The only reason I took half a rating off is because I'm an avid novel reader, and having read this in its original form, I feel that there are some aspects missing.

In saying that, taking this drama at face value as an amazing small screen production, I would give it a 10/10.

Hu Ge as the titular character expresses and exceptional range of emotions and portrays his characters in wonderful detail. Every minute action adds to the storyline and makes his character all the more alive.

Watching this drama, you can see why Liu Tao, Wang Kai, Chen Long, Jin Dong and Hu Ge are so popular these days.

Mei Chang Su is an amazing blend of intellect, restraint and emotions that draws you in not for his amazing martial arts prowess but his considerable ability to remain calm in the face of any eventuality. He has a plan for a plan for a plan.

Some will say that Liu Tao is not strong enough as the female heroine, or that she spends too much time pining after her Lin Shu gege, but I say that she is just the right blend of longing and inner strength for a woman who knows not the fate of her love.

The one thing I would say that I dislike about this drama, is the amount of time Wang Kai spends crying. Based on his character, one would hope for a more resilient and emotionally strong individual (which he normally is unless you start to mention Lin Shu...which considering the drama is about Lin Shu...well...).

Definitely give this drama a go. It's one of the best that I've seen in a long time and the production value ensures that if you're not satisfied with the story, at least you'll be satisfied with it's visuals.

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The titular character is played by a fairly unknown actress, but after watching this, you'll think you're seeing her everywhere. Played by Jing Tian, Ban Shu comes from a 'tribal' life, even though her father is of the capital. Raised without his influence or his family's backing, she begins her journey to finding her true heritage by taking part in the palace's school for female etiquette.

Her first meeting with her 'brother-in-law' (husband of her cousin), Wei Ying, starts them both off on bad footing. Due to the way that she was raised, Wei Ying (played by Zhang Zhe Han, who also portrayed the young Lin Shu in 'Nirvana in Fire'), has ill feelings towards her culture due to his belief that they left his wife to die.

Over time, their feelings of mistrust and disdain turn to friendship...and maybe even something more. However, instances arise that make this road a bumpy journey.

The drama is full of comedic misunderstandings, mainly caused by Ban Shu, as well as emotional rollercoasters of love, life and family.

The love aspect of this drama is clearly present, but isn't so overpowering in the sense that there is constant love rivalry. Everything works itself out in a timely manner, and audiences can be assured that they won't spend most of their watching time wanting to pull their hair out.

Ban Shu Legend has been toted as the younger sibling (but I believe more like cousin) to The Legend of Lu Zhen. In terms of the period setting and strong female heroines. I can see the similarities, but I wouldn't recommend watching this drama if you're hoping for another Lu Zhen.

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