I’m going to rate this in 2 parts since it has a season 1 & 2.
Season 1: 9/10
Season 2: 8/10
Overall, it is a remarkable series with minor inconveniences.

I know this series was based on actual historical events so they didn’t give us the typical good guys conquer all storyline. You’re not going to get the epic political warfare or battle of the wits in the royal court. It was more focused on the fall of Joseon during the Qing’s takeover. You see more of the heartbreaks from the civilians’ eyes. That being said, there were SO many moments I wanted to just scream and punch my pillow out of anger or just cry in anguish.

If you’re here for the romance. Hang tight. It won’t kick in until episode 18. This was THE most chaotic couple in the history of couples. By chaotic, I meant chaos followed them everywhere and every single time. They don’t have a lot peaceful times before shit would hit the fan and off we go running again and again. The ML was one of the most heroic and greenest flag of all green flags. He LOVED the FL with all of his heart, body and soul. The FL .. you’ll have to wait until at least episode 3 to warm up to her but the character development was remarkable. She went from being an arrogant, petty and selfish brat to a strong, independent, wise and courageous woman. Truly magnificent to see her blossom.

Let’s talk crazy. We all know who. Ryang Eum was batshit crazy. He was manipulative, obsessive, possessive and I blame him for the leads’ misfortunes in the first season. Nam Yeon Joon was another crazy mofo. His self proclaimed righteousness under Confucianism blinded him from seeing the actual lack humanity presented in front of him.

The amnesia. Overdone and overused. Wtf. It happened not once but TWICE? EOTAKE?!

The women in this series suffered. A lot. You need to be brave to watch some of it.

Overall, it was a great series and experience to watch. I would not watch it again.