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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

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GPT-6 Luna

The protagonist should have their own faction. No System!!!

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101 From the Start, They Sacrificed Me to Heaven. In the End, I Took Power 开局被祭天，结局我掌权 Big Shuttle大梭子Ancient Romance2.2M WordsCompleted (The first fifteen chapters mostly recount memories from her past life.) Wei Yingshan was born a princess of the imperial family, but an accident left her stranded in the wilderness. She was brought back to the palace when she was thirteen. When she was seventeen, rebel troops laid siege to the city and demanded that a princess of the Wei clan surrender with her hands bound and a jade disc in her mouth. Her birth mother couldn't bear to subject the elder sister and younger brother she'd raised f 76kReads9.3Score11.1kShelves
Reader note
Are there any similar stories to "Started as a sacrifice, ended with me in power"? I really love the intelligent, brave, and righteous female lead, Ying Shan. The other characters aren't just black and white; they're all very well-developed (especially the women! And the ensemble scenes...). The more I read, the better it got, but I've already caught up with it [crying]. I want to read something similar, please recommend some!
102 A Hotpot Through the Ages 火锅春秋 Peas Found a Circle豌豆遇了圆Historical477k WordsOngoing The state is founded on its people, and the people put food first. Transmigrating into the turbulent Spring and Autumn period, a master chef stirs up the world. Follow the protagonist across the river of time as, armed with culinary skills and the Zuo Zhuan, he rewrites the course of Chinese civilization and creates an epic “Spring and Autumn of Fine Food”! 38Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
A new book is now available. It's a historical food novel. Although it's a time-travel story, it avoids fantastical elements like systems and cheat codes, focusing instead on historical facts and events. All titles, names of people and places, and social backgrounds are meticulously researched, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the Spring and Autumn Period. Furthermore, the book offers extremely detailed introductions to some traditional Chinese dishes, serving as a practical cookbook. However, the author is not responsible for any kitchen novice mistakes. Readers interested in history and food are welcome to check it out.
103 Spring's Joy, Year After Year 岁岁春欢 I Really Love Little Crabs超爱小螃蟹Ancient Romance669k WordsCompleted [The print edition of Years of Spring Joy is now available on all platforms] [Heroine and scumbag reborn + male lead transmigrates + mutual salvation + play the pig to eat the tiger] At seventeen, Shen Jiasui married Lu Yunzheng. The Shen and Lu families were both military dynasties, making them a formidable match. Two years into their marriage, Lu Yunzheng defeated the enemy kingdom and won renown across the land. But the Shen family was condemned for treason and executed to the last member. On 266.6kReads9.6Score31.2kShelves
104 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
Don't be fooled by the unappealing summaries of these two books; the writing is truly excellent, especially the first one, which I highly recommend.
105 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
If you're looking for something to read, check out this underrated political intrigue novel. It's set in a fictional dynasty, with a rich and compelling writing style and a tightly woven plot where every decision will change the course of the story.
106 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
Reader note
The genres aren't entirely the same. The first book is a female protagonist's growth story; the second is a palace intrigue novel where the female lead is intelligent, and every character is well-developed and relatable; the third features a female lead who is a general, brave and resourceful, with distinctive supporting characters, each a unique individual; the fourth is another palace intrigue novel. In summary: Excellent, excellent!
107 Help! The Prime Minister's Legitimate Daughter Smiles as She Wipes Out an Entire Household 救命，相府嫡女眉眼含笑灭人满门 Holding a Brush to Tie Up My Hair执笔绾青丝Ancient Romance293k WordsCompleted (Complete. Clear-headed, unhinged black-moonlight heroine + lovesick, possessive villainous male lead + household and political intrigue + mutual salvation + happy ending) You deliberately seduced me, and I willingly walked into your trap. On the first day after being reborn, Ji Yang opened her eyes and came face-to-face with the man who had opposed her at every turn in her previous life. So she lured him into prison and forced him to do whatever she asked. In this life, she wouldn't just make h 2.1kReads9.2Score282Shelves
108 My Fierce Dog, My Horse: I Do Whatever I Want 我的恶犬我的马，我想咋耍就咋耍 Jiu Chuang九创Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Strong female lead, powerful heroine, reborn female general, woman disguised as a man, duty to family and country, serious alternate-history drama, ensemble cast in chaotic times. If you mind a weak romance, don't read.] She died in the very year she was ennobled and made a general, crowned with glory. It turned out that even someone with no lingering resentment could be reborn after reaching the top. In her previous life, because of something her mother said, she took on the burden of her fami 11.5kReads9.5Score1.8kShelves
109 I, the Ultimate Schemer: The Empress Calls Me a Living Yama 我，最强毒士，女帝直呼活阎王 Xing Xing Zi星星子Historical4.3M WordsOngoing [Search Tomato to watch the short drama: The Third Greatest Stratagem of All Time] Gao Yang transmigrated to the Great Qian Dynasty just as the Empress ascended the throne and began recruiting talent from across the land. So he volunteered himself as a poison strategist! The Empress: “Suppose you personally wiped out your enemy's entire family. As you looked at the bodies scattered everywhere, you suddenly realized there was still a child in the house. What would you do?” Gao Yang: “I'd say, ‘Re 382.6kReads9.2Score32.3kShelves
Reader note
The male protagonist is highly intelligent. As a transmigrator, his identity in his previous life was not simple. In the parallel world, he is a master strategist who can outwit the Xiongnu. It's so satisfying.
