First, at 36 episodes, having no boring or lagging bits is a miracle.
I was so impressed at how they made it so modern and accessible for young people who grew up watching CSI and House MD, and yet kept the flavor of it so traditional Chinese. The perfect balance between comedy and seriousness was kept as well.
It's the sort of drama that has you falling in love with the main characters but also with the supporting cast and even the bad guys. They are all so well-rounded with strengths and weaknesses. Chu Chu and the prince were so refreshing as leads: you don't often see badass nerds as the heroes of a show.
And I loved the soundtrack, again with the balance of modern and traditional.
The thing that struck me the most though, was reading that this drama is considered low budget. How could that be, when it felt so opulent with all the lovely costumes and horses???
Recommended to anyone who loved the Korean classic Jewel In The Palace and its message of a strong and highly professional woman, even in the old times.