Political Intrigue, Political Intrigue! Any Stories That Test Your Wits? Come and Put Me Through the Wringer ･᷄Ὢ･᷅ 权谋权谋，拼智商的有木有，快来虐我･᷄ὢ･᷅

1. 201 系 System, You Can Nag All You Want, but I'm Not Getting Married 系统你催也没用，我偏不嫁 Planting Beans at Donggao东皋种豆Ancient Romance107k WordsCompleted The day she was bound to the forced-marriage System, everyone waited for Su Yi to accept her fate and give in. The System urged her to marry a powerful man and settle down. She refused. Everyone thought she was a timid concubine-born daughter, forced to flee a marriage. No one knew that she held a damaged old ledger left behind by her maternal grandfather, with a gaze fixed on a series of shocking old cases hidden among grain shipments, canal transport, and collusion between officials and mercha 4Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   This is just [eating melon seeds].

2. 202 名 In the Name of the People: Restarting 1992 名义：重启1992 Pale Clouds, White Snow苍云白雪Male-Channel Fanfiction2.3M WordsOngoing Qi Tongwei is reborn in 1992 and rises steadily to success. Oh, I hope everyone enjoys it. Your support is what motivates me to write, and I'll do my best to tell every story well! 22.7kReads7.3Score1.8kShelves

   Reader note

   Qi Tongwei is reborn in 1992. He takes root in the grassroots, rises rapidly through the ranks, and is navigating a complex and turbulent world of power struggles!

3. 203 娇EN The Schemes of a Noble Young Lady 娇女谋略 Lian Shuang帘霜Ancient Romance3.0M WordsCompleted Wei Yuewu, daughter of the Marquis of Huayang, was raised deep within the inner chambers and known to no one. The world said she had neither talent nor beauty. When she returned to the capital, her fiancé sent assassins after her. Her loyal servant died in her place, and she barely escaped with her life... Now she returns, bloodthirsty and vengeful. Watch as this seemingly delicate young woman devises her schemes, breaks through one predicament after another, and unravels every mystery amid one 12Reads8.8Score—Shelves
4. 204 高 When the Sorghum Blooms Red Again 高粱再次红了的时候 Pale Clouds, White Snow苍云白雪6k WordsCompleted When the Sorghum Turned Red Again 223Reads—Score—Shelves
5. 205 名 Celebrities Talk: America's Kill Line 名人谈：美国斩杀线 Pale Clouds, White Snow苍云白雪6k WordsCompleted Celebrities Talk: America's Kill Line 162Reads—Score—Shelves
6. 206 红 Forgotten Beauty 红颜忘 Red Hall Incense Burner红殿香炉Ancient Romance105k WordsCompleted She is a spirit child, and the reincarnation of a gifted witch. From the moment she was born, she could forget nothing. He grew up with her, but is fated to lose his memories once every five years, leaving his life in fragments. Yet even when he forgets, the grudges from their past lives still bind them together. Meanwhile, three factions are stirring, and a tangled web of espionage and conspiracy is slowly taking shape. After enduring trials of the heart, the grudges of the martial world, and t —Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   Planning with your brain often achieves its purpose without bloodshed.

7. 207 沉 The Silent High-Speed Train Passenger 沉默的高铁乘客 Pale Clouds, White Snow苍云白雪37k WordsCompleted The Silent High-Speed Train Passenger 147Reads—Score—Shelves
8. 208 非 Neither Wolf nor Blood 非狼非血 Pale Clouds, White Snow苍云白雪36k WordsCompleted Neither Wolf nor Blood 1Reads—Score—Shelves
9. 209 双 Two Wild Geese Return in the Drizzle 双雁归来细雨中 A Qi7阿柒7Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (The rating is low because it was just released and the platform gave it a default score! It has nothing to do with the quality of the story!!) (Please give this story a chance!) She is the only daughter of a distinguished general's household. Thinking ahead, she gives up the luxurious life in the capital and goes away to study the arts, all to leave her family a way out in case it ever falls into decline. He is The Outcast, the crown prince, second only to the emperor and above all others. He w 274Reads8.1Score103Shelves

   Reader note

   A political intrigue novel. The female protagonist returns after completing her studies and joins forces with the male protagonist, the crown prince who has waited for her for ten years, to unravel the court's conspiracies.