110 Taking a Wife Makes You Stronger 娶妻当变强 The Fiery East冒火的东方Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted This book is also known as The Healer's Hand Covers the Heavens and The Phoenix's Shadow Shines on the Snow. A brilliant story of a remarkable heroine, full of political scheming and mind games that will make you think! The best is yet to come! A great book that nearly lost readers because of its title! Follow a woman as she revives her nation and becomes its empress. She opens her eyes amid a heap of bones, only to discover that she is the deposed empress. Her husband has just established a new 56Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
A historical romance novel with political intrigue! A female protagonist with high intelligence orchestrates events to control the world.
111 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 genres aren't entirely the same. The first book is a female protagonist's growth story; the second is a palace intrigue novel where the female protagonist is intelligent, and every character is well-developed and relatable; the third features a female protagonist who is a general, brave and resourceful, with distinctive supporting characters, each a unique individual; the fourth is another palace intrigue novel. In summary: Excellent, excellent!
112 Great Ming: The Sickly Strategist the Crown Prince Begged to Come Out of Hiding 大明：病弱谋士，太子求我出山 Rascal Rabbit 2025流氓兔2025Historical853k WordsOngoing He transmigrates to the Ming Dynasty and becomes a frail hermit suffering from a terminal illness. Fortunately, the System arrives and saves his life. From then on, he keeps a low profile among ordinary people, living a simple life, working from sunrise to sunset. Unexpectedly, a special visitor arrives one day, and the gears of fate begin to turn... 70.7kReads7.7Score8.2kShelves
Reader note
This author's writing is truly superb, and it's a very comfortable read. I finished it in one go, it's just that there aren't many readers.
113 The Broken Palace Walls 破宫墙 Xiaoman's Bowl小满的碗Ancient Romance515k WordsCompleted [Alternate setting + both leads have no past romantic relationships] The capital had its “Five Tyrants,” with Princess Anle, Li Qingyao, at the top. Rumor had it that the princess was spoiled and arrogant, always carrying a long whip at her side. She was also doted on by the emperor and favored by the Noble Consort, making her the most cherished person in the Great Yan Dynasty. Yet this high-and-mighty princess died a tragic death in a conspiracy. What was most despairing was that the mastermind 1.6kReads8.9Score218Shelves
Reader note
These two are my absolute favorites, they're so good, you'll regret it if you don't read them!!
114 My Whole Family Are Cannon Fodder, but After They Read My Mind, They Rebel 满门炮灰读我心后，全家造反了 I Really Love Little Crabs超爱小螃蟹Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Physical edition of "Claiming the Pearl 2" goes on presale October 17 at 7:30 p.m.] [Mind reading + System + adored by the whole family + transmigrate into a book + play the pig to eat the tiger] Qiao Jiaojiao had accumulated so much virtue in her past life that the Old King of Hell granted her a rebirth with all her memories intact, plus a golden finger: a Virtue Points Shop. Qiao Jiaojiao was thrilled to start her new life, only to discover she hadn't been reborn at all. She'd transmigrated i 123.7kReads9.7Score14kShelves
Reader note
Strategic planning and tactics, ancient-style political intrigue
115 My Archenemy Asked the Emperor to Grant Us a Marriage, Then Spoiled Me Endlessly 死对头请旨赐婚，婚后竟娇宠无度 Me and You吾与卿Ancient Romance406k WordsCompleted She was a young lady raised beyond the frontier. A series of misunderstandings made her offend the Sixth Prince, the most doted-on of them all. No matter how gentle and refined she tried to become, she could never escape his sarcastic jibes. Later, the two were granted a marriage. Each wanted to call off the engagement for the other’s sake, never realizing that this was exactly the marriage they both wanted. She blinked playfully. “So, are you ready, Young Master Chu?” “Ready for what?” “Ready 214Reads7.4Score—Shelves
116 The Phoenix Strategy 凤策 Fifteenth of the Tenth Month拾月十五Historical597k WordsCompleted The Kunlun divine veins hold the Six Kingdoms in check, while the rules of the Divine Palace conceal deadly traps. A researcher of ancient civilizations transmigrates as Zhao Yan, a dissolute prince. With the phoenix as his wings and strategy as his blade, he rises against all odds to the throne and rules the world. 96Reads8.9Score—Shelves
Reader note
I'd like to recommend it...
