Looking for Ancient-Style Political Intrigue with a Smart Protagonist Who Plots on a Grand Scale 求古风权谋文，主角智商在线，布局天下

1. 601 钢 Steel and Sunflower 钢与葵 Ripples of a Dream梦的涟漪Eastern Fantasy1.4M WordsOngoing This is a serious, dark-toned epic fantasy set on an imaginary continent. It features multiple protagonists, intricately interwoven plotlines, and a profound world. Its many elements include historical realism, political intrigue, steampunk, Cthulhu, mystery, and character growth. It is a slow burn, but never drags. Welcome to a world that belongs to no heroes. Here, pure light does not triumph over darkness. Instead, faith and fate clash in a bloody struggle. Supernatural powers are not blessin 271Reads9.2Score239Shelves

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   I highly recommend this Western fantasy novel! It meets your requirements! The author's writing style is astonishing. The plot is intriguing, and the characters are deeply moving! It's truly a rare gem.

2. 602 重 Reborn as the High Priest 重生后我成了大祭司 Picking Little Flowers摘小花Ancient Romance109k WordsOngoing Shen Ling'er, the daughter of a wealthy family, is murdered on her wedding day. Her soul enters a female corpse, which turns out to be Sikong Yue, the great priestess of the State of Wei. Forced to impersonate Sikong Yue, Shen Ling'er becomes entangled in a series of schemes and plots, and ends up aiding the very people behind them... —Reads—Score—Shelves

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   The female protagonist swaps souls with someone else and becomes the high priestess of a country, forced into a power struggle. However, she strives to protect everyone around her. She initially believes the king is a tyrannical ruler, but eventually discovers that everything he does is to ensure his people live in a country free from war.

3. 603 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 342Reads8.2Score—Shelves

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   It's a fictional political intrigue novel where the protagonist is intelligent, resourceful, and also funny.

4. 604 从 From Cannon Fodder to Protagonist: Filling In Across Three Thousand Worlds 从炮灰到主角，我在三千世界补位 Yam Gurgling Soup山药咕咕汤Modern Romance2.2M WordsOngoing Female-oriented quick transmigration + male lead's perspective + no redemption + self-serving wish fulfillment. The protagonist is cold and career-focused, neither a saint nor lovesick. What readers love The protagonist isn't a saint or lovesick. She's clear-eyed despite her double standards, puts missions and her own interests first, and takes decisive action. It's incredibly satisfying to read. Each world is short, tightly paced, and never padded. A quick-transmigration fan's dream. Reasons to 43.6kReads8.3Score2.6kShelves

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   Looking at the little world of the reformed playboy, it truly made me realize that real power struggles are never on the surface. The same world can be interpreted differently by people from different perspectives. The most impressive thing is that the protagonist's actions can elicit different reactions from different people, all achieving his own goals. His grasp of human nature is simply amazing. And everything serves his purpose; what does it matter if it's fake, as long as it's useful, it's real! This short story felt like a long novel to me—it was incredibly mind-bending. I was passively following along the whole time; everyone involved was a shrew. So far, besides "Bring in the Wine," it's the most amazing story I've ever read.

5. 605 凤 The Phoenix Returns: A Conspiracy 凤归谋 Tao Zhijiuying桃栀久耀Ancient Romance556k WordsCompleted [Historical fantasy with a powerful heroine, political intrigue, and satisfying revenge] [No transmigration + no rebirth + no System] Peach blossoms bloom in their splendor, their fiery beauty never fading. The phoenix returns to its home, then takes to the skies once more. Feng Xihe said: From childhood, I studied military texts and histories and trained in horsemanship, archery, and the art of war. Of the four arts, I devoted myself only to calligraphy, because Father said an emperor’s handwr 1.2kReads9.1Score128Shelves

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   Ancient Chinese political intrigue, female protagonist ruling the world

6. 606 偏 The Cold Palace's Abandoned Empress and Her Obsessive Tyrant 偏执暴君的冷宫弃后 Cocoluo Eighteen可可罗十八Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The main story is complete. [Classic historical setting + political intrigue and romance + no palace infighting + the second male lead wins] [The heroine is slow to recognize romantic feelings. Only three male leads are lovesick over her] Xie Tiange, a Cold Palace prisoner released in a general amnesty, seems insignificant, yet her origins are a mystery. No one knows she is the beloved of the ruthless emperor who imprisoned her for three years, not even Xie Tiange herself. She has no idea she is 86Reads8.4Score—Shelves

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   A pure historical romance with political intrigue elements; the main characters are incredibly intelligent. It's not a palace intrigue story. The pacing is slow, with many foreshadowing elements, so you'll need to read it at your own pace.

