Underrated Historical Romance with Excellent Writing: No Transmigration, No Cheats, No Brain-Dead Characters 冷门且文笔巨好的古言，不穿越，不外挂，不无脑

1. 301 殷 The Black Bird Chronicles of Yin Shang 殷商玄鸟纪 Sea Green Takes the Swan海青拿天鹅Ancient Romance257k WordsCompleted The young girl Ying came from the Youxin Fang Kingdom to the court of Dayi Shang. Because her mother had once shared a past with the Shang king, the current queen grew wary of Ying. She was ostracized, nearly assassinated, and even became the cause of a war. Yue, the Shang king's second son, was warm and persistent, devoted to Ying with all his heart. His mother had died young, so the king paid him little attention. Zai, the king's third son, was the son of the current queen. Because of his moth 383Reads8.5Score—Shelves
2. 302 被 Tricked Into Becoming a Concubine: This Mistress Won’t Join the Household Schemes 被骗做妾：姨娘不宅斗 Better to Long for You不如相思Ancient Romance766k WordsCompleted [Pure historical romance + the heroine has a past, the hero doesn't + fighting back against manipulation + household intrigue + palace intrigue + coercive possession + angst before a satisfying payoff + substitute for his unattainable first love + punishing scoundrels + fictional setting] For an ordinary girl, is beauty a blessing or a curse? Liu Chunjun was so beautiful that County Magistrate Chen Chaoan seized her by force and made her his concubin 1.8kReads8.9Score228Shelves
3. 303 科 Imperial Exam Triumph: The Strongest Female Grand Secretary 科举逆袭：最强女首辅 Dressed in Splendor宝妆成Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted After finally becoming the first female heir in her family, she opens her eyes and finds herself back before the revolution. Her father is dead from the start, leaving her with a frail mother and three beautiful older sisters. She is the only son who can carry on the Cheng family line... Cheng Qing looks down at her slightly developed chest, wondering what on earth went wrong. Surrounded by scheming wolves, Cheng Qing, now with a new soul in her body, sets herself two small goals: First, keep pr 8.5kReads9.5Score1.3kShelves
4. 304 羲 Xi He Leans on the Moon 羲和倚月 Mo Qing墨青Ancient Romance845k WordsCompleted A clap of thunder, and Su Xu, the newly appointed top palace graduate, finds that he has switched souls with his new bride. Thus begins the newlyweds’ hilarious life together. They do their best to play each other’s roles and serve the people through their official duties. As they support each other, their feelings gradually grow, but they soon discover they’ve already been drawn into a massive conspiracy... 471Reads8.9Score100Shelves

   Reader note

   It's an underrated book, perfectly fitting the description. The writing is superb, also perfectly fitting. In my opinion, this book is comparable to Ming and Qing dynasty novels. Worth a look.

5. 305 千 A Thousand Miles Along the Xiaoxiang, Together 千里潇湘共同途 It's Weiyang是微阳呀Ancient Romance216k WordsOngoing [Concubine's Daughter] [Political Schemes] [Revenge] [Both Leads Are Inexperienced] A noblewoman who appears gentle and dignified but is secretly ruthless × a young nobleman who seems cold and heartless but ends up eating his words One day, a talented and beautiful illegitimate daughter of the Wen family suddenly appeared in the capital. Not only was she stunning, she was also gifted. She rose to fame at a poetry gathering, soon becoming the capital's most celebrated beauty. She also won the ard 37Reads—Score—Shelves

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   This female lead is intelligent and single-mindedly focused on revenge. She mostly uses the male lead, who initially doesn't like her but gradually falls for her. The satisfying comeback is when he gets his comeuppance! Warning: This is a purely historical romance, so the pacing might be a bit slow; please enjoy it carefully.

6. 306 夺 Seizing the Jade, the Iron-Fisted Lone Minister Falls for a Beloved Maid of a Noble House 夺玉，铁腕孤臣爱上侯门宠婢 A Broad Mind Adds Years to Life心宽可增寿Ancient Romance54k WordsOngoing He had cherished that jade for over a decade, only to have it taken from him. He watered the flower, and he had lovingly handled the jade. After raising it until it was so lush and radiant, it rightfully belonged to him. But he wasn't allowed to touch it... So he couldn't stand seeing anyone else touch it, either. Whenever someone did, he felt as though they were stealing from him. She was called a maid, yet she was closer to him than any maid... She was called his bedchamber attendant, yet —Reads—Score—Shelves
7. 307 一 A Love Written on Paper 一纸情缘呐 Jie2戒2Ancient Romance347k WordsCompleted [Historical romance + powerful leads + revenge + love that grows over time + happy ending] After being sold by human traffickers to a remote, impoverished village and enduring two years of hardship, Liu Wushuang finally made it home, only to find there was no place for her in the household anymore. The parents she had once been proud of now avoided her like the plague. The elder brother who had once doted on her now looked at her coldly. The foster sister who had once followed her every lead no 24Reads6.6Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   Completed, purely historical romance novel, no rebirth system or cheat codes.

