- Drama Title: Fated Hearts
- Also Known As: 一笑随歌, Wan Xin Ji, Xiao Ge Xing, Yi Xiao, Yi Xiao Sui Ge
- Director: Chu Yui Bun, Francis Nam, Gu Zhi Wei
- Cast: Li Qin, Chen Zhe Yuan
- Genres: Romance, Historical
- Number of Episodes: 38
- Date of Release: Oct 2, 2025
- Original Network: iQiyi
- Where to Watch: iQiyi
- Adapted from the novel “Yi Xiao” by Chi Yi Qian Yu
Dear readers… I’m in a very good mood nowadays. After finishing Love’s Ambitions drama and Fated Hearts, I feel like my inner romance junkie has made a grand comeback. Maybe it’s the warm sunshine, the cold lemon tea on my desk, or the sugar rush from the chocolate bar I ate after breakfast. Either way, I can feel love in the air or at least in my watch list. So, before this sweet mood fades, let’s dive into today’s drama, Fated Hearts drama review. Happy reading!
Fated Hearts Synopsis
Fu Yi Xiao, the red-clad female archer from the Jinxiu Kingdom, turned the tide of the Battle of Pingling. With a single arrow, she stopped Feng Sui Ge, the First Prince of Susha. But soon after the battle was over, Fu Yi Xiao fell from a cliff and vanished without a trace.
Later, she was rescued by Ling Xue Ying, the young mistress of Zhengnian Villa. When she woke up, however, she had lost all her memories. Her past had become fragments of a dream she couldn’t recall. However, fate was cruel and wouldn’t let her rest. She crossed paths with her mortal enemy, Feng Sui Ge.
Sensing something amiss about the Battle of Pingling, Feng Sui Ge believed Fu Yi Xiao held the key to the truth. Meanwhile, Fu Yi Xiao saw Feng Sui Ge as her only chance to survive in a dangerous, deceitful city. The two former enemies, bound by hatred, were now forced to rely on each other.
Amid countless perilous moments, love gradually blossomed between them. Trapped in a storm of hatred, betrayal, and deception, neither of them is truly innocent. Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yi Xiao must stand together to uncover the truth, break free from fate’s cruel grip, and protect what they hold dear.
Fated Hearts Drama Review
Dear readers, have you ever started a drama thinking it would just be another ordinary love story, only to end up completely hooked? Well, that’s me and Fated Hearts.
This new Chinese drama premiered in October 2025, is an iQiyi original and marks the first collaboration between Li Qin and Chen Zhe Yuan. To be honest, I didn’t have a high expectation at first and was a little sceptical. The premise felt too familiar: enemies turned lovers, betrayal, political power struggle, evil stepmothers, amnesia, and more.
The poster screamed a classic combination of cold general meets stubborn heroine. The trailer also followed the same formula. I remember thinking, “I’ve seen this before. What makes this one different?”
Beside the story, I also had doubts about the pairing of Li Qin and Chen Zhe Yuan. They seemed to come from different acting backgrounds and seemed to appeal to different audiences.
Not to mention their seven-year age gap, Li Qin often portrays mature and composed characters. While Chen Zhe Yuan is known for his youthful and romantic roles. It never crossed my mind that they could have good on-screen chemistry.
To make it worse, their latest dramas, Snowy Night Timeless Love and The White Olive Tree, didn’t impress me much. So, I didn’t put too much hope on this one.
I started Fated Hearts after some people on social media compared Li Qin’s performance to Song Yi’s in Shadow Love and Zhou Ye’s in Legend of the Female General. These dramas have been trending from August through October.
Now, let’s talk about the female generals. 😉
Actually, until today, my opinion remains firm. The best female general so far still belongs to Zhang Tian Ai in the 2024 drama, Fighting for Love. As A Mai, she embodied a commanding energy that truly captivated me. She is masculine, sharp, and charismatic.
Everything in her screamed authority and confidence. Zhang Tian Ai didn’t just act like a general. She felt like one. If you haven’t seen Fighting for Love yet, please do. You can read my review of this drama later. But seriously. Watch it now, thank me later. 😉
As for the others, Zhou Ye’s Legend of Female General was enjoyable because the story was great. However, I found her character was too playful, mischievous, and even flirtatious.
Completely different from the version I imagined in the novel, where He Yan was more composed, serious, and reserved. Song Yi was too gentle and too feminine for a war general.
While she delivers her characters beautifully, she lacks the commanding aura that should come naturally as someone who spent years in the military and on the battlefield.
