As a preface, I am doing Covid-19 stay at home binge-watching. This is the 4th in my series of catching up on non-period or costume Chinese dramas that have been recommended in the list of the best Chinese dramas. This drama was on the list but the MDL previous reviewers all gave low ratings. It is always my practice to follow the comments and views of others before watching any drama -- this is my first exception and I was punished -- feel like I have buyers remorse. I was punished to the point that I am writing this review to remind others that the opinions of others REALLY MATTERS. I can only repeat what was said in almost every previous review. I am just saying it in the year 2020.

My praise is short - actors did their best with the material.

My criticisms --- Just a shortlist of the obvious:
1. too draggy (story too long)
2. too many repetitive storylines
3. too many flashbacks as fillers
4. story is too illogical
5 story lacks true romance just cruel romances and a "sick" writer
6. story is also poorly edited and tries to use music to bridge the poor editing

Overall I can only give this a 7.00 which is very low for me. A true waste of talent. Still trying to guess why this drama is listed as a TOP 15 Chinese Drama (along with NIF, and very noteworthy historical dramas) for a viewer.