8. 308 宫 The Willow by the Palace Wall 宫墙柳 Dream Doll梦娃Ancient Romance166k WordsCompleted Why must the imperial consorts compete for the emperor’s favor? A smash-hit, heart-wrenching historical romance that burst onto the scene in 2019! Recommended by countless tearful readers, this unconventional palace-intrigue novel will stay with you long after you finish. In the lightest of styles, it captures everyone’s deepest regrets. In May of the year I turned fourteen, with the pagoda trees in fragrant bloom, I sat in Yong’an Palace, propping up my head as I dozed. The man’s laughter held 50.6kReads9.7Score7.4kShelves

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   These three books are the absolute must. Of the more than 700 books I've read, these three are the best. I highly recommend them to everyone. Don't miss them!

9. 309 与 Together with Hua Yan'er 与婳燕尔 Shi Munan十木南Ancient Romance334k WordsCompleted (The print edition is now available. Search the platform for A Pair of Swallows to purchase.) [Pure historical romance, not reborn + Marriage Before Love + One-Sided Salvation + Cherishing and Doting + Emotional Push and Pull] (Completed. Original title: A Pair of Swallows) [Sweet Romance, Both Leads Untainted: Gentle, Clever Noblewoman VS Dark, Ill-Tempered Prince] A marriage decree forced Yun Hua, the fourth daughter of the Yun family, to marry the Seventh Prince, Si Heng. The imperial edict c 25.9kReads9.3Score3.7kShelves

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   For those experiencing a reading slump!! Everyone needs to check out these two books, I absolutely adore this author. How can someone write so well? Why can't I write like that?! They're both sweet historical romance novels, the kind that will make you smile like crazy! A conspiracy leads to Mo Yuan's father and brothers being imprisoned, their lives in the hands of Yan Jingchen, the most powerful minister of Daye. To save them, Mo Yuan enters the Prime Minister's residence, only to find that the rumored ruthless Prime Minister Yan is actually a refined and noble gentleman. Despite all her sweet talk, Yan Jingchen doesn't even glance at her. "Please enlighten me, Prime Minister Yan, how can I clear my father and brothers' names?" Yan Jingchen finally put down his vermilion brush, his cold, dark eyes fixed on her, and slowly uttered four words: "A cold bed in winter..." Before coming to the Prime Minister's residence, Mo Yuan had considered many possibilities. But she never imagined becoming someone who would end up in Yan Jingchen's bed. She had only heard that Yan Jingchen was aloof and indifferent to women. Her soft voice carried a suppressed sob: "I am willing to warm your bed and comfort you, Prime Minister Yan."

10. 310 上 Spring Poems from the Capital 上京春赋 Shi Munan十木南Ancient Romance300k WordsCompleted [Signed for print publication under the title Spring Rhapsody in the Capital] [Pure historical romance, not reborn + a long-planned scheme + a touch of coercive seduction + devoted pampering and flirting + emotional push and pull] [Completed; the original title was Spring Rhapsody in the Capital] [Sweet romance, both mutually inexperienced: brave and gentle young princess x sinister, fanatical powerful minister] A conspiracy landed Mo Yuan’s father and brother in prison, their lives at the mercy 71.8kReads9.3Score5.7kShelves
11. 311 神 The Divine Doctor Assassin and Her Green-Tea Scholar 神医杀手和她的绿茶书生 Little Mouse Loves Strawberry Jam鼠鼠爱吃草莓酱Ancient Romance125k WordsOngoing [Green-tea male lead + assassin-doctor heroine + secret identities exposed + play the pig to eat the tiger + hilarious mystery + bickering couple] I’m the greatest assassin in the martial world, yet I got saddled with a sickly man while on a mission. At a black-market auction, he outbid me and snatched my target. I pretended to cry in public: “I’m carrying your child!” From behind the curtain, he feigned weakness. “Cough, cough… Miss, we’ve never even met.” Then he calmly bid, “One hundred taels 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A mind-bending and hilarious tale of a seemingly hopeless but ultimately naive and weak female lead and a cunning and manipulative male lead. The male lead appears to be a scholar but is actually the head of the intelligence organization "Star Gazing Pavilion," while the female lead is outwardly a traveling healer but is actually a top assassin for a mysterious organization. As a series of unsolved cases unfold, the outline of the mastermind behind everything gradually comes to light...

12. 312 大 My Lord! You Know You Shouldn't, Yet You Do It Anyway! 大人！你明知不可为而为之！ Qingshan Yu青山羽Ancient Romance155k WordsCompleted Su Xiaoman’s ideal life is simple: save up enough silver, return to the countryside, farm a couple of good acres, and keep a hen that lays eggs. Then one bowl of plain noodles throws all her plans into disarray. One night, Prince Pei Zhiheng follows the delicious aroma into her side courtyard. After finishing his noodles, he says two things: “Make me another bowl for breakfast tomorrow.” “What’s your name?” She answers honestly, thinking it must be a rule of the prince’s residence. Later, she’s —Reads—Score—Shelves

