Looking for a Smart, Rational Political Intrigue Novel 求正常的高智商权谋文

1. 1 寒 The Poor Scholar's Rise 寒门贵子 Beyond the Mountain山的那边Historical2.1M WordsCompleted After transmigrating into the body of a penniless scholar, Jiang Feng thought about how his computer science degree from his previous life was utterly useless here… Then it occurred to him: “Of all pursuits, studying is the noblest. I’ll just have to grit my teeth and take the imperial exams!” He kept going, and when he suddenly looked back, he had risen to the highest offices, expanded the empire’s borders, and built an unprecedented legacy! P.S. The new book, A Poor Scholar of the First Rank, 33.7kReads9.1Score3.3kShelves

   Reader note

   These books are absolutely amazing! I'd read the first one elsewhere before, but I was surprised to find it on Tomato Books, so I reread it. I really loved the second one; it's a parenting story, but waiting for it to finish is quite agonizing. The third one is truly excellent. It's about an emperor governing a country, and it doesn't just depict the emperor, but also his ministers in great detail.

2. 2 乱 A Lone Woman in Troubled Times, Plotting an Age of Prosperity 乱世孤女，谋千古盛世 Lingering Fragrance and Faded Powder旧香残粉Ancient Romance2.2M WordsOngoing [Strong Female Lead + No CP + Empress + Ensemble Cast + Political Scheming + War + Power Struggles in a Chaotic Era + Nation-Building and Farming + No Spatial Storage or System + Slow-Burn Growth + Epic Length] Yun Huaijin suddenly became a "corpse" in a world torn apart by chaos. She crawled out of a pile of bodies, with only a child on the verge of starving to death beside her. In this world, nobles lived in drunken indulgence, powerful clans monopolized knowledge, bandits slaughtered withou 25.5kReads8.9Score3.2kShelves

   Reader note

   A story of a strong female protagonist who grows slowly from humble beginnings, navigating power struggles without a romantic partner. The female lead is practically a hexagonal warrior, capable of both warfare and governance. Despite having no power or influence, she builds her own power base. There are more male characters in the early stages, so please don't read if you mind. The female characters only start to shine in the middle stages, all because the female lead brings them new possibilities, awakens their consciousness, and allows them to form their own growth paths. It's a true ensemble piece.

3. 3 侯 The Marquis's Widow Raised a Household of Geniuses 侯夫人守寡，却养出满门天骄 Yu Fu余弗Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Tang Shuyi transmigrated into the Great Qian dynasty, becoming the wife of the Marquis of Yongning. She was rich, powerful, and high-status, with no parents-in-law and a dead husband: she had it better than almost anyone else who had transmigrated. Just as she was about to enjoy a comfortable life as a wealthy noblewoman, she discovered that she had transmigrated into a book, and was its biggest villain. She wasn’t just rich, powerful, and high-status. She also had three unruly children. The eld 70.5kReads9.4Score10.4kShelves
4. 4 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 1.2kReads9.1Score130Shelves

   Reader note

   The female lead is amazing! I absolutely love characters who are smart, intelligent, and highly skilled in martial arts! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

5. 5 我 My Father Is the Emperor Who Begs at the Gate 我老爹是叫门皇帝 Bald Li San光头李三Historical2.2M WordsCompleted In the fourteenth year of the Zhengtong reign, my father, Zhu Qizhen, personally led an expedition beyond the borders, hoping to spread the might of the Great Ming far and wide. He never expected it to be like sending meat buns to a dog: he went out and never came back, becoming the Emperor Who Knocked at the Gates. Once he was no longer useful, they sent him back to the capital and confined him in the Southern Palace. Now Father is knocking at the gates again. Zhu Jianshen, who had been countin 55.7kReads8.8Score4kShelves
6. 6 南 South Branches Toward Dusk, The Regent Has Been Plotting This for Ages 南枝向晚，摄政王他蓄谋已久 Doudou from Zhongyue Province中月省的逗逗Ancient Romance726k WordsCompleted [Just received a rating] Complete ◎ [Revenge after being reborn + mastery of medicine and poison + powerful leads who cherish each other + everyone’s a schemer + palace intrigue and political machinations] Important: No stupid villains. Everyone has eight hundred tricks up their sleeve, and the battle of wits is at its peak! In her previous life, Shen Nanzhi, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo’s family, was blind to the truth. She used a forbidden technique to save a scumbag man, dr 22.4kReads8.8Score2.6kShelves

