Political Intrigue, Historical Setting 权谋，古风

1. 1 穿 After Becoming a Spoiled Brat, I Lie Flat and Stumble into an Emperor's Throne 穿成纨绔后，我靠躺平捡了个皇位 Good Fish in Shu蜀中有嘉鱼Two Male Leads531k WordsCompleted [Transmigration into an alternate setting + top] Wu Chuxun transmigrated into the eldest legitimate son of the current dynasty’s prime minister, a spoiled idler. He had no interest in dealing with the debts of affection left behind by the original owner. He’d planned to lie flat and enjoy life in this world, only to discover that the emperor was sharpening his knives for his father! That wouldn’t do. He’d only just croaked, and he didn’t want to die all over again. So Wu Chuxun set his father to 1.3kReads9.2Score182Shelves

   Reader note

   Ancient Chinese political intrigue, top, top, top, I'll say it three times, strong top and strong bottom, the main top is a rare masterpiece from Little Tomato, the last sentence is what the reader said.

2. 2 死 Death Loop: The Entire Capital Is His Love Pond 死亡循环：全京城都是他鱼塘 Apostle of Revelry狂欢使徒Two Male Leads715k WordsOngoing Also known as: Trapped in a Death Loop, Then Turning It Into a Dating Sim. Quan Ye transmigrates to ancient times, thinking he’s been given a second life. Who could’ve guessed he’d kick the bucket right away? Except he comes back to life. And so begins a cycle of rebirth, repeating the same few months over and over. Is his death simply the result of a brutal world where people’s lives are worthless, or is there a deeper mystery hidden beneath the turbulent surface? With danger lurking everywher 10.2kReads8.9Score1.5kShelves

   Reader note

   I recommend these two! Both are top-tier romance novels! The first one follows the protagonist as he explores the secrets of his past, experiencing different events and romantic entanglements with different people in each time loop! It's great! The second one has really good writing; each character is well-developed, and the protagonist is definitely charismatic! [Kissing emojis]

3. 3 征 Conquering the World with a Handsome Man at My Side 征战天下之蓝颜倾城 Drunken Dream, Immortal Traces醉梦仙踪Two Male Leads847k WordsOngoing [Historical fantasy + all-conquering male lead + alternate world] Wei Ye, a special forces soldier in his previous life, died and transmigrated to a dynasty that never existed in history. He had nothing but a frail, beautiful uncle to his name. One hunted while the other worked as a bookkeeper, and they managed to scrape by. But an accident shattered their peaceful life, and then Wei Ye’s origins became shrouded in mystery once more… From a young hunter to ruler of the world, Wei Ye never walks 9kReads8.6Score1.1kShelves
4. 4 逆 Against the Wind: Undercurrents 逆风行：暗流 Some Cat某朵猫Historical2.5M WordsCompleted In a turbulent and unsettled age, the tides of history could turn in a single night. Amid the splendor and strength of the four great nations, how could a weak little country struggle to survive the tide of prosperity? In a game of political intrigue, everyone was a player moving the pieces, yet no one could be sure they weren't a pawn themselves. Let us uncover the conspiracies and depths hidden beneath this turbulent stretch of history. 387Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   I recommend this book; it's a political intrigue and alternate history novel, and it's very exciting.

5. 5 姝 Bones of Beauty 姝骨 Wu Fourteen芜十四Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [The low rating is because the book was just rated. It’ll go up later] [Traditional historical romance, no rebirth or transmigration]+ [Revenge]+ [Both leads are powerful and untouched]+ [Mad doctor heroine VS scheming governor]+ [Brisk pacing] She was once a noble young lady of the capital. Then disaster struck, and her world came crashing down. Her eldest brother hanged himself, and wild dogs gnawed at his corpse. Her second brother was exiled to a pestilential region, where he died under myst 2.7kReads8.6Score296Shelves

   Reader note

   I personally think this book is really good; the female lead is intelligent.

6. 6 守 On the Day of the Wake, My Sisters-in-Law Put Me on the Throne 守灵当天，我被众嫂嫂推上皇位 Kitchen God of the Wood Stove柴火灶王爷Historical724k WordsOngoing [Alternate Dynasty + Transmigration + War + Political Intrigue + Ensemble Cast + The Golden Finger Has Been Cut in Half] A high school boy named Tian Shu wakes up one morning in an ancient funeral hall. His widowed sisters-in-law swarm around him, showering him with care. In a feudal age of chaos, the powerful clans hold sway. The System is practically useless, and each sister-in-law has her own agenda. Born into a poor family, can he defy fate, change his destiny, command a vast empire, and mak 4.6kReads8.8Score183Shelves

   Reader note

   [Alternate Dynasty + Time Travel + War + Political Intrigue + Ensemble Cast + Chopped-Off Cheat] High school student Tian Shu wakes up to find himself transported to an ancient funeral hall. His widowed sisters-in-law swarm around him, showering him with concern. In this chaotic feudal era, powerful families hold sway. The system is practically useless, and his sisters-in-law each harbor their own agendas. Born into poverty, can he defy fate and rise to power, leaving his mark on history? Or will he be unable to escape his destiny, becoming a tragic cannon fodder, a sacrifice for someone else?

