Your All-Time Top Shelf Read, The One You Can Never Forget 在你书架上的top1，永远不能忘的那种，推给我！！

1. 51 纵 Surrender to Temptation: The Black-and-Gold Emperor's Cherished Darling 纵情引诱，黑金冷皇的掌心娇宠 Second Egg Dog二蛋狗Modern Romance741k WordsCompleted [Cold-blooded Mafia boss x sweet, clueless girl with a troubled past] [Devoted to each other + one-on-one romance + happy ending + seven-year age gap + doting, fatherly boyfriend + sizzling chemistry + mutual salvation] (If you can’t handle a weak heroine, this isn’t for you.) (Not realistic fiction. A completely fictional modern setting, plot-driven, with an ensemble cast and multiple couples.) * The first time Cheng Yi saw Lu Qian, she was covered in dust, huddled in a corner of his car like a 4.2kReads9.3Score409Shelves
2. 52 好 Such a Good Girl 好一个乖乖女 I Took Great Pains我煞费苦心Modern Romance361k WordsCompleted [Print edition signed] [Short drama now streaming] [Sweet romance with a touch of angst] [Fake-good, scheming heroine x domineering wealthy tyrant] [Both leads are each other’s only one] Duan Xiuming first met Lu Mingyu at a wedding. She was stunningly beautiful, yet looked like a well-behaved good girl, sitting off to the side and painting because someone had told her to. “Boring woman,” he judged. But in the blink of an eye, Lu Mingyu gave him a huge surprise! She destroyed her painting and co 30.9kReads9.5Score4.1kShelves
3. 53 掌 Possessiveness 掌控欲 Lan Sheng澜笙Modern Romance947k WordsCompleted [The print edition of Love on Repeat is now available on major platforms, along with the audiobook of the same name] [A domineering, possessive man in a suit & a scheming beauty pretending to be sweet and obedient] (One-on-one, both leads are pure + forced pursuit + domineering and deranged male lead + intense push and pull + difference in status + going mad for love) Li Wanwan was with Rong Xingye for three years, staking everything on him, only to lose in the end. He mocked her for not knowi 9.2kReads9.1Score1.1kShelves
4. 54 炙 Burning Hot! 炙热沦陷！ Jun Buqi君不弃Modern Romance329k WordsCompleted (The print edition, titled Song of Sheng, is now available, and the online comic of the same name is complete.) [Flirty Romance]+ [Reborn School Life]+ [Mutual Healing]+ [Obsessive Sweet Romance] A striking, warm, and gentle girl with vivid features × a brooding, handsome, and rebellious young man Only when Shengge was dying did she learn that a boy had loved her with all his heart. The first time they met in her previous life, the carefree boy asked her, “Hey, new student, what's your name?” Sh 38kReads9.6Score4.9kShelves

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   A story of flirtatious romance, rebirth in a school setting, mutual redemption, and obsessive sweetness. The story revolves around Sheng Ge, a bright and gentle girl with striking features, and Zhou Ye, a brooding and roguish young man. In her past life, Sheng Ge only realized the depth of the young man's love for her before her death. Their first meeting was marked by the young man's carefree and irreverent nature, their connection stemming from their shared names. At the time, Sheng Ge disliked his frivolity. Reborn, Sheng Ge takes the initiative to approach him, and the young man pins her against a basketball hoop, leading to a nightly encounter with Sheng Ge. If the young man belongs to darkness, Sheng Ge is willing to go to hell with him.

5. 55 我 We Barely Know Each Other 我们真不熟 Anran MushroomAnran菌Modern Romance318k WordsCompleted A story about an utterly unremarkable girl who pretends to be sweet, winning over the school’s top student and heartthrob. The two secretly date while pretending they don’t know each other in front of the whole school... “You mean you and Jiang Cun don’t even know each other, and he just came up and picked you up to kiss you on the podium???” “...” 1.8kReads8.4Score141Shelves
6. 56 以 After Offering Herself to Settle His Debt, the Celibate Heir Can't Stop Kissing Her 以身抵债后，禁欲太子爷吻她上瘾 Flowers in Full Bloom花开正耀眼Modern Romance335k WordsCompleted [Love after marriage + powerful man bows to love + age gap + both pure + steady, slow-burn romance] Fang Ran got drunk and spent a night in passionate embraces with a stranger in a hotel bed. The next morning, she slipped away while he was still asleep. Later, Fang Ran crashed into a globally limited-edition luxury car. She went to discuss compensation with the owner, only to discover he was the stranger from that night. His true identity was Han Yanzhou, the prince of Haicheng. He demanded 13.1 8.4kReads—Score912Shelves

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   Fang Ran got drunk and spent the night passionately entangled with a strange man on a hotel bed. The next day, she slipped away before the man woke up. Later, Fang Ran crashed into a limited-edition luxury car. When Fang Ran confronted the owner about compensation, the owner turned out to be the stranger from that night—his real identity was Han Yanzhou, the heir to the Haicheng mansion. Demanded 13.14 Million yuan in compensation, Fang Ran frankly admitted she couldn't afford it. Han Yanzhou, with an ambiguous expression, lifted her chin, "Marry me, and the compensation and that night will be wiped clean." Aside from paying the debt with her body, Fang Ran had no choice. "Can we keep it a secret for now?" Han Yanzhou smiled, "Sure, but I have a condition too." "You must share a bed and have marital relations every night." Fang Ran blushed and bit her lip; such an obvious hint left her no right to refuse. * After the marriage, her unsuspecting best friend pointed at Han Yanzhou and warned Fang Ran, "He's allergic to women, stay away from him." The next second, Fang Ran was pinned against the steering wheel and kissed passionately by Han Yanzhou. Fang Ran asked doubtfully, "Are you really allergic to women?" Han Yanzhou smiled, "Yes, but I'm not allergic to you touching me." * Later, Fang Ran began her long "debt repayment journey," but the debt only seemed to grow. She owed him eight times for pleading for his sister. Thirty times for pleading for his bodyguard. Eighty times for pleading for his brother... The debt for car repairs wasn't even paid off yet, and now so many more debts had been added. Fang Ran broke down in tears, "This debt will never be paid off!" Han Yanzhou hugged her and comforted her, "Want to pay it off? It's simple, just give me a baby." (The last sentence is a separate, unrelated comment: "So beautiful.")

7. 57 楼 Moonlight Shines on the Pavilion 楼台月明 Gentle Scholar温柔文人Modern Romance474k WordsCompleted [Print edition signed] Jiang Yunxin had a close friend she'd grown up with. When they were eleven, an unexpected visitor came to her friend's house: her cousin, Leng Yizhi. Her friend said that even at such a young age, her cousin seemed detached from everything. He never showed happiness or sadness and hardly spoke at all. So her aunt announced that she'd pay him one yuan for every word he said. And so... “Cousin, what's your name?” “Cousin, what grade are you in?” “Cou...” After being bombarde 155.8kReads9.5Score31.2kShelves

   Reader note

   It's so cute, so cute, so cute! It's a childhood sweetheart story, and both the male and female leads were adorable as children—just cute little kids. It's not awkward to read at all.

8. 58 神 A Blessing from the Gods 神明的赐福 Peachy Oolong, Regular Sugar桃气乌龙正常糖Modern Romance241k WordsCompleted [The print edition is now available under the title "Where Light Falls"] Huo Songjin is the biggest villainous male supporting character in "Beloved in the Palm", a hit on the women's fiction charts. Just how bad is he? He wipes out the male lead's entire family, then forces him to choose between the female lead and his own mother aboard a cruise ship. This dangerous, obsessive man has such striking looks and such a tragic past that his fans can't help worrying over him, and end up loving him th 22.6kReads9.4Score2.7kShelves

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   You'll regret not watching this.

9. 59 重 Reborn and Awakened: This Time, I Won’t Be a Love-Struck Fool 重生觉醒，这次我不做恋爱脑 Xing Ci杏词Modern Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Both leads reborn + school life + gloomy, manipulative green-tea male lead + healing] Only after Lin Wu died did she learn that she was the villainess in a campus romance novel. Born into a wealthy family and blessed with a pretty face, she was still nothing more than a stepping stone in the sweet love story of the hero and heroine. Even though she and Xie Yanhui had grown up together and were engaged. Xie Yanhui only ever had eyes for the pure, poor Xia Ruoruo. Sadly, she was too obsessed to l 115.2kReads9.1Score22.9kShelves

   Reader note

   This is great; it has both family and romantic elements.

