Looking for a Heroine Who's a Disciplined, Proper Clan Heiress 想要女主是那种宗族嫡女，克己复礼的那种。

1. 51 高 High-born Matriarch’s Husband-Taming Manual 高门主母的驯夫手册 Chu Diandian初点点Ancient Romance547k WordsCompleted Cheng Zhao was granted in marriage to Zhou Yuanshen, the youngest duke in the realm. Zhou Yuanshen had a favored concubine with a powerful family backing her, and he was also entangled in an ambiguous relationship with his widowed sister-in-law. He despised the stiff, dull manner of noble-born ladies. And Cheng Zhao had received the most orthodox upbringing of all. Faced with the endless infighting in the Duke’s household, the concubine’s provocations, and her sister-in-law’s covert meddling, Ch 163.9kReads9.0Score24.8kShelves
2. 52 海 Begonia Blossoms: The General's Wife Is Reborn and Goes on a Rampage 海棠笑：将军夫人重生她杀疯了 I Eat Grapes Without Spitting Out the Skins吃葡萄就是不吐皮Ancient Romance350k WordsCompleted A cold-faced, devoted general and a clever, gentle legitimate daughter I, Shen Zhiyu, died once. I burned in the flames, the pain searing to the bone. Only as I lay dying did I learn that the woman kneeling and crying over me was the enemy who had abducted me and drained my blood. My true identity was the Duke's Estate's legitimate daughter, switched at birth and kept from her family for fifteen years! When I opened my eyes again, Heaven had given me another chance at life. In this life, weari 754Reads—Score104Shelves

   Reader note

   The writing is superb. The main couple is a young general and a clever young lady. The side couples include a composed emperor and an orphaned empress, the eldest son of a noble family and the late emperor's legitimate daughter, and a spoiled young master and a dignified lady. Both the main and supporting characters are genuinely intelligent, courageous, resourceful, and possess a strong sense of patriotism. The plot and character development are excellent.

3. 53 玉 The Jade Abyss Misstep: The Eldest Daughter’s Joyful Life 玉渊错:嫡女的快意人生 Yi Ran怡然Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [Screen Adaptation Rights Sold] Xie Yuyuan had suffered a life so wretched it could move heaven and earth and make the gods weep. After she died, even the underworld refused to take her in. Now she was back. Those who had bullied her before would be repaid in kind, whether with gratitude or vengeance. No one was getting away. She never expected to lose her heart to a blind man. Blind or not, she accepted him! But who could have guessed that the blind man would suddenly transform into a handsome, 2.3kReads9.0Score721Shelves

   Reader note

   The first book perfectly fits the description. The female protagonist is the third young lady of the Xie family, a true daughter of a prominent clan, self-disciplined and respectful of etiquette. Every word and action reflects the upbringing of a noble family. Her maternal grandfather was from a powerful clan in the capital, who once held immense influence in the court and was one of the most prestigious families in the city.

4. 54 重 Reborn as the Eldest Legitimate Daughter: Stunning and Unmatched 重生嫡长女：美飒无双 YANiAncient Romance249k WordsOngoing Historical Romance + Rebirth + Comeback + Sweet Romance In her previous life, Lin Zhaoxue, the eldest legitimate daughter of the Marquis of Zhen’guo’s household, devoted herself to supporting the crown prince, only to be betrayed by him and her younger sister. After the crown prince ascended the throne, he sent her poisoned wine, and the entire Marquis of Zhen’guo’s household was executed. She died with hatred in her heart, only to unexpectedly be reborn in the year she had just come of age. In —Reads—Score—Shelves
5. 55 重 Reborn: The Serene Life of a Concubine's Daughter 重生之庶女悠然 Rui Zhe瑞者Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted In the fifteenth year of the Yan Feng era, Qiu Yiming, prefect of Lingnan, died in office. After the funeral, Lady Qiu, née Su, set out for the capital with her three daughters, one born to his principal wife and two to concubines, to seek refuge with her maternal family, the Earl of Zhongyi. As their carriage passed the Peony Tower, Qiu Fu leaned against the window, resting her chin in her hand, and smiled sweetly. Zheng Xiu, Duke of Rong, caught a fleeting glimpse of her in the crowd and nearl 2.6kReads9.0Score281Shelves

   Reader note

   After reading so many stories of family feuds and sibling rivalry, this is a much better read. Although they share a different mother, the sisters live in harmony. Perhaps it's because their stepmother isn't bad that they all find good husbands. There are no brutal scenes; it's a very good book and worth reading.