   Reader note

   [Completed, Rebirth and Revenge + Healing and Poisoning Mastery + Two Strong Individuals Pampered by Each Other + Everyone's Clever and cunning + Palace Intrigue and Power Struggle] Highlight: No villains with low intelligence; everyone is incredibly cunning, a battle of wits at its peak! In her past life, Shen Nanzhi, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion, went blind and used forbidden techniques to drain her life force to save her scumbag husband. In return, she found him secretly having an affair with her scheming cousin, leading to the tragic deaths of her entire loyal family! Reborn, she holds silver needles, returning to the day she used poison to prolong her husband's life. Facing his expectant gaze and her cousin's feigned tears, Shen Nanzhi coldly withdrew her needles: "I won't cure the poison. Since my cousin is so deeply in love, why don't you bleed her and cut her flesh?" In this life, she tears off the disguise, possessing unparalleled healing and poisoning skills, able to bring the dead back to life and heal the wounded! Xiao Duo, the Regent of Dayuan, a powerful and influential ruler, suffers greatly from a rare poison. Shen Nanzhi tossed down the antidote, her voice cold and arrogant: "I will extend Your Highness's life. Lend me your blade to slaughter all the demons and monsters, how about it?" The world believed the Duke's daughter was merely a delicate canary in the palm of a living Yama. Only when powerful officials took center stage, and deadly schemes unfolded one after another, did everyone realize with horror—the seemingly fragile Shen Nanzhi was actually a master strategist, a female Zhuge Liang who held the reins of power and calculated every move! She and he entrusted their lives to each other, slaying gods and demons alike, manipulating the entire court with ease! When the bloody path was cleaved through, the world was at peace. The ruthless regent, who struck fear into the hearts of all under heaven, shed his menacing aura and held her tightly in his arms, his voice low and hoarse with fervor: "Zhizhi, the realm is settled. This vast and beautiful land is my dowry; when will you finally grant me a title?!" —A ruthless and decisive medical and poison queen × A crazed regent who bows down to her; together, they join forces to slaughter all demons and monsters!

7. 7 乱 After Fleeing the Chaotic Era, I Became the Founding Empress 乱世逃亡后，我成了开国女帝 Nan Wanxu南婉徐Ancient Romance4.1M WordsCompleted [Publication rights signed] [Strong heroine + political intrigue + turbulent times + power struggles + ensemble cast] She’s fleeing from the start, a female warlord in a chaotic age. Lin Zhihuang, originally named Lin Zhihuan, transmigrates as a county magistrate’s daughter, only to find tens of thousands of refugees attacking the city from the start! While others transmigrate into palace or household intrigue, she transmigrates straight into a chaotic age and a desperate flight from famine. The 98.2kReads9.4Score13.6kShelves

   Reader note

   I would cry if anyone hadn't read this book.

8. 8 太 The Empress Dowager Reborn: A Phoenix’s Plot for the Empire 太后重生：凤谋天下 Gu Yu孤妤Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted [Strong heroine + ensemble cast + political intrigue] Reborn, she turns the world into a board and all living beings into pieces. She is the one pulling the strings behind the scenes. Slender, pale hands, an icy gaze She moves her pieces, a faint smile on her lips Why should beauty worry? Reborn, risen from the ashes A phoenix’s schemes hide in her lotus-bloom bones Her name will live on in the annals of history Willow branches in her hometown, the moon a hook She watches generals and princes 1.3kReads9.0Score188Shelves

   Reader note

   The first book perfected the art of political intrigue. Both the male and female leads are highly intelligent; the female lead is clear-headed and strong, while the male lead is domineering and resilient. "That moon wasn't my moon, but for a moment, its light did shine on me." Choosing a lover doesn't require many criteria, just three: they won't lie to you, won't hurt you, and are willing to be happy with you, without thinking too much, healthy and chubby, full of hope to explore the stars and return still a youthful spirit. And say goodbye to all your troubles and say hi to all your happiness!

9. 9 穿 Reborn as the Crown Prince of a Fallen Kingdom, I Throw Myself into the Enemy’s Arms 穿成亡国太子我直接投入敌军怀抱 Hu Yan.胡言.Two Male Leads1.2M WordsCompleted Completed. Search “Fanqie Listen” for the full-cast audiobook. [Manic, unhinged, vicious beauty vs. proper, restrained, aloof Buddha-like lord] [Two male leads + equally matched + mutual secret crush + both virgins] From the start, he was on an ancient battlefield, surrounded by soldiers and generals splattered with blood. He was the crown prince of a fallen kingdom. With a sworn enemy ahead, pursuers behind, and the burden of restoring his country on his shoulders, who could stay sane? While he 14kReads9.6Score2.2kShelves
10. 10 双 Bound Together Across Two Lifetimes, We’ll Grow Old Together 双世缱绻，与君共白头 Dreamer Dadao爱做梦的大道Ancient Romance727k WordsCompleted [Two powerful leads who rise to greatness | Complete souls | Extreme contrast | Love across two lifetimes | Sweet romance and court intrigue] A modern married couple are reborn as babies in the Tianqi Dynasty. He becomes an iron-fisted Crown Prince, commands the Xuanhuo Army, and plots to industrialize the realm. She becomes a queen of commerce, controls trade routes along three borders, and holds the lifeblood of the people in her hands! Toward their enemies, he presides over the execution of t 5.4kReads8.1Score637Shelves

    Reader note

    The ultimate sweet romance + political intrigue novel has arrived! A modern soul transmigrates into the body of a delicate legitimate daughter, only to bump into a fiercely protective and ruthless Prince Chen. It's so sweet it's almost sickening, yet not mindless at all! New policies are implemented slowly and without unnecessary drama, and political intrigue is handled without requiring much brainpower. The two join forces to build their careers and protect their country. It's an intelligent romance, sweet, satisfying, and addictive. Ancient romance lovers, go for it!