10. 60 我 I Saved the Entire Sect by Giving Up 我靠摆烂拯救了全宗门 The Princess Isn't Going Home公主不回家Ancient Romance1.9M WordsCompleted (The second physical volume is out) Ye Qiao woke up one day to find she had become the second senior sister, a tool character in a novel about a girl adored by everyone. In the novel, whenever the junior sister was in trouble, the second senior sister stepped in. If the junior sister wanted a divine artifact, the second senior sister fetched it. If the junior sister lacked a spiritual root, hers had to be dug out. Ye Qiao was at her breaking point. She fled the mountain in the middle of the nigh 217.1kReads9.6Score24.4kShelves

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    Ye Qiao, ensemble cast, no romantic pairing

11. 61 大 The Big Shot Reads Her Mind, Then Carries the Maid Straight to Bed 大佬读心后，直接扛起保姆扔在床 Tang Linmiao棠霖淼Modern Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Both Leads Have No Past Relationships + Pure Love + Mind Reading + Transmigrate into a Book + Kissing Addict] A lively, lustful little housekeeper vs. a pure-hearted, sickly villain (They get together incredibly fast!) She transmigrates into a dog-blood novel as a cannon-fodder housekeeper. The original owner disappeared after trying to climb into the villain's bed while he was dead. Looking at the handsome, sinister Shen Jin, she acts obedient on the surface, while internally going wild: [Ooh! 11.9kReads8.4Score933Shelves

    Reader note

    If it's not sweet, you get your money back! Super sweet!

12. 62 日 Drunk on the Road Home at Dusk 日暮醉归途 Mu Qiqi暮萋萋Ancient Romance2.2M WordsCompleted The cool, intelligent beauty Shui Qiaoyou, a general of the former dynasty, and the pure-hearted, reserved prince Chu Moli, a prince of the current dynasty Historical romance, no transmigration, no palace intrigue, no household drama, one-on-one romance, strong female lead. Shui Qiaoyou felt as though she’d merely fallen asleep. When she opened her eyes again, a hundred years had passed. Her homeland, family, and friends were like smoke, long since vanished into the river of time. Fate had left 13.4kReads9.1Score1.6kShelves

    Reader note

    I highly recommend this one, it's really good, you should watch it all!

13. 63 福 The Sweet and Beautiful Imperial Concubine: The Abstinent Fourth Prince Dotes on Her 福晋娇又美：禁欲四爷宠上瘾 Wan Bao妧宝Ancient Romance2.4M WordsCompleted [One devoted couple + sweet romance] Tong Jia Ning Chuge, the legitimate daughter of Longkodo, was getting married. But on her wedding day, a princess snatched her groom right off the street. The poor girl fell out of her bridal sedan and died on the spot! The woman protested, “I just got here, and a bunch of people are already laughing at me for being a discarded wife. I can’t stand for this!” Just as she was racking her brains for a way to put them in their place, an imperial edict from Empero 24.4kReads9.4Score2.4kShelves

    Reader note

    It's super good! I read it every day and finished it in three or four days. Now I'm in a reading slump again [crying].

14. 64 大 Awakening from a Great Dream 大夢初醒 You Zi Meng幽紫梦Modern Romance494k WordsCompleted Blurb One You can fall in love with someone in no time at all. Getting over them might take a long time, or it might happen in an instant. The moment Ye Lan Yi left with another woman, leaving her alone to give birth in the icy river, fifteen years of knowing each other and eight years of love became nothing but a grand dream. Ye Lan Yi, I don’t love you anymore. The night fades, and the dream ends. As the curtains rise and fall, an unfinished galaxy is reflected in her eyes, and a new dawn rise 90Reads—Score—Shelves

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    The female protagonist appears to cling to the male protagonist like a parasitic vine, suffering abuse from him and his family (on the surface, she's a burden brought in by the male protagonist's scumbag father). However, in reality, she's driven by a childhood connection with him (which he later lost), making him a beacon of hope in her heart. Furthermore, she uses every available person and event as a stepping stone on her path to revenge for her mother's death, relentlessly crushing her enemies like a wisteria vine. The story is about revenge, but it's more than just revenge; it carries a deeper, more complex message. The female protagonist is bold in love and hate, and very clear-headed. Among the many romance novels I've read, this one is rare—it doesn't rely on romantic rivalry or female-female competition to drive the story (there is superficial competition, but later developments reveal it's not genuine). When the male protagonist hurts her deeply (partly because she believes she's paid her debt), she leaves without hesitation. The male protagonist isn't truly evil either; his love is slightly forceful, but later plot twists reveal the cause and effect. Both the male and female protagonists possess endearing qualities that shine through the author's writing. It's not the kind of mindless, melodramatic protagonist plot with inexplicable love and hate; rather, the author skillfully weaves together cause and effect, creating a strong sense of plot twists and a romantic yet tragic sense of destiny. It's a well-written story with sweetness, angst, and healing moments. The author's writing is excellent, the novel is stylistically strong, and the characters are equally compelling. It has positive values, isn't just filler, and avoids the formulaic plots typical of Tomato's works. Whether you appreciate the author's excellent writing or the moving and healing story, this book is definitely worth reading. It's a book I reread when I'm looking for something to read. I especially love the author's exquisite prose and skillful use of literary techniques. Each reread brings new discoveries and appreciations. A truly talented author, currently my favorite author on Tomato's list. I love the style, the writing, the values, and the story itself.

15. 65 你 You Broke Off Our Engagement, So I’ll Dig Up Your Ancestors’ Graves 你退我婚，我掘你祖坟 Tao Ajiu逃阿酒Ancient Romance535k WordsCompleted 831Reads7.7Score109Shelves

    Reader note

    It's really good, I read every single word! [Shy]

16. 66 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
17. 67 多 Surely You Laugh at My Passion 多情应笑我 Jiu Xiaoqi酒小七Ancient Romance216k WordsCompleted Lin Fang has been disguised as a boy since childhood, and she can't help feeling helpless about it. Her household registration says she's male, so what can she do? But the secret she has sworn to protect is discovered by a young boy she accidentally rescues! Lin Fang thought she'd picked up a deadweight, but once the boy, Yun Weiming, regains his identity, she feels as if she's sitting on a mountain of gold. “Who would've thought! I've picked up all kinds of things before, but you're the most va 70.3kReads9.7Score9.3kShelves
18. 68 病 Spring Returns to the Branches of a Sick Tree 病树枝头又逢春 Sweet Melon甜甜的瓜Ancient Romance476k WordsCompleted [Print edition now available] Sang Nian accidentally climbs into the world of cultivation and becomes the vicious supporting female character who meets a tragic end in the book. System: Your mission is to marry the male supporting character, Xie Chenzhou, abuse him, humiliate him, and then get killed by him. Sang Nian: OK (brandishes little whip) (hits herself) (collapses with a thud) System: (silence) (stares at the sky) System: Mission changed. Win him over, or go mine coal. Sang Nian: (smiles 188.6kReads9.5Score25.6kShelves

    Reader note

    Both are great. The first book's family storyline was really touching, and the second book, with its ensemble cast, was also very moving. 😭

19. 69 佛 Prayer Beads Suppress a Hundred Ghosts, and the Cursed Star Finds Peace in His Remaining Years 佛珠镇百鬼，煞星渡余生 The Short-Tempered Houhou脾气暴躁的吼吼Ancient Romance654k WordsCompleted Everyone in Changling City knew that the eldest daughter of the Minister of Rites was born under an ill-fated star. She was sent to Nanchan Temple at birth and raised there for eighteen years. At the temple, they didn't pray to Buddha. They taught her how to catch ghosts and draw talismans. At first, her family still came to visit. Later, even her mother forgot to tell her about the birth of her youngest daughter. The young nobleman betrothed to her since childhood also turned around and asked 46.4kReads9.1Score6.4kShelves