Li Qin, on the other hand, did not disappoint me. Among the three, her portrayal of a female warrior stood out the most. She appeared confident, steady, calculating, and tough.
Her movement is agile, and even her face conveys determination and quiet pride. At times, she showed her weakness, but it didn’t make her look fragile or “weak”, only made her more human.
Her appearance matches the balance perfectly. Simple costumes and hairstyles with minimal accessories were much to my liking.
I couldn’t help but recall her impressive acting in Joy of Life, The Song of Glory, Thousand Years for You, and My Dear Guardian.
In my eyes, Li Qin has a distinctive facial expression and special aura that are perfect for a strong, determined, and stubborn character. That’s why her portrayal as a strong female lead always captivated me.
I did a quick search about Li Qin. She graduated from the Affiliated Chinese Opera School of the Shanghai Theatre Academy, majoring in traditional opera (Kunqu). She has been studying Kunqu since she was young.
The strong foundation in stage performance made her very appealing in costume dramas. You could see it at the beginning of The Song of Glory. At first, she began with a graceful dance sequence and continued with fighting scenes.
In Fated Hearts drama, her body language continued the perfection. You could see precision in her every movement, a thing that could only be born after years of training.
Contrary to Li Qin, Chen Zhe Yuan has a dreamy and youthful look in his appearance. He seemed like a refined young master straight out of a romantic novel rather than a war general who spent years on the battlefield. His gentle features and calm demeanor made it difficult for me to picture him as the God of War.
But as the story progressed, he gradually proved me wrong. Beneath the boyish charm, there was a quiet strength in his eyes. He might not look like a typical war god, but his composed elegance brought a different kind of charisma to the role.
He proved that a war god could also rely on intellect, strategy, and emotional depth rather than sheer dominance. And honestly, who could say no to such charming face on screen? Certainly not me….😁
Fated Hearts drama will bring you surprises. There were many plot twists in the second half of the drama. However, to reach that point, you’ll need to endure the classic palace tropes involving Empress Zhuang and Prime Minister Zhuang. Once you get past that, the story becomes much more interesting.
You don’t need to worry about the drama being boring. As always Cdrama always has funny characters who add some comedy to the story. And as you might have guessed, they were Feng Sui Ge’s sidekicks.
You could also find these kinds of characters in many historical drama such as The Prisoner of Beauty and A Dream Within a Dream.
As for the ending, yes, it’s a happy ending. However, the closure may leave some viewers feeling a little conflicted. But for me, I think that was the best outcome for all characters. The clues were there from the beginning. You just need to pay attention to the characters truly wished for.
The Story – Their Love Was the Truce
Fated Hearts tell a story about Fu Yi Xiao and Feng Sui Ge. They were bound by destiny and torn apart by betrayal. Together, their path intertwined through pain, revenge, and redemption. Even though they used to be enemies, in the end Fu Yi Xiao and Feng Sui Ge found solace in each other.
If you are someone like me who wandered in the Cdramaland for way too long, Fated Hearts might seem disappointing for the classical tropes. In the beginning, I feel that everything seemed so oddly familiar.
Two neighbour’s kingdoms were enemies. Their princes both has the military power at hand. And surely, they were each other’s strongest enemy. The female lead came and became a woman who stand between them.
Then the complicated matters appeared. As if being in war wasn’t enough for the country, there were also power struggle in each kingdom.
This plot reminded me of Angelababy and Wallace Chung’s General and I. if you interested, you should check the drama. It was released years ago in 2017. But this drama has become one of the dramas that opened the door to Cdramaland.
The early episodes move like an arrow. Fast and focused. Everything centered on Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yu Xiao, on how they hurt and challenged each other in an equal manner.
Yes, equal. Because their actions mirrored each other perfectly. There was scene when Fu Yi Xiao bite Feng Sui Ge’s shoulder viciously. And guess what? He did the same thing to her. This wasn’t just mutual violence, it was a proof of how equal they stood in the story. They were like two forces colliding. Neither above the other.
Even though Feng Sui Ge is a first prince, a man who likely to be the next ruler of Susha, he never desire the throne. He despised his father and his family. and if only his sister wasn’t the only princess of the kingdom, he might never return to the palace. He simply considered himself as a war general.
Fu Yi Xiao, on the other hand, come from nothing. She grew up as an orphan. Trained to be an assassin later become a soldier. She fought her way up through blood and merit.
Even as Xia Jing Shi’s lover, she never asked for any privilege. To both Feng Siu Ge and Fu Yi Xiao, the peace of the nation and the well being of its people were worth far more than the power or love.