117 After Being Banished to the Cold Palace, I Cling to the Imperial Preceptor 被打入冷宫后我赖上了国师 Gentle Scholar温柔文人Ancient Romance490k WordsOngoing [Transmigrate into a book + Subverting tropes + Light political intrigue + Devoted to each other + Not a wish-fulfillment story] Jiang Dai was just a busy modern office worker. She clicked on a political intrigue novel to investigate a case, but before she could finish reading it, she opened her eyes one day and found herself as an abandoned consort in the Cold Palace who wouldn't survive three chapters... No, not even one. Where was the essential System for someone who'd transmigrated into a bo 130.4kReads9.5Score20.2kShelves
Reader note
The male and female leads, along with all the supporting characters, are intelligent. The plot twists come one after another; even the villains can predict the protagonists' next move. Moreover, all the characters are young, essentially in their early twenties, engaging in a very profound battle.
118 One Sword to Slay the Fairer Sex 一剑斩红粉 Fifteenth of the Tenth Month拾月十五Urban552k WordsCompleted [Urban Martial Arts]+ [Traditional Cultivation]+ [Multiple Heroines] Lin Che, young master of an ancient martial arts family in the city, was framed and killed in his previous life while enjoying himself beneath the peonies. His lover, a minor internet celebrity close to him, had joined forces with his family's sworn enemy to set him up. His path to being reborn is also a path to rising to power… 369Reads8.5Score—Shelves
119 The Poison Queen Gives Up, but the Mad Dog Emperor Insists on Spoiling Her 毒后摆烂，疯狗暴君偏要宠 Ke Xin柯新Ancient Romance371k WordsCompleted [Court Intrigue] [Mutual Exploitation] [Psycho Push and Pull] [Fall from Grace] [Psycho] [Powerful Figures] [Tyrant] [Imperial Court] [High-Level Hunt] [Schemes] [Power Couple] [Wits and Will] Meng Zhiyuan was a notorious poison empress. After Emperor Xiao Qi personally destroyed her family, she was banished to the cold palace, left to await her death. Xiao Qi brought his new favorite before her and flaunted his favor, hoping to see jealousy and pain in her eyes. But Meng Zhiyuan didn't even loo 180Reads—Score112Shelves
Reader note
No more feeling lost in a reading slump! This book is definitely worth following. The plot is engaging, the characters are compelling, and there's no disappointing ending. You won't regret reading it; you'll want more after you finish! A highly recommended gem! The plot is tight and fast-paced, with plenty of exciting moments that don't feel frustrating. The writing is smooth and immersive. Once you start reading, you'll be hooked and won't want to put it down! I've discovered a treasure of a novel, with likable characters, an explosive plot, and no dull moments. If you like this genre, don't miss it! [Admiration][Admiration]
120 The Black Lotus of Great Ming 大明黑莲花 Xian Yuke羡鱼珂Ancient Romance594k WordsCompleted [Female con artist × hypocrite] The year the Jiajing Emperor ascended the throne of the Ming Dynasty, Magellan's fleet completed its circumnavigation of the globe. It was only decades later, along the eastern coast of Zhejiang, where the sea ban was in force, that a country woman happened to hear the Western theory that “the world is round.” Suddenly, she realized: If all four seas are round, then wherever you stand, you can be the center of the world. But when she looked around, women had no pa 5.9kReads9.3Score1.1kShelves
Reader note
Whether it looks good or not, come find me.
