Any Ancient-Era Political Intrigue Novels? 有没有古代权谋文

1. 1 行 With Whom Will the Clouds Finally Rest? 行云终与谁同 Different Paths, Common Ground道不同理相通Female-Channel Fanfiction1.1M WordsCompleted [Three Kingdoms martial arts / two strong leads healing each other / ensemble of women / political intrigue and growth] She is Ma Yunlu, the wild rose of Xiliang. She draws her carved bow to its full moon, gallops thousands of miles across the yellow sands, yet her father and brothers promise her in marriage to a spoiled local tyrant. On the day she runs away from her wedding, she sheds her red bridal finery and dons armor. “A woman should be a sword, fighting on the battlefield and bringing pea 295Reads9.1Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   [A Three Kingdoms Fanfiction, No System, No Time Travel, No Cheat Codes] This is a legendary novel about characters from the Three Kingdoms period! The main plot revolves around war, emotions, and growth, while the Cao Wei storyline is primarily about political intrigue. Ma Yunlu: "All crows under heaven are black, I won't marry anyone!" Zhao Yun: "Marriage in chaotic times will only lead to betrayal, I won't marry anyone!" [Similar to Wuxia, Traditional Ancient Romance, Three Kingdoms Fanfiction: The Love Story of Ma Yunlu and Zhao Yun] [1v1, No Time Travel, No Cheat Codes, No System, A Match Made in Heaven, Beautiful, Strong, and Tragic X Beautiful, Strong, and Tragic Single Female Lead, Mutual Redemption] Also known as: "The Legend of Yunlu in the Three Kingdoms," "The Unofficial Biography of Zhao Yun in the Three Kingdoms," etc. The lonely moon shines only because I haven't seen it. The dim starry river only because I haven't seen you. This book showcases the journey of Ma Yunlu, daughter of Ma Teng, the governor of Tianshui, sister of Ma Chao, and wife of Zhao Yun, from a young girl to a female general, and tells her love story with Zhao Yun. (This story employs a dual narrative: the romance unfolds when the male and female protagonists are together, while their growth and development, along with the historical events and wars, unfold when they are apart.) Most historical figures are covered in this book, but its unique feature is its female perspective, offering more insights and perspectives from a female viewpoint… It provides a fresh interpretation of the well-known stories of the Three Kingdoms period from a new angle. (There may be instances where the plot deviates from the timeline of either the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" or "historical records" for plot purposes; the overall direction is similar to the novel. Readers who are sensitive to this should proceed with caution.)

2. 2 南 South Branches Toward Dusk, The Regent Has Been Plotting This for Ages 南枝向晚，摄政王他蓄谋已久 Doudou from Zhongyue Province中月省的逗逗Ancient Romance726k WordsCompleted [Just received a rating] Complete ◎ [Revenge after being reborn + mastery of medicine and poison + powerful leads who cherish each other + everyone’s a schemer + palace intrigue and political machinations] Important: No stupid villains. Everyone has eight hundred tricks up their sleeve, and the battle of wits is at its peak! In her previous life, Shen Nanzhi, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo’s family, was blind to the truth. She used a forbidden technique to save a scumbag man, dr 22.6kReads8.8Score2.6kShelves

   Reader note

   Perfectly matched! [Novel just released rating] Completed ◎ [Rebirth and Revenge + Medical and Poison Mastery + Strong Couples and Mutual Pampering + Everyone's Clever + Palace Intrigue] Highlight: No villains with low intelligence, everyone's cunning, peak intellectual battle! In her past life, Shen Nanzhi, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion, went blind and used forbidden techniques to drain her life force to save her scumbag husband. In return, she found him secretly having an affair with her scheming cousin, causing her entire Shen family to perish! Reborn, she holds silver needles, returning to the day she used poison to prolong her husband's life. Facing her husband's expectation and her cousin's fake tears, Shen Nanzhi coldly withdrew her needles: "I won't cure the poison. Since my cousin is so deeply in love, why don't you bleed her flesh?" In this life, she tears off the disguise, possessing both medical and poison mastery, able to bring the dead back to life and heal the wounded! Xiao Duo, the Regent of Dayuan, a powerful and influential ruler, suffers greatly from a strange poison. Shen Nanzhi tossed down the antidote, her voice cold and arrogant: "I will extend Your Highness's life. Lend me your blade to slaughter all the demons and monsters, how about it?" The world believed Shen Nanzhi was merely a delicate canary in the palm of a living Yama. Only when powerful ministers took center stage, and deadly schemes unfolded one after another, did everyone realize with horror—the seemingly fragile Shen Nanzhi was actually a master strategist, a female Zhuge Liang who held the reins of power and calculated every move! She and he entrusted their lives to each other, slaying gods and demons alike, manipulating the entire court with ease! When the bloody path was cleared and the world was at peace, the iron-blooded regent, who struck fear into the hearts of all under heaven, shed his ferocity, holding her tightly in his arms, his voice low and hoarse with madness: "Zhizhi, the world is at peace. When will you give me a title?!" —A ruthless and decisive medical and poison queen × A mad regent who bows down to her!