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    (This is my second time reading this author's book. I was also very satisfied with the previous one, and it was definitely worth buying. This story features a clean slate, 1v1, with a romantic pairing. Note: it's not a female-centric story. The author's writing is truly amazing; almost every book has memorable quotes. Some storylines are touching, while others are despicable—the wicked get their just desserts, and the good are rewarded! There's also a life-and-death contract between the male and female leads, which made me cry so much! And there's a fantastic crossover! I love you, author! Please be kinder to Xie Dai and A Chu in the world! ꒦ິ^꒦ິ) Jiang Dusheng VS Xie Jinchen My name is Jiang Dusheng, the "Du" meaning to ferry the living and the dead, to ferry people and ghosts. I ferry all living beings through suffering, but not the wicked. My Buddha is merciful, but I… may not be so… "Jiang Dusheng…" He murmured her name, as if holding a bittersweet date in his mouth. "You save all beings, resolve their obsessions; all the injustices and sorrows of this world seem to be within your grasp." His voice was so low that only he could hear it: "Only..." "You do not save me, Xie Jinchen." These words contained no complaint, no accusation, only loneliness and self-mockery. Like a feather, it drifted to the deepest part of his heart, stirring ripples that unfurled, disturbing the emotions firmly sealed by reason. Ultimately, it returned to calm. Everyone in Changling City knew that the eldest daughter of the Minister of Rites was born with a curse, sent to Nanchan Temple at birth and raised there for eighteen years. The temple did not chant Buddhist scriptures, but taught ghost-catching and talisman-drawing. Her family initially inquired, but later her mother even forgot to inform her when she gave birth to her youngest daughter, and the prince she was betrothed to turned around and asked for her sister's hand in marriage. Her master waved his sleeve: "Disciple, your karmic entanglement—bah, your good fortune has come to an end—go down the mountain." Everyone laughed at the Minister's eldest daughter as a charlatan. Until the palace banquet, when a hundred ghosts roamed the night, and red lanterns turned to blood. Everyone saw the woman wielding a bone flute, its blade made of cinnabar, capable of sealing souls with a single stroke. From that moment on, the name Jiang Dusheng resounded throughout Changling City. That day, her younger sister rushed towards her, her eyes red with tears: "Sister..." Jiang Dusheng glanced at her indifferently: "I save the living, the dead, the afflicted, the souls, and all living beings, but I will not save brainless fools." She prided herself on being able to predict the future, yet she hadn't foreseen that jinx. She had originally intended to borrow his pure yang energy to prolong her life. On the night of her triumph, she packed her small bundle, ready to flee, but he trapped her before the cinnabar altar, his eyes filled with madness and obsession: "Jiang Dusheng, you save all living beings, can you—save me too?" "I came from the ashes, I do not seek Buddhahood, I only ask you to save me for the rest of my life." Later, when his robes were stained with blood, he whispered a desperate murmur in her ear: "Jiang Dusheng, you have calculated all the secrets of heaven, did you ever foresee that I would be your tribulation of love?" "If I cannot occupy a place in your heart, I am willing... To be a ghost for eternity, sealed by you." I am... A practitioner of both Buddhism and Taoism. The monk took the child, gazed at her for a moment, lost in thought, and then said after a long while: "This girl was born to undergo tribulation, either to save others or to save herself. This humble monk will name her Dusheng. May she overcome the calamities of this life, and also... To save others." The night wind blew, causing her white robes to flutter gently. "What I have lost is ultimately not mine; since it is not mine, why not let go?" She tilted her head slightly, gazing at the bright moon in the sky, her voice soft: "What does not belong to me, even if I once possessed it, will eventually be lost. And what truly belongs to me, no matter how many detours I take, will eventually arrive." At this moment, in a private room on the second floor of the teahouse, a pair of eyes had taken in everything that had just happened from beginning to end. Just as she was thinking, a deep voice came from beside her: "What's going on?" Jiang Dusheng subconsciously looked up, and the figure that came into view made her eyes flicker. With just one glance, it was as if a Buddhist bell was resonating deep within her consciousness. In a daze, she understood who the vague "karmic entanglement" and the so-called telepathic connection her master had mentioned before leaving the temple were referring to. Standing just a few steps away from him, Jiang Dusheng could clearly feel a vast purple aura, imbued with ineffable nobility, gathering towards her like a gentle warm current. She walked about seven or eight steps, but her steps involuntarily slowed down. Unable to suppress her curiosity any longer, she turned around as if possessed. A gentle breeze stirred, causing the silver threads embroidered on his dark sleeves to shimmer and a stray strand of hair to flutter against Jiang Dusheng's cheek. She looked at the man still standing there. "What... What's your name?" The man seemed completely unprepared for her question. He paused noticeably, a flicker of surprise in his eyes, before replying, "Xie Jinchen." The three words, uttered clearly from his lips, fell steadily into her ears like a whispered mantra. Jiang Dusheng received her answer. Without expression, she nodded slightly. This time, she didn't turn back; her figure quickly merged into the crowd and disappeared. Xie Jinchen remained silent. He simply stood with his hands behind his back, his gaze still fixed on the direction Jiang Dusheng had vanished, the string of jade beads on his fingers no longer moving. His thin lips were pressed tightly together as he stared at the now empty street corner, his eyes as deep and dark as the night. "Go and investigate," he finally spoke, his voice devoid of emotion, "which household does that young lady belong to?" "Yes." The guard obeyed and silently withdrew. He didn't believe her earlier ramblings at all, but he had keenly grasped the key point. She had something to ask for, something unique, and it was about him. This was his confidence in negotiating with her. She could use him, but she had to demonstrate real strength and sincerity. Jiang Dusheng understood his unspoken meaning. He didn't question the truth or the reasons, but rather keenly sensed that he had leverage. A hint of admiration flashed in Jiang Dusheng's eyes; this was the first intelligent person she had met since leaving the mountain. She loved dealing with intelligent people; it saved her a lot of trouble. A little further away at the Meng family's table, Madam Meng, though not able to see clearly due to her seat, immediately recognized that aloof figure in the crowd. A slight smile played on her lips as she murmured to herself, "This child, after all, is a pearl whose brilliance cannot be concealed." Her words were full of affection, as if she were watching her own junior finally find a discerning patron. Xie Jinchen, whose seat was slightly towards the front of the Xie family's residence, had been listlessly toying with his wine cup. Hearing the commotion, he raised his eyelids, his gaze passing through the crowd to land on the figure in pale purple. His cold, handsome brows twitched almost imperceptibly, then returned to their usual indifference, his fingers unconsciously rubbing the rim of the cup. Her gaze shifted, settling on Xie Jinchen's handsome profile. Yes, looking at this face made eating more pleasant. At that moment, Xie Jinchen, seated opposite Jiang Dusheng, was about to drink when he inadvertently glanced up, catching Jiang Dusheng's fleeting glance. Something seemed to stir in his cold eyes, like an almost invisible speck of dust settling on a frozen lake. His Adam's apple bobbed as he swallowed the wine in his cup, along with that inexplicable strange feeling. After doing so, she casually glanced across at the person opposite her, only to be surprised to find that one person remained unmoved. Xie Jinchen seemed even more arrogant than her, too lazy to even use any tricks, simply reclining lazily in his large chair, one hand on the armrest, the other still toying with the empty white jade wine cup. His eyelids were slightly lowered, his long eyelashes casting faint shadows on his pale skin, as if everything before him was irrelevant. The seat next to him, belonging to the Duke of Zhenguo, was empty; he seemed not to have attended the birthday banquet. Jiang Dusheng raised an eyebrow slightly; it seemed the current emperor was more lenient towards this young master than she had imagined. Jiang Dusheng stopped three steps away from Xie Jinchen. Her pale purple dress fluttered slightly in the chaotic air, and the vermilion mark on her forehead glowed as red as blood in the flickering lamplight. Xie Jinchen glanced at him sideways, speaking in a voice only the two of them could hear, "It seems there's no need to bother borrowing any more momentum." His deep voice held a rare hint of amusement. "Such opportunities are rare and precious." Jiang Dusheng's lips curved slightly. "I'm kind-hearted and lucky." Her eyes flashed quickly in his direction, her words fast and clear: "Don't stray too far from me." These words sounded like a warning, but they carried a deeper meaning only she understood. The closer Xie Jinchen got, the more abundant and vibrant the spiritual energy flowing around her became. Xie Jinchen didn't speak again, subtly taking a few steps back, implicitly bringing Jiang Dusheng's side and rear into his protective range. But that posture clearly said: You do your thing, I'll watch the rest. Just as this thought surfaced... A slightly cool voice almost brushed against her ear, carrying an elusive meaning: "Is it beautiful?" Xie Jinchen had sheathed his sword at some point and walked to Jiang Dusheng's side. Their robes brushed against each other, the edge of his dark sleeves almost touching her pale purple cuffs. Jiang Dusheng could even faintly smell his cool aura, strangely enveloping her in the lingering yin energy and Buddhist light of the hall. He still had that languid and aloof demeanor, but now he slightly turned his head and looked down at Jiang Dusheng, his crystal-clear eyes reflecting only her, his eyebrows slightly raised, but his eyes devoid of warmth. Xie Jinchen's question was abrupt and his tone was indifferent, but Jiang Dusheng inexplicably felt that there was something else hidden in his words. She withdrew her gaze from Shi Qinglian, composed herself, and gave the Imperial Preceptor another objective look, commenting softly, "His name suits him perfectly." The name Qinglian was fitting for his ethereal (qi zhi - refined and elegant demeanor). Hearing this, Xie Jinchen beside her gave a barely audible hum, so soft that Jiang Dusheng almost mistook it for her imagination. A playful glint flashed in Xie Jinchen's eyes. He also lowered his voice, his thin lips barely moving: "Want to know?" Jiang Dusheng nodded. Then, Xie Jinchen's thin lips parted slightly, and amidst the gradually subsiding clamor of the hall, he clearly uttered four words: "I won't tell you." Jiang Dusheng: "..." Jiang Dusheng scooped a spoonful of porridge and put it in her mouth, then turned to Xie Jinchen, asking, "You... Can leave Changling for so long at will?" As far as she knew, the Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review was no idle position. Xie Jinchen put down his chopsticks, took a cloth, and wiped his lips, his movements unhurried. He looked up at Jiang Dusheng, his tone calm, "I've asked His Majesty for leave." "Oh? What reason could His Majesty have given you permission to leave Changling?" Jiang Dusheng raised an eyebrow, somewhat curious. Xie Jinchen's expression remained unchanged, his thin lips parted slightly, but the words he uttered almost made Jiang Dusheng spit out her porridge: "I said, I've recently taken a liking to a woman, but unfortunately, my feelings are unrequited." "My heart is troubled, I'm heartbroken, and I need to leave Changling to clear my mind, lest I be reminded of her and neglect my official duties." "Cough! Cough cough cough..." Jiang Dusheng coughed several times from the porridge, her cheeks slightly flushed, whether from choking or something else, she didn't know. She looked at Xie Jinchen, only to see his composed expression. Xie Jinchen leisurely reached out and pushed a glass of water in front of her, a glint of light flashing in his eyes, too quick to catch. Hearing this, Jiang Dusheng was about to say something when Xie Jinchen suddenly turned his head, his gaze fixed on her face. "Jiang Dusheng." This was the first time he had called her so solemnly. Jiang Dusheng's heart stirred slightly as she met his unfathomable eyes. "What is it?" Xie Jinchen's gaze seemed to pass over her, yet also seemed to fall upon her. His voice was calm and unwavering. "I'll let you off the ship now. You can go. I'll have my guards escort you back." He paused, then added, "Don't worry, I'll still come to find you on the fifteenth of every month." Even Wang Dazhuang was stunned by these words, his face showing bewilderment. Why were they suddenly parting ways? Jiang Dusheng raised an eyebrow, took two steps forward, and stood directly in front of Xie Jinchen, only half a step between them. He was tall and imposing, and Jiang Dusheng had to tilt her head