I saw too much negative comments about this show but I think actually this drama deserve more praises. It had great potential but sadly, it was not perfectly executed, and what make this worse is that it had good promotion as if it's going to be a masterpiece so the viewers had high expectation but turned out the show could not meet those expectation.

As I said before, this show has great potential, the storyline about royal family problems and all those conflict with pyunsoo group were quite believable for me at some point. I have no complain regarding the main plot about how the crown prince grows to be a good ruler for the country. But I found too much unnecessary love dilemma along the story and it becomes annoying at some point. I did not know that story of love actually can ruin the show to this extent. well I actually a sucker for romance but the romance here is not appealing for me. Ok, that was all the negatives I can mention about this drama. Now, let's talk about the good things.

First, we should not miss how the writer make a dynamic character for this story. Almost all of the characters showed nice development over time and they really grew, they showed various emotions, had both weak and strong side and made me pay attention and root for them (I love all four lead characters here). This drama is combination of well written characters and great actors, in this term I'm so thankful they cast these actors. I am a fan of Kim So Hyun and I knew she can do much more than what she showed here just like what everyone complained but at the end I kind of understand that she played a strong and steady character, not the one that stand out much and it was not something we can ignore. As for Yoo Seung Ho, through this drama I discovered that he is indeed charming and so lovable. I'll definitely going to check his future project. That also applied for L. I've known this guy ever since his debut with infinite and among all of his drama, his acting here was the best, I am truly impressed, he finally become real actor *tearsofjoy. Hwa Gun is my favorite here eventhough Yoon So Hee was a bit off in portraying her character. For me Hwa Gun's character was not about obsession since she still care for her father, not just her love interest. She shows how a daughter/granddaughter can also make decision and take action based on her judgement. She was the true definition of cool and influential second lead for me.

Second, the production team put a lot of effort in making this. Aside from the good cast, we can also tell from first glance that this is not a low budget drama. From the setting, properties, cinematography and everything about this drama were not done half hearted. It was beautifully made, including the soundtrack. From what I knew, they released 17 ost for 20 episodes drama and those 17 songs were delivered by talented musicians. Among all the good things bout this drama, the fact that it has 17 ost was my favorite, especially because my favorite singer Hwang Chi Yeul and Yoseob lent their voice.

Lastly, I will say that I really enjoyed this drama despite the plothole and partly unconvenience story line. To be honest, of all drama I watched at the same time, this is the one I am most looking forward to each week. (probably because I did not watch a lot of saeguk so this story is new and original for me)

overall, I still recommended this drama but don't set your expectation too high.

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