This is my first harem drama. I did not read the synopsis and I dived right in.

What I liked about the drama:

• Sets - Wonderfully done. They are very beautiful and felt realistic.
• Costumes - I was curious about the fashion so I researched it. Even the make up was historically accurate - the partial lipstick and thin eyebrows were the fashion.
• Acting - My favourite acting was Charmaine Sheh (Consort Xian). She played a vulnerable, yet strong character so well. Her expressions were amazing. She was also my favourite character. I emphasize with her so well. She wanted to be the kind, and good but circumstances had to make her tough.
• Empress Xiaoxianchun – she was a very kind empress.
• Fu Heng. He’s perfect.

What I didn’t like

• Length. I wish it was 10 episodes less. I think the Chenbi story arc wasn’t necessary. At that time, I felt it start to drag. The last 2 episodes were good though.
• Emperor – he is smart, but I didn’t like his lack of love towards his harem. He was so petty over Wei Ling Luo. He’s so damn cold.
• Sometimes, things just felt too convenient for Wei Ying Luo.

It was entertaining. I wouldn’t watch it for the romance, because I really disliked the romance. I started it thinking the romance was going one direction and it went another direction. This is more of a political drama and it’s about a strong female lead outwitting her opponents. The sets and costumes were well done. I just thought it dragged a little towards the end, and wished they kept it around 60 episodes.