Power Plays, Scheming, and Brainy Strategists 权谋智商布局流

1. 651 踏 Chronicles of the Abyss 踏渊录 Second-in-Command of Sheep Village羊村小二Eastern Fantasy317k WordsOngoing Ning Nian is a poor boy who lost both his parents at a young age. Fortunately, he later inherits his father's post as a patrol officer in the capital, giving him a meager livelihood. All he wants is to live out the rest of his life in peace. But an accident draws him into a shocking conspiracy. The young man struggles to survive in the cracks, and to seize that sliver of hope, he has no choice but to raise the narrow blade in his hand... 17Reads8.2Score—Shelves

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   I'd like to recommend myself; the writing is good, the plot is tight, and the author is intelligent.

2. 652 能 If You Can Be Emperor, Why Be a Princess? 能做皇帝，谁做公主？ Wei Ziyan魏子焉Ancient Romance154k WordsCompleted [Devoted daughter + saving the nation + political intrigue · Female lead has no romance, but does have admirers] [Max combat power + unconventional mind-reading + browser for the current world] Also known as "Saving the Realm" and "Seizing Power Through Reform!" What? I, Gu Nianyu, protect the realm and defend its borders, and someone still wants to stop me from ascending the throne? You must not know that I’m the one who appointed the crown prince! “I, Gu Nianyu, am the late emperor’s elde 71Reads—Score—Shelves

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   A story of political intrigue and intrigue, slow-burning.

3. 653 雀 The Sparrow Pavilion 雀阁 Taibo Gong太伯功Ancient Romance690k WordsCompleted “Those who steal a hook are executed; those who steal a state are made lords!” Power is the authority of a nation! As the ruler of the Northern Empire, Emperor Ming has great ambitions. To create a peaceful and prosperous age, he executes rebellious traitors, puts corrupt officials to death, and establishes the Sparrow Pavilion! The Sparrow Pavilion is the empire’s highest intelligence agency, a secret service personally established by Emperor Ming. Death hangs in the air here, accompanied by a 3Reads—Score—Shelves

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   Ancient political intrigue novels

4. 654 开 From the Start on a Late Ming Battlefield: Three Kills in My Debut 开局明末战场，首秀三连杀 Simple2023简单2023Historical1.0M WordsCompleted [Late Ming + war + a soldier's perspective + not a power fantasy + an ordinary man's resolve to defend his home and country] The whole court curses and vows to destroy the barbarians; a mighty army marches forth from the borderlands! What is the use of grand ambitions? At Sarhu, a lake of blood was left behind. I am Wang Jiu, one of the most ordinary people in the great tide of transmigrators, and an utterly inconspicuous foot soldier on the battlefields of the late Ming. In historians' account 2.7kReads9.0Score191Shelves

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   Of all the Ming Dynasty novels, this is the only one I truly believe in for its realism, and it has lived up to its reputation as a bestseller. [Laughs] The portrayal of ordinary people is incredibly vivid, and the depiction of power struggles is brilliant, especially on the battlefield where the protagonist leads from the front. Important: No system.

5. 655 哈 Harry Potter: If the Villain Isn't Ruthless, He Won't Keep His Position 哈利波特：反派不狠，地位不稳 Eighth Month, Sixteenth Day捌月拾六Male-Channel Fanfiction1.0M WordsCompleted [Dark Draco + No romance/no heroine + A battle of wits + Scheming and plotting + Focused on building a career + No golden finger + Not an especially indulgent power fantasy] After Draco is knocked unconscious by a Bludger to the head during a Quidditch Match, he wakes up with memories of the future. Draco Malfoy takes stock of his past mistakes and decides to become a proper villain. If you're going to be a villain, you have to act like one. Everything for the glory of Malfoy “Every sacrifice i 2.8kReads9.3Score372Shelves

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   The protagonist is a character who grows and develops, but to be fair, little Malfoy is really cute. It's not an invincible story; the protagonist is the type who slowly grows and sets up the whole game.

6. 656 侧 The Side Consort Arrives, Joining the Crown Prince in Rebellion, War, and the Rise to Emperor and Empress 侧妃驾到，携太子造反出征成帝后 Za Qi杂柒Ancient Romance458k WordsCompleted My first book wasn’t very well written. [Harem intrigue + political scheming + two powerful leads + revenge] He is Xiao Junze, a warm and gentle yet calculating Crown Prince with a devoted heart. She is Lin Qingyue, a cool-headed, clever side consort who has no desire to enter the palace. He says, “Qingyue, I’m afraid you’ll destroy the obsession I’ve held onto for ten years.” She says, “Junze, I’m willing to build a golden age with you.” As dangers close in at court, their feelings for each oth 14Reads6.6Score—Shelves

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   Strong male and strong female leads! The female lead is the Crown Princess, who works with the Crown Prince to outwit the court and clear her family's name! The plot is logically sound. The initial rating was a bit low, but it's a great read!

