Wow, I loved it!

This series is primarily about a woman who is betrayed by her husband, but it was how she responded to his betrayal that made the story such a satisfying one. Rather than watching a bitter and traumatic struggle...it felt as if we had a ringside seat to one woman's grand awakening. Watching her journey of personal growth was thrilling and those of us who watched it LIVE loved every episode. The writers gave this FL a phenomenal character role and she made this story a stand out for me.

Things I liked...
First, the FL.
Initially, her character appeared a bit subdued. She is beautiful, but she is not a bombshell. But as we watch her, her inherently graceful persona becomes captivating..and contrasts sharply with her husband and his crude and selfish parents.
She was portrayed as a woman who had married young, in a male dominated society, for whom love was of secondary importance. So when he cheated, it might've wrecked her world..but it did not destroy her. Her concern was only for her daughter, and money meant nothing if she could have her.
Her character was so authentically drawn that we believed in her. She was grace under fire and even when she yelled in agony when they took her daughter away and purposefully at the company dinner, she was never out of control. She mistreated no one..not even his cruel parents. She was also unexpectedly kind to both women who betrayed her, and because of that kindness...she gained a forever friend. Her grace not only endeared her to the SML...but also to her employees who would've followed her anywhere. And of course her daughter knew she was loved by her.
Interestingly, the only person who underestimated her was her ex-husband. But once she was backed into a corner..her confidence and determination combined with her keen brain made more her than his match. She was no less kick butt than any martial artist FL we have seen, sans the martial arts. Lol. And every time she succeeded we were elated.

Second, I Liked the SFL.
Her character was not simple nor one dimensional. She was young and a bit desperate ..and she foolishly trusted in lies. However, once she wakes up, she is smart enough to see her mistakes and to learn from them. It is a real and somewhat raw portrayal of the foolishness of women who fall for the machinations of powerful men. To give this woman credit, she is incredibly hard working and she fights hard to recover her self respect......earning mine in the process.

Third...I liked the SML.
This guy is everything her husband is not. He is decent, moral and brilliant. He is also to my surprise quite good looking..I didn't really notice until the scene where he met with the ML in his office and he was wearing this blue top and in the light of the window, his face looked so beautifully chiseled..with a sharp jawline and beautiful lips..... mummm...sorry...got a bit distracted there..lol ...but although he has been in love with the FL since his college days, neither he nor she ...know much about love.
So naturally, he isn't going to tell her how he feels..nope, absolutely not!! But there is no doubt that she has been under his skin from the beginning. There is a scene later on, where she is teasing him..and it makes him so angry that he furiously exits the car. Only she can make this guy that hot and bothered and...oh... it is so lovely watching a man unravel. Lol.

In conclusion, this was a story of contrasts.. love vs lust.. ethics vs corruption. Wrong was uncovered, truth was presented and justice was served. The ML had lived and played without virtue or consequence, until everything he had hidden was revealed.
And as for the FL and the SML ...they had lived as if they were waiting for each other... for them it was an epic new beginning and a brand new Alliance. This series was a joy to watch..don't miss it.. because I promise...you are gonna love it. ❤️

Happy Watching!

Read More

Smokin' Hot Series!

Smokin' Hot Series!

This is pure dynamite @2 episodes in. A blast...of sheer ...unadulterated delight! It feels all the more special....because dang it ...since Lost You Forever, My Journey to You, Alliance and The Legend of Zuohua... it has been a while since we felt so lit..
but.... the buzz baby .....is on!

Things I loved:
First, The ML:
I have been a fan of Sung Hoon since his Secret Romance days...but the general consensus is that his last few scripts could've been better. Thankfully...this script suits him perfectly. Physically...he fits the role. He is a man of substance, broad and big. He is decisive and tough and sure about what he wants....and she appears to be what he wants....but why is that exactly?
Is he a sucker for girls in crisis..or is there a mystery? I am betting there is more to the story. Lol.
But he meets her and she needs a savior..so he rescues her ...and then... presumably he is gonna take her home?
Oh yeah.....it seems like the plan...but it was the way ... he did all of this ...that made it the stuff of dreams.
And please ...notice my restraint as I haven't even mentioned his kisses.... lol.

Second: The FL:
I love this FL..she has been oppressed by her very powerful family and has accepted that as her fate...but an important event has jarred her wide awake... and like any prize fighter...she came out smacking her gloves together and did not wimp out once the buzzer rang! But now.... the fight is on. Because they will be coming for her and I am expecting a dirty fight. But I am laying odds on her and I want ring side seats for the final smack down! Yippeeee

Third: Fizzy Fun:
Yeah, I know this is a completely nonsensical review....but it was so dang fun to watch and sometimes you want something that will make you smile. This one gave us some great moments..for instance, when the two leads were in the hotel lobby and he stood up and put his arm around her shoulders and they walked off to the elevator together...that was the bomb!
Especially since nasty sis is watching with her mouth open.....you gotta love that! And we did!
And when he asked her why she wanted to marry him...and she told him...he smiled and said that is what I needed to hear...
and I am thinking ...really? Revenge is a good reason?
 But I am guessing he wanted her honesty and he got it. So unexpected dialog... that made us believe.
But the best part was how he saw her at her worst (any other guy would be running for the door, right?) but he ignored all of that..and knelt to give her a flower ring! How cool is that? 

And then she misunderstands and impulsively kisses him .....and banged his mouth, hard. Afterwards embarrassed she is frantically waving her arms everywhere and that felt so instinctively legit.
And....ummm... .there might've been a few more kisses afterwards...can't really remember that part....lol.