6. 56 宅 Springtime in the Great House 宅门春几度 Jun Zi You Ning君子攸宁Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted Though she bore the name of the legitimate daughter, Xie Qingzhi led a life of utmost caution. In the Xie household, she had always been an oddity. Within the family compound, her mother was cold toward her, and her grandmother barely acknowledged her. She also had an eldest sister who was vain, beautiful, and sharp-tongued, and a second sister who was timid and cowardly yet always getting into trouble. From a young age, Xie Qingzhi learned how to survive in the cracks between them. Calm and col 1.1kReads8.0Score138Shelves
7. 57 逞 Indulging 逞娇 Yuan Yuan原瑗Ancient Romance683k WordsCompleted [Rugged Hero and Sweetheart, A Princess's Devoted Suitor] [Marriage First, Love Later, One True Pairing, Sweet Romance] As the most honored princess of the Great Yi Dynasty, Pei Heyu was raised from birth in a world of wealth and luxury. When she grew up, she associated only with princes, nobles, and members of eminent families. Those young ladies and gentlemen all came from households of immense wealth, dressed in bejeweled finery. They drank Mingqian Longjing tea worth a fortune, ate tribute p 11.7kReads8.9Score1.1kShelves

   Reader note

   The author's writing style is really to my liking! [Laughing emojis]

8. 58 春 Moonlight Falls on Blossoms in the Spring Courtyard 春庭月照落花 The Plainspoken Baili Che简单明了的百里澈Ancient Romance355k WordsCompleted The safe and smooth life of a noble young lady. Seen through Luo Yunchu's eyes, the colorful lives of those around her unfold. Everyone has their disappointments, and beneath every seemingly foolish decision lies the best choice they could make at the time. 3.3kReads8.0Score245Shelves

   Reader note

   This book is incredibly good! I still feel so sorry for Princess Yuanhua. She married three times, but only one person ever loved her. Her father and mother are both dead, and she only has her grandmother. I cried so much; I truly feel sorry for her.

9. 59 染 A Hand in the Imperial Throne 染指皇权 Quiet Waters浅水幽幽Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted Su Yeying, daughter of the Marquis of Huai'an, has been reborn at a time when all her loved ones are still alive. Facing her enemy, she lashes out with a vicious kick, sending Liu Xiyuan, heir to the Earl of Wenshun, tumbling into the freezing lake. She cuts off their entanglement at the source! 2.1kReads8.4Score243Shelves

   Reader note

   The female protagonist of this book is the legitimate daughter of a marquis's family, a pure-hearted ancient woman who wants to protect her family and always knows what she wants to do and what she is doing.

10. 60 主 The Matriarch Is Tired. After Being Reborn, She Makes You All Work Like Beasts 主母累了，重生后换你们做牛马 Yu Yu Xiao Yu羽羽小羽Ancient Romance886k WordsCompleted Wei Yingxuan obeys her father’s orders and takes her deceased elder sister’s place in an arranged marriage. Before the wedding, she asks Song Tuo, “My temperament is very different from my sister’s. Will you truly care for me?” He replies, “She is she, and you are you. The day she died, I left the past behind.” For the sake of that promise, she too leaves the “past” and her “old flame” behind, and resolutely marries into the Marquis’s household. Seven years later, her elder sister comes back fro 2.8kReads8.5Score311Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist, Song Chuyu, is a princess, and the current Empress Dowager, who holds power, is her aunt. For the sake of her family and herself, she refuses to marry the emperor and instead marries a highly capable man. Knowing that the emperor is not very capable, for the sake of the people and her own power, she first plots with her husband against the grassland tribes to stabilize the border. Later, she directly undermines the emperor and her aunt, the Empress Dowager, and takes power for herself without claiming the title of queen.

11. 61 侯 The Marquis's Estate Forgot Its Gratitude? The Regent Backs Me, and I Won't Forgive Them 侯府忘恩义？摄政王撑腰，不原谅 Chu Diandian初点点Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Luo Ning took a blade meant for the Empress Dowager and suffered severe injuries, trading her life for her family's noble title. She went south to recuperate for three years, but when she returned, she discovered that her maternal cousin had taken over her courtyard. Her cousin had even replaced her in every aspect. Luo Ning's parents and elder brother adored her, her grandmother favored her, and even Luo Ning's childhood sweetheart secretly admired her, saying that she surpassed Luo Ning in eve 177.6kReads9.4Score27kShelves
12. 62 春 Spring Boudoir Romance 春闺娇 Xiao Bei晓贝Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted Ten-year-old Qin Zijin has just lost her mother when her aunt takes her to the capital. She thinks she's headed for a life as a dependent who'll die far from home, with no way back. Little does she know she's stepping onto a bright road where she and her mother-in-law will team up to take down scumbags, childhood sweethearts will shower each other with affection, and she can learn new skills and make money! Mother-in-law: I can do without a son, but my daughter-in-law is my own daughter. Husband 3.1kReads9.0Score438Shelves

    Reader note

    The eldest daughters of prominent families, meticulously raised and educated, exude an air of refinement in every word and deed, and are rigorous in all matters. The inner quarters of the household are their battlefield.