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    🥰🖐🏻🖐🏻🖐🏻🖐🏻

13. 313 不 Impossible! My Arrogant Husband Is Actually the Big Bad 不可能！傲娇夫君竟是大反派 Persimmon Blossom Blue柿子花蓝Ancient Romance831k WordsOngoing [Not a Wish-Fulfillment Story] [Daughter of a Cultivation Clan × Proud Young Master of the Demon Clan] Jiang Zhitang is the pampered, spoiled daughter of a prominent cultivation family. Liu Xiaoman is destined to become the demon clan’s commander. The first cultivation family he will wipe out is Jiang Zhitang’s. When they first meet, Jiang Zhitang has no idea that this boy, with a smile on his lips and delicate features, is the story’s greatest villain. After she falls for him, Liu Xiaoman smile 908Reads9.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is a spoiled and willful young lady from a family of cultivators. The male lead will become the future leader of the demon race, and the first family he will destroy is the female lead's family. The female lead never imagined that this handsome young man with a smile on his lips would be the biggest villain. After she falls for him, the male lead smiles and says, "Demons have no hearts."

14. 314 步 Splendor at Every Turn, Spring at Every Step 步步惊华步步春 Twenty-Four Flower Mornings廿四花朝Ancient Romance838k WordsOngoing The rating has just come out, so don't pay it any mind... [Pure historical romance] [Plot-driven] [Political intrigue] [Two equally matched leads] [One-on-one romance] [Everyone is clever] [Powerful prince who dominates the court vs. exceptionally intelligent illegitimate daughter] Ruan Zhenzhen is the illegitimate daughter of the Pingyang Marquis's residence. Born of a courtesan's bloodline and raised in a humble country home, she is suddenly forced into the treacherous world of the capital's n 8.3kReads8.6Score828Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a pure historical romance novel, and it's so good! The female lead is such a great character—intelligent and resilient.

15. 315 拨 Seeking Daylight Through the Snow 拨雪寻昼 A Cat on the Moon月亮一只喵Ancient Romance291k WordsCompleted “You and I have loved each other since childhood, childhood sweethearts with nothing to hide from one another.”, Ouyang Yuqian, "The Peacock Flies Southeast" [Childhood sweetheart loses to the newcomer + love grows over time] [This story is entirely fictional. Please do not read too much into it. Any resemblance to real people or events is purely coincidental.] Because their mothers had been close friends since their girlhood, and the Xie and Shen families were neighbors, Xie Chenxue and Shen Fu 695Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Palace intrigue and domestic power struggles novel; the female lead is intelligent and resourceful; historical romance.

16. 316 攻 Winning Over the Young Lord of Miaojiang 攻略苗疆少主 Running Peach奔跑的桃子Ancient Romance507k WordsCompleted Chu He transmigrates into a book. [The villain will kill the male lead, cripple the female lead, and then commit suicide out of hatred for the world. This world is about to collapse, and your mission is to save it.] The lousy System vanishes after assigning the mission. Before Chu He can even figure out what to do, she is kidnapped to Miaojiang, where she becomes the perfect mother Gu for the medicine people to cultivate their Gu. Medicine people aren’t human and have no memories of their past. 138.1kReads9.4Score14.4kShelves

    Reader note

    This is pretty good, very interesting. The male lead is from Miao territory and is particularly skilled at using Gu poison, but he's also very naive. The female lead is very clever and eloquent, constantly trying to fool the male lead. Later, the male lead also becomes more cunning; it's a mutual attraction! [Admiration]

17. 317 说 They Said She Was Only Fit to Be a Concubine? She Married Into a Powerful Family and Became Its Mistress 说她只配当妾？转身嫁高门做主母 Su Youran苏悠然Ancient Romance627k WordsCompleted [Neither the male nor female lead is transmigrated or reborn, and there are no golden fingers. They are natives of the ancient world.] They say the Third Miss Yang Liu of the capital has a willow-thin waist and skin like ice, a rare beauty. But when the family split, she filed a legal complaint against her own uncle, earning him a notorious reputation and leaving everyone shaking their heads. Who would marry such a fierce troublemaker? Even her fiancé called off the engagement... Chu Yan, the el 13.3kReads9.3Score1.9kShelves

    Reader note

    No time travel or reincarnation, this book is quite good.

18. 318 司 The Retired Life of a Female Court Archivist 司籍女官的退休日常 Jing Ban静半Ancient Romance561k WordsCompleted [Fictional setting, not a transmigration or rebirth story + household intrigue + lady of the house] [Early story: self-reliant junior female official x by-the-book prefect] [Later story: perceptive and sensible lady of the house x scheming grand secretary] Wu Xi has spent thirteen years in the palace, struggling her way up, cautious and restrained, dodging countless hidden attacks. At last, she earns the position of sixth-rank female official in charge of the palace library. But then the former 1.1kReads8.6Score105Shelves