7. 607 海 Begonia Blossoms: The General's Wife Is Reborn and Goes on a Rampage 海棠笑：将军夫人重生她杀疯了 I Eat Grapes Without Spitting Out the Skins吃葡萄就是不吐皮Ancient Romance350k WordsCompleted A cold-faced, devoted general and a clever, gentle legitimate daughter I, Shen Zhiyu, died once. I burned in the flames, the pain searing to the bone. Only as I lay dying did I learn that the woman kneeling and crying over me was the enemy who had abducted me and drained my blood. My true identity was the Duke's Estate's legitimate daughter, switched at birth and kept from her family for fifteen years! When I opened my eyes again, Heaven had given me another chance at life. In this life, weari 754Reads—Score104Shelves

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   Every couple with equal strength

8. 608 一 Before I Knew It, His Majesty Was Helping Me Fight My Household Battles 一不小心，陛下他下场帮我宅斗了 A Touch Of Green On Junshan君山一点青Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted An accident causes Cui Lingyao and the reigning emperor, Pei Jie, to swap souls. On the fifteenth of every month, each must spend a day in the other's body. One side is the chaotic Earl's residence, with a reborn younger cousin, an aunt harboring dark intentions, an uncle shrouded in secrets, and a grandmother who loves to smooth things over. The other is the imperial court, where the empress dowager holds power, Prince Xin is ambitious, the emperor's personal attendant has already defected, an 10.8kReads8.9Score1.5kShelves

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   The political intrigue is superb; the male and female protagonists in the first two books are very intelligent, and the third book is a group portrait.

9. 609 聊 Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio: I Asked You to Repay Your Debt, Not Paint Skins and Ghosts 聊斋：让你还债，没让你画皮画鬼 On Jiufeng Mountain九峰山上Eastern Fantasy125k WordsOngoing [Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio + Bizarre Cultivation + No System + Subverting Expectations + Folk Supernatural Tales + Becoming a God Through Painting + Dark Tone + Lovecraftian Horror + Clever Protagonist + Decisive and Ruthless + Not Mindless Wish Fulfillment] Transmigrating into Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio, I find myself trapped in the deadly predicament of The Painted Skin from the start, and saddled with an unpayable debt to the dead? Don't panic. I have a White Bone Brush tha 817Reads—Score—Shelves

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   For those seeking a classic Chinese political intrigue novel, check this one out! The protagonist uses feng shui to outwit ghosts and monsters, featuring numerous plot twists and tight logic, a strong Chinese horror atmosphere, and is highly recommended by seasoned readers.

10. 610 尸 Born of a Corpse, Carried in a Ghost's Coffin 尸生子，鬼抬棺 Jie Yu界玉Mystery3.3M WordsCompleted In ancient, remote places, all kinds of strange and terrifying things are bound to happen. And these things happen around Hua Jiunan. In fact, Hua Jiunan is part of them. For instance, he was born from a corpse! 212.8kReads9.6Score25.1kShelves
11. 611 公 Princess Feisheng of the City That Never Sleeps 公主飞声不夜城 The Clumsy Bird Takes the Scenic Route笨鸟走花路Ancient Romance606k WordsCompleted After Princess Yufei’s life as a hostage ends, she goes to meet her father, only to discover that someone has taken her place! With her father under threat, she has no choice but to conceal her identity and investigate in secret as a musician. While keeping the impostor princess at bay, she also carries out her search for a missing person. The enemy kingdom’s conspiracy gradually comes to light, and her true identity is revealed to everyone. The neighboring kingdom’s prince, Yunchen, falls for h 50Reads—Score—Shelves

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    The female protagonist conceals her identity and, together with the male protagonist, uncovers a conspiracy by an enemy country; the story unfolds as a group of characters fight against the enemy together.

12. 612 云 Clouds and Moonlight: The Golden Branches' Plot to Bury the Traitors 云月简：金枝组团埋奸录 Lan Langzhu兰朗竹Ancient Romance353k WordsCompleted Also known as The Cloud and Moon Scroll: The Clear Jade Token: historical political intrigue | Female ensemble | Multiple couples | Powerful partners | The greater good of the nation There are many fine steeds, but few who can recognize them. Yet in this world, there is someone willing to break through the cages of convention and let you, a woman, rise to high office. Someone willing to entrust you with mountains of confidence and oceans of power. Would you then devote yourself to him without re 185Reads8.1Score—Shelves
13. 613 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

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    The ruthless and decisive General Yu vs. The charming and intelligent Lady Song. They walked until the world was deserted, until they were both destined to die together. He never looked back.

