Living up to the expectations set by a highly sucessful first series is a big challenge. This sequel did well. However, I am still emotionally attached to the first series. But by itself, this sequel deserves all the thumbs up.

The writer did very well with stirring up emotions in both series. Her literary poetic style is very appealing.

However to nitpick: imaginative medical and toxicological conditions take the shine away and made the script sound like children fairy tale - need something more realistic for future stories. Generally I do not like the old school Chinese music style of loud coarse and harsh tone - the second ending theme song would be perfect if that part can be smoothened over. Also the dances look awkward, not sure how much really reflect the style of that age.

The romance between Lin Xi and Pingjing paled in comparison to the tragic setting of Lin Shu and Nihuang, and the strong emotional display by Hu Ge and Liu Tao. But the happy ending is great.