slightly to meet his gaze. The sunlight cast a hazy silhouette on his face. "Let me off the ship?" She repeated, her tone playful, yet her eyes were clear and piercing. "Xie Jinchen, do you think my abilities are inferior to those demons and monsters under your father's command?" "Or do you think... I, Jiang Dusheng, am the kind of person who would withdraw to protect myself if things went wrong?" There was one more thing she didn't say—their fates were already firmly intertwined, and even if he wanted to sever them, he couldn't. Xie Jinchen didn't answer immediately, but simply looked at her quietly. There was no fear or hesitation in her eyes, only displeasure at being questioned. A gentle breeze stirred her hair and clothes, making her figure appear slender, yet her back was ramrod straight, as if nothing could bend her. After a long while, his Adam's apple bobbed slightly, and his voice was extremely low, almost audible only to the two of them, as if each word had been carefully weighed: "I'll ask you one last time. Jiang Dusheng, do you want to get off the ship?" Jiang Dusheng, I'm letting you off the ship now. Go. Jiang Dusheng suddenly raised her hand and rubbed her earlobe with her fingertips, the gesture carrying a hint of disdain. Then, she turned around decisively, walking towards the inn while slowly saying in a voice loud enough for those behind her to hear: "Dazhuang, did you see that? This is what you call having a decent-looking face, but unfortunately, your ears and brain aren't very good. You can't listen to what I say, and you can't understand things." She stopped, turned half her face to the side, and glanced at the motionless figure out of the corner of her eye: "Stay away from people like this in the future, lest you catch this inability to understand human language." Xie Jinchen, standing in place, watched the two figures' backs, and the cold, icy expression on his face seemed to melt away slightly. The corners of his lips curved upwards slightly. The smile was fleeting, so quick that it seemed like an illusion. Xie Jinchen's gaze fell on Jiang Dusheng's slightly pale profile, and his brows furrowed. He raised his hand and extended it towards Jiang Dusheng, palm up. However, Jiang Dusheng seemed completely oblivious to the hand beside her. Not only did she not respond, but she also seemed to deliberately avoid it, turning her head further away and focusing her gaze on the kneeling Zhou Mama. She didn't even spare a glance for the hand so close to her. Her posture was cold and resolute, carrying an air of keeping everyone at arm's length. Seeing this, Xie Jinchen's thin lips pressed into a straight line, his eyes darkening, but he didn't retract his outstretched hand, stubbornly keeping it hovering beside her. Xie Jinchen didn't immediately let go of her hand. Instead, he gently helped her sit up, his voice calm, "You tricked Wang Dazhuang away, and then walked in openly." Jiang Dusheng: "..." Before she could react, Xie Jinchen suddenly spoke again, his voice even lower than before, his gaze fixed intently on her: "Jiang Dusheng, I'm sorry." He paused, his Adam's apple bobbing slightly, "That night, I shouldn't have said those hurtful things." His gaze didn't waver, but instead focused even more intently into her eyes, as if to make sure she heard every word: "I should have known that you were never firmly chosen by the Jiang family, which is why you cherish those who are part of your circle, both the people and the ghosts." His voice softened, analytical yet strangely not offensive, "Even knowing the road ahead was dangerous, even if reason told you to weigh the pros and cons, you wouldn't easily abandon me to face it alone." "It's not because you're stupid, nor because you need the purple aura within me, but because deep down, you don't want to become like the Jiang family, weighing everything, scheming at every turn, weighing loyalty and human nature on a scale, right?" Jiang Dusheng lowered her eyes, her long eyelashes casting soft shadows beneath them, concealing any emotions that might be revealed. She pursed her lips, her jawline slightly tense, and remained silent. But something seemed to have gently struck her heart. That's why she said she hated... Being around smart people. Especially those who seemed cold and taciturn, yet possessed astonishing insight, always able to pierce through all pretenses and excuses. Xie Jinchen looked at her turned face and tightly pursed lips. He held her hand tightly, his fingertips unconsciously stroking the back of her hand, as if soothing her: "I'm sorry, I was wrong." His voice was low and slightly hoarse, pleading, like a feather brushing against her eardrum, "... So, Jiang Dusheng, please don't ignore me." Xie Jinchen's tone and words were so different from his usual image that Jiang Dusheng felt a slight heat on the back of her hand as he stroked it, and her ears inexplicably warmed as well. She couldn't help but raise her other hand to rub her inexplicably itchy earlobe, trying to dispel the strange feeling. She wanted to pull her hand back, but Xie Jinchen seemed to have expected it, not only not loosening his grip but tightening it slightly. Jiang Dusheng was at a loss in this strange atmosphere, her heart like a fluttering sparrow, and for a moment she didn't know what to say to break the heart-pounding stalemate. "Jiang Dusheng, if one day…" He paused slightly, "you're willing to exchange your true heart for mine, then I'd be happy to be your antidote for life." Xie Jinchen turned away, no longer looking at Xie Dai, leaving only the words, "Father, your weakness is my mother. And my weakness…" He paused, his voice lowering, yet clear enough to make one's heart tremble, "is her, and all these… tangled things around her." "If you still acknowledge me as your son," he raised his eyes, his gaze unfathomable, "don't touch her. And don't touch her people." After hesitating for a long time, she looked up at his profile, "Xie Jinchen, although I know it's presumptuous…" She paused, but still spoke, "Could I hold you like I did last night while we slept? It's so cold." Silence spread through the quiet room, as if even the crackling of the candlelight had been swallowed up, the air heavy and oppressive. Xie Jinchen didn't turn around, but slowly spoke, his voice exceptionally clear in the darkness, "Jiang Dusheng, you Buddhists value compassion, the salvation of all beings, and giving without expecting anything in return." His tone was calm, yet each word struck like a chisel, hitting her heart. "But I am not a Buddha; I am merely one of the masses." Xie Jinchen turned around, gazing into Jiang Dusheng's eyes in the dim light. Those once cool and aloof peach blossom eyes now churned with burning emotions: "Jiang Dusheng, there is no one in the world like you, who only reaps the benefits and stirs hearts, yet never thinks of taking responsibility." His words were like a red-hot iron, unexpectedly searing the softest part of her heart. Jiang Dusheng felt a sudden, violent throbbing in her chest, a strange, throbbing pain that made her breath catch in her throat. She subconsciously frowned, raising her hand to her chest. The first thought that popped into her mind was an absurd worry: Could it be that she really had some incurable disease? This heartbeat... Is too strange! "If I hadn't met you..." Xie Jinchen looked up, gazing into Jiang Dusheng's clear eyes, "Perhaps in a few years, if I still couldn't find my mother's remains, I might really take the risk again, even if it meant falling into the demonic path, just to give my mother freedom and peace." His voice softened, carrying a nonchalant tone, "Anyway, this seemingly prosperous and glamorous world, which is actually cold and hypocritical, has already made me somewhat weary." As soon as he finished speaking, he saw Jiang Dusheng's face turn cold at a visible speed, her lips pressed into a straight line. Xie Jinchen's heart skipped a beat, realizing something was wrong. He quickly tried to smooth things over, softening his tone, "However—" he drawled, observing her expression, "I was just lucky to have met you. Suddenly, this seemingly unsolvable deadlock seems to have found a crack." "These repetitive, tedious days," a genuine warmth seeped into his voice, "suddenly become interesting again. Suddenly, I don't really want to head towards that worst possible ending." Sure enough, Jiang Dusheng's tense expression eased slightly. Although she still didn't smile, the coldness in her eyes subsided somewhat. She frowned, pondered for a moment, and asked a crucial question: "Then why don't you take advantage of your position as heir to recruit some truly capable righteous individuals and seek the orthodox path?" When she spoke again, her voice carried a solemn tone: "Xie Jinchen, Jiang Dusheng. The karma here has been cleared, and the debts of gratitude have been repaid. However, our meeting is predestined. Seeing your intertwined destinies and unwavering love, I hereby bestow this advice:" Shen Yuepo slightly raised her hand, tiny specks of light scattering from her fingertips, merging into the halo enveloping the two. Her voice was ethereal and solemn, as if resonating with the laws of reincarnation: "Within the ashes lies dust, dust and ashes reignite, the fire of calamity forges true gold." "Beyond the crossing lies life, life crosses the cycle of reincarnation, the weak water carries the spirit boat." "May you two, in the years to come—" "Having traversed the myriad tribulations of the mortal world, you can still hold hands." "Having traversed the ten directions of the netherworld, your initial hearts remain unchanged." "Where love resides, even separated by mountains and seas, souls are bound together;" "Where fate binds, though life and death are experienced, the threads of destiny intertwine." "This blessing is etched in the cycle of reincarnation, engraved in the soul pact." The words of blessing seeped into the depths of their souls along with the specks of light, transforming into an incredibly resilient protective mark before disappearing. This wasn't granting them immense power, but rather adding a touch of blessing from the Netherworld Empress to their already profound bond and ties. Perhaps it would guide them to a glimmer of hope in a crucial moment in the future, even in dire straits. The blessing was complete, and the halo surrounding them gradually dissipated, eventually transforming into tiny specks of light that seeped into their bodies. Love arises without warning, and deepens with time. Some stirrings of the heart, like silent snowflakes, quietly fill the heart. Some paths walked side-by-side, moments of life and death shared, had already tightly intertwined their destinies, inexplicable and inexplicable. Xie Jinchen tilted his head back and drank the wine in his cup again. This time, there was no burning sensation, but rather a lingering sweetness. "She's fine." In the end, he uttered only these three words, yet they weighed a thousand pounds. The master of ceremonies announced loudly, "First bow to Heaven and Earth!" Xie Jinchen and Jiang Dusheng turned towards the door, bowing deeply to Heaven and Earth. "Second bow to the elders!" The two turned to face Huiming and Xuanji Zhenren, who sat regally in the hall. Xie Jinchen's expression was solemn, and although Jiang Dusheng couldn't see, his movements were also respectful. They both bowed deeply. This bow was to express their gratitude for being raised and taught. Although not blood relatives, Huiming and Xuanji Zhenren had saved Jiang Dusheng's life, taught him, and raised him, treating him like a father and grandfather. They also owed Xie Jinchen a debt of gratitude. This bow came from the bottom of their hearts, filled with gratitude. Huiming and Xuanji Zhenren looked at the couple before them, their feelings complex and indescribable. Huiming's eyes held the complex emotion of his carefully nurtured cabbage finally being devoured by the most outstanding pig; his lips twitched, a mixture of sorrow and joy. Xuanji Zhenren, on the other hand, felt more of a sense of relief at finally marrying off his stubborn disciple. But regardless, their eyes were filled with heartfelt joy. They both nodded slightly, accepting the greeting. "Husband and wife bow to each other!" Xie Jinchen and Jiang Dusheng stood facing each other, a step apart, connected by a red silk ribbon. Through the red veil, Jiang Dusheng could vaguely see Xie Jinchen's indistinct outline and his slightly tense jawline. It was an unconscious gesture he made when nervous. Jiang Dusheng's heart was gently touched, and she couldn't help but smile, a tender smile blooming in her cool eyes. Unfortunately, it was hidden by the veil, and no one could see it. The two slowly bowed, bowing to each other. Their foreheads almost touched, the red silk ribbon swaying gently between them. Xie Dai, disguised and standing in the crowd, saw this scene, a relieved smile appearing on his face. Then, he turned and withdrew from the crowd. Xie Jinchen turned his head, looking at her profile so close to his, and spoke softly, his voice slightly hoarse from suppressing his emotions: "Yes, I was stunned." He paused, then added with utmost seriousness, "I saw the most beautiful woman in the world." Such direct and passionate words of love made Jiang Dusheng's heart skip a beat, and her ears burned. She subconsciously turned to the side, cupped Xie Jinchen's face in her hands, and looked closely, wanting to confirm whether he was talking nonsense because he had been drinking. Xie Jinchen waved away the servants who wanted to follow, and he and Jiang Dusheng, like the most ordinary couple, walked slowly out of the mansion. The moonlight and lamplight stretched their shadows long, leaning against each other.

