Looking for the Best of Historical Romance, the Kind You Can Read Over and Over 求古言的天花板，看N遍的那种

1. 501 首 The Chief Grand Secretary Has an Ulterior Motive 首辅大人他别有用心 Second Chubby Guy at the Village Entrance村口二胖子Ancient Romance229k WordsOngoing [Historical romance and political intrigue + two equally formidable leads + sweet romance with a lighthearted tone] [Straightforward, sincere female physician vs. scheming, crafty powerbroker] [Romantic push and pull, winning hearts is the key] [Both leads have eyes for only each other] Everyone in the capital says that Zhang Jingshu, Grand Secretary of the Cabinet, is decisive, ruthless, and merciless. But who is the frail young gentleman Lu Yining rescued by the lotus pond in the prince’s res 88Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   These books are so good, I couldn't put them down at all, especially the first one. I haven't read such a good historical romance novel in a long time; it's sweet and funny, and it's dazzling from the moment I opened it.

2. 502 流 Exiled, the Little Divine Doctor Saves the Entire Duke's Household 流放，神医小娇妻救了国公府满门 Wu Bai Wan伍佰豌Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [Space + Female Doctor + Strong Heroine + Satisfying Read + Taking Down Scumbags + Building Wealth + The Whole Family Exiled and Fleeing Famine, Capable Heroine with Space as Support] A military doctor transmigrates to ancient times and, on the very day she arrives, marries Mo Jiuyue, a great hero from the history books. According to historical records, the Mo family was renowned for its loyalty, yet their achievements aroused the emperor’s suspicion. On the second day of the newlyweds’ marriage 90.4kReads9.4Score80.7kShelves
3. 503 相 A Blind Date, Then a Marriage Contract with a Rising Powerful Official 相亲当天，和新贵权臣签婚书 Farewell to the Spring Mist辞春雾Ancient Romance316k WordsCompleted [Ancient matchmaking and whirlwind marriage] + [everyday husband-doting] + [unexpected secondary couple] + [fresh plot] "First, everyone is equal, and so is marriage." "Second, I won't stay shut away at home after marriage." "Third, if you want to take a concubine, we must divorce first." Zhou Dianyu, a white-collar worker who was born into the twenty-first century and raised from infancy in another era, is already past the age for marriage. But the men of the Dayuan dynasty are all scared off b 2.2kReads8.9Score242Shelves

   Reader note

   The pinnacle of ancient Chinese romance novels; every book is of high quality, you can buy them without hesitation.

4. 504 愿 May You Remember the Late Boat 愿君忆晚舟 Miao Miao Can Dream苗喵会做梦Ancient Romance580k WordsOngoing [Mutual devotion and fidelity + long-laid plans + traditional historical romance + strong heroine + no transmigration or rebirth + both fall for each other + ancient romance] [The Marquis's Heir with Multiple Identities] ✖️ [The Brilliant General's Legitimate Daughter] Xiao Wan, the general's legitimate daughter who had sworn, “I will never enter the palace,” was summoned back to the capital. On her very first day, the dissolute young heir Gu Xingzhou kept her at his side. In front of everyone 13Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   You won't regret watching this!

5. 505 小 Listening to Spring Rain All Night in a Small Tower 小楼一夜听春雨 Bright Moon Tilts明月倾Ancient Romance876k WordsCompleted A critically acclaimed historical romance ensemble that topped the annual charts! A calculating, lovesick beauty versus a dark, scheming top scholar! A historical take on Pride and Prejudice: life in the inner household isn't all scheming and rivalry, but also deep sisterly affection. The clever and capable Second Madam Lou takes the greatest pride in her life in having three beautiful daughters. To marry her three marriageable girls into “good” families, she travels a great distance to the capi 35.1kReads9.6Score5.7kShelves

   Reader note

   This is my top-rated classical Chinese novel recently. The author has a deep understanding of classical Chinese, and many of the theories are thought-provoking. The characters are vividly portrayed, and every couple is absolutely adorable ❤️ The eldest sister is gentle, the second sister is alluring, and the youngest sister is upright, but all of them possess a kind and clear-headed nature. There are no melodramatic sisterly conflicts; there are minor disagreements, but they always support and understand each other. The sisterly and mother-daughter relationships are incredibly touching. Xianyue's wedding scene was absolutely heart-wrenching; the aftertaste is so powerful. I will definitely reread this book!

6. 506 长 A Thousand Ridges, Forever Silent in Regret 长恨千岭了无声 Fugui, Who Isn't Good with Words不善言辞的富贵Historical42k WordsCompleted A Longing That Echoes Silently Across a Thousand Ridges 2Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   How about a short story? Give it a try.

