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

1. 51 太 The Crown Prince Is a Treasure Trove, but She Flirts and Runs 太子浑身是宝，但她撩完就跑 Nine Strokes, Then a Horizontal Line九笔横才Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Clever revenge + ensemble court drama + male lead fakes his death and reveals his identity, then goes mad + heroine is his one true love] [Power couple comedy | Strategic mind games | All the right ingredients | Fictional setting] Axiang, a huntress, bought herself a live-in husband. He was handsome, with a fine figure and a noble, radiant air, like an immortal crane descended from the heavens, or a jade-faced gentleman from a storybook. But he had no idea how to show affection. When she offer 1.5kReads9.2Score178Shelves

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   This book. The author writes exceptionally well about the complexity and diversity of human nature. It's not mindless; it's very logical.

2. 52 世 Never More Than Three Times 世不过三 Yu Duoyou余多柚Ancient Romance1.6M WordsCompleted [Strong female lead + reborn + three lifetimes + little poison doctor + no golden finger + political intrigue + satisfying read + sweet romance + reverse raising + romance + ensemble cast + scheming + a little angst] Xia Shi has been reborn three times, and each life has been more exciting than the last! Now in her third life, she’s an invincible little poison master. Who would dare let her suffer even the slightest grievance? In her first life, she lived for herself and married a foolish empero 2.3kReads9.5Score451Shelves

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   The female lead in this book maintains her intelligence throughout the entire story and doesn't become weaker because of the male lead; she remains incredibly strong in combat.

3. 53 大 Lin Chuan’an of the Dali Temple 大理寺的林初安 Wind-Borne Lotus风信莲华Mystery1.2M WordsCompleted Historical romance + transmigration + Crime Solving + political intrigue + strong female lead + woman disguised as a man + martial world + everyday life + lighthearted tone + butterfly effect. Lin Chuan'an, a modern police detective, transmigrates to ancient times and becomes a low-ranking clerk with a secret. Drawing on her modern values and experience, she gradually plunges into the whirlpool of the capital, solves one strange case after another, secures her place at court, wields power across 131Reads6.5Score—Shelves

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   The new chapter, Palace Banquet, is the best female-oriented palace banquet ensemble drama I've ever seen. Moreover, it's not about romance, slander, poisoning, or madness; instead, it gathers all the foreshadowing from the previous 300 chapters. I must say, the author is amazing!

4. 54 退 After Breaking Off the Engagement, the Foolish Princess Marries the Ninth Lord with Her Four Maids 退婚后，傻妃携四大丫鬟嫁九千岁 Clingy Little Tomato粘人小番茄Ancient Romance1.8M WordsOngoing [Palace Intrigue + Household Intrigue + Historical Romance + Princess Consort + Legitimate Daughter + Medical Skills + Two Powerful Leads + Cunning + Playing the Fool + Reborn + Fiercely Protective + Political Scheming] 99% of the comments are positive! Read with confidence! Su Qian, once the leader of a special forces unit in the apocalypse, died unexpectedly while carrying out a mission. With her portable medical space, she transmigrated to ancient times and into the residence of a great gener 22.8kReads8.1Score3.8kShelves

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   The male and female leads team up: a pure battle of wits where misunderstandings are avoided, only tacit understandings of mutual exploitation prevail. The female lead's cheat ability is captivating: her medical space grants her modern-day superpowers, allowing her to heal and save lives while simultaneously committing murder and robbery. 🤔

5. 55 李 Li Si Reborn: Flaying Zhao Gao Alive and Securing 800 Years for the Qin Dynasty 李斯重生，活剐赵高，秦祚八百年 Frost-Mirror Wanderer霜鉴客Historical489k WordsCompleted Li Si and Ying Zheng, two great heroes, are reborn with the bloodline of the Human Emperor. They command the destiny of humanity, and the human race finally stands tall. From this day forward, humanity shall reign supreme beneath the heavens! Li Si is reborn in Qin and carefully helps Ying Zheng unify the six states and restore order to the realm, while tearing Zhao Gao apart with his own hands to avenge his past-life grudge! The two accidentally uncover a world-shaking secret: Ji Fa and Jiang Z 32Reads—Score—Shelves

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   I personally think it's very good; at least it's not the same old formula.

6. 56 伏 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. 14kReads8.3Score890Shelves

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   The intellectual sparring never ends, the political situation in the court changes in an instant, and the whole process is mind-bending and immersive.