7. 657 书 The Tale of Scholar Ji 书生纪 Ink-Stained Orchid墨染幽兰Historical364k WordsCompleted [History + alternate world + fantasy + wuxia + court politics + the martial world + poetry + clever characters] [No transmigration] [No System] [No harem] What is the martial world? Some say it is the life of wine and women, wild and unrestrained, enjoyed by spoiled young masters; Some say it is gallant heroes roaming the land with swords, savoring every triumph and settling every score; Some say it is rival sects and a contest for supremacy among the martial world’s leaders; Some say it is acto 28Reads8.9Score—Shelves

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   The letter reads: Your Highness, it is as if we are meeting in person. More than twenty years ago, the world was in chaos, and heroes rose up everywhere. Your Highness, together with Prince Qin, successively destroyed the Southern Barbarians, pacified the Western Xia, repelled the Eastern Liao, and resisted the Northern Mongols, thus gaining the Qin region. Although the Qin region is vast and sparsely populated, with many warriors but few scholars, it was hard-won, and I hope Your Highness will cherish it. Since the world was pacified, lands have been divided and kings have been enfeoffed. Qi, Wu, and Chu are all rich lands, and the kings of these regions are also members of the royal family. Your Highness should handle them carefully. The kings of Jin and Nanyue, although also members of the royal family, are distant from the royal family, and they can be of assistance. Yan is cold and harsh, and Shu is barren, but the kings of these regions, like Your Highness, are of different surnames. The royal family eliminates dissidents, and Qin, Yan, and Shu should help each other. In my humble opinion, although the world is at peace now, what is divided will eventually unite, and what is united will eventually divide. There will be great chaos within ten years. The Qin region is exhausted, and Your Highness should plan for its future as soon as possible. His Highness Prince Qin's five adopted sons are all capable. If the world falls into chaos, all five can serve as advisors. Li Ren is both scholarly and martial, possessing strategic acumen; he is a true military leader, hence His Highness has assigned him to the Northern Pass for training. Li Yi and Li Li both possess unparalleled bravery, upright character, and military knowledge; they can serve as vanguard generals. The fourth son, Li Zhi, is brilliant and resourceful, having fully inherited his master's teachings; he can assist His Highness in devising strategies. However, Zhi's experience is still limited, and he cannot be fully trusted, lest he become a mere armchair strategist. The fifth son, Li Xin, is cunning and adept at acquiring wealth; therefore, His Highness has entrusted him with business in Jiangnan to supply the military and ensure logistical support. To safeguard His Highness's safety and the peace of the Prince's residence, His Highness has trained twelve elite warriors over ten years, each named after one of the twelve earthly branches: Zi, Chou, Yin, Mao, Chen, Si, Wu, Wei, Shen, You, Xu, and Hai. The twelve loyal warriors are all utterly devoted; Your Highness need not worry. These twelve warriors may be hidden in the wilderness, in the city, in the army, or in the royal palace; there is no need to search for them deliberately. A general's duties are to be quiet and discreet, and to govern with righteousness. Governing a large army is like governing a small one—this is about division of labor; fighting a large army is like fighting a small one—this is about strategy and tactics. A skilled commander can prevent the enemy from supporting each other, from relying on one another, from helping each other, from uniting their ranks, from scattering their soldiers, and from forming ranks. Act only when it is advantageous, and stop when it is not. Time flies, and Your Highness is nearing fifty and suffers from chronic illness. Your Highness should gain experience early, broaden your understanding, and recruit talented individuals for the Qin region, so as to be prepared for any eventuality. I have written thirteen chapters on military strategy and twenty-four plans, all placed behind a blank memorial tablet; Your Highness should persevere in reading them, for they will surely be of benefit.

8. 658 考 She Died Pursuing the Imperial Exams for Her Husband: Life Is Hard in a Man-Dominated World 考科举因夫掉命，男尊女贵挺难活 It's Never Too Late to Take the Plunge入坑不晚Ancient Romance564k WordsCompleted [Strong female lead] + [political scheming] + [one woman, multiple husbands] + [comedy] You somehow end up in a world where men are revered and women are prized. There are many men and few women. One woman marries three husbands, and women stay home to serve their husbands and raise children. But you’re rebellious to the core and insist on disguising yourself as a man to take the imperial exams. After years of hard study, you finally become the top scholar! You work hard to build a career, but e 828Reads9.0Score105Shelves

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   From commoner to powerful minister. A work of political intrigue.