10. 210 榕 Four Essays Beneath the Banyan Tree 榕树下随笔四篇 Pale Clouds, White Snow苍云白雪8k WordsCompleted Four Essays Beneath the Banyan Tree 89Reads—Score—Shelves
11. 211 穿 Transmigrating to the Zhengde Era: Restoring the Dynasty, Starting with the Seizing of the Gate 穿越正德：从夺门开始中兴 Playing Chess by the Pine Waves at Night松涛夜弈Historical1.0M WordsOngoing In the sixteenth year of the Zhengde reign, I “died.” When I opened my eyes, I had become Zhu Houzhao, the Zhengde Emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The good news: I had transmigrated, and I was an emperor. The bad news: According to my “death edict,” I had been dead for three days. The new emperor, Jiajing, was on his way to the capital to seize the throne. The entire court, including my birth mother, was busy arranging my funeral and welcoming the new ruler. The even worse news: Grand Secretary Yan 301Reads6.8Score104Shelves

    Reader note

    True political maneuvering involves making your opponents fight amongst themselves. The time traveler conceals his true abilities, relying solely on his ability to recognize and utilize talent to incite infighting among the cabinet, the inner court, and the nobility. Is Zhengde alive or dead? Nobody knows—only the reader is God, watching this game unfold.

12. 212 诡EN The House of Dread 诡舍 The Sound of Wind and Rain at Night,夜来风雨声丶Mystery2.1M WordsCompleted [Infinite-flow + Mild Horror + Survival + One Female Lead] A driverless bus carried a group of cursed people to a strange black lodge… Inside the lodge stood a door stained red with blood. At regular intervals, the cursed were forcibly dragged through the blood-red door and into terrifying worlds, where they had to complete horrifying events… After Ning Qiushui survived one bizarre and terrifying story after another inside the lodge, narrowly escaping death each time, he discovered that none of 711.1kReads9.6Score100.9kShelves

    Reader note

    A masterpiece of political intrigue, scheming, and cunning.

13. 213 风 A Storm Rises, and the Beauty Takes a Stand 风起云涌红颜怒 Ten Miles of Spring Breeze, Pleasing Myself春风十里取悦自己Ancient Romance447k WordsCompleted The male lead is not chaste. Please avoid this if that bothers you. Since I've transmigrated, why not make the country strong and conquer the world? Even if I'm forced into a relationship, I'll still make money and build my career. After transmigrating into the body of a stunningly beautiful female doctor, she remains devoted to the man she loves. She and her fiancé are in love with each other and have sworn to stay together for life, growing old side by side. Yet the iron-blooded “God of Slaug 1.7kReads—Score143Shelves

    Reader note

    Hardcore political intrigue, logically consistent, high-IQ showdown, emotional game, extreme tension, tight plot, strong nation and military, plunder and seizure, court intrigue, rewriting the rules, no space or system.

14. 214 贼 The Thief's Way 贼道 Heading North向北Urban2.1M WordsCompleted My name is Xiao Wu. I was a wild child no orphanage could keep in check. At nine years old, I charged into this dog-eat-dog world. I saw through it then: living was like clinging to a moving train. You either held on or fell and were crushed to pieces. The first steamed bun I stole wasn’t because I was hungry. I wanted to see whether these hands that picked pockets could grab fate by the throat. The juvenile detention center, the shelter, and the detention center were my schools. The thieves wer 84.1kReads9.6Score10.7kShelves
15. 215 锦 Schemes at the Brocade Banquet 锦筵谋 Sweet Dream Feather甜梦羽Ancient Romance602k WordsCompleted From the pinnacle of Michelin cuisine to the hell of household intrigue, all it took was one explosion. Lin Wanyi, an internationally renowned top chef, opens her eyes to find she's become the most wicked third young madam of the Su family in the Qing Dynasty. From the start, she's in a hopeless situation: Her husband despises her, her mother-in-law wants to divorce her, and the servants look down on her. On top of that, her sister-in-law is a “born heroine,” doted on by the entire household, s 306Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist of *The Scheming Banquet* travels from the modern era to the ancient one, possessing a modern-day clarity of mind. She navigates the intrigues of the inner palace and the power struggles of the imperial court with meticulous planning and ruthless precision, her intelligence remaining consistently sharp throughout, free from romantic entanglements. *Lord Bao, Is Your Crescent Moon a Sticker?* Offers a dual-time travel perspective, following Bao Zheng's rigorous investigations, meticulously piecing together clues and establishing a complete chain of evidence. Both are high-quality political intrigue novels showcasing the protagonist's masterful strategic planning.