13. 63 宣 Commandery Princess Xuanping 宣平郡主 Cat Who Loves Sweet and Sour Pinecone Fish爱吃糖醋松果鱼的猫Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Princess Xuanping and the Crown Prince grew up together. Everyone thought she would become the future Crown Princess. But the Crown Prince fell for the princess's delicate, innocent-looking cousin instead. He forgot his promise that they would spend their lives together, and even risked angering the Emperor so he could marry her cousin. When danger struck, he abandoned the princess without hesitation. After Prince An rescues her, the princess comes to her senses. Some people simply aren't meant 3.8kReads8.8Score365Shelves
14. 64 虎 The Tiger Wife 虎妻 Lotus Flower藕花Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted The Great Qi Dynasty’s foremost God of War, the ruthless, hideous common-born general Yuchi Gui, was granted a marriage by the emperor to the capital’s greatest beauty, Princess Xu Xiyan. Then his high-born fiancée looked down on him, and the wedding was called off. Three years later, after suppressing a rebellion, the handsome and dashing general returned to the capital, becoming the hero every noblewoman in Great Qi wanted to marry. Then his former fiancée clung to him and forced him into marr 8.1kReads9.3Score1kShelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist doesn't rely on a rebirth cheat code; instead, she uses the wisdom of an ancient lady to turn the tables and help her family regain their high position. There are no typical time-travel wish-fulfillment novel tropes, but the writing is smooth and the ensemble cast is well-developed, making it suitable for readers who prefer serious political intrigue dramas.

15. 65 汴 Spring Deepens in Bianjing 汴京春深 Wheat小麦Ancient Romance1.6M WordsCompleted [Audio version now available, welcome to listen] Madam Rongguo, Wang Fu, devoted herself to her family until she fell gravely ill and died. She was reborn in the body of Meng Jiuniang, a foolish illegitimate daughter who was only seven years old. In her previous life, her husband became her uncle in this life, and her son became her cousin. In this life, Meng Wan had a simple wish: to live peacefully and watch her son, her cousin Su Fang in this life, grow up safe and sound. But as she and a gro 18.9kReads9.5Score2.4kShelves

    Reader note

    This fits perfectly. The female lead is the eldest daughter of the Qingshen family, with loving parents who died without a son, leaving the family line without heirs. She is then reborn into another family as a concubine's daughter. The author's writing is excellent and informative. If you enjoy historical romance, this is a must-read. Highly recommended!

16. 66 当 Back Then, I Refused to Marry the East Wind (A Companion to A Spring Rain on a Night in a Small Tower, a Historical Pride and Prejudice) 当年不肯嫁东风（《小楼一夜听春雨》姊妹篇，古代版傲慢与偏见) Bright Moon Tilts明月倾Ancient Romance556k WordsCompleted [Sisters united + rekindled romance + historical ensemble cast] The Ye sisters’ battle to protect their romantic prospects: a long-planned, romantic counterattack. With sisters sticking together, nothing is too difficult! After their mother died, the three Ye sisters broke with their father, who favored his concubine and neglected his wife. They lived in a separate residence and took in A Cuo, the adopted daughter of their late maternal aunt, relying on one another to get by. Four years ago, the 17.2kReads9.6Score2.8kShelves

    Reader note

    After their mother's death, the three Ye sisters broke ties with their father, who favored his concubine over his wife, and lived alone in a separate courtyard. They adopted their deceased aunt's adopted daughter, A-Cuo, and relied on each other for survival. Four years ago, the eldest sister, Ye Qinglan, secretly became engaged to the nameless military officer Cui Jingyu, and the two were deeply in love. However, before the great battle, Qinglan heartlessly broke off the engagement with Cui Jingyu. Four years later, Cui Jingyu's Zhenbei Army returned to the capital in great victory, and Cui Jingyu was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Ningyuan for his meritorious service. He became the object of pursuit by noble families at the Flower Banquet, but Qinglan remained unmarried. She refused to marry the east wind back then, only to be misled by the west wind. Lingbo, the second sister, is convinced that Qinglan sacrificed herself for the family and is determined to rekindle Qinglan's love. During this process, she develops feelings for the enigmatic Pei Zhao, while A'cuo also becomes involved with Wei Yushan, the young master of the Pingyuan Marquis's mansion… A flower-themed banquet for men and women, a group of sisters with diverse personalities, and a long-planned scheme to "rekindle the red thread"... Will Qinglan be able to resolve her misunderstandings with Cui Jingyu and rekindle their love?

17. 67 求 You Want a Secondary Wife? I’ll Marry Your Third Uncle in a Ten-Mile Bridal Procession! 求娶平妻？十里红妆嫁你三叔！ Optimistic Sunflower乐天派向日葵Ancient Romance447k WordsCompleted Everyone in the capital knew that Shen Zhao, the legitimate daughter of the Minister of Personnel, was deeply in love with the eldest son of the Cui family. But no one knew that the emperor had personally arranged the marriage between the Shen and Cui families. Cui Shaoqing had been engaged to Shen Zhao for ten years, yet had never cared about her. Only later did Shen Zhao understand that Cui Shaoqing favored women with pride and backbone. She had wasted all her affection and put up with every i 23.2kReads9.2Score3.1kShelves

    Reader note

    Just finished watching it, it was pretty good.

