This is one of those deeply problematic, guilty-pleasure shows that I keep coming back to even though it is riddled with problems. The pacing is poor, the plot sometimes goes in circles, character behaviour is wildly manipulated for plot purposes and it has some troubling scenes (especially toward the beginning) depicting aggressive behaviour from the male lead that is shown as romantic.

The relationship between the leads is toxic in the beginning -- the male lead displays stalkerish behaviour, intimidates the female lead into kissing him, frightens her (the, uh, balcony scene anyone??) and forces himself on her. This behaviour doesn't continue throughout the show, but it did leave a bad taste in my mouth. The idea that that is an okay place to start a romance from, and that the man wouldn't eventually go back to using those tactics if he didn't get his way, is really damaging. Even if later in the drama their relationship actually feels very positive and honestly, healthy, that still doesn't excuse the beginning.

HOWEVER. The acting from the leads is mostly excellent and their chemistry is insane. Do you ever just want to watch two very good looking people have sizzling hot romantic scenes for 13 episodes? Then this is really the show you need. They just meld together really well. They simultaneously hit the 'comfortable' notes and the 'palpable sexual tension' notes, which is rare and very enjoyable to watch. Besides, Jasper Liu is one of the prettiest people in the world, so you have that to look forward to.

I also just love the lead actress. Yes, the writing does make her do repetitive circles at times, but I think she brings this rawness to the role that really elevates her from the usual female leads. She actually feels like a person, with goals and feelings and a personal philosophy (really think about it - how many female leads actually feel like a standalone person?). I love her delivery in the really emotional or angry scenes, but also in the more comedic ones. She has a very natural acting style that I think is part of why I keep rewatching it. There's so much bullshit, but at its heart is someone who I can actually relate to and empathize with.

The other issues with the show are very common. I have seen them all before too many times to name (maybe that's part of the reason that I'm forgiving of them and can still rewatch the show - because I'm used to this shit). The plot starts meandering and going in circles, with the same issues seemingly being brought up every single episode. The parts of the plot relating to the workplace are dull and uninteresting. Characters that were relatively normal at the beginning of the show become out-and-out psychopaths to up the drama in later episodes. Finally, the ending is not great. It just sort of... ends.

Overall, not a stellar show. It has a lot of problems and I completely understand why some people don't enjoy it. If you turned away as soon as you saw the balcony scene, you have good taste and are probably right. I do not condone that portrayal of romance on television. But if you manage to adjust your expectations and want to watch something for the hot and heavy scenes and attractive people, I would give this one a shot! Just be warned, there's a lot of bad with the good.