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. 251 风 Through Wind and Rain, the Wild Geese Return 风雨雁归来 Jiang Xiaoyu江小雨Ancient Romance499k WordsCompleted Cao Jinghe was one of the best spies in Jianzhang Palace, code-named Snow Goose. She entered the palace at eight. At sixteen, her homeland fell and Chang’an was lost. She spent eight years undercover in enemy territory, until the bandits surrendered, the lost lands were recovered, and peace returned to the realm. But she waited where she was, and the order to end her mission never came. Even her handler, “Mountain Ghost,” who had sent her secret reports all along but whom she had never met, vani 423Reads8.5Score101Shelves

   Reader note

   All characters are local, there is no time travel or reincarnation, all characters are intelligent, it's an ancient romance with political intrigue, the romance is very subtle, the female leads are all career-oriented and all know martial arts.

2. 252 秦 Qin's Replacement: A Bricklayer Rewrites Three Hundred Years of Qin History 秦替：泥水匠改写了三百年秦史 Heaven's Way Is Strong6729天行健6729Historical1.4M WordsOngoing Qin's Substitute In 1991, Zhang Daode, a boy from a small town in southwestern Hunan, studied hard and earned excellent results on his high school entrance exam. But someone with power took his place, crushing his hopes of continuing his education and forcing him into a life at the bottom of society as a bricklayer who knew nothing but hardship. Then a sudden fall at a construction site turned his life upside down. When he opened his eyes, he had transmigrated to the end of the Warring States p 1.5kReads9.2Score174Shelves

   Reader note

   Use your brain to understand the stories in history

3. 253 山 How Many Autumns Have Passed Over These Rivers and Mountains 山河几度秋 Jiang Xiaoyu江小雨Ancient Romance572k WordsCompleted In the first half of Zhao Lanxi's life, three men mattered most to her. One was her master, who had raised her; another was Yan Mo, the Vice Minister of Justice, who had recognized her talent; and the third was her full-blooded older brother, Zhao Jin, Duke of Zhenguo. Later, her master died, and Yan Mo died too. Zhao Jin, however, did not die. Not only was he alive, he also brought her a fourth man. One more thing: why does the heroine of a historical romance have to be a girl of fourteen or fi 56Reads6.0Score—Shelves
4. 254 与 A Splendid Letter to You 与卿书华章 Jiang Xiaoyu江小雨Ancient Romance601k WordsCompleted Since ancient times, historical records have had very little to say about women. And when they do appear, it is rarely because of their own achievements. Those few lines of ink usually tie them to the men in their families. Can women ever make a name for themselves in the history books? Before returning to the Central Plains, Zhou Shaojin was a noblewoman raised in the Western Regions. Her father died when she was thirteen, her mother when she was fifteen, and her husband when she was twenty-t 27Reads—Score—Shelves
5. 255 游 After Games Invade, I Settle the Score with Campus Loan Sharks 游戏入侵后，我清算了校园贷 Heaven's Way Is Strong6729天行健6729Urban240k WordsOngoing Set in a modern city, with Sun Yat-sen University’s three campuses and five schools as its central setting, an immersive game called "Era Invasion" suddenly overlays reality without distinction. Its rules become deeply entwined with the real world: completing missions can awaken supernatural abilities and grant supplies, while failure triggers real-world penalties such as ruined credit, physical injuries, or doubled debts. The campus loan platforms that once operated as usual mutate into the rea —Reads—Score—Shelves
6. 256 四 Siheyuan: Starting at the Supply and Marketing Cooperative, I Crush the Courtyard’s Troublemakers 四合院：从供销社开始，横推众禽 Heaven's Way Is Strong6729天行健6729Male-Channel Fanfiction290k WordsOngoing Synopsis of "Siheyuan: Starting at the Supply and Marketing Cooperative, I Crush the Whole Courtyard" Business whiz Lin Xiangyang transmigrates to 1962 by chance, taking over his father’s job as a procurement officer at the Red Star Supply and Marketing Cooperative. He also activates the Super Supply and Marketing Cooperative System, gaining abilities such as spatial storage, accelerated production, and trade with the future. These powers help him carefully navigate an era of scarcity. As soon a —Reads8.4Score—Shelves
7. 257 北 Lord of the Northern Frontier: From Deposed Crown Prince to Ruler of All Under Heaven 北境枭主：从废太子到天下共主 Han Baiju韩白驹Eastern Fantasy1.6M WordsCompleted Xiao Che, the good-for-nothing Crown Prince His mother is poisoned to death, and his uncle is framed. He, too, is ambushed and nearly drowns. Armed with a map that reveals all, he asks to be sent to his own fief. In the desolate Songmo frontier, he has no soldiers, no provisions, and enemies on every side. But with the Heavenly Eye in hand, the realm is his. He discovers mineral-rich lands, stores grain, and trains troops. He sees through the barbarians' intentions and brings their fighting f 487Reads5.5Score110Shelves