16. 216 羞 Humiliation? The Face-Slapping Began with the Imperial Betrothal! 羞辱？从赐婚开始便是打脸！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (Feel-good, two powerful leads, devoted couple, space, medicine, martial arts prowess, face-slapping) A top mercenary in the twenty-first century suddenly transmigrates to an alternate ancient world while on a mission, becoming an unloved illegitimate daughter of a general's household. A marriage contract and a deal transform the heroine into the wife of the “crippled prince”... With the two “princes” joining forces, the world is theirs! The Crown Prince stands in their way? Bring him down! Prin 4.8kReads9.3Score748Shelves

    Reader note

    These books are fantastic! Full of political intrigue and meticulous planning! The pacing is impeccable! They're incredibly engaging! Each story is unique! The third one, in particular, is amazing—the female protagonist enters the imperial court and nearly drives the entire court to the brink of madness…

17. 217 包 Lord Bao, Is That Crescent Moon Painted On? 包大人，你的月牙是贴的吗？ Sweet Dream Feather甜梦羽Historical284k WordsCompleted I'm a modern high school student who fancies himself Bao Qingtian, and I've transmigrated into the Northern Song as the celebrated official Bao Zheng. From the start, I'm faced with three questions: I can't write, I can't judge cases, and my face isn't even dark! To keep my identity from being exposed, I smear ink on my face and draw a crescent moon with lime. I planned to lie low and muddle through, but I end up becoming a master detective. As my reputation keeps growing, Gongsun Ce can't stop 37Reads—Score—Shelves
18. 218 民 Folk Feng Shui Secrets 民间风水秘术 Unbelievably Proper正经的不得了Mystery248k WordsCompleted This story focuses on practical feng shui and fortune-telling. If you're looking for made-up drama, this isn't for you! Feel free to skip the first four chapters and start reading from Chapter Five. The adaptation will also start from Chapter Five, which should make it much easier to adapt. Thank you for understanding! (Traditional, no System, no wild flights of fancy, funny, not saintly! A technical, skill-focused story!) I was born in a poor mountain village. From a young age, I traveled aroun 25.1kReads9.4Score3.3kShelves
19. 219 黑 Dark Face Reading 黑相术 Old Dog of the Barren Mountains荒山老狗Urban2.5M WordsCompleted After I lost my sight, a matchmaker set me up on a date, and I met a girl. She wasn’t human… One night, as we slept, I touched her tail. 22.6kReads8.9Score2.7kShelves
20. 220 十 Ignored for Eighteen Years, the Legitimate Daughter Returns to Deliver a Face-Slapping 十八年不闻不问，嫡女打脸回归！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Satisfying read + political intrigue + the fate of the nation + a pocket dimension + the martial world + medicine and poison + suspense] After accidentally transmigrating from a world polluted by nuclear fallout to an alternate realm, the heroine becomes an unwanted daughter of an official’s family. One day after transmigrating, she beats up a wicked servant and sells him off. From then on, the estate is her turf! Seven days after transmigrating, she becomes the leader of the martial world’s mo 4.2kReads9.1Score567Shelves
21. 221 称 Conquering the Grasslands, Starting in the Yuezhi Dungeon 称霸草原，从月氏死牢开始 Hanlin Painting Studio翰林画苑Historical213k WordsCompleted [Historical transmigration + System + underdog comeback] I transmigrated into a useless prisoner in the Yue clan's death row, and everyone thinks I'm as good as dead! But they've forgotten that death row is where great conquerors begin! Using the memories I brought with me, I recruit desperate outlaws and build an army of death warriors! I crush the Yue and Donghu, sweep across the desert, unite the Xiongnu, and bring the entire grassland under my heel! 14Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A historical political intrigue story with high intelligence, a thrilling tale of grassland conquest – a must-read for book lovers!