11. 11 读 My Mind Reading Was Stolen: The Delicate Noble Consort Tiptoes Up and Kisses the Madman Into a Stupor 读心被抢：娇软贵妃踮脚亲懵疯批 Cherry Blossom Clouds樱云漫Ancient Romance333k WordsCompleted [System + Mind Reading + Pure Comedy + Absurd and Illogical + Devoted Couple + Not a Strong Female Lead] Su Niannian took the place of the transmigrated heroine and gained her 1,000-kilometer-range surveillance device and mind-reading ability. But then... because she took the heroine’s place the wrong way, the tyrannical king stole her mind-reading ability. From then on, the tyrannical king began snooping on his beloved consort Su Niannian’s thoughts. Scene One: Surveillance System: “Come on! To 31Reads8.2Score—Shelves
12. 12 全 Global Manhunt: The Western Hemisphere Conspiracy 全球追杀：西半球的阴谋 Little Dudu from Siping四平的小嘟嘟Urban331k WordsCompleted This book is a brain-burning read, with clever characters and no plot padding or superpowers. If you like simple, lightweight stories, please look elsewhere. A young man of mixed Chinese descent lives a quiet life in a small city. Then, out of nowhere, uninvited agents inexplicably take him away. Next, assassins from all over the world descend on him, and suddenly the peaceful little city is filled with gunfire and explosions. After barely escaping the first wave of pursuit, he's swept along on 62Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is guaranteed to be the most intellectually stimulating book on Tomato Book, bar none. Disagree? Let's argue. It's mind-bending from start to finish, with not a single wasted line, and no cheat codes that defy the laws of physics. It's all about genius intellect and survival against all odds. Both the male and female leads are exceptionally intelligent, and there's absolutely no saintly side to them. The plot is tight and there's no filler; if you miss a single sentence, you won't understand the rest.

13. 13 惹 Offending the Imperial Daughter 惹金枝 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted (Film and television rights have been sold. The physical book will be available for preorder on July 10 at 19:00.) Shi Buyu was born smiling. At that moment, lightning flashed and thunder roared, collapsing a row of outbuildings in the Shi family compound. Days of torrential rain brought devastating floods and countless victims. Rumors soon spread through the capital that she was a disaster star sent into the world. But she was as precocious as a demon, with a photographic memory, and learned bo 262.1kReads9.7Score30.8kShelves

    Reader note

    [My Two Favorite Political Intrigue Novels] 9.7 High-Scoring Ancient Romance Novels (Completed)! Mind-Blowing! High-IQ Novels! ① The female lead is intelligent and resourceful, possessing strategic vision, assisting the male lead in conquering the world. ② A novel where everyone's intelligence is on point! Their IQs will leave you speechless! It starts slowly but builds to a bang; initially, the protagonist follows a scripted path to change her fate, but later it becomes a pure battle of wits! You might think you're the one holding the pieces, but in the end, you're just a pawn yourself. Who is truly orchestrating this vast chessboard of the world…?

14. 14 满 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 124.4kReads9.7Score14.2kShelves
15. 15 请 Your Highness, Go to Your Death! 请皇兄，赴死！ Brew Little Wine煮小酒Historical1.1M WordsOngoing Zhou Che is reborn as the sixth prince of Great Xia, but his five elder brothers keep closing in on him. They want to strip me of my claim to the throne! They want to confiscate what little my family has left! They want to take the woman I love and kill me! If that’s how it is “If you, my brothers, can kill your own kin, why can’t I?” “If you can fight for the realm, why can’t I?” “You all think yourselves capable. What makes me any less so?!” Zhou Che rises with his sword drawn. “Your sixth bro 31.3kReads9.2Score2.5kShelves

    Reader note

    💥, Historical fiction, incredibly captivating! 🌈 The first book features the original protagonist, the Sixth Prince Che, from the Great Xia Dynasty. As the imperial edict stated: He was neither scholarly nor martial, inherently cowardly, possessing no redeeming qualities other than his good looks and large stature, plagued by various vices. The original protagonist was invited to a banquet at the Fifth Prince's house and got thoroughly drunk. But the claim that he disrespected his elder brother's fiancée, Zhen Shi, is absolutely untrue! The original protagonist was both cowardly and weak; even drunk, he would never dare to disrespect Zhen Shi. Clearly, this was a trap, a trap intended to kill the original protagonist! However, the mastermind overestimated the original protagonist's weakness… After drinking too much, he simply died, allowing the transmigrated Zhou Che to take over his body. 🌈 A historical comedy about political intrigue. The second book features a flood of memories. The Eighth Prince of the Great Yan Kingdom, an idiot? I transmigrated? Transmigrated into the body of an idiot! Damn it. Realizing his precarious situation, Xiao Wanping immediately made a decision: continue feigning madness and developing his power stealthily, otherwise he would inevitably become the target of everyone's wrath. With military power in hand, the world is mine! Yes, he must seize power, military power! Whether it's to the eastern or northern border! In short, he had to find a way to leave the capital, Xingyang City, without making a sound.