7. 507 退 After My Sickly, Possessive Ninth-Rank Lord Forced Me to Marry Him, I Got Pregnant 退婚强嫁病娇九千岁后，怀崽了 Setting Hearts Ablaze纵火芳心Ancient Romance400k WordsCompleted [Villain + raising kids + doted on by everyone: silly beauty X ruthless fake eunuch, sweet 1v1 romance] A former top scientist transmigrated into a book and became a stand-in for the male lead's one true love. The moment she opened her eyes, she was at the scene of her broken engagement. To make matters worse, she was a doomed supporting character, a lovesick fool bent on her own destruction, and her entire family was made up of villains. Yu Nian: Have I walked straight into a wolf's den? Worst 11.7kReads9.3Score1.6kShelves

   Reader note

   I brought several of my most treasured books. I'm quite picky, and these were painstakingly compiled and collected. Give them a try, you definitely won't regret it!! [Please update more often!][Please update more often!]

8. 508 相 A Tangle of Longing 相思绕 Definitely Better一定更Ancient Romance300k WordsCompleted “I only think of her as a younger sister.” On their wedding day, the groom left her with those words and never showed up. The entire city watched Hua Zhuo become a laughingstock. Fourteen years of growing up together, of keeping each other company every day, still hadn’t been enough to make him honor their engagement. She was mocked and gossiped about, brought lower than dirt. Then the young general of the Xie family, famed for his brilliance and elegance, arrived in a groom’s robe and offered t 765Reads8.6Score101Shelves
9. 509 侯 The Marquis's Accused Wife Can See the Future: No Secret of the Capital's Elite Can Stay Hidden 侯府罪妇开天眼，满京权贵藏不住 Ying Youxian楹有闲Ancient Romance719k WordsOngoing A scandal rocked the Marquis Shunyang's estate. The second young lady of the household claimed the military achievements of the eldest young lady as her own. When the truth came out, she was reviled by thousands. Out of regard for family ties, the marquis's household merely sent her away to a country estate a thousand miles from the capital to recuperate. Eight years later, the household decided to bring the reviled Second Qin Madam back to the capital. The capital's nobility sneered. “Does she 181kReads8.9Score20.3kShelves

   Reader note

   Drop by drop, it penetrates your heart.

10. 510 别 Don't Mess with Her: The Princess May Lie Flat, but She'll Still Crush the Scum 别惹她，长公主虽躺平，但狠虐渣 Flying Like Clouds如云飞扬Ancient Romance1.0M WordsOngoing [Transmigration, past and present lives, woman disguised as a man, political intrigue, sweet and satisfying] Yun Qing was a princess born of the emperor's elder sister. On the day she was born, she was switched, poisoned, and hunted down, ending up in the common world as a discarded daughter of the family who had to disguise herself as a man. Her heartless father, her vicious concubine stepmother, and all manner of monsters and demons wanted her dead. When she opened her eyes again, she had s 1.4kReads9.3Score168Shelves
11. 511 仙 The Immortal's Appearance 仙人状 Shi Jin是今Martial Arts313k WordsCompleted [Historical romance + mystery solving + male lead with a secret identity + lovers who fight as fiercely as they love] A dazzling, outspoken heroine and a seemingly gentle but secretly ruthless physician, locked in a battle of equals as they fall in love! A celebrated romance author's popular historical mystery! A relationship between equals, full of tension; heart-stopping court intrigue; and the shocking truth behind bizarre murders! A celestial being appears in a dream to help solve a case and 16.2kReads9.6Score2.7kShelves

    Reader note

    Besides these ancient romance novels, what other good ones are there?

12. 512 凤 The Tale of Fengming 凤鸣传. Fugui, Who Isn't Good with Words不善言辞的富贵Urban17k WordsCompleted The Tale of Fengming. —Reads—Score—Shelves
13. 513 给 Put a Mask on the Prince and Goof Around with Him 给王爷戴上口罩，和他一起沙雕 Mountain Demon山魅Ancient Romance274k WordsCompleted [Goofy heroine × unhinged hero, a hilarious fantasy ride. All aboard!] The Regent of Great Li had a twisted personality, and was seriously unwell. Ye Piaoling received a task from her ridiculous System: collect the Regent’s Four Treasures, meaning four items he kept close to him! His mask, his belt, and… Ye Piaoling: “What do I get if I complete such a dangerous task?” Ridiculous System: “You can ascend on the spot!” Ye Piaoling was delighted to hear that. From then on, she ignored her tasks and 8.4kReads9.4Score1.1kShelves
14. 514 破 The Broken Palace Walls 破宫墙 Xiaoman's Bowl小满的碗Ancient Romance515k WordsCompleted [Alternate setting + both leads have no past romantic relationships] The capital had its “Five Tyrants,” with Princess Anle, Li Qingyao, at the top. Rumor had it that the princess was spoiled and arrogant, always carrying a long whip at her side. She was also doted on by the emperor and favored by the Noble Consort, making her the most cherished person in the Great Yan Dynasty. Yet this high-and-mighty princess died a tragic death in a conspiracy. What was most despairing was that the mastermind 1.6kReads8.9Score232Shelves

    Reader note

    Pure palace intrigue, very entertaining.