20. 70 看 Look! The Divine Lord Is Spending Her Entire Fortune on a Black Lotus 看！神主她倾家荡产养黑莲 Watching Lantern Flowers on Horseback走马看灯花Ancient Romance456k WordsCompleted [Complete; Strong Female Lead; Cool and Aloof; Decisive and Ruthless] On their wedding night, a drunken young woman pins a young man against the wall. His eyes are red at the corners and misty with tears; her grip has left his wrist red. He murmurs, “That hurts...” The eldest princess of the Fengqi Divine Kingdom has the best older brother in the world, the most upright friends, the most devoted lover, and the most loyal subordinates. There's always a young man by her side. He has an innocent, 4.1kReads9.3Score531Shelves

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    🌿🌿🥪🥪On their wedding night, the young man was pinned against the wall by the drunken girl, his eyes red and blurry with tears, his wrists bruised from being squeezed. He whispered, "It hurts..." Xing Nie, the eldest princess of the Fengqi Divine Kingdom, possessed the best brother, the most upright friends, the most worthy lover to protect, and the most loyal subordinates in the world. She had dominated the upper divine realm for two thousand years, but due to making too many enemies, she was besieged and fell into a spatial turbulence, descending to the lower world—Linzhou Continent. Here, she saved a little girl, only to be repaid with ingratitude, so she turned around and sent the girl back to the jaws of a demon beast. Xing Nie was powerful and decisive; whether saving or killing, it was all a matter of a single thought. A young man often accompanied her. The young man had an innocent-looking face, yet he did things that deeply wounded people. After being taken advantage of, he was determined to marry himself off. The boy's father asked, "When will Xingnie marry you?" The boy replied, "I don't know." His mother complained, "Useless thing."