16. 16 摄 The Regent's Uncle's Little One Is Begging for Affection Again 摄政王皇叔家的崽崽又撒娇了 Ye Buhong叶不鸿Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Complete] In her previous life, Murujin devoted herself to the crown prince, only to have her position as empress taken away, her military seal confiscated, and a cup of poisoned wine sent to kill her in the Cold Palace. Three years later, Murujin is reborn. She swears to overthrow the emperor and plunge the kingdom into chaos! Word has it that the usually aloof Prince Regent Qi Junxian now has a willful little girl by his side, one who sweetly calls him "Uncle Emperor." "Your Highness! The you 18kReads9.4Score2.3kShelves

    Reader note

    1. What impressed me most about this book, besides the author's writing style, was the female protagonist's patriotism. I was moved to tears several times. Those people she once protected were all waiting for her return in another way. 2. What also left me with the deepest regret was the second male lead, Ji'an: for the female protagonist, he refrained from becoming a Buddha for a hundred years, the price being that she forgot him. "She forgot me." "I am willing to be your Bodhi tree." "The Dharma remains even without me. But without me, she will suffer greatly." "The Buddha doesn't want you to convert, the Buddha wants you to be happy." "Mu Rujiu." "Hmm?" "I'll spend my life fasting and chanting Buddhist scriptures, in exchange for you being mine in the next life." "If not, I'll still be a monk in my next life." But later, oh later… He told the peach blossoms, "Don't bloom anymore." The person he was waiting for would not return.

17. 17 这 This Prince Has Gone Mad. Why Would You Provoke Him? 这皇子都疯了，你惹他干嘛？ Before the Wind Rises风未起Historical4.0M WordsCompleted [No System + High-Stakes Scheming + Laying Low to Build Strength + Logical Plot + Brains and Brawn + Suspense + Ancient Espionage] His mother consort dies suddenly of an illness. His older brother dies mysteriously in battle. All his backers are gone!! His father distrusts him, and his other brothers all want him dead! Not a single court official is on his side? In that case, he has no choice but to carve out a path to survival from between the cracks! After transmigrating to another world, he b 62.3kReads8.8Score5.1kShelves
18. 18 皇 The Emperor's Gold Medal County Magistrate 皇家金牌县令 Noodle King Zai板面王仔Historical2.7M WordsCompleted [Farming + lighthearted fun + transmigration] Fang Zhengyi transmigrates to the Great Jing dynasty and becomes a county magistrate. After seven years of work, he has created his own earthly paradise. He’d planned to live out his days as a carefree little emperor. In the thirteenth year of the Jinghe era, the emperor of Great Jing travels incognito and accidentally wanders into Taoyuan County... The moment the emperor enters the county, he is astonished! The many strange and wondrous things leave 230.3kReads9.5Score28.7kShelves
19. 19 快 Quick Transmigration: The Host King Has Arrived 快穿宿主之王者降临 Miss Poison Rogue毒萝小姐姐Two Male Leads572k WordsCompleted PS: No melodrama. The male lead isn't a good person in the conventional sense, but he's not a bad person either. Some things require trade-offs, and he weighs the pros and cons. Although this is tagged as a two-male-lead story, not every world has a CP. If there is one, it's one-on-one, with the story focused on the top. If there isn't one, there isn't one. Worlds with a CP: One, Two, Five, Seven, and Nine. The rest have no CP. Note: This book focuses on the main plot. Even in worlds with a CP, 178Reads8.7Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Synopsis: The protagonist, Ye Chen, due to special circumstances (spoilers ahead, details omitted), travels through various small worlds with a system. The story primarily revolves around political intrigue, with romance as a secondary element. It's a plot-driven story with a touch of sweetness. However, the first world focuses on romance, and the protagonist's initial love story feels somewhat abrupt. Those who are sensitive to this can start reading from the second world onwards, as the subsequent worlds are mostly filled with high-IQ political maneuvering. 😳😳

20. 20 帝 The Empire's First Prince Consort 帝国第一驸马 Heavenly Fragrant Eyes天香瞳Historical4.4M WordsCompleted [New book release: The Rebellious Son Is Invincible, the final installment of the Empire Trilogy] Guan Ning transmigrates, hoping to live a carefree life of wine, women, and luxury as a young prince. Instead, he becomes a prince consort whose engagement has been broken off. Rumor has it that no dynasty can last more than 300 years. The Great Kang Dynasty is at that very threshold: a golden age is in turmoil, loyal ministers are being persecuted, and an age of chaos is about to begin. He will top 113.8kReads9.1Score10.6kShelves
21. 21 废 The Useless Prince: Why Are You Forcing Me to Become Emperor? 废物皇子：为何要逼我做皇帝？ The Wind of the 80s80年代的风Historical4.0M WordsCompleted He is the empire’s useless prince! But his own father, the emperor, wants him dead. The crown prince wants him dead. His brothers all want him dead. Even the most beautiful woman under heaven wants him dead! To survive, he trains an invincible army and builds a hidden paradise. He brings the Hundred Schools of Thought to heel, drawing capable ministers, mighty generals, and reclusive masters from every corner of the land to his side. All the beauties under heaven dream of becoming his bride. Ami 84.3kReads9.3Score8.5kShelves
22. 22 朕 I, Empress Hexi, Reborn and Done Saving the Ungrateful 朕，和熹女君，重生不扶白眼狼 Miss Xingci星辞小姐Ancient Romance326k WordsOngoing At fifteen, Deng Sui entered the palace. At twenty-two, she was made empress, and at twenty-five, she ruled as regent. For sixteen years, Deng Sui safeguarded the Han empire, only to be sent to her death by the young emperor she had personally supported. Her entire family was purged, and her loyal confidants died tragic deaths, full of resentment. Reborn, she returned to the year of the selection. In this life, Deng Sui seeks only to defy fate and change her destiny: Protect the emperor, who is 1.1kReads—Score112Shelves