15. 515 宰 The Chancellor Is Hard to Flirt With: Cold in Public, Wild with Desire in Private 宰辅不经撩，人前清冷人后欲又野 Clear Grain Knows Autumn清禾知秋Ancient Romance589k WordsCompleted [For all the aunties out there, come on in] [Once the older, powerful minister discovers the pleasures of the bedroom, he spoils his wife without restraint] Ling Wanqiu was the laughingstock of the capital’s elite. Everyone said she was a complete idiot. At a flower-viewing banquet, her half-sister and fiancé led the crowd in humiliating her, and she was literally laughed to death. When she opened her eyes again, someone else had taken over her body: a modern socialite academy owner and queen of 68.8kReads7.3Score8.2kShelves

    Reader note

    I recently read a really good book, I recommend it.

16. 516 惊 What?! My Online Love Is Actually a Powerful Official from Ancient Times 惊！我的网恋对象竟是古代权臣 The Untamed Mustang野马无疆Modern Romance299k WordsCompleted [A brooding, ruthless Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard × a goofy, sweet history department beauty!] A high-sugar romance across time, sparked by a jade pendant! Set in a partly fictional world! In the first year of the Jiayi era, Xu Ge, Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard, outranked even the chancellor. He was the sharpest blade in the emperor’s hand. Rumor had it he was ruthless and had killed countless people. Just one look at his cold, bloodthirsty eyes was enough to make you 3kReads9.1Score402Shelves
17. 517 启 Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager Is No Delicate Maiden 启禀陛下，太后娘娘才不是小女子 I'm Not a Homeroom Teacher我不是班主任Ancient Romance461k WordsOngoing [Scheming Emperor x Lie-Flat Empress Dowager] [Stepmother Romance] [Chaste Male Lead] [Historical Palace Intrigue] [The Law of Falling for It] [Two Strong Leads] Shen Lingzhang woke up to find herself inhabiting the body of a wicked empress dowager who wielded power over the entire court. She thought she could retire early and lie flat, but then discovered that her stepson, Yan Ji, only pretended to pay his respects morning and night. In secret, he was always looking for a way to kill her. To 746Reads8.1Score101Shelves
18. 518 满 Spring Over the City 满城春 A Copper Coin一枚铜钱Ancient Romance560k WordsCompleted [New Bonus Chapters] The Liu family of the capital is an illustrious noble house, so powerful that even the imperial clan treats them with deference. Liu Yan, the youngest legitimate daughter of the Liu family's second branch, is gifted and blessed with both wisdom and good fortune. When her stepmother joins the family as she turns five, Liu Yan expects a fierce battle. But her stepmother turns out to be quite unlike anyone expected. With her older brother looking out for her and her childhood s 15.5kReads9.4Score1.7kShelves

    Reader note

    This book leans towards a nurturing relationship, and the female lead's character is well-developed and refreshing. What impressed me most was not the romantic relationship between the male and female leads (which was also good), but the close friendship between the female lead and Academician Xue, which broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding. It's a novel worth reading, and Chapter 52 is particularly brilliant, prompting reflection on life's questions. The book's theme is excellent; the limitations of our time are reflected in each individual, and everyone has their own way of dealing with them.

19. 519 一 The First-Rank Lady Litigator 一品女状师 Shi Yin时音Mystery626k WordsCompleted Xie Yinyin has a father who works as a litigator and is infamous for his wicked ways, bringing the contempt of everyone in the surrounding villages down on her as well. At last, her father gets his comeuppance: his opponent angers him into a stroke in court, and the burden of the household falls entirely on Xie Yinyin. To pay off her father's debts and save his life, she accepts money to represent people in court. Unlike her father, Xie Fangzun, who cares only about profit, she focuses on uncove 831Reads8.8Score104Shelves
20. 520 开 From the Start, I Pretend to Be a Prince on My Wedding Night, but the Bride Is Actually an Immortal Emperor 开局冒充皇子洞房，新娘竟是仙帝 Jiang Yufei江宇飞Ancient Romance223k WordsOngoing After transmigrating to Great Qian for twenty years, Shen Yanzhou still hasn't made it big. Now, framed for a crime, he's on death row. The Seventh Prince disappears before his wedding, and Consort Rong takes one look at Shen Yanzhou's identical face and has him brought out of prison: "Marry Tang Yuesheng in his place. If you pull it off, you live. If you're exposed, you die." On their wedding night, as Shen Yanzhou tries to figure out how to stay alive, the bride takes his hand of her own acco 155Reads—Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    This one is more suitable

