Please Share Your Number One Historical Romance! I’m Out of Books to Read! 求你们的top1古言！！！书荒了，拜托大家！！！

1. 551 若 If We Could Meet as We Did at First 若如初见 Yi Xuan顗軒Ancient Romance103k WordsCompleted [There is no such thing as love without reason. Every love is forged through countless trials and tribulations, bound together across lifetimes…] “How could I ever bear not to love you? We don't have nearly enough time together as it is. How could we possibly waste time not loving each other?” No encounter is ever a coincidence. It takes five hundred glances exchanged as you pass by in a previous life to earn a meeting in this one… If all of this is just a dream, I hope I can dream a little lo 26Reads8.1Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   The female protagonist came to the Bai family at the age of eight to take care of the dying boy. She personally scraped away the rotting flesh from his body and used her own life essence to cure him. On a lantern night, the two confessed their feelings to each other, but the male protagonist's spiritual power was too strong for his mortal body to bear. Their love was destined to be separated.

2. 552 穿 Reborn as the General’s True Daughter! The Prime Minister Husband’s Boundless Affection 穿成将军嫡女！首辅夫君满门宠 In Dreams of Childhood儿时梦里Ancient Romance749k WordsCompleted The third young master of the Wen family, the Grand Secretary's household, is handsome and exceptionally learned, yet none of the noble young ladies in the capital dares marry him. Rumor has it he won't live to see his twentieth birthday. The General's legitimate fifth daughter was condemned to an early death by a Daoist fortune-teller in the mountains. Before she was even half a month old, she was taken to Tianmen Mountain. Only after turning sixteen and coming down the mountain could she escap 15.5kReads9.0Score1.9kShelves

   Reader note

   🌺🌺The female protagonist wakes up in a carriage to a shock, realizing she has transmigrated into the body of a young lady from a general's mansion who was raised away from home and died young. The fifth young lady of the general's mansion was ordained to die young by the Taoist priest Beishan, taken to Tianmen Mountain less than half a month after birth, destined to die young only after turning sixteen. She vows to be a happy parasite, indulging in a life of leisure, until she meets Wen Jing, the rumored third son of the Grand Secretary, who is also the male protagonist. The Grand Secretary's third son is handsome and learned, yet no noble lady in the capital dares to marry him, as rumors say he won't live past twenty. When the bell at Wen Jing's waist rings, the entire Wen family is alarmed, and then the whole capital is stunned.

3. 553 娘 One Tear from the Empress, and She Acts Her Way to the Emperor's Throne 娘娘一滴泪，演到帝王送凤位 Little Peeled Egg剥壳的小蛋蛋Ancient Romance589k WordsCompleted [Story complete; easy to get around] Shen Qingfu transmigrated into a rebirth novel. The reborn heroine, Chu Can, had grown up with the crown prince, Ning Xuanli, as his childhood sweetheart. Given a second chance at life, she wanted no love, only power and riches. To become the most special person in the crown prince’s heart, she played hard to get. She had schemes, but no feelings. Shen Qingfu was nothing more than the most insignificant cannon fodder in the rebirth novel. Shen Qingfu gave a s 306Reads9.1Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   Except for the fourth book, which isn't about vying for favor, all the others are excellent, not mindless reads. The remaining books are still highly authoritative!

4. 554 嫁 Marrying into a Wealthy Family 嫁大户 Ji Qiushan积丘山Ancient Romance350k WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + merchant couple + married life + sweet everyday romance + family and village life] The heroine is gentle, clear-headed, and never lets anyone push her around. The hero is considerate, witty, and resourceful. The younger daughter of the Shen family in Baihe Town marries the second son of the Xie family, who runs a medicinal herb shop in Ping County. She hears he spends most of his time away from home and that his family has fallen on hard times. She never expec 25.4kReads9.3Score3.5kShelves

   Reader note

   Traditional Chinese romance + merchant couple + everyday life (no rebirth, no time travel). The youngest daughter of the Shen family in Baihe Town marries the second son of the Xie family, who runs a traditional Chinese medicine shop in Pingshan County. She heard he was often away from home and the family had fallen on hard times, but unexpectedly, they were very loving after marriage, loving each other deeply for a lifetime. They remained merchants throughout their lives, never holding official positions or being of noble birth. The male protagonist has two great loves in life: going out to earn money and coming home to play with his wife.

5. 555 愿 May You Remember the Late Boat 愿君忆晚舟 Miao Miao Can Dream苗喵会做梦Ancient Romance580k WordsOngoing [Mutual devotion and fidelity + long-laid plans + traditional historical romance + strong heroine + no transmigration or rebirth + both fall for each other + ancient romance] [The Marquis's Heir with Multiple Identities] ✖️ [The Brilliant General's Legitimate Daughter] Xiao Wan, the general's legitimate daughter who had sworn, “I will never enter the palace,” was summoned back to the capital. On her very first day, the dissolute young heir Gu Xingzhou kept her at his side. In front of everyone 13Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   You won't regret watching this...

