There have been quite alot of detective cdramas released recently, although I have not watched them all, yet this should be my favorite for 2020 ^_^ The main reason that I love it:-- it focuses more on the FL's life and murder cases, and less on the romance. The script and pacing are even throughout the drama, unlike some other detective cdramas where it ends in a cliffhanger (Detective L.... for hinting at a master villain throughout but nothing happen) or plot turns ridiculous at the end (When a Snail Falls in Love). The comedy is done well too, not too much, just at the appropriate moments. My fav comedy is in the 2nd last episode ;) which was quite unexpected as the story was very tensed at that point, yet the comedy was actually logical and required in order for the plot to move on.

My highest praise is for the sets and costumes!! The production team has put alot of thought into making this as believable and realistic as possible. The cars, costumes and setting of every room and hall are so 1940s Shanghai-style and GORGEOUS. Ironically though, ML looks better in the pink convertible than FL ;p You will love the murder at the dressmaker: for the beautiful dresses and designs. Although I do not like the murder of the painter case, that painting of the sleeping beauty is so artistic and beautiful, I have to agree it is "to kill for".

The cast put up an excellent performance. I especially love the FL: the way she walks and talks is so sophisticated and charming. True, Ma Yili does not look 'drop-dead gorgeous' here... as this is modeled after Miss Fisher, who is someone described as so beautiful and flirtatious. But in real life, attractive women might not always be the best looking. Miss Su's charm is in the way she carries herself (confidence), her world view and knowledge, and knowing what dresses suit her figure. I'm sure you know of at least 1 or 2 such friends, who are quite average looking but attracts opp sex like honey to bees because of her charisma.... Ma Yili / Miss Su is such. If this is not attractive to you, there is the ML, Gao Weiguang in 1940s coat and suit.

The negative point about the drama is the murder cases.... not all of the cases are good. Especially a few of the cases in the 1st half. After the great start (the first case), there are a few duds. You know the kind, over complicated murder plan with very unbelievable killer motivation. Thankfully there are some really good cases. I especially like the murder at the factory, and murder at the dressmaker. The killers' motivations in both cases were unexpected yet logical ;)

The other negative point of the drama, it lacks the X factor. In spite of the amazing cast, good script and beautiful cinematography, I actually pause a few days in between episodes in the first half (between ep 5 to 15). I have started on this drama after it was completed. I could have binge it, but it did not have that pull factor for me. Which is quite strange... considering I do rate this drama very highly. If you have watched this drama, and feel the same way, could you explain why? It is like drinking champagne: you enjoy it when drinking, but do not feel the desire to order it every time.

Finally if anyone is haunted by the ending theme song, I found it at youtube:- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-65emeeFJZ4 窥望 by Sa Ji. And https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rsihvx2KQT0 迷惑 by Ye Xuanqing If you understand Chinese, the lyrics in the songs describe the drama well.