9. 659 这 This Three Kingdoms Has No Transmigration 这个三国不穿越 Marquis of Xiangping, Defender of the East镇东襄平侯Historical700k WordsCompleted There are fewer and fewer novels about the Three Kingdoms that stick to the official history. This one presents a complete picture of the era, with the schemes and calculations of great figures, the helplessness and laments of ordinary people, incisive analysis, historical figures weighing their decisions, and examinations of the historical context. It features vivid depictions of military strategy and warfare, as well as the complexities of human relationships at every turn. All these elements 221Reads8.8Score—Shelves

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   This is a vivid historical account of the Three Kingdoms period, offering insights into historical events and figures, revealing the strategies, power struggles, interests, and human relationships behind them. It focuses on the geography, military affairs, powerful families, personnel, and intrigues of the Three Kingdoms era. The account maintains a fair and impartial perspective, avoiding bias or prejudice.

10. 660 捻 Snow Flecked with Gold 捻金雪 Ming Yu明与Ancient Romance628k WordsCompleted [Sly scheming minister + clever beauty + unhinged characters + devoted couple + happy ending + sweet romance] Tea comes in red and green; people come in decent and fake. Be sly but not cruel, ruthless enough to hold your ground. Dote on your wife without limits, and know how to love your partner. Sweet, but never cloying. Want to learn? Pay your tuition and come on over... [laughs][laughs][laughs] 239Reads8.1Score—Shelves

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    The world is a game of chess, but who is the one who moves the pieces?

11. 661 洛 Records of the Luoyang Pagoda 洛阳浮屠录 Yun Yuan Shaoze云鸢少泽Two Male Leads472k WordsCompleted (Main story complete) The young master, Sixteenth Lang, of the Duke of Chu's household has been kept at home all day and raised like a sheltered young lady. At last, he works up the courage to run away, only to end up aboard an enemy ship loaded with poison, ready to take on the Tang navy's hundred thousand men. Faced with a victim stabbed until he is covered in bloody holes, it isn't Sixteenth Lang who screams. It's Ashimi, a beautiful Qin-Tang mixed-blood who can't stop clinging to him like a 3Reads—Score—Shelves

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    Buddhism, Taoism, the Western Regions, and foreign lands! A stunningly beautiful mixed-race coroner, a cunning and spoiled young nobleman, and a 996 workaholic young minister—this iron triangle teams up to solve cases! The Wuhu Sea Explosion Case, the Wuliang Pavilion Massacre, the Tibetan Puppet Envoy Case… each case is intricately linked, with unpredictable endings. Explosions, massacres, conspiracies—the blood-stained Tang Dynasty, countless bones beneath its prosperity—where will the mastermind lead this world?

12. 662 两 Breaking the Deadlock Across Two Lifetimes: I Storm the Imperial Stronghold in Ancient Times 两世破局：我在古代捅皇家老巢 Unconcerned with Mountains and Rivers不争山水Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [Comedic transmigration, smart protagonists, equally matched and devoted leads, political intrigue and murder investigations] Forensic pathologist Xia Nanfeng opens her eyes to find a corpse lying beside her! Wait! Why am I poor and crippled? Did I transmigrate? In the blink of an eye, she gets herself into serious trouble and nearly kills the head of the Seventh Palace Bureau. He is cold and suspicious, closing in on her step by step. “Tell me! Who are you really?” “...” She’s just as baffled 338Reads8.2Score—Shelves

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    My new book, a political intrigue novel, is so exciting it's making my CPU explode!

13. 663 刚 I Was Barely Born When the Empress Dowager Used Me to Fight for the Throne! 刚出生，母后就拿我争皇位！ Riding a Wild Boar骑着野猪Historical2.3M WordsCompleted Alternate history, no System, strategy and warfare He was once a prince, but fate left him stranded beyond the frontier. Now the land is shattered and warlords vie for supremacy. How could he, a prince by birth, stay out of it? 1.4kReads7.1Score104Shelves

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    An alternate history, a scheme to conquer the world.

14. 664 乱 Conquering the World in Turbulent Times 乱世之征伐天下 From Within a Book来自书中Historical1.3M WordsOngoing He spent his life waging wars. The world only ever called him a warmonger, bloodthirsty and fond of slaughter. How could they know what he truly thought? Fighting war with war may not be the best strategy, but it is the fastest way... 109Reads—Score—Shelves

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    This one fits the bill. Brothers in arms, beauties of unparalleled charm—no love or hate, no right or wrong—as long as the world is unified, no one and nothing else matters… I plan to finish it at 5 million words. Feel free to check it out when you have time! [Please follow][Please follow][Please follow][Please follow][Please follow][Please follow][Please follow][Please follow][Please follow]