121 A Beauty’s Scheme for the Realm 红颜谋天下 Fifteenth of the Tenth Month拾月十五Eastern Fantasy148k WordsCompleted [Mystery]+ [Multiple Heroines]+ [No Transmigration]+ [No Golden Finger]+ [Alternate Fantasy World]+ [If It's Not Your Thing, Please Don't Complain] An imperial edict of marriage sends the icy, beautiful female general Murong Xue storming into the residence with a sword. Turmoil erupts in the Song household's rear court, while strange butterfly shadows from the Xuanming Cult appear, concealing a shocking conspiracy that could overturn the world. As one beauty after another gets drawn into the gam 63Reads—Score—Shelves
122 The Lucky Carp Maid Is No Easy Mark, and the Mad Crown Prince Begs for a Hug with Red-Rimmed Eyes! 锦鲤丫鬟难惹，疯太子红眼求抱！ Wild Donkey Tribe野驴部落Ancient Romance325k WordsCompleted [Palace and Household Intrigue + Sweet Romance + Mutual Healing + Historical Romance + Face-Slapping Wish Fulfillment + Protective Hero + Lucky Charm + Both Pure + One-on-One Romance + Intense Push and Pull + Strong Female Lead] Rumor has it that Crown Prince Xiao Hanjin of the Great Yuan Dynasty is a bloodthirsty madman who recognizes no family. Anyone who comes within three feet of him is as good as dead. Until one day, the palace attendants nervously open the study door and catch the notoriou 50Reads—Score107Shelves
123 A Substitute? No Matter, Miss Yin Only Wants to Rise to the Top 替身？无妨，殷姑娘只想荣登高位 Green Mountains in the Distance远看青山Ancient Romance173k WordsOngoing [Charming Noble Daughter (Actually a Ruthless Pavilion Master) X Gentle Prince (Actually a Scheming Alliance Leader)] [The heroine approaches him with a plan; the hero falls for her with his eyes wide open] One-on-one romance, both pure in body and heart, equally matched, both with secret identities. [An Imaginary World] After the new ruler ascended the throne, the Prime Minister's household was sidelined and kept confined within its residence. One day, while discussing the Ministry of Work 109Reads—Score122Shelves
Reader note
The male and female leads are both strong and have their own power bases; it's really good.
124 A Spring Dream Takes Me to Ancient Times: I Become a Workaholic in Dayin 春梦穿古我在大胤当卷王 Fifteenth of the Tenth Month拾月十五Historical147k WordsCompleted [Mystery]+ [Multiple Heroines]+ [Transmigration]+ [Golden Finger]+ [Alternate Fantasy World]+ [If It's Not Your Thing, Please Don't Complain] Just because he begged his goddess for a hug in a romantic dream, Lu Xiaochuan was kicked straight into a river in the Great Yin dynasty, launching his mortifying Transmigration adventure! The moment he climbs ashore, he's branded a suspect in the Witchcraft Cult case. He lets slip what he said in his sleep, then reveals the secret that he once saw a celes 45Reads—Score—Shelves
125 Qingqing, May You Be at Peace 卿卿其安 Gu Mingyu顾铭钰Ancient Romance251k WordsOngoing Everyone in the capital knew that the Xie family's legitimate daughter, Xie Zhaoyue, was ruthless. She pushed her half-sister into a pond with her own hands and watched coldly as she sank. Later, she went far away to Wu Commandery. After years of planning, she finally married into the Eastern Palace, just as she had hoped. She thought the game was already won. But what awaited her was the execution of the entire Xie family. Her mother left her only one message: "As long as you are here, the Xie 109Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
Snow, an old house, power, and the human heart. This historical romance novel has a powerful aftertaste. Entangled in grudges and conflicts, familial bonds, friendships, and love are all beyond one's control. The female protagonist is calm and resilient, struggling to protect herself in the scheming political game of the capital. The pacing is steady, avoiding melodrama and exaggeration, making it suitable for a slow and attentive reading experience.
126 She Just Wants to Lie Low, but They Keep Forcing Her to Rebel 她想咸鱼躺，非逼她造反 Warfires Stain All烽火尽染Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted [Screen adaptation rights sold] Lu Songli transmigrated into a book and became the cannon-fodder first wife of Xie Zhan, the male lead of The Powerful Minister's Beautiful Young Second Wife. In the book, her friend Zhao Yutan, who returned in glory from a place of exile, would steal her husband. The two of them carried on behind her back while she was gravely ill, and their affair literally angered her to death. Lu Songli was about to roll up her sleeves and tear into the cheating scumbag and 107.4kReads9.5Score12.4kShelves
Reader note
These are all exceptionally good historical romance novels with political intrigue elements. The female leads are all highly intelligent, strategic, and cunning, maintaining their sharp minds throughout the entire story. They are truly super enjoyable!