7. 57 新 New Year Begins 新正引 Lu Yanyan露颜颜Ancient Romance230k WordsCompleted [Strong female lead + black lotus + political intrigue + tragic love] One night, Shen Ciqiu and Du Jinheng went together to the military camp where the Marquis of Zhenbei had been stationed for years and stole the Tiger Wing Token, the military tally that could command 100,000 Northwestern troops. As a result, the entire Xie clan was sentenced to death. Out of consideration for past ties, the emperor spared the heir's life. At the same time, Shen Ciqiu discovered that the Tiger Wing Token wa 25Reads—Score—Shelves

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   Ancient Chinese romance novels feature powerful female protagonists who are not saintly figures; strategists risk their lives for the cause, and patriots pledge their loyalty with blood. 💕💕💕

8. 58 临 The Hidden Actor of Lin'an 临安戏隐 The Mysterious Qiuchi神秘的秋迟Historical447k WordsCompleted [Me, a spoiled good-for-nothing: it’s all an act] After being reborn as the son of a Southern Song military officer, Zhang Ziyan decides to lie flat and make trouble for his father as a career. He raises fighting cocks, walks his dogs, and spends money like water. Lin’an City knows him as a complete waste of space. Everyone laughs at him: “Other than having a good father, what can you even do?” But they don’t know that... The imperial wine Jade Pot Spring is his creation, and its sky-high profit 173Reads7.3Score—Shelves

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   🔥Southern Song Dynasty🔥Political Intrigue🔥Playboy Romance🔥Highly recommended by a 15-year veteran reader. Not intellectually sapped, well-written, a heartwarming team—truly a great read. [Already hooked!]

9. 59 能 If You Can Be Emperor, Why Be a Princess? 能做皇帝，谁做公主？ Wei Ziyan魏子焉Ancient Romance154k WordsCompleted [Devoted daughter + saving the nation + political intrigue · Female lead has no romance, but does have admirers] [Max combat power + unconventional mind-reading + browser for the current world] Also known as "Saving the Realm" and "Seizing Power Through Reform!" What? I, Gu Nianyu, protect the realm and defend its borders, and someone still wants to stop me from ascending the throne? You must not know that I’m the one who appointed the crown prince! “I, Gu Nianyu, am the late emperor’s elde 71Reads—Score—Shelves

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   The female lead was truly underestimated by everyone, who thought that as a woman, she could only assist others step by step in their schemes to become empress.

10. 60 红 Secret Records Behind the Red Walls: A Complete History of China's Unofficial Past, Unabridged 红墙秘录：中国野史大全（无删节完整版） Xu Xiaotian许啸天Historical2.7M WordsCompleted This complete collection is like a secret key unlocking the hidden chambers of China's imperial past, guiding readers into shadowy corners that official histories leave shrouded in secrecy. From the ancient legends of Unofficial History of the Xia and Shang to the imperial passions and court intrigues of The History of the Imperial Harem in the Song Dynasty, The History of the Imperial Harem in the Ming Dynasty, and Unofficial History of the Yuan Dynasty; from the extravagant excesses of The Ero 1.6kReads9.3Score256Shelves

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    Pure historical political intrigue novel

11. 61 隋 The Romance of the Sui and Tang Dynasties: Complete, Edited Edition 隋唐演义-精编完整版 Chu Renhuo褚人获Historical617k WordsCompleted An epic tale of heroes rising amid chaos. Qin Qiong sells his horse, revealing a hero at the end of his rope; Cheng Yaojin robs the imperial tribute convoy, showing off his street smarts; and Li Shimin's Xuanwu Gate Incident reshapes the course of history. Blending the official historical record with folk storytelling, it weaves a legendary tale steeped in history and the spirit of the jianghu. 757Reads9.6Score—Shelves
12. 62 中 Party Struggles Throughout Chinese History 中国历代党争 Wang Tongling王桐龄Historical151k WordsCompleted Chinese Factional Struggles Through the Ages is a history of power struggles between factions, between factions and imperial authority, and between individuals. Using strategy as its thread and history as its fabric, it recounts a host of tangled stories. Covering three thousand years of factional strife, from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods through the Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing dynasties, the book details major events, rises and falls, triumphs and humiliations, and 302Reads7.7Score100Shelves
13. 63 司 Sima the Old Rogue 司马老贼 Tu Xuan土玄Historical895k WordsCompleted He is the gravedigger of Cao Wei and the founder of Western Jin. He is the “old rogue Sima,” and the last winner of the Three Kingdoms. Centered on Sima Yi, this novel unfolds a sweeping panorama of the late Han and Three Kingdoms era. Witness how he treads carefully under the suspicion of three generations of powerful rulers: Cao Cao, Cao Pi, and Cao Rui; how he and Zhuge Liang wage an ultimate contest of will and national strength at Mount Qi and the Wei River; and how, in his twilight years, 463Reads9.3Score—Shelves

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    The character development is exemplary. The portrayal of the protagonist, Sima Yi, is exceptionally successful. His transformation from a young man in Hanoi to the "Old Traitor of Luoshui" is fully depicted, his complexity, contradictions, and tragedy leaping off the page. His scheming, forbearance, ruthlessness, and the lingering inner turmoil (such as his feelings towards Qiu He, Jiang Ji, and Zhang Chunhua) create immense tension, making this character both awe-inspiring and tragic. The ensemble cast is vibrant: Cao Cao's cunning, Zhuge Liang's tragic heroism, Cao Pi's melancholy, Cao Mao's decisiveness, Jiang Wei's unwavering loyalty, Zhong Hui's arrogance, Deng Ai's composure, even Jiang Ji's grief and indignation, Xiahou Xuan's serenity… numerous historical figures are all distinct, each with their own spiritual core and arc of fate, collectively forming a magnificent panorama of the era.