   Reader note

   I'm recommending a new book I'm currently following, *The Northern Tyrant: From Deposed Crown Prince to Ruler of the World*. The deposed crown prince, Xiao Che, suffers endless persecution: his mother is poisoned, his uncle is framed, and he himself is nearly drowned. In this desperate situation, he awakens his "Heavenly Eye Map," capable of 3D terrain, mineral resources, and enemy and allied troop strength. He ventures into the treacherous Songmo fiefdom, starting with nothing and surrounded by powerful enemies. While others rely on spies to gather intelligence, he uses his Heavenly Eye to grasp the overall situation: searching for minerals and stockpiling grain, training troops and gathering generals, subduing bandits, defeating barbarians, and pacifying warlords. Starting with farming, he rises from the desolate northern border to conquer, ultimately becoming the ruler of the world. The battlefield descriptions are solid, with farming and infrastructure development alongside political intrigue and warfare, offering a fast-paced and consistently updated storyline. If you enjoy stories of a deposed crown prince's rise to power, northern border development, and ancient conquest, you can search for the title on Tomato.

8. 258 官 Officialdom and Human Nature 官场与人性 Vigorous Distant Mountain元气远山Urban470k WordsCompleted The Woman Who Studied the Art of War: Born in the countryside to an ordinary family, the heroine starts out as a hotel lobby manager. By studying the art of war in depth and making full use of her intelligence and abilities, she fights bravely and ultimately transforms her life in spectacular fashion. Along the way, she displays extraordinary courage and perseverance, taking readers on an inspiring, legendary journey from obscurity to success. 124Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   "The Woman Who Learned Military Strategy: A Legendary Journey to a Life of Transformation" In the vast sea of ​​books, there stands a unique and powerful title—"The Woman Who Learned Military Strategy." This book will take you into a world of ordinary origins yet extraordinary achievements. The protagonist, born in a rural village without a distinguished family background, shines brightly on the stage of life through her own hard work and perseverance. Starting as a humble hotel lobby manager, she was not content with the status quo but actively explored and bravely forged ahead. Through in-depth study of military strategy, she seamlessly integrated ancient wisdom with modern life, fully utilizing her intelligence and abilities. In this process, she demonstrated extraordinary courage and perseverance. Facing difficulties and challenges, she never retreated but skillfully dealt with various complex situations, guided by military strategy. Her story tells us that regardless of one's background, as long as one has dreams, courage, and wisdom, one can achieve a magnificent transformation in life. This book is not merely a personal growth story, but also an inspirational life guide. It encourages us to bravely pursue our dreams in life, undaunted by difficulties and obstacles, and constantly challenge ourselves. At the same time, it also makes us deeply realize that wisdom and courage are key to achieving life goals. If you are looking for a book that can inspire and motivate you, then "The Woman Who Studies Military Strategy" is definitely your best choice. Let us follow in the footsteps of the protagonist, embark on this inspiring and legendary journey of overcoming adversity, and write our own wonderful life story together.

9. 259 七 From Seventh-Rank Official to the Top: The Strongest Female Chief Minister 七品逆袭：最强女首辅 Fine Night良宵Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (A woman disguised as a man in an ancient political intrigue story) Qin Yuan first met He Lin in the summer of Jingli Year 29. The cicadas shrilled in the trees, and the heat was suffocating. In a dark, filthy prison cell, she sat in a corner, her face smeared with blood. Without a word, he left her a handkerchief to wipe the blood from her forehead. When they met again outside the prison, she was no longer in such a wretched state. Dressed in a vivid red official robe, her bright eyes blazing, 3.7kReads9.1Score483Shelves

   Reader note

   My favorite is the first one. It's a story of warring states vying for power, full of political intrigue. The early part focuses on the female protagonist's emotional development, gradually developing her ambition to conquer and finding the answer to what kind of country and society she should build. The female protagonist and her subordinates influence and promote each other. The supporting characters are also intelligent, with both flaws and strengths. Most people are not absolutely good or evil, but act according to their own personality and self-interest. Political intrigue requires everyone to be smart, but the protagonist is even smarter. The downside is that the second book is still being serialized, presumably about assisting a prince, but it's uncertain since it's still ongoing. The female protagonist is intelligent and strategic, thinking ahead and anticipating all possibilities. The third book is also intelligent, adept at understanding others' psychology and predicting their goals and next steps. The only downside is that the emperor is infuriating.

10. 260 官 A Trap Within a Trap in the Halls of Power 官场局中局 Spring Breeze Leaves No Trace 007春风了无痕007Urban537k WordsCompleted [Political intrigue + power struggles + influential figures + suspense + workplace drama + deduction] Cao Zili, head of the Phoenix Mountain project, falls to his death. Rumors claim a suicide note was found at the scene, but its intended recipient is a mystery, and the case is full of unanswered questions... Was it suicide or murder? And what was the motive? The body cannot be found, making the case difficult to solve... The provincial task force arrives, sending the political scene in Huzhou i 1.3kReads8.7Score128Shelves

    Reader note

    I recommend this book to everyone.

