I am not by any means a good writer, much less in english, but this Drama has me in a chokehold that I need to put it into words and hope to find like-minded souls to happily gush about it.

I'm so down bad, I looked for the novel and read it, which I never do.

I am aware it won't be everyone's cup of tea and it definitely won't be the best cdrama ever, acting or plot wise but for me, right now, it is working. 

The series starts with an amazing scene. For me it shows how the ML is the fire that will burn for the FL and will burn the world too.

CiSha is an actor I was completely unaware of (even if I have seen him in Creation of the Gods his role didn't shine) but he plays the older mature and confident ML so well. The character isn't arrogant but has an aura of strong power, like a lake that is smooth on the surface but hides the currents underneath. The character has brains but also strength and his fight scenes are great to watch. Cisha managed to bring to life the calm confidence of the novel character, while also embodying his devotion for the FL

Ren Min looks young which helps a lot in convincing us of a big age difference between her and the ML (in real life just 2 years). Her character is knowledgable but so very young, especially when dealing with Chen YunYan advances .

Their chemistry starts small, curiosity showcased so well even if neither is thinking of the other romantically. Then it hits them. First chen yunyan who paints her unconsciously. This scene is brilliant. He recognised he was falling for her and embraces it. Didn't waver for one second. His patience will allow him to break her reserves about marriage and he will flirt and pursue without coming off as harassing her.

It is just so amazing to watch how their relationship evolves , how misunderstandings are settled swiftly, how the ML protects her and cherishes her personality. Jinzhao grows and recognises all of this. He is a calm presence for her juvenile impetuous nature.

There are massive changes from the novel but the core of their relationship is there. I just hope we see them married and a bit of their bond after. There is a lot of skinship in the novel and their relationship strengthens in whispered conversations inside their bedroom.

I am absolutely looking forward for the next episodes and the development of their relationship. 

A bit sad we are getting a bit too much screentime of the 2ML instead of our pookies but it is the story told from the FL pov and she does have a few suitors. Ye Xian plays a big role also in the political plot and the character does have a redemption and maturing arc that is interesting to watch. I know some people are rooting for him and FL (cause of looks mostly) but I can't see them ever working... 

A splendid match: a pleasant surprise (possible spoilers)