14. 64 重 Reborn as a Concubine in the Su Household 重生之我在苏府当小妾 Shangguan Loves to Drink Water上官爱喝水Ancient Romance377k WordsCompleted Nontraditional rebirth + women's self-rescue + psychological healing + original poetry + metafiction Don't let the title fool you. The original title was Dawn's Clear Light. Rebirth is the ultimate act of self-rescue. A profound story that is both heartbreaking and healing. Zheng Ming awoke after transmigrating, only to become the concubine of a powerful minister. She navigated the storms of political rivalries and stirred the winds of change across the realm, believing she was carefully plan 228Reads8.8Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I recommend a little-known new book whose title doesn't do it justice: *Rebirth: I Became a Concubine in the Su Family*. Don't let the somewhat clichéd title fool you; it's a genuine female-oriented transmigration drama. The author's writing is skillful, logically rigorous, and grand in scope, far from the typical domestic power struggles. The story is imbued with historical weight and a sense of oppression, and the heroine's struggles and perseverance amidst the torrent of history are exceptionally realistic and moving. The portrayal of her patriotism is particularly outstanding.

15. 65 冷 Where Does the Cold Wind Go? 冷风归何处 Already Exists 11已存在的11Modern Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Leng Luoluo should never have been born. She came into the world only because the eldest daughter of the Leng family, Leng Baozhu, needed a bone marrow match to save her life. With Old Master Leng's approval, the live-in son-in-law Bai Zuhui fathered a child with an ugly country woman, and that child, Leng Luoluo, was neglected by everyone. For eighteen years, she and the Leng family's mute maid, Auntie Wu, depended on each other for survival! A twist of fate led Old Master Leng to discover that 71Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Intelligent and resourceful, Leng Luoluo shouldn't have been born. However, because the eldest daughter of the Leng family, Leng Baozhu, needed a bone marrow match to save her life, her husband, Bai Zuhui, with the approval of the Leng family patriarch, fathered the neglected Leng Luoluo with an ugly country woman. For eighteen years, Leng Luoluo and the Leng family's mute maid, Wu Ma, have relied on each other for survival. Fate's occasional cruel jokes lead the Leng family patriarch to discover that Leng Luoluo has a complex relationship with Jiangcheng's richest man, Cheng Fenghe, and also maintains close ties with Cheng Fenghe's brother. He senses her potential for exploitation, while Bai Zuhui, in order to seize power within the Leng family, finds a lover for his wife, uses psychological manipulation on Leng Luoluo, and takes her to nightclubs to learn from women… Even Cheng Fenghe's arch-rival, the Ma family, sets their sights on Leng Luoluo for a real estate project! Cheng Fenghe discovers Leng Luoluo's "ambition" and "scheme." To prevent his younger brother from contacting Leng Luoluo, he orchestrated for Leng Luoluo to sign a contract of servitude... The gears of fate have already turned; where will the ending lead? It's up to you to decide! The woman beside you—but when all that is beautiful is not cherished, why wait?

16. 66 宠 He Spoiled His Concubine and Neglected His Wife. Reborn, I Broke Off My Engagement to the Scumbag and Married the Prince 宠妾灭妻，重生我退婚渣男嫁王爷 Zhi Zhi之知Ancient Romance640k WordsCompleted The physical book is available on all major platforms. Formerly titled Riding the Phoenix. [Reborn + Powerful Female Lead and Male Lead + Nation and World + Political Schemes] Before the age of seventeen, Shen Yu was the legitimate daughter of a military family who could wield a blade and charge into battle. After seventeen, she became the frail wife of Jiang Manor's Vice Minister Jiang. Her father and brothers died in battle, and the entire Shen family was honored for their loyalty. Bearing 90.8kReads9.5Score12.4kShelves
17. 67 朕 I Am Hongli, Building a Golden Age for the Qing Dynasty 朕是弘历打造大清盛世 Third Aunt from the Farm农家三姑Historical1.4M WordsOngoing [Political Intrigue + Harem Rivalries + Factional Strife + Romance + Emperor] Hongli ascended the throne at twenty-five and ruled for sixty years, making him the longest-reigning and longest-lived emperor in history. He governed with diligence, excelling in both civil and military affairs, and led the Qing to the height of its golden age. Yet factional strife raged through the court, conflicts in the deep palace never ceased, and danger lurked behind the splendor. In the end, the golden age ga 15.7kReads8.3Score432Shelves

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    This historical novel is super good!