This equality is what made Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yi Xiao’s relationship so compelling. neither stood above the other. not in strength, will, or cruelty. When they fought, they struck with the same force.
When they love, they burned with the same intensity. She could wound him, and he’ll do the same without hesitation. Their bond wasn’t built on dominance or submission. But on recognition. The acknowledgment that they were reflection of each other.
Both Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yi Xiao were hurt by the one they truly care. The betrayal hurts them and shaped them to become who they were.
They understand each other’s mind and feelings. And ironically, the one who could truly understand them was the one standing on the opposite side of the battlefield.
At first, the romance between Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yi Xiao was downright frustrating to watch. the deep hatred and the intensity of how they hurt each other made me think that this surely impossible to turn into romance. Yet somehow, the stubbornness was exactly what made it interesting to watch.
As their feelings slowly undfolded, the tension began to change. Hostility gave way to understanding. The wariness tuned into yearning. Even their arguments started to show hints of care. And the kisses… oh the kisses.
Each one carried the weight of the pain they endured, the burdens they bore, and unspoken emotion that words could never express. Both Feng Sui Ge and FU Yi Xiao longed for the same thing, a home.
A place to rest their weary hearts. In those moments, you could almost forget that they were once enemies. And for a brief second, you believe that love truly had the power to heal everything.
And don’t forget the romance between Fu Yi Xiao and Feng Sui Ge. At first it was very frustrating to watch. They seemed determined to torment each other up. no one willing to lower their guard, yet that’s exactly what made their relationship so intriguing.
The Story – A Kingdom Built on Lies and Loyalty
One thing that started everything in Fated Hearts was betrayal. Both Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yi Xiao were deceived by the people closest to them. But beneath the betrayals lay something much larger. The ongoing power struggles that consumed both kingdoms.
In Susha, the seeds of conflict were sown when Feng Sui Ge and Feng Xi Yang were still children. Their mother, the late empress, was accused of treason and died unjustly. Her death marked the beginning of chaos.
The new Empress Zhuang and her father, Prime Minister Zhuang, conspired to elevate the second prince, Feng Cheng Yang, to the throne. To achieve that, they schemed against Feng Sui Ge and Feng Xi Yang.
Feng Sui Ge’s father, the emperor, used cruelty as a lesson. He claimed that every harsh words and punishment was meant to teach Feng Sui Ge how to rule. But in truth, it only carved a deep resentment into his heart, and create a rift that could never be mended.
Meanwhile in Jinxiu, another silent battle was raging. Xia Jing Shi, the Prince of Zhennan, was trapped in a web of control spun by the Empress Dowager and the Emperor.
The mother and son were hated and feared of him. They tried to make use of him and his military power. While the emperor always tried to destroy Xia Jing Shi, the Empress Dowager wanted him alive.
Caught in the middle was Susha’s only princess, Feng Xi Yang. She was arranged to marry Xia Jing Shi, unaware that her husband’s heart was belonged to Fu Yi Xiao. The very woman who became her brother, Feng Sui Ge’s lover.
Fu Xi Yang’s story was one of the most intriguing in the series. She began as a gentle, sheltered princess who was protected by her father and brother. Her world was far from the darkness of politics.
But love and heartbreak changed her. Gradually, she transformed into a cunning woman who determined and unafraid to fight for her goals. It was a painful evolution, she was forced to face the cruel realities of the world.
And then there was the mysterious Storm Alliance. This part felt more like a side plot than an essential part of the story. While it added layers of complexity and tension, it felt like a distraction from the main story. A plot that only created to test Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yu Xiao’s loyalty and endurance on their journey.
The Characters
Fu Yi Xiao (Played by Li Qin)
Fu Yi Xiao is the foremost military commander and the best archer in Jinxiu Kingdom. She was known as the Red-Clad General because she always dressed in red. Together with Ning Fei and Xiao Wei Ran, they become the Three Heroes of Jinxiu.
Since childhood, the trio were trained as death warriors. Later, they were saved by Xia Jing Shi and joined the Zhennan Army. Among her comrades, Fu Yi Xiao was known for her intelligence, capability, and bravery. She also had a deep sense of righteousness. Unfortunately, this trait will lead her to her doom.
As the female general and the greatest archer of the Jinxiu, Fu Yi Xiao was a focused and determined person. She was no ordinary woman. Resilience is Fu Yi Xiao’s greatest strength. She could endure pain for the sake of her duty and the people.