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    🍎🍓🍉🍒🍑 No time travel, no reincarnation, purely ancient setting 🌺🌸🌼🏵️💐 The union of a retired female official in her late twenties and a reclusive widower prefect is the result of weighing the pros and cons; there is initial excitement, but not much. The female lead is intelligent and composed, while the male lead is cunning and deep. Being from ancient times, the male lead initially has concubines and children, but becomes devoted to the female lead after marriage [smirk]. 🍍🍋🍌🍊🥭 May your life be filled with happiness and companionship. The female lead is clear-headed and maintains a good balance. She loves and hates with moderation, remaining calm and composed, neither obsessed nor greedy—this is the key to lasting happiness. 🌳

19. 319 朱 Willows by the Vermilion Gate 朱门柳 Nine Startling Dreams九惊梦Ancient Romance912k WordsOngoing [An alternate-history Tang-inspired aristocratic family saga of power and intrigue, told through a cast of women.] [Romance is only a touch of color. Survival and ambition are the story’s true foundations. No transmigration, extraordinary encounters, or golden finger, and no one-dimensional villains.] [Main characters: Xiao Lingxi, Xiao Yunxiu, Xiao Yungui, in no particular order] An age of prosperity approaches its end, and the Rongguo estate teeters amid the storm. The eldest daughter, Xiao Li 392Reads8.1Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    It's probably a very long novel, absolutely amazing!

20. 320 皇 Has the Noble Consort Left Qirong Palace Today? 皇贵妃今天出栖容宫了吗？ Xiaoman Crisp小满酥Ancient Romance528k WordsCompleted [☆No transmigration, no rebirth, and no pristine couples] [☆The romance develops gradually] Everyone in the palace knew that the person they must never offend was neither the pampered and fiery Noble Consort Hui nor the peerlessly beautiful Consort Cen, but Noble Consort Zhe of Qirong Palace, Lady Fucha. A consort's guide to survival: If you want to get ahead, never provoke the lady of Qirong Palace. She was the emperor's first woman, his companion and confidante since their youth; the mother 15kReads9.3Score1.3kShelves
21. 321 令 The Order Official 令官 Chinese Loropetalum in the South南有檵木Ancient Romance1.0M WordsOngoing [Now publishing. Official release at 7:00 p.m. on May 15. Stay tuned.] ◆ Keywords: political intrigue in troubled times, alternate world, woman disguised as a man, ensemble cast, conflict between men and women, playing the pig to eat the tiger. . Heroine: Yu Shiyi Hero: Qi Yanzhen Second Heroine: Bai Fu Second Hero: Si Song . ♥ The novel has a slow burn. Read at your own discretion! ♥ . ◆ One-line summary: A portrait of ordinary people in troubled times. . ◆ Summary from the leads’ perspective: 3.2kReads8.9Score400Shelves

    Reader note

    I don't know if this is considered obscure, but I highly recommend it. You won't regret reading it. The first three books are by the same author, and the last two are sister books. They are all very good!

22. 322 寒 A Cold Crow Nests in Your Heart 寒鸦栖君心 Wind and Sunset风夕阳Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Everyone envies the Prince of Beian for loving his wife beyond all measure, with a love as deep as the sea. No one knows he won this perfect life by risking everything. Yan Junjue clawed his way out of a mountain of corpses in the Cold Palace. He was bloodthirsty and ruthless, a possessive, obsessive madman whose jealousy was carved into his bones. Everyone in the world feared him. Only Cui Yunqi was a little warmth in his endless darkness. She was the proud and steadfast lord of Hanya City, dev 9.8kReads8.8Score984Shelves

    Reader note

    The first book is a tragic romance. The male lead is incredibly powerful, possessive, and jealous. The female lead isn't love-struck and has her own integrity. I cried a ton of tissues reading it. Highly recommended! [Sending heart] The second book is an ancient political intrigue novel—palace intrigue and domestic power struggles, all intricately linked. A childhood sweetheart with explosive possessiveness versus a loyal bodyguard who protects her with his life. The female lead isn't love-struck—a clear-headed and rational legitimate daughter. Highly recommended! [Admiration]

23. 323 斩 Cutting Spring 斩春 Chinese Loropetalum in the South南有檵木Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted ༆ Original title: "Slaying Spring", courtesy title: "Three Thousand Miles of Floating Light", also known as "A Little Bookshop in Chang'an" . "The audiobook is now available. Give it a listen!" . [Historical fantasy, farming, ancient romance, healing, opening a bookshop, romance, with a strong focus on the love story.] · [Heroine: Xu Jiang ★ Hero: Lou Yunchun] · [Other characters: Hu Xu ★ Song Li, Zeng Zhui ★ Lin Hongchu, Lin Qinnian ★ Madam Lin, Lou Jing ★ Madam Lou. Du Hui, Yuan Zuzu, Wu Zhi, 20kReads9.5Score3kShelves
24. 324 权 A Woman in Power 权姝 Wind and Sunset风夕阳Ancient Romance628k WordsCompleted Legitimate daughter | Devoted hidden guard × Long-suffering childhood friend, the prince | Pure romance | Court intrigue | Strong female lead | Nation and family The court of the Great Qi dynasty is in turmoil, with the struggle for the throne brewing beneath the surface. The Molong cavalry bears down on Zhenmen Pass, where starving, freezing soldiers hold the border with their flesh and blood. On the battlefields of a troubled age, it is not only men who march to their deaths. Fu Ziyou brav 534Reads—Score—Shelves
25. 325 半 Half a Lifetime of Leisure 半生闲 There's a Little Deer有一只小鹿Ancient Romance168k WordsOngoing There is a shop called Nian. A young shop assistant who remembers nothing of his past happens upon the shop, where he encounters strange and wondrous tales and begins his own adventure. A contract with ghosts and gods, an equal exchange. Do you believe in fate? Fate says she and he are destined to meet. You were the one in my past life, and you are the one in this life, too. I only wish to hold your hand, share life's simple joys, and spend half a lifetime at ease. —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I'm also a small-time writer, and honestly, I stumbled upon this book by accident. The author's writing is excellent, and they have a strong cultural foundation. However, because it's so niche, not many people read it. It's somewhat similar to the style of "The Silent Shop," which I find very enjoyable! I urge everyone to check it out; I don't want this book to be overlooked!