22. 222 掀 Flip the Table! The Legitimate Daughter Returns to Make Her Mark! 掀桌子！归来嫡女要立威！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Political Intrigue + Feel-Good Story + Sharp Tongues + Ensemble Cast + Nation and Family + Two Strong Leads + Devoted Couple] The legitimate daughter of a general's household, who had been left to fend for herself in the countryside, was maliciously attacked. When she opened her eyes again, she had become Liu Qingyue, China's top special agent. Determined to repay her master's kindness in recognizing her abilities, Liu Qingyue accepted his dying wish, left the Taoist temple, and returned home t 8.5kReads9.1Score1.1kShelves
23. 223 大 A Stick in the Tang Dynasty 大唐一根棍 My Name Is Wang Dabao我叫王大宝Historical1.8M WordsCompleted [Comedy + Suspense + Brainy Wish Fulfillment + Historically Grounded Tang Dynasty] A farm boy with a serious lack of virtue gradually grows into the Tang dynasty's number-one troublemaker (no, wait, strike that). He grows into a pillar that holds up the sky, a beam that spans the sea. If I'm having a good time and you're not, I'll beat you until you are. If I can't reform you, I'll cremate you. I crush foreign kingdoms, dissect the aristocratic clans, discipline princes, and slap emperors I can' 3.1kReads8.7Score237Shelves

    Reader note

    Tomato's only novel about the late Tang Dynasty, specifically the reigns of Emperor Wenzong, Emperor Wuzong, and Emperor Xuanzong. It has no system, a lighthearted and humorous writing style, is entertaining, features realistic warfare, bizarre court intrigue, and is intellectually stimulating.

24. 224 起 Getting to the Bottom of Mind-Reading 起底观心术 Bao Erri鲍尔日Urban1.5M WordsCompleted When I was five, a fortune-teller said I’d be able to read people’s minds when I grew up. My parents thought I was a genius and spent the whole family’s savings to send me to school. But I failed the college entrance exam and became a fried-noodle vendor. That vendor later became a “Walking Encyclopedia,” all thanks to the saying, “In books, there are houses of gold.” You are not just who you are. You can become a different kind of dazzling light. Read a comment on the first page, and you’ll get 225.7kReads9.6Score64.5kShelves

    Reader note

    "The Strange Tales of Shangguan Zhaorong," also known as "The Old Tales of the Underworld," tells the story of Yan Yulin, who is reincarnated and travels through a thousand years of the Tang Dynasty. She orchestrates the Taishan Fujun Festival and becomes a powerful empress.

25. 225 上 Last Season's Palace Intrigue Champion Is Now Ruling from Behind the Curtain 上一届宫斗冠军，现在垂帘听政了 The Visitor Sings of Yantai来者歌燕台Ancient Romance322k WordsOngoing [No System] [Political Intrigue with an Ensemble Cast] [Ascends the Throne] [Serious Drama] Xie Jin transmigrates, and before she can even celebrate becoming the champion of palace intrigue, she realizes she's become the previous champion! With his dying breath, the young emperor personally places the Imperial Seal in her arms. Xie Jin looks down at herself. The three-year-old crown prince is hugging her leg, drooling all over her sleeve. Good news: No more serving in the emperor's bed! Bad new 1.9kReads—Score157Shelves
26. 226 天EN The Heavenly Eye Feng Shui Master 天眼风水师 Light of the Dao道之光Urban1.3M WordsCompleted [A feng shui novel] [Featuring feng shui, Daoist medicine, psychology, and economics; read faces and phone numbers] [Practical insights] [Explaining the esoteric with science] My master hastily taught me the art of divination and passed down a few books. Before I even had the chance to formally begin my training in the mountains, he sent me down into the world to help people... Where can I even go to complain about that? Amid the mortal world, I help others and cultivate myself. 703.3kReads9.6Score149.7kShelves
27. 227 都 Now That I’ve Transmigrated into a Book, Why Be the Heroine’s Blood Bag? 都穿书了，谁还给女主当血包 Twelve Gates of Cold Light冷光十二门Ancient Romance152k WordsOngoing [Political intrigue] [Historical romance] [Book Transmigration] [Real-and-fake-heiress setup] Shen Zhaoning transmigrates into a novel about a real and fake heiress. The moment she opens her eyes, she walks straight into a deadly trap set by the real heiress. A cruel servant breaks into her room at night, intent on ruining her reputation. Blood sprays across the scene, but he’s the one who falls. There were originally two people in this world who knew the future. One was the real heiress, Qi Yun 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A historical drama about power struggles, not palace intrigue. Highly recommended! Strong female and male leads, and the supporting characters are intelligent and engage in a battle of wits!

