Yan xi gong lüe

Yet another Chinese costume drama with strong female lead which is thoroughly entertaining. The acting as usual is first rate and the plot which unsurprisingly sometimes sags over the 70 episodes is overall gripping. The story centres on a young girl entering the forbidden city as a seamstress to seek revenge for her murdered sister. To achieve her aims she must use all her wits to progress and find out the truth. Along the way with each step up she meets countless new enemies and challenges.

This drama was gripping from start to finish. All of the characters are fully fleshed out, and it's very easy to root for the protagonist. While attempting to avenge her sister, she encounters many, many enemies; however, she is able to thwart them every time.

Additionally, I would watch it simply for the amazing costumes and setting. The Qing Dynasty era clothing and hair is worth it.

If you never watched a drama series from China this is the one to start with! From the beginning there were lost of shocking twists and turns with beautiful art and costumes. Each one of the actors played the characters very well and you don't know who the true villain is till the end! I wish they would have continued the series in a different network but I know how one little article published can cause negativity. Don't let them censor china history and continue making great stories like this! I'm glad I was able to see this in English subtitles and got to learn a few new words too! Great job to everyone who had a part in this production!

Beautifully outline the story, details are excellent and how different and smartly each cases the female lead came up with unique and brilliant idea of solving them. Love the series and all the across actress in there.

I saw it as an elegant embroidery. Full of beautiful colors, seductive for wise performances and delicacy and generous story and locations and costumes. A historical serie like fresh air. Different, special, seductive, dramatic, beautiful in profound sense.