11. 261 权 The Alluring Powerful Minister 权臣妖娆 Minced Meat and Fried Egg肉沫跑蛋Ancient Romance960k WordsCompleted Also known as The Female Top Scorer and The Female Imperial Tutor. He was a celebrated, charmingly elegant top scorer, showered with every favor under the heavens. Only after the Du family was destroyed and he hanged himself in prison did the world learn that “he” was a woman! After her father's death, the family's good name was ruined. Dozens of loyal servants starved to death. The beautiful women of the household were either made into servants or reduced to playthings for officials. Reborn, Du 3.3kReads9.1Score426Shelves
12. 262 冮 Gangcheng Storm 冮城风暴 Spring Breeze Leaves No Trace 007春风了无痕007Mystery414k WordsCompleted [Officialdom + Power Plays + Big Shots + Suspense + Business + Deduction] A woman jumps to her death, and the clues point to the senior management of Jiangzhou Group. Canada’s Shen Group moves in, along with America’s Grid and Japan’s Cai Si… Who is the player, and who is the pawn? Power struggles in high places draw government officials into the fray… Powerful officials make their moves, foreign forces intervene, and a contest unfolds over the nation’s major Jiangzhou No. 1 Project… The male an 346Reads8.5Score—Shelves
13. 263 惜 Cherishing Flowers 惜花芷 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [The original novel behind the TV adaptation starring Hu Yitian and Zhang Jingyi] After keeping her talents hidden for fifteen years, Hua Zhi thought she could spend her life as a proper aristocratic young lady, living in peace. But when the Hua family’s fortunes collapse, she has no choice but to reveal her sharp edge and hold the storm-tossed household together. Being out in public becomes the norm, and so does galloping through the streets. When all else fails, she even carries a coffin on he 18.6kReads9.6Score4.2kShelves

    Reader note

    It would be a real shame not to read them; both books are truly excellent, and I recommend them to everyone I go through.

14. 264 潜 Lying Low on a Lonely Island 潜伏孤岛 Spring Breeze Leaves No Trace 007春风了无痕007Urban126k WordsCompleted Shanghai in 1941 is a battlefield without gunfire. Lin Mo, the youngest chief of the secretariat in the Wang Jingwei regime, conceals a Browning pistol beneath his immaculate suit and deadly sharpness behind his gold-rimmed glasses. When he finds a classified message encrypted with the “Plum Blossom Cipher” in a safe, cold sweat soaks through his shirt. There is a traitor within the organization, and this person knows that he is the Chinese Communist Party’s ace agent, code-named “Winter Plum.” 493Reads—Score104Shelves
15. 265 带 Taking the Taobao System with Me to the 1970s 带着淘宝系统穿七零 2 Chuan2川Modern Romance2.1M WordsCompleted Technically minded military officer VS powerful, down-to-earth woman; the heroine builds her career. The System plays a small role early on, then gets to take it easy. Period setting + comedy + both leads devoted only to each other “When a lie-flat System meets a crazy Host” Other people transmigrate to the 1970s: fight nasty relatives, make money, and marry a soldier. Xiang Nuan transmigrates to the 1970s: ✓ Fails to be reborn six times, then angrily kicks the coffin lid off ✓ Hacks her relativ 23.1kReads9.4Score2.7kShelves

    Reader note

    Political intrigue tests intelligence; a broad perspective is essential… The heir to a political dynasty plans ten steps ahead for every one step he takes, a true master of ruthless cunning…

16. 266 错 Mistakenly Married to a Spy Consort, the Prince Is Decisive and Ruthless Again 错娶特工妃，王爷又杀伐决断了 Shu Xin舒欣Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted [Palace intrigue + political machinations + powerful male and female leads + witty humor + the fate of the nation] Zou Wanxi, a former special agent, has barely transmigrated when she’s married off to a prince who is gravely wounded and on the brink of death, in the hope that a wedding will bring him good fortune. Zou Wanxi saves the prince’s life. She plans to be a temporary princess consort, pick an auspicious day to get her divorce papers, and then enjoy her freedom on her own. The God of Wa 8.3kReads9.0Score865Shelves

    Reader note

    This book involves both the covert struggles for imperial power and the alliances and rivalries between nations, making it well worth reading!

17. 267 候 Hou Weidong's Notes on Being an Official 候卫东做官笔记 The God of Heaven Fell in Love with You天神爱上你Urban790k WordsCompleted As a graduate of a prestigious university, Hou Weidong encounters one thorny problem after another upon entering government service, yet manages to turn danger into safety every time. Taking different approaches: that is Hou Weidong’s political philosophy. That is how Hou Weidong conducts himself. That is Hou Weidong’s great wisdom. 3.4kReads6.7Score482Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so beautiful, an absolute classic, and incredibly beautiful.

18. 268 重 Reborn in the 1980s: My Wife Is a Little Spicy 重生八零：媳妇有点辣 Dressed in Splendor宝妆成Modern Romance5.0M WordsCompleted Her parents died young, her family was poor, and she was plain-looking. Xia Xiaolan had been dealt a terrible hand, but after nearly twenty years of hard work, she became an executive at a multinational corporation and finally put her life back on track... Then she wakes up to find herself reborn in the 1980s, as another Xia Xiaolan, this time with a face capable of bringing a kingdom to ruin. The original Xia Xiaolan had been dealt a winning hand, but chose to take her own life under the pressu 45.7kReads9.5Score5kShelves
19. 269 千 Qian Jinhuan 千锦欢 Yun Lingge云翎歌Ancient Romance229k WordsCompleted Completed · [A highly intelligent amnesiac fake princess x a cold, scheming prince] [Not a mindless power fantasy] [Both devoted to each other + classic historical romance + no transmigration, rebirth, or System + political intrigue + doting romance + reunion after a long separation + devotion to country and family + exclusive devotion + the one who got away + happy ending] For twenty years, the second prince of Nantang, Chu Jinyuan, has kept his guard up and trusted no one, until Hua Qianmei ar 472Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A super captivating political intrigue story, purely historical romance, with every plot twist defying expectations!