18. 68 慈 Empress Dowager Cixi and Her Three Favored Eunuchs 慈禧皇后与她的三个宠爱太监 Farmer Third Young Master农家三少Historical3.7M WordsCompleted [Eunuchs + Palace Secrets + Empress Dowager Cixi + Court Intrigue] From the time Empress Dowager Cixi entered the palace to the day she ruled from behind the curtain, she shared an unusual relationship with three eunuchs: An Dehai, Li Lianying, and Xiao Dezhang. They were like master and servants, like friends, and more than anything, like old companions. She doted on the three eunuchs, who relied on her favor to do as they pleased, throw their weight around, and take part in court affairs. This 52kReads9.0Score3.2kShelves
19. 69 与 Playing Chess with You: The Phoenix's Power 与君奕：凰权 Jiang Tanluoyue江潭落月Ancient Romance369k WordsCompleted (The rating has only just opened and will rise later) “Political intrigue + evenly matched leads + marriage before love + traditional war for supremacy in a chaotic age + ensemble cast + powerful female lead + nation and family” In these chaotic times, even a monarch can hardly hope for a lifetime of peace. Crowned heir to the throne at six, named crown prince at eight, and enthroned at twelve, Yan Xi was the “future savior of the Yan Kingdom” foretold by an astrologer, blessed with the Purple 211Reads8.0Score—Shelves

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    A political intrigue novel featuring two powerful characters, all with high intelligence, a captivating plot, and excellent writing.

20. 70 宁 Ning Yan: When Women Rule the Roost 宁兖，牝鸡司晨 Books Bring True Wealth有书真富贵Historical167k WordsOngoing [Ensemble political intrigue + entrusted heir + factional strife + expansion of the realm + redressing an old injustice] [Wronged powerful minister male lead x emperor female lead disguised as a man] Also known as "After I Blundered into the Imperial Family, I Discovered I Was the Imperial Family" On a winter night in the seventh year of Chengxu, Emperor Zhao Ning Fu suddenly went mad. Wearing the robes of his favorite consort, Yan, he climbed the bell tower and rang the funeral bell before fall 173Reads—Score104Shelves

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    A group portrait of power struggles, where protagonists and supporting characters meet and are then swept away by the tides of history; no time travel and no idiotic supporting characters.

21. 71 为 A Career in Public Service 为民官路 At Ease and Unrestrained安心无忌Urban1.8M WordsOngoing [A gritty, realistic tale of ambition and struggle in the government ranks] In 1990, top student Zhen Weimin offends the wrong people and gets kicked down to a poor rural township. Everyone thinks his life is over. But he is determined to make flowers bloom among the thorns. He breaks through obstacles with his knowledge and grounds himself in his conscience, with every step in sync with the pulse of the times. Starting in the township, he moves forward one step at a time. This is a true chronic 26.9kReads9.2Score2.8kShelves

    Reader note

    A witty and realistic novel about officialdom, incredibly immersive!

22. 72 开 A Convict from the Start? He Coughs, and the Entire Court Trembles 开局罪奴？他一咳嗽，朝堂抖三抖 Lord Cai the Sixth, Who Loves Longjiang Pig Trotters爱吃隆江猪脚的蔡六爷Historical320k WordsOngoing [Transmigration into a Modern Criminal Investigation Story + Political Scheming and Detective Work + Comeback and Face-Slapping + Overwhelming Intelligence + Play the Pig to Eat the Tiger + Strong Allies Joining Forces + Author with Years of Experience Completing Long Novels] I transmigrated into the body of a prince's grandson. The good news: I’m the eldest legitimate grandson, born to a noble station! The bad news: My father was wrongfully executed, I’m trapped in a camp for criminal slaves, a —Reads8.6Score—Shelves

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    A ruthless novel that doesn't rely on clichés! The protagonist's initial situation as a sinful slave is quite frustrating, but the oppressive feeling that even the emperor has to sit up straight when the protagonist coughs completely wipes away any boredom from a reading slump.