14. 614 皇 The Empress Dies Tragically and Is Reborn, Then Marries Her Mortal Enemy from Her Past Life 皇后惨死重生，嫁给前生的死对头 Love Freedom钟爱自由Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Rebirth + revenge + strong heroine + marriage first, love later + devoted romance] Anyone who kills my family, no matter how powerful, will be destroyed! Her life has just one purpose: revenge! If she had to name a second, it would be making money! She was the legitimate daughter of the second branch of the Feng family. Before her cousin, the Empress, died, she begged the Emperor to make Feng Yi the next Empress, so her only son could keep his position as Crown Prince. Feng Yi entered the palac 916Reads9.0Score111Shelves

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    A strong female protagonist, no system!

15. 615 诡EN The House of Dread 诡舍 The Sound of Wind and Rain at Night,夜来风雨声丶Mystery2.1M WordsCompleted [Infinite-flow + Mild Horror + Survival + One Female Lead] A driverless bus carried a group of cursed people to a strange black lodge… Inside the lodge stood a door stained red with blood. At regular intervals, the cursed were forcibly dragged through the blood-red door and into terrifying worlds, where they had to complete horrifying events… After Ning Qiushui survived one bizarre and terrifying story after another inside the lodge, narrowly escaping death each time, he discovered that none of 707.4kReads9.6Score103.9kShelves
16. 616 G GB: Is the Shadow Guard Too Submissive? The Lady Takes the Lead GB：暗卫太卑微？小姐亲自折腰 It's Xiao Shang是肖尚Ancient Romance1.0M WordsOngoing [Female Top, Male Bottom, No Switching or Reversal, Plot-Driven Angst, Growing Female Lead] [Scheming, Dominant Young Lady x Humble Puppy-Like Shadow Guard] [Not Just a Two-Person Story, Slightly Female-Centric] [Bittersweet Romance, Childbirth, The Author Has Decided Who Gives Birth] The state of Qiao is bound by rigid Confucian morals, with civil officials holding the reins of power. Beneath the surface, turmoil has long been brewing. Zhi He’s original wish was simple: for the Zhi family to li 2.1kReads8.1Score270Shelves

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    My personal reading experience: the characters are very grounded. The female lead isn't just blinded by love; she's adept at scheming in the court, gathering evidence against her opponents, and defusing rumors in the streets. The roles of her father and brothers are also well-developed; her father rationally points out the real obstacles between them, considering the family's honor. The male lead is decisive and ruthless, cold and hard on outsiders, but completely reserved in front of the female lead—this contrast between his outward and inward personas is portrayed very realistically.

17. 617 观 Guanyin Temple 观音刹 Lin Li Early Summer林黎初夏Ancient Romance272k WordsOngoing [The jade-faced Guanyin, young master of Medicine King Valley, and the warmhearted puppy-like heir to a marquis's title / both are each other's first and only love / cold-faced cutie and shameless flirt / love at first sight / mutual devotion] After a fire brought Medicine King Valley back into the world, its young master, Lu Wangshu, returned to the unfamiliar capital at her elders' request to meet potential marriage prospects. She had hoped to use the opportunity to calmly transcribe the compl 3Reads—Score—Shelves
18. 618 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
19. 619 替 I Took My Eldest Sister’s Place in the Palace. I Laughed, While She Cried Herself Blind 替长姐入宫后，我笑，她哭瞎了眼 Love Freedom钟爱自由Ancient Romance305k WordsCompleted [Historical palace intrigue + rebirth + revenge + punishing scoundrels + doting romance] In her previous life, Tang Xuan broke off her engagement and entered the palace in her elder sister's place, only to become entangled in one conspiracy after another. She was framed and sentenced to death by dismemberment. Reborn, Tang Xuan once again agrees to break off her engagement and enter the palace in her elder sister's place. This time, Tang Xuan vows to exact her revenge. She'll uncover the conspir 171Reads—Score—Shelves
20. 620 千 Through the Ages, I Am the Phoenix 千秋我为凰 Qian Ran Jun Xiao千苒君笑Ancient Romance2.5M WordsCompleted Shen Xian transmigrates into the body of a fool, gets driven out of her home, has her face disfigured, and is even carrying a baby! On the day her husband marries his new love, she shows up to offer her congratulations, then repeatedly face-slaps the new concubine and leaves the guests stunned. But the new concubine keeps trying to out-act her. “You weakling, you think you’re good enough to steal the spotlight?” 2.9kReads9.0Score467Shelves
21. 621 疯 She's Gone Mad! The Day She Transmigrated, the Sickly Young Lord Vowed to Give Himself to Her! 疯了!穿越当天，病娇世子爷他要以身相许! Han Mianmian韩绵绵Ancient Romance868k WordsCompleted Original title: After the Heir’s Consort Turns Dark, All the Gods Fall at Her Feet [Transmigration + two scheming minds locked in a battle of wits + obsession + political intrigue + bickering couple] Yun Jincheng transmigrates and, the moment she opens her eyes, strips the sickly heir of his clothes and stumbles upon a secret he has kept hidden for years. Rumor has it that the heir of the Prince of Zhennan, who has been frail for years and gasps for breath after just a few steps, isn’t sick at a 2kReads9.3Score529Shelves
22. 622 南 Nan Jingchun 南景春 A Melon in the Bowl碗里一只瓜Ancient Romance347k WordsOngoing A princess who commands armies and wields great power X a poor-born statesman who claws his way to the top Lu Nanjing is the Great Xi’s Goddess of War, a princess who rides through the imperial city with a mighty army at her back and the world beneath her feet. Du Ruolan is a statesman from a humble family, ruthless and cunning, who fights his way into the heart of power with sheer courage and ingenuity. One spring day on the street, she casually tossed him a fortune and rescued him from the mud 40Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Unfortunately, I lack the education to write a high-quality book review, but my feeling is that it's good and worth reading.