3. 3 太 Crown Princess, Hurry and Save This Lonely Dog's Life 太子妃，快来救孤狗命 Ten Miles of Wind十里风Ancient Romance390k WordsCompleted [Dual transmigration, no golden finger + the fate of the nation + leads who are both intelligent and capable + devoted to each other + political intrigue + light ensemble cast + plot-focused + parallel storylines + careers come first] A catlike prince who acts cute and begs for affection × a composed, levelheaded, and brilliant fiancée Wait, who transmigrates and becomes crown prince for only three days? Gu Qingyao was driven from her home, her family executed, and she slept in the wilderness. O 3Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   The female lead is in a mass grave, the male lead is lying in a coffin, the story starts off disastrously, but his intelligence is on point.

4. 4 卿 Qingqing, May You Be at Peace 卿卿其安 Gu Mingyu顾铭钰Ancient Romance245k WordsOngoing Everyone in the capital knew that the Xie family's legitimate daughter, Xie Zhaoyue, was ruthless. She pushed her half-sister into a pond with her own hands and watched coldly as she sank. Later, she went far away to Wu Commandery. After years of planning, she finally married into the Eastern Palace, just as she had hoped. She thought the game was already won. But what awaited her was the execution of the entire Xie family. Her mother left her only one message: "As long as you are here, the Xie 63Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   (Political Intrigue | Ancient Romance | No Rebirth, No Cheat Codes) The world misunderstands Xie Zhaoyue's ruthlessness, unaware that every step she takes is calculated with a purpose. Marrying into the Eastern Palace, which was supposed to be the end of her plan, becomes the beginning of the Xie family's calamity. With her mother's dying words ringing in her ears, she enters the game alone, taking control of this chaotic world once again.

5. 5 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 1.9kReads9.3Score270Shelves

   Reader note

   This ancient tale of power struggles is imbued with a sense of national responsibility and unwavering conviction, prioritizing loyalty to the country over imperial power. The story features two strong, intelligent characters, a complex power structure built around a micro-group dynamic, the logic of multi-factional power struggles, and the gray areas of character motivations. The writing is delicate and compelling, revealing the undercurrents of human nature beneath the emperor's machinations, and the cracks beneath the facades of powerful and capable officials. The author portrays ambition, balance, and the ability to accept one's own choices.

6. 6 太 The Crown Prince Is a Treasure Trove, but She Flirts and Runs 太子浑身是宝，但她撩完就跑 Nine Strokes, Then a Horizontal Line九笔横才Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Clever revenge + ensemble court drama + male lead fakes his death and reveals his identity, then goes mad + heroine is his one true love] [Power couple comedy | Strategic mind games | All the right ingredients | Fictional setting] Axiang, a huntress, bought herself a live-in husband. He was handsome, with a fine figure and a noble, radiant air, like an immortal crane descended from the heavens, or a jade-faced gentleman from a storybook. But he had no idea how to show affection. When she offer 1.5kReads9.2Score185Shelves

   Reader note

   This one! The female protagonist is strategic and methodical, taking each step carefully and surely. She's resourceful and intelligent. The logic is very sound. Top-notch writing. You won't regret investing in it.

7. 7 长EN After the Grand Princess Is Reborn, the Chief Grand Secretary Can No Longer Sit Still 长公主重生后，首辅大人坐不住了 Dong Chichi董迟迟Ancient Romance476k WordsCompleted [Rebirth + Political Intrigue + Powerful Hero and Heroine + Plenty of Foreshadowing + Serious Ensemble Cast] [Charming, Alluring, Sweet-Natured Yet Cunning Eldest Princess + Autocratic, Possessive Chief Grand Secretary] [Important: This is NOT a wish-fulfillment novel!!!] As a princess, Zhao Huiluan lived in luxury and honor, yet died in the prime of her life. Reborn, she finally realized that all the countless honors and favors she had once been proud of were nothing but illusions. Power is saf 5.4kReads9.2Score744Shelves

   Reader note

   The female protagonist is patient and cunning, a master of manipulating people's hearts, gradually rising from the inner court to the imperial court. The male protagonist comes from a humble background, signing a contract to sell himself into servitude at the age of seven, becoming a wealthy young master. He achieves the highest rank in the imperial examinations and enters officialdom, rising from the Hanlin Academy to the Grand Secretariat, becoming a powerful minister wielding authority.

8. 8 成 He Became Chen Shuda’s Illegitimate Son, Yet Li Er Stripped Him of His Chancellorship 成陈叔达私生子？他却被李二罢相 The Boxing Crab会拳击的螃蟹Historical610k WordsCompleted [No System, defying all convention, farming and rising to the top, power plays and face-slapping, funny and lighthearted, peerless prodigy] My new novel, Transmigrating Between Two Worlds: Becoming a God Through Wilderness Survival, is now updating. Welcome to read it. Chen Qingde transmigrates to the first year of the Zhenguan era. The old and new powers of the Li Tang dynasty are now in the midst of a changing of the guard. His adoptive father, Chen Shuda, has been dismissed alongside Xiao Yu 236Reads6.9Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   🍁Transmigrated into the Tang Dynasty as the son of a powerful nobleman's concubine, during a time of transition between the old and new dynasties, see how he thrives and makes a name for himself.