6. 556 岁 Years in the Palace 岁岁宫阙 Tea Little Ink茶小墨Ancient Romance706k WordsCompleted Liu Yuetang was sent to a country estate by her legitimate mother the day she was born. When she came of age, her older half-sister gave up her chance to enter the palace because of a dream, stole her match, and spent the night with her betrothed. Liu Yuetang went along with it and decided to enter the palace to carve out a bright future for herself. Once inside, she kept a low profile, learned the arts of the bedchamber, and mastered the art of playing hard to get, pouting coquettishly, and put 11.3kReads8.9Score1.4kShelves
7. 557 大 The Great Qi Marquis of One Step 大齐一步侯 A Single Thought of Nothingness一念无Historical846k WordsCompleted [Alternate history, airtight logic, a treat to listen to, multiple heroines, lighthearted daily life, the jianghu and court politics, love and hate, national and family vendettas...] A modern-day criminal investigator transmigrates into the body of a minor official in the State of Qi. At first, his only dream is to stay alive. But when foreign barbarians invade the Central Plains, slaughtering and pillaging until the kingdom falls and families are torn apart, he has no choice but to enter the fr 15.7kReads8.2Score942Shelves

   Reader note

   A historical fiction novel of exceptionally high quality, perfect for both listening and reading. Clear logic, well-developed characters, rich plot, and tight writing. Not a formulaic, fast-paced story. Please enjoy! [Please follow]

8. 558 穿 After I Transmigrated, I Doted on the God of War Prince 穿越后，我娇养了战神王爷 Singing to the Wind Beneath the Pale Moon浅月吟风Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [Transmigration + medicine + secret identity + special abilities + space + strong female lead + fleeing famine + sweet romance] Gu Qingyue, a super-agent and gifted healer with a healing ability, transmigrates. She wakes up in the body of Gu Qingyue, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo’s household. Since childhood, her aunt has schemed to sell her into a remote village, where she has suffered endless abuse. To resist being sold off as a young concubine to a lecherous old man, she runs 4.4kReads9.0Score506Shelves

   Reader note

   My number one pick. A super agent transmigrates into the body of a peasant girl with superpowers and a spatial ability. She starts out being hunted, but later uses her formidable skills and sharp mind to save many refugee youths and build her own power base. She also encounters a cunning and shrewd male lead, and they experience a mutually pampering relationship—both are virgins. The writing is mature and definitely different from those immature books. Highly recommended!

9. 559 我 I Transmigrated 999 Times and Drove the Mad Tyrant Insane 我穿越999次，逼疯了疯批暴君 Mo Mo Is Master Mo墨墨是墨爷Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted With only six months left to live, Tang Wan masters a skill called “Transmigration,” allowing her to travel back and forth between the modern and ancient worlds. On her first transmigration, people mistake her for a ghost… On her ninety-ninth, she nearly dies at the hands of the dog emperor. On her 108th, she “defiles” the emperor’s innocence. After transmigrating time and again, she discovers to her delight that a little dragon energy can extend her life. Tang Wan: “Mooch, mooch, keep mooching 16.5kReads9.5Score2.2kShelves

   Reader note

   Top Ancient Chinese Romance Books: 1. To survive, she transmigrated into the tyrant's palace every day to absorb dragon energy, becoming a destined-to-die female supporting character. She sneaked into the tyrant's palace every night, only to be pinned down on his dragon bed by him. "My beloved concubine, now that you're here, you're not leaving." 2. Her elder sister-in-law was sickly, and a treacherous minister sought her hand in marriage daily. To save her life, she cared for her sickly younger brother, only to be pestered by him every night. "Since my sister-in-law has taken care of me, you'll take care of me for the rest of my life." 3. A delicate merchant's daughter was forced into an arranged marriage, unaware that her husband already knew her identity. "My lady, you don't need to pretend to be obedient. Just be yourself." 4. A cold and aloof minister turned white-haired at her grave. Reborn on her wedding night, this time she decided to live well and see how he pursued her through a "wife-chasing" crematorium. 5. Grand Tutor, stop pretending! Everyone knows you're head over heels in love. The seemingly cold Grand Tutor secretly cleared obstacles for her. "Whoever touches her?" "I will execute their entire family." 6. She died saving him in her past life, returned to her wedding night, and stirred things up. Reborn before the tragedy, she took the initiative to seduce her husband. "This time, it's my turn." "I'll spoil you."

10. 560 青 Childhood Sweethearts to Lovers: Returning with a Jade in His Arms 青梅变竹马，朝阳抱玉归 Widowed, But Not Lonely鳏寡非孤独Ancient Romance394k WordsOngoing [Female Disguise, Iron-Blooded Heir × Male Disguise, Downtrodden Sixth Prince] [Historical Romance, Alternate Setting | Pure Historical Romance, no transmigration, no System | Both are chaste in body and heart, each other's first and only love | Includes war and court intrigue. The plot is fictional, so please don't nitpick the details.] Xie Yu is the "only son" of the Marquis of Dingyuan's household. She has disguised herself as a boy since childhood and is destined to defend the northwest in 784Reads—Score109Shelves

    Reader note

    Anyone want to try this? [Crying emoji]

11. 561 带 Exiled with a Pawnshop System 带着典当系统被流放 Little Wang's Secret Identity小王的小马甲Ancient Romance218k WordsOngoing Her entire family was convicted, and shackles bound her as she was sent down this perilous road of exile. Just as she was about to freeze or starve to death in the wilderness, the System suddenly awakened. The System's rules were simple: energy must be conserved. Nothing in the world comes for free, and obtaining anything requires pawning something of equal value in exchange. Once a noble young lady of an illustrious family, she became a convict overnight. The road ahead was long, and hunger, co 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    She should have been a pampered noblewoman, but overnight she was convicted and exiled. On the verge of death, she unlocked a pawning system. There were no gifts that came out of thin air; she bartered for food and clothing, cleared the wilderness, gathered talented people, and waited for the right opportunity for revenge.