7. 7 寒 A Cold Crow Nests in Your Heart 寒鸦栖君心 Wind and Sunset风夕阳Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Everyone envies the Prince of Beian for loving his wife beyond all measure, with a love as deep as the sea. No one knows he won this perfect life by risking everything. Yan Junjue clawed his way out of a mountain of corpses in the Cold Palace. He was bloodthirsty and ruthless, a possessive, obsessive madman whose jealousy was carved into his bones. Everyone in the world feared him. Only Cui Yunqi was a little warmth in his endless darkness. She was the proud and steadfast lord of Hanya City, dev 9.1kReads8.8Score907Shelves

   Reader note

   Purely historical romance with political intrigue; everyone uses their brains.

8. 8 权 A Woman in Power 权姝 Wind and Sunset风夕阳Ancient Romance628k WordsCompleted Legitimate daughter | Devoted hidden guard × Long-suffering childhood friend, the prince | Pure romance | Court intrigue | Strong female lead | Nation and family The court of the Great Qi dynasty is in turmoil, with the struggle for the throne brewing beneath the surface. The Molong cavalry bears down on Zhenmen Pass, where starving, freezing soldiers hold the border with their flesh and blood. On the battlefields of a troubled age, it is not only men who march to their deaths. Fu Ziyou brav 558Reads—Score—Shelves
9. 9 何 Why Not Sail Together 何不同舟渡 Xian Yuke羡鱼珂Ancient Romance483k WordsCompleted "The print edition under the same title is available to buy online" [No golden finger, no transmigration, no rebirth. A pure historical romance about family and country, with high-IQ espionage and political intrigue] [A double agent undercover + a petty thief who grows: a lone wolf plays a game of raising a rabbit, gives her fangs, then insists they run away together] In a chaotic age, she is a thief worth less than a blade of grass, willing to do whatever it takes to stay alive. She steals ten 142kReads9.7Score108kShelves

   Reader note

   Let me highlight a few key aspects of the book. 1. Well-developed characters: Both protagonists and supporting characters are fleshed out and relatable. For example, Nan Yi is a character who undergoes significant growth. From a ruthless thief who would stop at nothing to survive, she matures into a responsible and intelligent woman after experiencing numerous hardships. Her resilience and tenderness are vividly portrayed. Xie Queshan, as a double agent, endures humiliation and hardship, concealing his inner warmth with a cold exterior amidst the power struggles of the court. His complexity and deep affection are also impressive. 2. A gripping plot: The story is tightly plotted, full of suspense and plot twists. The book incorporates numerous elements of espionage and political intrigue, with various forces fiercely vying for the throne, intelligence, and territory. The high-stakes intellectual battles between the characters are particularly exciting. For example, the strategic maneuvering between Xie Queshan, Zhang Yuehui, and Wanyan Puruo is captivating. Meanwhile, Nan Yi's experiences after being captured by Xie Queshan, and her training in the military camp, are full of drama and tension. 3. Thematic Depth: The work transcends a simple love story, exploring deeper themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the relationship between family and nation. Set against the backdrop of the chaotic Song Dynasty, it showcases the close intertwining of individual and national destinies, prompting readers to reflect on individual values ​​and beliefs within the context of a grand historical era. Many characters face choices between loyalty and sacrifice, their actions embodying patriotism and love for their country. Characters like Xie Xiaoliu and Pang Yu, loyal to the emperor and patriotic, are concerned for the common people and willing to sacrifice their lives for their nation and people.

10. 10 昭 Zhaodeng 昭灯 Mountain Rain and Cloud Letter山雨云笺Ancient Romance79k WordsOngoing A sudden twist derails an assassination mission. Amid the flash of blades, the Dark Soul assassin Jiang Yaoyao unexpectedly collides with Lin Yixiao, the newly appointed young master of Xuanjiu Hall, returning victorious from the frontier. Suspicion defined their first encounter, deliberately placed between them. Doubt raised high walls, and their contest never ceased, as bizarre intrigues and strange forces lurked deep within the treacherous court. The two went from guarding against each other 40Reads—Score—Shelves
11. 11 听 Tales of Listening to the Waves 听澜录 A Grain of Rice Cat一栗猫Ancient Romance344k WordsCompleted [No transmigration or rebirth. Historical political intrigue and mystery + two powerful leads drawn to each other + an old case from the borderlands] [A wandering woman who enters the game under an assumed name × a cold-faced border general who clawed his way out of a heap of corpses] The day Ye Tinglan arrived in Shuozhou, her contact was killed at the city gate. She had only meant to retrieve an old ledger, but was forced to stay in the general's residence, where she became the female bookkeep 3.7kReads8.7Score769Shelves
12. 12 惹 Offending the Imperial Daughter 惹金枝 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted (Film and television rights have been sold. The physical book will be available for preorder on July 10 at 19:00.) Shi Buyu was born smiling. At that moment, lightning flashed and thunder roared, collapsing a row of outbuildings in the Shi family compound. Days of torrential rain brought devastating floods and countless victims. Rumors soon spread through the capital that she was a disaster star sent into the world. But she was as precocious as a demon, with a photographic memory, and learned bo 257.8kReads9.7Score30.2kShelves