    Reader note

    Find out more about Queen's Crown, you will not be disappointed if you have high IQ and power.

23. 23 长 The Grand Princess Was Banished to Her Fief, So I Became Empress 长公主被贬封地，我转身成女帝 Happy Little Crawler幸福的爬爬虫Ancient Romance279k WordsCompleted [Strong Female Lead + Revenge and Regret + Empress + No Romance + War for Supremacy in a Chaotic Era] Chu Ning transmigrates into the Great Chu Dynasty as a princess who has been confined to her fief. Carrying the grudge of her mother’s murder, Chu Ning unexpectedly awakens the strongest Empress System, and begins a fiery journey to become an empress who conquers the realm. With a decisive hand, she takes control of Changle Commandery, her fief, and builds a solid power base. Declaring herself Q 672Reads—Score102Shelves

    Reader note

    Both are good books.

24. 24 赶 You Banished Me to My Fief, So I Rebelled with the Prince of Beiliang 赶你去封地，你竟带着北凉王造反 Little Flying Pig from the Mountains山里小飞猪Historical3.1M WordsOngoing [Alternate World] [Feudal Prince] [Summoning] [Rapid Army Expansion] [Conquest] [Comedy] [Revenge] After transmigrating to the Great Yan Dynasty, Xiao Jing becomes the useless Third Prince in everyone's eyes. From the start, he is framed by a treacherous villain and exiled to the bitterly cold Qinzhou, where he is made Prince of Qin! Fortunately, Xiao Jing awakens his golden finger and immediately summons Huo Qubing and ten thousand elite Han cavalry! With swift, decisive action, he takes contro 92.2kReads8.0Score6.8kShelves
25. 25 大 Great Tang: A Million Private Soldiers, Li Er, Do You Regret It? 大唐：私兵百万，李二你后悔了吗 Happy Little Crawler幸福的爬爬虫Historical4.2M WordsOngoing [Feudal Prince] [System] [Comedy] [Conquest] After transmigrating to the Tang dynasty as Li Ke, the third son of Li Shimin, he is framed by Zhangsun Wuji and forced to take up his fief in Yizhou ahead of schedule. His status is awkward, he has no one to rely on, and he is nearly at the end of his rope. At the crucial moment, Li Ke awakens a System that uses fortune to summon civil officials and military generals to fight for him. Faced with the arrogance of the Crown Prince's faction, Li Ke summ 25.9kReads8.5Score1.8kShelves
26. 26 纨 The Pampered Life of a Spoiled Commandery Princess 纨绔郡主得宠日常 Zhao Pian赵骗Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Signed for publication. The print edition is expected to be available by the end of the year. No! This! Is! Not! A! Romance! No CP! No rebirth, no transmigration, a thoroughly evil heroine, a power-struggle story A truly wicked heroine, vying for power over the realm, genuinely unhinged, ruthless, and rotten to the core Questions that come up while reading can only be answered by reading on. The willful, overbearing young princess of the Prince of Zhenbei’s household takes a fancy to Pei Jinnian 51.1kReads9.4Score6.4kShelves

    Reader note

    Other popular political intrigue novels are not recommended.

27. 27 重 Reborn: The Legitimate Daughter's Plot for the Throne 重生之嫡女谋妃 Also Known as Light Boat又名轻舟Ancient Romance514k WordsCompleted [Reborn Daughter + Two Strong Leads + Political Intrigue + Family and Nation] Qin Xi, courtesy name Zhaozhao, is the legitimate daughter of Lord Qin, the sitting Minister of War in Shengjing. Everyone has heard of Qin Zhaozhao of the Qin family: a beauty of incomparable grace, dazzlingly brilliant. When the Northern Rong army marched on Shengjing, Qin Xi went to battle alongside her grandfather and turned the tide. After the war, the emperor bestowed on her the title of County Lady Yongjia, and 22Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Take a look at this group of powerful women embroiled in power struggles.