28. 228 奸 The Treacherous Minister 奸臣 Lan Jia Sanshao蓝家三少Ancient Romance2.1M WordsCompleted Zhao Wuyou was the son of a treacherous minister, and everyone at court had to respectfully call him “Little Chancellor.” Father and son controlled the court and toyed with political power, so plenty of people wanted him dead. Mu Baili was the eunuch in charge of the Directorate of Ceremonial and the governor of the Eastern Depot. He seemed respectful, mild-mannered, and kind to everyone, but in truth he was a wolf who devoured people without leaving a bone. What a shame that such a ruthless ma 4.4kReads9.1Score506Shelves
29. 229 权 A Wild Ride Through Officialdom’s Power Struggles 权力巅峰之官途狂飙 One Pick, Twelve Strokes一拾二画Urban1.1M WordsCompleted [Officialdom + anti-corruption + crackdown on organized crime + one heroine + satisfying power fantasy] Four consecutive top officials have been investigated, and rumors are rife. Young secretary Zheng Gongming is entrusted with a mission at a critical moment. With his exceptional judgment and his dedication to serving the people, he writes a legendary story of his own. What's more, he also has an older brother, Zheng Gongcheng… 6.1kReads9.0Score416Shelves

    Reader note

    A refreshing take on political intrigue and power struggles in officialdom novels. The protagonist starts as a secretary to the provincial discipline inspection commission secretary, and the story revolves around the commission's anti-corruption and anti-organized crime efforts. It's realistic, features intelligent characters with strong moral values, a fast pace, and plenty of exciting moments. Highly recommended!

30. 230 天 The Game of All Under Heaven 天下弈局 The Donkey Who Longs for Distant Places想去远方的驴Eastern Fantasy1.6M WordsCompleted [Traditional xuanhuan] [No System] [Slow burn] [One heroine] After transmigrating into the declining noble Lin family of the Great Xia Dynasty, Lin Yilou has no grand ambitions. In a world inhabited by humans, demons, and cultivators, the elders of his family have judged his aptitude to be average and his cultivation prospects limited. Young Master Lin isn't too discouraged. He has no dreams of becoming the greatest under heaven; he just wants to be a wealthy young noble and live a life of luxur 1.1kReads6.9Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Just make do with it.

31. 231 巅 The Road to the Top: A Restaurant from the Start 巅峰之路：开局一间食肆 The Donkey Who Longs for Distant Places想去远方的驴Historical1.2M WordsCompleted A seasoned Beijinger wakes up one day to find himself the son of a low-ranking official in Wenshui County. His father is incorruptible, the family is struggling financially, his younger sister is malnourished, and he has two younger brothers: one whose schooling costs money and another who is only six months old. Ye Fan looks up at the sky and sighs. He never expected that what could help him most right now would be neither his education nor his work experience, but the cooking skills he was for 664Reads8.4Score103Shelves
32. 232 同 Accomplices 同谋 Qingshan青山Mystery337k WordsCompleted Dear Task Force, I am the mastermind behind the crimes. You uphold the law, while I protect morality. This meticulous division of labor has made our cooperation on this case go very smoothly, and I would be delighted to discuss things with you in greater depth. I’ve already sent the details of the next case to your phones. I look forward to us making progress together. P.S. Dear Captain Xia, I’m Jiang Cheng. I’m waiting for you at the crime scene. Dare to come? 530Reads8.9Score109Shelves
33. 233 阳 The Open Plot 阳谋 Nanhua南华Urban2.9M WordsCompleted The story of Tang Jun, a newly appointed civil servant, rising swiftly through the ranks! 6.6kReads9.0Score754Shelves
34. 234 皇 After Being Reborn, the Crown Princess Never Falls for Love Again 皇太女重生后，再不当恋爱脑 Yue Feifei月非绯Ancient Romance640k WordsCompleted [A crown princess who only cares about her ambitions + a cold, devoted prince of another surname, a peaceful and prosperous couple] [This is not a matriarchal setting or a matriarchal novel. Women can simply rule, serve as officials, and lead armies too.] Li Yan is reborn ten years in the past, back to the first time she met her consort. In her previous life: On the day the empress died of illness, her consort, Shen Ji, led a rebel army into the palace and stabbed Crown Princess Li Yan through t 79Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A historical romance novel featuring two powerful figures embodying political intrigue, with both logic and plot.