    Reader note

    Legend has it that whoever possesses a seven-aperture exquisite heart will rule the world. Initially, the male lead was astonished by the female lead's beauty, and the female lead was astonished by the male lead's shamelessness.

13. 13 开 The Kaiyuan Strategy Chronicles 开元谋世录 Apple Tower苹果塔Historical372k WordsOngoing Lan Shi was a modern-day historian who unexpectedly transmigrated into the body of a powerless minor official during the prosperous Kaiyuan era. He keenly sensed the crises lurking beneath the surface splendor: not only were rival factions within the imperial court openly scheming for power, but foreign enemies were also watching, poised to invade. Wu Hua was an unloved illegitimate daughter of a noble family. Though trapped in hardship, she had a strong sense of duty. After the two met, they de —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    They're all pretty good, but my favorite is the third one.

14. 14 奸 The Treacherous Minister Wants to Kill Me Every Day 奸臣每天都想弄死我 Qian Ran Jun Xiao千苒君笑Ancient Romance2.6M WordsCompleted Su Huai is a powerful court official, and everyone fears him. He only likes playing power games and scheming against others. He has no interest in women. Then one day, a young woman shows up at his door, claiming to be his fiancée. Su Huai: Want to date me? Lu Yao: What kind of date? Su Huai: The kind that could cost you your life. Lu Yao: ... Later, Lu Yao bitterly regrets her impulsive decision to show up and claim him as her fiancé. When she tries to call it quits, everyone urges her to recon 13.5kReads9.1Score1.4kShelves
15. 15 综 Film and TV Crossover: When the Cannon Fodder Gets the Wrong Script 综影视：当炮灰拿错剧本 Yu Qingqing御卿卿Female-Channel Fanfiction896k WordsOngoing [A little bit of a universal heartthrob + female supporting character turns her fate around + Qing Palace + golden finger + wish fulfillment] Reader's Guide: She's a cannon-fodder female supporting character, rewriting her fate in real time. Her peculiar golden finger specializes in putting all kinds of unruly people in their place. The Nine Princes' succession struggle + Empresses in the Palace + Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace, across multiple timelines... What happens when a cannon-fodder cha 556Reads8.1Score—Shelves
16. 16 山 Beauty and Strategy in a Land of Rivers and Mountains 山河美人谋 Moonset月落Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Proud young lady who always gets even vs. frail, scheming Ninth Prince] Her fiancé was a total jerk, and he was planning to kill her to keep her quiet. Ye Jiao decided to strike first and find a scapegoat while she was at it. She thought the scapegoat would be a transparent, sickly “living corpse,” but rumors were misleading. He was clearly a two-faced, deeply cunning Ninth Prince. After Ye Jiao used the Ninth Prince’s name to punish her scumbag fiancé, Li Ce, the real Ninth Prince: “Miss, I be 18.3kReads9.5Score2.5kShelves

    Reader note

    These books are all excellent; they are all my favorites.

