I enjoy this drama thoroughly. The story is, if not totally realistic then at least very beliavable while at the same time keeping the historical romance frame intact.
There are at least 3 strong female characters, 1st one warrior/strategist, 2nd army medic and the 3rd concubine who decided to fight the enemy from within. Not much hate in the harem; female characters have friends and colleagues and they mutualy support each other.
The love story is sweet and enjoyable; I loved the war of wits between the main couple that starts from the 1st episode. Their love grows naturaly and is not forced like in some dramas where you ask youself till the end why the heck does s/he love her/him. The setbacks are reasonable depicted and you feel that portrayed reasons would work for us, too.
Politics and the war are the big part of the story but for me, not overly complicated so they are easy to follow. There are even some traces of social issues (disappointed veterans-turn-bandits). The overall situation of multiple forces fighting for the ultimate power and ever changing loyalties are a faithful representation of the historical period.
Acting is great, not sure whether I enjoy more young couples' lively nteractions or the low-key, full of danger and deceit elder couple of chancellor and his lady.
Looking forward to 24 more episodes and how our main couple with develop and grow in such dangerous times.