Wu Zhe's latest offering comes as close as possible to capturing the essence of Sa Ye, featuring beloved characters that resonate with fans. However, despite the similarities, it fails to surpass the deep affection I felt for the original novel. Initially, the writing was engaging, but by chapter 70, I found myself flagging. It's reasonable that these characters differ from those in Cheg Ge and Gu Fei; they feel more authentic and relatable. Their love, while genuine, remains somewhat distant, akin to "love through a screen." It doesn't ignite the same passion within me as their predecessors.
Let me clarify, I am not a die-hard Sa Ye fan; I admire Wu Zhe's work and enjoy her stories. The relationship portrayed here is a beautiful friendship, but lacks the intense emotion that defined their connection. Love through the lens of male lead (ML) isn't quite my cup of tea, but I appreciate the unique perspective she brings.