18. 68 灯 When the Lanterns Fade, the Calamity Ends 灯明劫尽 Rui Xuan睿暄Ancient Romance859k WordsOngoing [Two strong leads, brilliant strategists, devoted only to each other, revenge, dual identities, dual personalities, an alternate world not based on any historical dynasty, plenty of witty flirting] She is the eldest princess, rumored to be cherished by all, yet she witnessed her mother spend her life being manipulated by the man she loved. Gentle and composed on the surface, she excels at reading people and understands human nature. To stir up the court, she will stop at nothing. She will destro 2kReads9.3Score269Shelves

    Reader note

    Ancient Chinese political intrigue, the female protagonist is clear-headed and has a broad perspective.

19. 69 寒 The Winter Cicada Still Sings 寒蛰不住鸣 Zhi Xia织夏Ancient Romance466k WordsCompleted [The Grand Minister of the Dali Court × a married heir's wife, purely historical, male lead has a secret crush, both leads are each other's only partners, crime-solving, female supporting character transmigrates into a book] Dong Shushen, the daughter the prestigious Dong family had recently acknowledged, was married off as the Prince of Rong's heir's second wife. His household already had concubines. For three years, while the heir was stationed away with the army, she worked herself ragged man 121Reads8.5Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    🌻This book is definitely similar in feel to "Bound Spring Love." The author referenced many details from the Song Dynasty's physical characteristics, and the writing style is quite good. 🌻The female protagonist was lost as a child and was only recognized by her clan in her teens. She was raised to be a noble lady and married the crown prince as his wife. After three years of widowhood, she managed the crown prince's residence very well, but when the crown prince returned, he brought back another woman.

20. 70 行 Late in the Day 行止晚 Zhi Er织尔Ancient Romance138k WordsCompleted [Devoted love + emperor and empress + tragic palace romance] 145,000 readers gave it top ratings, and countless readers cried their way through it! The year’s breakout historical romance, a heartache readers can’t forget. A clear-eyed, sweet empress VS a proud emperor whose love never wavers. Born into the imperial family, how can everything ever go as you wish? May we remain together forever, and may I keep you safe and at peace. A gentleman’s word is his bond. In a daze, I saw the moon rise. 25.7kReads9.6Score3.3kShelves

    Reader note

    The protagonist of "Bound Spring Love" is a well-bred young lady whose every word and action conforms to the rules, while the time-traveling woman is the complete opposite. Their rivalry is a clash between two eras, but they ultimately reach a truce with a shared goal. The latter two books also feature a group of women in the imperial court, each with a distinct personality and their own story. They are heart-wrenching but very exciting, making it impossible to put down!

21. 71 古 The Leisurely Life of a Noblewoman in Ancient Times 古代闺秀的悠闲生活 The Plainspoken Baili Che简单明了的百里澈Ancient Romance296k WordsCompleted Savor the unhurried passing of time and enjoy a carefree life. I envy your graceful beauty, reflected in the blue heavens and the jade moon. Su Huayue learned everything from her mother from a young age, treating being a daughter of the Su family as a job. As the legitimate daughter of her father's second wife, all she had to do was live freely under the protection of her mother and elder brother. Her only pleasure was watching her two elder half-sisters compete for their father's and grandmothe 11.5kReads8.4Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    It's here! Not mindless, a micro-ensemble piece, no time travel or rebirth.

22. 72 论 On the Upbringing of Noble Daughters 论贵女的养成 The Plainspoken Baili Che简单明了的百里澈Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [No rebirth or transmigration, a light ensemble cast] [The first part focuses on the everyday family life at the heroine’s maternal home, the Marquisate of Wuyang. The second volume focuses on everyday family life at her husband’s home, the Prince of Xinning’s residence.] Shen Lening is very happy with her life. She never has to worry about anything. Her only daily concerns are what to wear, what to eat, and what to accessorize with. (I’ve written several stories where the heroine’s mother is a 8.1kReads6.3Score743Shelves
23. 73 玉 The Jade Palace Enchantress 玉殿娆 Gong Yannu宫颜女Ancient Romance153k WordsOngoing Spoiled, beautiful little princess and genius chef × refined scoundrel of a sickly villain Zheng Yanshu, a famous food streamer, transmigrates into a book as a notorious cannon-fodder villainess. The Zhen Guo Princess who shares her name was pampered from childhood and wielded immense power at court. But she made the foolish mistake of competing with the heroine for the hero. What kind of ending could she possibly expect? Imperial power? A succession struggle? Watch her conquer the court with he —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A classic ancient Chinese romance novel, featuring characters from the past. The male and female leads undergo dual rebirths; their previous lives were tragic due to power struggles within the imperial court, but they are reborn to mend their broken relationships and make amends for the regrets in their past lives regarding family, friendship, and love. Character traits: A beautiful, ruthless, spoiled, and wealthy heiress × A proud, aloof, and pure-hearted young prince. Main relationship: Pseudo-blood relation.