35. 235 军 Pang Tong, the Strategist 军师庞统 The Tavern Sign Is in Sight酒帘在望Historical297k WordsOngoing A Three Kingdoms transmigration story with no System, no dumbing down, and plenty of thrills. Brilliant strategists and venomous advisers take the stage; blades flash as the greatest generals clash. A sneak attack and a stab in the back break an enemy’s backbone in a single battle. Offering a daughter to sue for peace? How could anyone willingly move the capital? Armies march north along multiple routes as the Five Tiger Generals each display their might. Teachers pass their skills to students, 169Reads8.8Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Transmigrating into the body of Pang Tong, he clashes head-on with figures like Lu Su, Lü Meng, Jia Xu, Yang Xiu, Cheng Yu, Xun You, Cao Cao, and Sima Yi, employing countless clever schemes and navigating a web of traps at every turn.

36. 236 救 Help! This Lousy System Is Making Me Found a Sect! 救命！这破系统让我开宗立派！ The Crying of Xiao Xiao萧萧之鸣Eastern Fantasy2.3M WordsCompleted After transmigrating to another world as a sickly man, the male lead triggers a System: if he fails to save twenty people within three years, he’ll die of his illness. He sets off on a journey to save people, meeting one lovely confidante after another along the way. In the end, he’s forced to found a sect and finds his happy ending. (This is not a cultivation novel.) The premise is fairly fresh, leaving behind the traditional level-up-and-fight-monsters formula. The protagonist is frail at firs 35.6kReads9.2Score3.5kShelves

    Reader note

    It looks easy, but it actually tests your wisdom and strategy.

37. 237 苍 Cangyuan Demon Emperor: Reborn to Avenge Every Blood Debt! 苍渊魔帝：重生归来，血债血偿！ Young Master Run Yan润衍公子Eastern Fantasy2.5M WordsOngoing Revenge + Strategy + Invincibility + Myriad Worlds + Ensemble Cast The invincible Demon Emperor Cangyuan ruled the Myriad Worlds, yet he was betrayed by his beloved and his sect, nearly suffering the annihilation of his soul and eternal ruin. With only a remnant of his soul, he was reborn in the lower realm, in Xuanxin Heaven, on the Xuanxin Continent, in the Great Qian Dynasty, in Thundercliff City. Reborn and revived, he returns in a trail of blood! He swears to ascend to the upper realm and m 937Reads—Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    This level of intelligence is so off-putting, it's making me question whether I even have normal intelligence 😬

38. 238 乱 After Fleeing the Chaotic Era, I Became the Founding Empress 乱世逃亡后，我成了开国女帝 Nan Wanxu南婉徐Ancient Romance4.1M WordsCompleted [Publication rights signed] [Strong heroine + political intrigue + turbulent times + power struggles + ensemble cast] She’s fleeing from the start, a female warlord in a chaotic age. Lin Zhihuang, originally named Lin Zhihuan, transmigrates as a county magistrate’s daughter, only to find tens of thousands of refugees attacking the city from the start! While others transmigrate into palace or household intrigue, she transmigrates straight into a chaotic age and a desperate flight from famine. The 98.2kReads9.4Score13.6kShelves

    Reader note

    When it comes to political intrigue novels, Lin Zhihuang's name must be mentioned. From a humble woman in the inner palace to the throne of Empress, she relied not on anyone else, but on her own intelligence and strategic brilliance. It's also a rare ensemble piece, featuring multiple factions and characters, with even the supporting roles possessing distinct personalities and vivid portrayals. Want to see how clever people outwit and outmaneuver each other? Then come and read this novel!

39. 239 朕 I Am Hongli, Building a Golden Age for the Qing Dynasty 朕是弘历打造大清盛世 Third Aunt from the Farm农家三姑Historical1.4M WordsOngoing [Political Intrigue + Harem Rivalries + Factional Strife + Romance + Emperor] Hongli ascended the throne at twenty-five and ruled for sixty years, making him the longest-reigning and longest-lived emperor in history. He governed with diligence, excelling in both civil and military affairs, and led the Qing to the height of its golden age. Yet factional strife raged through the court, conflicts in the deep palace never ceased, and danger lurked behind the splendor. In the end, the golden age ga 15.7kReads8.3Score432Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so beautiful, I like it more and more the more I look at it.