21. 71 过 Guo Fu: A Hero’s Shadow 过芙侠影 Qi Le七乐Female-Channel Fanfiction384k WordsOngoing In the martial world of The Return of the Condor Heroes, the feelings Yang Guo and Guo Fu never got to share have always been an unresolved regret in my heart. Guo Fu grew up with the brilliant Huang Rong, the supremely powerful Guo Jing, and the peerless master Huang Yaoshi as her parents and grandfather to back her up. So she turned out straightforward and a little spoiled, but she never failed to do what was right. Of course, she inherited that from her father. They're both lovable blockheads 983Reads—Score101Shelves

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    A sweet romance novel set in the heart of the story, featuring two strong characters!

22. 72 神 The Divine Realm Shatters: I Return to Earth to Cultivate Immortality Again 神境破碎：我回地球重修成仙 Mad Dragon Shining Across the Nine Skies狂龙耀九霄Urban164k WordsCompleted The Divine Realm shattered, and the gods fell silent! A once-mighty Void-Shattering Divine Venerable returns to Earth in the body of his nineteen-year-old self. Hell from the start: his father is gravely wounded and near death, loan sharks are at the door demanding his life, his special recruitment slot has been stolen, his childhood friend betrays him, and the goddess he admires humiliates him. Everyone sees him as a penniless failure, unaware that a timeless Divine Venerable lies hidden within 22Reads—Score—Shelves

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    It's not only in my bookshelf, it's also the only one!

23. 73 大 Great Tang's Number One Menace 大唐第一祸害 The Song Is Not Yet Finished一曲未完Historical2.3M WordsCompleted His Majesty Li Er was furious. “My machine-gun company has been lured away by that little menace again?!” A minister replied carefully, “Your Majesty, the Japanese envoy was a month behind on his liquor tab at Wangfujing, so the Crown Prince… the Crown Prince just…” Li Er looked disdainful. “Nonsense! Japan is a friendly neighbor of our Great Tang. They’re only a little behind on payment. Would he really go that far?” The minister answered cautiously, “Your Majesty… the debt is 108,000 strings o 46.5kReads8.4Score3.3kShelves

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    "The Number One Scourge of the Tang Dynasty" is now complete (2 million+ words). It's a book I wrote myself, and I think it's alright. I'll try recommending it. [Heart emojis]

24. 74 厉 President Li, Be Gentle! 厉总，轻点宠！ Wenwen W温温WModern Romance388k WordsCompleted A cool, rational secretary meets a reserved, steady CEO. The first time they meet, she hitches a ride in his car. The next time, she becomes his secretary. With each encounter, he falls deeper, and she gradually opens her heart. Feelings had already taken root and were growing wildly before either of them knew it... “Li Shiyan, I'm sorry I wasn't by your side sooner, so you wouldn't have had to face all those joys and sorrows alone.” “From now on, I'll always be part of your life. Li Sihan's ar 48.7kReads—Score5.2kShelves

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    This is the pinnacle of romance novels!

25. 75 丑 Ugly Duckling! Extra! The Big Shots Take Her Home 丑小鸭！路人甲！大佬们抱她回家 Green Falcon青鹫Modern Romance654k WordsCompleted [Face-slapping satisfaction] [Everyone’s darling, universally adored] [Clever heroine; CP with Sheng Yuxiao after she comes of age] Li Xiaoya was born in a poor mountain village. Her mother died when she was three, and her father ran off with his lover. When she was seven, the crew of the show Life Swap came to the village and picked Li Xiaoya at first sight. But when filming began, they suddenly replaced her with the village chief’s granddaughter. The village chief’s granddaughter later went to 140.5kReads9.6Score21.6kShelves
26. 76 蓄 A Deliberate Swap of Fiancés 蓄意换婚 San Chen Yue叁辰月Modern Romance324k WordsCompleted [Steady, protective, powerful man + fragile yet strong little fox] [Love at first sight + deliberate bride swap + coaxed whirlwind marriage + age gap + both inexperienced in love] [A guiding lover + a little angst, lots of sweetness + devoted and exclusive love + a slow, steady romance] When her younger aunt ran away from her arranged marriage, the head of the Yun family had to choose a new candidate for the alliance. With her psychological condition, Ruan Qingsui was naturally not on the list. 18.1kReads9.3Score1.9kShelves

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    I absolutely love the male lead's unwavering devotion. The fatherly character is vivid and three-dimensional. The story begins with love at first sight, followed by emotional turmoil and heartwarming moments that make for an excellent viewing experience.

27. 77 心 My Heart Flutters! There's a Beam of Moonlight in His Eyes 心动！他眼里有一束月光 Three Lives, Three Three叁生三三Modern Romance599k WordsCompleted [Signed for print publication] [Rebirth + School Life + Healing + Inspirational] Gu Hanzhang is reborn, returning to the beginning of her dark life. In her previous life, a devil set his sights on her and imprisoned her in a gilded cage where sunlight never reached, making her his plaything. Back then, she thought it would be worth it if sacrificing herself meant the people around her could live well. But in the end, she could never see her family again while they were alive; her mentor died in 30.2kReads9.5Score3.9kShelves

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    This is the second time I've recommended this book!! It's a unique rebirth novel that doesn't follow any clichés! The plot is really good, full of content, and the theme is very fresh. If you're interested, you should definitely check it out. I can only say the author is really talented!

28. 78 先 Marriage Before Love: Marrying Into a Wealthy Family With a Miniature Version of the Big Shot 先婚后爱：抱着缩小版大佬嫁豪门 This Palace Is Very Elegant本宫很优雅的Modern Romance2.2M WordsOngoing [Both the male and female leads are each other’s one and only] Zhou Yi is a young manager at a baby-products store. One day, someone suddenly hands her a contract and asks her to work as a nanny, caring for an infant. The pay is exceptionally high: fifty thousand a month. Thinking of her grandmother’s illness, Zhou Yi agrees and becomes a young, live-in nanny dedicated to caring for the baby. Then one day, the child’s father hands her another contract and says, “Marry me, and I’ll pay you an ann 2.2kReads8.5Score103Shelves

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    This one is really good!

29. 79 墨 Sweet Potatoes Stewed in Ink 墨汁炖红薯 Li Liangliang凉凉李Modern Romance404k WordsCompleted [Brooding, possessive man + warm and healing romance + sweet enough to make you feel like an auntie] He suffers from severe depression and has been rescued after three suicide attempts. He fears crowds and hates the sunlight. All he wants is to hide in his dark world until the day he can finally be free. But that changed when he followed the family driver to the countryside. “Pig, want a sweet potato?” “Good, mean chicken.” “Ah, that goose bit me!” He stared wide-eyed in fright and turned to run 4.4kReads9.2Score491Shelves

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    It's really super beautiful.

30. 80 眼 A Mole Beneath the Eye 眼下痣 Light on Paper纸上光颖Modern Romance288k WordsCompleted [Sweet Youthful Romance | Love at First Sight | Both Are Each Other’s First | Male Lead from a Powerful Family | Light Urban Setting] [Proud, urbane young heir vs. cool, breathtaking heroine] Zhu Xingye has a top-tier family background, top-tier skills, and top-tier looks. He’s Peking University’s “top man,” and his only flaw is that he’s incredibly hard to win over. The first time she sees him, he rides his heavy motorcycle past the graceful young woman sitting beneath a tree, focused on her sk 18.1kReads8.7Score2.3kShelves

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    The first book was so sweet I can't forget it; the second book was so bittersweet I cried and I can't forget it...