23. 73 怀 Carrying a Jade in the Night 怀璧夜行 Shi Jin是今Ancient Romance306k WordsCompleted [Mystery + Jianghu feuds + bickering couple] A hilarious new historical mystery romance set in the jianghu, from a hugely popular author! A peerless master who just wants to lie flat and count his money VS a scheming disguise expert who plays the loyal underling. At first, he looked at her like she was a cheeky little monkey: clever, lively, and amusing. Then he realized he was the one being played. The longest road they traveled together was the road to solving cases, and the road paved with ea 3.3kReads9.4Score517Shelves
24. 74 表 The Young Lady Is Newly Widowed, and the Rugged General Covets Her Day and Night 表小姐新寡，糙汉将军日日觊觎 Ye Zichi叶子迟Ancient Romance302k WordsCompleted [Mutual devotion + Delicate young lady + Hiding strength behind a weak facade + Rugged man] Jiang Ruotang is a cousin of the Marquis of Zhongyi’s household, newly widowed. She is delicate and soft, with skin like jade. Seeking protection, she travels a great distance from Yangzhou to the capital, leaving her dowry in the care of the Marquis of Zhongyi’s household. But the Jiang family’s collateral branch keeps pressing her, and every morning Jiang Ruotang wakes up thinking about finding a husban 2.9kReads8.0Score329Shelves
25. 75 公 The Young Master Is a Man of Leisure (Two-Volume Set) 公子本闲人(全二册) Zhu Li朱离Martial Arts395k WordsCompleted Cui Ning, a spoiled young master who has grown used to an idle life, has been feeling rather anxious lately. His older brother has gone mad, his powerful patron has fallen, and the burden of the family business has suddenly landed on his shoulders. The political situation is in constant flux, and just then he meets a strange young woman who claims to be an expert in divination, the Five Elements, and the Eight Trigrams. The first time they meet, she's an elusive fortune-teller whose morality is 905Reads9.2Score207Shelves
26. 76 冬 Bound by Love at the Winter Solstice 冬至缚情 Snow Sheng Winter Solstice雪笙冬至Ancient Romance270k WordsCompleted The eldest legitimate daughter of the Marquis of Dingbei marries into Prince Chen’s household by imperial decree. On their wedding night, her husband abandons her for the woman he loves. A scheming white lotus puts on an act at every turn and provokes her. In the capital, everyone plots and schemes, and intrigue is everywhere, whether hidden or open. But what does any of it have to do with her? She doesn’t love Prince Chen, nor does she love this prosperous, sordid capital. All she wants is to r 51.3kReads9.1Score2.2kShelves
27. 77 青 My Childhood Sweetheart Is Hard to Coax, but My Boyfriend Spoils Me Every Day 青梅难哄，竹马折腰日日宠 Fragrant Wood Terrace木香台Ancient Romance281k WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + slow and steady love + early Tang setting] As soon as Yu Nianqiu finishes her mourning period, the Ji family comes to break off the engagement. Yu Nianqiu turns away and bursts out laughing. That means I don't have to get married! Unfortunately, the emperor issues an edict requiring her to marry, so she has no choice but to recruit an honest, easy-to-manage live-in husband. As soon as the news gets out, talented young men come flocking. The scholar: “I am gentle 1kReads9.0Score184Shelves
28. 78 大 Ming's God of War, Zhu Di 大明战神朱棣 Shu Yao Jiu舒窈纠Historical472k WordsCompleted Why do we love reading about him? Because he lived the way we wish we could: if you don’t like it, fight! If you lose, own it! If you win, don’t brag. He feigned madness, played the fool, and even ate pig feed in a pigsty. Then he fought his way from Beiping to Nanjing and seized the dragon throne with his own hands. Zhu Di, the fourth son of Zhu Yuanzhang, was twenty when he was sent to govern Beiping. No one had any faith in this “Fourth Son.” His imperial father suspected him, his nephew trie 19kReads8.3Score1.4kShelves

    Reader note

    The plot is tight and suspenseful, the logic is rigorous and clear, and it vividly portrays Zhu Di, a war god who is flesh and blood, responsible and soulful!

29. 79 重 Reborn in the World of The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 重生笑傲江湖世界 Author Chen Ran作者陈然Male-Channel Fanfiction740k WordsCompleted The protagonist is reborn in the world of The Smiling, Proud Wanderer. What are the Five Mountains Sword Alliance, the Sunflower Manual, or the Dugu Nine Swords compared to doing whatever you please? The martial world is simply a place where people clash with one another. 47Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A novel perfect for reading in one sitting: A young man from the martial arts world ventures into officialdom.

30. 80 秦 Qin's Replacement: A Bricklayer Rewrites Three Hundred Years of Qin History 秦替：泥水匠改写了三百年秦史 Heaven's Way Is Strong6729天行健6729Historical1.4M WordsOngoing Qin's Substitute In 1991, Zhang Daode, a boy from a small town in southwestern Hunan, studied hard and earned excellent results on his high school entrance exam. But someone with power took his place, crushing his hopes of continuing his education and forcing him into a life at the bottom of society as a bricklayer who knew nothing but hardship. Then a sudden fall at a construction site turned his life upside down. When he opened his eyes, he had transmigrated to the end of the Warring States p 1.5kReads9.2Score174Shelves

    Reader note

    The Rise of a Commoner to Power in the Qin Empire

31. 81 女 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 Romance605k 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 287Reads8.9Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book just started receiving ratings, which will likely increase later. It's an ancient Chinese romance novel about political intrigue, court politics, martial arts, warfare, and the fate of the nation. The protagonist has strong moral principles, supporting characters are memorable, and the antagonists are intelligent. The writing, plot, and logic are all solid, but it requires some critical thinking to read.