15. 665 通EN The Netherworld Scholar Immortal 通幽小儒仙 You Zi Yin油子吟Eastern Fantasy2.0M WordsCompleted “Where is this?” “Perhaps... the River of Forgetfulness...” “Who are you?” “Wuchang...” “I've never heard of anyone called Wuchang in this world.” “From now on... that's who I'll be!” The soul crosses the River of Forgetfulness, while its thoughts remain on the other shore. What is gained from all beings must be returned to all beings. When Su Mo woke up, he was no longer in his former life. He went to the capital to sit the imperial examinations, but accidentally stumbled into an immortal schem 63.7kReads9.4Score6.7kShelves

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    "This Scholar from the Netherworld" takes you into a bizarre and magnificent mystery of ascension to immortality! The Netherworld scholar, Su Mo, uses the other shore flower to lift the gates of ephemeral life, secretly embarking on the ancient path to immortality, unexpectedly pushing his nemesis, Ji Ting, onto a perilous journey. The incense and sacred stele reveal the mysteries of heaven and earth; the names of the sixty-six prodigies perish within three days, and the ancient prophecy chanted by the brush of the common people conceals deadly intent across the three realms. As Ji Ting clutches the jade slip given to him by Su Mo and ascends step by step, the blood-red truth at the end of the immortal path is revealed—the so-called obsession with immortality is actually a world-shaking game spanning a thousand years! Witness the Netherworld scholar, using a remnant soul as a guide, lays out a world-shaking, yin-yang reversal killing spree at the place where incense has fallen. Here, there is no merciful immortal destiny, only a Netherworld epic where a treacherous Daoist heart dances with blood-red moonlight.

16. 666 萨 Sardo 萨尔多 A Chirping Bird一只啼鸟Eastern Fantasy236k WordsCompleted This book is not suitable for children! As the Sacred Snow Mountain teeters on the brink of collapse, a young boy from the Saldo tribe unexpectedly awakens the “Eye of the Ancestors,” guarded by his people for a thousand years, and inherits the cultivation legacy left behind by the Ice River Immortal. He leads the remnants of the Saldo tribe on a deadly migration, fighting hordes of demon beasts on the Crescent Grassland, standing up to the brutal Wolf-Herding Demon Clan, forging alliances with 169Reads8.6Score—Shelves

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    Everything is under control! A high-quality political intrigue masterpiece is presented! A brand new genre! An epic revenge journey of a woman [heart][heart][heart][heart][heart][heart][heart][heart][heart][heart]

17. 667 军 Pang Tong, the Strategist 军师庞统 The Tavern Sign Is in Sight酒帘在望Historical297k WordsOngoing A Three Kingdoms transmigration story with no System, no dumbing down, and plenty of thrills. Brilliant strategists and venomous advisers take the stage; blades flash as the greatest generals clash. A sneak attack and a stab in the back break an enemy’s backbone in a single battle. Offering a daughter to sue for peace? How could anyone willingly move the capital? Armies march north along multiple routes as the Five Tiger Generals each display their might. Teachers pass their skills to students, 169Reads8.8Score—Shelves
18. 668 凤 The Phoenix's Lament 凤泣凰 Mu Lan Ru Xue慕兰如雪Ancient Romance579k WordsOngoing [Alternate history + xianxia fantasy + political intrigue + historical romance + heroes vying for power + country and people] A mutual journey of devotion and salvation between a general's orphaned daughter and an illegitimate son Set against a chaotic age, the male and female leads grow together. She was born into a general's family, but her father was killed on the border between two countries by a spy sent by the enemy kingdom to infiltrate their ranks. The spy fled into the depths of the for 10Reads—Score—Shelves

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    Newbie here! If you see my post, promise me you'll definitely read it! [Kiss] [Alternate History + Fantasy + Political Intrigue + Ancient Romance + Heroes Competing for Power + Family and Country] A story of mutual devotion and redemption between an orphaned daughter of a military family and a son born out of wedlock in a chaotic world. The male and female leads grow together. She was born into a military family, but her father was killed by a spy sent by an enemy state to infiltrate their territory, dying on the border between two countries. The spy fled to the deep forest of Zijin Mountain and became a mountain bandit king. To avenge his father, her brother took her to live in seclusion in Peach Blossom Village at the foot of Zijin Mountain. Her brother died protecting her, and she was trapped in the bandit's den, seeking revenge for her father's and brother's deaths. He was the most favored son of the emperor, but because of his status as a son born out of wedlock, he was destined to be ineligible for the throne. When he was searching for the emperor in place of his father, he encountered her, who had avenged her father but was being hunted by spies. Before she could even ask him for help, two arrows were released, and with a whoosh, the bandit leader fell to the ground. Their eyes met, and feelings began to blossom. For him, she willingly became a maid, just to stay by his side. He, too, risked his life countless times for her. Years passed, seasons changed. He could no longer live without her. She, in turn, clung to him. However, he was unaware of the many secrets she harbored. As the fog gradually dissipates and their eyes meet again, how will they face each other? (Female-oriented fantasy romance, ancient romance, mutual attraction, all ruthless characters)