23. 623 踹 After Kicking Over the Dragon Throne, the Entire Court Begged Her to Take the Crown 踹翻龙椅后，满朝文武跪求她登基 Fei Xi妃玺Ancient Romance2.5M WordsCompleted (The heroine focuses on her career, with no romantic pairing. She becomes somewhat cold-hearted and ruthless later on.) Born into the world as a princess, Yu Hui thinks that at last, an incredible fortune has fallen into her lap. She has a palace to live in, money to spend, and status to protect her, so she can enjoy a peaceful, happy life. But peace is out of the question. Calamities keep dropping out of the sky, and they’re heavy ones. Happiness? Not really. Someone is always ending up dead, s 8.6kReads8.8Score728Shelves
24. 624 折 The Broken Flute 折笛 Xu Yu许玉Ancient Romance221k WordsOngoing [Love That Grows Over Time + Both Pure + Jade-Faced General vs. Blind Assassin] The previous dynasty fell, the realm fractured, and warlords vied for supremacy. Qi Yunqiu, the Great General of Yao and Prince Pingshan, had known the emperor since they were nobodies. He was the emperor's sworn brother, a valiant warrior and brilliant strategist who expanded Yao's borders until it quietly stood above the other kingdoms. Yu Yun was an assassin of the Zhuji Pavilion. A life spent with blood on her ha 65Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is very well written; I can't get enough of it and I'm looking forward to the next installment. Thank you!

25. 625 春 The Allure of Spring 春华引 Sticky Ash粘粘灰Ancient Romance2.3M WordsCompleted As a princess, Shen Minghua spent her previous life taking “doing whatever she wanted” to the extreme. If anyone crossed her, she would use her power to crush them. Yet she was favored by the emperor, so even those who resented her had to flatter and appease her. With so many sycophants around her, she gradually lost sight of who she truly was. In her previous life, she trusted the wrong person, and one cup of poisoned wine cost someone their life. When she opens her eyes again, she is back in J 460Reads5.4Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This story features a female protagonist who is reborn and possesses exceptional strategic skills.

26. 626 九 The Ninth Prince's Consort Is Bold and Dashing 九王妃她又飒又狂 Xu Chaobai许超白Ancient Romance395k WordsCompleted In the 21st century, a shadow assassin was betrayed by her partner and stabbed in the chest. She transmigrated into Gu An, the foolish legitimate daughter of a marquis’s household. Her vicious cousin and ruthless aunt plotted against her, forcing her to take her cousin’s place and marry the Ninth Prince, who could die at any moment. A fool and an invalid were a perfect match. The people of Junjing munched on seeds and watched the show. When the legitimate daughter of the Gu family was born, the 2.8kReads9.1Score347Shelves

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    A story of a cunning and ruthless prince, a couple who pretend to be weak to outwit their opponents and deliver a satisfying comeback: from being ridiculed to achieving legendary status, the entire story is high-energy and without angst. It's not just about domestic intrigue; there's also battlefield action and heartwarming moments of mutual protection and affection. The seemingly ruthless prince only shows weakness to his wife. When the enemy army is at the city gates, the Ninth Prince leisurely waves his folding fan: "My lady, they've disturbed my rest." Gu An flicks his spear, a slight smile playing on his lips.

