This is a well balanced period drama that threads wit and humor, action and fighting scenes, politics and family feuds, birth secrets and gender-bending all mixed in one. The plot and storyline weaves, ebbs and flows and one crisis is resolved only to lead into another greater one before the end of each episode which keeps you wondering what will happen and how things will be resolved next. Thank goodness there isn't a lot of drag in this drama, and the focus was on the main characters instead of depending too heavily on 3rd party conversations. The characters in this drama are dynamic and interesting in their own way, especially the main female lead. I appreciate that she stays true to her character throughout-Fearless, loyal, impetuous, and kindhearted, yet crafty. I enjoyed that many of the women in this drama more than held their own place, and were independent, loveable, and strong. The characters and their unique yet strong personalities blended quite well which made this drama seem to go along much smoother and pleasantly for the viewer. I liked that the drama was upbeat, even though there were life and death crisis after crisis. I hardly felt I was watching a period drama, and would highly recommend it.