12. 562 寡 The Widow's Sister-in-Law Has Nowhere to Run, and the Mad Chancellor Vomits Blood Again 寡嫂无处逃，疯批丞相又吐血了 Folded in the Mist折雾里Ancient Romance634k WordsCompleted [Beautiful, decisive young widow vs. refined, deranged villainous minister] [System + fleeing while pregnant + transmigrate into a book + male lead reborn] Song Yao transmigrated into a book as the villainous minister’s widowed sister-in-law. She was caught red-handed while eloping with another man. The villainous minister, who would one day hold power over the entire court, was currently nothing but a sickly young man. Remembering the tragic fate of the original owner, Song Yao immediately deci 9.5kReads9.2Score1.2kShelves
13. 563 通 A Secret Concubine’s Good News Brings Blessings to the General’s Mansion 通房有喜，福满将军府 Fishing Around Again Today今天也摸鱼Ancient Romance550k WordsCompleted [Both virgins + one-on-one romance + sweet pampering + lots of children + not a strong female lead + happy ending. Friendly reminder: think carefully before having children; this novel is just for entertainment.] Bei Ci transmigrates. She becomes a little street urchin who nearly starves to death. Luckily, the kind-hearted old madam of the general’s manor buys her for two taels of silver, sparing her the fate of dying the moment she transmigrates. As time passes, she sees through the cruel truth 6.6kReads9.0Score673Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a good read, a good new genre for when you don't have any books to read. A maidservant cleverly manipulates a general's heart; it's romantic. The female lead has strong moral principles, and the male lead is very doting.

14. 564 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 Romance842k 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

    Pure historical romance. It's been years since I've seen a novel like this on Tomato Bookstore—substantial, engaging, and unpretentious. A must-read for female lead lovers; just read the reviews to see how well-developed the male and female leads are.

15. 565 她 After She Died, the Coldhearted Powerful Official's Hair Turned White Overnight 她死后，冷冰冰的权臣一夜白头 Mu Mianmian慕绵绵Ancient Romance641k WordsCompleted [Not an angst novel + heartwarming + no logic + read it to see if it suits your taste] After transmigrating into a book, Hua Zhao had her memories erased and became a tool whose job was to give the heroine a golden finger. To top it off, she was also the infamous, short-lived first wife of the villainous minister. Luckily, she regained her memories and cut her losses in time. The heroine’s golden finger? Sorry, that’s a family heirloom that came with me when I transmigrated into the book! Her in 134kReads9.4Score10.9kShelves
16. 566 心 The Moon's Longing 心月迢迢 Yun Ziyou云子柚Ancient Romance279k WordsCompleted (1v1) Both are devoted only to each other. Jiang Xinyue’s childhood sweetheart and husband went off to war one day and was never heard from again. She held the family together alone, cared for the elders, raised their young child, and opened an embroidery shop. Then one day, she suddenly learned that her husband was not only still alive, but had become a celebrated general and was about to marry a beautiful woman and join the imperial family. He had completely forgotten her and their child. Jian 1.3kReads8.4Score122Shelves

    Reader note

    Her childhood sweetheart, her husband, went to war and disappeared without a trace. She single-handedly supported the family, caring for the elderly, raising her young child, and running an embroidery shop. Then one day, she suddenly learned that her husband was not only alive, but had become a renowned general, and was about to marry a beautiful bride as a member of the royal family, completely forgetting her and their child. She thought, "Forget it, forced love is never sweet." She decided to accept his death and focus on earning money. But then one day, this man, clad in armor and radiating murderous intent, appeared before her. "You dare marry someone else with my child? Do you think I'm dead?" She demanded. Later, he embraced her, his expression forlorn, pleading pitifully, "Please don't abandon me. I'll try to remember..." (Completed sweet romance novel)

17. 567 风 When the Wind Rises in Lingbiao: The Five Dynasties’ Seven Governors 风起岭表之五代七刺史 Dust Watching from East Mountain东山望之尘Historical117k WordsCompleted Ning Mengli possessed strength enough to reach the heavens and virtue that rivaled the divine emperor. He guarded the nation's frontier and reclaimed the wilderness. Ning Changzhen had the ambition to encompass mountains and rivers and the noble bearing of clouds and mist. He subdued Jiaozhi, campaigned against Linyi, and seized Shebei. Ning Yuan Ti was the first successful candidate in the imperial examinations from Lingnan, a distinguished remonstrance official in the Kaiyuan Golden Age. Begin 5Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Ancient and powerful writing.

18. 568 攻 I Was Trying to Win Over the Male Lead, but Accidentally Won Over the System 攻略男主时，却意外攻略了系统 Xu Nuonuo Yan许诺诺言Ancient Romance93k WordsOngoing Lin Ran thought she was terribly unlucky. She’d stayed up late working hard on her thesis, only to wake up transmigrated into a romance game! What do you mean I have to complete the missions and win over all the male leads to get home? What do you mean I’ll turn into an NPC if I fail? And what do you mean I don’t have a single coin in the in-game shop? Lin Ran stared at the big white cat System in front of her as it said the words that made her want to die in a perfectly flat voice. She wanted t —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It's really beautiful!