28. 28 灯 When the Lanterns Fade, the Calamity Ends 灯明劫尽 Rui Xuan睿暄Ancient Romance857k WordsOngoing [Two strong leads, brilliant strategists, devoted only to each other, revenge, dual identities, dual personalities, an alternate world not based on any historical dynasty, plenty of witty flirting] She is the eldest princess, rumored to be cherished by all, yet she witnessed her mother spend her life being manipulated by the man she loved. Gentle and composed on the surface, she excels at reading people and understands human nature. To stir up the court, she will stop at nothing. She will destro 1.9kReads9.3Score271Shelves

    Reader note

    Ancient Chinese political intrigue, two strong characters, high intelligence, well-written.

29. 29 守 On the Day of the Wake, My Sisters-in-Law Put Me on the Throne 守灵当天，我被众嫂嫂推上皇位 Kitchen God of the Wood Stove柴火灶王爷Historical716k WordsOngoing [Alternate Dynasty + Transmigration + War + Political Intrigue + Ensemble Cast + The Golden Finger Has Been Cut in Half] A high school boy named Tian Shu wakes up one morning in an ancient funeral hall. His widowed sisters-in-law swarm around him, showering him with care. In a feudal age of chaos, the powerful clans hold sway. The System is practically useless, and each sister-in-law has her own agenda. Born into a poor family, can he defy fate, change his destiny, command a vast empire, and mak 4.5kReads8.8Score165Shelves
30. 30 何 Why Not Sail Together 何不同舟渡 Xian Yuke羡鱼珂Ancient Romance483k WordsCompleted "The print edition under the same title is available to buy online" [No golden finger, no transmigration, no rebirth. A pure historical romance about family and country, with high-IQ espionage and political intrigue] [A double agent undercover + a petty thief who grows: a lone wolf plays a game of raising a rabbit, gives her fangs, then insists they run away together] In a chaotic age, she is a thief worth less than a blade of grass, willing to do whatever it takes to stay alive. She steals ten 143kReads9.7Score106.8kShelves
31. 31 逢 The Lantern-Bearing Chronicles 逢灯纪 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance982k WordsCompleted (Signed for publication, with screen adaptation rights sold) You're the daughter of a marquis. You want to take your mother's dowry and remains with you? Done. I'll take the dowry and remains, and bring you your mother's divorce papers as well as your own severance papers cutting ties with your family. You were declared dead and became an invisible person behind your brothers. You want to live like a normal person again? Done. I'll restore your name and identity, and make sure you receive the en 87.8kReads9.3Score12.8kShelves
32. 32 逆 Against the Meridians: Liar, Stop! 逆经：骗子住手 Ren Fanwuyin任梵无音Eastern Fantasy1.3M WordsCompleted [Original novel for the animated series This Taoist Is Not Quite Right] Life is unpredictable. The fit thrive under Heaven's law, Those skilled in force become generals, those skilled in strategy become kings. Born into the lowest of professions, he refuses to live like a nobody, He waves the yin-yang banner and sees through the Six Lines of Divination. Watch him play at being a spirit medium, watch him swindle and deceive, Watch him make ruthless decisions, watch him rise like a hidden dragon f 44kReads9.4Score4.7kShelves

    Reader note

    A real power struggle, with the pacing of an American TV series, you won't be able to stop watching! 🧐

33. 33 谋 Scheming for the World, Conquering the Realm: The Divine Doctor Empress's Ruthless Charm 谋天下！覆山河！神医帝凰狠绝色 A Poisonous Strawberry一颗毒草莓Ancient Romance294k WordsOngoing [Peerless Physician and Warrior: A Power Couple, Political Intrigue, and a Satisfying Tale of Country and Family] [Wise Empress vs. God of War Regent] In her previous life, Song Zhiyu was a compassionate physician. She cured the Crown Prince of a deadly poison, worried over the people's hardships, and offered up the wealth of the realm. Yet once the Crown Prince was out of danger and secure in his high position, he grew suspicious of her for refusing to marry him. Like a rabbit caught after the —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Although there is a male lead, the female lead takes revenge and gets her place on the table through her own efforts. It's not about palace intrigue or power struggles, but about scheming and ruling the world.

34. 34 谁 Who Wants Fake Affection? I Just Want to Rule the Mountain 谁要虚情假意？我只想占山为王 Deng You Er邓又尔Ancient Romance249k WordsCompleted Lou Xiang has known since childhood that she is the daughter of bandits, destined to follow in her father's footsteps and rule Cangming Mountain. One day, after taking a new actor into her favor, three men block the mountain gate. With no choice, she hides at Jingyou Temple and seeks out her "childhood sweetheart." Little does she know that this escape will take her far from Cangming Mountain for a very, very long time... Her adoptive father dies in battle, so she goes to the capital in his p 122Reads—Score—Shelves
35. 35 将 The General’s Princess 将军公主 Xiao Shihuo潇十火Ancient Romance472k WordsCompleted An ensemble cast in a classical fantasy setting + court intrigue + war + adventure + two equally strong leads + both heartbreaking and sweet A tragedy seventeen years ago implicated countless people. General Ji Bei was killed in battle, and neither the former crown prince, Chu Mo, nor anyone in the Ji family survived! Years later, the late emperor Chu Junlin passed away, and Crown Prince Chu Yi ascended the throne. He renamed the kingdom Yong'an and granted a general amnesty. Peace reigned throu 161Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Check out this book! It's a classic ensemble drama with a grand scope, featuring numerous war descriptions, fight scenes, and adventures. The characters are vividly portrayed and each has their own significance. The plot is the main focus, with romance playing a secondary role. Don't miss it!