31. 81 宫 Mrs. Gong Has Long Since Given Up on You 宫太太早就不要你了 Light on Paper纸上光颖Modern Romance212k WordsCompleted [Top-tier power and privilege + both leads have no past relationships + groveling pursuit + heroine's growth + powerful man humbles himself + one-on-one romance] At twenty, Di Xingran thought that liking someone, being liked in return, and naturally getting married and staying together was how life worked. Only later did she learn that marriage could have nothing to do with love, and happen simply because she “met the requirements.” She was a gifted engineer, but her talent was obscured by preju 167Reads—Score—Shelves
32. 82 灰 The Gray Lotus 灰莲花 Clouds of Rough Noodles Again又见糙面云Modern Romance819k WordsCompleted [A textbook case of realist business warfare + a deeply romantic, top-tier intellectual romance] The world has gone mad. A top-tier rich, handsome young heir is forced to compete with his wealthy wife for a lover... “If she likes me and I like her too, then we’ll each have to prove ourselves.” The male lead is loaded with resources and comes with every advantage, while the female lead has brains and beauty and rises from humble beginnings. A textbook case of realist business warfare, arranged fa 36.4kReads9.4Score4.3kShelves

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    A treat for seasoned readers! This is the pinnacle of contemporary romance novels, with incredibly engaging business battles and romance. Not suitable for beginners or younger readers, but perfect for sophisticated and experienced readers. The writing is superb. I'm currently looking for a replacement. Please recommend it to me if you have any recommendations, as it's hard to quit.

33. 83 绾 I'm Wanwan, Not Wanwan: We're All Reborn, So Why Should I Keep Indulging You? 绾绾不是晚晚：都重生了谁还惯你 Zi Wei He子薇河Ancient Romance1.1M WordsOngoing [Soul Swap] [Face-Slapping] [Spatial Spirit Spring] [Ensemble Cast] [Fantasy] On her wedding day, Shen Wanwan is brutally murdered, pierced through the heart by a blade. Her soul follows her body downstream along the river. Meanwhile, Pei Wanning, trying to escape a ghost marriage to the Prince of Qin, jumps into the river to fake her death, only to actually drown. A thousand miles away, their souls meet on a riverbank. Shen Wanwan is horrified. “...Are you human or a ghost?” Pei Wanning can't h 31.3kReads8.9Score3.1kShelves

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    Wanwan is not Wanwan. The plot is simply amazing! The concept of soul swapping, rebirth, and ruthlessly slapping the faces of villains is really novel. It's a hilarious and satisfying story of face-slapping. Wanwan and Wanwan team up to take down the villains, and everyone goes crazy, completely lost. It's truly eye-opening and has me smiling like a proud aunt the whole time.

34. 84 年 Older Men!! A Ferrari Is Still a Ferrari, Even When It’s Old 年上！！法拉利老了依然是法拉利 Loves Big Tomatoes Most最爱大番茄16k WordsCompleted Older woman!! A Ferrari is still a Ferrari, even when it's old. 31.4kReads—Score448Shelves

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    This book is excellent; it has 1.8 Million readers.

35. 85 狂 Madly in Love with Her 狂恋她 I Arrived, But Spring Was Gone CC偏我来时不逢春CCModern Romance300k WordsCompleted This is a heartwarming story. After a car accident takes their parents’ lives, fate binds the two of them tightly together with its red thread... [A resilient, long-suffering little white flower vs. a carefree, roguish street punk, happy ending] 535Reads—Score114Shelves

    Reader note

    After reading the latest chapter, I realized that some people are truly born to love. Zhou Xiao, how can you be so touching? Someone who was a troublemaker since childhood, someone who was fearless all the time, actually shed tears secretly while sleeping in Jiangnan [crying][crying][crying][crying][crying][crying] I really can't take it anymore [crying][crying][crying]

36. 86 姐 Her Sister-Obsessed Boyfriend, Her Darling Little Sister, and the Breakup That's Always Looming: What a Mess 姐控的妹宝，随时被分手的他，惨 Qiong Yu on the Branch琼予枝头Modern Romance327k WordsCompleted Complete [Sister-Con + Devoted Couple + Sweet Romance + Love That Grows Over Time] Sui Mo was raised by her older sister, Sui Yuan, and is utterly devoted to her. But even so, she secretly harbors a years-long crush on her sister’s suitor, Song Qingci, the boy next door who grew up with them. Only when her sister agrees to a contract marriage with Jiang Yanli, Kyoto’s most powerful heir, to save her company does Sui Mo finally confess her feelings. When Sui Yuan finds out, she says little at the 13kReads8.8Score1.3kShelves
37. 87 你 You Scold Me, and I Behave 你一凶我就乖了 There's a Cat Under the Tree树下有只猫Modern Romance261k WordsCompleted A dazzling, guileless girl vs. a sharp-witted, handsome top student with a wicked streak On the day Peking University began its new term, Lu Yansheng met Lin Qingwu at the bus stop outside the campus gate. She wore a cropped top that showed off her waist, her long pink hair flowing in the sunlight. Frowning, she raised a hand to shield her eyes from the sun and lowered her head to put in her earbuds. She looked lazy and impatient. For a long time afterward, Lu Yansheng thought of her as a deli 715Reads8.7Score101Shelves
38. 88 爹 The Overwhelmingly Charming Daddy-Type Tycoon Leaves His Little Princess Flustered 爹系大佬太撩人小公主招架不住啦 Qingqing Is Rude卿卿无礼Modern Romance323k WordsCompleted [A sweet, resilient little princess × a roguish, flirtatious daddy-type powerhouse] [Ancient soul in the modern world + both virgins + age gap + plot-driven + devoted husband] When her country fell, Jiang Qie threw herself from the city wall in despair, sacrificing her life for her homeland. But can someone tell Jiang Qie why, when she clearly died, she has woken up in this strange place? And why has she run into a lecherous rogue who is both wicked and irresistibly charming?! The man wrapped an 3.4kReads9.2Score494Shelves
39. 89 惊 What a Shock! The Sultry Beauty Sets Her Sights on President Gu 惊！妩媚尤物强撩顾总 Sweet-Bitten Chestnut甜咬栗子Modern Romance250k WordsCompleted [Untamed, abstinent heartthrob X glamorous, alluring supermodel] [Both virgins + love at first sight + mutual push and pull] Alluring and sensual, with a pair of stunningly beautiful, foxlike eyes. That was Gu Ye’s first impression of Rong Yi. Gu Ye, thirty years old, is the founder of G&Y Wilderness magazine and a born rebel with a wild streak. He turned down the family business to pursue photography and founded his own magazine, which has since become famous far and wide. The black tattoo ben 14.7kReads9.3Score1.4kShelves
40. 90 婚 Flirting After Marriage 婚后撩吻 A Piece of Sticky Rice Cake一块糖粘糕Modern Romance320k WordsCompleted [Scheming charmer x gentle, sickly blind woman] [Marriage first, love later + devoted sweet romance + secret identity revealed + 100% sweetness] The first time they meet. Her blind date says, “Sorry, I have no plans to date or get married.” Ming Ruo quietly says, “Okay.” The second time they meet. Her blind date says, “Would you like to have dinner with me?” Ming Ruo nods in surprise. The third time they meet. Her blind date says, “Would you marry me?” Ming Ruo: “...Huh?” - Ming Ruo and her blin 22.5kReads9.4Score3kShelves
41. 91 娇 The Delicate Beauty Wants a Hug, and Ninth Master Xie Kneels to Coax Her 娇软美人要抱抱，谢九爷下跪哄她 A Piece of Sticky Rice Cake一块糖粘糕Modern Romance515k WordsCompleted A composed, cold-hearted man in power X a sweet, flirtatious, airheaded beauty "Both are each other's first love + Eight-year age gap + Sweet, alluring romance + Not a strong female lead" Yu Jinghua was raised in luxury. With skin like ice and jade, she was charming and alluring. She had planned to seduce the young master of the Xie family to ease her family's crisis. Instead, by a twist of fate, she fell into the arms of the young master's “dad.” From then on, the peony had a branch to lean on. 28.3kReads9.4Score4.6kShelves
42. 92 娇 Sweet Peony, Tease Him Gently: The Villainous Boss Is Weak in the Knees 娇娇芍药轻点撩，反派大佬酥麻了 Little Fish Is a Bit Sleepy小鱼有点困Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Full-cast audio drama now available] Flirtatious, sweet beauty × scheming, abstinent powerhouse [quick transmigration + devoted couples + fixed pairing + pampering + childbirth] Xie Yiqing is a little peony spirit who grew on the Tianshan Mountains. After cultivating for over a hundred years and taking human form, she is bound by a childbirth System that falls from the sky and forced to travel through countless small worlds to complete missions. Story One: [Bewitching Princess vs. Powerful Rege 12.9kReads9.0Score1.2kShelves
43. 93 电 Elevator Survival: My Talent Is Growing Special Mushrooms 电梯求生：我的天赋是长特殊蘑菇 I Said My Head Is Empty我说我脑袋空Sci-Fi & Apocalypse769k WordsOngoing (Not many ratings yet. If you like the story, please give it a five-star review. Thanks~) [Game invasion + elevator survival + no CP + stockpiling + infinite flow + farming + instance worlds + female-oriented power fantasy] An elevator survival game invades, and everyone transmigrates into a survival game. Each floor of the elevator is a separate instance world. Players must survive in countless worlds, complete missions, and earn points. From the start, she draws the talent: The Girl Who Grows 44.3kReads7.6Score11.8kShelves
44. 94 玉 Jade Lock, Glorious Love: The Wife-Lord's Beloved Husband 玉锁昭华：妻主的掌心夫 Writer Majic作家majicAncient Romance687k WordsOngoing [Matriarchal society + confinement + obsessive devotion + stealing a spouse + political scheming + sorcery] In the Zhaoyue Dynasty, women held power, while men were subordinate. Su Yuai, the legitimate son of the Su family, was once a prestigious prince’s betrothed. But after a power struggle plunged the realm into war, he fell from a cliff and lost his memory. When he opened his eyes again, he was Chunliu, a courtesan whose price was set by others. Just as he had lost all hope, the beggar gi 1.1kReads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A book I've been reading for a long time