127 Help! The Horror NPCs Are Lining Up for Me to Do Their Makeup 救命！惊悚NPC都排队找我化妆 Wild Donkey Tribe野驴部落Mystery519k WordsCompleted [Horror game + NPCs + horror survival + no System] Su Qing, a workaholic makeup artist, was just working overtime. When she opened her eyes again, she had been sucked into a horror game with a 99% death rate! As she watched her teammates panic and wet themselves, the bottom-performing Slit-Mouthed Woman approached her with a pair of scissors. Su Qing despaired. But wait... This woman’s makeup is way too crude! Her professional instincts kicked in, and she blurted out, “Your makeup isn’t working. 871Reads—Score183Shelves
128 The Claiming the Throne Series: Historical Romance Collection 《夺嫡》系列古言套装 Moonset月落Ancient Romance2.8M WordsCompleted [Sweet Historical Romance + Mutual Devotion + Palace Intrigue] Popular author Yueluo's trilogy of sweet romances: lighthearted and hilarious, with sweetness turned up to the max! "The Fight for the Throne": A feisty young lady who always gets even × the scheming, lovesick Ninth Prince. A laugh-out-loud, sugar-sweet battle for the throne! "Joy with You": A venomous, calculating king × a clever and decisive queen. A perfect match who will conquer the world together! "A Fine Day Bestowed upon You": 60.6kReads9.6Score6.1kShelves
Reader note
The first book is a sweet and romantic historical romance with mutual attraction and palace intrigue. It features a vengeful young lady and a cunning, sickly ninth prince, in a hilarious and sweet journey to seize the throne! The second book features a sweet and romantic story with a villainous male lead, a seemingly innocent but actually ruthless female lead, and a tense and agonizing relationship between the two leads.
129 The Princess Isn't Human! And Neither Is Her Consort 公主殿下不是人！驸马他也不是 Wind Isle Song风屿吟Ancient Romance317k WordsOngoing [Underworld Empress: Cool and Unrivaled x Mad Demon Sovereign: A Bewitching Devoted Lapdog] [A powerful female lead, political intrigue, a romance between gods and demons, identity-reveal satisfaction, and a hilarious ensemble cast] This story defies convention and is well worth savoring! Jun Zhanyue, the Empress of Fengdu, fell in battle after suppressing a million vengeful ghosts. Her soul possessed a princess who had been murdered in nine consecutive lives. Little did she know that this trans 35Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
Is the eldest princess a goddess? No problem, her husband is a demon! The entire story is filled with power struggles, palace intrigue, martial arts duels, and court intrigue! The plot of unifying the human world hasn't been updated yet!
130 Spring Tide of Longing 念念春潮 Zhi Yun支云Ancient Romance754k WordsCompleted [Print edition under contract] [Sweet romance and comeuppance, a seemingly gentle but calculating male lead, a fierce and adorable heroine, and intense push-and-pull between the leads] The Marquis of Wuning's daughter is to be married, but the bride hangs herself. The groom is Prince Danshuo, a handsome man who enjoys the emperor's deep trust, and the emperor himself personally arranged the marriage. In their panic, the marquis's household can only find someone to take the bride's place. Cheng 73.8kReads9.4Score10.6kShelves
131 The Empress Is Alluring and Bewitching, and the Emperor Gives In to Pleasure 娘娘撩人魅惑，帝王纵情堕落 You Gongyu尤宫羽Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The Tomato short drama Kun Yi is now streaming~ [Transmigrate into a book, male lead is not a virgin but female lead is, palace intrigue, psychological games, happy ending] The Crown Prince, Jun Zechen, has seen his fair share of calculating women, and loves only those who are pure and kind. While campaigning beyond the frontier, he meets Ling Yue and is captivated by her free-spirited kindness. He promises to spend his life with her alone. But two years pass, and the Crown Princess has yet to c 118kReads9.5Score11.2kShelves
132 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
Reader note
This is a good book; the protagonist grows up and develops a broad vision.