27. 627 侯 The Marquis's Son Fails at Lying Flat 侯府郎君躺平失败记 Pi Xiaobai皮小白Historical791k WordsOngoing Just after Feng Yanchu transmigrates, he hears a series of smacks before feeling a stinging pain on his butt. How embarrassing! His pants have been pulled down and he’s being spanked! Then he hears several children wailing. Three other kids are getting beaten nearby, too. Looks like they got into trouble. At least he isn’t the only one being punished, which makes it a little less embarrassing. The male lead transmigrates into the body of an illegitimate son in a marquis’s household. He expects t 70.7kReads8.5Score5.5kShelves

    Reader note

    Do these two books count?

28. 628 悲 The Tragic Grand Princess Turns the Tables in an Instant 悲催和亲长公主的脸说翻就翻 Tun Bala豚巴拉Ancient Romance259k WordsCompleted Transmigration into a drama, strong heroine, becoming emperor, feel-good story, a big sister with the swagger of a bandit, a gentle and frail eldest princess, multiple male leads, one woman and many men. The career plot takes center stage. Han Jingshan is a gang leader who makes a living through competitive fighting and collecting protection money. After a car accident, she transmigrates into a tragedy about a princess sent abroad for a political marriage. The good news: because Han Jingshan has 21Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead was originally a powerful leader, but her soul transmigrated into the body of a princess in a political marriage drama. Relying on her martial arts skills and unorthodox methods, she rose from nothing to become empress, defeating a male guest and gaining several male leads, all of whom were under her command. The storyline primarily focuses on her career.

29. 629 江 The Empire as My Canvas 江山为卷 Morning Farewell to Old Friends朝辞故旧Eastern Fantasy1.2M WordsCompleted [A completely fictional xianxia history: political intrigue + xianxia + no System.] “Your Majesty, the Ninth Prince has broken through all four passes. He has led his army across the Yinma River and is closing in on Tianmen Pass.” The ministers were speechless. How could that dissolute heir, who spent every day drinking and womanizing and even brought dancers on military campaigns, have broken through all four passes? From the looks of it, he was going to attack the strongest pass in Western Shu 12.3kReads9.1Score969Shelves

    Reader note

    [Sparrow's Masterpiece] The protagonist is arrogant and unruly in his youth, but matures and becomes steady after he grows up. There is no one-sided situation; it all comes down to who has the better strategy.

30. 630 穿 Reborn as the Cannon-Fodder Original Wife of a Mad Power-Hungry Minister 穿成疯批权臣的炮灰原配 Bright Lantern灯旺旺Ancient Romance707k WordsCompleted [Farming + Transmigrate into a Book + Sweet Romance] Witty, scheming girl vs. lovesick, obsessive powerbroker Xin Yueying transmigrates into a book, landing in an old-fashioned, preachy novel as the wicked wife of the deranged, obsessive second male lead. Shen Qingqi is the novel’s deranged, villainous male character. Born into a family of famed generals, he was imprisoned alongside the Shen family after his father offended powerful nobles. He suffered terribly in prison and was left with crippl 30.1kReads9.3Score10.6kShelves

    Reader note

    This book!! It made me want to keep reading from the very first page! All the villains are incredibly intelligent!

31. 631 再 She Returns with Prayer Beads on Her Wrist 再归来，表小姐手戴佛珠 All of You, Get Out of My Sight都给朕退下Ancient Romance332k WordsCompleted Four years ago, she was framed and sent away to a nunnery. Four years later, she returns a far cry from the frail, easily bullied girl she once was. She plans her every move and has none of her former girlish romantic notions left... 1. The male and female leads are both each other's first and only. 2. I aim to update with 4,000 words a day. If you don't like reading an ongoing story, feel free to save it for later. Please don't drop it, really, don't drop it! Otherwise, I won't be able to 1.5kReads6.9Score204Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a new book! The female protagonist is initially framed and sent to a nunnery. She returns four years later, completely different from her former weak and easily bullied self. She is now cunning and calculating, devoid of any of the girlish emotions she once possessed…

32. 632 大 Abandoned at Her Wedding? Blind, She Helps Her Guard Husband Go on a Killing Spree 大婚被弃？眼盲后靠侍卫夫君杀疯 Dandelion from 196363年的蒲公英Ancient Romance594k WordsCompleted Jiang Wan is the least noticed chief minister's wife in the Great Zhou dynasty. The day after their wedding, her husband, Xie Lanzhi, leaves for the frontier. Three years later, a great fire blinds her and leaves her trapped in a remote monastery. In despair, she grabs the hem of a man's robe and pleads in a trembling voice, “Guard, please save me...” Watching his nominal wife, Xie Lanzhi inexplicably lowers his voice and replies, “All right.” From then on, a silent guard named “Aqi” stays by Ji 241Reads6.3Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    It's a good read. I rarely read this type of story. The characters are well-developed. Keep it up!