21. 521 谢 Empress of the Xie Family 谢家皇后 Song of the Yue People越人歌Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted In her first year in the palace, she is a Talented Lady. In her fifth, she is a Jieyu. In her tenth, she wants to become empress. As empress, she can hold on to everything she treasures and keep it from being taken away. She can protect herself and her child, and she can... stay by his side. This is a road with only one direction: take a single step back, and all will be lost. The bright yellow ceremonial parasol moves forward, and the emperor's procession slowly enters the city gate. A yellow p 9.1kReads9.2Score1.1kShelves
22. 522 风 Willows in the Wind 风中柳 Yu Ling雨泠Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Ruthless heroine➕female-lead power fantasy➕light ensemble-style palace intrigue➕face-slapping and scum-bashing➕primarily focused on building her career] (Female lead is a virgin; male lead is not) Jiang Fu, the Jiang family’s fifteen-year-old illegitimate daughter, was lovely and graceful. Unfortunately, her stepmother was cruel and her father was heartless. As an illegitimate daughter, she had no say even in the marriage that mattered most to a woman. Her family could manipulate her as they p 2.1kReads8.8Score297Shelves
23. 523 丞 The Chancellor’s Daily Devotion to His Wife 丞相宠妻日常 The Moon Shines Brightly in the Clouds云月皎皎Ancient Romance362k WordsCompleted Everyone knew that Princess Chaoyang had bright eyes, pearly teeth, and a smile like a flower. The officials all praised the prime minister as learned and immensely talented. In the end, the prime minister married Princess Chaoyang, and the people of the capital laughed that he was living off his wife. They had no idea that he was perfectly content with that. The phoenix sings upon the lofty ridge; the parasol tree grows there, facing the rising sun. 322Reads7.6Score—Shelves
24. 524 我 Opening a Little Restaurant in Shengjing 我在盛京开小馆 Four Bayberries四颗杨梅Ancient Romance381k WordsCompleted [Alternate world, slow burn, not a wish-fulfillment novel, food + court intrigue + transmigration. Read with caution if that’s not your thing.] Miss Li’s Changhuan Eatery, tucked away on Qingxing Alley, serves delicious food at affordable prices. The officials who get up early for roll call tug at their increasingly tight uniforms, but still can’t help ordering another bowl of fresh pork wontons. Pei Hongzhi happened to eat there once and discovered that Miss Li didn’t just make excellent breakf 28.2kReads9.4Score3.7kShelves
25. 525 替 The Substitute Bride: The Mad Demon Emperor Is Provoked 替嫁狂妃：误惹病娇魔帝 Cinderella Wants to Become an Immortal灰姑娘要成仙Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted [The short drama adaptation, Farewell to the Immortal Bone, is now streaming] She was poisoned by villains, left mentally impaired, and had her dantian shattered and her contract beast stolen. Then she was forced to take another woman's place in marriage to an old demon. When her memories return, she transforms into a little grandmaster who can conquer the heavens and earth in a flash. The Spirit Palaces of the Heavenly Realm revere her, the rulers of the Underworld fear her as a demon, and the 5.5kReads9.4Score782Shelves
26. 526 b The Long Princess Turns the Entire Capital Upside Down bur长公主带着整个京城一起颠 81-Year-Old Shy Granny81岁羞涩老太Ancient Romance248k WordsCompleted [Rivalry for Her Affections + A Portrait of the Capital + Flirty Heroine + Taming the Dogs + Everyone Is Evil + Brothers at Odds] Also known as: “Shocking! The Ascetic Prince Bows His Head for Love” “Damn, the God of War Who Never Had Eyes for Women Has Fallen from His Pedestal” “Unbelievable, the Playboy Has Taken Up Cooking for the Grand Princess” Xiao Siheng had just survived a family trial with only a slim chance of making it out alive. He was about to inherit a fortune worth billions when h 5Reads—Score145Shelves

    Reader note

    Who understands this ancient romance novel! The female protagonist's goal after transmigrating is simple and straightforward: to conquer the emperors of four kingdoms, complete her mission, and reclaim her vast fortune. The capital is teeming with ambitious and handsome men: princes from enemy kingdoms, fallen war gods, arrogant merchants, and aloof emperors. Initially, they all stubbornly look down on her, but in the end, they all fall for the princess. A battlefield of villains vying for supremacy—watch as the female protagonist seduces these chosen ones, making them all bow down to her—the tension is palpable.