19. 569 太 Lord Tutor, Stop Pretending. Everyone Knows You’re Head Over Heels 太傅大人别装了，都知道你爱惨了 Wuyou Li乌有理Ancient Romance434k WordsCompleted [Reborn] [One-on-one romance, devoted couple, happy ending] Original title: The Zither and Flute Went Astray [Devoted, restrained aloof beauty of a powerful minister ✖️ resilient, brave heiress known as the Phoenix] The Zhu family has lost all its sons, but still has more money than it could ever spend. Their prominence makes them a target, and with no allies to turn to, the entire family was executed by the crown prince in her previous life. Reborn, Zhu Zheng agrees to her grandmother's 6.8kReads9.1Score718Shelves
20. 570 既 Since He Loves His Cousin, I'll Let Them Be Together 既然他爱表妹，那我成全他们 October Fox十月狐8k WordsCompleted Since he loves his cousin, I'll make their wish come true 162Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Top 1 Ancient Chinese Romance

21. 571 新 On My Wedding Night, the Poor Little Bride Transmigrates into a Hunter’s Wife 新婚夜，小可怜穿成猎户家小媳妇 Please Have a Drink请酒一杯Ancient Romance609k WordsCompleted A broad-shouldered, long-legged, filthy-talking male lead with a strong waist x a delicate, sweet, affectionate female lead who's a lucky koi fish Su Qianqian never imagined that one slip of her foot would send her joining the transmigration crowd, back to her tragic past life, and straight into her wedding night. The candlelight was dim. The man breathed hard and moved without a trace of gentleness, leaving her too afraid to make a sound. But when she remembered that she had met a gruesome end 5.2kReads9.3Score535Shelves

    Reader note

    You absolutely must read this book! It's so addictive! Turning the first page is like falling into a whirlpool; the plot is so fast-paced it's breathless, and every twist is like a carefully crafted cocktail, with a powerful aftertaste.

22. 572 反 The Villainess Is Reborn: The Supporting Female Lead Refuses to Play Along 反派重生 : 女配她不干了 Pipi Loves Tangerines爱吃橘子的皮皮Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted Yin Susu opened her eyes and, wow, she had been reborn for the second time. The plot was exactly the same, and so were all the awful problems. She had planned to spend this life eating her fill and waiting to die, just coasting along until the supporting female character reached the end of her life and this whole existence was over. But she still wasn’t willing to accept her fate! If the heroine had a golden finger, then she’d just have to break it. 12.6kReads9.1Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommend these!!! They're all high-scoring ancient Chinese romance novels that I love!!!

23. 573 回 The Spring Renewal Pharmacy 回春药铺 The Coldest Days Are Coming小寒将至Ancient Romance432k WordsCompleted [Pure historical romance + no rebirth or transmigration + revenge + political intrigue] Every thrilling tale begins in a little apothecary. After a chance encounter, a master and apprentice who have both suffered the slaughter of their families and endured countless hardships find themselves facing powerful enemies. They have no choice but to assume secret identities and disappear into the bustling streets of the capital, plotting carefully and advancing step by step as they seek revenge, stirri 21kReads9.4Score2.7kShelves

    Reader note

    🔥The pinnacle of ancient Chinese revenge romance! A historical version of *Nirvana in Fire*, featuring patient revenge and high-stakes strategic maneuvering—a non-stop thrill ride! [Smirk][Smirk] The orphaned son of a murdered family, Ah Cheng, and his master, Yan Hui, hide in a Kyoto pharmacy, disguising themselves as "ordinary people" to meticulously plot their revenge against the powerful Marquis of Cheng'en. It turns out the pharmacy master and apprentice are actually the orphaned sons of a murdered family, having concealed their identities for fifteen years before striking down their enemies without a trace! Assassinations of the Marquis and the old lady with the shaved head ignite a bloody storm in the court, drawing the Crown Prince and the Commander of the Imperial Guard into the fray! Schemes involving sleeping potions and secret medicines lead to a counterattack, with the wise and resourceful Master Zhiyuan providing crucial assistance—an explosively satisfying experience! The enigmatic thief Yan Chen and the struggle for the elixir of immortality create suspense and intrigue! [Heart][Heart][Heart]

24. 574 娘 Her Majesty Is a Bewitching Beauty, and Her Mad Ex-Husband Bows to Her 娘娘百媚千娇，疯批前夫为她折腰 Brown Sugar Boba Fresh Milk黑糖啵啵鲜奶Ancient Romance353k WordsCompleted [Possessive Conquest + Reunion After Years Apart + Push and Pull + Groveling Chase + Some Angst] [The new book has only just received its rating, so it’s still rather low.] The God of War general of Daliang was a bloodthirsty monster, doomed to live forever in darkness. Betrayed by the woman he loved, manipulated by his mentor. He fell from his lofty pedestal into the dust, becoming a useless man anyone could bully. After a palace coup, the God of War general of old was reborn. He killed his 229Reads8.2Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    These three books are my absolute favorites. Of course, this doesn't mean the others are bad; it's just that these three were the most captivating historical romance novels I've ever read. The plots are excellent, and the main characters are very fresh. The first one is a pure tragedy, but the male lead isn't entirely wrong—he's willing to do anything for the female lead from the start, but she's also a pitiful character. The second one is truly amazing; the female lead is brave, resourceful, and incredibly intelligent, and the male lead's love is profound. It's a great read, without any major flaws. The third one, although low-rated, has a plot that really resonates with me. I don't know why, but once I start reading this kind of book, I can't stop. The female lead is so pitiful; she has no one to rely on, and then her maid is brutally murdered. Later, the male lead forces her to bleed to save Wen Yan, which is truly heartbreaking. I feel so sorry for her. I hope the author can let the female lead get revenge later and not make her suffer so much. In short, all three are incredibly, incredibly good. I hope this helps everyone.