9. 9 孕 Reborn After Losing My Baby: I Tore My Scumbag Ex to Shreds and Took Over the Court 孕殒重生：手撕渣男后我权倾朝 Second Spring二道春Ancient Romance269k WordsOngoing The rating was just posted and will go up! Dive in without worry! [Rebirth + punishing scumbags and face-slapping + strong heroine + political intrigue] Reborn after dying while pregnant, she’s a match for anyone in wit and strategy, crushing the scumbags and wiping out their whole family. In her previous life, she died pregnant in the freezing snow. Only in her final moments did she see the truth: Her former fiancé, the heir to a noble title, had hidden nothing but schemes beneath his gentle wo 4Reads8.8Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   A historical romance novel featuring a strong female protagonist navigating political intrigue, high-energy from start to finish! The story follows the protagonist's growth. In her previous life, she was hunted down on an icy plain, losing both her child and her unborn child. Reborn, she tears apart scumbags and scheming women, cleverly stirring up political intrigue in the court. With its unique and unconventional plot, this is definitely a worthwhile read.

10. 10 与 Playing Chess with You: The Phoenix's Power 与君奕：凰权 Jiang Tanluoyue江潭落月Ancient Romance369k WordsCompleted (The rating has only just opened and will rise later) “Political intrigue + evenly matched leads + marriage before love + traditional war for supremacy in a chaotic age + ensemble cast + powerful female lead + nation and family” In these chaotic times, even a monarch can hardly hope for a lifetime of peace. Crowned heir to the throne at six, named crown prince at eight, and enthroned at twelve, Yan Xi was the “future savior of the Yan Kingdom” foretold by an astrologer, blessed with the Purple 211Reads8.0Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A story of power struggles and intrigue between two strong characters, vying for supremacy in a chaotic world, with all characters possessing high intelligence; a captivating plot and excellent writing.

11. 11 G GB: Is the Shadow Guard Too Submissive? The Lady Takes the Lead GB：暗卫太卑微？小姐亲自折腰 It's Xiao Shang是肖尚Ancient Romance1.0M WordsOngoing [Female Top, Male Bottom, No Switching or Reversal, Plot-Driven Angst, Growing Female Lead] [Scheming, Dominant Young Lady x Humble Puppy-Like Shadow Guard] [Not Just a Two-Person Story, Slightly Female-Centric] [Bittersweet Romance, Childbirth, The Author Has Decided Who Gives Birth] The state of Qiao is bound by rigid Confucian morals, with civil officials holding the reins of power. Beneath the surface, turmoil has long been brewing. Zhi He’s original wish was simple: for the Zhi family to li 2.1kReads8.1Score270Shelves

    Reader note

    I've been reading this book recently, and the male lead's character as a bodyguard is very well-developed. He's undergone rigorous training, is accustomed to forbearance and yielding, and even when punished, his first thought is whether his master will worry. Deep down, he feels his status is lowly and unworthy of any warmth. The female lead doesn't offer condescending kindness; she shows genuine respect and understands his situation. The book delves into court intrigue and power struggles between noble families, and doesn't just focus on romance.

12. 12 两 Breaking the Deadlock Across Two Lifetimes: I Storm the Imperial Stronghold in Ancient Times 两世破局：我在古代捅皇家老巢 Unconcerned with Mountains and Rivers不争山水Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [Comedic transmigration, smart protagonists, equally matched and devoted leads, political intrigue and murder investigations] Forensic pathologist Xia Nanfeng opens her eyes to find a corpse lying beside her! Wait! Why am I poor and crippled? Did I transmigrate? In the blink of an eye, she gets herself into serious trouble and nearly kills the head of the Seventh Palace Bureau. He is cold and suspicious, closing in on her step by step. “Tell me! Who are you really?” “...” She’s just as baffled 342Reads8.2Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A high-IQ political intrigue story; the villains are very strong, but the heroes are even stronger.

13. 13 千 Qian Jinhuan 千锦欢 Yun Lingge云翎歌Ancient Romance229k WordsCompleted Completed · [A highly intelligent amnesiac fake princess x a cold, scheming prince] [Not a mindless power fantasy] [Both devoted to each other + classic historical romance + no transmigration, rebirth, or System + political intrigue + doting romance + reunion after a long separation + devotion to country and family + exclusive devotion + the one who got away + happy ending] For twenty years, the second prince of Nantang, Chu Jinyuan, has kept his guard up and trusted no one, until Hua Qianmei ar 501Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Low rating but incredibly good! Everyone's highly intelligent! Pure historical romance with political intrigue and sweet moments. The male and female leads are evenly matched, constantly outwitting and scheming against each other. No revenge scenes or manipulative characters; the focus is on the nation, the world, and the romance.