26. 326 渡 Crossing the Azure Bones 渡青骨 Chinese Loropetalum in the South南有檵木Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [Traditional fantasy, romantic fantasy, no System, no rebirth, amnesia and a secret identity] Main Characters: ★ Heroine: Fu Qinggu (Immortal Venerable Lingye, Daoist Green Marrow) ★ Hero: Bai Hui (flood dragon, white dragon) ༆ Story Introduction She was once the aloof and transcendent Immortal Venerable Lingye of the Zixiao Thunder Palace, exalted above all. But while hunting a vicious beast that was wreaking havoc among mortals, she fell in the depths of the North Sea and vanished from the 4.7kReads9.3Score672Shelves
27. 327 泼 The Fiery Second Madam Shen 泼辣沈二娘子 The Sleepy Kitty爱睡觉的喵Ancient Romance701k WordsOngoing The Shen family of Tongji City is comfortably well-off. The family of seven should have been living happily together, but fate had other plans. Shen Muqing, the head of the household, suddenly passed away, leaving his widowed wife and young son and daughter to face a world full of predators... 46Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    To brag a little, it's worth a look, give it a try!

28. 328 斩 Severing Worldly Ties 斩尘缘 Yi Ran怡然Ancient Romance1.7M WordsCompleted The sister novel to The Xie Family’s Short-Lived Ghost Has a Long Life, the second book in the Duology of Death. [Film and television rights sold] Wei Dongjun’s uncle left behind a letter of denunciation, then suddenly hanged himself. Because of that letter, the illustrious Wei family fell from the heights to the depths. Everyone else accepted their fate. Wei Dongjun alone refused. She would search the heavens above and the underworld below to ask her uncle one question: Why? On the seventh day 29.3kReads9.2Score4.3kShelves
29. 329 夫 My Wife Is Timid and Unassuming 夫人胆小木讷 The Sleepy Kitty爱睡觉的喵Ancient Romance687k WordsCompleted Two people born to concubines were forced together for the sake of their family’s interests. One was a talented young man, the other bland and taciturn; one had genuine ability, the other only pretended to be dull; one wanted to make a name for himself, the other just wanted to play dumb… 9.4kReads8.4Score881Shelves

    Reader note

    You could give it a try. There are no messy character relationships, no internal strife or infighting. It's just the male and female leads supporting and understanding each other, walking together on the road to prosperity.

30. 330 阿 Ah Li 阿漓 The Sensitive-Skin Toast Lover爱吃吐司的敏感肌Ancient Romance696k WordsCompleted She was the eldest daughter of the Protector General’s household in Great Liang, yet she was born with the ability to understand the language of beasts… She should have enjoyed a life of luxury, but at the age of five she was sent away to face the world alone… She longed for the love of family, only to be abandoned by her relatives again and again… Time after time, hope was within reach, only for disappointment to follow! It turned out she had come into this world alone, and was destined to leav 17.1kReads9.1Score1.7kShelves

    Reader note

    This one!!! No time travel, no reincarnation, no cheat codes, just a classic ancient romance! The story is original, and the writing is excellent! A must-read, highly recommended!

31. 331 好 As Though I Have Powerful Backing 好似有靠山 Shu Guimei舒归妹Ancient Romance445k WordsCompleted [One-on-one romance + healing + age gap + coming-of-age + a touch of possessive romance] After both her parents died, Gu Xixi had no choice but to rely on her only remaining relative, her maternal uncle. Though he was ruthless and calculating, he did take reasonably good care of her. But could someone explain why this uncle of hers was getting stranger and stranger? Who was it that tore away the facade of family affection, wanting more? Who fell without realizing it? And who walked into the gate 241Reads—Score107Shelves

    Reader note

    A sweet and heartwarming historical romance where the male lead is cunning and slightly forceful. It starts off slowly but gets better and better as you watch, a gentle, gradual progression with subtle political intrigue. A truly enjoyable read.