133 Wise Men Avoid Love, and the Noble Consort Wants No Responsibility 智者不入爱河，贵妃不想负责 Uncle Luo洛叔叔Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Being a beggar would be better than being in the harem. Shen Qing is despairing over her current identity. The female lead won't appear for another two years, and Shen Qing is the lowest-ranking consort in the male lead's harem. Her father is useless, and she has neither money nor power. It seems her only option is to wait for the emperor's favor. To make matters worse, she has a face that attracts trouble. If she fights for influence, she has no leverage; if she doesn't, she'll just get bullied 45.4kReads9.5Score5.7kShelves
Reader note
Great writing! High IQ! [Please follow][Send hearts][Please follow][Please follow]
134 Reborn as a Phoenix for Ten Thousand Lifetimes 万世为凰 Full Flush, Self-Draw混一色自摸Ancient Romance293k WordsOngoing [Strong Female Lead + No Fixed Couple + Satisfying Read + Court Intrigue] [No Rebirth, No Transmigration, No System] “Why is a woman called wicked just for wanting status, power, and wealth?” Xiao Qi remains silent. Song Shixu doesn't need his answer. She turns and walks away, and the two part ways. The palace, a symbol of supreme power, gleams in dazzling splendor. Song Shixu walks toward it up the jade steps, without a moment's hesitation. 5Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
Here's a historical romance novel I enjoyed reading. The characters aren't overly perfect. The female protagonist has her own obsessions and weaknesses, and she must protect herself amidst numerous crises. The storylines of the imperial court and the harem intertwine, the conflicts are logical and well-developed, and there's no forced tension. Overall, it's a very comfortable reading experience.
135 The Heyin Coup: Empress Dowager Ling's Sixteen-Year Thirst for Power 河阴之变一灵太后的十六年权欲 Yue Fan Who Loves Barroth喜欢土砂龙的月帆Historical112k WordsCompleted Hu of the Northern Wei, the Empress Dowager Ling, was born into the Hu clan of Anding. Because her aunt was a Buddhist nun, she was able to enter the palace as a child. At the time, the Northern Wei's harsh old rule dictated that a mother must die when her son became crown prince. She insisted on giving birth to Yuan Xu anyway, and won that gamble with death. On the night Emperor Xuanwu died suddenly, she evaded an assassination attempt by the Gao clan with the protection of Yu Zhong and Cui Gua 19Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
I recommend one. A political intrigue story. So what if the protagonist is intelligent? The courtiers are intelligent too!
136 After Marrying the Mad Crown Prince to Bring Him Good Fortune 嫁给疯批太子冲喜后 You Shi尤时Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The unfavored legitimate daughter of the Mu family is ordered by imperial decree to marry the crown prince, Zhou Jing, who is at death's door, to bring him good luck. Plenty of people wait to laugh at her, saying she might just end up bringing him luck by killing him in bed. When Zhou Jing opens his eyes, he finds himself with a fiancée. The young woman is clearly terrified of him, but still can't help swearing her loyalty. “Your Highness, I'll treat you very well.” “Your Highness, after you pas 33.4kReads9.4Score4.7kShelves
Reader note
These two books are super good!
137 After the Regent Denied Me, I Turned the Court's Chessboard Upside Down 摄政王拒认后我掀翻朝堂棋局 Jiujiu Yue久久月Ancient Romance119k WordsCompleted Six years ago, the entire household of the Marquis of Zhenbei was wiped out. Xie Zhiyi survived by sheer luck and wandered the spring mountains, waiting bitterly for the man she loved, Pei Wugou. Now she stands before the Prince Regent's manor. He holds immense power over the court, yet pretends not to know her, coldly turning her away. Everyone says the Prince Regent is heartless and unfaithful, but as Xie Zhiyi investigates, step by step, she discovers that the massacre of her family concealed 11Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
Female protagonist in ancient political intrigue
138 The Playboy Won Me a Noble Title, and the Reborn Matriarch Went on a Killing Spree 纨绔为我夺诰命，重生主母杀疯了 Folded in the Mist折雾里Ancient Romance905k WordsCompleted [Signed for publication] [Clear-headed, independent true heiress x play-the-pig-to-eat-the-tiger fake wastrel] [Female-oriented fiction + heroine reborn + hero transmigrates + political intrigue] After more than ten years as the wife of the Ningyuan Marquis's heir, managing the household and dutifully serving her parents-in-law, Shen Tangning believed she had done nothing wrong. Not until the usually distant heir began an affair with her half sister, now married to his younger brother, and they 58.8kReads9.2Score7.8kShelves
139 Three and a Half Years as a Simp, Then the System Told Me I Had the Wrong Target 舔狗三年半，系统说我攻略错对象 Beauty Zhang Sanfeng美女张三疯Ancient Romance386k WordsCompleted [The physical edition of Abandon the Dark and Join Him, Volume One, is now available for purchase online] [The Second Male Lead's Redemption Arc] 1. Qiao Yin spent three years and eleven months fawning over Lu Jinzhi. Everyone in the capital knew she would marry no one but him, yet the System told her: She had pursued the wrong target. Qiao Yin: ... 2 Qiao Yin suddenly vanished from Lu Jinzhi's side. On the first day of her disappearance, Lu Jinzhi sneered: Just a little game of playing hard to 49.1kReads9.4Score6kShelves
Reader note
It's good, not simplistic, and incredibly addictive. It's so cool! Those who like this kind of thing should check it out.
