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.

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I've thoroughly enjoyed this drama but really did not foresee that ending. It's safe to say I don't usually watch many historical dramas (especially chinese ones) as I can't usually get into them but after watching only one episode of Nothing Gold Can Stay I was hooked and eagerly staying up till 2am awaiting the next 2 episode's release. I also don't watch Chinese dramas due to their lengths, I'm the type of person who usually has to finish the whole show unless it's really unbearable to watch and 60+ episodes can be daunting. Long dramas can also be a little dragged out in some parts due to the need to produce a large number of episodes but with Nothing Gold Can Stay I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of each episode and the plot, in this sense it was a much better drama than the widely popular, Eternal Love.
Overall, after watching the final episode and not realising it was actually the final episode (changed from listed 75 eps to 74) I have to say I wasn't too happy with the ending but the drama is for sure extremely well made and in my top 5 dramas of all time. If you're looking for a drama with more depth, a little romance and a smart, independent heroine I definitely recommend this one!

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