I am loving the trend of strong FL's like the one we just saw in Alliance...who not only fight back against those who have betrayed them, they also get their zest for life back. It is early for a review but this will be a short series at 12 episodes, and I promise I will be back to update...

@4..It is proving as exceptional as we had hoped it would be., and if we thought it was a simple romance ...we now know better.
This writer is good and the story is much more complex than we first thought.
And those deep cracks just beneath the surface of both families? Well, something is gonna break things wide open.

@7 Hard to imagine..but this series is getting better. There are ppl who say well, it is just a soap opera..but I hate soap operas. This is NOT that! This is clever and inventive writing...with heartfelt, butterfly inducing, rock your socks kind of fun.

@8...Wow, some emotional moments in this one. The scene with her cooking teacher (mother? savior?) was perfect.
And when she met with her long lost housekeeper and they wrapped their arms around each other and held on......
I felt sudden tears.
And if you cook as I do to show your love for others....then the scene with her cooking for his grandmother was especially meaningful and poignant.. It felt as if she was pretending she was her granddaughter for real. Very intuitive and lovely writing..

And the morally bankrupt mom and daughter ahh... well they can't help themselves...they just keep plotting.
But her ex at least...has seen the light!!! That is a good thing, cause he was wearing me out. Lol.
I am counting on gramps and bodyguard...to save the day in the courtroom....
So fingers crossed everybody... this is gonna be fun!

@11 Wow, another marvelous episode. And the thrills keep coming and it ended with another curve ball. This has been so wonderful, gonna be sad when it is over and yet because it was so short, it seemed power packed and I loved it. We are on our tippy toes..and loving every minute!

@ Final: I don't know how they did it, but they pulled off a spectacular series and the wrap up was to die for. Not one boring minute in the entire series. It was good to the last second. Do not miss this one!

Happy Watching!

Read More

Unexpectedly Captivating!

This series is from a web novel, which (in my view) often portends good things. I confess, it was a surprise to me, as I was expecting something lighthearted, rather than the very impactful way in which her story is told. There are comedic moments..such as her first ever revolving door and her first taste of ketchup…lol…but it is also very affecting as well. 



Lee Se Young stars as Park Yeon Woo, who lives in 19th century Joseon. Her father is the Minister of the Interior. He is a kind man who adores his only daughter and gives her enough freedom that despite the constraints on women in the 19th century she has some independence. Her relationship with her parents, her friendship with her maid, and the story with her grandfather and the crepe myrtle tree were very touching.

She is portrayed as someone who is dauntless and strong willed. Happy as she is, she sees no need to marry, but her parents have other ideas, lol. So to please them…she finally agrees to marry a man she doesn’t even know.
To her shocked delight… her groom Kang Tae Ha (played by Bae In Hyuk) is a man she has briefly met and liked.
Unfortunately for him and for her…he will die on her wedding day.
His mother angrily blames her and has her kidnapped and thrown down in a well, where she will travel to modern day Seoul.
She will surface in a hotel swimming pool where she will be saved from drowning by her dearly departed husband Kang Tae Ha. 
He of course has no memory of her and thinks she is deranged. However, he realizes she might be his chance for an immediate wife. So he convinces her to play the role of his wife for one day to please his grandfather.
Since Kang Tae Ha is portrayed as an emotionally detached, arrogant, chaebol heir..he sees nothing strange about using her for a day, paying her off, and assuming he will never see her again. But Fate ....has another plan. 



Things I Loved:

The Script: Even though time-slip romances are nothing new..still in this one...the time travel element was imaginatively well done. 
The storyline is also unexpectedly absorbing and appealing.
The Cast: Already, both leads are proving to be irresistible to watch. She is no stranger to most of us…having performed beautifully in several well-loved dramas such as The Red Sleeve and The Crowned Clown. She is mesmerizing in this one.

So if the script continues as it has begun, this series will be a ten, I cannot wait for the next episode and I am not alone. According to Nielsen Korea, this series scored an average nationwide rating of 5.6 percent for its first episode which is a great start, especially as there is stiff competition during this time frame, so we will see if they can keep pulling that off week after week.
Personal Note: I submit early reviews..because after much consideration, I realized the first thing I do when starting a new series is read the boards and reviews for clues. Reviews are a tool to help viewers decide whether or not to watch a series.
So in my view, early reviews ..have merit. Lol. My sincere apologies if that offends anyone.
But here is my promise to you. I never post a review without follow up. I promise ..I will be back to update this review, and be prepared...the rating may up or down as more episodes come in..
For now, this is a recommend...it has the potential to be very good.

@3..Really fascinating episode. Our watch party group had a blast with this one..it was funny, a touch whimsical and very affecting. And our ML...well, he is still a bit confused about her, but that is changing. Already he is having heart palpitations..only these are the good kind.

@6 This series is breathtakingly good and both leads are giving us a heck of a performance.
Their success however, would be nothing without a good scriptwriter...and this script has delivered the thrills.
There are funny scenes i.e. her learning to "curl" like an Olympian with the mop and robot vac...and some really tender and romantic moments such as when they got caught by the lawn irrigation and fell together in the wet sheets.
There are twisted characters with some sinister moments, all of which add up to very solid series.
I mentioned the ratings above...well, it has surpassed those numbers by almost double digits...
Nielsen Korea, MBC’s says for the 6th episode, it reached a new all-time high of 9.6 percent.
So ....pretty crazy numbers which tell us how good the viewing audience believes this one is.

@8 Riveting episode...loving this ML..what a surprise he has been...and notice by the last two episodes...his stylist gets his hair styled right...lol. the messy look is perfect and wow...he is a lot more handsome than first thought.
Also, there are new developments in this series... no one is easy to read, least of all, gramps, his character is complex.
But the romance is sizzling along...and the skinship is natural and lovely.