14. 14 寒 The Cold Crow Returns 寒鸦归 Ru Le如勒Ancient Romance181k WordsOngoing [Strong female lead and ensemble cast + ancient political intrigue + soul-transmigration mystery + slow-burn, evenly matched leads] Gu Zhaoning, a famed general of the Dayin Empire, died in Cold Crow Valley. The reinforcements never arrived. The military orders had been altered. Her trusted subordinates turned against her. The blade that finally pierced her body was not a Beishuo saber, but a Dayin military sword. When she opened her eyes again, she had become Gu Qingheng, the daughter who had 7Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist hides her true identity and infiltrates the Duke's mansion. Her relatives and friends gradually notice something amiss, and the scenes of mutual probing are restrained and natural. If you enjoy ancient-style plots with a sense of identity disguise and tension, you can check out this book.

15. 15 凤 The Phoenix Sings to the Ninth Heaven: Two Dragons Vie for the Phoenix 凤鸣九天：双龙争凰 Dai Yu代煜Ancient Romance267k WordsCompleted I am Shen Qinghuan, the youngest daughter of Shen Mingyuan, the prime minister of the dynasty. As for my family background, we’re among the most illustrious families in the capital. My father is the prime minister, an incorruptible official who grew up alongside His Majesty. My mother comes from a prominent family in Jiangnan and has a gentle disposition. She was also a gifted young woman in her day. My maternal grandfather was the former crown prince’s tutor, and his students are now found thr 8Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻👆🏻This is a fictional story where everyone's intelligence is being tested. The description of the emperor was so infuriating it made me stomp my feet. How could someone be so cunning and calculating?

16. 16 伏 The Marquis's Daughter Is No Brother-Obsessed Sister-in-Law. Who Says He's Her Brother? 伏弟魔世子妃，谁说那是她弟 Turned Into a Latte成了拿铁Ancient Romance943k WordsOngoing The main story is complete. The growth story of an emperor. [Evil Female Lead / Male Rivals Competing for Her / Clan Domination / Political Intrigue] Thanks to a life-saving favor owed by her ancestors, Jiang Wan marries well. On her wedding night, her groom is nowhere to be seen. Is it good fortune or disaster? She has to decide at once. A timid husband? Trick him! A shrewish mother-in-law? Stick her with a needle! A wicked younger brother? Kill him! But a living person can't just vanish 237Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Multiple male power struggles

17. 17 昭 Unblemished Radiance 昭质未亏 Egret and Jing Ling鹭与镜泠Ancient Romance351k WordsCompleted A sweet historical romance full of court intrigue, one-on-one~ ( ˘ω˘ ) Resilient young lady from a refined family × brilliant, free-spirited boy A story of a precocious, proud young princess who seems cold but is warm-hearted, and a handsome young man who can think of nothing but his beloved, as they dote on each other and stand by one another~ Until the age of twelve, Ye Zhao was a noble young lady of the marquis’s household, treasured like gold and jade. Then calamities came one after another, 5Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Yes, yes, it wasn't a disastrous start, but Aning and Ziqi really went through a lot to get to the end.

18. 18 沙 After the Goofy Guard Joined the Mansion, the Easygoing Prince's Heart Started Racing 沙雕侍卫进府后，佛系皇子心狂跳 Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance555k WordsCompleted The ratings are low right after release [madcap antics + chaotic everyday life + satisfying schemes + two powerful leads + ensemble cast + sharp-tongued] A worker's got a worker's spirit. Workers are the cream of the crop! Zhao Ouou, China's top sanda champion, accidentally transmigrates into the body of a young assassin who successfully defected from her organization in a political-strategy novel with a strong female lead. In the original story, the protagonist defected from her organization an 137Reads7.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    These are all great! You won't regret getting hooked!