17. 17 综 Film and TV Crossover: The Male Supporting Character Is the Golden Finger 综影视：男配才是金手指 Yu Qingqing御卿卿Female-Channel Fanfiction13.5M WordsCompleted I have a System! That's my golden finger!! ... Come to think of it, it seems like, more or less, maybe... (The System has cried itself unconscious in the bathroom.) Tips for bonus chapters are in the comments! 3.4kReads8.8Score135Shelves
18. 18 幺 The Youngest Daughter, Changle 幺女长乐 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted Miss Zhu Si’s rough fighting skills have always made her the laughingstock of the capital’s noble families. In everyone else’s eyes, that’s the sort of work meant for household guards. Zhu Changle, who considers herself invincible, isn’t ashamed of it. She’s proud. Not everyone can protect their own home, but she can! And then some! She’d even turn the whole capital upside down to protect it! Don’t believe her? Try her! 18.7kReads9.5Score3.1kShelves
19. 19 飞 After Failing to Ascend, I Became the Little White Emperor 飞升失败后成了小白皇帝 Wine God, Green Grape酒神葡萄绿Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted A male-lead, no-romance, ancient-world kingdom-building story with a golden finger: he’s the only cultivator in the world Synopsis: After transmigrating to the cultivation world and failing to ascend, I’m reborn as a prince in an ancient kingdom. The good news is that this world has spiritual energy, so I can keep cultivating. The bad news is that the throne somehow falls into my lap. I have to be a good emperor and cultivate the Dao properly. My dream of ascending hasn’t changed. You people nee 11kReads9.3Score877Shelves
20. 20 太 The Empress Dowager Reborn: A Phoenix’s Plot for the Empire 太后重生：凤谋天下 Gu Yu孤妤Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted [Strong heroine + ensemble cast + political intrigue] Reborn, she turns the world into a board and all living beings into pieces. She is the one pulling the strings behind the scenes. Slender, pale hands, an icy gaze She moves her pieces, a faint smile on her lips Why should beauty worry? Reborn, risen from the ashes A phoenix’s schemes hide in her lotus-bloom bones Her name will live on in the annals of history Willow branches in her hometown, the moon a hook She watches generals and princes 1.3kReads9.0Score185Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a must-read for any ancient Chinese romance novel focusing on political intrigue! The female protagonist is reborn and uses the world as her chessboard, with all living beings as pawns; she is the mastermind behind the game. The male protagonist is a war god prince with a heart for his country and its people, who later reveals his true colors, becoming cunning and ruthless, strategizing and plotting step by step. The two leads are both incredibly strong, possessing high emotional and intellectual intelligence, supporting each other in a captivating way! This book goes beyond palace intrigue and domestic power struggles; it weaves together crime-solving suspense, the struggle for the throne, national sentiment, brotherhood, the battlefield of officialdom, and conspiracies—a grand and intricately plotted novel.

21. 21 冷 The Cold King's Stolen Consort: His Side Consort Is No One's Plaything 冷王盗妃，侧妃不承欢 Moonrise in the Clouds月出云Ancient Romance544k WordsCompleted They were betrothed for eight years, and she waited in vain for four. When he finally came, he was holding another peerlessly beautiful woman in his arms. In a single night, she went from principal consort to secondary consort. Deep within the marquis's estate, she endured the loneliness in silence. She neither fought for his favor nor accepted his affection. She had thought that if she helped him and stood by him through every hardship, they would soar together as a pair, and in the end she wou 232Reads8.9Score156Shelves

    Reader note

    These are all top-notch historical romance novels; you absolutely must read them. The male and female leads are intelligent and their political intrigue is a key element.

22. 22 我 Am I Really the Ming Emperor's Eldest Grandson? 我真是大明皇长孙？ rs90Historical233k WordsOngoing My name is Zhu Ying, and I transmigrated to the Hongwu era of the Ming dynasty, just after Crown Prince Zhu Biao had died. Recently, I met an old man with considerable influence at court who insists on claiming me as his grandson… Several years later… Zhu Yuanzhang: “Dear grandson, why aren’t you coming up to take the throne?” Zhu Ying was dumbfounded. “I’m really the eldest imperial grandson?” Zhu Yuanzhang laughed. “That’s right. You’re my dear grandson, Zhu Xiongying! On that rai 1Reads8.0Score—Shelves
23. 23 宠 He Spoiled His Concubine and Neglected His Wife. Reborn, I Broke Off My Engagement to the Scumbag and Married the Prince 宠妾灭妻，重生我退婚渣男嫁王爷 Zhi Zhi之知Ancient Romance640k WordsCompleted The physical book is available on all major platforms. Formerly titled Riding the Phoenix. [Reborn + Powerful Female Lead and Male Lead + Nation and World + Political Schemes] Before the age of seventeen, Shen Yu was the legitimate daughter of a military family who could wield a blade and charge into battle. After seventeen, she became the frail wife of Jiang Manor's Vice Minister Jiang. Her father and brothers died in battle, and the entire Shen family was honored for their loyalty. Bearing 88.8kReads9.5Score12.2kShelves
24. 24 陛 Your Majesty, the Frail Beauty Deserves to Be Cherished 陛下，病弱美人得娇养 Little Highness小殿下Two Male Leads763k WordsCompleted [Yandere + Mutual Devotion + Redemption] The young official of the Court of Judicial Review, a sickly beauty who pants with every step, is actually a treacherous minister despised by everyone. Mo Yanyu: “Everyone in this world wants to be a gentleman. Since that’s the case, I’ll be the villain.” He is ruthless and merciless, and everyone steers clear of him. One day, Mo Yanyu says, “I think we could work together.” A haughty prince raises an eyebrow. “That depends on how sincere you are.” Mo Yan 2.6kReads9.5Score454Shelves

    Reader note

    Give it a gentle push.