33. 633 娘 The Consort Is All Charm and Cunning, Scheming Her Way to the Top 娘娘又茶又媚，一路宫斗上位 Tea Little Ink茶小墨Ancient Romance835k WordsCompleted Signed for print publication In the third year of the Yifeng era, a concubine-born daughter of the Ningyang Marquis’s household enters the palace. The palace is a vast, treacherous place, where the one thing you must never do is give your heart away. Ning Shuyan is clear-eyed: she wants wealth and prestige, along with the emperor’s favor. For three years, she carefully plots each step, wins the emperor’s attention, and rises from Talented Lady to Noble Consort. Rumor has it that the emperor only 56.9kReads9.5Score7.1kShelves

    Reader note

    💥 If a modern-day scheming woman were to transmigrate to ancient times, manipulating the emperor would be a piece of cake, wouldn't it?

34. 634 王 The Princess Consort Pretends to Be Sickly and Weak, Then Unleashes Her Wildest Scheme! 王妃扮最弱的病，掀最狂的局！ BiBiAncient Romance2.2M WordsOngoing A double-award-winning romance between the “Queen of Intelligence” and the “Master of the Night.” “Max-level expert” + “two powerful leads exposing each other's secret identities” + “marriage first, love later” + the world as their game board Shen Mo Yue, the international top spy known as “Ghost,” transmigrates and becomes the laughingstock of the capital after trying to kill herself over the crown prince. Her family sends her overnight to an estate on the frontier to “recuperate.” “Pathetic 8kReads8.8Score1kShelves
35. 635 嫁 Marrying the Imperial Tutor 嫁帝师 Changshanli长山里Ancient Romance560k WordsCompleted [When a Scheming Black-Bellied Type Meets a Sweet-on-the-Outside, Dark-on-the-Inside Type + Love and Hate + Soul Swap + Revenge, Traditional Historical Romance in an Imaginary Setting] Jiang Wanzhi first met Song Qingshi when she was fourteen. At sixteen, she became Mrs. Song. Everyone said she was lucky: a merchant’s daughter had married a top-scoring scholar. That is, until she died under mysterious circumstances on the very night Song Qingshi asked her for a divorce. When she awoke again, she 27.8kReads9.3Score4.3kShelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist is reborn after exchanging souls; the theme is novel, both the male and female protagonists are intelligent throughout the process, and the plot unfolds step by step, unraveling the mystery gradually.

36. 636 夫 My Husband Gives Me Two Hundred Thousand Taels a Month 夫君每月给我二十万两 Having Met the Young Master既见公子Ancient Romance768k WordsCompleted [Sweet Romance + Transmigrate Into a Book + Goofy Comedy + Redemption + Marriage Before Love] Gan Qiongying transmigrated into the body of a princess! Before she could even celebrate, she realized this world was the setting of a book she had read. And she was the wicked supporting character who committed countless evils and met a tragic end... The plot had reached the point where a princess of her stature was being forced to marry a merchant. Merchants ranked below scholars, farmers, and arti 29.6kReads9.4Score3.8kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommended. The female lead is a time traveler who dreams of her past life in the early episodes, leading her to outwit the Regent and the Empress Dowager. The male lead is a businessman who later displays his political acumen to protect the female lead and her brother.

37. 637 穿 Transmigrate as a Good-for-Nothing: From Playboy to Prince of the North 穿越废柴从纨绔到镇北亲王 The Moon Came Out Round on a Cloudy Day阴天月亮它圆了Historical1.2M WordsCompleted A modern veteran transmigrates into the past and becomes Lin Chen, the most useless second son in the Minister of Revenue’s household. A drunkard, a gambler, a coward with no ability, he’s a laughingstock everyone tramples on. But the moment he opens his eyes, his brilliance blazes forth, and no one in the world can stop him! He takes on his elder brother, crushes spoiled brats, and turns the capital’s elite upside down, rising from a good-for-nothing to the most formidable official’s son! The b 9.9kReads8.2Score888Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is really well-written; those who are interested can check it out.

