Dramas that are as long as this one, tend to take a while to really get going. And even then you may not be fully invested in the characters for a while longer than that. For me, Nirvana in Fire was no exception to this rule. BUT it was well worth the wait. By the end, I cared way too much about all of the main characters but especially the ML who seriously deserved for the truth to be known. What a journey for them all but particularly for him. I wouldn't say that he was ever after revenge and he wasn't as cold or heartless as I was expecting him to be. He just wanted what was wrong to be set right. And how can you not want that for him when the wrongs were so great and the struggle was so hard. Of course, he doesn't get everything that he (and we) wanted but it was fascinating to watch him as he got closer and closer.

So, it was all quite epic really. And it's very smart. There are a few reversals in the fortunes of important characters that are brilliantly manipulated by MCS. There are moments of so much tension and then pure joy. Really fun to watch.
I was expecting it to be confusing at the start so I sought out a cheat sheet for names and relationships and that was helpful. I also expected it to be funnier from what I read in advance. And it wasn't despite a lot of smile moments. It didn't matter though. This was a brilliant drama in terms of premise, writing, the intricate story arcs, the subtle and realistic characters, their significant development, the firm direction, impressive costuming ... and especially the acting. There are some very impressive performances throughout this drama but especially at the end.

Anyway, I loved it, didn't want it to end and would recommend it to anyone who's willing to pay attention and wait for it until it grabs you ... which it surely will. It's so refreshing to find dramas that are this good.