The headline kinda sums it up. Parts of the series were also predictable too (Xiaoci getting attacked by Xu Dian). I also think the Xiao Ai trope was revealed too early, though her character was played well.

Even when I was getting sick of the typical "Does she like him?/Does he like her?" thing (and almost dropped the series), I really liked Xiaoci's character. Her cunning, hard-to-get nature with Du Lingfeng was spot on, and I like that the series gave her a backstory as to why she is the way that she is.

I'm glad I didn't drop the series, but I'll admit to fast-forwarding through some parts. I think I would recommend this series, but would definitely not put it at the top of my list.