Today I finally re-read the whole book and am finally able to write a comprehensive review. I saved this book in my library a while ago but just recently had the time to pick it back up, and to be honest it didn't disappoint at all (not that it did before). The start was a bit slow but it quickly progresses to my favourite part aka the romance and harem/political intrigue. The plot is sedate yet exciting, even the other POVs give way to a foreshadowing or puzzle pieces without being boring. YZ and LY are the best part of this novel, hands down. Unlike most romance novels of historical genre, the romance is not that slow like watching water drip from a tap or so fast there is no chemistry build-up. The romance is just right and hits the spot, atleast for me. Their background and angst is just the cherry on the top and helps us understand them better. I like all the aspects of this book which is rare for me in this genre (historical) as I get bored with too much one thing (politics/harem intrigue or romance) but you maintain the balance perfectly. Thank you so much for this book. I can't tell you how much I am looking forward for updates. Your work is amazing and I know the research that goes into this so double kudos for that. P.S. Just a favour(not like the one YZ asked LY lol) but the only thing I had a problem with is keeping up with the names, especially, the Scum gongs and the 6 noble families. If you could make a list of them and any vital character that is important in future without giving spoilers, I would be thankful. I want to know who the fifth gong is lol😂

NH is one stone and as many birds as you can kill type of girl. I think she left not only because it was time but also to kill her enemies, understand original NH's events and also test LQX. She has to do much and being a young miss isn't favourable for working behind the scenes type of actions. She is just being cautious in with both her mind and heart.

it's almost a pattern at this point. With LQ and his grandma, especially, she has foresight and yet she cares which makes her keep reminding herself that it's impossible they could be hers. it's like she is scared to hope

As the mentioned above I also don't think he loved her bf. Rather, I think he broke up because of the deal with his father which not cool either

See this! I just gifted the story: Ice cola

I really liked the story tbh. The characters, the plot and the world building was great. A bit rushed at the end though and I would have liked some extras, just to know the HEA mudane things. A bit of domestic fluff is never a miss! A few things like clarification on Anyue/Sumeng relationship(I did not like the vague 'Perhaps' either), feelings and such after the talk about Xuelan's knowledge of the past life (some of their deep conversations just feel like they are missing parts or seem like lack of communication), some clear cut closures I guess. Many things were just too vague when it came to their relationship. But then again I think the mystery plot made up for it. I did like the fun and teasing conversations between Sumeng and Xuelan. They really had a fun yet deep relationship. This story do have great potential though, a sure read if you like a mystery romance!