I really enjoyed Violet Evergarden. Leaving Gilbert dead was absolutely for the best, for Violet went through tremendous development learning about the world he hoped for her to live in.
I do wonder who was on the other side of the door of Violet's last job we see, for she gave a surprised smile. I'd say it is left up to interpretation. Since she still believed that Gilbert could still be out there somewhere, some could believe it to be him. I like to think that it was us, the viewer, she was smiling at with such warm eyes.
Her development was so amazing. She really did learn what Gilbert meant when he told her, "I love you." And so, it brought me to tears when she finally said it herself.
My first anime was Fullmetal Alchemist. Well technically, it was One Piece cuz I kinda watch a few episodes of that when the 4kids version was airing on CN/Toonami. I didn't know what anime was back then, though. But I digress. Two of my online gaming friends told me about FMA and that is the show that got me into anime.
I barely visit the forums, so I forgot this was a thing. hehe
Anyway, I am currently 19 at the time of this comment, turning 20 in July. I've been watching anime since... Well I can't remember how many years ago or how old I was, but it was either 8th grade or freshman year of highschool when two of my online friends got me into Fullmetal Alchemist. And I've been in love ever since.