32. 332 大 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 6kReads9.3Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    "Why Not Cross the River Together" by the same author is my absolute favorite; I've listened to it three times already. I just discovered that the newly started "The Black Lotus of the Ming Dynasty" is also very good, but I'll have to wait patiently for the serialization. Currently, I'm experiencing a reading slump, so I'm relistening to "The Story of the Hairpin." I've also enjoyed Hai Qing's "Take the Swan" books before.

33. 333 状 The Top Scholar's Scheme: The Caged Sparrow of the Eastern Palace 状元谋：东宫囚雀 Young Master Xingyue星月公子Ancient Romance240k WordsCompleted [Two powerful leads, both devoted to one another + woman disguised as a man + obsessive, unhinged love + political intrigue + the male lead pursues his wife] Male lead: Gentle and refined on the surface, deranged within. Female lead: Disguised as a man, clear-headed and self-possessed. She disguises herself as a man to clear her family's name. Instead, she catches the eye of an obsessive, unhinged crown prince. He thinks he's the one pulling the strings, never realizing that in the end, he will 4Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It seems like it's almost finished serialization, but the rating hasn't been released yet. But it's incredibly good. The emotional rollercoaster is both heart-wrenching and sweet. Chapter 50 is so agonizing, and chapter 90 is so sweet it'll make you cry. It's a slow burn, so if you can't stick with it until the end, I really feel sorry for you 😜😜

34. 334 云 The Beauty Who Returned with the Clouds, Feisty and Mischievous 云归美人娇，暴躁又作妖 Ju Lai Fu Xi橘徕服兮Ancient Romance510k WordsCompleted [Secret identities + strong heroine + goofy comedy + mutual salvation + everyone’s darling + episodic stories] Goofy version: The proprietor of the Cloudreturn Inn, Hua, is beautiful, fierce, and highly skilled. She takes on heaven, earth, and even thin air, putting every sore loser in their place. The inn’s young attendant, Yun, is peerlessly handsome and good-natured. He can fight, leap about, and handle any situation, and he’s an expert at coaxing the proprietor whenever she gets into a fuss. 22Reads8.1Score—Shelves
35. 335 高 Raising a Noble Lady of the Great Houses 高门贵女养成记 A Cat on the Moon月亮一只喵Ancient Romance347k WordsCompleted In a nutshell, this is the growth diary of Fang family’s noble daughter. Her father favors his concubine over his wife, and her aunt and illegitimate younger sister run wild. Fortunately, her clever and resourceful mother teaches Fang Yanxi well, and despite her surroundings, Fang Yanxi grows into a fine young lady of a prominent family. [This is a fictional setting for a trial project, so please don’t take it too seriously. A novice’s work, written for my own practice.] 431Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Local female protagonist, growth of a noblewoman, a story of two strong characters.

36. 336 簪 The Record of Hairpins (Complete in 4 Volumes) 簪中录（全4册） A Chilly Breeze on Either Side侧侧轻寒Mystery992k WordsCompleted The little red fish Agashnie, which feeds on human blood; the mysterious talisman that had followed Li Shubai for years; Empress Wang, the peerless beauty of the Daming Palace; three clusters of doodles written by the late emperor himself before his death; a marriage contract made with Wang Yun in their youth... Every mystery returns to its point of origin. Every choice remains beyond anyone’s control, as impossible to resist or escape as fate itself. Yang Chonggu has returned to the palace and 17.3kReads9.7Score2.8kShelves
37. 337 穿 Transmigration: A Dream Beneath the Pagoda Tree 穿越：一枕入槐安 Seven-Cake Tea七子饼茶Ancient Romance150k WordsCompleted A clueless archaeology student who'd been running errands all over the place transmigrates one day, only to wake up and find that the subject of her research has come to life. As she goes about her life, she discovers that the artifacts in the museum are coming into existence right before her eyes! And as she goes about her life some more, she discovers that the wealthy marquis, known throughout history for his ruthless decisiveness, is actually a warm-hearted and considerate man beneath his coo 35Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    If you've ever been to the Hunan Provincial Museum, you've surely seen the lacquer ear cup unearthed from Tomb No. 3 At Mawangdui. It features a charmingly chubby cat with its tail curled up, and next to it are three small characters: "" (May the lord enjoy this meal). This novel tells me that it's not just an ordinary design. It's a love letter from two thousand years ago, painstakingly carved by a general named Li Xi on the eve of his death, knowing full well he was going to die.

38. 338 一 A Single Thought of Perfect Enlightenment 一念圆明 Yi Wantang意晚棠Modern Romance157k WordsCompleted [Fated reunion across past and present lives · Modern/Ancient] Impoverished painter × young general Graduate student in history × mysterious collector Time passed, and the years gathered dust. When he met her again, he no longer knew how many springs and autumns he had wandered through alone. He said, “I’ve liked you for a long time.” “A long time?” Shen Que murmured in disbelief. Surely she was the one who had liked him for so long. “How could you have liked me for a long time?” By her reck 130Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The writing is delicate and fluent, and the ancient parts are full of antique charm.