45. 95 鱼 Fish Don’t Have Feet 鱼没有脚 Unhappy Fat Tangerine不开心的肥橘Modern Romance574k WordsCompleted [Top-tier novel + modern romance + old-school melodrama + forced love + unhinged scumbag + scorching sexual tension + emotional manipulation + face-slapping + groveling pursuit after the breakup + addictive plot + heartbreak and catharsis + beautiful, strong, and tragic heroine + healing and redemption + campus life + heroine’s coming-of-age journey + happy ending] [Small-town country girl + wealthy city playboy of mixed heritage] Yao Yueying is like a parasite, living off her “best friend,” Che 6.7kReads8.6Score672Shelves

    Reader note

    I can't forget how I longed for that kind of earth-shattering, madcap love.

46. 96 红 Within and Beyond the Red Walls, Spring Breeze Enters the Game 红墙内外，春风入局 Momo's Little Words墨墨小语Modern Romance521k WordsCompleted [Older, Powerful Man] [Age Gap] [Junior Clerk] [Career Growth] [Guiding Lover] [Sweet Romance] One chance encounter, one moment of curiosity, and one... At some point, everything began to change. 56.2kReads8.5Score4.1kShelves

    Reader note

    I've read it over and over again. It's set in a high-ranking government, the male lead is a newly appointed Party Secretary, and the female lead is a civil servant—it's all been planned for a long time!! The way an older man spoils his wife is absolutely divine!! Those in politics are truly amazing!!! The content is incredibly exciting, I love it! [Original novel fan][Original novel fan]

47. 97 冬 Spring Winds in Winter 冬季有春风 Three Lives of Joy三生欢Modern Romance783k WordsOngoing [Female Growth] [Childhood Sweethearts] [Turning the Tables Against the Odds] [Realistic] A girl battered by her dysfunctional family wants nothing more than to save the naive young boy who loves her. Life in the cramped alleyways is always the same, while the surging tide of the times takes everyone by surprise. In the winter at the end of the century, the gears of Xu Chunfeng's fate quietly began to turn. 3kReads8.0Score127Shelves

    Reader note

    # Highly Recommended for Book Suffering🔥Realistic Era Heroine | "Spring Breeze in Winter" Who understands! Tired of rebirth with golden fingers and mindless face-slapping wish-fulfillment novels? I've found this down-to-earth Shanghai-style entrepreneurial novel! 😭 Set in a Shanghai alleyway in the 1990s, the protagonist, Xu Chunfeng, grew up in the mire of male chauvinism. Her uncle's family constantly exploited her, her mother favored her younger brother, and one hardship after another plagued her family. On the day of her college entrance exam, she missed the exam to save her best friend, shattering her dream of going to university💔 She sadly parted ways with her childhood sweetheart, Li Dongdong, her youthful love defeated by reality. Starting as a saleswoman in a clothing store, she rose step by step into the foreign trade industry; then she encountered her mother being scammed and incurring huge debts, losing all her savings in the financial crisis, and being cheated out of her job by her own uncle, experiencing several setbacks in her life. There were no cheat codes, no lucky breaks, she gritted her teeth and endured all the hardships✨ After awakening, she no longer compromised and tolerated, breaking free from the shackles of her original family. Seizing the opportunities of the times, she and her partner embark on a cross-border e-commerce business in apparel. Leveraging the Belt and Road Initiative, they sell Chinese-made clothing overseas, resisting malicious suppression from foreign capital and becoming dazzling female entrepreneurs. The twenty-year love-hate relationship between childhood sweethearts is incredibly touching! The male lead isn't a domineering CEO; he's an ordinary person who grew up following the rules, defying societal norms for love, giving up high-paying jobs and stock options to endure hardship alongside the female lead. Their mutual devotion, long-awaited reunion, and enduring love are anything but artificial. The book depicts the wave of layoffs, alleyway demolitions, the rise of foreign trade, and the internet revolution, brimming with the atmosphere of the era. Family entanglements, reconciliation, female empowerment, and the everyday realities of life are all vividly portrayed. The characters are lively, with both pain and warmth, and the story has a powerful impact! ✅ No rebirth | No system | Realistic | Female growth | Urban entrepreneurship | Historical setting | Childhood sweetheart reunion. Sisters who enjoy reading about ordinary people striving against the tides of time and strong female protagonists building their careers, go for it! #BookRecommendationForShortage#RealisticPeriodNovel#FemaleEntrepreneurialProtagonist#ChildhoodSweets#FemaleAwakening

48. 98 嫁 120 Reasons to Marry Apo 嫁给阿波的120个理由 Little Chi Tizi小池提提子Modern Romance164k WordsCompleted From sitting in front of each other in high school to a long-distance romance across borders, it took her eleven years to marry the boy who “wasn’t very good with words.” Do you believe someone can love only one person? In his first year of high school, he ran up and down three flights of stairs just to steal a glance at the girl by the window who loved to smile. Later, they became desk mates. She drew little turtles on his back, and he couldn’t bring himself to turn around. He wanted to add her 6Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I will never forget this; it was so beautiful.

49. 99 冬 Winter Fishing 冬渔 Ninefold Mystery九寻迷Modern Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [The currents of youth × one devoted love|He loves the moon’s sacred brilliance, but he loves her imperfections even more] Jiang Yu and Pei Yanhui have known each other since childhood, though they spent years apart in different countries. In those years, she struggled through the darkness, sinking deep into a swamp of malice; he grew up beneath clear skies, openhearted and bright. She locked her past away in ice, believing distance could hide her wounds forever. Until he returned home and disc 452Reads8.3Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is absolutely amazing! The writing is incredibly profound and nuanced.

50. 100 快 Quick Transmigration: This Time, I Refuse to Be a Jerk! 快穿：这一世，拒绝当渣男！ Quieted Down 1102安静了1102Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted (Quick transmigration / no fixed couple / fictional setting / pocket dimension / scumbag redemption) 1. An honest man in ancient times 2. An Eighties simp 3. A victim of the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law war 4. A dutiful son 5. A gambling addict 6. A golden phoenix who flies out of the mountains 7. An educated youth sent to the countryside 8. A younger sister living with her parents … 2.8kReads7.0Score140Shelves

    Reader note

    This is an absolutely must-read quick transmigration novel! A scumbag's revenge is paired with a healing redemption story, filled with high-energy, memorable scenes. The latest chapter has reached the chaotic escape from famine; now's the best time to read it, so hurry up and read on!

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