32. 82 雪 Spring Burns Through the Ashes of Snow 雪烬春灼 The Remarkable Wang Shiyi了不起的王十一Ancient Romance189k WordsOngoing A historical tale of destruction and renewal, hatred and redemption, political intrigue and true devotion. Watch as yesterday's blazing sun is tempered in the deepest darkness, and at last becomes a bright moon shining over the land. Wang Chunxue went from being the prized jewel of the Langya Wang clan to the daughter of a condemned traitor. The imperial decree accusing her family of treason crushed everything she had: her father and brothers, her glory, and her betrothal to the Crown Prince. Af 64Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A high-IQ historical romance novel with intrigue and power struggles, meticulously crafted with each element intricately linked.

33. 83 共 Together, We Pledge Our Names on Mount Yan 共许燕山铭 Angelica Sent to Faraway远志寄当归Ancient Romance440k WordsOngoing [Strong heroine + Political intrigue + Nation and family + Ancient war + Powerful couple + Happy ending] A top assassin and a battle-hardened general make a vow to reclaim their homeland. Childhood sweethearts reunited after years apart, they are each other’s sharpest blade and strongest shield. “I am the blade that will reclaim our mountains and rivers. I’ll cut down every enemy, even if I’m left with nothing but bones!” “I am the net that catches you over the abyss. I’ll keep you safe and give 8Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A great story about family, country, and the world! It features political intrigue, war, strong male and female leads, and characters who fight their way through the imperial court and the martial arts world to seek revenge, reclaim lost territory, and protect the people. Highly recommended!

34. 84 两 A Journey Through Rain and Snow Between the Two Capitals 两京雨雪行 Han Shuangjian韩霜剑Eastern Fantasy552k WordsOngoing A tale of wits and courage, exposing conspiracies and traps, and using clever strategies to break through one challenge after another. The story follows young Wu Feng, who travels alone north at his master’s command to pay a visit to the Iron Flute Hero. He punishes Mongol officers, outwits the Ghost Claw Sect, teaches treacherous villains a lesson, makes a killing selling to Mongol nobles, and wreaks havoc at the execution ground! Hunted at every turn by the Northern Garrison and the Ghost Claw 9Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A martial arts novel set in the Song and Yuan dynasties, a thrilling tale of power struggles, survival, and overcoming obstacles in a chaotic world! It blends national duty, the turbulent world of martial arts, and tender romance! Full of plot twists! Excellent writing!

35. 85 寒 The Day the Frozen Coffin Knocks on the Capital’s Gates, the Reborn Female General Slaughters the Phoenix Clan and Her Kin 寒棺叩京日，重生女将屠凤灭族亲 Hua Yue Ming花月冥Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Historical intrigue + strong female lead + dark, unhinged characters + handsome men + reborn revenge + redemption] When the new emperor ascended the throne, my mother beat the grievance drum and accused me of murdering my siblings, stealing their achievements, and basking in imperial favor. The new emperor, who had once called me his brother, sentenced me to be sliced to death. My younger sister tore out my tongue, and my stepson severed the tendons in my hands and feet. But even those 3,312 cu 19.9kReads7.9Score3.3kShelves
36. 86 公 The Duke’s Estate’s True Daughter Pampers the Chief Assistant Until He Acts Without Restraint 公府真千金，宠得首辅肆无忌惮 Great Wind Tower大风楼Ancient Romance1.2M WordsOngoing [Fake and Real Heiress] [Feel-Good Power Fantasy] [Supernatural Abilities] [Pocket Dimension] [Female Dotes on Male] [Strongest Female Lead, Never Takes a Loss] [Powerhouse Beauty & Frail, Sickly Darling Husband] Xie Shanshan, a greedy and lustful queen of the apocalypse, transmigrates into the true heiress of the Duke of Ning’s household, switched at birth by her biological mother. She had planned to roam the world carefree, but ended up having to go to the capital to claim her identity for the 98.8kReads8.8Score10.1kShelves
37. 87 苍 Cangyuan Demon Emperor: Reborn to Avenge Every Blood Debt! 苍渊魔帝：重生归来，血债血偿！ Young Master Run Yan润衍公子Eastern Fantasy2.5M WordsOngoing Revenge + Strategy + Invincibility + Myriad Worlds + Ensemble Cast The invincible Demon Emperor Cangyuan ruled the Myriad Worlds, yet he was betrayed by his beloved and his sect, nearly suffering the annihilation of his soul and eternal ruin. With only a remnant of his soul, he was reborn in the lower realm, in Xuanxin Heaven, on the Xuanxin Continent, in the Great Qian Dynasty, in Thundercliff City. Reborn and revived, he returns in a trail of blood! He swears to ascend to the upper realm and m 937Reads—Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    This book will definitely love this request.