27. 527 主 The Mistress's Daily Life 主母日常 Zhou Dabai周大白Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [An Aristocratic Lady Tears Apart a Transmigrator + Reborn + An Idyllic, Leisurely Life as the Mistress of an Ancient Estate] Lu Lingjun and her legitimate younger sister, Lu Hanyi, were both reborn. In their previous lives, Lu Lingjun married the second son of a sixth-rank civil official, while her younger sister married the heir to a marquis’s estate. Everyone said her sister had made the better match. But who could have guessed that Lu Lingjun’s husband would become the prime minister and sec 23.8kReads9.0Score3.2kShelves
28. 528 佛 The Easygoing Second Wife 佛系继室 A Cat on the Moon月亮一只喵Ancient Romance111k WordsCompleted From the moment Cui Jiangwan learns she’s to marry Marquis Wu’an Ji Huai, she knows the marquis still carries an irreplaceable first love in his heart. That woman was his late wife and his childhood sweetheart. So Cui Jiangwan plans to be a laid-back second wife and live with Ji Huai in mutual respect. 3kReads6.8Score210Shelves
29. 529 禾 Autumn Passes Over Jing Mountain 禾过璟山秋 Apricot At Ease杏闲闲Ancient Romance242k WordsOngoing [Modern siblings transmigrate together + two equally matched political players + nation-building + imaginative historical romance + devoted couples with happy endings] After a car accident, modern siblings Rui He and Rui Zheng both transmigrate into a political intrigue novel, only to find themselves bound to a doomed, unfinished story set in a chaotic age. In the original, Emperor Murong Jing is isolated and outmatched, hemmed in by powerful aristocratic families and ministers, as well as the a 92Reads—Score538Shelves

    Reader note

    A story set in ancient times, about family and country! A brother and sister both travel through time. The female lead is knowledgeable in medicine, while the brother is an expert in water conservancy and land reclamation. Together, they build infrastructure and save the precarious Great Yan Dynasty.

30. 530 昭 Zhaozhao Waits for Your Return 昭昭待君归 Su Asu苏阿苏Ancient Romance294k WordsOngoing [Ensemble character growth x historical political intrigue x love of country and family x sibling bonds x childhood friends x steadfast friendship x teacher and student turned enemies x everyone focused on their careers x no rivalry between women] [Reader’s guide] 1. A gentle, slow-brewing story with understated romance: sweet at first, then heartbreaking. 2. A richly drawn ensemble cast, each following their own path and bearing their own burdens. After the Seven Kingdoms War, the State of Zh 9Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    [Slow pace x Sweet at first, then bittersweet x Ensemble growth x Historical political intrigue x Everyone focused on their careers x Patriotism x Unexpected twists of fate x Mutual redemption x Sibling affection x Childhood sweethearts x Teacher-student conflict x No female rivalry] Beneath the surface of court intrigue and power struggles, the core of this book remains "love" and "growth." There are no truly evil characters; everyone is pushed forward, and no one's fate is justified. It's not a traditional "feel-good" novel, because every "win" comes at the cost of "loss." Those who are lost will not return, but those who remain can still move forward. Dedicated to those of us who are unafraid of loss and bravely forge our own paths. [Progress] Entering the second volume of the main storyline.

31. 531 汴 Spring Deepens in Bianjing 汴京春深 Wheat小麦Ancient Romance1.6M WordsCompleted [Audio version now available, welcome to listen] Madam Rongguo, Wang Fu, devoted herself to her family until she fell gravely ill and died. She was reborn in the body of Meng Jiuniang, a foolish illegitimate daughter who was only seven years old. In her previous life, her husband became her uncle in this life, and her son became her cousin. In this life, Meng Wan had a simple wish: to live peacefully and watch her son, her cousin Su Fang in this life, grow up safe and sound. But as she and a gro 18.9kReads9.5Score2.4kShelves
32. 532 都 Now That I’m Reborn, Who’d Raise the Scumbag Husband’s Illegitimate Child? 都重生了，谁还替渣夫外室养孩子 Morning Clouds Purple朝云紫Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Film and television rights sold] In her previous life, Yun Chu supported her husband, raised his son by a concubine, and helped the Xie family rise to greatness. In the end, she caused all one hundred members of the Yun family to be beheaded, then was forced to drink poison by the child she had raised with her own hands! As the poison burned through her entrails, she opened her eyes and found herself back at twenty. A line of Xie family children stood before her, each calling her “Mother” with 27.7kReads9.2Score4.1kShelves

    Reader note

    Everyone should check out the novel "Yun Chu's Mistress Reborn," a refreshing read. It gets really good towards the middle and later parts, with many characters, a tight plot, and lots of foreshadowing, so it's not advisable to skip too many chapters. It's also the upcoming female-centric novel "Yun Chu Ling," starring Xin Xin [Admiration][Admiration]. Those who like this kind of story should give it a try.