40. 240 慈 Empress Dowager Cixi and Her Three Favored Eunuchs 慈禧皇后与她的三个宠爱太监 Farmer Third Young Master农家三少Historical3.7M WordsCompleted [Eunuchs + Palace Secrets + Empress Dowager Cixi + Court Intrigue] From the time Empress Dowager Cixi entered the palace to the day she ruled from behind the curtain, she shared an unusual relationship with three eunuchs: An Dehai, Li Lianying, and Xiao Dezhang. They were like master and servants, like friends, and more than anything, like old companions. She doted on the three eunuchs, who relied on her favor to do as they pleased, throw their weight around, and take part in court affairs. This 52kReads9.0Score3.2kShelves
41. 241 司 Sima the Old Rogue 司马老贼 Tu Xuan土玄Historical895k WordsCompleted He is the gravedigger of Cao Wei and the founder of Western Jin. He is the “old rogue Sima,” and the last winner of the Three Kingdoms. Centered on Sima Yi, this novel unfolds a sweeping panorama of the late Han and Three Kingdoms era. Witness how he treads carefully under the suspicion of three generations of powerful rulers: Cao Cao, Cao Pi, and Cao Rui; how he and Zhuge Liang wage an ultimate contest of will and national strength at Mount Qi and the Wei River; and how, in his twilight years, 463Reads9.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This work is clearly structured and rich in detail. Centered on Sima Yi and his family, it vividly depicts the turbulent history from the late Han Dynasty to the mid-to-late Cao Wei period.

42. 242 公 After the Princess Refused a Political Marriage, She Conquered the Empire 公主拒绝和亲后，称霸了江山 Evening Ripples晚漾Ancient Romance395k WordsCompleted [No rebirth or transmigration + powerful female lead + nation and family + court politics and ambition + light, stress-relieving power fantasy] Princess Chaohuang, daughter of the late crown prince, is deeply beloved by the emperor and the most exalted princess in the Kingdom of Xining. But the great clans consider her a thorn in their side and are constantly trying to drive her out. The daily question: Has Princess Chaohuang been kicked out of the Eastern Palace yet? Envoys from enemy states: W 323Reads8.8Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is a master strategist, skilled in both literature and martial arts, possessing exceptional strategic abilities. Everyone in the cast is also a career-driven individual – it's incredibly good!

43. 243 恶 The Villainess Runs Wild in a Misogynistic Kingdom 恶女在厌女国杀疯了 This Mountain Is No Mountain此山非山Ancient Romance333k WordsCompleted [Rise to power + revenge + political intrigue + rival suitors + ancient fantasy + awakening to her gender] A mind-bending transmigration story that starts with a bang and only gets wilder. The heroine is the strongest, bar none, and gives as good as she gets! An elite lawyer transmigrates to a woman-hating kingdom. This is the story of her journey from a desperate fugitive to a noble, a chancellor, and finally an emperor! “What? My own brother insulted my wet nurse?” Xu Shisan retaliates with a 157Reads8.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Let's test our intelligence!

44. 244 锦 Beauty in Brocade 锦衣艳骨 The Years Slip By斯年如逝Ancient Romance250k WordsCompleted The night is so dark. When can we claw our way back from being hounds of the powerful and become human again, dispel the fog, and reclaim our dignity and worth? She fights through this desolate night, blood splattered across her face, a sight so terrifying even demons and monsters fear her. No one dares touch her. Everyone she has touched has rotted in the mire and become a pile of bones. Ever since she put on this flying-fish uniform, it has been like wearing shackles she can never remove. She 2Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    True political intrigue, strong male and female leads, elegant and classical writing style, meticulous logic, tight plot, and strong sense of national sentiment.

45. 245 与 Playing Chess with You: The Phoenix's Power 与君奕：凰权 Jiang Tanluoyue江潭落月Ancient Romance369k WordsCompleted (The rating has only just opened and will rise later) “Political intrigue + evenly matched leads + marriage before love + traditional war for supremacy in a chaotic age + ensemble cast + powerful female lead + nation and family” In these chaotic times, even a monarch can hardly hope for a lifetime of peace. Crowned heir to the throne at six, named crown prince at eight, and enthroned at twelve, Yan Xi was the “future savior of the Yan Kingdom” foretold by an astrologer, blessed with the Purple 211Reads8.0Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A story of power struggles and intrigue, set in a chaotic world where everyone is highly intelligent, and every subplot is captivating.