25. 25 陛 Your Majesty! The Imperial Physician Is Plotting a Rebellion 陛下！太医要造反了 Yan Ge彦戈Two Male Leads505k WordsCompleted [Alternate Setting + Two Male Couples, Both Pure and Powerful + Ancient Court Intrigue] Synopsis: Liu Xunfeng has just arrived in the capital when Emperor Xiao Yan, traveling incognito, discovers his exceptional medical skills and takes him to the palace to repeatedly save the same person. “If you can’t cure her, you’ll answer for it!” “If she dies, your entire clan will be executed!” Liu Xunfeng is finally driven to the brink and confronts Xiao Yan to his face. “You’re the one who torments her 105Reads—Score—Shelves
26. 26 重 Reborn, I Become My Arch-Enemy's Living Widow Sister-in-Law 重生后，我成了死敌的活寡嫂子 Two Times Four Means Prosperity二四得发Ancient Romance517k WordsCompleted [Both leads are reborn + sister-in-law and brother-in-law + an aloof beauty brought down from her pedestal + emotional push and pull + winning her heart and her body + devoted couple] The Eastern Palace has no crown prince, and the princes are locked in a fierce struggle for the throne. Ning Miao and Yan Mobai are the top strategists of their generation, each serving a different master. They cross paths over a map of iron mines and kill each other. Only after her death does Ning Miao learn tha 39.2kReads9.4Score5.8kShelves
27. 27 帝 The Divine Emperor's Abandoned Consort: The Godly Doctor 帝凰之神医弃妃 A Cai阿彩Ancient Romance5.1M WordsCompleted [New Book Recommendation: The Imperial Physician's Consort] On her wedding day, she awakens in the countryside, dressed in rags. Amid the scorn of the crowd, she steps into the imperial capital, leaving bloody footprints behind... She is an orphan with neither father nor mother, bullied by everyone. He is The Outcast, a ruthless prince second only to the emperor and superior to all others. She is covered in wounds and utterly disheveled. He stands apart from the world, peerless in grace and bear 5.9kReads9.0Score696Shelves
28. 28 以 Scheming for the Throne 以权谋君 You Sui有绥Two Male Leads212k WordsCompleted When Wei Chun was eighteen, he wandered by mistake into Zhaohe Hall, the residence of Si Yan, the only prince of Emperor Si Liang. There he met the young, innocent Si Yan and fell in love at first sight. He never managed to leave that moment behind. In the years that followed, Wei Chun, who wielded great power and commanded a mighty army, granted Si Yan everything he wanted and helped him do whatever he wished. Yet though Wei Chun made his feelings so clear, Si Yan never once spared him a glance 995Reads9.3Score129Shelves

    Reader note

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ① The male lead is a prince who enters the palace disguised as a eunuch, all for revenge. The story is filled with palace intrigue and ruthless power struggles. ② It features two male leads. The emperor orchestrates a grand scheme to be with his beloved. This love story intertwined with political intrigue is highly recommended. The cunning and power struggles of the court, and the emperor's strategies, are all exceptionally well-written.

29. 29 春 Spring Banquet 春日宴 Egrets in Pairs白鹭成双Ancient Romance664k WordsCompleted She kept male favorites and toyed with powerful ministers! For eight years, the arrogant and tyrannical Princess Danyang, Li Huaiyu, wreaked havoc across the court and country. She died on the day the new emperor ascended the throne, bleeding from every orifice in a truly gruesome death. The officials celebrated and the people rejoiced: Evil gets what it deserves! Good riddance! Yet on the seventh day after her death, Princess Danyang returned to life in the body of the Bai family’s Fourth Mis 13.6kReads9.4Score2.3kShelves
30. 30 却 Yet You Betrayed the Spring's Grace 却负春恩 See Fortune at First Sight, Meow一见生财瞄Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Print edition now available. Search for Ascending to the Clouds on any platform to buy] [Original titles: Ascending to the Clouds / Loathing the Vermilion Walls] [High-IQ Palace Intrigue + Pure-Hatred Heroine + No Disposable Characters] [No transmigration, no rebirth, no golden finger] [The blurb doesn’t do it justice. Please go read the story] How do you become an emperor’s favorite concubine? A prestigious family? A good education? A gentle, respectful, modest, and accommodating nature? Unfor 25.3kReads9.2Score3.2kShelves
31. 31 长EN After the Grand Princess Is Reborn, the Chief Grand Secretary Can No Longer Sit Still 长公主重生后，首辅大人坐不住了 Dong Chichi董迟迟Ancient Romance476k WordsCompleted [Rebirth + Political Intrigue + Powerful Hero and Heroine + Plenty of Foreshadowing + Serious Ensemble Cast] [Charming, Alluring, Sweet-Natured Yet Cunning Eldest Princess + Autocratic, Possessive Chief Grand Secretary] [Important: This is NOT a wish-fulfillment novel!!!] As a princess, Zhao Huiluan lived in luxury and honor, yet died in the prime of her life. Reborn, she finally realized that all the countless honors and favors she had once been proud of were nothing but illusions. Power is saf 5.4kReads9.2Score744Shelves

    Reader note

    Everyone's got brains; it's all about court intrigue! The female lead is patient and calculating, a master of manipulation, gradually rising from the inner court to the imperial court. The male lead comes from humble beginnings; at seven, he signed a contract selling himself into servitude, becoming a wealthy young master. He achieves top honors in the imperial examinations, entering officialdom and rising from the Hanlin Academy to the Grand Secretariat, becoming a powerful minister wielding immense influence. The early stages involve fighting rebellious officials and seizing power; the later stages involve implementing new policies, breaking through obstacles, and saving himself!

