The Honest Short Plot

Goo Hae Ryung (Shin Se Kyung) is known to be a lady of noble descent and likes to read Western books. She becomes a historian in the Joseon royal court. She dreams of equality in society. She crosses paths with a kind-hearted Prince Dowon Yi Rim (played by ASTRO's Cha Eun Woo). This Prince keeps his secret life as popular romance novelist Mae Hwa. They eventually fall in love and break norms to fight for what is right. This story is like a modern Romeo and Juliet story.

My Own Opinion:

When I heard about the title, I thought this would just be another sageuk with lots of bloodshed and family feuds over a throne. As I watch the series, I realized that this drama reinvented its formula. There are no complicated plots. You can expect no love triangle and no evil villains in the story. The drama is very refreshing.

I was hooked and excited on every episode because of heartwarming love story, dynamic characters, and mystery cases. It talked about political issues and discrimination that happens in a conservative society. The foundation of Joseon society was redefined. Foreign ways and medical practices are starting to develop from the West.

This is a new world where men have the power to rule. Women are weak and only follow the laws which are made by men. Goo Hae Ryung is a brave woman who tried to redefine the role of women in society. She is stubborn when it comes to traditional bridal lessons. She is very expressive about her heart. She will do everything to fight for her freedom and do what is right. The drama is trying to portray that a woman can also be a hero and save the day.

Dowon is sort of lacking the traits of a crowned prince who came from a powerful "royal blood". He is innocent, sheltered, and weak for a prince. This drama is trying to play a gender role flip. I applaud the whole team behind the production of this drama. The locations and designs are perfect for the theme. Kudos for the wonderful script with the combinations of romance, comedy, and drama.

I think they can bring more on Prince Dowon's character. The inappropriate qualities made him a boring pushover. This is just my opinion, please don't hate me! I would recommend this to people who like historical dramas, politics, and those who are interested in the Joseon era.

I'd Definitely Recommend It To:

Fans of Shin Se Kyung should definitely watch this drama. She can act accordingly to the old era setting. Hanboks perfectly suits her which makes her the "Sageuk Goddess" of her generation. Fans of Eun Woo will surely enjoy watching his funny and animated side. Just wait until you see his bathtub scene!