main character is a strong, independent, brilliant woman. She isn’t abrasive or obnoxious, just confident in who she is. Her success in the story is entirely from her own efforts.
love interest is a well rounded character, not an Everyman stand in. His own strengths and weaknesses are plot relevant and he grows independently of the mc.
the romance progresses at a steady pace and isn’t a will they/won’t they for two seasons.
romance is one of many plot lines, not the only one. It’s also slice of life and mideival politics.
Snow White with the Red Hair is my favorite hidden gem.
If you like that one, Yona of the Dawn is my all time favorite. :)
Added to my list, thank you :-)