@ Final: I enjoyed this series. Loved the two leads, they are both wonderful together. Lots of kisses....however, I took one star off because it did a bit of a dive after episode 8 and some of the initial magic was lost. Full disclosure...some viewers are ambivalent about the ending..I thought the ending was fine. But despite these issues..overall it was a very enjoyable series.
Both short and sweet.

Happy Watching!

Read More

A Tale of Dark Obsession vs Courage and Redemption



This series by mutual agreement is proving to be the most captivating of all we are currently watching. And there are at least 5 serious contenders at the moment. So if period/costume series are your genre......do not miss it. I promise you will adore it.

It is primarily about one woman named Jiang Xuening (played by Bai Lu) who had an overwhelming and insatiable lust for power. Her obsession became her downfall as it ended up destroying her and all of those who had trusted her. She was so focused on her quest to become the next Empress, that she scarcely noticed the trail of destruction behind her. 
She had but one goal…and whatever it cost, that she was willing to do. But once she had achieved the position she had sought...there was little joy. 
Her ruthlessness had gained her few allies and multiple enemies. 

But of those who had once cared for her...there was one man, a very disillusioned man named Zhang Zhe
(played by Wang Xingyue) who because of her ...now awaited his death in prison.
Still she carried on...until the palace, roiled by unrest, became her prison too.
With the loss of her freedom, she realizes she has only one card left to play. So she strikes a deal with Xie Wei (Zhang Ling) to save Zhang Zhe from prison. If he will agree..she will offer her own life as collateral. When he agrees... she took her life. 

But by a strange twist of events…she awakens later in her family home… only as her much younger self. 
After the shock wears off, she realizes she has been given a second chance at life. This time she purposes she WILL make all the right choices. 

So with the benefit of her past as her guide…she attempts to change her future and her fate. This is her story of redemption. 



It is played by a stellar cast:
*Bai Lu as Jiang Xuening is utterly captivating...acting dual parts flawlessly. 

A role this complicated and the focus of so many scenes required a especially skillful actress, and wow, is she ever the one!

*Zhang Ling as Xie Wei is a very complex character....shaded by both light and shadow. 

We loved him in My Journey to You, but this more challenging role highlights the range of his talent. 

He is leaving it all on the table in this one, after this..he said he hopes to do a modern series as this one took a toll on him and I believe it. 
He is so sinister at times…that the nape of my neck tingles, yet he can wordlessly look at her with such care..that my toes curl. 
He conveys an element of mystery (never giving the game away) and a masterful presence that suits the dangerous setting of the court. 
The scriptwriter deserves props for giving him such a wonderful role but... in my view ...he is outperforming expectations.
 By far, he is the most fascinating male lead in any series that I have seen in a while. 

I simply cannot wait for the fireworks between them...one hug was mesmerizing. He understands her, because he is her match.

*Wang Xingyue as Zhang Zhe is also riveting. I don’t typically fall for the SL and I did not expect that anyone could compete with Zhang Ling in this one. Yet somehow….Wang Xingue manages to do just that. His face is fascinating. And because the chemistry between him and Bai Lu simmers every time they meet that also seems tantalizing. Lol.
But although he is an upright and honorable man, it doesn't appear that he is right for her. Even if he loved her..it is doubtful he could understand her. 
They are vastly different in every conceivable way.

Both men are beautifully defined with strengths and weaknesses, but neither are perfect.
They are complicated and mysterious men which makes them oh.... so.... fascinating to watch! Lol.

So here is your setting for the story…and as always I will be back with an update.


Enjoy..this one is gonna be one to rave about!

@Final: This series was epic to the end. The wrap up was perfect, I couldn't fault one thing. I even loved the brief modern scene with the writer where she opens the door and there he is. Perfect tiny tidbit. Likewise...I loved the special episode they included at the end and the behind the scenes were fun as well.
It is clear that this entire cast enjoyed each other and that bonding on set..contributed to the success of this project. Congratulations to everyone involved in this beautiful drama, thank you for all the thrills, the laughter and the tears..it was a wonderful experience. I am happy to recommend this series to you. It will immediately go in my fave rewatch list.

Happy Watching!

Read More

Tantalizing Encounters at Knight (Lol)

For Yeo Hwa (Honey Lee) life is extremely narrow. She is locked away from the outside world, her beauty covered in voluminous white fabric and her every movement spied on and scrutinized every day...which makes it all the more shocking to see how she gets around at night! She has more of a nightlife than any avid bar hopper on vaca in Paris.

Her life took a dreadful turn when she married into the Left State Minister's household. They are among the wealthiest and most powerful families in Joseon. Her father-in-law has deadly secrets and a consuming lust for power. Her mother-in-law is a cold woman..enamored with her own reputation. They plan to use Yeo Hwa and her widow's piety to gain them prestigious rewards, thus they are determined to control her every thought.
But Yeo Hwa cannot be controlled. She appears as innocent and obedient as she is commanded to be...yet juxtaposed against that pale version of herself is a woman so vibrantly alive, it is impossible for her to go unnoticed.
She is fearless and capable, her keen brain focused on staying just a step ahead of her jailor's.
Thankfully, she has found an outlet for her pent up life, and she expresses it by saving others. And because she doesn't live in the main house...she is allowed a few precious hours to be herself. Without thought for her own safety or exposure, she throws off her white robe to don a black one and leaps over the wall for her latest nocturnal rescue.