33. 533 剑 Scheming with the Sword: The Alluring Emperor Both Dotes on and Torments Me 剑谋天下，邪魅帝君又宠又虐 Cheap Little Enchantress妖姬贱贱Eastern Fantasy1.1M WordsCompleted The Heaven-Splitting Sword weeps, and heaven and earth lose their color. When the Blood Talisman appears, the martial world is stained red. This story overturns the traditional tale of an orphan's rise in Wuxia, revealing the path of a young master from a martial arts clan through the martial world. From an innocent youth to a leader who commands the tides of the martial world, worries over the nation's fate, plots for power, and steers the course of events with a laugh... He was the son of the 339Reads8.9Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist writes ancient romance and martial arts novels, which should be a very good ancient romance! One reading is not enough! Bai Zhanmeng looked at the person in his arms, his heart filled with mixed feelings. He didn't know if what he did could be considered as using his looks to seduce her, or using her feelings for him to make her do things for him.

34. 534 内 The First Lady of the Cabinet 内阁第一夫人 Mo Tangtang墨汤汤Ancient Romance618k WordsCompleted In her previous life, she married into the imperial family in a high-status match, only to meet a tragic end. Her family was destroyed, and she lost everyone. In this life, all she wants is revenge, yet she becomes the wife of a Grand Secretary, the spouse of a powerful chancellor... 1.3kReads8.7Score121Shelves
35. 535 满 The Entire Court Longs for the Empress to Attend Court and Rule 满朝文武盼着皇后娘娘上朝理政 Lantern Festival Dumplings元夕圆宵Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted (The live-action series is out!) After her elder sister dies in palace infighting, Shen Shixi enters the palace by imperial decree to be selected as a consort. Within the palace are the powerful and virtuous Empress, born to the imperial in-laws; Consort De, born to an aristocratic family and exceptionally prolific; Consort Rong, the Emperor's favorite, with a strong artistic streak; Consort Qiong, whose superb cooking has won the Emperor's heart; and Consort Xiurong, known as a learned woman an 49.7kReads9.1Score5.4kShelves

    Reader note

    The most beautiful part of a story is watching "them" be born, and the most unforgettable part is watching "them" grow old. The most touching ending, however, is seeing the words "The End" and slowly recalling "their" joyful and noisy journey. Those who enjoyed *The Empress* might want to give this a try, as well as those who have read Cai Wangwang's classical literature. Years ago: "Because we stood at different points in the long river of history, I was more than a thousand years later than you." Years later: "A man's dignity was trampled underfoot by the power of an emperor."

36. 536 韶 The Slow Passing of Glorious Days 韶光峥慢 The Long Night Hides Forever长夜永隐Ancient Romance254k WordsCompleted The world is full of people who favor others. All Ye Shaoguang wants is someone who will take her side. She’ll keep working hard, harder, and harder still. A young lady skilled in every art of the scholar × a proud, unruly young prince 172Reads9.2Score—Shelves
37. 537 娘 My Alluring Wife, the Young Lord Willingly Traps Himself 娘子诱人，小公爷甘心画地为牢 A Hibiscus Plant一株木槿Ancient Romance444k WordsCompleted Chu Mingxi, the only son of the Grand Princess and Duke of Rong, is strikingly handsome and adored by countless women in the capital. But the Grand Princess is beside herself with worry over her son's marriage. At the Dragon Boat Festival banquet, when Chu Mingxi is pressed to marry, he points at He Qinyao, who's quietly eating in the back, and declares, “I want her!” The Grand Princess takes one look and immediately decides, “Fine, I approve!” He Qinyao, singled out of nowhere, is baffled and s 16.9kReads9.2Score1.1kShelves
38. 538 穿 Reborn as the Powerful Man’s White Moonlight, I’m Forbidden to Be a Couch Potato 穿成大佬白月光，天道不许咸鱼躺 Song of Great Sorrow大悲谣Ancient Romance629k WordsCompleted (Historical fantasy, imagination, strong heroine, medicine, secret identities, farming, apocalypse, stockpiling, spatial abilities, devoted couple, moonlight crush, and sci-fi elements) The heroine makes her way in life with her medical skills, but she's much more than a physician. After waking up one day at Qingfeng Temple, Su Yuejian plans to keep her head down and live a quiet life as a miracle-working doctor. But it turns out this body is hiding a terminal illness! So she returns home, asse 644Reads9.4Score106Shelves

    Reader note

    A masterpiece of classical Chinese literature, it gets better with each reading, doesn't lower your intelligence, and is a rare gem among Tomato's works.