20. 270 蜀 Zhuge Liang Calls the Rebellious Son of Shu Han a Total Monster 蜀汉逆子诸葛亮直呼太妖孽 Lan Bingche岚冰澈Historical1.0M WordsCompleted Autumn winds sweep across Wuzhang Plains, and a star of the Han falls. For so many later romantics who love Shu Han and dream of its restoration, this became an unshakable regret in their hearts. Yet in the final moments of Zhuge Liang's life, he met a kindred spirit from a younger generation, long overdue. A mere brat, yet born with a rebellious streak. His words made even Zhuge Liang question his own life, leaving him feeling diminished. And yet, a deathless light flared in his aging eyes. "Th 779Reads8.7Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The pinnacle of political intrigue in the Three Kingdoms period; let's debate if you disagree.

21. 271 潜 A Secret Parting [Ugly Disciple Series] 潜别离【丑徒系列】 Zhi Jiu陟九Two Male Leads773k WordsCompleted [Two male leads, both devoted to one another + political intrigue with a serious tone + a faint sense of doom + dark, biting love and redemption + mutual devotion] [A frail immortal maiden at first, then a domineering, forceful pursuer · wolfish stepmother type Gong · Sheng Jing × blustering at first, then showing his true cowardly nature · paper tiger Shou · Jing Xingyan (Shen Yun)] A wolf recognizes only one mate in its lifetime. Ten years ago, Sheng Jing lost his beloved on the battlefield. F 6Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This one tests your intelligence. A story of two cunning and scheming men, a political drama with a slightly serious tone, a brain-teasing intellectual battle, a fierce struggle between tigers and wolves, and unwavering deep affection.

22. 272 将 The Pride of a Military Family: Reborn with My Wacky Ancestors 将门天骄：带着逗比老祖宗们重生 Spicy Rabbit辣子兔Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [Historical setting + lighthearted comedy + strong heroine + coming-of-age female lead + ensemble cast + political intrigue + defending the homeland] Chu Tianjiao was the eldest legitimate daughter of a military family. In her previous life, she devoted herself to fighting for her country, but after her death, her soul was imprisoned in the Imperial Ancestral Temple, unable to pass on. She spent her days chatting, joking, and shooting the breeze with a group of imperial ancestors, enjoying what 9.2kReads9.4Score1.5kShelves

    Reader note

    A humorous historical romance novel with political intrigue and action! The female protagonist is the legitimate daughter of a military family. In her previous life, she was an empress, and in her rebirth, she pretends to be weak while actually being strong.

23. 273 负 Snow and Frost Endure the Cold of the Years 负雪寒霜耐岁寒 Yan Wuping雁无凭Ancient Romance770k WordsCompleted [Strong Female Lead + Political Intrigue + Transmigration; Not for Those Who Want Both Leads to Be Virgins or Like Saintly Characters] Fu Xue transmigrates into the body of Ming Fuxue, the third princess of Beiyin and a concubine of Bu Tianxing, the Prince of Freedom of Dongyan. The original owner grew jealous and tried to poison the princess consort, Ming Xueyan. This enraged Prince Bu Tianxing, who ordered her to be beaten to death. Just as she was on the brink of death, she was given away. Fr 2.9kReads9.0Score354Shelves
24. 274 科 Tempest at the Imperial Examinations 科场风云 Yan Yutong颜雨彤Historical278k WordsCompleted My new work is here! Come read it on Tomato Novel. I hope you enjoy it. Your support inspires me to write, and I'll do my best to tell every story well! —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A wrongful conviction in the imperial examination ruins a person's life. A young man, once full of vigor, is now scarred and forced to live a life of hardship and displacement. After his innocence is cleared, he travels to the capital to uncover the secret struggles within the royal family and struggles to survive amidst constant scheming.