What I Love:

The FL. Honey Lee.... as Yeo Hwa
She is not just a pretty face, she is also a very gifted actress. Her height and strength only add to the authenticity of her role in this series. She is a feisty heroine and a very entertaining one. Her funny bone must be natural because it makes its way into her roles often. It is a welcome relief here as mourning is a deadly serious business to this family. Ppl have complained about her age...but she owns this role perfectly in my view. I love this trend of strong and capable female leads.

The ML. Lee Jong Won....as Park Soo Ho
Naturally for our mistreated and precious FL, there must be a gorgeous ML, right? And oh my...Lee Jong Won is perfect. If this is your first time watching him as it is mine...I predict you are gonna love this guy. I am also loving his role. As Park Zoo Ho, he is this very calm masculine man, capable of handling his enemies without breaking a sweat. He is unflappable... until he meets her. And despite her being covered from head to toe... she makes a shocking impression on him anyway. He is so drawn to her...that he feels compelled to save her from herself. Maddeningly aware of the risks she takes, he nearly unravels trying to protect her, in fact, his arms often end up around her ...just to help her of course. Lol.

So a very fascinating start to a tantalizing series, one I wholeheartedly recommend.
As always I will be back to update you.

Happy Watching!

Read More

Epic Series-S1

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!

Read More

Slow But Lovely Series!

Update Below...
@6 episodes in...here are the positives: I am invested in the story and I want to know where it is going. I love the cast..some of which should have a lead role themselves and in some cases do. I also adore both leads...and they are terrific together. The mild tension between them is interesting..and I am betting that will heat up as the love story is developed. I am also enjoying the side characters and backstories.

However....if you have read any of my reviews you know .....I can get pretty amped over the series I like. Lol. So why am I not over the moon with this one? I feel as if I should be...it is Dylan Wang, right? But the plot is perhaps the weak link, it is lacking something that would make it utterly captivating.

It could also be that Didi has set the bar pretty high with his convincing performances in period/costume series. The fantasy/historical character roles are in his wheelhouse..and he seems most comfortable in that setting. This is the first modern romance that I have seen him in (thanks to you who have read this review and have recommended The Rational Life) but I confess in this one...I am missing his smile and swagger. This is purposefully done at the directors request..as he is making the point that this is a very serious guy. Notice the glasses, grrr. Lol. And I can't deny that watching a stoic CEO fall to pieces over a girl is lovely .....still they have given him very little range so far. I am hopeful this will change as the story moves along. Fingers are crossed...but full disclosure here...the rating may go up or down. For now it is a recommend.

@14...This series has developed so slowly that some have given up...and I do think some of the nuance in the dialog has been lost in translation. I appreciate the hard work of subtitling ..but it is an imprecise process that requires fine tuning. There was a scene with him ordering her a cake at dinner, after her texting that had a lot of meaning..but no one knew..it was obscured by the translation. So expect that. Also, despite my earlier remarks about the plot, remember this is a veteran screenwriter who deserves props for past successes, so taking a chance that she will surprise us again. Plus even without Didi and Bai Lu...the rest of the cast are so fabulous that there are sweets to savor along the way. ❤️

@17...This ep was my favorite so far. The leads are getting closer and there are tantalizing hints of more to come. I also am enjoying the cast... I like his niece and her potential love interest. Some think her too young at 22 but nah..she is old enough. She is adorable ..but in my view so dang oblivious. She pursues him so relentlessly that I wince with each rejection....but when she finally hesitates he is so disconcerted that he goes looking for her..so go figure...lol.
I also like her best friend, some do not. It is true, she has hard edges and she drinks too much, and despite being the life of the party..she isn't happy. She knows about dating...but nothing about love. She hates feeling vulnerable, so she hides her real self from him, but he is figuring her out anyway. Lol. Ahh have I mentioned how fine he is yet? Wait until you see him in this one...

@28 As expected..this series has had its critics. We could summarize the complaints by a lack of progress..and too much repetition. Those things bother ppl. If a phone call interrupts a private moment once..we say "oh, my" but if it is still happening by the 26th ep..we are saying "you have got to be kidding me" right? So some complaints are valid hence my rating.

@30 Wow, their relationship has long left the rather dry and fake segments we saw early on. Currently their feelings are deep and painful but because they are..that tell us more accurately the true state of their hearts. Often when ppl find it hard to express themselves..it takes a volcanic shake up...to open up. My guess is that the anguish we have seen in 30 was a prelude to a much needed heart to heart. It is coming...I can feel it.

@33-34 Some folks say she is behaving childishly, and I agree, it looks dang childish..from the outside in....but actually it is pretty natural. Shuyi playing, her demand for attention...this is common to lovers. Because when the love is new, emotionally there is a huge swing...so the need to test each other is real. The rush of emotions..causes both lovers to act out of character. Love can turn reasonable ppl into mush!
When he feeds her...(he knows she can feed herself) but he is reassuring her that she is important enough to be babied. Her insistence on attention...is not really the issue...deep down..she is saying...do you love me...really? And when he fixes her hair...he is saying...yes....I really love you! So some very intuitive scriptwriting.

In conclusion: Slower...means gratification is delayed, but it will come. So in a minority here...but I am feeling cocky anyway. Confident that those of us who wait for the final will be satisfied. So let's wait for it and have a party ...
If you have the patience..I think you will enjoy.

@36 Final: Wow..what a wrap up! It was so good. Please be sure to watch the Bonus Episode!

Happy Watching!

Read More

Intricate Tale of Love, Loss and Obsession

This is a fascinating and intricate tale of love, loss and obsession that spans 1500 years. The script very cleverly and effortlessly weaves its way from the past to the present and I found myself riveted by both worlds.

