I originally didn't start watching this drama till around 40 episodes or so had been aired as my friends all couldn't seem to stop raving about it. I'm glad I did though because this drama is hands down one of the best I've ever watched (within my top three). I'm not completely fluent in Chinese so am aware I might have missed minor plot details throughout but even so it was worth watching and I may re-watch when the episodes have been subbed.

This drama is in some ways your typical historical Chinese palace drama which as expected, revolves around rivalry between concubines and endless plots to take each other out of the picture. However, Yanxi Palace provides a less conformative story line with an independent and smart heroine who is loyal to those who genuinely help her and doesn't take BS from anyone (even the emperor). The plot twists within the drama were also unique and often unexpected, when watching I never knew what was going to happen next. It is these minor details that differ it from other palace dramas and make it worth a watch.

I'm sad this is over especially as who knows when I'll next find a drama that can match up to it but I wholeheartedly recommend this drama to anyone who doesn't mind seeing all the male characters with the half shaven head hairstyle (doesn't matter how many dramas I watch, still not a fan) and likes a sassy and smart heroine who stays true to herself.