38. 88 江 An Ordinary Man’s Path Through the Martial World 江湖凡人路 Disciple of Wang Mi王酩之徒Historical375k WordsOngoing This is my first long novel. The early chapters move slowly, but they follow an essential part of the characters’ emotional journeys. After much deliberation, I decided to keep them. Feel free to skip the prologue and start with Chapter One. I hope you’ll understand. On the execution ground, I, Timur, a gifted blacksmith, had become a condemned prisoner. The common folk cursed me for cutting corners and causing the deaths of soldiers on the frontier. My parents knelt below the platform, sobbi 2Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a historical fantasy novel that avoids mindless wish fulfillment and forced idiocy. The writing is solid, and the story is high-energy from the very beginning. The protagonist, from a family of blacksmiths, ends up on the guillotine. It also includes elements of political intrigue and family constraints.

39. 89 神 The Gods Devour Earth 神噬地球 The Old Donkey Keeps Braying驴子老叫Sci-Fi & Apocalypse530k WordsOngoing [Ensemble Cast] [Anti-Cheat Story] [Political Intrigue] [Slow-Burn, Not a Power Fantasy] [No Stereotypical Characters] [Intellectual Battles] [A Mix of Classical and Modern Chinese Prose, Not for Everyone] (Revised through Chapter 34 of Volume Two. The remaining chapters will be updated gradually.) Thermodynamics applies in this book. You cannot regenerate mana forever. Any method of increasing one's power will gradually be discovered by others over time, causing its benefits to diminish until t 48.8kReads9.5Score9.1kShelves

    Reader note

    "Gods Devour Earth" constructs a complex world that blends Cthulhu-esque horror, post-apocalyptic survival, science fiction, and Eastern philosophical speculation. The story progresses from basic struggles for survival to power struggles, ultimately delving into philosophical discussions of the origins of power, the nature of faith, and the rules of the universe. The protagonist, Li Fan, follows a clear path of growth: from using intelligence to survive, to employing strategy and knowledge to grow stronger, and finally to challenging the boundaries of cognition to contemplate the path to godhood. The three volumes progress layer by layer, with the setting unfolding gradually and suspense intricately linked, laying a solid foundation for even grander conflicts and explorations to come.

40. 90 千 Qian Jinhuan 千锦欢 Yun Lingge云翎歌Ancient Romance229k WordsCompleted Completed · [A highly intelligent amnesiac fake princess x a cold, scheming prince] [Not a mindless power fantasy] [Both devoted to each other + classic historical romance + no transmigration, rebirth, or System + political intrigue + doting romance + reunion after a long separation + devotion to country and family + exclusive devotion + the one who got away + happy ending] For twenty years, the second prince of Nantang, Chu Jinyuan, has kept his guard up and trusted no one, until Hua Qianmei ar 472Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a political intrigue novel featuring a cast of highly intelligent characters. The male and female leads are both skilled in literature and martial arts, engaging in strategic battles of wits and courage. Both the plot and the romance are captivating!

41. 91 春 Spring Returns, and the Land Smiles 春来江山笑 Bubble Trickster花式冒泡Ancient Romance833k WordsCompleted [A heroine who grows into an empress + multiple male leads, one heroine with many partners + power struggles + a cast of beautiful, strong, tragic characters + love rivals fighting for her + a childhood-friend general, the Minister of Justice, a neighboring prince, a reclusive divine doctor, and a loyal shadow guard: every kind of male lead you could want] Nearly three hundred years have passed since the founding of the Great Qi dynasty, through the reigns of twelve emperors. History has seen tw 1.2kReads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Here it comes! Guaranteed to be a female-centric power struggle story. The female lead fights her way to become empress, leading five male leads in building their careers while also finding romance. All the characters are intelligent, strong, and tragically beautiful, with no mindless plot twists.

42. 92 上 The Strange Tales of Shangguan Zhaorong 上官昭容诡事录 Bamboo Shoot Buns Are So Delicious竹笋包子超好吃Mystery1.6M WordsCompleted [Completed] [Strong female lead, no romance, Chinese-style horror, transmigration through history, numerous foreshadowed clues, coherent plot, no System, not a power fantasy] [The Strange Tales of Shangguan Zhaorong] [Also known as: Old Tales from the Yellow Springs] [Reader’s guide: The main plot and the individual arcs are interconnected, with plenty of clues and foreshadowing. Almost every character who appears has a role to play, though each arc can also be read as a standalone story.] Th 2.1kReads9.3Score347Shelves
43. 93 被 After Liu Bei Abandoned Me, Cao Cao Begged Me to Be His Strategist 被刘备抛弃后，曹操跪求我当军师 A Salty Fish一支咸鱼Historical1.1M WordsCompleted [A strategist puts himself in the game, then wins by outthinking Heaven itself.] After transmigrating to the Three Kingdoms era, Liu Xian begins serving Liu Bei, a fellow descendant of the Han imperial family, in Pingyuan County. He offers thirty-six ruthless stratagems, only for Liu Bei to accuse him of being an immoral, unjust, and dishonorable man. He goes to Xuzhou to help Tao Qian, but Lü Bu raids their home. Zhang Fei flees on his own, and Liu Xian is captured. He garrisons troops in Xiaop 6.3kReads8.8Score539Shelves

    Reader note

    These books are pretty good; they all feature strategists from the Three Kingdoms period, all of whom served under Cao Cao. There are also two of my favorites, but they're not on Tomato's website: "The Hidden Marquis of the Three Kingdoms" and "The Three Kingdoms: Sweeping the World."