24. 74 小 Listening to Spring Rain All Night in a Small Tower 小楼一夜听春雨 Bright Moon Tilts明月倾Ancient Romance876k WordsCompleted A critically acclaimed historical romance ensemble that topped the annual charts! A calculating, lovesick beauty versus a dark, scheming top scholar! A historical take on Pride and Prejudice: life in the inner household isn't all scheming and rivalry, but also deep sisterly affection. The clever and capable Second Madam Lou takes the greatest pride in her life in having three beautiful daughters. To marry her three marriageable girls into “good” families, she travels a great distance to the capi 35.4kReads9.6Score5.8kShelves

    Reader note

    Beautiful, beautiful, absolutely beautiful! In the capital, wealthy people often held banquets to admire flowers and drink wine according to the twenty-four seasonal flower-bearing winds. Women of marriageable age would also use these flower banquets to find their match. The three Lou sisters were all exceptionally beautiful and talented: the eldest was dignified and bright, the second was cunning and charming, and the youngest was lively and righteous. Each of them had their own ups and downs in finding a partner, but in the end, they all found their own happiness.

25. 75 大 Ballad of Changle in the Great Capital 大都长乐谣 Dingdong Jiuj iu叮咚酒酒Ancient Romance630k WordsCompleted Until the age of ten, Yuan Wei was the apple of everyone’s eye in the Marquis of Cheng’en’s household in the capital. Her grandparents were kind, and her father often carried her on his shoulders as they played. After she turned ten, her mother died, and Yuan Wei was sent to Putuo Temple to recuperate. By the time she was fifteen, Yuan Wei wore prayer beads and lived freely, doing whatever she pleased. 3.5kReads8.9Score341Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so good, go watch it!

26. 76 首 The Grand Secretary Regrets It, but I've Already Won the Favor of the Entire Harem 首辅大人后悔了，我已宠冠六宫 The Wind Goes Blah Blah叽里咕噜的风Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The short drama of the same name, Resigning as Chief Councillor, is now streaming on Hongguo and Fanqie! In this life, both leads are faithful to each other. In her previous life, the heroine, Liu Mianmian, was married. In his previous life, the hero, Xie Lingyuan, died young. There’s no rivalry between women, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this story isn’t for you. In her previous life, no one lived happily. In this life, Liu Mianmian just wants to live comfortably. All she wants this t 8.6kReads8.8Score2.4kShelves

    Reader note

    The charm of legitimate daughters in ancient times

27. 77 国 The Happy Everyday Life of a Concubine's Wife in the Duke's Mansion 国公府庶媳的幸福日常 June's Private Plot六月的自留地Ancient Romance467k WordsCompleted [Now available in print] Ning Annuo was happily preparing to marry her fiance, the top scholar, when a bolt from the blue struck: he had been sleeping with someone else. She promptly broke off the engagement and married into the Duke’s residence instead. She outsmarted her mother-in-law, wisely guided her younger sister-in-law, won her husband’s devotion, and had a son and a daughter. Then she repaid everyone who had hurt her. She and her husband truly became a couple devoted to each other for l 5.4kReads8.9Score540Shelves
28. 78 朱 Willows by the Vermilion Gate 朱门柳 Nine Startling Dreams九惊梦Ancient Romance917k WordsOngoing [An alternate-history Tang-inspired aristocratic family saga of power and intrigue, told through a cast of women.] [Romance is only a touch of color. Survival and ambition are the story’s true foundations. No transmigration, extraordinary encounters, or golden finger, and no one-dimensional villains.] [Main characters: Xiao Lingxi, Xiao Yunxiu, Xiao Yungui, in no particular order] An age of prosperity approaches its end, and the Rongguo estate teeters amid the storm. The eldest daughter, Xiao Li 364Reads8.1Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    This is absolutely amazing! The eldest daughter becomes a loyal subject—no one could resist loving my Xi-jie!! It's already 800,000 words!! Seriously, if you happen to be passing by, you absolutely must take a look; this is my absolute favorite book.

29. 79 穿 After I Transmigrated Into a Book, Five Little Villains Doted on Me 穿书后，我被五个小反派娇宠了 Awakening in Another Dimension异次元觉醒Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted The short drama adapted from this book, The Princess Is Born Stubborn, Raising Children and Wielding Imperial Power, Is No Problem, is now streaming <(*￣▽￣*)/ [Everyday life raising children in ancient times + a wealthy, powerful princess who can do as she pleases + a wickedly handsome male lead with overwhelming martial prowess + devoted 1v1 romance] Qin Yaoguang transmigrates into a book as the wicked stepmother of five little villains. Ten years later, they will carve her into a human swine 4.2kReads9.2Score693Shelves
30. 80 才 A Talented Woman's Plight: After Being Forced to Marry a Spoiled Heir 才女难当：被纨绔世子强娶后 Eighteenth Yuanwai十八员外Ancient Romance397k WordsCompleted [Unparalleled sweet romance + scheming male lead + mutual devotion] [Not an over-the-top wish-fulfillment story. Avoid if that's what you like] [Female-oriented romance. Avoid if you prefer male-oriented novels] In the fourteenth year of the Great Zhou, an imperial edict shattered the decades of peaceful life Liu Qingyi had known. With a wave of his hand, the emperor married the capital's foremost beauty to the heir of Prince Huai'an, the notorious playboy who was the talk of the city. Their rep 2.1kReads8.8Score160Shelves

    Reader note

    A straightforward young master meets a delicate young lady. The male lead appears to be a playboy with nothing to do, but he secretly cares about the world. The female lead looks fragile but is strong-willed. There are no palace intrigues or family dramas; it's all about the sweet daily life of the couple and their love for their country.