32. 32 昭 The Chaos of Zhaohua 昭华乱 See Fortune at First Sight, Meow一见生财瞄Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Available in print. Search "Zhaohua Rebellion" on any platform to purchase.] [Strong female lead, satisfying revenge, high-IQ palace intrigue, the heroine schemes against the entire harem, a dangerously unhinged antagonist] Song Zhao has always been a woman who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, and she has always seen the world more clearly than anyone else. From the moment she learned that Xiao Jingheng had chosen her to enter the palace as a consort, her goal was crystal clear: "I en 87.6kReads9.5Score9.7kShelves

    Reader note

    The author of *Xi Hua Zhi* has several works, including: *Ruo Jin Zhi* (Rebirth, Strong Female Leads, Dual Roles, Family and Country, Political Intrigue), *Yin Feng Gui* (High-IQ Palace Intrigue, Pampered Wife), *Zhao Hua Luan* (Business Intelligence, Espionage, Family and Country), *He Tong Tong Zhou Du* (Ancient Romance, Palace Intrigue, Childhood Sweethearts), and *Fu Chun Qing* (Sweet Romance, Intelligent Political Intrigue), *Jiao Gu* (Delicate Bones). ❤️ Whether you like them or not is up to you! 😊🌷

33. 33 赐 After the Imperial Betrothal, the Princess Consort Just Wants the Prince to Keep Her Alive 赐婚后，王妃只想靠王爷续命 Zha Xiaogua扎小瓜Ancient Romance411k WordsCompleted A historical romance: marriage first, love later. Both leads are intelligent, articulate, and quick-witted. No angst, no silly characters, and sweet moments throughout. Originally titled Who Dares to Define Romance. Everyone in the capital regards Prince Yong as untouchable. Gu Qing is the only exception. Desperate for a life-saving medicine, she takes advantage of the emperor’s arranged marriage and weds Prince Yong, unaware that he is also gravely ill with a deadly poison. She is calm and rati 6kReads9.4Score746Shelves

    Reader note

    Completed novel, political intrigue, both male and female leads are intelligent and capable, with a focus on family, country, and the world.

34. 34 明 A History of the Ming Palace 明代宫闱史 Xu Xiaotian许啸天Historical734k WordsCompleted Venture deep into the palace to explore the love and hatred between emperors and their consorts; delve into history and discover the twists and turns of feudal dynasties. Understand this series, and you understand the palace. Understand the palace, and you understand history. Understand history, and the realities of the world become clear. Palace romances are an important branch of traditional historical fiction. 40.9kReads9.6Score710Shelves

    Reader note

    Discovering historical literature is a treasure trove of political strategies.

35. 35 红 Secret Records Behind the Red Walls: A Complete History of China's Unofficial Past, Unabridged 红墙秘录：中国野史大全（无删节完整版） Xu Xiaotian许啸天Historical2.7M WordsCompleted This complete collection is like a secret key unlocking the hidden chambers of China's imperial past, guiding readers into shadowy corners that official histories leave shrouded in secrecy. From the ancient legends of Unofficial History of the Xia and Shang to the imperial passions and court intrigues of The History of the Imperial Harem in the Song Dynasty, The History of the Imperial Harem in the Ming Dynasty, and Unofficial History of the Yuan Dynasty; from the extravagant excesses of The Ero 1.6kReads9.3Score256Shelves
36. 36 岳 The Legend of Yue Fei 岳飞传 Lord of the Pearl-Returning Tower还珠楼主Historical161k WordsCompleted A historical epic novel by Huan Zhu Lou Zhu. Based on the life of Yue Fei, the famous Southern Song general who fought against the Jin, it begins with Yue Fei learning martial arts as a boy and vowing to serve his country. It vividly depicts how he formed the Yue Family Army, fought the Jin forces, and won one victory after another, until he was framed by treacherous officials and met a tragic end. The novel celebrates his unwavering loyalty and devotion to his country. 884Reads9.6Score—Shelves
37. 37 隋 The Warlord at the End of the Sui Dynasty 隋末枭雄 Successful Candidate及第Historical246k WordsOngoing [Warfare and conquest] + [Court intrigue] + [No System] + [No harem] + [Transmigration] The Sui has lost its prize, and the heroes of the land are vying for it. In the ninth year of Daye under the Sui, Yang Xuangan’s rebellion at Liyang is defeated, and he dies. His friend Li Mi flees alone, a fugitive with nowhere to turn. Shen Yan, a modern archaeology student, unexpectedly transmigrates his soul into the body of Li Mi, fleeing through the final years of the Sui Dynasty, fourteen hundred years 79Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Absolutely captivating historical intrigue novels