44. 94 规 Rule Horror: Who Taught You to Study Like That? 规则怪谈：谁教你这样读书的 Bamboo Shoot Buns Are So Delicious竹笋包子超好吃Mystery426k WordsCompleted [Strong Female Lead, No Romance, Rule-Based Horror, Infinite Realms, Chinese-Style Horror] Traditional culture has been distorted on a massive scale in modern society. Altered pronunciations, words smeared with stigma, and ancient sayings twisted out of shape are gnawing away at the human soul. Su Muyu, the thirtieth-generation descendant of Su Shi and the sole inheritor of the Soulcrafter lineage, joins Li Guazi, a girl whose past is a mystery, and Mr. Dongli, a word spirit from the handwritt 48Reads9.4Score—Shelves
45. 95 三 Three Kingdoms: Zhuge Liang Borrows Arrows with Straw Boats, So I Send Him a Hundred Thousand Rockets 三国：诸葛亮草船借箭，我送他十万火箭 Chen Miaowu陈喵呜Historical1.6M WordsCompleted In the twelfth year of Jian'an, Guo Jia fell gravely ill, his life nearing its end. Before he died, Guo Jia took Cao Cao's hand and revealed a secret: "My younger brother, Guo Tai, is ten times more capable than I am. He can help my lord achieve great things!" Grieving, Cao Cao visited three times to persuade Guo Tai to enter his service. From the start, it was on the eve of the Battle of Red Cliffs. When Zhuge Liang used straw boats to borrow arrows, Guo Tai simply sent him a hundred thousand f 2.6kReads7.7Score294Shelves
46. 96 大 Kangxi of the Great Qing, Here I Come 大清之康熙帝，我来了 The God of Heaven Fell in Love with You天神爱上你Historical163k WordsOngoing (Modern era + ancient era + transmigration + government + workplace + high technology) Zhou Zhenxing, 45, was originally the chief of the General Affairs Section in the Government Office of Jiangnan City. After graduating from a prestigious university, he was exceptionally promoted to a division-level post in just four or five years. But from then on, his career went nowhere. At work, his superiors kept him down and his colleagues framed him. Miserable and despondent, he went drinking again. On —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so beautiful, an absolute classic. Excellent.

47. 97 老 Trust Me, Cao Cao, I'm Really Not Zhuge Wolong! 老曹信我，我真不是诸葛卧龙！ Red Lamb Wolf红羔狼Historical1.4M WordsCompleted "They say that with either Wolong or Fengchu, you can bring peace to the land. I have Mr. Zhuge, so the land can know peace." Cao Cao smiled at the young man before him. "Hey, Old Cao, don't get carried away. Trust me, I'm really not Zhuge Liang." Zhuge Qiu looked at Cao Cao with exasperation. He never expected that after transmigrating by accident, Cao Cao would mistake him for Zhuge Liang. "I understand what you mean, sir. Keep a low profile, keep a low profile." Cao Cao replied with a smile, 1.3kReads8.4Score130Shelves
48. 98 候 Hou Weidong's Notes on Being an Official 候卫东做官笔记 The God of Heaven Fell in Love with You天神爱上你Urban790k WordsCompleted As a graduate of a prestigious university, Hou Weidong encounters one thorny problem after another upon entering government service, yet manages to turn danger into safety every time. Taking different approaches: that is Hou Weidong’s political philosophy. That is how Hou Weidong conducts himself. That is Hou Weidong’s great wisdom. 3.4kReads6.7Score482Shelves
49. 99 官 The Pinnacle of Officialdom 官场之巅峰时刻 The God of Heaven Fell in Love with You天神爱上你Urban235k WordsCompleted [Satisfying Officialdom Story + Workplace + Political Maneuvering + Inspirational + Business Rivalry + Romance] Out of the blue, he received a notice from the Provincial Party Committee Organization Department: he was being transferred to the Information Division. Downcast, he went fishing at a reservoir in the suburbs and saved an important figure. From then on, his political career took off. 370Reads—Score—Shelves
50. 100 权 The Pinnacle of Political Intrigue 权谋之巅 Tiger 008老虎008Historical414k WordsCompleted The Pinnacle of Political Scheming is an online novel steeped in human nature and the art of political maneuvering. It tells the story of how Lin Yi, the protagonist, uses his extraordinary intelligence and courage to rise from obscurity and become a master strategist amid the tangled power struggles of the imperial capital. In a world full of schemes and betrayal, Lin Yi must use his cunning and resourcefulness to match wits with powerful figures from every faction, cut through layers of confus 859Reads—Score118Shelves

    Reader note

    Some have a romantic pairing, some don't.

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