was predictable, beautiful, but predication. You'd think a murder plot would be interesting, but after the finale, I was like, oh, it's over. The whole time, I thought the dude was dead and dreaming in a sunflower field, but apprently he grew that much in those two camera panes so... But yeah, cocept was interesting, but the whole thing felt underwelhmeing on the whole. Frankly, I was expecting more of a fantasy vibe from the concept instead of a murder case and Scent stealing sweat.

And I say it's beautiful, cuz that flower boy was perfectly cast, some scenes with the butterflies and flowers and scent were enchanting, and that perfume maker paired well with him as always. Nice concept, it's just, except for the boy smelling like the inside of a flower shop, everything else that happened wasn't new. Typical plot of boy starts off with ill intentions, falls in love, get's caught, regrets, cry for the camera a little bit, and then bam, love conquers all, and they are back together. Meh.

Take the murder plot. Like, oh no, who killed that woman who smells like perfume? It wouldn't possible be the perfume company that had a perfume with her namesake, could it? Narrowing it down, who else but the creepy uncle pressuing Scent to steal his boyfriend's scent and told him about the secret Mudan people. So, so, painfully, predictable to the point of boring.

I wish it was deeper... more. The history of the Mudan people sounded so interesting, if only the story would have stayed on them, but instead, they burned their village and shoved us back into the city... which was as interesting as it sounds. Would have loved to see him stay there and see more customs like with the wedding.

As always PearlPeak were perfectly casted for this, though the story isn't anything new, they still managed to bring their characters to life. The side characters were okay, though, what was up with those two random dudes who pretended to kiss in the end? Literally what was the point of them? Sure, they helped him, but these people pretty much didn't add anything to the story as far as I could tell. Oh well.

The father and uncle deserved what happened to them. That uncle was so manipulative, he was this close to ending poor Gaysorn's bloodline. And to think Gaysorn made himself marry into that family. Good luck buddy. And are you telling me, if Scent could easily bland, flowers and grass together to make Gaysorn's scent, this uncle and dad, two expert couldn't smell their way to the scent they wanted like he did? Right. Okay.

Anyway, a nice watch for any bl lovers, give a chance. Looking forward to more PearlPeak, I am still on a Love in the Moonlight high.

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Slow-burn romance between polar opposites, set in the mountain-forests - really beautiful so far

I'm just loving the cute romancing over weibo chats.....and them doing everyday things together in the quiet and beautiful mountain forests...and then, their saucy back and forth, quite intimate glances, restraint despite the obvious attraction, and all that tension...is so delish and refreshing!! The cinematography is stunning and I also love the end-credit song

BL-Needle Score: 8.5. High BL-ness

I'm really liking how this is progressing and yet can not place my finger on where it is going exactly...I'm still a little lost with why Qinglang and Changyang are so familiar with each other, and why Qinglang would let Changyang take such liberties with touching, feeding, caring for him...it definitely doesn't look like what an 'usual' assistant would do ...are they childhood friends or something...but the synopsis says they have just met when Qinglang traveled to the mountains this time.

I'm glued so far. Also glad that iot has 16 episodes, which gives the story enough time to unfold

Verdict: Yes, Watch

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It was okay

I really liked the character from Yu Lei he was so cute and caring. A green Flag for real. But Chen Ke just made everything take longer that it would have needed. It was so obvious that they both had feelings for each other and Yu Lei also made it quite clear that he likes Chen ke so i just dont get why they only confessed there Feelings like 10 minutes befor the ending. Im so happy that they got there happy end but i also would have wished that would have had more time together as a Couple in the Series. I would have loved to see them lovey dovey as a Couple. And for the Atmosphere the Series was supposed to play in the 2000s but nothing in this Series gave us that kinda vibe. Yu Lei even wore a Jacket that was from a brand that was founded in 2014.... I know maybe they didnt had the biggest budget but i dont think that its that hard to not let them wear clothes that arent matching for the time. This series had so much potential it was okay.

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CALLING IT A MASTERPIECE WOULD BE AN UNDERSTATEMENT!!