140 The Disguised Dragon's Scheme: My Rogue Disciple Courts Me in His Dreams 女扮男装潜龙计，逆徒梦里泡为师 Mu Yanfeifei沐妍菲菲Ancient Romance607k WordsOngoing [Historical Intrigue + Female Spy in Disguise + Ensemble Mind Games + Martial Arts Mystery] [Female Martial Arts Master Disguised as a Man × Rebellious Disciple Who Defies His Teacher] The world is the board, and all living things are its pieces. Thirty years ago, a copy of A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains turned the tide during a palace coup. From then on, victory made kings and defeat made corpses, and the throne changed hands. Thirty years later, talents emerge across the nine regions, a 294Reads8.9Score—Shelves
Reader note
No system, pure ancient romance with political intrigue, undercover female lead, and a group of wealthy families. The female lead is calm and resourceful. She appears as a tough guy at the beginning, and the plot is foreshadowed and laid out from the first chapter. She fights wits and courage with a group of real men, step by step, aiming to conquer the world.
141 Don't Mess with the Princess Consort: She's Only Missing Virtue from the Five Elements! 王妃不能惹，她五行只缺德！ Jian Yu简钰Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [Faithful Couple + Flirting Up a Storm + Goofball Comedy + Sweet and Satisfying Romance] Mu Yunshu transmigrates straight into a nightmare on her wedding night: she's caught in bed with another man, and her groom is the ruthless, unhinged Prince Rong Jiusi, a war god! Help! With his knife pressed to her throat, she begs for her life: “Your Highness, I’m an excellent doctor, beautiful, gentle, considerate, and understanding! Sparing my life is all gain and no loss!” He asks, “You’re gentle and co 62.7kReads9.3Score7.5kShelves
142 Back to the Song Dynasty to Be a Tyrant 回到宋朝当暴君 Painting Lingyan画凌烟Historical3.2M WordsCompleted In the halls of government, rotten wood holds office. Between the palace steps, beasts feast on their salaries. Men with hearts like wolves and the ways of dogs crowd the halls of power. Toadies and bootlickers fill the ranks of government, bringing the state to ruin and the people to misery! You dare demand to know whether the sword in my hand is sharp? 169kReads9.4Score19.6kShelves
Reader note
These are all ancient-style political intrigue novels, with intelligent protagonists who scheme to control the world! 🌷🌷①: You think I didn't know you were colluding with the Jurchens? You think I didn't know you were concealing commercial taxes? Even a common man's anger can cause bloodshed, so do you know that the emperor's wrath can lead to the deaths of millions! 🌹🌹②: Servile and obsequious officials have seized power, leading to the ruin of the nation and the suffering of the people. You all dare to question whether the sword in my hand is sharp?
143 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
It's a fantastic read. ① The male lead is a prince who enters the palace disguised as a eunuch, all for revenge. The palace intrigue and power struggles are ruthless and intense. 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.
144 Your Majesty, the Empress Is Keeping the Books Again 陛下，皇后又在算账了 DuliceAncient Romance658k WordsOngoing Alternate history / politics / romance / power couple Everyone in the capital knows that the Emperor fears nothing, except the steelyard and abacus in the Empress's hands. Other empresses enter the palace to compete for favor and scheme against their rivals. His empress enters the palace and says: “Your Majesty, the accounts don't add up. The treasury is short by thirty thousand taels. Care to explain?” “Your Majesty, I put that five-thousand-tael stash you were hiding into the treasury.” “Your —Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
He appears gentle and leisurely, indifferent to politics, but in reality, he secretly plots to protect her; she is calm, insightful, and prudent, helping him through storms together. The emotional storyline is restrained and delicate, complementing the political intrigue, making for a smooth and engaging narrative.