25. 575 凤 The Phoenix Rules Over Nine Thousand Years 凤驭九千岁 Na Bao's yiyi娜寶的yiyiAncient Romance403k WordsOngoing [Eldest princess + powerful eunuch + yandere + devoted to each other + two strong leads + wild premise + alternate history] No transmigration, no rebirth, pure historical romance, and a eunuch in name only. One is the legitimate eldest princess, showered with affection. The other is the ruthless, powerful Ninth Thousand-Year Lord, who holds the court in his grasp. One is scheming, the other vicious. The world sighs: The cold-blooded King of Hell bows only to Chaoyang. The princess is noble and d 636Reads—Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    Purely ancient Chinese romance! No time travel, no rebirth! The beloved eldest princess falls for the alluring and powerful Ninth Prince at first sight! She loves money and lust, she can never have too much money, and her lust is only for one person!

26. 576 沦 Sent to the Imperial Entertainment Bureau, I Dump the Crown Prince and Marry a Powerful Official 沦落教坊司，弃太子！嫁权臣 Hua Ruoyu花若雨Ancient Romance372k WordsCompleted [Sweet romance, angsty love, devoted to one another, government courtesan, forced love] [The top scorer’s long road to winning her back × the scumbag crown prince’s long road to winning her love] The grand Left Chancellor’s residence, once the most splendid estate in Bianjing, was confiscated. Shen Zhiyu, once a pampered daughter of the chancellor’s household, became the lowest-ranking government courtesan in the Entertainment Bureau overnight. Her childhood sweetheart, the crown prince, made 9.6kReads6.6Score906Shelves

    Reader note

    📌A lifesaver for those suffering from a reading slump in ancient Chinese romance novels!! Rebirth|Political Intrigue|Sweet and angsty|Strong female lead, not love-struck, clear-headed and focused on her career; male lead, reserved yet deeply affectionate, willing to risk everything for love; love and hate intertwined; stories unfold in both the imperial court and the martial world, with constant plot twists. The more you read, the more addictive it becomes! Readers in a reading slump, just close your eyes and jump in!✅

27. 577 宁 Ning Jinge 宁烬歌 Calm as Ever冷静如斯Ancient Romance697k WordsOngoing [Female commander × top-tier spy and assassin | Two equally matched leads | Court intrigue and the martial world | Standing together in troubled times | Devoted 1v1 romance] The sweeping scale of a male-oriented story, with the emotional depth of a female-oriented one. Fast-paced and tightly plotted, with no filler or dragging. The political intrigue is logical, and long-laid clues are brought back into play. A serious world with lighthearted, hilarious everyday moments, and an incredibly sweet 379Reads8.5Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    His identity is not just that of a spy; it involves maritime forces and remnants of the old dynasty. The further you read into the later parts of the story, the more you can see the vast chessboard surrounding him.

28. 578 剖 The More Ruthlessly She Dissects, the More Beautiful She Becomes: The Capital's Female Coroner Goes on a Killing Spree 剖骨越狠她越美：京城女仵作杀疯 Meow Meow Is Slacking Off Today喵喵今日摆烂Mystery233k WordsOngoing [Ancient mystery + strong heroine + political intrigue + historical romance] Su Yanxue, daughter of a disgraced official, keeps herself hidden in a brothel. A murder involving hibiscus-scented balm brings her poison skills to light, and the “Living Yama,” Lu Huaizhang, the head of the Court of Judicial Review, compels her to serve as a forensic consultant. The seven-day lethal poison patterns found on a corpse lead to the bloody case of the Crown Prince deposed ten years ago, and to the old inju 2Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The seemingly ugly female coroner whom everyone avoids is actually intelligent, resilient, and possesses unparalleled poison skills. She is infallible in dissecting corpses and identifying criminals. She is both ruthless and gentle, and specializes in curing all wrongful convictions in the world!

29. 579 腿 My Legs Turned to Jelly When My Sickly Horse Slave Became a Mad Regent 腿软，病娇马奴成了疯批摄政王 Wei Liao苿燎Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted The short drama Palm Luan is now open for reservations on Hongguo [Sweet, clear-headed, flirtatious beauty x sick, mad, obsessive regent] One-on-one, both leads have only ever been with each other, happy ending, possessive love and redemption "My life is yours. Are you sure you want to marry someone else?" On the day Shen Nannan was to be married, the mad regent pressed a sharp sword to his own throat and let beads of blood roll down as he asked her with a smile, "Then why not use my life to add 61.1kReads9.0Score8.1kShelves
30. 580 被 After Being Kidnapped, I Was Doted on by a Tyrant 被拐后，我被暴君娇养了 A Grain of White Sand一粒沙白Ancient Romance400k WordsCompleted [Scheming tyrant × sweet, delicate princess] [Sweet historical romance] [Rekindled love] Gu Jinzhi ran away on the day she was supposed to marry an elderly prince. She had intended to seek refuge with her second brother, but in her panic she ran straight into the territory of a tyrant in Yongzhou! Xiao Heng looked at the delicate young woman in the snow and gave a scornful laugh. “She's barely a teenager, and that old prince would still lay his hands on her?!” Gu Jinzhi decided to escape his clu 4.9kReads9.2Score539Shelves
31. 581 踹 After Dumping the Jerk, the Whole Capital Lines Up to Marry Me 踹翻渣男后，全京城排队求娶 Moonlight Falling on Branches明月落枝Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Audio edition available. Search for it to listen] In her previous life, for Jiang Yin's sake, Gu Ying cast aside the dignity of being the legitimate daughter of the Earl of Dongping's household, pursuing him relentlessly until she finally became his wife. Later, Jiang Yin rose to the highest ranks of the court. First he plotted against the country, then he killed her father and wiped out her family. Her scoundrel of a husband and her treacherous sister plotted together to break both her legs an 2.6kReads8.9Score699Shelves

    Reader note

    The first book I highly recommend is a bit long, though. The female lead is reborn, and there are some ups and downs at the beginning, but it's quite satisfying to read to the end, otherwise I probably would have really been working myself to death [awkward laugh]. The second book is also good, with the male and female leads having all sorts of entanglements. The male lead starts out being a jerk, but later he has a dramatic reversal of fortune.