36. 36 以 Scheming for the Throne 以权谋君 You Sui有绥Two Male Leads212k WordsCompleted When Wei Chun was eighteen, he wandered by mistake into Zhaohe Hall, the residence of Si Yan, the only prince of Emperor Si Liang. There he met the young, innocent Si Yan and fell in love at first sight. He never managed to leave that moment behind. In the years that followed, Wei Chun, who wielded great power and commanded a mighty army, granted Si Yan everything he wanted and helped him do whatever he wished. Yet though Wei Chun made his feelings so clear, Si Yan never once spared him a glance 995Reads9.3Score127Shelves

    Reader note

    Absolutely amazing! 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 brutal. ② It features two male leads. The emperor orchestrates a grand scheme to be with his beloved. This kind of 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.

37. 37 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

    A story set in ancient China, centered on political intrigue, and featuring characters with high intelligence.

38. 38 穿 I Became the Wanli Emperor's Crown Prince, So Whoever Wants the Red Pill Can Eat It 穿成万历太子，这红丸谁爱吃谁吃 Resting Cloud休息的云Historical2.3M WordsOngoing Reborn as an emperor who has only been on the throne for a month, he faces the Palace Coup and the Red Pill Incident, with treacherous officials within and bandits without. From crown prince to emperor, he plans every step. Great Ming, are you ready to welcome your Emperor Taichang? Nurhaci, are you ready to be put through the wringer? 7.9kReads7.2Score583Shelves

    Reader note

    No system, but not mindless, slow-paced, not a wish-fulfillment novel.

39. 39 隆 The Longqing Restoration 隆庆中兴 Resting Cloud休息的云Historical5.4M WordsCompleted I transmigrate as Zhu Zaihou, but I won’t be a little sycophant. For the sake of tribute and trade, I dare to wage righteous war. I open the passes and command the four seas, my proclamations reaching the eight directions. The people receive sweet rain, and the dynasty flourishes forever. Alas! I would rather be a man of the Longqing era than aspire to rule like Yao and Shun. 9.2kReads8.5Score804Shelves
40. 40 拯 Saving the Realm: The Great Song’s Prince Who Stood Shoulder to Shoulder with the Emperor 拯救山河之大宋并肩王 Hermit of the Cave Peak洞顶山人Historical168k WordsOngoing [Late Song transmigration | Rise from humble beginnings | Infrastructure and farming | Raising an army to contend for supremacy] A modern engineering prodigy transmigrates into the second year of Xuanhe and becomes He Ku, an orphan from Jiezhou. He begs for a living with his eight-year-old sister, He Qiong. Crushing taxes burden the people, officials run rampant, and commoners wander homeless and starve to death by the roadside. The Zhao court cares only for pleasure, letting the Liao and Jin st —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A wildly popular political intrigue novel.

41. 41 山 A Strategy for Realm and Rivers: Chronicles of Court and Jianghu 山河策【庙堂江湖录】 Hermit of the Cave Peak洞顶山人Historical309k WordsCompleted [Peerless Heir] [Jianghu and Court] [Blood-and-Iron Warfare] [Political Intrigue and Wits] [Alternate History] [Chivalry and Tenderness] [No Transmigration] [No Golden Finger] The Dingbian Prince’s household is wiped out. Ten-year-old heir Ling Canglan narrowly escapes. After years in hiding, he makes his name in a single stroke. He studies both literature and martial arts, and grows into a man of great talent. Faced with the enmity of his country and the hatred of his family, he joins the army 2.2kReads7.0Score165Shelves
42. 42 墨 Ink-Stained White Lapels 墨染素襟 Daoist Yifeng一风道长Historical305k WordsOngoing [Alternate Ancient Setting] [Forced into Government Service] [Political Intrigue and Revenge] [Corrupted by the Desire for Power] [Multiple Supporting Character Subplots] [Traditional Slow Burn] One night, disaster strikes. Blood stains the gates of a noble household, and the entire Yang family is brought down. The only son, Yang Su, narrowly escapes death. The pampered young man he once was sheds his innocence overnight, burying an ocean of hatred deep in his heart. He has no interest in fame o 12Reads—Score—Shelves
43. 43 谁 Who Says an Emperor and Empress Can’t Truly Love Each Other? 谁说帝后不能有真情 Jingzhou Chronicles景州记Ancient Romance749k WordsCompleted Pei Shu seems to have been born under a lucky star. Born into a prominent family, she grew up cherished by loving parents and surrounded by every luxury. Her only setback was when her fiancé fell for someone else and broke off their engagement. Before the people of the capital could even laugh at her, an imperial decree arrived at the Pei residence, and Pei Shu became the empress. From then on, everything went smoothly: her son was named crown prince, later became emperor, and Pei Shu naturally 12.1kReads9.1Score1.2kShelves
44. 44 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 8.4kReads9.5Score1.3kShelves

    Reader note

    The first book features a protagonist who is both clear-headed and highly intelligent; the author's writing is superb and it's a great read. I highly recommend the second book, where the protagonists are evenly matched in the end. The third book is more of a political intrigue story.