145 What on Earth Is This? Complete in Two Volumes (The Original Novel Behind the Hit Drama Starring Wang Churan and Cheng Lei) 成何体统：全二册（王楚然、丞磊主演热播影视剧原著） Qi Yingjun七英俊Anime Fanfiction314k WordsCompleted What is it like to transmigrate into a web novel and become the tyrant's bedmate? After a few simple calculations, Yu Wanyin reached a conclusion: she would have to find another way. In this story full of villains, if she wanted to carve out a path to survival, she had to become the biggest villain of all. First, help the tyrant take down Prince Duan, then take down the tyrant and become empress herself. But when she met the tyrant and carefully considered the strange sense of familiarity in his 40.3kReads9.7Score6.3kShelves
Reader note
Highly recommended!!! Both the protagonist and the antagonist are incredibly intelligent, and there are tons of plot twists.
146 Joy with You 与君欢 Moonset月落Ancient Romance657k WordsCompleted [Palace Intrigue and Political Scheming + Marriage Before Love + Mutual Devotion] A young king and queen join hands to bring peace to the realm, brimming with ambition! A sinister, calculating ruler versus a clever, decisive queen: evenly matched, they win the world together! Jiang He, daughter of an envoy from Qi, was forced to enter the palace as a servant after her mother died and her father disappeared. Then, just before the marriage alliance, the princess of Qi died a tragic death, leaving 27kReads9.5Score3.5kShelves
Reader note
I pray to the gods to give me half of the female lead's intelligence. Who doesn't love a female-centric, empowering novel?
147 Three Feet of Spring 三尺春【王嘉懋、李十七主演短剧同名原著小说热播中！！！】 Evergreen and Everwhite长青长白Ancient Romance371k WordsCompleted The captivating beauty Li Shuwan, whose background is shrouded in mystery × the aloof, proud General Li Fengyuan, hard-mouthed but soft-hearted Ancient romance + premium novel + one-on-one romance + both leads' first love + sweet romance + mutual devotion + palace intrigue + simmering tension + secret crush + age gap + reunion after years apart When she was seven, Li Shuwan was brought back from the countryside to the General's Mansion, becoming Li Fengyuan's relative in name only. Knowing her 21.4kReads9.4Score2.5kShelves
148 I Played the Emperor My Whole Life, and After Being Reborn, He Still Wants the Crown Prince 演了皇上一辈子，重生他还要太子 One Little Sweet Fish一口小甜鱼Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted Original title: Only After His Death Did He Learn That the Empress Did Not Want to Be Buried With Him [The heroine transmigrates, the hero is reborn] As he lay dying, Emperor Tianhe looked back on his eventful life. He had risen from humble beginnings to become the founding emperor, and the world praised his achievements. In his fading consciousness, he saw his virtuous empress, his beautiful consorts, and his weeping children. He felt that his life had been complete. But after he died, his soul 31.7kReads8.9Score2.3kShelves
149 Ruling the Martial World 乾定江湖 Zhang Maojun by the Bridge桥头的章袤君21k WordsCompleted The Realm Under Heaven, Pacified 23Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
I wrote a review, and it's really, really good. "Planning the Martial World" is a breath of fresh air; it doesn't have so many mindless plots, and each character is very distinctive. I found it very enjoyable.
150 The Dragon Rises in Jinling: Reviving the Tang Dynasty for Five Hundred Years 龙起金陵，再续大唐五百年 Guest at the Deer’s Call鹿鸣客Historical163k WordsOngoing “The emperor in Chang’an, the army of the Wei residence.” The Wei residence’s household troops had become a thing of the past beneath the executioner’s blade, while the emperor in Chang’an lived in constant fear amid troubles both within and without. Does an emperor have some special birthright? Whoever commands the strongest troops and finest horses becomes emperor! Flames raged everywhere. Looking across the land, the Tang was now divided among rival regional warlords: Zhu Wen, Li Keyong, Yang 50Reads—Score—Shelves
Reader note
I recommend a new book. It's set in the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. It's a slow-burn story with no system, no cheat codes, no showing off, no mindless plots, and no cultivation. It has history, characters, war, and intrigue. It's about a son who seizes power and controls the regional warlords, eventually unifying the country and continuing the Tang Dynasty's five-hundred-year golden age!

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