19. 19 掀 Flip the Table! The Legitimate Daughter Returns to Make Her Mark! 掀桌子！归来嫡女要立威！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Political Intrigue + Feel-Good Story + Sharp Tongues + Ensemble Cast + Nation and Family + Two Strong Leads + Devoted Couple] The legitimate daughter of a general's household, who had been left to fend for herself in the countryside, was maliciously attacked. When she opened her eyes again, she had become Liu Qingyue, China's top special agent. Determined to repay her master's kindness in recognizing her abilities, Liu Qingyue accepted his dying wish, left the Taoist temple, and returned home t 8.8kReads9.1Score1.2kShelves
20. 20 羞 Humiliation? The Face-Slapping Began with the Imperial Betrothal! 羞辱？从赐婚开始便是打脸！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (Feel-good, two powerful leads, devoted couple, space, medicine, martial arts prowess, face-slapping) A top mercenary in the twenty-first century suddenly transmigrates to an alternate ancient world while on a mission, becoming an unloved illegitimate daughter of a general's household. A marriage contract and a deal transform the heroine into the wife of the “crippled prince”... With the two “princes” joining forces, the world is theirs! The Crown Prince stands in their way? Bring him down! Prin 4.8kReads9.3Score720Shelves
21. 21 十 Ignored for Eighteen Years, the Legitimate Daughter Returns to Deliver a Face-Slapping 十八年不闻不问，嫡女打脸回归！ Xuan Ying Luo玄英落Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Satisfying read + political intrigue + the fate of the nation + a pocket dimension + the martial world + medicine and poison + suspense] After accidentally transmigrating from a world polluted by nuclear fallout to an alternate realm, the heroine becomes an unwanted daughter of an official’s family. One day after transmigrating, she beats up a wicked servant and sells him off. From then on, the estate is her turf! Seven days after transmigrating, she becomes the leader of the martial world’s mo 4.3kReads9.1Score568Shelves
22. 22 重 Reborn: The Legitimate Daughter's Plot for the Throne 重生之嫡女谋妃 Also Known as Light Boat又名轻舟Ancient Romance514k WordsCompleted [Reborn Daughter + Two Strong Leads + Political Intrigue + Family and Nation] Qin Xi, courtesy name Zhaozhao, is the legitimate daughter of Lord Qin, the sitting Minister of War in Shengjing. Everyone has heard of Qin Zhaozhao of the Qin family: a beauty of incomparable grace, dazzlingly brilliant. When the Northern Rong army marched on Shengjing, Qin Xi went to battle alongside her grandfather and turned the tide. After the war, the emperor bestowed on her the title of County Lady Yongjia, and 20Reads—Score—Shelves
23. 23 悔 I Broke Off Our Engagement When He Was Poor, but Now He's a Powerful Official Who Keeps Me as His Darling 悔婚穷书生他成权臣囚我做掌中娇 Yan Jingzhen盐景珍Ancient Romance881k WordsOngoing Historical fiction History seen through a young couple’s love and heartbreak The Xining and Yuanfeng Reforms of the Northern Song Dynasty, the fall of the Northern Song + the history of Zhejiang celadon (Yue kiln to Longquan kiln) 1. The New Policies among the people (the Song-Jiao war) 2. The Yun case in Dengzhou 3. Infighting among supporters of the New Policies (the Zhang Ruoji case in Xiuzhou) 4. The Chen Shiru case (the Yuanfeng reforms) 5. Su Shi’s poetry case at the Crow Terrace 6. Longqu 32Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The villains are also highly intelligent, but unfortunately the protagonists are also unhappy, and their endings are all tragic.

24. 24 战 The God of War’s Beloved Is a Special Forces Soldier from Another World 战神的掌心娇竟是异世特种兵 Big Sister Ali阿狸姐姐Ancient Romance961k WordsCompleted The modern era’s top special forces soldier, “Night Phoenix,” dies on a mission. Her soul travels through time and she is reborn as Wei Shi, the infamous “spoiled and unruly princess” of Prince Jing’s manor in the Tianqi Kingdom. The moment she opens her eyes, she inherits the original owner’s painful memories of her past life: her father, Prince Jing, has rendered such great service that the emperor sees him as a threat. The incompetent and suspicious Emperor Jianwu joins forces with corrupt of 10.4kReads8.5Score1.4kShelves

    Reader note

    On the surface, she is a spoiled and willful princess who only loves fine clothes and jewelry. In reality, she is a meticulous special forces soldier who understands pharmacology, knows how to fight, and is good at reconnaissance and counter-reconnaissance. She uses modern knowledge to subvert the power struggles and intrigues of ancient times.

25. 25 山 A Kingdom as My Betrothal: The Cold-Faced Minister's Feisty Little Ancestress 山河为聘，冷面权臣的娇蛮小祖宗 Lan Lan Yu Chen蓝蓝雨辰Ancient Romance240k WordsCompleted A new work is here! Come read my story on Tomato Novel. I hope you’ll enjoy it. Your support is what drives me to write, and I’ll do my best to tell every story well! —Reads7.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Purely historical romance, no time travel, no rebirth, and no cheat codes! Two strong protagonists uncover each other's identities, a tale of political intrigue, detective work, feigning weakness to outwit the enemy, sweet romance, and matters of national righteousness.

26. 26 锦 Splendid Colors of the Embroidered Robe 锦衣卿色 The Lazy Cat Who Plants Trees种树的懒猫Ancient Romance707k WordsOngoing A composed young female commander VS a cold-tongued Eastern Depot Vice Commissioner She is the first woman to become a Commander of the Embroidered Guard. Still young, she enters the imperial court and faces endless doubts. On her first day back in the capital after taking up her post, she crushes a rebellion jointly plotted by the capital’s secret police and the Embroidered Guard, leaving the entire court red-faced. But the clues that emerge from the case send a chill down her spine: Corrupt of 11Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The male and female leads are both intelligent, and the villains are equally matched, with the Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard and the Commander of the Eastern Depot as equals.

27. 27 大 A Stick in the Tang Dynasty 大唐一根棍 My Name Is Wang Dabao我叫王大宝Historical1.8M WordsCompleted [Comedy + Suspense + Brainy Wish Fulfillment + Historically Grounded Tang Dynasty] A farm boy with a serious lack of virtue gradually grows into the Tang dynasty's number-one troublemaker (no, wait, strike that). He grows into a pillar that holds up the sky, a beam that spans the sea. If I'm having a good time and you're not, I'll beat you until you are. If I can't reform you, I'll cremate you. I crush foreign kingdoms, dissect the aristocratic clans, discipline princes, and slap emperors I can' 3kReads8.7Score235Shelves