19. 669 穿 After Transmigration, Her Whole Family Are Villains 穿越之我全家都是反派 Song Xiangbai宋象白Ancient Romance832k WordsCompleted Content warning: Lots of crude bathroom humor. Don't read while eating. Version One: Jiang Mianmian transmigrates. Her father is a scheming scholar with the face of a kindly man. Her mother has the face of a bodhisattva and the heart of a ruthless killer. Her eldest brother looks simple-minded but is cunning at heart. Her second sister is selfish and sharp-tongued. They were born destined to be villains. To highlight the protagonist's justice, kindness, and greatness, they work hard to do all so 137.2kReads9.6Score16.5kShelves

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    These are all excellent books on political intrigue and strategic planning.

20. 670 我 My Brother and I Both Transmigrated 我和哥哥都穿越了 Xu Tinglan叙亭兰Ancient Romance503k WordsCompleted [Powerful hero humbles himself + Both leads are each other’s only one] You returned from a faraway place, your smile unchanged, as though it still carried the sweet fragrance of plum blossoms. I asked you, “The climate and customs there can’t have been very pleasant, can they?” But you answered calmly, “Wherever my heart finds peace is my home.” Zhang Heng looked at her intently and said, “Yuer, your tears are more precious to me than anything.” “Every drop feels like blood from my own heart.” 938Reads—Score—Shelves

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    Ancient wisdom on strategy and tactics does not involve forcibly lowering one's intelligence.

21. 671 晴 Clear Skies Stretch Far, and Fragrant Grass Grows Lush 晴川历历芳草萋 Xu Tinglan叙亭兰Fantastical Romance475k WordsCompleted [One True Pairing + Growing-Together Romance + A Powerful Partnership + Ensemble of Women] Main couple: A powerful prince of a different surname vs. the legitimate daughter of a military family, a young commandery princess Red robes against white snow. A woman’s body fell from a cliff as a red-eyed man shouted, “Qiqi, no!” Qiqi looked at the tall man walking toward her, as if he had crossed the endless passage of time and the vast changes of the world to reach her. She was calm and restrained, w 91Reads—Score—Shelves
22. 672 我 I Only Wanted to Roam the Martial World, but You Insisted I Become a Marquis 我明明想混江湖，你非逼我当侯爷 A Parting Toast of Wine离别一坛酒Eastern Fantasy1.3M WordsOngoing No transmigration, no rebirth, no golden finger. An original fictional historical martial arts world, where the imperial court is not far above and the martial world is not far away. When Yi Yuntian was eight, he protected five-year-old Mu Xiaoxiao and was imprisoned by order of the foolish former emperor. After twelve years, the emperor’s wise son, Xuanyuan Yi, told me that his father had been somewhat out of line. He not only set me free, but also made me a marquis. What? You’re asking what I 550Reads6.8Score—Shelves

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    An original martial arts world, where the imperial court is not high and the martial arts world is not far away. It is not about rebirth, time travel, or cheat codes!

23. 673 来 The Bad Woman from Prison 来自监狱的坏女人 Who Could Be My Match谁与为偶Mystery1.0M WordsCompleted Original title: The Chaste Police Commissioner: I've Locked Away Your Heart Workplace romance + suspenseful romance + soul swapping + unhinged villainess forces her love + forbidden cop-and-criminal romance + the queen returns I'm Su Yu. The “Goddess of Finance” admired by everyone in the business world. A meticulously planned car accident sent me tumbling from the clouds into the mud. I became the “suspect” everyone cursed and was personally delivered to a detention center. My best friend betra 847Reads9.2Score118Shelves

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    The female protagonist builds an economic empire, but wakes up one day to find herself imprisoned as a financial criminal, suffering from a split personality. The male protagonist is a high-ranking police inspector. In order to escape imprisonment, she activates her second personality, attempting to mislead the police and devising a scheme step by step: either bring him down from his pedestal or escape herself.

24. 674 疯 After Being Reborn, the Mad Beauty Crushes the Powerful and Claims the Throne 疯批美人重生后，脚踩资本成王 Rainbow Bunny Paper彩兔纸Modern Romance500k WordsCompleted [A subtle entertainment-industry backdrop + spy games and mind games] [Reborn | Unhinged beauty | Strong heroine | Love triangle | Revenge | Extreme push and pull | Polite scoundrel | Top-tier star actor | Love triangle | Possessive] In her previous life, the polished scoundrel of an actor treated her like a doll, personally raising her to the heights of fame before brutally casting her down. He used her, drained her dry, and finally sent her to her death with his own hands. Reborn, she return 15Reads—Score—Shelves

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    They taught her to be docile, and she, with the most docile demeanor, handed over the poisoned knife. The revenge in this book is art, the highest form of psychological warfare. You may see her crying, but she's actually laughing; you may see her begging for mercy, but she's actually… closing the net. The most heart-wrenching part of this book isn't being betrayed by the whole world. It's when you finally resolve to become a devil yourself, only to have someone desperately trying to drag you back to earth. That light is too scorching, and too painful.