39. 539 误 Lost in the Depths of Spring 误入春深 Wen Naixi温乃兮Ancient Romance148k WordsCompleted Prince Yu, Yu Huaiji, believed he had spent his life acting decisively, plotting every move, and leaving himself no weaknesses. He was sure he was invincible. But Heaven was about to show him that there was always someone greater! It sent him a delicate young lady from the Song family: Song Nao. She looked so fragile and soft that anyone could bully her, but in truth she was clever in her own way. After meeting him only twice, she had already found and firmly grasped his one fatal weakness. Yet 5.6kReads9.4Score609Shelves
40. 540 女 The Dashing General and Her Pretty Boy: Playing the Lazybones in Jiangnan 女将俏郎：我在江南装咸鱼 Spicy Seared Salmon辣炝三文鱼Ancient Romance186k WordsOngoing Also known as "All I See Is Dust" [Happy Ending + Strong Female Lead + Male Lead Transmigrates + Light Political Intrigue + Light Comedy] #Cool-Headed, Reserved Yet Warmhearted General vs. Witty, Gentle, Scheming, and Clingy Husband# In the winter of the nineteenth year of Shuncheng, General Lu is framed for treason. His steadfast loyalty is branded as treachery, and blood and bitterness stain the capital. Only a young orphaned girl is left behind. Four years later, the late emperor dies, and t 71Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A historical romance set in the Jiangnan region, featuring a strong female lead and a time-traveling male lead, a marriage of convenience that blossoms into love. The female lead outwardly appears carefree and indifferent, while secretly plotting her own schemes. The male lead has a rich inner life, the story is light and humorous, and the political intrigue is subtle, preventing any sense of oppression. The ending is happy and satisfying, making it perfect for a leisurely read.

41. 541 勾 Flirting with the Grand Tutor: Strangers in Public, Like Spouses in Private 勾太傅，人前不熟人后如做了夫妻 I Am No Good Person吾非良人Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted Main story complete (award-winning entry in the Fifth Online Literature Contest) While the top-ranking scholar husband slept soundly, Song Lian clung to the immaculate and upright Grand Tutor of the court, sobbing, "Please, save me..." What had she done wrong? She just didn't want to die. The family rules were merciless, the Grand Princess would suffer no rivals, and her husband wanted to become the princess's consort. Song Lian had only one way out: hang herself. So she summoned her courage and 137.5kReads9.2Score19.3kShelves

    Reader note

    As a fan of historical romance novels, I've read many books. Below are some completed, high-quality books where you can read them without skipping any chapters.

42. 542 白 The White Moonlight Villainess Reborn at Max Level: Execute the Traitors and Win the Emperor’s Heart 白月光恶后满级重生，诛佞揽帝心 Niu Zai妞仔Ancient Romance255k WordsOngoing Also known as "Why Pick on the Empress? She Is the Wife the Emperor Raised and Dotes on" Devoted Love x Mutual Firsts x Growing Up Together x Young Married Couple x Emperor and Empress At twelve, Chu Xuansu takes it upon himself to care for five-year-old Cui Wantang in every way, driven by the youthful spirit roused within him. In her previous life, Cui Wantang followed Chu Xuansu everywhere, growing up pampered and nurtured by his love. She became pure-hearted and kind. Even when she envied oth 1.5kReads—Score118Shelves

    Reader note

    There are very few ancient romance novels with both leads being virgins. The female lead is really strong and relies on herself most of the time, which makes the male lead seem a bit humble. But real women should read this kind of novel. Highly recommended!

43. 543 哑 The Mute Palace Maid’s Daily Life 哑巴宫女日常 Pearl Pu'er Tea珍珠普洱茶Ancient Romance524k WordsCompleted Maids! Maids! No Romance Bai Zhi was sold into the palace by her family when she was five. At ten, she was assigned to serve the Fifth Prince, who was the same age as her. At fifteen, she saved his life during the spring hunt. The Fifth Prince eventually ascended the throne and became Emperor Zhaoxuan, while Bai Zhi became the head auntie of the Imperial Tea Room in the Hall of Mental Cultivation. Because Bai Zhi was quiet and had once saved Emperor Zhaoxuan's life, she became a famous mute m 8.2kReads8.9Score468Shelves

    Reader note

    This is really good, and it's being updated. The female lead is a maidservant to the emperor. She saved his life when she was a child, and then the emperor made her his head maid. We can see the palace intrigue from the head maid's perspective, which is really interesting. There's no romantic pairing... Watching the palace intrigue from an outsider's point of view is especially satisfying.