38. 38 四 The Legend of the Four Barbarians' Script Translators 1: The Female Official 四夷译字传奇1（又名：女官） Little Fox Ruwei小狐濡尾Ancient Romance329k WordsCompleted [The First Female Court Translator VS the Devoted Great General. A historical romance masterpiece by Xiao Hu Ru Wei. Watch the heroine become a respected translator and diplomat after joining the Four Barbarians Bureau: she travels to Fusang, translates state documents, performs diplomatic rites, and designs cannons!] From birth, Zuo Junzhi was surrounded by dazzling prestige: her father was the son of the Left Chancellor, and her mother was a princess of Usi Zang and queen of Gaochang. Yet bene 176Reads9.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The once-renowned storyteller, known as "Little Master," was young and impetuous, her careless words earning her the nickname "Little Traitor Zuo Junzhi," which implicated her father. Zuo Junzhi, granddaughter of the Left Chancellor, was a voracious reader and fluent in foreign languages. Despite being a woman, she possessed the foresight and ambition of a man, a desire to govern the country and bring peace to the world. Her dazzling talent earned her the appreciation of the Three Wonders Book Bureau and the Emperor's favor. Storytelling, writing social novels, and working at the Four Barbarian Institute—Zuo Junzhi initially thought she was just a lowly translator, but she never imagined she would be so drawn into the quagmire of court intrigue. Unable to foresee the future, she was filled with fear, but this fear never deterred her.

39. 39 九 Ninefold Brocade 九重锦 Evening Breeze Under the Moon月下晚风Ancient Romance715k WordsCompleted Household and palace intrigue, with the leads not both being each other's first. A fictional setting, with all ranks and titles made up. A heroine who grows over time and isn't blinded by love. After being suppressed for more than a decade, a concubine-born daughter has her fate rearranged overnight. Entering the prince's manor only fuels her ambition. Her birth father ignores her, allowing her stepmother to torment her and her mother for half their lives without ever offering them the slightest 33.5kReads9.3Score5.8kShelves

    Reader note

    A super captivating historical romance novel with a political intrigue theme. The protagonist is a clear-headed and progressively intelligent woman who sees men merely as stepping stones on her path to success. It's a tale of a concubine's daughter rising to power; she simply wants to be superior, so what if she's a little cunning?

40. 40 伏 Ambush 伏杀 Mo Bai1莫白1Historical1.4M WordsCompleted [Original title: Ambush] Beneath the awe-inspiring might of Heaven, all living beings are mere ants. And yet he dares, with the strength of an insect, to turn the world upside down. For family, for friends, for the burning hatred in his heart, for the nightmares that haunt him year after year, for justice, and for fairness. This story is set in an imaginary world and has no connection to actual history. Everything in it is fictional. Any similarities are purely coincidental. 14.8kReads8.3Score931Shelves

    Reader note

    Top think tanks from various fields compete on the same stage, employing diverse strategies and offering a wealth of engaging content.

41. 41 上 Spring Affairs in the Capital 上京春事 Egrets in Pairs白鹭成双Ancient Romance400k WordsCompleted Ning Chaoyang rises to become a fourth-rank female official, yet still can’t escape the fate of being traded into a political marriage. She decides to take in a lover to fight back. He must be lowborn, handsome, and preferably too frail to look after himself. She glances to the side and spots a charming young doctor in white. 5.7kReads9.3Score884Shelves

    Reader note

    The first book is about political intrigue, featuring two strong protagonists who engage in a battle of wits and courage in the imperial court. The second book features two male protagonists: one who aspires to rule the world and realize his ideals, and the other who only desires a peaceful life with the one he loves.

42. 42 北 Old Dreams of Beiming 北冥旧梦 Xingwan Qingqing星晚青青Historical170k WordsOngoing A commoner rises to become a prince of a different surname? The court is full of pawns, while the martial world is brimming with loyalty and affection. At court, one step takes me to the summit. In the martial world, one step makes me a celestial being. My family's vendetta and the war for the nation are both tied to me. —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Fans of ancient Chinese political intrigue shouldn't miss this! The thrill of martial arts battles is combined with the suspense of court intrigue, while the emotional storyline is subtle and restrained, with one twist after another.

