The Syndicate

One of my housemates has been getting the rest of us sucked into Chinese historical/palace dramas. A few months ago we completed Langya bang (aka Nirvana in Fire) and it's honestly incredible, one of the most compelling series I've ever seen with great characterization and an intriguing plot rich with hidden identity, revenge, and relentless bonds of family and friendship. We're now working our way through Story of Yanxi Palace, which is set in a much later time period but has similar themes as a cunning palace maid schemes to avenge her sister's death. Would recommend both shows, they're also extremely visually beautiful (we're constantly expressing envy over the gorgeous traditional costumes and props lol). Can be intimidating at first, my housemate has seen them before and has a pretty solid understanding of Chinese history so has helped us follow the intricate plots and social customs.