45. 45 侯 The Marquis's Manor's New Transfer Student 侯府插班生 Surging Tide澜潮Ancient Romance474k WordsCompleted The scoundrel Marquis, my father, wants to seize my maternal family’s estate and leave them with no heirs? Don’t be in such a hurry. The emperor and the ruler of the enemy state both have the same idea, so who do you think you are? I’m in no rush. I’ll let you all fight it out first… 34Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Your scumbag father from the Marquis's mansion wants to devour my maternal family's extinct line? Hold on, both the current emperor and the ruler of an enemy state have this intention. So, who do you think you are? I'm not in a hurry either; let's watch you two fight it out first…

46. 46 小 The Little Palace Maid's Thoughts Were Read 小宫女被读心了 Jiang Xiaoshi江小十Ancient Romance254k WordsCompleted After transmigrating into the palace as a maid, Qin Jianjian works diligently, flatters those above her, and deceives those below her. In the end, she becomes the top-ranked maid serving the Empress Dowager. She has undoubtedly reached the pinnacle of her profession. Money she’s openly entitled to, along with money she shouldn’t have, keeps flowing into Qin Jianjian’s pockets. Delighted, she just has to wait until she’s old enough to leave the palace and retire early. Who could have guessed the 15.3kReads9.4Score1.2kShelves
47. 47 虐 Tortured into a Locked Love 虐锁清欢 Already Exists 11已存在的11Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted Leng Qinghuan was forced to marry the notorious Prince Yan. But she wasn't some naive, helpless girl. Crying and accepting her fate just wasn't in Leng Qinghuan's nature. She seized every opportunity, with the courage to burn her bridges, fought scheming women, fought the empress, opened shops, learned to solve cases, and more... Through her words and deeds, she proved herself. The woman Prince Yan had once sneered at ultimately became someone far beyond his reach! 305Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    1. Intrigue and power struggles: An imperial decree shatters Qinghuan's childhood romance with the Crown Prince, forcing her to marry the ruthless Prince He, Ning Zechen. The eavesdropping under the pear blossom tree, the maliciously spread rumors, and the dissatisfaction with the arranged marriage all become Qinghuan's sins! The humiliation of her wedding night, the touch of blood—all only serve to spur Qinghuan to live! For the sake of the Leng family, she must survive! A series of bizarre murders draw her into the case, and the deaths of bystanders fill Qinghuan with guilt... Through this shared experience, Ning Zechen rediscovers...

48. 48 零 Zero-Degree Showdown: Operation Blue Arrow 零度交锋：蓝捷行动 Windless Rainy Night雨夜无风Mystery2.3M WordsOngoing [Mystery and Suspense] [Espionage] [Crime Investigation] [Modern Urban] [Genius] [Strong Female Lead] [National Security] Twenty-three years ago, a separation tore the lives of twin sisters apart. The younger sister was trained by an overseas spy organization to become an elite agent. Sent back to China, she is ordered to assassinate her own sister, take her place, infiltrate Lanjie Communications, and steal the core secret, “Lanjie 9.” Caught between her mission and her organization's orders on 10.5kReads9.1Score1.3kShelves

    Reader note

    The atmosphere of modern spy war is full! In line with the current situation of technological counter-espionage, the plot is realistic and the game of transnational secret theft and counterattack will make people's hearts beat faster and be more enjoyable to watch.

49. 49 温 Her Tenderness Was All an Act, and Now the Yandere Prince Won't Let Her Go 温柔全是假的，她被病娇王爷缠疯 Nighttime, Singing in Comfort夜亦舒歌Ancient Romance289k WordsCompleted [My lovesick husband is crazy and wicked! He dresses as a woman and steals me away at swordpoint!] “Marry my brother. He’s in a vegetative state, so he won’t touch you. Once that ugly brute gives up on marrying you, elope with the man you love and go far away!” To avoid an unwanted marriage, Song Qianxi’s best friend, a transmigrator and a commandery princess, came up with a plan: marry the unconscious Prince of Jiangnan, who had been comatose for years. She only meant to lie low until the dange 68Reads—Score—Shelves
50. 50 娘 My Wife Is Already the Richest, So Why Take the Top Scholar Exam? 娘子都首富了，还要考状元？ My Fans Are So Handsome我的粉丝超帅的Historical2.5M WordsOngoing [Whose husband is this? Whoever grabs him gets to keep him!] Xu Ye accidentally transmigrates while rescuing someone from drowning. When he reaches shore, he realizes he's holding the daughter of the richest man in the realm. He thinks he's landed himself a wealthy wife and can lie flat, living off her money, but then he sees his fiancée being schemed against... “Copy books to pay off your debts? Why not copy Battle Through the Heavens!” “The teahouse is empty? Let's get on the BBS!” The imp 61.4kReads8.2Score7.1kShelves

    Reader note

    Super funny article

Other lists with The Poor Scholar's Rise