44. 544 误 Lost in the Exquisite Bedchamber 误入玲珑帐 A Cat, A Dog, and a Glass of Wine一猫一狗一杯酒Ancient Romance678k WordsCompleted The print edition is available on major platforms. [Pure historical romance + devoted couple + strong female lead + marriage before love + political intrigue + household rivalry] [Long-suffering princess of a fallen kingdom] X [scheming, rough-hewn prince] [Original title: The Enigma of Linglong] “A historical-romance version of Mr. and Mrs. Smith: outwardly united, secretly plotting against each other.” To seize power, Linglong spent sixteen years disguised as a young master named Ling, studyin 8.3kReads9.3Score1.1kShelves
45. 545 好 She's So Unhinged, the Villainess Killed Off the Entire Plot 好癫，恶毒女配杀得剧名都不剩 Qian Liu Liu Qian浅流流浅Ancient Romance596k WordsCompleted The rating is low because it just opened, but it’ll go up! [Two personalities] [Revenge] [Self-redemption] [Subverting expectations] [Romance] [Both leads are each other’s only partners] [Male lead appears late] [Comments + transmigration into a TV drama + substitute romance and a reckoning] Li Muwan, the most beautiful student in the acting department, has two personalities. The first is gentle and long-suffering. After being attacked for no reason by haters, she suffered a mental breakdown, an 1.6kReads8.8Score152Shelves
46. 546 国 The Imperial Academy’s Fallen Woman 国子监破鞋 Flying King1996飞大王1996Ancient Romance1.4M WordsOngoing 136,543 people have already missed this book because of its title... One-of-a-kind pure heroine + nobody is innocent + romance and desire + the fate of the nation. Beauty fades, and with it, love. Golden fingers are just something people say to fool the gullible. She is a soul from another world, sharp-eyed and streetwise. In this decaying dynasty, she aims to amass a fortune beyond imagination and avoid the humiliation China suffered over the past century. 20Reads9.2Score168Shelves

    Reader note

    A hidden gem whose name might be misleading. The "no two clean" setting is clearly stated beforehand. Readers who are sensitive to sweet romance novels featuring two clean characters are advised to read with caution.

47. 547 锦 The Lucky Little Cub, Cherished in the Crown Prince's Palm 锦鲤小幼崽，清冷太子掌心娇 Yu Wujian郁雾见Ancient Romance204k WordsCompleted Su Qingyuan, a modern-day elementary school student, transmigrated unexpectedly. When she opened her eyes, she had become the youngest daughter of a marquis’s family, born frail and sickly. Her parents doted on her, her three older brothers protected her at every turn, and the entire household cherished her like a treasure. Prince Xiao Heng, cold and taciturn, was exceptionally attentive to the soft and cuddly little girl. They grew up together as childhood sweethearts. He kept her safe and care 4Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Take a look at this book

48. 548 人 In Ancient Times, the Powerful Keep Taking What They Want 人在古代，权贵步步强夺 Xi Han习含Ancient Romance476k WordsCompleted In her third year in the ancient world, the person who had sheltered Zhu Qingyu became embroiled in a legal case. Gu Zhao, heir to the Duke of Dingguo, offered his help. “Just this once,” he said. A fleeting night of passion was an ending for her, but only the beginning for him. Gu Zhao lived by the principles of self-restraint and keeping his heart in check. He was upright and proper in all things, except that he couldn’t suppress his endless greed, anger, and desire for a married woman. He 63.8kReads9.0Score9.8kShelves
49. 549 合 The Joyous Union Sect: A Feast for the Senses 合欢宗：活色生香 Ling Jiutian凌九天Eastern Fantasy756k WordsCompleted (Xianxia Fantasy + Multiple Heroines + Power Fantasy + Transmigration + System) At first, the male lead hides behind his golden finger. Later, he turns into a ruthless maniac who slaughters his way through the cultivation world, becoming a powerful, handsome, and formidable big shot! Every heroine is a peerless beauty, utterly devoted to the male lead and madly in love with him! The excitement keeps building, and things get incredibly intense later on. Stick with it, folks! I can't do this story 9kReads9.1Score994Shelves

    Reader note

    I've returned with a new soul, and no one can control me now! It's really great, the comic book adaptation is out! 🌷🌷🌷 [Bump][Bump]

50. 550 卑 A Lowly Concubine: Scraping by in the Marquis’s Household 卑微小妾，我在侯府苟且偷生 Big Big Big Big Qin大大大大琴Ancient Romance1.1M WordsOngoing Wen Baozhu never expected to go from maid to concubine. Though she was rather dim-witted, she knew perfectly well this wasn't what she wanted. But poverty forced her hand, and her greed for money made her accept. As a result, she had to work herself to exhaustion every night and endure beatings as well. Being a concubine left her suffering in silence… 3.1kReads6.5Score123Shelves

    Reader note

    Beautiful! Beautiful! Beautiful!

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