46. 246 凤 Phoenix Roars Across the Nine Heavens: The Regent's Beloved 凤哗九霄：摄政王爷掌心娇 Crescent Moon Bends the Sheng, Original Version弦月折笙原创版Ancient Romance144k WordsOngoing Su Chenya, the legitimate daughter of a military family, spent seven years pouring her heart and soul into helping Zhao Yan, a man from a collateral branch, ascend the throne. She cleared away his political enemies and secured his rule, then became empress, the mother of the realm. She thought their devotion to one another would be rewarded with a loving marriage. Instead, to consolidate his power and indulge his favorite concubine, he turned around and framed the entire Su family for treason! H 7Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This treasure I discovered by chance

47. 247 六 The Six Gates: A Battle Against the Demons 六扇门：与魔争锋 Niu Dun牛墩Mystery1.5M WordsCompleted [Full-cast audio adaptation now available] [Court and martial world, political intrigue and mystery, decisive and ruthless] Who is caught in the scheme, and who stands outside it? Who is a pawn, and who has been cast aside? The only thing that makes their enemies tremble isn't the pair of blades in their hands... With a group of like-minded friends by their side, they can find the strength to keep going, no matter how dark the road ahead! 1.2kReads8.8Score100Shelves

    Reader note

    A suspenseful mystery with clear logic and mind-bending political intrigue. Lu Yao, Qiu Yu, Wan Qing, Duo'er, Lian Yi, Fu Rong, and Bi Luo—amidst layers of mystery, who is the pawn, and who is the player? Who is in the game? Who is behind the scenes?

48. 248 带 Taking Power While Pregnant, So Step Aside, You Crazy Little Uncle 带球掌权，疯批小表叔靠边站 I'm Eleven!我是十一啦Modern Romance224k WordsCompleted [A Powerful Alliance + Unhinged Cousins + Hatred and Political Scheming + Workplace Power Struggles + Corruption + Power Struggles in a Wealthy Family + Marriage for Mutual Benefit] Pregnant with twins, Wen Canlan takes over the Jing Group in a crisis. Just as she finds her footing, she falls into a series of deadly traps laid by her unhinged younger cousin, Bo Jinlin. A trap involving hundreds of millions in funds, a stolen bid, sabotage at a construction site, and a deadly car crash come one 77Reads7.0Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A power struggle, a battle for supremacy, and a web of love and revenge within a top-tier business district! Every step is a calculated move!

49. 249 重 Reborn, I’ll Win Your Heart Step by Step 重生我必步步攻心 Matchmaker's Score红娘一谱Ancient Romance114k WordsCompleted (Everyone's favorite + one heroine + satisfying rebirth story + strong female lead + sweet enough to hurt + two powerful leads in their second life) First life: a beautiful, arrogant strong female lead vs. a terrible, ungrateful man Second life: a clever, charming good wife vs. an obedient, devoted husband who can't catch a break A satisfying read from start to finish. The spoiled, overbearing young lady can't stand being slighted, no matter where she is. But... Xie Shiyi's first life was a comp 3Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It started strong but ended weakly. I thought it would be a long, long run, but it only had 50 articles in total. Each one was excellent, but very short. Was the author being pressured to write by some unseen force? Why did he write so quickly? He finished writing about things before he even had a clear explanation.

50. 250 疯 The Unhinged Prince Finally Learns to Be a Good Dog 疯批王爷终于学会当狗 Qi Zheng淇争Ancient Romance259k WordsOngoing [One-on-one romance + pure historical setting + strong heroine, obsessive hero + lovesick hero + falling for her through his own assumptions] Sharp-tongued, calculating female official who puts on an act × volatile, arrogant prince with a doglike streak As the emperor-appointed governor of Tongtian Prefecture and the sovereign’s most favored aide, Cheng Yang can get anything she wants. Every day, she chats with the consorts and stays up late talking with them. All she has to do is catch two “a 8Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    He fought his way out entirely on his own, without any special abilities, background, or external help. He survived time and time again thanks to his sharp mind, turning the tables and achieving his goals through scheming and planning.

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