    Reader note

    This is Tomato's only novel set in the late Tang Dynasty, during the reigns of Emperor Wenzong, Emperor Wuzong, and Emperor Xuanzong. It features no system, a lighthearted and humorous writing style, and every national war is based on historical events. The political intrigue also touches upon the longest period of factional strife in Chinese history. This book is a satisfying read while respecting historical accuracy; it's completed at 1.8 million words and you can read it with confidence. [Top Post]

28. 28 敌 Enemy Princess: I Can't Take It Anymore, Princes, Take More Concubines! 敌国公主：受不了，皇子多纳妾吧！ King of Fire火王之王Historical773k WordsCompleted [Harem + Flirting + Struggle for the Throne + Rousing + Political Intrigue + Conquest + No System] Xiao Chen's soul transmigrates into the body of a good-for-nothing prince. From the start, his older brother frames him, and he ends up sleeping with the enemy kingdom's supposedly hideous princess! But it turns out the princess is a peerless beauty in disguise! His brothers regret it so badly they practically break their third legs slapping them! Forced to marry the princess and exiled to the bitt 3.2kReads8.4Score374Shelves

    Reader note

    The male protagonist transmigrates to ancient times and becomes a lazy prince. Due to a staged accident, he has an intimate encounter with the princess of Bohai. Faced with the emperor's questioning and his brother's scheming, he turns the tables, not only refusing to marry into the family but also keeping the princess by his side. He then travels to Yanyun to begin his own border defense conquest.

29. 29 临 The Linxi Tribulation: The Jade Dragon Returns 临溪劫，玉龙归 Sorrow Like Water似水殇Ancient Romance32k WordsCompleted The Calamity at Linxi, the Jade Dragon Returns —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A thrilling revenge story set in ancient times, filled with political intrigue and fast-paced plot.

30. 30 拾 The Lightcatcher Pawnshop 拾光典当行 Sorrow Like Water似水殇24k WordsCompleted The Keepsake Pawnshop —Reads—Score—Shelves
31. 31 伴 A Shared Dream 伴生梦 Sixteenth Moon十六月Two Female Leads117k WordsCompleted I posted a draft. I thought “two female leads” meant there would be two heroines, so this is awkward. And why did I sign a contract? I clicked the wrong thing, seriously! It’s all ruined. 3Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Lin Shang was forced into marriage in place of another woman. She thought she was just a pawn in a chaotic world, but in this entanglement spanning a thousand years, she gradually tore away the fog of her identity and transformed from a lowly adopted daughter into someone who could take control of her own destiny.

32. 32 天 The Dragon and Phoenix of Destiny 天命龙凤 Let's Eat Hot Pot吃火锅呀Ancient Romance475k WordsCompleted [Serious drama + ensemble cast + court and martial world + love of country and family + female lead with a golden finger] The author is terrible at writing blurbs, sorry! If you enjoy this kind of story, feel free to give it a try. To save her life, Lu Wan does everything she can to send Yao Qian to the northern frontier. Sixteen years later, Emperor Li Yunshan summons the Third Prince, Li Tian, who has lived in the northern frontier, back to the capital. Rumors spread throughout the city that H 6Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Self-recommendation, political intrigue drama style, plot-driven, female protagonist's perspective.

33. 33 觉 After Awakening: A Villainess's Guide to Survival 觉醒后：恶女求生攻略指南 Jade Pillow Star玉枕星Ancient Romance178k WordsCompleted [Female supporting character's rise + beloved by all + sweet on the outside, dark within + ensemble cast] Bai Yingli, the concubine-born daughter of the Grand Commandant's household, was born with a face capable of captivating an empire, but she was so sickly that she got winded after walking a few steps. Everyone thought she was a pitiful girl in need of protection, including her white-lotus, legitimate older sister. But then she suddenly awakened and discovered she was living inside a melodra 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    "It means knowing that some people are suffering, but being unable to save everyone."

34. 34 迷 Turbulent Waves 迷涛 When the Mist Clears, the Rainbow Appears雾散虹现Urban217k WordsCompleted This is a chronicle of a grassroots official's rise and fall, a portrait of county-level officialdom in the 1990s, and, above all, a bittersweet song of an era defined by the struggle between human weakness and steadfastness. When the turbulent waters recede, the embankment still bears the upright figures of those who never bent. 15Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This novel, written in the 1980s and 90s, is a high-quality work about officialdom.

35. 35 王 Your Highness, Drink This Bowl of Meng Po Soup 王爷，干了这碗孟婆汤 Lin Shen Shi Jian Jin林深时见瑾Ancient Romance241k WordsOngoing [Tags] Historical Romance · Xianxia · Political Intrigue · Sweet Romance [Synopsis] What? You want a thousand-year-old Meng Po like me to descend to the mortal realm and serve as a bodyguard for some mortal? It's not like I kicked that blasted immortal lord down to the mortal realm on purpose. Fine, I'll be a bodyguard. But why am I being sent to catch monsters too? That costs extra, you know. I thought this was just a business trip to the mortal realm. Once I'd caught enough monsters, I could g —Reads—Score119Shelves

    Reader note

    Meng Po never believed in human love until she descended to the mortal realm to protect Prince Jing'an, and the two gradually developed feelings for each other. Amidst the turmoil within the Prince's palace, demonic beasts secretly plotted their attack. After overcoming several hardships together, they were met with a cold, hard letter of divorce.