32. 582 黛 Daiyu Goes on a Rampage in Dream of the Red Chamber With Her Face-Reading Skills 黛玉靠相术在红楼杀疯了 Nan Mutong南沐桐Female-Channel Fanfiction573k WordsOngoing [Dream of the Red Chamber fan fiction + powerful Lin Daiyu + improved Jia Baoyu + political intrigue + palace intrigue + household battles + devoted couples + strong female lead] So “repaying tears” can mean tears of joy, tears of salvation! Through her mastery of physiognomy, Daiyu defies fate and changes her destiny. She not only saves Baoyu, but many of her loved ones as well. The tears she sheds in this life are worth a fortune! 20Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    An absolutely high-quality novel, incredibly detailed, highly recommended! This novel is not only a pleasure to read, but it also makes up for many of the regrets I had when reading the original version of "Dream of the Red Chamber," making it even more enjoyable to read. It's definitely worth reading.

33. 583 裙 A Servant Beneath Her Skirts 裙下臣 Rice Ball米团子Ancient Romance2.1M WordsCompleted Someone tells Li Yi, “The Lu family's daughter your imperial brother is going to marry is beautiful, sure, but she's as dull as a block of wood.” Li Yi scoffs. “What, did that block of wood come to life?” 1.9kReads8.9Score520Shelves
34. 584 夜 Spring Tides Night After Night: The Mad Imperial Uncle’s Captive 夜夜春潮，疯批皇叔禁脔奴 Closed for the Night今晚打烊了Ancient Romance190k WordsOngoing [Rival suitors + irresistible heroine + romantic entanglements + clear-eyed schemer] Jiang Youwan was tortured to death in her previous life by the Imperial Noble Consort, then left hanging outside the Cold Palace as everyone's laughingstock. When she opens her eyes again, she has been reborn to a time before Xia Sucheng recovered his memories. “Jiang Youwan, where did you find this wild man? Have you no shame?” “Xia Sucheng? He's a live-in son-in-law I bought!” “My husband.” “I'm here. I've alw 4Reads—Score102Shelves
35. 585 重 After I Was Reborn and Fell Out of Love, the Heir Apparent Started to Panic 重生不爱后，世子开始慌了 Midsummer Flourish孟夏扶疏Ancient Romance419k WordsCompleted [Not a Tragedy + Lots of Twists + Yandere + Coming-of-Age Romance + Past and Present Lives] Lin Shu and Su Muzhe grew up together. Su Muzhe treated Lin Shu like a younger sister and was always kind to her, never realizing that she had long since fallen in love with him. She knew he was a favored child of heaven, with a noble background. She also knew that she was ordinary in family and appearance, just one face in the crowd, so she never dared to hope for anything. On his wedding day, she hid 1.6kReads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Lin Shu and Su Muzhe were childhood sweethearts. Su Muzhe treated Lin Shu like a younger sister, but Lin Shu secretly harbored feelings for him. On Su Muzhe's wedding day, Lin Shu sincerely wished him and his bride a long and happy life together. However, Lin Shu was betrayed and slept with Su Muzhe on his wedding night, and the two were caught in the act. Su Muzhe hated being schemed against and felt nothing but disgust for Lin Shu. Afterwards, Lin Shu was forced into marriage as a concubine in the prince's household amidst public scorn. For ten years, she endured gossip and scorn, living a precarious life, eventually succumbing to illness. On her deathbed, she murmured that if there were an afterlife, she would sever all ties with Su Muzhe and never love him again. Reborn, Lin Shu resolved never to love Su Muzhe again, and Su Muzhe's attitude seemed to have changed.

36. 586 绑 After Binding to a System, I Became the Future Big Shot's Beloved 绑定系统后我成了未来大佬白月光 Sweet and Sour Cakes酸甜饼饼Ancient Romance144k WordsOngoing [A series of one-on-one romances * a universally adored heroine and the love of everyone's life] [A rebellious, ruthless would-be traitor who acts tough but is hopelessly lovesick × a gentle woman who transmigrated into a book, determined to change her fate, only to become everyone's beloved] In her seventh year since arriving in Great Liang by accident, Xiao Ning'an finally bound herself to a System that had arrived very late. Xiao Ning'an wasn't particularly interested in the System. She onl 9Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a historical romance novel that doesn't place all its emphasis on the love story. The female protagonist focuses most of her attention on the safety of her family and remains very clear-headed when faced with arranged marriages. She encounters a young man from a foreign tribe who has been living in exile, recognizes his extraordinary potential, and takes care of and supports him in every way. The book effectively portrays the power struggles between court factions and aristocratic families, and each person's choices are consistent with their own circumstances, making for a highly immersive reading experience.