31. 81 相 My Dear Husband, I Just Want to Be a Lazy Fish 相公，妾身只想做咸鱼 Ji Saburo姬三郎Ancient Romance488k WordsCompleted A betrothal agreement made years ago bound together the dignified, talented eldest legitimate daughter of the Duke of Rong’s household and the good-for-nothing, dissolute youngest legitimate son of the Marquis of Yongning’s household. Little did anyone know that Tang Bingxuan, the duke’s eldest daughter, loves nothing more than sleeping! And Jiang Shunian, the marquis’s youngest son, loves nothing more than playing the fool while hiding his true abilities! Scene One: Jiang Shunian: “Wife, winte 861Reads8.8Score100Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is the eldest daughter of a prominent family, while the male lead is the heir to a marquis's estate (both are virgins). Although the female lead is somewhat laid-back, she's not simply passive; she plans everything carefully before letting herself go. She was pampered by her elders from a young age, and after marrying the male lead, he dotes on her. The male lead has a contrasting persona; outwardly a playboy, he secretly works for the prince. The entire story is devoid of female rivalry and is relatively lighthearted and heartwarming.

32. 82 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 Romance850k WordsOngoing [Pure Historical Romance] [Plot-Driven] [Court Intrigue] [Two Strong Leads] [One-on-One Romance] [Everyone Is Clever] [Powerful Prince Who Holds the Court in His Hand vs. Brilliant Commoner Daughter] Ruan Zhenzhen, the illegitimate daughter of the Pingyang Marquis's household, was born of a courtesan's bloodline and raised in a humble home in the countryside. Then, one day, she was forced to enter the treacherous world of the capital's noble houses. Her relatives put on a false show of welcome, 8.7kReads8.7Score857Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is worth reading; the female protagonist is incredibly intelligent.

33. 83 月 Moonlight on the Spring River 月映春江色 Linzhong Guanzhi霖中观致Ancient Romance291k WordsCompleted [Sweet historical romance, devoted couple, a brave and clever heroine with strong principles who never lets herself be mistreated] (No transmigration, rebirth, or System) [1v1] The hero is devoted, and the heroine is independent and self-assured. [Beautiful, clever, cool-headed noblewoman vs. devoted, wife-doting general] In the fifteenth year of the Jiazhao era, victory comes at the border, and General Yan Yunmo returns in triumph. At court, he asks the emperor to arrange his marriage to Jiang 139Reads5.6Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is the legitimate daughter of a prestigious family; she is gentle, intelligent, insightful, and possesses a strong inner strength.

34. 84 朕 I Shall Protect You, Your Majesty. May You Reign for Ten Thousand Years, Your Majesty. “朕护你周全”，“臣妾祝陛下万岁” Self-Salvation JR自渡JRAncient Romance7k WordsCompleted “I will keep you safe,” “May Your Majesty live for ten thousand years.” —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Both of these are examples. The first, "Supreme as the Sun and Moon," is filled with the complexities of love, hate, and power struggles between a close and distant couple. The love is real, as are the suspicions and power games. It has an open ending and a dark dragon and a wicked phoenix. The second book is similar to the story of the eldest daughter of a noble family, the Langya Wang Clan. The female protagonist is a typical lady of a prominent family who, amidst the ups and downs of the times, uses her limited resources to protect her mother when her father is weak and her maternal clan is declining.

35. 85 安 The Wang Clan of Annan: A Record 安南王氏录 Self-Salvation JR自渡JR6k WordsCompleted The Annan Wang Clan Records —Reads—Score—Shelves
36. 86 谢 The Xie Family's Short-Lived Son Has Lived to a Hundred 谢家的短命鬼长命百岁了 Yi Ran怡然Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted [Screen adaptation rights sold] The lid of a dead person's coffin won't lie flat because they had an unresolved longing in life. Given time, that longing turns into a demonic obsession, and unless it is resolved, their descendants will suffer. Yan Sanhe's job is to release the dead from their obsessions. One day, she gets hounded by Third Master Xie, who claims to have one. Yan Sanhe says she doesn't deal with the living. Third Master Xie replies, “Everyone says I won't live long. Just think of 125.4kReads9.6Score17kShelves

    Reader note

    [Admiration]③The Hua family is a century-old noble family. Even though all the men in the family over the age of 11 were exiled overnight, Hua Zhi still managed to lead the entire clan without being bullied, and her married daughters were not humiliated. [Thumbs up]