25. 675 官 The Official’s Ladder: The Secrets of Power! 官梯，权力的奥秘！ Brothers of the Heavenly Emperor天帝兄弟Urban1.1M WordsCompleted Ten Rungs on the Official Ladder. Liu Feng’s career hits a wall, plunging him into the lowest point of his life. At the place where he’s been demoted, he unexpectedly runs into an old acquaintance. From then on, his path through life is smooth sailing. 605Reads—Score108Shelves

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    Absolutely a classic, so beautiful, so incredibly beautiful.

26. 676 人 Rising Through the Ranks of Officialdom! 人在官场：步步攀升！ Brothers of the Heavenly Emperor天帝兄弟Urban1.4M WordsCompleted Lin Feng was too honest, so his career never advanced. His wife, Zhang Meina, left him for money. Faced with a woman's betrayal and the indifference of friends and family, Lin Feng finally saw the harsh realities of society for what they were. Then, unexpectedly, a major opportunity came his way: Secretary Huang transferred him to Xincheng County to serve as the county Party committee secretary. 664Reads8.8Score182Shelves
27. 677 夫 My Wife Is a Fairy, and Everything She Says Is Right 夫人是仙女她说的都对 Sweet Potato's薯地瓜的Ancient Romance486k WordsOngoing (The dazzling, carefree, flirtatious eldest daughter of a Duke's household ✖️ a humble, restrained, handsome young man who refuses to take the bait and has a remarkable background) He had been surrounded by bloodshed since childhood, a man who had clawed his way out of the mud. Covered in filth, how could he ever presume to dream of the bright moon hanging high in the sky? Even reaching out to touch its reflection in the water felt like sacrilege. She had always been a free-spirited breeze, soar 12Reads8.9Score—Shelves

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    The female lead is beautiful and cool, with high EQ and IQ. She's a daughter of a military family, free-spirited and unrestrained. The story unfolds with subtle power struggles and a gradual, loving relationship. Every chapter after the male and female leads meet is so sweet it'll make you smile like a doting aunt! There's no rebirth, no time travel, no system or cheat codes. It's a story of subtle power struggles and a loyal, devoted male lead. Miss, please accept this!

28. 678 凤 Phoenix Feathers and Frosted Splendor 凤羽霜华 Fu Kuchen扶枯尘Ancient Romance215k WordsCompleted [Black Lotus Revenge-Seeking Heroine × Mad Calamity Star | Fated to Destroy Each Other | Beauty Amid White Bones] That night, at eleven, Fusang huddled amid the sea of corpses and blood in the Duke of Zhenguo’s residence, watching the emperor’s guards nail her grandfather’s head to the walls of Wushan City. “Colluding with the enemy? What a fine accusation!” She swallowed the phoenix blood jade in her throat. Seven years later, a cold, striking beauty carrying poison emerged from Wushan, the mo 65Reads—Score—Shelves

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    The political intrigue is brilliant; the plot is incredibly well-developed, and the story moves quickly—it gets even more exciting later on! [Admiration][Admiration]

29. 679 盟 The Mengjin Crossing 盟津渡 Facing South from the Mountain朝山南Historical267k WordsCompleted Also known as The Awakening of the Ferry Boy. Wu Heyuan, a young man from a Yellow River ferry crossing, suffers the massacre of his entire family, and his younger sister goes missing. After delivering a letter to the Weishui Alliance for a mysterious stranger, he becomes Jiang Shang’s disciple and embarks on a path of political intrigue. When his sister is trained to become an enemy nation’s assassin, when his beloved tastes poison to save him from the brink of death, and when his master gives —Reads—Score—Shelves

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    This book is good; the characters are intelligent and the plot is not cliché.