The man was once Do Ha (Kim Young Dae) an elite noble of the Silla Dynasty. His stepfather Lord Seo (Lee Kyung Young) hated him to his core. He had only one use for his son...in service fighting for the King. And because Do Ha served the King well, he brought Lord Seo glory and wealth. So Do Ha did as he was ordered without caring for his own life. Until he fell for her...the one woman he shouldn't have. Eventually their fated relationship was over as she chose to take revenge for the destruction of her family. So he wandered...neither resting nor forgetting..not even through eons of time. As a vengeful ghost ..he searched 19 lifetimes for her in the hope that he might return the favor. His only problem? He lacked a physical form. So when a top rated Korean celebrity named Han Jun Oh dies.... Do Ha...seizing his opportunity, takes over Han Jun Oh's form.
This is the chance that he has long been waiting for.

The focus of his obsession is Kang Young Hwa (Pyo Ye Jin) but she has no memory of him. She was once Han Ri Ta, a girl from a noble family in the Silla Dynasty. When her family was killed, she became the only survivor and she ends up as a maid in Do Ha's household. A maid that Lord Seo (his stepfather) takes an interest in and that connection between his father and Han Ri Ta the maid...resurfaces in the story of the modern day Kang Young Hwa. KYH is a heroic firefighter whose goal is to become the best firefighter in all of Korea and she is well on her way. Respected by her department and firefighter friends... she mostly dreams about traveling to the Antarctic. But ever so often, she has other dreams ...which are so real they blur the lines between her world and another and those dreams are getting harder and harder to ignore.
Thus these two are set on a collision course and I cannot wait to see where we go from here.

Although it is early in this series...we are sensing this one may be special. And if any of us ever thought that Kim Young Dae was just a pretty face..we have seriously undersold him. He is a very effective and mesmerizing actor. His eyes ...even when his face is solemn speak to a latent mix of powerful emotions, which we can sense and feel. Very difficult to do and amazing when it is done well. He portrays a man who on the one hand, knows he cannot ever atone for what he has done...but on the other...he cannot completely let her go. He pretends that only he is allowed to take her life...however, when the opportunity presents itself, he touches her hair gently instead.
So KYD is playing a very complex dual role and in my view, he is knocking it out of the park.

Likewise..... Pyo Ye Jin is exceptionally gifted ....I would watch her in any series she is in. She is persuasively believable. She is also rather unexpectedly beautiful. But her beauty does not overpower her presence. She is very fun to watch and I find myself smiling when she smiles. She is portrayed as someone who is preoccupied with doing her job well. She also has a strong sense of empathy, and a take charge, kick butt kind of mentality that drives her to take action to help others. That is why when Han Min Oh (On Joo Wan) Jun Ho's brother ...tells her that Jun Ho doesn't have long to live...and that someone is trying to kill him, her protective instincts kick in and she willingly decides to live with him.

So this is the setting for the story and since it promises to be anything but predictable, I encourage you to take a chance on it.
I think you will find it fascinating. I will be back to update as new eps are released...

@Final: Three reminders:
One: If you worry about the ending..don't. It was very satisfying.
Second: If you are afraid of the sadness, don't be. It was tempered by hope, and all of it together the sweet and the sad was very impactful.
Third: Don't stop short, this is a solid ten, perfect to the last second. So don't lose your nerve. Finish it and you will be so glad you did.

In conclusion:
The romance was unique and memorable. A lot of series..we watch and soon forget. This is one ....I won't forget. Not sure how it had so much depth with only 14 episodes, but somehow... they did it. Congrats to everyone involved with this project!
The cast did not disappoint, Kim Young Dae is more adept and versatile with every project. He will be a powerhouse someday..and Pyo Ye Jin is amazing in everything...and together...they rocked it! I felt a bit wishful at the end...wanting to see the young couple grow up together, but wow, what a lovely way to end it with hope.
And I loved the little nod to the title......Moon in the Day.. Enjoy my darlings....this is one to binge.

Happy Watching!

Read More

Triumph of Love

11/12/2022
When I first put this series in my coming soon list, from the synopsis I knew it had the potential to be really good. So far, it is that and more. The ML is carrying this series at 7 episodes in, I suspect he will be the draw to the end. They could have paired him with any FL and if she were competent, it would've worked, he is that magnetic. The writers appear to have written the drama with him in mind or he has tailored his facial expressions and actions to perfectly pair with the script.

He is cast as the rare breed of visionary who sees what others simply can't. The college guy with the brain to see the limits of technology and the foresight to see beyond them. True visionaries are often reclusive because they either lack the will or the skill to develop socially. This ML comes across as someone who is brilliant but flawed. Oblivious to the normal thrust and parry of social niceties, he offends as many as he attracts. His talent is enviable and because of it some will want to own him, others will want to use him, but few will be indifferent to him.
This is a big role for him to play, we will see if he has the acting chops to deliver it, so far at least he is nailing the role.

The FL is pretty, and she is holding her own as his counterpart. I honestly I think she could have been more dynamic but she is the polar opposite of him and that is perhaps enough.
The other ML is a bit irritating but I understand the necessity of his part. Perhaps they will give him more definition as the series progresses.
Some reviewers expressed dismay over the turn the series made from the present to the past when they were young. Series often do this, begin at a later point and then go back to show us the beginning. It is not really the use of flashbacks but rather they gave us a brief glimpse into the future and then the story itself begins.
We will see where it goes from here, but it promises to be a fascinating story. For now, it is a ten.

@16: The FL's mother is determined to control her daughters future and I am pretty sure that doesn't include allowing a boyfriend like the ML, so that probably means the FL will be sent abroad for school. So some turbulence is to be expected with that development but the FL is showing a more daring and determined side to her personality and that is adding huge interest to the story.

