Chinese rom-coms can be tropey and full of clichés. Those seemed to come from a well thumbed playbook that have been passed around the writer's guild. While its root is in that muddy pond, this show rose above it like a lotus flower.

Let's be honest, the plot of this show is quite straightforward. There are no big stars nor dramatic breakups. The ending was never in doubt and it was set in a provincial city.

I believe the ML is a newcomer and while he still have some rough edges, his natural presence and energy was perfect for the role. I have, more than once, found myself smiling like an idiot at the screen when he just radiated happiness. The FL is not an A-lister but she have been in various shows. She did very well playing a conflicted soul who was trying to choose between happiness and conformity. The CP has oodles of chemistry and some of their little cute acts were truly swoon worthy (not to mention the real romantic scenes). There is a good amount of skinship and that's because the ML can't keep his paws off the FL. Woof!

The support cast is wonderful. Most are older actors and I have no doubt some were locals. The script did not relegate them to the background but they have prominent roles and fully fleshed out back stories. It was a joy to see their banters, their support and shared wisdom when the CP needed them the most. Their acting were so good that they made you understand why some motifs actually became clichés. The writer really knew how to hit you with the feels. Not dramatic dam buster type but scenes that you can relate to and share their emotions.

BTW, most rom-com will cast the 2FL as the antagonist who will stop at nothing to tear the CP apart. Our 2FL started off like this but by mid show, you began to empathise with her as you get to know her. You will cheer her on and wish her the best by the end of the show. That is an amazing way to write an oft one dimensional character. Bravo, writer, bravo!
I also loved the vignettes of the CP growing up together that start each episode. Some were hilarious and one in particular was heart breaking.

The pacing of the first 3/4 of the show was good. Not rushed but plots were developed and progressed steadily. My only criticism is that the last 10% of the show did coast along. All the sub-plots were wrapped up neatly. Rainbows and sunshine blessed the land. As someone who enjoyed the show I cannot complain but I can see some viewers might find it slow going and a bit of self indulgence.

The OST was great. Worked really well with the scenes. The title track was written specifically for the show and not some generic love song. The production value was generally high and it probably helped that it was not set in Beijing or Shanghai which would have ballooned the production costs.

Not everyone will love this show but if you appreciate a good romance then please give this a go. This is a beautifully crafted romantic drama. You won't be disappointed.

UPDATE: I re-watched this show after a year and I'm happy to stand by my original review. However, after a long discussion with my good friend @Love movies, I have gained more insight into this drama. We agreed that to truly enjoy this show, it must resonate with you and that is not a given. Initially, the Show can feel a bit directionless and some characters are deeply flawed which can be a turn off for some. However, if you preserve, you will find a diamond in the rough. This Show is not about flashy set pieces nor crazy plot twists. It is about relatable people doing their best to find love, happiness and have a meaningful life. There is a lot of raw energies and emotions. I can relate to that and it lifted my spirit.