30. 680 穿 Transmigrating to the Upheaval of the Five Barbarians: A Bloodstained Chang'an Sings of War 穿越五胡乱华：血色长安启战歌 Young Master Weinan公子威南Historical564k WordsCompleted Transmigrating means hell from the start! Modern historian Xu Zhaoyuan opens his eyes amid mountains of corpses and rivers of blood during the Five Barbarians’ Upheaval. A Xiongnu blade hangs over his neck, while tens of thousands of refugees, women, and children behind him are on the brink of death. This is a hellish start! A golden finger? I am the golden finger! ✅ Foresight into history: seize the initiative in a chaotic age! ✅ Technological superiority: establish farms along the Wei River, d 18Reads7.8Score—Shelves

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    A cunning scheme to overthrow the Xiongnu, forging a foundation of power through bloodshed—a single blood-stained edict sets the course in Qin State! Chang'an falls, and the Xiongnu wreak havoc. Xu Zhaoyuan, alone, enters Chencang, using a forged blood edict from the Jin Emperor as bait, offering four strategies: "rectifying the title, honoring the princess, forging alliances, and strengthening military preparedness," instantly stirring up the ambitions of Sima Bao, the Prince of Nanyang. He outwardly respects the emperor while secretly controlling Lueyang; he wins over the Di chieftain Pu Hong, feigning a marriage alliance to effectively control his tribe; he uses the Xiongnu prophecy of "grass given to the king" to subdue the powerful warlord. Furthermore, he orchestrates a scheme to drive a pack of wolves into a trap: inciting Jin Zhun to murder the emperor and rebel against Zhao, and luring Liu Yao and Shi Le into mutual slaughter! Watch as a modern sage uses history as a weapon to carve out a path to rebuild the nation amidst the chaos of Xiongnu chieftains and traitors! #MasterChessInATurbulentTimes

31. 681 大 The Great Ming’s Mightiest Ant 大明最强蝼蚁 Feng Yi Jie Jie丰熠节节Historical231k WordsOngoing [No System | Late Yuan, Early Ming | Officialdom and Case-Solving | Power Plays and Wits | Rags-to-Riches Comeback | Meticulous Historical Research] He transmigrates on the eve of the Red Turban Rebellion, facing three capital crimes from the start. A blade rests at his throat, and his life hangs by a thread! A senior corporate auditor and risk-control executive is suddenly reduced to a lowly porter, trampled by anyone who pleases. All he has are a stopped watch, a lighter, and cigarettes. He ca —Reads—Score—Shelves

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    A crime-solving and political intrigue novel without a systematic plot; a risk control expert rises from a lowly death row inmate to achieve his goal through rigorous research. Highly recommended.

32. 682 盛 A Flourishing Age for the Legitimate Daughter: The Prince of War Dotes on His Consort 盛世嫡女：战王宠妃捧上天 Big Apricot大杏子Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted She was the top-ranked ace assassin in the twenty-first century. After transmigrating, she becomes Xie Wanning, the legitimate eldest daughter of the Prime Minister’s household, who had been left to grow up elsewhere. Her birth parents regard her as a bringer of misfortune, her own sisters stab her in the back at every turn, and everyone in the Prime Minister’s household avoids her. But they never imagined that the legitimate daughter would return for revenge with an extraordinary identity. Ever 12.2kReads8.1Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    For those who love historical romance, political intrigue, and powerful alliances, *A Bloodstained Family* is an absolute must-read! 📖 ❄️ A century-old noble family mansion is transformed into a living hell, and the fate of twin sisters is reversed. A shocking conspiracy leads to the massacre of the entire Lin family, staining the land with blood. The surviving twin sisters are forced apart, each growing on a thorny path. On one side, they face hardened armor and desperate struggle for survival; on the other, they navigate the deep palace and the complexities of power. They struggle in the vortex of intrigue, transforming themselves driven by hatred. When the gears of fate turn once more, the two beauties unite—who in the world can stand against them? For those who love historical romance, political intrigue, and powerful alliances, *A Bloodstained Family* is an absolute must-read! 📖

33. 683 搬 She Cleared Out Everything Before Moving to the Countryside, and the Strongest Officer Fell for Her at First Sight 搬空下乡，被最强军官一见钟情了 Tang Ruoqian唐若浅Modern Romance1.6M WordsOngoing [Spirit spring space + all-purpose System + military marriage + fictional setting + devoted to one another + doting husband + multiple births] Jiang Xia, a billionaire who choked to death on a fish bone, wakes up to find she has transmigrated to the 1970s. The first thing she does when she opens her eyes is beat up her scumbag father and stepmother. When she learns that her stepmother schemed to sign the original host up for the youth-educated program, she turns around and sends her stepsister t 67kReads8.6Score4kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommend the excellent historical romance novel "Bloodstained Gate"! Twin sisters return after a bloody battle! ✨ A grand revenge story with two female leads! The elder sister grapples with palace intrigue, while the younger sister distinguishes herself on the battlefield. The male lead is caught in a whirlwind of love and hate. Multiple storylines unfold simultaneously: court politics, battlefield action, and the martial arts world. The logic is strong, and the more you read, the more addictive it becomes – you'll want to stay up all night to watch!