how do i even start because this is truly a MASTERPIECE in every matter, the acting, the production, the direction, the writing, the screenplay, the music everything is so perfect. how can a show be this good?? DMD outdoes itself everytime, i have so much to express but i just don't know how to put it in words because it was that PERFECT..
honestly if you are having second thoughts whether to start it or not or if you stopped watching after 2 episodes thinking it's slow or something, PLEASE DO CONTINUE IT BECAUSE IT IS THE BL OF 2026!! every episode is another level of perfection and they just raise the bar higher and higher every episode and the finale was so beautiful, it was everything i could ever ask for and also the way they explained everything was so good!!!
i always used to think nothing can top Khemjira for me because it was another level of masterpiece but now i am having second thoughts because i can't decide which is actually number 1 for me, episode 11 especially, left me speechless that what did i just witness?? the way it was shot and the way it was paced was another level of perfection.
ABOUT NETJJ, NEED I SAY ANYTHING ABOUT THEM?? they are so perfect for each other and their chemistry bleeds through the screen, not even a single dull moment, oh my goodness, the way i love them is unreal and the way i love this series is unreal, the way net acted as p'phop is perfection, the way net shows his yearning from his eyes is just too good and JJ was born to play klao/nakhun because nakhun is JJ in many waysss, i love how their story was paced and honestly i would expect nothing less from P'DEN, he is hands down THE BEST DIRECTOR for me, netjj has come to my top 3 bl pairs after this and as they should havee!!!
i love how they didn't ignore their second leads and gave them an actual good pacing and story throughout the series and i agree in some episodes their screentime was less but honestly it was for the good because they weren't that much related to the mystery and it was nicely paced till the endd!!
ALSO IF YOU ARE NOT WATCHING THIS BECAUSE YOU AREN'T A FAN OF PERIOD DRAMAS, TRUST ME IT'S DIFFERENT, it doesn't just focus on one thing, it's actually really well done and has majority of the scenes related to their story, NOT A SINGLE DULL MOMENT every scene has a purpose.
AND THE WEDDING IN THE LAST EPISODE WAS EVERYTHINGGGG, I WAS CRYINGGGG
coming to nc scenes, we know how beautifully dmd does nc scenes and they are so wholesome, all the nc in this series is so beautiful and doesn't look like that it's done just for the sake of doing it, like how do i put it, it feels so ethereal, their chemistry bleeds through the screen!!
i have yapped stuff randomly, but to conclude,
CALLING IT A MASTERPIECE IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT BECAUSE IT IS MORE THAN THAT!!
DMD HAS DONE IT AGAIN, THEY HAVE MADE ONE OF THE BEST BLS EVER... AND IT WILL BE DIFFICULT TO TOP THIS!!

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The provided masterpiece offers a profound sense of comfort, serving as a vital emotional anchor during remarkably challenging times. The depth of the narrative and the brilliant execution of the series provided a sanctuary, allowing for a temporary escape from personal hardships while instilling a renewed sense of resilience. It is a rare work of art that not only entertains but also deeply heals the soul of its audience.

At the core of this appreciation is the magnificent portrayal of affection and connection within the storyline. The narrative captures a rare, transcendent form of love that feels incredibly pure and genuine. For an individual who may never personally experience romance or intimate companionship in this lifetime, witnessing such a beautiful bond on screen offers a profound sense of vicarious fulfillment. It bridges the gap between reality and aspiration, providing a complete emotional experience through the journey of the characters.

Rather than generating a sense of longing or despair over the absence of personal romance, the series evokes a deep state of contentment. There is an unexpected peace in realizing that one does not need to possess something firsthand to appreciate its beauty or understand its power. The masterful storytelling allows the audience to feel the warmth, loyalty, and devotion inherent in true love, making the concept feel accessible and real.

Ultimately, this work stands as more than just a media production; it is a significant emotional gift. The creator succeeded in fashioning a universe where love transcends the screen and offers genuine solace to those navigating isolation or adversity. For the profound comfort, the joy, and the beautiful perspective on human connection that this series provided, the audience remains immensely grateful.

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The typical toxic chinese BL with a twist...

How to rate this? On one hand I despise the story, on the other hand it was done so perfectly. Of course I'm a bit sick of all the toxic chinese BLs because, do we really need that much toxicity? Is the world not toxic enough? As far as I can tell, the toxicity level was reduced compared to the first installment and the novels, on the other hand the scenes where Lu Feng is holding Yi Chen captive and abuses him are very painful to watch.

And then Yi Chen is also sick - with Stockholm syndrom - and deciding to stay with Lu Feng in the end. But of course he decided against him first because he is the knight in shining armor to protect the love of his brother who also happens to be gay. Of course his family did not help. At least his shitty father had the decency to die in a rage outbreak, but his mother still insisted that he would marry. And because Yi Chen is Yi Chen he does what his mother wants, even when she also dies soon after. Why the woman who loved him, did marry him, knowing he is gay, is beyond me. So it seems she is also sacrifing herself. But at least they get a divorce and because they changed the script, they don't have a child, so there was no intimicy whatsoever.

It's a bit sad, that we have always such characters especially in BLs. Yi Chen sacrifices himself - for what? Lu Feng was driven mad and due his medical condition, it escalated. At least in the finale we get the medical reason why Lu Feng did all the shitty things he did, which is neither in the book nor in most other toxic BLs. His dipolar disorder - also formely known as manic depression - at least explains a lot. He was a maniac for sure. Xi Chen did the only reasonable thing and forced him to get the treatment he needed for more than ten years.

Production quality was of course top notch and the OST was excellent. Acting was also very good for me. So, as usual, everyone who has mental issues should definitively not watch this series. At least with Yi Chen brother and his lover we got the typical fluffy BL stuff many wish for but only in limited quantity. Watch at your own peril!

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