Fated Hearts (2025) Review: Li Qin Shines in a Tale of Love and War

I started Fated Hearts (一笑随歌) mainly because of Li Qin, she’s one of my favorite actresses, especially when she plays a badass, strong female role. 

I also wanted to see Chen Zheyuan again after his impressive performance in The White Olive Tree. Honestly, I didn’t expect much when I began watching, it was one of those “I’m bored, let’s try this” moments, but by the first five episodes, I was completely hooked.

The story doesn’t waste time; it quickly establishes tension between two leads who begin as enemies bound by vengeance and duty. It’s that kind of setup that immediately pulls you into their world.

Storyline and Plot

Set in the warring kingdoms of Jinxiu and Susha, the story follows Fu Yixiao, a fierce archer who changes the course of a battle by shooting the enemy prince, Feng Suige. Fate throws them back together when Yixiao loses her memory and crosses paths with Suige once again, this time not as enemies, but reluctant allies.

What I really liked is how Fated Hearts balances romance and politics. The palace conspiracies, war conflicts, and blooming love story are all intertwined naturally. It isn’t just about lovers-turned-enemies, it’s about duty, power, and survival, and how both main characters are entangled in every aspect of it.

Emotional Moments

One of the most emotional scenes was when Xiyang and Xia Jingyan were attacked. I was watching it with my girlfriend, and she actually cried. Their romance had been growing beautifully, and that moment hit hard, it was tragic but touching. Honestly, those two deserve their own spin-off drama.

The pacing overall felt just right. No dragging, no rushing, every episode built upon the previous one with enough intensity to keep you watching.

Characters and Acting

Li Qin once again proves why she’s one of the best when it comes to portraying strong, emotionally layered female leads. Her Fu Yixiao was brave yet vulnerable, and her chemistry with Chen Zheyuan’s Feng Suige felt believable and earned.

Chen Zheyuan brought charm and depth to his role, calm and calculating when needed, yet tender in emotional scenes. Together, their bond evolved from tension to trust in a way that made their relationship feel real.

However, I did feel the drama had too many villains. It sometimes made the leads look almost untouchable, and when the true masterminds behind Fu Yixiao’s fall were revealed, it felt a bit underwhelming.

OST & Production Quality

The OSTs were one of the highlights. Each song matched a particular emotion or moment, like the one that played whenever Xiyang was sad. It became a kind of emotional cue throughout the drama.

Also, Sa Dingding deserves a special mention, she not only sang the opening song but also made a guest appearance. She’s one of those artists who are underrated in acting; her screen presence stood out even in a short role. I’d love to see her take on a full drama in the future.

Visually, Fated Hearts delivered the quality expected of an iQiyi production, detailed costumes, grand sets, and smooth fight choreography.

Themes and Takeaway

The drama beautifully blends themes of fate, loyalty, love, and redemption. It shows how two people from opposing worlds can find understanding and peace even amid chaos. It also explores how love can survive not just between individuals, but between two nations divided by war.

Final Verdict

Fated Hearts gave me exactly what I look for in a historical romance: great leads, emotional storytelling, and a satisfying ending. I’m happy it had a happy ending, though I wasn’t a fan of how they used dialogue between the leads to explain what happened after the final scene, that could’ve been shown visually instead. Still, seeing Li Qin finally get a happy ending drama was rewarding.

Rating: ⭐ 7/10

This is a story where destiny turns enemies into lovers, and love becomes the greatest victory of all.

If you enjoy romantic historical dramas with strong female leads, layered politics, and emotional payoffs, Fated Hearts is definitely worth your time.