Review 8-27-2022
I began this series as we waited for the finale of Love Like The Galaxy. We were so invested in that one, that when it was over we all needed therapy. Lol. So frankly... I was a really hard sell, doubting any series could be so captivating.
But to my absolute surprise....this one grabbed me from the beginning.

Things I Loved:

The Setting:
This series felt epic, in terms of scope and scale. Breathtaking panoramic scenery with majestic views that seemed endless.
The backdrop and setting were so authentic, that it felt as if we had stepped backwards in time. 


All of which made for a very cool viewing experience.

The Script:

It was amazing! It felt tight from start to finish. There was never a drag and it never felt artificially extended. How many 38 episode series can we say that about? This script is the collective work of some seriously creative people. They wrote side stories that were so lovely and interwoven that I adored every one. The action was heart pounding fun, with just enough fantasy elements to give it a magical feel. 




The Cast: 

The ML.... oh wow, what a surprise Xu Fengnian was. Initially I thought… really... this guy is the lead?
And then suddenly he was so riveting that I couldn't get enough of him and I swear he gets better looking as the drama goes on. Lol. He mesmerized me ...because his face is so dang fascinating to watch. And the writers nailed his part by drawing his character so authentically that it actually felt as if we were watching him grow up. He went from an incapable and frivolous young man.. to a man of such substance and strength, he inspired great trust in those around him. Absolutely absorbing to watch his character growth. 




The Relationships:
The romance between the ML and the girl was understated but no less real or impactful for all of that. What wasn't spoken overtly was conveyed through various actions and expressions that completely satisfied me. I have the feeling they have set that relationship up nicely for the next season. So I cannot wait for that...yum.
But the relationships between the ML, his father and his siblings were probably the best I've ever seen.
Each one was intriguing as heck, but outside of the ML, the father in this drama was my favorite character.
What an incredible performance by this guy... I loved the emotional tug every time he came on the screen. Eerily he managed to be both childish and deadly at the same time. There were many tender moments with he and his son, which should've been reassuring..but there was an opaqueness to his character that I never felt easy watching him. In my view, this drama would not have been the same without the him in it.
But overall, the relationships were so engrossing that I got lost inside the story...which is how we know it is good, right?

In conclusion:
So if you are one of the few who have not seen this one yet..you are in for a treat...but remember that it starts slowly, so expect that and stick with it. I think you'll be pleased that you did. 

 Don't pay attention to the rating. In my view should be higher and it made me wonder if a lot of viewers didn't realize the second season was coming. Thank you to all the other reviewers on this series. There are so many excellent writers... thank you for your solid informative reviews. After 9k+ others there is no need to write this one..and likely no one will see it...but I wanted to add my thanks to all the cast and everyone involved with this project.
Don't miss this one...it is unique.

Happy Watching!