@17: Wow. Not gonna lie, I was getting nervous but the writers did it again with a fabulous and highly satisfying episode. ML used his megawatt gaze (he has THAT look down) to perfection here. It was even more mesmerizing because he became the superhero to save the girl. And he did it with oversized confidence and a very masculine and bold performance. Is anyone else loving this guy? He is soooo good. I would love to see him in another series. Props also go to the FL, she is way more interesting than first expected. The second ML is still annoying, lol, I guess that means he is playing his role well. It is funny, I disliked him more in this episode than I did the really bad dude.

@26: Well folks, we made it past the calamity and the stage is set for a comeback. This series is breathtakingly good. It is surpassing every hope we had initially and while it did start out a bit slow, it has developed perfectly. In fact, it has surprised many of us with how well written and acted it has been. This 26th episode marks a change. It has been 3 years and our ML's are stuck where we left them, but the temperature is rising and the ice is thawing. They are working together again and seem ready to kick butt. We are ready for some payback!
So fingers crossed the Flying team will rattle the windows at the L&B headquarters. Oh and for those of you who enjoy skinship, celebrate...there are lots of kisses. And for those of you who are worried about the ending, it is gonna be alright too.

@32 The general consensus is that the series keeps on getting better and better and I have to agree. There has been no drag, it has been frustration free..and everything is coming together in time for the wrap up. Super in love with our ML's. Their romance is captivating...it will only take a spark for it to burn. They are setting this up for a grand finale. Can't wait. It has been a blast. C'mon take a chance on this one. You will be so glad you did. Enjoy.

@Final: Wonderful and satisfying ending. Truly adorable series. Some rough weather, so hang with it, and don't give up until you get there, but it is a triumph of love over hate. Love it. Big ten from me.

Happy Watching!

Read More

Inspirational and Thrilling Series!

@20 episodes in...I am amazed by this series. Every cast member is giving the performance of their lives. We have loved every section of this story and there are many! The cast is enormous...so large you may lose track of faces...so pay close attention.

It is a multi-faceted tale...but primarily it is about the Hua family.
They have been a powerful and prestigious family for many generations. Both grandparents are renown and revered for their character and kindness. Both have led exemplary and very public lives. The family is huge and not only well-known but also well-loved.

That is ...until they lose everything!!
The men are exiled and the women and small children must survive alone. Shunned by the ppl who once sought their favor, this family must learn to endure by themselves with very little help.
It will not be easy to do ...but they will learn.

What I Loved:

The Female Lead: Zhang Jing Yi

Zhang Jing Yi is becoming a major star. Here she plays the role of Hua Zhin who was the grandfathers most beloved granddaughter. She has her grandfathers keen brain so she naturally become his shadow and learned to soak up everything she could. But her independent and dauntless spirit came from her grandmother, who was equally bold and decisive while growing up. Recognizing her granddaughter's abilities ....the grandmother pushes her to take over her role. This group of women would not have adjusted nearly so well if they had not had her. Her character is strong and adventurous and you will love her.

The Male Lead: Hu Yi Tian

Hu Yi Tian is also excellent here. He plays a complex role as Gu Yan Xi who is nephew to the emperor and his incognito role as the head of the security dept. He is watched/brooded over by his uncle, whether because he fears he may become a threat or simply because he likes to control ppl..it is too opaque to see yet......but GYT straddles the line between obedience to his uncle and maintaining his own independence. Not easy to do.. so we will see how that goes. But I am loving his character and the sincerity with which he cares for her is lovely.

Inspirational Watch:

These women will try many things, some will succeed, others not so much....but they will learn from both. Seeing these different women (some more spoiled than others) adapt to these life changes and elect to work and pull together is absolutely stunning. Many scenes are so sweet..that you catch your breath and it brings tears to your eyes. It has been a sincere joy watching this unusual series.

Quick Resolutions to Problems:

I owe this one to a friend rajv...she noticed before I did how lovely that it was that when a problem came up, there was often a discussion and a quick resolution, even between the two leads.
Rarely are misunderstandings allowed to linger...instead it is quickly dealt with. This is a much better plot device than letting it simmer for 5 or 10 episodes causing a great angst in the viewer. So a very refreshing change and we loved that. So thanks rajv!

Trope Less Love Relationship:

Both leads are great together..it has been thrilling to watch them fall in love . All the feels are there...and you will love this romantic part of the story. It is central to the main story, not pushed to one side and it is a very satisfying love affair.

Finally this is a long one @40...but one I think you will find riveting enough to hang with it. I confess I am watching it in a watch party atmosphere..but we like it so well that block off times where we can watch 3 or 4 at a time..is that nuts or what? Lol, but even then we can barely stop. So we are in LOVE with this drama..and I think you will be too.


Happy Watching!

Read More

Stunning Series!

This series was stunningly good with a tight, tight script, an amazing cast, and ample thrills and chills for every romance junkie anywhere. I began it on a whim, because at the time of this review...I was bored waiting for the next episode of Reborn Rich.
I thought "oh what the heck, I will watch 15 minutes of it" and just like that... I was hooked! It was so good, that I could barely enjoy it for thinking oh, no...I have to wait 5 more days for this? You have got to be kidding me!
At first .....it began rather typically, so I was thinking ...ahhh, yeah...so what?
And then...bam...just like that ...I was hooked and frantically began flipping to see....
how many episodes are released so far? Whoa...how many minutes are left in this episode?
You know the feeling, right? When you don't want it to end? When it hits you right in the heart and it feels oh ...so...right.
That is the good stuff.... the stuff of dreams.

