Mysterious Lotus Casebook

A Gripping Wuxia Mystery of Redemption, Brotherhood, and Secrets

Chinese Title: 莲花楼 / Lian Hua Lou
Also Known As: The Lotus Casebook
Genre: Wuxia, Investigation, Mystery
Episodes: 40
Broadcast Network: iQiyi
Broadcast Period: July 23 – August 9, 2023
Air Time: 20:00 CST
Based on the novel: Ji Xiang Wen Lian Hua Lou (吉祥纹莲花楼) by Teng Ping

🗡️ Synopsis

Ten years ago, Li Xiangyi, the revered leader of the Si Gu Sect, stood at the pinnacle of the martial arts world. A brilliant swordsman known for his justice and power, he was admired by all and feared by his enemies. But during a fateful duel at sea with his nemesis, Di Feisheng, both men mysteriously vanished, leaving the martial world in chaos.

Now, a decade later, the name Li Xiangyi is all but forgotten. In his place is Li Lianhua, a sickly countryside doctor pulling a strange lotus-shaped cart and living a quiet, humble life. But peace is short-lived. A brash young idealist named Fang Duobing, eager to become a hero, suspects Li Lianhua of impersonating a famous healer and vows to expose him.

Things get even more complicated when Di Feisheng, now reborn as the leader of the notorious Jin Yuan Alliance, reappears and recognizes Li Lianhua’s true identity. The past catches up quickly.

Thrown together by destiny, these three unlikely allies unravel case after case, exposing corruption and deception across the martial world. But buried secrets threaten not just their fragile alliance — they risk reigniting old vendettas and unfinished blood feuds.

🌟 Main Cast & Characters

Cheng Yi as Li Lianhua / Li Xiangyi
A former swordmaster turned enigmatic doctor. Behind his frail appearance lies a sharp mind and deep wounds from the past. Cheng Yi’s dual performance is masterful, portraying both the vibrant hero of the past and the weary, wise man of the present.
Zeng Shun Xi as Fang Duobing (Fang Xiaobao)
An enthusiastic and slightly naïve young man who dreams of justice. His persistence and admiration slowly evolve into deep respect for Li Lianhua.
Xiao Shun Yao as Di Feisheng
Ruthless and powerful, Di Feisheng is the formidable head of the Jin Yuan Alliance. But his old rivalry with Li Xiangyi turns into reluctant camaraderie, creating one of the most compelling bromances in recent wuxia dramas.
Supporting Cast Highlights:
- Xu Wei Luo / Xie Zi Mo as young Li Xiangyi
- Lu Jin Hao as young Fang Duobing
- Xu Jia Xi as young Di Feisheng

🔍 What Makes Mysterious Lotus Casebook a Must-Watch?

🧩 A Wuxia Detective Story with Emotional Depth

Blending classic martial arts tropes with investigative storytelling, this series stands out as more than just another revenge tale. Each arc presents a self-contained mystery — from murder plots to political conspiracies — all tied to a larger narrative of identity, loss, and renewal.

💔 A Hero Who Walked Away

Li Xiangyi is not your usual wuxia protagonist. He chose to disappear, to abandon glory and power — and the show explores why with poignant flashbacks and present-day dilemmas. His journey toward self-acceptance and healing is central to the emotional heartbeat of the drama.

🤝 Bromance & Brotherhood

The slow-burn trust and chemistry between Li Lianhua, Di Feisheng, and Fang Duobing is arguably the highlight of the show. From enemies to reluctant allies to genuine friends, their arcs are full of humor, loyalty, betrayal, and redemption.

⚔️ Stunning Action Sequences

Swordplay and martial arts choreography are expertly done, with both poetic duels and fierce combat. Action Director Li Bing Nan ensures every battle is visually satisfying and emotionally charged.

🧠 Clever Script & Philosophical Undertones

The series doesn’t just entertain — it reflects on fate, choices, and the price of honor. It’s a rare wuxia where the mind often defeats the sword.

🎥 Behind-the-Scenes Highlights

Original Author: Teng Ping (吉祥纹莲花楼)
Directors: Guo Hu, Ren Hai Tao
Screenwriters: Liu Fang, Li Hui Min, Cheng Yu, Wang Wei
Chief Producers: Zhong Jun Yan, Yang Bei, Wang Wen Ting
Producers: Deng Xi Bin, Wang Xiao Yan
Costume Design: Fang Si Zhe
Makeup: Zeng Ming Hui
Art Direction: Liu Cheng Yi
Production Companies: H&R Century Pictures, iQiyi
Filming Dates: June 26 – October 24, 2022

🎶 Original Soundtrack – Mysterious Lotus Casebook OST

The soundtrack perfectly captures the balance of melancholy and mystery, with instrumental pieces that complement the drama’s philosophical tone. Whether it’s sorrowful themes or heroic crescendos, the music enhances every scene.

🌟 Viewer Ratings & Reception

User Rating: ★★★★★ 4.90/5 (41 votes)
Viewers praise the show for its intelligent plot, emotional storytelling, and the strong performances of the leads. It has sparked wide fan discussion and earned a place among 2023’s most beloved wuxia dramas.

📺 Where to Watch

Mysterious Lotus Casebook is available for streaming on iQiyi with multilingual subtitles.

📣 Final Thoughts

Mysterious Lotus Casebook isn’t just another martial arts series — it’s a lyrical exploration of broken heroes, lost legacies, and unexpected friendships. Beautifully acted, gorgeously shot, and deeply philosophical, it offers something for fans of wuxia, mystery, and character-driven storytelling.

If you enjoyed The Longest Promise, Word of Honor, or Nirvana in Fire, Mysterious Lotus Casebook will absolutely captivate you.

💬 Join the Discussion!

Who was your favorite character — Li Lianhua, Fang Duobing, or Di Feisheng?
Which case left the deepest impression?
Were you satisfied with the ending?

Let us know in the comments below, and share this review with your fellow drama lovers!