39. 339 日 Drunk on the Road Home at Dusk 日暮醉归途 Mu Qiqi暮萋萋Ancient Romance2.2M WordsCompleted The cool, intelligent beauty Shui Qiaoyou, a general of the former dynasty, and the pure-hearted, reserved prince Chu Moli, a prince of the current dynasty Historical romance, no transmigration, no palace intrigue, no household drama, one-on-one romance, strong female lead. Shui Qiaoyou felt as though she’d merely fallen asleep. When she opened her eyes again, a hundred years had passed. Her homeland, family, and friends were like smoke, long since vanished into the river of time. Fate had left 13.8kReads9.1Score1.6kShelves

    Reader note

    I absolutely have to recommend this book! I've read it countless times and always give it a thumbs up. The female lead has an incredibly cool and aloof vibe, and the story is strong on both sides—the female lead is a martial arts expert with maxed-out skills, and the logic is clear and well-organized!

40. 340 困 Trapped in the Bright Hall 困明台 White Sugar Zongzi Spirit白糖粽子精Ancient Romance109k WordsCompleted The Supreme Empress × the enemy kingdom’s Crown Prince By the standards of the world, Zhou Zuheng is an outstanding ruler, one of a kind. In matters of the heart, she destroyed his Northern Qi and killed his closest kin. She should never have shown mercy, but she kept him by her side, letting him watch as she built a prosperous age with no equal before or after. A hundred years later, the histories praise and condemn her in equal measure. But written words are so powerless. How could they record 4Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a purely historical romance novel. The female lead is an empress, and the male lead is the crown prince of an enemy country who becomes part of her harem. The story largely focuses on national affairs and how harsh that era was on women. The female lead sacrifices a great deal to help more girls become better versions of themselves. During this time, the male lead succumbs to the female lead's governing abilities and even abandons his own country's restoration for her sake. There's also a supporting character, Xiao Xu, who truly dedicates his entire life to changing women's lives.

41. 341 咔 Cut! Abandoned for Three Years, the Ninth Princess Returns with a Vengeance 咔！被弃三年，九公主回归杀疯了 Nanhuang南凰Ancient Romance337k WordsCompleted [Strong heroine, feel-good revenge, reborn, taking down scum, princess held hostage, nation and family] On her wedding night, Yu Tang was caught in bed with another man. Her mother-in-law and husband pointed at her and called her promiscuous, while his mistress, pregnant before marriage, swaggered into the house and bossed her around like a righteous mistress of the household. Yu Tang couldn’t be bothered to argue. She grabbed Prince Consort Pei by the hair and slammed his head hard against the 871Reads8.5Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    A vivid character portrayal: The Ninth Princess is a vivid character. She not only possesses stunning beauty but also a resilient heart and a brilliant mind. After experiencing tremendous life-changing events, she transforms from an innocent princess into a cunning and ruthless avenger. This character arc is very compelling.

42. 342 蓦 When I Turned Around, That Person Was Still There 蓦然回首，那人依旧 Yue Lingyin悦凌茵Ancient Romance314k WordsCompleted After leaving her child behind and being forced out, she has returned to settle the score... "From beginning to end, all I wanted was to hold on to his sleeve and follow him to become immortals... But... I can never hold on to that sleeve... I thought fate had finally smiled upon me, but what awaited me was an imperial decree ordering that I be killed after giving birth, while my child was kept... A person whose life is as worthless as grass has only one way to stand tall before others..." 38.9kReads9.0Score3.5kShelves

    Reader note

    The writing style is humorous and witty, with substance and avoiding clichés.

43. 343 天 Peace Under Heaven 天下长安 Lan Jia Sanshao蓝家三少Ancient Romance1.7M WordsCompleted Princess Yiyang of Dazhao is breathtakingly beautiful, ruthless, and cruel. While the late emperor still lived, she kept male favorites, amassed private troops, purged the imperial harem, and schemed for an heir. She was more brazen and domineering than the few useless princes. After the emperor died, she seized power, purged the court, killed senior officials, and placed a new emperor on the throne. She ruled as a woman who usurped a man’s role, controlled the court, and held the Son of Heaven 1.3kReads9.0Score147Shelves

    Reader note

    Princess Chang'an of Baili was decisive and ruthless, exuding domineering aura throughout.

44. 344 下 The Cast-Off Wife 下堂妻 Andersen Lives Next Door隔壁住着安徒生Ancient Romance211k WordsCompleted [Gentle, clever orphan girl VS aloof, proud young nobleman] [The husband’s long road to winning her back + strong heroine + divorce + rekindled love + business rivalry + court intrigue] Lin Wan was Xiao Jingxing’s wife. She met him when she was eleven. At twenty-one, her heart broken, she became his cast-off wife. From then on, the girls whose relationships with Xiao Jingxing had been ambiguous, the prime minister’s daughter, a comrade-in-arms’ younger sister, and a famous courtesan, finally had 4.6kReads8.9Score360Shelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommend this book! The female lead is intelligent, self-reliant, and not pretentious—I've read it three times.