38. 638 皇 Your Majesty the Empress, I Can Take You Down Anytime 皇后娘娘，本宫随时可以拿下你 Xiao Fu, Who Loves Shiitake Chicken Stir-Fry爱吃香茹炒鸡丁的小富Ancient Romance63k WordsOngoing [Quick transmigration + political intrigue + strong heroine + palace and household intrigue + historical romance + imaginative history + sweet romance] The emperor was overjoyed and rewarded Lin Yue with many treasures on the spot. The empress was so furious that her face turned ashen, yet she could do nothing about it. Seeing the empress's expression, the palace maid Lin Yue thought to herself, “Your Majesty the Empress, I can take you down whenever I want.” —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    ① "Your Majesty, I Can Take You Anytime" brilliantly presents the intrigue and treacherous nature of the imperial court. The female protagonist, with extraordinary talent and unwavering courage, navigates the vortex of the struggle for the Empress's throne. She keenly sees through perilous conspiracies and schemes; she cleverly breaks through seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Meanwhile, her emotional entanglement with the male protagonist blossoms, evolving from initial rivalry to deep affection. The author's delicate writing vividly portrays the characters and intricate plot, immersing the reader in the opulent yet dangerous world of the imperial court, allowing them to fully experience the dual charm of ancient romance and power struggles. A must-read!

39. 639 重 Reborn, I Became the Top Official in a Local Government 重生后，我成了地方一把手 Tangtang Sixth Young Master糖糖六公子Urban1.5M WordsCompleted In ancient times, when officials embarked on their careers and took up posts in distant places, they sometimes brought along a handwritten booklet. It recorded the local customs and notable gentry. Keeping its contents in mind was essential to ensuring a smooth rise through the ranks. It was a kind of "career handbook." 16.9kReads8.8Score908Shelves
40. 640 镇 The Prince of Beizhen: Guarding My Eight Houses of Beiliang 镇北王：守我八房北凉 Slash Immortal斜杠仙人Historical1.3M WordsOngoing Nine lifetimes of reincarnation, all for one long-held wish! With sand and smoke filling the air, how can good and evil be told apart amid the chaos? Watch how Xiao Bufan leads the Xiao family out of the capital of Great Qian, takes charge of Beiliang, and searches for the bond that has spanned nine lifetimes! 6.8kReads8.0Score453Shelves

    Reader note

    Abandoning the mindless competition among women, the women each have their own ambitions, some managing domestic affairs and others offering advice to the court, and they get along harmoniously and transparently with each other.

41. 641 牛 Niu Xiaofu’s Immortal Cultivation Chronicles 牛小福修仙记 Seven Stars in Hand手握七星Urban652k WordsCompleted A magical adventure about two little ones who start a shop to make a living, then gradually learn magical arts. With a little tiger and eight magpies, they build a thriving business. In the chaotic world, he gradually rediscovers his immortal soul and spiritual awareness, and with them, his insight and power return. Eventually, through a twist of fate, Xiao Xing returns to the town and understands the truth. Looking back on everything, he chooses to quietly protect his original aspirations and p 24Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    His official position could not conceal his romantic spirit, and his stern face concealed a gentle heart.

42. 642 被 After Being Kidnapped, I Kidnap the Western Regions' Young Lord and Bring Him Back to the Central Plains 被拐后，我反拐西域少主回中原 Thousand Threads of Intrigue千丝戏Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Young lord of the Western Regions × Princess of Sheng'an] Ye Zhaoyu was born into the imperial family. She figured she'd surely been dealt the pampered darling's script in life, so she wisely decided to coast. But she never expected to take a wrong turn and be kidnapped to the Western Regions. By a stroke of bad luck, she was sent to the bed of a deranged young lord known as a demon's lair and a living Shura. She immediately switched into survival-and-escape mode, determined to flee back to the 8.8kReads9.5Score1.4kShelves
43. 643 家 My Father Is Emperor Wu of Han! 家父汉武帝！ The Wise Man's Mutt智者的土狗儿Historical1.9M WordsCompleted [Winner of the National Library writing contest] [Top-tier historical storytelling + no System + rebellion + political intrigue + a love-hate relationship between father and son] Reborn in the womb as Liu Ju, the eldest legitimate son of Emperor Wu of Han. His father is Liu Che, the most powerful carbon-based life form on Earth in the second century BCE! And his maternal family’s lineup is even more outrageous! His mother is Wei Zifu, his uncle is Wei Qing, his cousin is Huo Qubing, and his youn 86.4kReads9.2Score8.1kShelves
44. 644 瞻 [Behold the Green Ravine] 【瞻彼淇奥】 May Wealth and Joy Come Your Way来财来乐儿Ancient Romance173k WordsCompleted “You have your path, and I have mine.” That year, he was the man she was willing to give up her surname to marry. At first, everything went too smoothly, so much so that it sometimes felt like a dream. It wasn't until a bucket of cold water was thrown over her that it began to feel real. After that, the road ahead was full of hardships… 29Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Ancient Chinese romance novels featuring power struggles and tragic endings, filled with both overt and covert schemes. [Crying emoji]