37. 87 表 The Cousin Is Hard to Placate, and the Heir Has Other Designs 表姑娘难哄，世子他另有所图 A Glimpse of Beauty惊鸿意Ancient Romance337k WordsOngoing [A cool, seemingly gentle cousin who hides a dark side X a scheming, obsessive heir apparent [Stealing someone’s partner + love at first sight + pure historical setting + the hero has been plotting for a long time + mutually devoted 1v1] Xie Zhao travels to the capital to seek refuge with her aunt, and while she is at it, to meet the fiancé she was promised to as a child but has never seen: the second young master of the Duke of Zhenguo’s household. But before she even catches sight of him, rum 127Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book initially felt like *Dream of the Red Chamber*, but then I realized it's quite different. The female lead is a young lady from a wealthy family, and the male lead is a prince. What makes it even more appealing is that the female lead was originally the fiancée of the male lead's cousin. (Sister-in-law, open the door! I'm my brother! Just kidding!) Anyone else like me who dislikes stories where characters suddenly get together or fall in love for no apparent reason? The female lead is cautious and prudent, driven by revenge. The male lead has secretly loved her for a long time and tries to seduce her multiple times, but she's incredibly clear-headed and doesn't fall for it! It's all about manipulation and revenge. The main characters aren't one-dimensional. The male lead is charming and a bit comical, the dashing type, while the female lead is calm and composed, but constantly gets pushed to her limits by the male lead. They're practically on opposite sides. And the male lead's questions to the female lead, like "What do you think of me?", Are hilarious—who could possibly be interested in her? The younger brother doesn't have much screen time, but the famous scene in the synopsis is absolutely hilarious.

38. 88 夫 Madam, the Heir Has Been Plotting This for a Long Time 夫人，世子他蓄谋已久 Susu Qian Ci酥酥芊瓷Ancient Romance471k WordsCompleted [A devoted couple, sweet romance, childhood friends] (Complete! Originally titled The Lady, the Heir Apparent Has Been Plotting This for a Long Time) [Scheming, doting heir apparent VS beautiful, high-maintenance heir apparent’s wife] Lu Zhaozhao, the youngest legitimate daughter of the Marquis of Yunyang’s household, is adored by her parents and protected by her older siblings. She has grown up in comfort, with everything going her way. At sixteen, Lu Zhaozhao is a peerless beauty, and the thre 26.8kReads9.2Score2.9kShelves

    Reader note

    I especially love the female lead's personality; she's so adorable. And I love her family even more! She has loving parents, caring older siblings, and a childhood sweetheart who loves her—it's practically my ideal life! [Kissing emojis]

39. 89 太 The Daily Life of a Concubine in the Crown Prince's Manor 太子府的侍妾日常 Zhu Chidan朱赤丹Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Reborn and switching betrothals + household battles + raising children + adorable babies + doted on exclusively later] Chu Mingyun and her legitimate elder sister, Chu Mingxi, were both reborn. In their previous lives, Chu Mingxi became the Crown Prince’s secondary consort and lived in splendor. She married an old man from the marquis’s household as his second wife and had to raise someone else’s children. The whole family’s hopes rested on her elder sister, but who could have expected this? Th 4.4kReads8.0Score496Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so beautiful!!!

40. 90 清 A Farewell to Quiet Joy 清欢辞 Wu Tong梧桐Ancient Romance96k WordsCompleted Xiao Qinghuan, daughter of the Marquis of Wuyang, was praised by everyone in Bianjing as a fine young lady from a distinguished scholarly family. She was beautiful, gentle, and charming. Before she had even come of age, countless young men from prominent families had come to ask for her hand, but she had not taken a liking to a single one. The man she loved was a peerless hero. “The young ladies in the capital are all pretty much the same, dull as dishwater. Especially the ones from scholarly fa 20.2kReads9.2Score2.1kShelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is a well-bred lady from a prestigious family, and she is self-disciplined and respectful of propriety. These three books fit the ancient version of the arranged marriage that blossoms into a slow and steady love story. The male and female leads are forced to be together by an imperial decree. The male lead is straight at first and the female lead doesn't care. Later, they develop feelings for each other as they spend time together.

41. 91 贵 A Noble Lady’s Difficult Fate 贵女难当 Wen Qingchen文卿尘Ancient Romance736k WordsCompleted As a proper noblewoman, Lin Qingwan had studied the Four Books and learned the lessons of womanly virtue from childhood, all so she could marry her cousin, to whom she had been betrothed since they were young, and become the perfect nobleman's wife. She thought they had grown up together and, even if they weren't head over heels in love, they could still share a loving life into old age, treating each other with respect. But her cousin was ambitious and single-minded in his pursuit of power. She 5.8kReads8.9Score615Shelves
42. 92 岁 Spring's Joy, Year After Year 岁岁春欢 I Really Love Little Crabs超爱小螃蟹Ancient Romance669k WordsCompleted [The print edition of Years of Spring Joy is now available on all platforms] [Heroine and scumbag reborn + male lead transmigrates + mutual salvation + play the pig to eat the tiger] At seventeen, Shen Jiasui married Lu Yunzheng. The Shen and Lu families were both military dynasties, making them a formidable match. Two years into their marriage, Lu Yunzheng defeated the enemy kingdom and won renown across the land. But the Shen family was condemned for treason and executed to the last member. On 265.2kReads9.6Score31kShelves
43. 93 邺 Song of Ye City 邺城曲 Li Ruo Qianyu离若千羽Ancient Romance666k WordsCompleted Told from the heroine's perspective. Be warned: this is a tragic ending. In Yecheng, everyone knows Tantai Hua, the eldest daughter born of a concubine in the Eastern Peace Marquis's household, yet no one pays any attention to the legitimate daughter of the marquis. Her father neglects her birth mother, who is bullied by the concubines until she dies in despair. Qiu Ci and her elder sister depend on each other. Within the marquis's household, open attacks and hidden schemes abound, smiles concea 8Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is the legitimate daughter of a marquis's family. She doesn't have a particularly carefree personality, but her methods are somewhat ruthless.