37. 587 穿 I Transmigrated to Ancient Egypt, Only to Be Forced into Love by an Obsessive Pharaoh? 穿越古埃及，被偏执法老强制爱？ Little Sand Mouse Mouse Mouse小沙鼠鼠鼠Ancient Romance228k WordsOngoing [Transmigrate to Ancient Egypt | Tyrant's Captive Pet | Torment First, Then Sweetness, Torment and Sweetness… | Male Lead Is Not a Virgin at the Start | Two Endings, 1v1] The new book's rating should go up... right? Su Li, a freshman in the modern dance department at Kyoto University, travels to Egypt because of her interest in ancient Egyptian writing and the country's unique scenery. But she accidentally touches a mysterious ancient pattern and transmigrates to ancient Egypt three thousand 59.8kReads7.3Score6.6kShelves

    Reader note

    I stayed up all night reading so many chapters in one go! Writing about ancient Egyptian pharaohs is really difficult, but this one manages to be brilliant! Amidst swirling yellow sands and towering temples, a pharaoh wielding the power of life and death encounters a girl from the modern world. His love is imprisonment, possession—he imprisons her while simultaneously showering her with the best of everything in the world. A tug-of-war of love and hate, full of tension, I couldn't stop reading!

38. 588 纨 The Playboy Heir Dresses as a Woman, and the General Falls for Him 纨绔世子穿上女装：将军沦陷了 Yi Yuan亿圆Ancient Romance342k WordsCompleted [Completed, woman disguised as a man + mutual devotion + sweet romance + lighthearted + general] Everyone in Zhaodu knew that Song Wuyou, heir to the Duke of Song’s estate, looked like a gentleman but was rotten to the core. It was bad enough that this young devil wreaked havoc on his own. He even had the nerve to lust after Pei Qingyun, the only scholar-warrior top scorer in all of Great Zhao, every woman’s dream man, and an undefeated, cold-faced general! At first, whenever Song Wuyou and Pei 5.7kReads9.3Score604Shelves
39. 589 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

    Reader note

    No more feeling lost in a reading slump! This book is definitely worth following. The plot is engaging, the characters are compelling, and there's no disappointing ending. You won't regret reading it; you'll want more after you finish! A highly recommended gem! The plot is tight and fast-paced, packed with exciting moments, and the writing is smooth and immersive. Once you start reading, you'll be hooked and won't want to put it down! I've discovered a treasure of a novel, with likable characters, an explosive plot, and not a single dull moment. If you like this genre, don't miss it! [Kissing emoji]

40. 590 静 The Prince Jing’s Consort: Master, Save Me 静王妃之师傅救我 Murong Yiyu慕容忆鱼Ancient Romance807k WordsOngoing Originally titled The Princess Consort of Prince Jing, this novel was renamed The Princess Consort of Prince Jing: Master, Save Me in memory of a departed friend. It tells the story of Princess Murong Jingwen of Beiping. After descending from Yuntai Mountain, she misses her chance to marry Lin Yutai and is sent far away to the Chen Kingdom to wed Prince Jing as part of a political alliance. She is abducted along the way, and meets Li Chaoyang, a villager of the Chen Kingdom. Thus begins the stor 63Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I really like this book that's about to finish.

41. 591 七 Her Seven Brothers Died in Battle, and the Legitimate Daughter Returned Darkened 七个哥哥战死沙场，嫡女黑化归来 Wild Donkey Tribe野驴部落Ancient Romance1.1M WordsOngoing [Historical romance, court intrigue, palace and household scheming, reborn, joining forces, legitimate daughter, revenge, two formidable leads, transmigrate into a book, seven older brothers, no saintly heroine, miracle doctor, adored by all, comeback, punishing scoundrels, imperial uncle, devoted husband, devoted couple] The comment section is 99% positive! Read with confidence! “Shen Nanqiao, being chosen to marry into the Eastern Palace is a blessing for your Duke of Zhenguo household!” Rebor 4.1kReads7.2Score825Shelves
42. 592 奸 The Treacherous Official's Wife: A Book-Transmigrated Heroine's Farming Life 奸臣之妻：书穿女配好种田 Youyou Doesn't Eat Spicy Food柚柚不吃辣Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Farming + sweet romance + family bonds + political intrigue + healing + comedy] Cui Wantang had lived with her old charlatan of a master, dependent on each other. After he died, she was left all alone. Then one day, she transmigrated into a book she hadn't finished reading, becoming the wife of the villainous minister. [The book said Song Yu was a smiling tiger, ruthless and cruel, a lackey and a weapon for the antagonist.] But at this point, Song Yu was only a poor young man who hadn't turned 24.5kReads9.4Score3.5kShelves
43. 593 公 After the Princess Returned to the Capital, the Whole City Showered Her with Love 公主回京后被全皇城追着宠 Evening Ripples晚漾Ancient Romance363k WordsCompleted [1v1 historical romance, adored by everyone, no rebirth or transmigration for the protagonist + childhood sweethearts + sweet romance and fun + no annoying side characters] Princess Changning’s father commands the army and has rendered such great service that his power eclipses the throne. Rumor has it that she is just as arrogant and overbearing, and as ruthless as they come. Summoned back to the capital, she is instead doted on by all the capital’s most powerful figures. But the Censorate keep 5.3kReads9.1Score602Shelves

    Reader note

    This is super good-looking, morally upright, hilarious, and everyone is a perfect wingman.