25. 275 穿 After Reincarnating as a Supporting Woman in a Boys' Love Novel, She Became Everyone's Crush 穿成纯爱文女配后，她成了万人迷 Exactly Twelve Years恰好十二年Ancient Romance548k WordsCompleted [Mary Sue story! Men competing for the heroine! Lots of handsome men and love-triangle drama! All the men are chaste! Please leave your brain at the door while reading.] Chu Yunge transmigrates into the body of a princess of Chu who forces men into her harem. Aside from her prince consort, her rear palace is filled with handsome, unforgettable men, each with his own distinct style. But... this is a story about true love. The men aren’t attracted to women. They’re all paired with the twin emperor 1.4kReads8.6Score180Shelves
26. 276 欲 Ascend to the Ninth Heaven 欲上云霄九重天 Reading Ink, Listening to the Wind读墨听风Historical2.5M WordsOngoing A coral pendant engraved with a fire phoenix emblem draws Qi Ming, a destitute youth who lives on credit at a teahouse in Tianque City, into a shocking secret plot sweeping across four kingdoms. The moment the iron hooves of the Longxiang Army smash through the door, he still has no idea that the token his parents left him is the “key” that can overturn the world. The grand machinations governing the realm have barged into his life without warning. From a tide of Gu poison in a dungeon to a pack 571Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A realistic and authentic political intrigue story! This fictional Eastern historical novel constructs a complete world view, features vivid characters, a tight and fast-paced plot, and a delicate portrayal of human nature and the human heart.

27. 277 虐 Tortured into a Locked Love 虐锁清欢 Already Exists 11已存在的11Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted Leng Qinghuan was forced to marry the notorious Prince Yan. But she wasn't some naive, helpless girl. Crying and accepting her fate just wasn't in Leng Qinghuan's nature. She seized every opportunity, with the courage to burn her bridges, fought scheming women, fought the empress, opened shops, learned to solve cases, and more... Through her words and deeds, she proved herself. The woman Prince Yan had once sneered at ultimately became someone far beyond his reach! 305Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    An unintentional misunderstanding leads Ning Zechen to despise the woman before him, while Qinghuan, who clearly believes the Crown Prince is her true match, reluctantly accepts the marriage. Humiliation on their wedding night, the machinations of a scheming concubine, and the Empress's suppression—all these setbacks befall Qinghuan. For herself and her family, Qinghuan refuses to accept her fate. Her composure, her strategy, her courage, and her kindness reveal a different side of her to the murderous Ning Zechen. The two navigate a series of injustices, unraveling the mysteries and seemingly seeing a different side of each other. They face life-or-death situations together, as if destiny has bound them together... But reality is always full of surprises. If they can't be husband and wife, then they'll be allies! Without love, is there no harm?

28. 278 悔 I Broke Off Our Engagement When He Was Poor, but Now He's a Powerful Official Who Keeps Me as His Darling 悔婚穷书生他成权臣囚我做掌中娇 Yan Jingzhen盐景珍Ancient Romance877k WordsOngoing Historical fiction History seen through a young couple’s love and heartbreak The Xining and Yuanfeng Reforms of the Northern Song Dynasty, the fall of the Northern Song + the history of Zhejiang celadon (Yue kiln to Longquan kiln) 1. The New Policies among the people (the Song-Jiao war) 2. The Yun case in Dengzhou 3. Infighting among supporters of the New Policies (the Zhang Ruoji case in Xiuzhou) 4. The Chen Shiru case (the Yuanfeng reforms) 5. Su Shi’s poetry case at the Crow Terrace 6. Longqu 31Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    On the surface, it's a lighthearted story; in reality, it's a tale of historical intrigue and a populist perspective on history.

29. 279 大 A Qin Dynasty Clerk: One Labor Edict, One Gamble for Survival 大秦小吏：一纸徭役令，赌命换生路 Lin Xin临杺Historical28k WordsCompleted A Qin Dynasty Clerk: One Labor Draft Edict, A Life-or-Death Gamble for a Way Out 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A short, realistic story set in ancient times, focusing on the lives of ordinary people. 📜 At the end of the Qin Dynasty, an ordinary low-ranking official is plunged into a dead end by a single decree for forced labor. His superiors, knowing the task is impossible to complete, forcibly assign it, waiting for the lowly to become scapegoats. There are no cheat codes, no heroic comebacks, only a suffocating struggle in a desperate situation. The writing style is somber and realistic, with every step a deadly obstacle, and any glimmer of hope is crushed. Readers who enjoy micro-historical stories and oppressive realism shouldn't miss this.

30. 280 疯 The Mad Eldest Princess Reborn, Making a Stunning Comeback at Court 疯批长公主，重生后飒爆朝堂 A Candy in Life生活里的一颗糖Ancient Romance593k WordsCompleted Historical rebirth##Unhinged Eldest Princess#Cold, Powerful Minister Pursues His Wife#Court Intrigue: In her previous life, Eldest Princess Jiang Jingshu was madly in love and forced Xiao Tingyan to marry her. He avoided her at every turn and despised her from the bottom of his heart for her erratic ways, arrogance, domineering nature, and brutal methods. He thought she was a madwoman. The court was rife with undercurrents. Noble Consort Rou and the Second Prince’s faction seized control of the 483Reads—Score107Shelves

    Reader note

    Tags: [The Mad Princess: Reborn for Revenge - A Scheming Princess Ruins the Court and Harem] In her past life, the eldest princess died tragically on the path of the second prince's struggle for the throne. Reborn, she severs ties with her lovers and plots every step of the way. She makes amends to her four male lovers and family from her past life, gains the support of the court, helps the crown prince ascend the throne smoothly, fulfills the wishes of her husband, and uses his military power to purge the rebels. She navigates the complexities of the harem and the court. She single-handedly stirs up the political landscape. A cold and aloof minister is impressed by her foresight and strategic vision, abandoning his power to wait outside the princess's residence every day, wanting only to start anew with her. Both ancient and modern romance versions are available! #HighIQPowerIntrigueFemaleLeader #PalaceIntrigue