34. 684 满 Lin Daiyu at Max Level: Reforming the Immortal Dao's Elite Families 满级黛玉：整顿仙道豪门 Snail with a Shell背壳的蜗牛Female-Channel Fanfiction1.8M WordsCompleted Lin Shu, a modern prodigy well versed in both the arts and sciences, with knowledge spanning ancient and modern times, died in the prime of her life because of a conspiracy. When she opened her eyes again, she had become the crying infant Lin Daiyu. In this world, the Story of the Stone still existed, but things were far from ordinary! The Jia, Shi, Wang, and Xue families were four immortal cultivation clans that dominated China and monopolized its spiritual ley lines. The Grand View Garden was —Reads—Score—Shelves

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    In a flash, Daiyu's gaze fell upon the incomplete score of the "Pure Heart and Universal Benevolence Mantra" beside her pillow and the silk handkerchief used for practicing talismans. The music of the zither could calm the mind and soul, dispel evil spirits, and the talismans could convey meaning through form and draw upon power…

35. 685 重 Reborn in the World of The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 重生笑傲江湖世界 Author Chen Ran作者陈然Male-Channel Fanfiction740k WordsCompleted The protagonist is reborn in the world of The Smiling, Proud Wanderer. What are the Five Mountains Sword Alliance, the Sunflower Manual, or the Dugu Nine Swords compared to doing whatever you please? The martial world is simply a place where people clash with one another. 47Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Novels suitable for reading in one sitting

36. 686 圣 The Empress of the Shengming Central Empire 圣明中央帝国女帝 Mu Yun Jiu Xiao暮云九霄Ancient Romance720k WordsOngoing [Coming-of-Age Inspiration + The Ex-Chases-His-Wife-to-the-Crematorium + Tyrannical Prince + Coercive Possession + Ancient Court Intrigue + Mutual Devotion] Pan Yu, the fallen princess and the most beautiful woman in Bohai, is coveted and fought over by many. Her former fiancé forcibly takes her for himself, while the wicked crown prince even declares, “Any woman I set my sights on will submit, whether she wants to or not.” A mysterious, carefree young gentleman who understands and admires her a 22Reads9.5Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The political intrigue is brilliant!

37. 687 女 The Female Bank President's Last Resort 女行长的穷途末路 Xu Ci珝慈Modern Romance102k WordsCompleted A teller's act of withholding checks toppled the first domino in the bank run at Yunhai City Commercial Bank. Though bank president Ma Yuquan fought desperately to contain the crisis, she ultimately could not counter the enormous fallout from the sudden disappearance of the bank's major shareholder and the head of its controlling rural bank. Ma Yuquan sensed the situation was full of hidden twists and turns, yet never revealed the secret of who she had been with during her brief disappearance, w 864Reads9.3Score120Shelves

    Reader note

    Recommended. The female bank manager is intelligent, strong-willed, calm, rational, and has sound values. Even when she makes mistakes, she is able to repent and ultimately atones with her death. The story is unique.

38. 688 侯 Marquis, Heir, Stop Kneeling! The White Moonlight Only Flirts, Never Falls 侯爷世子别跪了，白月光她只钓不爱 A Sweet Fish一尾甜鱼Ancient Romance211k WordsCompleted [Cold and ruthless, obsessive minister vs. seemingly delicate, secretly calculating orphan girl vs. noble, upright, devoted young heir] [Father-and-son rivalry] [Revenge after being reborn, deliberate seduction] Everyone says Marquis Pei Qingyan of Dingbei is cold, stern, and uninterested in women, yet he bent over backward for a lowly herb-gathering girl. When he first met her, she was like a little beast struggling through the snowstorms of the northern frontier, begging him to take pity on he 40Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This revenge romance novel is absolutely brilliant! The female protagonist throws herself into the game; love is a disguise, a tactic, and the sharpest sword she can use against her enemy. In this ambiguous game, there is no true love, only winning and losing!

39. 689 破 The Music of the Broken Formation: The Empress Who Lost an Arm 破阵乐：断腕女帝 Subduing Dragons and Binding Tigers擒龙缚虎Historical147k WordsOngoing Female emperor, strong heroine, no romance, political intrigue, war, ruthless decisiveness, conquest of the realm. A hard-edged career woman in a historically grounded setting. No transmigration, no System, no rebirth. Fake political intrigue: planning every step and plotting everything out. Real political intrigue: invite people over, hold a meeting, flip the table. Iconic scenes: “Your Majesty, why are you rebelling?” “Eight hundred men means eight hundred men.” “I came here for a meeting. Wha —Reads6.9Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A male-oriented, fictional story featuring a strong female lead! No time travel, no system, no rebirth, but the empress's iconic scenes are absolutely stunning. It's a thrilling war story, a double dose of excitement in the struggle for supremacy and survival.

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