44. 594 说 Weren’t We Supposed to Divorce? So Why Am I Pregnant? 说好的和离呢，我怎么揣崽了？ Spring Knife Cold春刀寒Ancient Romance445k WordsCompleted Gu Mingzhu was a beautiful fool with nothing but looks. One day, she got into the wrong bridal sedan and married Xie Tingzhi, the famous Minister of the Court of Judicial Review in the capital. They said the heir was as gentle as jade, yet on their wedding night, he asked for a divorce? Clutching Xie Tingzhi's enormous compensation, Gu Mingzhu tearfully agreed. Her elder sister, Gu Mingyue, who was supposed to marry Xie Tingzhi, instead wed Xie Qingxiu, a notorious playboy. Everyone felt she 4.5kReads8.3Score305Shelves

    Reader note

    Completed novel. The female lead is stunningly beautiful, carefree, and a little naive, while the male lead is cunning and calculating. Initially, he tells the female lead that their three-month marriage is up, but later he begs and pleads to keep her from leaving. It's not melodramatic, the leads are engaging, and it's a sweet and enjoyable read.

45. 595 救 Help! The Horror NPCs Are Lining Up for Me to Do Their Makeup 救命！惊悚NPC都排队找我化妆 Wild Donkey Tribe野驴部落Mystery519k WordsCompleted [Horror game + NPCs + horror survival + no System] Su Qing, a workaholic makeup artist, was just working overtime. When she opened her eyes again, she had been sucked into a horror game with a 99% death rate! As she watched her teammates panic and wet themselves, the bottom-performing Slit-Mouthed Woman approached her with a pair of scissors. Su Qing despaired. But wait... This woman’s makeup is way too crude! Her professional instincts kicked in, and she blurted out, “Your makeup isn’t working. 864Reads—Score186Shelves
46. 596 宠 The Reborn Favorite Consort Is Alluring, and the Emperor Can't Leave Court Early 宠妃重生，腰软，勾的帝王不早朝 Er Can尔灿Ancient Romance422k WordsCompleted [Rebirth + spoiled, airheaded beauty + lovestruck emperor + favored consort + pregnant darling + Noble Consort and imperial physician + sole favorite] Lu Yunshu died. She drank the poisoned wine, and her organs twisted into knots. It was unbearable. She thought the poison would kill her the moment it reached her stomach. But it didn’t. After being forced to drink it, Lu Yunshu struggled for three whole days. Her insides felt torn apart, as though every organ had been soaked in poison. Three days 837Reads—Score100Shelves

    Reader note

    I also highly recommend it.

47. 597 主 The Mistress's Daily Life 主母日常 Zhou Dabai周大白Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [An Aristocratic Lady Tears Apart a Transmigrator + Reborn + An Idyllic, Leisurely Life as the Mistress of an Ancient Estate] Lu Lingjun and her legitimate younger sister, Lu Hanyi, were both reborn. In their previous lives, Lu Lingjun married the second son of a sixth-rank civil official, while her younger sister married the heir to a marquis’s estate. Everyone said her sister had made the better match. But who could have guessed that Lu Lingjun’s husband would become the prime minister and sec 23.8kReads9.0Score3.2kShelves

    Reader note

    These will always be my top ancient Chinese romance novels!

48. 598 前 My Ex-Husband Gets to Be a Dad? I'll Marry a Rugged Man Who Can't Have Children and Carry Twins 前夫喜当爹？我嫁绝嗣糙汉怀双宝 Ke Xin柯新Modern Romance211k WordsOngoing [Period] [Second Marriage] [Rugged Husband Dotes on His Wife] [Twins] [Brutal Revenge on the Scumbags] [Size Difference] Zhao Qingqing had been married for seven years without a child. Her mother-in-law beat her and drove her out, while her ex-husband rushed to marry a widow carrying another man's baby. Qingqing immediately turned around and married Han Tie Zhu, the ferocious butcher rumored to be unable to have children, whom no one in the commune dared to cross. Han Tie Zhu seemed cold and sho 576Reads—Score106Shelves
49. 599 周 One and Only: This Life, I Won't Let Shiyi Down 周生如故之辰此一生，不负十一 Joy喜樂Female-Channel Fanfiction161k WordsCompleted Fan fiction based on the TV series One and Only. Original novel: One Life, One Incarnation: Beautiful Bones by Mo Bao Fei Bao Both the male and female leads are reborn. A sweet romance with a happy ending for everyone. In their previous lives, Zhou Shengchen was sentenced to the punishment of having his bones removed, and during her investiture ceremony, Shi Yi resolutely leaped from the city gate... “Zhou Shengchen, I’ve come to marry you. If there’s a next life, how about you marry me first? I 3.2kReads9.4Score390Shelves
50. 600 偏 The Possessive Power Broker Holds Her Close and Whispers Sweet Nothings 偏执权臣对她揽腰撩哄 Sheng Ruyi盛如意Ancient Romance183k WordsCompleted [One-on-one romance, secret crush, devoted husband, the second male lead’s pursuit ends in heartbreak because he never wins her back, substitute bride] Gu Zhou, the second son of the Prince of Ning’s household, loved a woman who became his friend’s wife. To hide his feelings for her, he proposed to Ye Yu’an, the younger sister of his beloved. Ye Yu’an was sweet and well-behaved. She thought Gu Zhou loved her, never realizing she had been kept in the dark: she was nothing but her sister’s substit 893Reads8.9Score100Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so good, so good! Worth reading multiple times. I've read each book several times.

Other lists with If We Could Meet as We Did at First