43. 43 棠 The Tangyin Cases 棠阴比事 Written by Gui Wanrong桂万荣撰15k WordsCompleted [Ancient Crime Investigation | Ancient Forensic Science | Solving Bizarre Cases | Unraveling Mysteries with Reason] Without surveillance cameras or DNA, how did people in ancient times solve unusual cases? A collection of case judgments handed down from the Song dynasty records more than 70 real major cases found in official histories. A stepmother's murder of her husband sparks a bloody family tragedy; a wife conspires with her lover to kill her husband and disguises his death as an accident; f 35Reads8.0Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I just finished reading a suspenseful historical romance novel.

44. 44 荆 The Wind Rises in Jingdu, Awaiting the Coming Rain 荆都风来待雨临 Rain Falls on Jingdu雨落荆都Historical1.9M WordsOngoing Overnight, a young blacksmith from a shop in Shengang becomes the last surviving grandson of a powerful family of scholars, whose influence once reached the highest halls of government. A pigeon’s whistle marks the way home, and old books conceal a conspiracy. With a nameless sword in hand, carrying his grandfather’s hopes and his adoptive father’s instructions, he steps into the turbulent world of Jingdu. The Shanfu Academy, deep within the Imperial College, is no ordinary place of learning. It 105Reads8.7Score125Shelves

    Reader note

    The young man returns, solely to uncover the past and defy imperial power.

45. 45 山 The Moon Shines on the Mountain 山有明月 Kui Ziqi夔子期Ancient Romance272k WordsCompleted [Sweet and versatile merchant heroine vs. sickly, scheming Prince Beijing] No transmigration or rebirth, a pure historical romance + marriage before love + both leads are faithful + two powerful leads + sweet romance + fictional setting Bound by a marriage contract, their lives entwined for good. He is ruthless, and so is she. From plotting against each other to understanding one another, they unravel layers of mystery and carefully plan every move, solving an old case and seizing the throne. 247Reads8.5Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a pure ancient Chinese romance novel, a marriage of convenience that blossoms into love. The main storyline is complete, so go for it! A marriage contract leads from mutual scheming to mutual understanding. He's ruthless, and she's ruthless too, each plotting their way to overturn old cases and seize power. Two strong, seemingly weak characters with multiple identities, both are virgins.

46. 46 折 The Tortoise Mirror of Legal Cases 折狱龟鉴 Zheng Ke郑克73k WordsCompleted [Ancient Court Cases | Classical Accounts of the Strange | Casebook of Criminal Trials] The Casebook of Judicial Inspection is a classic of Song dynasty jurisprudence, as famous as The Washing Away of Wrongs. It compiles more than 280 true cases, from the Han and Wei dynasties through the Northern Song. Organized by category, it records cases involving clearing the wrongly accused, exposing false charges, investigating adultery, tracking thieves, and more, documenting the entire process by which 33Reads8.7Score—Shelves
47. 47 重 Reborn, I Turn My Fate Around with the System of Noncontention 重生归来，我凭不争系统扭转死局 Wen Qiheng温栖珩Ancient Romance114k WordsOngoing Reborn on the eve of the palace banquet, Su Wanyuan's fingertips brushed against the secret drug hidden in the lining of her gown. In her previous life, she was tricked into making a scene, lost her reputation, and saw her entire family executed. This time, she stayed calm, waiting to tear away her half-sister's gentle facade in front of everyone at the banquet. Before the trouble had even settled, a wooden token etched with a whirlpool pattern led her to a decades-old secret plot involving a 15Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Historical fiction about political intrigue

48. 48 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 4.4kReads9.1Score522Shelves

    Reader note

    These two books by Juejuezi are worth reading.

49. 49 苻 Fu and Pei: Ruling the World Together 苻与裴，共天下 Zi Fei Nanyan子非南雁Two Male Leads246k WordsCompleted [Two Male Leads] [Older Top] [Both Pure] [Both Strong] [Childhood Friends] [This story is set in a fictional world. Historians, please stay away.] After the new emperor, Fu Hong, ascended the throne, he targeted the young Prince of Jibei, Pei You, at every turn. Some said it was because the Pei family had supported the eldest prince in the past struggle for the throne. The second prince, Fu Hong, had launched a coup during the autumn hunt, killed the eldest prince, and seized the throne, so natu 6Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I recommend this book. The author writes well; there aren't many authors who write entirely by hand anymore.

50. 50 三 Three Souls as the Betrothal Gift, Seven Spirits as the Wedding Present 三魂为聘，七魄为礼 All Out肆意满Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Everyone has three hun and seven po souls. Yin Wenjiu has only one hun and one po: an unidentified resentful soul and an unidentified life soul. Both exist to keep her body alive. But she only cares about enjoying the moment. She tells fortunes with perfect accuracy and charges the highest price! She won’t go out of her way to stay alive, nor will she actively seek death. She waited at Yunmeng Marsh for five years. If someone came to save her, she would go with them; if no one did, she would dig 24.4kReads9.3Score3.5kShelves

    Reader note

    A highly-rated masterpiece has arrived! [Thinking] The plot is full of twists and turns, and it's mind-bending.

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