45. 345 凤 Her Phoenix Fate Stolen? She Helps the Powerful Prince Seize the Throne and Goes on a Killing Spree 凤命被夺？转身扶权王登基杀疯了 Zhi Ning之宁Ancient Romance242k WordsOngoing [Resilient, sweet-faced-on-the-outside, dark-hearted Black Lotus beauty vs. cold, ruthless, possessive, scheming mad prince] [Taking by force + revenge-driven Black Lotus + winning her heart and her body + chasing his wife to the crematorium + political intrigue] In her previous life, her legitimate elder sister set her up. Her innocence was ruined, her reputation destroyed, and the Crown Prince broke off their engagement. Before she could catch her breath, she was forced to marry into a wastrel —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is great! It's a traditional ancient romance, the kind with a classic feel—involving power struggles and ruthless acquisition! Both the male and female leads are scheming and have been plotting for a long time; they're both strong! The female lead had a tragic past life, but is incredibly cool and capable after her rebirth—guaranteed to be a good read! Very immersive! There's also a small ensemble cast, and the supporting characters are vividly portrayed! Worth a try!

46. 346 表 My Alluring Cousin Turns the Mad Young Lord into a Puppy! 表妹娇媚，把疯批世子调成修勾！ 11 Means 1111就是11Ancient Romance236k WordsCompleted [Possessive love + lofty beauty brought down from her pedestal + both virgins + forced love] Mad, powerful minister × pure, innocent sweetheart A great fire took Qifu’s happy family from her. With her dying breath, her mother told her to seek refuge with her aunt, who had married into the Duke’s household. After Qifu arrives at the Duke’s estate, she is drawn into the world of this aristocratic family. Her aunt’s death and her desire for bloody revenge leave her no choice but to approach Xie Jin 1.8kReads6.4Score124Shelves

    Reader note

    📖 Morbid Obsession X Delicate and Fragile 📖 An inescapable storm of plunder, making even the heart tremble! His desire for control is off the charts; once his eyes lock onto his prey, he will never let go! Gentleness is a facade; possession is instinct. His ruthless methods are solely for imprisoning her!

47. 347 楮 A Book by Chu Mo Hua He 楮墨画鹤的一本书 Paper and Ink Paint Cranes楮墨画鹤Ancient Romance477k WordsCompleted [Both leads are inexperienced + sweet romance + household intrigue + historical setting + mutual secret crush + rekindled love + groveling to win her back] When Shen Yunwan first arrives in the capital, all she wants is to live quietly as a cousin in the Marquis of Zhenbei’s household. Through a twist of fate, she spends a passionate night with her older male cousin, Wei Hanzhou, even though they’ve barely exchanged a few words. If this scandal gets out, her reputation will be ruined and she’ll 42Reads6.9Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is indeed niche, but the writing is excellent, delicate and smooth! There's no time travel or reincarnation, no cheat codes, and both the male and female leads are purely ancient people, plus the female lead isn't a saint! The female lead has both a career storyline and a detective storyline, and she's got substance!

48. 348 将 The Bride-to-Be 将嫁 Echoes Linger for Three Days绕梁三日Ancient Romance287k WordsCompleted Three years ago, to pacify the western frontier, he married the daughter of the Governor-General of Yongzhou as his empress. But during his lifetime, he met Huo Shiying, the one and only woman of her kind, and the sole female general in the Great Yan dynasty. She doesn't know, and no one else does either, that he has followed her life for twenty whole years. When he was six, he first heard his mother and eldest sister mention her name, and wondered how a two-year-old girl could have been taken t 25kReads9.6Score3.3kShelves

    Reader note

    A female general with flesh and blood, a book that will make you laugh and cry.

49. 349 世 Prisoner of the Aristocratic Clan 世家囚 Three Autumns in Fine Print细书三秋Ancient Romance421k WordsCompleted Duanmu Heng had always believed that his wife, Shangguan Hui, was nothing more than a marriage pawn foisted on him by her family, one that needed to be kept under strict control. So he kept her at a distance, tested her, and held her firmly in his grasp. Until one day, she risked her life to save another man. The cautious, brilliant woman before him was nothing like the gentle wife he remembered. Only then did he realize that in all nine years of their marriage, he might never have truly known h 2.1kReads8.7Score210Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is the legitimate daughter of a noble family, and the male lead is a general from a family of military merit. The two are united by a political marriage, becoming engaged at the very beginning despite being complete strangers. Based on the story of Sima Shi and Xiahou Hui during the Wei and Jin Dynasties, their love naturally blossoms against the backdrop of a political marriage.

50. 350 高 My Cold Husband Became a Rogue After Regaining His Memories 高冷夫君恢复记忆后竟变成流氓 Light Wind, Ink White轻风墨白Ancient Romance362k WordsCompleted Lighthearted + ridiculous + silly, super-sweet romance + a little farming Among the fourteen households, there was one unmarried older woman, notorious for her awful reputation and disliked by everyone, even the dogs. The childhood sweetheart who had grown up in the same village became the top scholar. Girls around her age already had children old enough to run errands. She waited until she was practically wasting away, growing thinner as her tea went cold. At last, one day, she bought a fair-s 895Reads8.9Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    These three novels are all being updated, but they are all very good...

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