Things I Loved:

I loved The Cast:
Kim Young Dae was so perfect for this role, it would be impossible for anyone else to embody it. This guy deserves serious props and not just because he looks good..although can I interrupt this highbrow review to say... how much I love it when he takes off his shirt in this one...ahem...sorry, but seriously... he can act his socks off and after a few more challenging roles he will be a powerhouse someday, I am expecting big things from him.
And Kim Woo Seok...
Does it get any better than this? He was sooo good in this role, that I loved it when he came on the screen. A total delight to watch him in action. So both male leads were exceptional, for reasons unrelated to shirts.
And Park Ju Hyun...
Wow, I loved her! At first I worried her character was one dimensional. Again, I thought hummm...rather typical.
But it didn't take long ...for me to sit up and say ...oh my...this girl is incredible. She was a fascinating study..to see how she looked/behaved differently depending on each scene. I know that sounds weird, so let me explain it like this. At the very end of the second episode, there is a clip of her in what looks like hunting gear, I swear you could look at her in that clip and do a double take. She was intriguing as heck and......I adored her. So if impassive, expressionless leads are your pet peeve,
well, you won't find that here. Lol.
This series had a very solid cast, with truly exceptional talent and at the time of this review..our ML's had just won well deserved awards for this series. They were a delight to watch but wow, were they ever given roles that fit them perfectly.

I Loved The Script:
I can't remember a series where the script has so consistently delivered as this one has. Not one episode was a disappointment. That is a rarity. As I watched other series during the lengthy wait for this one, I realized just how often the scriptwriters disappoint us. There will be a great episode and then a not so great one. It is inconsistently good.

I Loved The Pace:
This series presented the romantic angle differently. Rather than stringing the viewer along for 10 episodes leading up to a single kiss, they have chosen to keep us intrigued and engaged using two things:
First, they used a more daring dialog that was fresh and enticing. Words matter, and when they are provocative and used well they add excitement to a scene. When the dialog is spot on as it was here....it is tantalizing.
Secondly: They generously used intimate moments to keep the viewer engaged.
Instead of a romantic moment here or there..they lavishly sprinkled those ah ha moments throughout.
I thought this pacing of the romance was interesting and perhaps it mimics real life better. As I thought about this..most every romantic comedy that is truly successful uses this formula.. Which means that every episode is rewatch worthy because the thrills are included in every one. This feels more satisfying to the viewer.

Conclusion: (at time of review)
Awwww, just watched the ending and wow, what a satisfying wrap up. How many endings can we say that about?
They left nothing unresolved, where justice was needed, they delivered. Nothing felt rushed and the loose ends were tied up. What a solid 10 this series was! It goes immediately in my rewatch list. I don't think you will find another RC out there like it.
It belongs in the same category as Business Proposal. Both in my view were the best in class for RC's of 2022.
This was a joy to watch, truly laugh out loud funny and catch your breath romantic.
Many thanks to the cast and everyone involved with this project...you lit up our world with your smiles and laughter. ❤️

Read More

Charming Series!

Although My Boss is an understated RC, it is a solid series in its genre just the same. In my view, it is better for example than the current Our Interpreter or the recent Only For Love. Neither series are without appeal..but they are missing some element that would make them a stand out. This series by contrast has consistently delivered. It has a been a pleasure to watch for multiple reasons. There are thrills but without extreme angst. A fun and enjoyable watch ...but absent the frivolous fluff. The release schedule for this series has also added to the fun. Slow releases often negatively impact a drama...yet on this one...they chose to air one new episode almost every day. What is not to love about that? ❤️
Some have complained that it took too long for them to become a couple. I respectfully disagree. Half the fun of any trip is the planning and anticipation, right? So why the rush? Savoring suits an adult palate. Lol. Although the build up is relaxed...it has made this romance feel all the more legit. As if we have a window into a love affair from its conception to its maturity. Besides as viewers, we already know they love each other....even before they appear to know it themselves.

Things I Loved:
The ML, Chen Xing Xu:
The camera loves this guy, I swear he does not have a bad angle. His stylist played up his good looks with clothing that was interesting yet totally fit his quieter persona. And his hair...well, it is really, really nice. Lol.
But more importantly, I really liked his character in this series. He gave a much used stereotype a fresh new take, how that is possible given the many RC's out there I dunno......but he did it. And he did it in such an understated way that it felt authentic. And ummm...can we just take a detour to talk about his chest? Hey!! Don't laugh...his muscles are serious business. Don't believe me? Research it. Lol. But since I am a serious reviewer, you can take it from me darling...his chest muscles are for real. How do we know? Well, dang it...he has the pics to prove it...can you believe? And those pics have dealt a blow to his harshest critics who said that he wore chest pads. Grrr...the very idea! So life in China as a celebrity is tough business....evidently you gotta prove those abs are for real.

The FL, Zhang Ruo Nan:
She is adorable...and I am taking nothing away from her by saying that. She just is. She is not a bombshell, but the more you look at her.....she is gorgeous. She is also very adept at playing her role..it has never been plain vanilla or perky/silly...or one of those pushy females pursuing and being rejected, instead her role feels uncontrived and unusually fresh. She holds her own with a much more dynamic ML without losing a step. She is easily as interesting to watch as he is. I especially love it that despite his strong personality ...she has an equal confidence in herself. She is not led around by her emotions or by his moods. She appears to value her own life independent from his opinion of her. I liked that. I do love strong FL's.