44. 94 表 After the Young Lady Chose a Match, the Unhinged Heir Went Red-Eyed and Claimed Her by Force 表姑娘选亲后，疯批世子红眼强夺 Half a Song半歌儿Ancient Romance345k WordsOngoing [Cool-Headed, Rational Cousin] x [Obsessive, Unhinged Heir] Pathological possessiveness, intense push and pull, two strong and devoted leads, strategic mind games and power struggles, sweet romance, happy ending At five, she was sent to live with her maternal grandmother at the Duke's manor. She hid her sharp edge, kept her feelings in check, and acted cautiously and patiently at every turn. Yet her striking beauty and cool, bookish elegance inevitably stirred jealousy throughout the household. 1.6kReads—Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    Although she lives in the Duke's mansion, she never loses her integrity. The female lead is very emotionally stable, insightful, and clear-headed; she knows what she wants.

45. 95 心 The Art of Scheming: A Perfect Performance by the Cannon Fodder 心机美学：炮灰的完美出演 Sleepy Island Diary眠岛日记Ancient Romance393k WordsCompleted (One-on-one romance + small worlds + pseudo-coercion + past and present lives + comeback) When the supporting heroines in a story dream of the endings already written for them, will they still willingly follow the paths fate laid out? One: The daughter of a minor official, married off to a young nobleman through a family alliance [Female lead’s perspective + extensive introspection + romantic push and pull + marriage before love + she falls for him first + pseudo-coercion] Two: An ordinary girl 2.3kReads8.2Score146Shelves

    Reader note

    You can check out the third world in your first book.

46. 96 夺 Seizing You: The Emperor Regrets It to This Day 夺卿：帝王悔杀当年 Sleepy Island Diary眠岛日记Ancient Romance222k WordsOngoing “When Your Majesty personally bestowed me upon another back then, did you ever imagine you would regret it so bitterly today?” Married life was like walking on thin ice. A year after her wedding, she “ran into” the Emperor at Yuntai Temple. Dressed in plain robes, her dark hair unbound, she looked like a young woman awaiting her wedding day. He was captivated by her innocence, unaware that this was the first move in her scheme. After that came several more “chance encounters”: praying fo 5Reads—Score—Shelves
47. 97 锦 Brocade Butcher 锦屠 Li Er'er李尔尔Ancient Romance656k WordsCompleted Bianjing is full of powerful nobles. As the eldest legitimate daughter-in-law of the Marquis of Yongyi, a distinguished family of hereditary nobles, Xie Rongying embodies every virtue and is a model for women. A month after their wedding, her husband marched off to war. Half a year later, he died on the battlefield, his body brought home on his horse. From then on, a life of Buddhist prayers and the constraints of a chastity arch confined her for the rest of her days. As she lay dying, she seeme 15.3kReads8.6Score1.6kShelves
48. 98 鬓 Hairpins and Beauty 鬓花颜 Peach Who Doesn't Slack Off桃子不摸鱼Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted [Main story complete] [Maid + sisters in the inner palace + ensemble-focused story] [The heroine is a native of this world, with no transmigration, rebirth, or hidden identity] After her mother dies of illness, Meng Shu’s father takes a new wife almost at once. She endures years under her stepmother’s hand, but in the end, she cannot escape being sold. A trafficker’s rope drags her away from her homeland and casts her into the fabulously wealthy Tang household. Her exceptiona 35.1kReads9.2Score4.5kShelves
49. 99 逢 The Lantern-Bearing Chronicles 逢灯纪 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance982k WordsCompleted (Signed for publication, with screen adaptation rights sold) You're the daughter of a marquis. You want to take your mother's dowry and remains with you? Done. I'll take the dowry and remains, and bring you your mother's divorce papers as well as your own severance papers cutting ties with your family. You were declared dead and became an invisible person behind your brothers. You want to live like a normal person again? Done. I'll restore your name and identity, and make sure you receive the en 86.7kReads9.3Score12.7kShelves
50. 100 世 The Heir Apparent’s Consort Has the Script of His One True Love 世子妃她手拿白月光剧本 Shattered Starlight夜空碎光Ancient Romance355k WordsCompleted Zhao Rujin was born into an ancient world, so she knew from the start that this cruel dynasty would never tolerate a woman who wasn't virtuous. So she became magnanimous, virtuous, kind, lively, and gentle all at once. She could earn money, keep the household in order, and pretend to love her husband faithfully until death. What she never expected was that her husband would be a hopeless romantic. When they married, she received a gift of special significance from an admirer. Her husband said, “ 5kReads8.9Score444Shelves

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