45. 645 权 At the Pinnacle of Power: Super Civil Servant 权力巅峰：超级公务员 Tangtang Sixth Young Master糖糖六公子Urban1.2M WordsCompleted There are ten ranks in an official career, and every step takes you to a higher level! In my previous life, I spent forty years as a low-ranking civil servant, made a scapegoat and a sacrificial pawn, and only reached the rank of senior staff officer by the time I retired. Now that I’ve been given another life, I must soar straight to the highest heights! Now that I’ve been given another life, I must keep pace with the economic tide! Now that I’ve been given another life, I must do something tan 48.8kReads9.2Score4.2kShelves
46. 646 值 No Return Before the Year’s End 值岁无还期 May Wealth and Joy Come Your Way来财来乐儿Ancient Romance332k WordsCompleted Who understands the struggles of two lonely souls hidden beneath the splendor of the capital? Their hometowns are obsessions, their memories are shackles. For two people steeped in hardship, even living a decent life has become an impossible dream... They warm each other in boundless loneliness, becoming one another's only support. The road ahead is bitterly cold, but thankfully, though life is hard to endure, they have each other to walk beside them, somehow making it through one difficult stre 25Reads—Score—Shelves
47. 647 农 The Little Country Doctor 农家小医娘 Twisting an Orchid Finger兰花指捻Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted The heroine usually enjoys reading novels, but, oddly enough, the heroine of this novel was also named Su Siqing. If she hadn't known that no one she knew wrote fiction, she'd have started wondering whether she'd offended someone who had written an entire novel just to insult her. Then she transmigrated into the book... She learned that the original owner was an unloved daughter of the Su family and had constantly abused Lin Jingnian's children. After transmigrating, she felt sorry for them and 13.3kReads9.4Score518Shelves
48. 648 娇 The Delicate Princess Is Adored by All, but the Prince Favors Her Alone 娇弱郡主万人宠，皇子殿下独偏爱 Hui Jiu蕙汣Ancient Romance349k WordsCompleted [A pure historical romance, with no rebirth, transmigration, or System] “Big brother!” Little Li Qingling followed behind Fu Junyan. The boy ahead of her walked too fast, so Li Qingling had to trot to keep up. After that, Fu Junyan hardly ever saw the little girl. He only heard about her now and then from her elder brother. Apparently, she was in poor health and spent most of her time recuperating at home. Three years later, Fu Junyan returned from the border. The Noble Consort asked him, “ 341Reads6.7Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book does not feature reincarnation or time travel. Both the female and male protagonists possess their own power and influence.

49. 649 凤 The Phoenix Reigns Over the World 凤临天下 A Lifetime of Glamour一世风流Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted "She is an invincible, stone-cold mercenary leader, but after transmigrating, she becomes a thirteen-year-old princess consort. He is the Empire's breathtakingly handsome prince, ruthless and cold, a figure whose name inspires awe throughout the land. Their wedding is followed by a pact on Nether Island: half a month together. But it also drags them into a shocking conspiracy. What kind of perilous, mind-bending trap awaits them?" 11.4kReads9.4Score1.2kShelves

    Reader note

    "The Phoenix Descends Upon the World" tells the legendary story of a female protagonist who rises from adversity, wielding unparalleled wisdom to conquer the world, surrounded by handsome men and bound by love. It's a story you won't want to miss.

50. 650 癫EN What the Heck! Everyone Around Me Is Completely Nuts! 癫！孤身边全是神经病！ Wen Yuan Party文元党Ancient Romance764k WordsCompleted Born a crown prince, Qi Yuanzuo was convinced that he was the only normal person in the imperial family. Little did he know what the Crown Prince looked like to outsiders: At seven, he shot a tiger and won nine hundred kilometers of territory in the Qilian Mountains. At thirteen, he cut through the great clans of Jiangnan and personally orchestrated the Case of the Ninety-Seven Mourning Robes, stepping over piles of corpses to claim the throne. At fifteen, he gambled on the Qilian Mountains once 54.4kReads9.5Score7kShelves

    Reader note

    It has to be this one! I came here specifically looking for its meal replacement.

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