Although she may appear cold and distant, Fu Yi Xiao has a strong sense of protectiveness for her loved ones. Her loyalty to her country and comrades runs deep. So, nothing could break her heart more than their betrayal.
Fu Yi Xiao and Xia Jing Shi’s relationship was more than just master-subordinate. They were lovers and were almost engaged if only she hadn’t vanished.
However, after losing her memories, Fu Yi Xiao also forgot about her affection for Xia Jing Shi. Perhaps the feelings weren’t deep enough for her to forget the person who supposed to be most important person in her life.
Feng Sui Ge (Played by Chen Zhe Yuan)
Feng Sui Ge is the First Prince of the Susha Kingdom. He was born to the late empress, and now his relationship with his father is strained. They are more like a master and a subordinate than a father and son.
The emperor treats him harshly and never tolerates his mistakes. Despite being the first prince, Feng Sui Ge was never appointed as the Crown Prince. Now, he only lived for his country, his younger sister, and his Feng Battalion.
Many know him as the Killer God. But Feng Sui Ge is someone with a deep sense of righteousness. He is ruthless, determined, decisive, cunning, and intelligent.
His was kinf to his men and gentle to his sister, Feng Xi Yang. He even treated his stepbrother Cheng Feng Yang with kindness, despite the Empress hatred. Only those who were close to him knew his pain and suffering.
Feng Sui Ge’s main objection is to destroy the Jinxiu Kingdom. His greatest enemy is Xia Jing Shi and his Zhennan Army. His hatred toward Fu Yi Xiao stemmed from the fact that she had ruined his victory.
The Battle of Pingling cost him his brothers, the people of Susha, and his reputation. Therefore, his hatred towards her was reasonable. But when he met her, something changed. He broke his own rules again and again.
It seemed that behind his hatred and anger lies admiration. He despised Fu Yi Xiao’s stance, but he clearly cannot ignore her courage, brilliance, and strength.
Xia Jing Shi (Played by Chen He Yi)
Xia Jing Shi, The Prince of Zhennan, is the brother of the emperor and the prince of Jinxiu Kingdom. Though he appears gentle, Xia Jing Shi is a determined and ambitious person. He was calm, calculating, and disciplined.
He was also patient, manipulative, and knows how to suppress his emotions. Not many people know about his hidden agenda, including Fu Yi Xiao. Xia Jing Shi’s main goal was to defeat Feng Sui Ge and take the throne from his half-brother, Xia Jing An. Xia Jing Shi was poisoned and relied on an antidote.
Feng Xi Yang (Played by Xia Meng)
Feng Xi Yang is the only princess of the Susha Kingdom and the beloved sister of Feng Sui Ge. Unlike Feng Sui Ge, she was doted on by their father. As a sheltered princess, Feng Xi Yang is simple and naïve, yet intelligent and stubborn.
She believes in love and is willing to fight for it. The only person she cared for and relied on was her brother, Feng Sui Ge. She grew up under his protection and care.
The only reason Feng Sui Ge collected his military merits was to make sure she lived a good life. If he were a good-for-nothing prince, Feng Xi Yang will suffer at the hand of others.
Murong Yao (Played by Zuo Ye)
Murong Yao is the only heir of the Murong clan. His father is a trusted confidant of the Susha Emperor. Even Feng Sui Ge called him Uncle Murong. Unlike his general father, Murong Yao is known for being laid-back.
He loves going to the pleasure house and be surrounded by beautiful women. Unlike the serious Feng Sui Ge, Murong Yao is more playful and energetic. They have been friends since childhood, and Feng Sui Ge trust him more than anyone else.
The Conclusion
Fated Hearts is a drama full of surprises. From Li Qin’s impressive acting to Chen Zhe Yuan’s unexpectedly cool and composed portrayal of Feng Sui Ge. What began as an ordinary and familiar story, turned out to be a complex and deeply layered tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I really enjoyed the relationship of Feng Sui Ge and Fu Yi Xiao. They were perfect for each other, because they were equals in strength, will, and pain. Their love wasn’t built on sweet words, but on shared wounds and unspoken understanding. This what makes me unable to turn away from the screen.
Well, I hope this review makes you wanted to give Fated Hearts a try. I knew that there were so many great dramas out there waiting to be watched. But as the saying goes, don’t judge the book by its cover. Fated Hearts drama reminded me that this proverb applied to dramas too. Anyhow, thank you for stopping by on this Fated Hearts drama review post, dear readers. I’ll see you in my next review. Happy watching!