The Setting: The Law Firm
Cheng Yao (Zhang Ruo Nan) is a young and talented lawyer who has bigger ambitions than she has connections. Her biggest problem? She has never tried a case before. So she is in desperate need of a quality mentor. She gets an unexpected chance to join an exceptional law firm, blissfully unaware that her new Boss, Qian Heng (Chen Xing Xu) accepts no one less excellent than himself. He is infuriated with his partner who has hired Cheng Yao. Qian Heng is one very determined guy. He has made a name for his law firm by sheer talent and hard work. His strong desire to succeed means that he will only hire the best, those who don't meet the grade...are fired on the spot. He has carefully built his reputation...as a top notch lawyer who never loses a case. So when he sees that his partner has hired Cheng Yao because he is in love with her sister...he dislikes her on principal. Things escalate further when they discover they will end up sharing an apartment. Both are wary, yet living together has unexpected side benefits. He finds that she is surprisingly good for his mental and physical well being and she benefits from having him to mentor her. So the law firm adds a cool element to the story, the cases and coworkers are interesting and the writers have sketched a mentor/mentee relationship that is turning into a toe-curling romance. For now it is a 10. I will be back to update you.

@20 This series is a gem and if romance is your thing, you will love this one.
@23 I have smiled my way through this series. If you've experienced the excitement of a love affair where all your senses are engaged...you will relate to this one. Watching them feeding each other pizza was such a legit moment that I felt the joy. This relationship has come full circle. He is now the vulnerable one and she appears to be the more mature one. She may not be experienced in love, but she has self-respect (I love that!) so she is no pushover. She is making him work for it and you gotta love that! Update at Final.

Happy Watching!

Read More

Breathtakingly Lovely!

For some of us..when a new series comes online..the first thing we do is read the reviews, even when it is too early to know for sure, so this review is for those early birds like me. But here is my promise....I will be back throughout the series to update both the rating and the review. Pinky swear. ❤️

So what makes this series a potential stand out? Well, for one thing...the two leads. We knew for a while that it was coming..and as I kept reading about it..I was drawn to the ML's body language as he talked and noticed the words he used to describe his relationship with the FL. He kept signaling their compatibility...and how easy they were together. In a teaser for the series..he said “My chemistry with Kim Hye Yoon was so good that it’s indescribable.” He went on to say, “I have complete faith in Kim Hye Yoon, who has a lot of romantic comedy experience. Thanks to her, I was able to act comfortably during filming. I think this will translate well on screen too. Especially in scenes where Sun Jae is emotionally moved by Sol, my heart genuinely fluttered as well.”
As I told my friend..this usually portends some very good things for a drama. The first two episodes are a case in point. They are gonna sizzle because in my view..they just naturally appeal to one another.

What I Love:

The Emotional Connection:

Chemistry among leads is almost an indescribable quality, but while we can't always define it ..we know when it is there and we def know when it is missing, lol. These two leads are connecting on all cylinders and that makes the allurement between them easily discernible. In every scene from the first episode ..both leads pulled at our hearts. As several of us said on the boards this morning..so many scenes had an emotional tug..that tears were never far away. It wasn't depressing ..but rather it moved us and because the emotions were so legit, we felt immediately plugged into the drama.

Kim Hye Yoon:

She is fantastic at emotive acting so this series is def in her wheelhouse. She portrays a woman who suffers a life altering event that all but ended her, until one strangers voice changed her life's trajectory. She is grateful and remains stunningly cheerful despite the many obstacles she faces. Her courage appeals to those of us who have been there...with struggles that required a herculean effort to overcome. Her heart is so softened in sympathy...that when she sees he is a fellow sufferer, her desire to comfort him and give him back the peace he has lost is overwhelming. So watching her work sweet magic on his wounded heart is gonna be so lovely.

Byeon (Byun) Woo Seok :

This guy it goes without saying is dreamy...but there is so much more to him than that. He deserves this role not because he is a star but because he is truly talented. Like KHY he emotes so well that we feel his response without words. I love that about him, his face is so expressive.. When he held the umbrella (mostly over her) getting very rained on and simply stared at her for long moments....his concern and empathy were etched on his face. We felt his emotions as we watched him allow her to hug him for long moments in what was an embarrassing encounter. Most ppl would've pushed her away..but because he felt her distress..he reacted slowly. So he is effortlessly using body language..and a magnetic style of acting which should prove a fascinating watch.

Clues and Connections:

Fun clues that connect the past to the present. Watch for them...you will love them.
Umbrellas, black, blue, yellow. Weather, Eclipses, Rain, Snow.
White candies. Rented Video. Running. A pair of Watches.

Special Moments:

There are so many of these...it is hard to pick a favorite. One in particular that I loved was towards the end of the second episode...while walking directly in front of him, she says " he refused my friend request and he is getting farther away from me all the time...he doesn't seem to want to get close to me" and all the while, he is smiling and zipping backpack up from 2 inches away. So ...many adorable and memorable scenes. I have a feeling there will be many more.

I will stop there as it is early yet (I know) but so far..this is a total recommend. Stop whatever you are doing and run to watch Lovely Runner. I am lovin' it! I dare you to try one episode..you will be hooked!

@4 Update: Outside of a few cut aways in key moments where they didn't later continue where they left off and a few comedic scenes that were extraneous..this series has delivered.
Time travel romances are nothing new...but watching this one is a bit tantalizing as the writers are good at not letting us see around the next bend. They def know how to build anticipation. The sizzle I had hoped for is there, in fact, for a young love story...it is pretty adult in substance. They look as though they were made for each other and the feels are all there.
There is only one problem at this point and that is waiting for Monday and Tuesday. If you enjoy binging a series..this one might be a good choice as you could keep all the details fresh in your mind. For now, none of us can wait...take a look at all the angsty board.
This is fun...join us.

Happy Watching!

Read More