36. 36 重 Reborn to Marry an Old Widower, Pampered to Madness 重生嫁给老鳏夫，宠疯 A Page of Fireworks一纸烟火Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Political intrigue, ensemble cast, sweet romance, palace intrigue, revenge, taking down villains, a reborn princess marries the brother-in-law she had in her previous life and joins him in stirring up the court] In her previous life, Mu Yunlang was the least favored princess of the Great Qian dynasty, yet she married Shen Hongnian, the top-scoring candidate in the palace examinations, whom every noblewoman in the capital wanted to wed. She thought fate had finally smiled upon her. Little did sh 6.2kReads8.6Score814Shelves

    Reader note

    A reborn princess, together with her brother-in-law from her past life, stirs up a storm in the imperial court.

37. 37 太 The Crown Princess Is Reborn 太子妃她重生了 Wei Yu'an卫屿安Ancient Romance184k WordsCompleted My new work is out! Please come read it on Tomato Novel. I hope you enjoy it. Your support motivates me to write, and I’ll do my best to tell every story well! 9Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Hahaha

38. 38 历 The Complete Collection of Courtly Tales Through the Ages 历代宫廷演义全集 Xu Xiaotian许啸天Historical2.0M WordsCompleted Xu Xiaotian brings the secret histories of the Ming, Qing, and Tang courts to life in the style of a novel: the bloodshed of the Nine Princes’ struggle for the throne, Wu Zetian’s political schemes, and the tragic final days of the Chongzhen Emperor... The book has the solid historical foundations of a meticulously researched account, enlivened with the colorful flesh and blood of historical fiction. More vivid than official histories, yet more rigorous than tales of the past, it is an ancient v 137Reads9.5Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Good historical articles

39. 39 慈 The Tale of Empress Dowager Cixi 慈禧太后演义 Cai Dongfan蔡东藩Historical226k WordsCompleted This book offers a detailed account of Cixi’s life, from her birth and entry into the imperial palace to her rule from behind the curtain, her decades wielding power over the Qing dynasty, and her death. It is not only literary and highly readable, but also of some value as a reference for historical research. 12Reads9.4Score—Shelves
40. 40 明 Tales of the Sixteen Reigns of the Ming Court 明宫十六朝演义 Xu Xiaotian许啸天Historical751k WordsCompleted The Romance of the Sixteen Reigns of the Ming Court delves into the imperial palace, recounting the love and enmity between emperors and their consorts, while ranging widely across history to survey the twists and turns of feudal dynasties. Understand this series, and you will understand the court; understand the court, and you will understand history; understand history, and the realities of the world will become clear to you. 78Reads9.4Score—Shelves
41. 41 键 Yang Tinghe on the Keyboard 键盘上的杨廷和 Little Bao Is So Nice小宝很奈斯Historical481k WordsCompleted [Yang Tinghe | Male-Centered Lead | Historical Epic | Romance and Marriage | Political Intrigue] Yang Tinghe, grand secretary of the Ming dynasty, recounts his romantic and political adventures in modern language, with a playful take on his own life. [Matchmaking Trip to Yunnan] Help Mu Cong put down the Xundian rebellion and bring the region under direct administration. [Wedding Night] My concubine climbed into my bed... [The Truth About Grain Transport] Men and women alike are beheaded. [The 14Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A first-person narrative masterpiece by a top-tier literary PhD from a 985 university. The story of Yang Tinghe, the Grand Secretary of the Ming Dynasty, and his beloved son, Yang Shen, a top scholar in the imperial examinations [Already recommended, completed].

42. 42 萨 Sardo 萨尔多 A Chirping Bird一只啼鸟Eastern Fantasy236k WordsCompleted This book is not suitable for children! As the Sacred Snow Mountain teeters on the brink of collapse, a young boy from the Saldo tribe unexpectedly awakens the “Eye of the Ancestors,” guarded by his people for a thousand years, and inherits the cultivation legacy left behind by the Ice River Immortal. He leads the remnants of the Saldo tribe on a deadly migration, fighting hordes of demon beasts on the Crescent Grassland, standing up to the brutal Wolf-Herding Demon Clan, forging alliances with 169Reads8.6Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommended! A masterpiece of political intrigue.

43. 43 谋 Scheming for a Beauty 谋红颜 Big and Little Orange Cats大小橘猫Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted A flood swept away Ru Yu's mother. Everyone said it was a natural disaster, but she alone knew for certain that someone had lowered the iron floodgate with a sneer as the waters surged in. To uncover the mystery behind it, she resolutely descended from Mount Kuocang. Making herself a pawn, she stepped into the treacherous game of power unfolding across the land. 37Reads8.8Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Ancient Chinese romance novels, political intrigue and war