31. 281 前 I Was a Psycho in My Past Life. Reborn, I Take the Financial World by Storm 前世我是疯批，重生后飒爆财阀圈 A Candy in Life生活里的一颗糖Modern Romance208k WordsCompleted Mad beauty heroine / Reborn revenge power fantasy / Possessive CEO pursues his wife In her previous life, she was the top-tier star of the wealthy elite, a crazy heiress who was arrogant and unrestrained. Using her money to abduct handsome men and force Fu Heting to marry her, she was so domineering that no one dared cross her. In the end, her own family betrayed her, leaving her destitute and dead with bitter resentment. Reborn, she put her madness aside and focused on her career and revenge. A 140Reads—Score—Shelves
32. 282 魂 Awakening of the Soul: The Song of the Rift War 魂觉醒之裂合战歌 Treading on Flowers踏花郞Historical163k WordsCompleted On the eighth day of the ninth month, in the autumn of the late Tang, chrysanthemums bloom and all other flowers wither. The setting sun drips blood, smoke from the beacon fires blots out the sky, and horses trample the cracked earth amid utter chaos. Everywhere, blades flash and refugees roam... A down-and-out young man with nowhere else to turn seeks refuge with a fellow townsman, hoping to make something of himself. Instead, he stumbles straight into his enemies' den and nearly loses his life 211Reads9.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The setting sun dripped blood as he crawled out of a pile of corpses, roaring... It's so gripping and addictive! [Thumbs up]

33. 283 大 Great Ming: I Transmigrate as the Chongzhen Emperor, Starting with a Rope 大明：穿越崇祯帝，开局一根绳 An Illiterate Writes a Novel文盲写小说Historical2.8M WordsCompleted [No System + Political Intrigue + Ensemble Cast + Ruthless Combat + War] Good news: Zhu Lian transmigrated and became Zhu Youjian, the Chongzhen Emperor of the Ming dynasty. Bad news: It was the tenth day of the third month of Chongzhen’s seventeenth year, just seven days before Li Zicheng’s rebels stormed the outer city. The Ming dynasty was already on the brink of collapse, in grave danger. The Jurchens threatened from the north, rebels from the west, with one natural disaster after another an 60.3kReads9.3Score6.3kShelves

    Reader note

    Time travel story 🔥 Good news: I've been transported to the Chongzhen Emperor. Bad news: The rebels are about to rise up in a few days. But I'm the one who has the script. I know exactly who will help me and who will harm me. I'll just launch a massive purge.

34. 284 荒 A Dream of Flowers on the Wasteland 荒原百花梦 Flower Child Redheart花童红心Modern Romance1.6M WordsCompleted The space-time universe, the Ark of Heaven, the Interstellar Alliance, the illusory realm: what kind of existence is the world we live in? From the ancient age of gods and demons, through the classical age of wandering heroes, to the modern age of technology, and finally the future age of artificial intelligence, the history of intelligent civilization seems to be a cycle... Will artificial life ever develop independent consciousness, gain a soul and intelligence, and ultimately replace intellig 23Reads—Score—Shelves

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    A high-IQ strategy novel, full of exciting games and intrigue, with a winding plot that will give you a unique life experience.

35. 285 大 Ming Dynasty Tyrant: I’ll Extend the Dynasty’s Reign by 300 Years 大明暴君，我为大明续运三百年 Kunwu昆吾Historical6.1M WordsCompleted [Political intrigue]+ [Passionate]+ [Struggle for supremacy]+ [Ruthless]+ [No System] “Zhu Youjian, go in peace. Everything you had will be inherited by me, Ye Xuan. From this day on, I am the sixteenth emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Chongzhen. I swear here: Those you, Zhu Youjian, could not kill, I, Chongzhen, will kill. What you, Zhu Youjian, could not accomplish, I, Chongzhen, will accomplish. Li Zicheng and Zhang Xianzhong are rebelling? Then it depends on whether I give them the chance! The J 100.2kReads9.2Score12.2kShelves
36. 286 我 I'm Just an Adviser, I'm Really No Good at Scheming 我只是幕僚真不擅长权谋 Little Stream in the Countryside乡涧小河Historical1.1M WordsCompleted Powerful clans rule the land, and bandits run rampant. In a world this beautiful, with its lush mountains and clear waters, people still fail to cherish what they have. They have no idea how terrifying the apocalypse will be, yet spend all day scheming against one another. Since you love playing games of intrigue, I suppose I’ll have to join in and play politics with you. 1kReads7.6Score102Shelves

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    Two books I've been following recently

37. 287 快 Quick, Let Duke Zhou Eat Some Meat 快让周公吃肉 Back to Yunnan归云南Historical1.3M WordsOngoing I transmigrated one day and became the famous Duke of Zhou, Ji Dan. Everyone praises me, saying, “The Duke of Zhou spits out his food to welcome worthy men, and all under Heaven turn to him.” But who knew I wasn’t practicing humility, I really just can’t stomach meat! The shadows of the blood sacrifices at Zhaoge haunt me. Just one bite of meat and I’m back in that slaughterhouse in my dreams. Within, scheming ministers watch like tigers; without, the rebellion of the Three Guards bears down. Th 68Reads—Score—Shelves

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    Why don't you take a look and give this a try?

