The story itself was crappy. The direction, screen writing, production was shoddy. I don't know what the original novel was like, but if it was anything like this, I wouldn't have read it either. That being said, what carried this drama for me and what made me watch it to the end (albeit fast-forwarding through a lot of the fight and political arguing scenes) was definitely Yang Yang, and then in addition, Zhou Lusi, and a fine cast of actors who did a phenomenal job. You liked the good ones, and you detested the bad ones. The interactions were believable and well done.

Some of the reviews made me take a look at the chemistry between the ML & FL - and I am glad I gave it my own chance and didn't follow those opinions. I like how their relationship evolved and there was such an ease of progression in the development of their bond. Without saying a word, they could relay their emotions and feelings for each other. The subtle changes in expression for each of them said so much (if one was paying attention). Some complained about the way the main villain died, but I thought it was pretty well done. Not overdone.

I can't say enough how Yang Yang made this drama work for me. I will watch him in anything (historical romance preferred). In fact, I'd probably watch him simply standing still!