44. 44 错 A Mistake, A Meeting 错，相逢 Big and Little Orange Cats大小橘猫Ancient Romance573k WordsCompleted That year, I first came into the world, and the balance of power across the realm was suddenly overturned in silence. The new emperor of Xilu ascended the throne, determined to bring about reforms. In Xidan, the young Emperor Yuan Xi also inherited the throne that same year. They all said I smiled at everyone from the time I was little. Yet at the grandest of enthronement banquets, I looked up and saw a handsome young man in imperial robes, with clear, bright features, and burst into tears. He p 35Reads8.6Score—Shelves
45. 45 云 Cloud Terrace Stratagem 云台策 Wind and Blossoms by the Yangliu River杨柳河的风椛Ancient Romance374k WordsOngoing [Slow-paced + classical historical romance + court intrigue and power struggles + three generations of heroines] The flames of war illuminate red robes, while an abacus determines the fate of the realm: an epic tale of three generations of remarkable women. [Runaway heiress × stone-faced general] × [Genius female chancellor × young marshal forged on the battlefield] When the beloved daughter of Jiangnan’s wealthiest merchant meets a battle-hardened general who rose from humble beginnings, they m 8Reads8.0Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A must-read for fans of ancient Chinese romance! A runaway heiress and a cold-faced general clash amidst power struggles, yet their love remains undeniable. A poignant tale of love, hate, and revenge.

46. 46 锦 Schemes at the Brocade Banquet 锦筵谋 Sweet Dream Feather甜梦羽Ancient Romance602k WordsCompleted From the pinnacle of Michelin cuisine to the hell of household intrigue, all it took was one explosion. Lin Wanyi, an internationally renowned top chef, opens her eyes to find she's become the most wicked third young madam of the Su family in the Qing Dynasty. From the start, she's in a hopeless situation: Her husband despises her, her mother-in-law wants to divorce her, and the servants look down on her. On top of that, her sister-in-law is a “born heroine,” doted on by the entire household, s 327Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    These two political intrigue novels are intellectually stimulating and addictive: "The Scheme of the Brocade Banquet": A modern woman travels back in time to ancient times and uses modern logic to navigate the deep palace step by step. She is not driven by love or engages in female rivalry; she relies entirely on her skills and intelligence to devise a scheme. The political intrigue is intricately linked. Lord Bao, is your crescent moon a sticker?": Bao Zheng, who is pierced by two swords Solving cases using modern criminal investigation thinking , The plot is solid and full of energy.

47. 47 包 Lord Bao, Is That Crescent Moon Painted On? 包大人，你的月牙是贴的吗？ Sweet Dream Feather甜梦羽Historical284k WordsCompleted I'm a modern high school student who fancies himself Bao Qingtian, and I've transmigrated into the Northern Song as the celebrated official Bao Zheng. From the start, I'm faced with three questions: I can't write, I can't judge cases, and my face isn't even dark! To keep my identity from being exposed, I smear ink on my face and draw a crescent moon with lime. I planned to lie low and muddle through, but I end up becoming a master detective. As my reputation keeps growing, Gongsun Ce can't stop 37Reads—Score—Shelves
48. 48 帝 The Imperial Princess's Stratagem: Within and Beyond the Mountains and Rivers 帝姬策之山河表里 Cao Mengyun曹孟云Ancient Romance160k WordsOngoing Su Huanhuan transmigrated. The moment she opened her eyes, the air was thick with danger and crisis lurked everywhere. Thankfully... She wasn't going solo. First things first, she'd find the other five transmigrated companions just like her. In Su Huanhuan's eyes ✪ω✪, the script Lingjing had given her was... From princess to empress: I sweep across the eight corners of the world with modern knowledge. But in her five companions' eyes ಥ_ಥ, the script was cl 20Reads—Score123Shelves

    Reader note

    It not only depicts power struggles but also the suffering of ordinary people, such as the imprisoned daughter of a disgraced official and children struggling at the bottom of society. It shows the different ways people live in a chaotic world, and the characters' emotions are portrayed very delicately.

49. 49 穿 The Transmigrated City Lord 穿越女城主 Tianheng Palace天珩宫Ancient Romance647k WordsOngoing [Love triangle, slow burn, taking things one step at a time! The emotional entanglements of adults: the first male lead is passionate and fixated, while the second is clever and in control. The second male lead wins her heart.] [A beauty skilled in political intrigue! She pursues an official career, rises to a high position, and remains calm and self-possessed, leaving a prince heartbroken.] She has always believed that staying independent and relying on no one is the safest way to survive. But 27Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist is a master strategist, far-sighted, and insightful. She steadily advances in her career, remaining calm and composed, leaving the prince bewildered.

50. 50 墨 The Ink Moon Halberd: Love and Revenge in the Western Regions 墨月戟：西域情仇 White Rice Dumpling白水粽Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [No AI, entirely written by hand; court intrigue and an ensemble cast, with a traditional plot-driven narrative] [Subtle emotions, sweeping warfare, vivid characters] Beyond Yumen Pass lie the great desert and the Tianshan Mountains. With half Han heritage and half Hu blood, he was born amid the flames of a chaotic age, as the Han and the Xiongnu fought over the Western Regions. In a dreamlike lifetime, he saved the Cheshi princess and uncovered the fated bond between them as husband and wife in 158Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Political intrigue, romance, family and country, war

Other lists with With Whom Will the Clouds Finally Rest?