38. 288 寻 The Umbrella and the Killer 寻伞追凶 Qiu Weilia邱未了Modern Romance225k WordsOngoing This is a tragic story set in the late 1970s. In a courtyard compound that seems peaceful and quiet, countless secrets and old grudges lie hidden beneath the surface. It is a world of conspiracy and revenge. Chen Yimei’s grandmother is poisoned to death in her own home. A mysterious umbrella draws Lin Ping into a thorny search for the killer. Who owns the umbrella? Could its owner be the murderer? As Lin Ping doggedly pursues the case, a shocking truth gradually comes to light... 47Reads8.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A suspenseful, plot-twisting, mind-bending, insightful, and entertaining period drama with high intelligence.

39. 289 我 I Debate the Classics with Great Scholars in the Embroidered Uniform Guard 我在锦衣卫跟大儒辩经 A Grain of Rice in the Vast Blue Sea沧海茫茫粒米身Historical1.2M WordsOngoing Yang Zhi, a top salesman and philosophy graduate student in his previous life, transmigrates to the end of the Zhengde era of the Ming Dynasty. Through a twist of fate, he joins the Embroidered Uniform Guard, passes the imperial examination, enters the Hanlin Academy, and debates the classics with the great scholars at court! 5kReads8.8Score355Shelves

    Reader note

    The only realistic time-travel tragedy in history, presenting you with the true history of the Ming Dynasty. Intelligent and engaging, the court intrigue and power struggles are far from mindless wish-fulfillment! My novel features a gripping plot, vividly portrayed characters, and a story that unfolds like a stream flowing into the sea—you simply won't be able to stop reading!!

40. 290 特 The Special Agent Physician Consistently Tears Down the Prince's Residence 特工医妃今天也在拆王府 Lan Lan Yu Chen蓝蓝雨辰Ancient Romance455k WordsCompleted On their blood-red wedding night, the “sickly” prince coughs blood onto her wedding dress, and his pulse feels bizarre. Shen Miao, a modern military doctor and secret agent, transmigrates after a plane crash and immediately senses the deadly lie at Prince Jing’s estate. By day, she is the new princess consort, fretting as she “tears the place apart” in search of blessings, prying open hidden compartments in the Buddhist shrine and probing the copper pipes at the bottom of the pond. By night, she 1Reads—Score—Shelves

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    **A clash of titans (medical skills vs. Disguise, espionage tactics vs. Court intrigue), a double identity reveal, arranged marriage turned into love, extreme tug-of-war, thrilling detective work and political maneuvering, satisfying face-slapping moments, and a strong sense of national responsibility. [Already added to my bookshelf][Thumbs up][Masterpiece by Que Shi][Masterpiece by Que Shi][Masterpiece by Que Shi][Masterpiece by Que Shi][Masterpiece by Que Shi]

41. 291 重 Reborn Without Hesitation: Slaughtering from the Start 重生不磨叽开局嘎嘎乱杀 Si Jinlan司锦岚Ancient Romance211k WordsCompleted The grudges and tangled relationships from her past life are settled in this one. The first thing the heroine does when she opens her eyes is kill, kill, kill. Of course, apart from murder and arson, she also plans to flirt with plenty of handsome men. Life is short, so she’s all about doing whatever she wants. 11Reads—Score—Shelves

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    You absolutely won't refuse such a wonderful article.

42. 292 众 All Living Beings: A King Bathes in Blood 众生芸：王者浴血 History Mover历史的搬运工Historical1.3M WordsOngoing A humorous take on historical figures from China, with straight-faced alternate history and wildly imaginative twists grounded in reality. Through a series of short character stories, it explores certain objective patterns behind seemingly random events, all for a laugh! 39Reads9.4Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    "The Strange Tales of Shangguan Zhaorong," also known as "The Old Tales of the Underworld," tells the story of Yan Yulin, a female protagonist who embarks on a perilous journey through the Tang Dynasty, collecting national treasures, orchestrating the Mount Tai Husband Sacrifice, scheming against the Empress, and uncovering a suspenseful tale of the Underworld involving the Empress Wu and Meng Po.

43. 293 女 The Vicious Villainess in a Matriarchal World Raises Her Fish Online 女尊恶獠在线养鱼 Garlic Bamboo Shoots蒜香竹笋Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Matriarchal society + sweet romance + one-on-one + devoted to each other] [Calculating and ruthless princess × obedient, loyal guard] The capital's good-for-nothing Second Princess is beaten in the street by another woman for pursuing a man, then crashes into a stone lion. After recovering from her serious injuries, the Second Princess seems like a completely different person: kind to others, uninterested in competing, and always helping her sisters. It isn't until the day this powerful princes 14.8kReads9.5Score1.6kShelves

    Reader note

    What? How did you know I like reading political intrigue novels? [Shy] The female lead in every book is in complete control, calculating every move perfectly, and strategizing with unparalleled skill.

44. 294 宫 The Willow by the Palace Wall 宫墙柳 Dream Doll梦娃Ancient Romance166k WordsCompleted Why must the imperial consorts compete for the emperor’s favor? A smash-hit, heart-wrenching historical romance that burst onto the scene in 2019! Recommended by countless tearful readers, this unconventional palace-intrigue novel will stay with you long after you finish. In the lightest of styles, it captures everyone’s deepest regrets. In May of the year I turned fourteen, with the pagoda trees in fragrant bloom, I sat in Yong’an Palace, propping up my head as I dozed. The man’s laughter held 50.6kReads9.7Score7.4kShelves
45. 295 我 I, the Frail Beauty, Am the Wealthy Family's Movie Emperor's Lifeline Blood Bank 我，病弱美人，豪门影帝续命血包 Liu Lili流栗栗Modern Romance858k WordsCompleted [A villainous heroine, a hero with a System, and a satisfying, melodramatic old-school story. Transmigrating into a book is the biggest excuse for throwing logic out the window. Not recommended for readers who take their values too seriously.] Heroine's perspective: In the book, Wen Jiu is set up as a foil to the heroine: a contrast between the real and fake heiresses, between the couples' relationships, between a vicious cannon-fodder character and the heroine, between frail and sickly and heal 8.7kReads9.3Score1.1kShelves
46. 296 汉 Chronicles of the Han Dynasty’s Last Empress 汉末女帝纪事录 A Reed Knows White一苇知白Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted Content warning: If you don’t accept a female lead in a one-on-one romance who has children, please don’t click. [Strong female lead + political intrigue + contest for supremacy + nation-building + one-on-one romance] At the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, the land is in turmoil. A flash flood sends the soul of Liu Zhen, a modern teacher, a thousand years into the past, where she possesses the frail, sickly Liu Zhen, the Han Emperor Ling’s second daughter, who died young. At the brink of death, 1.4kReads8.2Score225Shelves

    Reader note

    You can take a look at this one, it's pretty good.

47. 297 别 Don't Be Weak, Don't Provoke Her: An Angry Palace Maid Can Restore a Fallen Kingdom 别太弱，别招惹，宫女发怒能复国 Ethereal Fairy霓裳妖妖Ancient Romance748k WordsCompleted [Unusual premise + assassin’s rise + strong heroine + political intrigue + cold and heartless + mildly yandere + cool-headed lunatic + male lead rises from the nth place] * Su Mian was just a palace maid serving a princess. On the day the Southern Yan Kingdom fell, she watched everyone die before her without a flicker of emotion. The princess gave her an even more perilous mission. Until it was done, she had to stay alive. But in a world thrown into chaos, she was sold as a slave and forced to e 25.6kReads9.5Score4.1kShelves
48. 298 大 Great Qin: Fusu Turns the Tide and Rebuilds the Empire for a Thousand Years 大秦：扶苏破局再造千年大秦帝国 Ink-Stained Qin Wind墨染秦风Historical273k WordsOngoing Transmigration, political intrigue, and military strategy, with tightly reasoned plotting. Defy the imperial edict from the start, then kill the envoy! Zhao Gao and Li Si are secretly usurping power. The Xiongnu threaten the northern frontier, and the six states of Shandong are stirring. The Great Qin is on the brink of collapsing after just two generations. A soul from a later age awakens, and Fusu sheds his blind loyalty. He will no longer sit back and await his death. Watch as he defies imper 54Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Military, political intrigue, and online intelligence analysis.

49. 299 书 Trapped in a Book as the Demon Queen: The Sickly Regent Is No Gentleman at Night 书穿妖后：病娇摄政王每晚不当人 Ran Aran冉阿冉Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted After transmigrating into the Great Zhou’s most notorious empress, Su Ruo barely has time to enjoy herself before her life is in danger. A patriotic System comes knocking, asking her to support the young emperor and change the fate of the Great Zhou’s fall. ??? She’s the wicked empress everyone wants dead! Never mind that the young emperor is hopelessly incompetent. Picking a fight with the regent, who holds all the power at court, is just asking to die young, isn’t it? Patriotic System: The reg 2.2kReads9.4Score317Shelves

    Reader note

    Both the male and female leads are highly intelligent and not overly sentimental.

50. 300 临 The Hidden Actor of Lin'an 临安戏隐 The Mysterious Qiuchi神秘的秋迟Historical447k WordsCompleted [Me, a spoiled good-for-nothing: it’s all an act] After being reborn as the son of a Southern Song military officer, Zhang Ziyan decides to lie flat and make trouble for his father as a career. He raises fighting cocks, walks his dogs, and spends money like water. Lin’an City knows him as a complete waste of space. Everyone laughs at him: “Other than having a good father, what can you even do?” But they don’t know that... The imperial wine Jade Pot Spring is his creation, and its sky-high profit 173Reads7.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    🔥Southern Song Dynasty🔥Political Intrigue🔥Playboy🔥Highly recommended by a 20-year veteran reader! No intellectual deflation, excellent writing, heartwarming team, truly a great read!

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