Looking for High-Quality Historical Fiction. No Mindless Power Trips or Brain-Dead Plotting 求高质量历史文，不要无脑爽文，降智的也不要来

1. 801 大 The Ming Dynasty (2 Volumes) 大明王朝（共2册） Liu Heping刘和平Historical653k WordsCompleted The novel of the hit drama Ming Dynasty 1566, rated 9.5 on Douban, is essential reading for Taiwan’s political circles and a political reference book for Singapore’s cabinet. It is the celebrated work of Liu Heping, screenwriter of Yongzheng Dynasty and author of No War in Peking. Centered on the downfall of the powerful official Yan Song, the book tells the gripping story of a complex anti-corruption campaign in the Ming Dynasty. It uncovers the mystery behind Jiajing, one of the most unconvent 43.8kReads9.6Score8kShelves

   Reader note

   I like historical fiction, but not alternate history; I like time travel, but not cheat codes; I like a tech tree, but not a system.

2. 802 寿 Li Chang, Prince of Shou: Li Longji, It's Time for You to Die 寿王李琩：请李隆基归天 Wandering Big Brother流浪哥哥Historical568k WordsCompleted In the twenty-third year of the Kaiyuan era, Li Longji believes that no one can surpass his achievements in civil governance or military prowess. His glorious accomplishments are unmatched, and he begins to indulge in extravagant pleasures. Just then, Li Linfu, Yang Guozhong, An Lushan, and other demons run rampant. Prince Shou, Li Mao, rises against the odds. He swears to preserve this magnificent Tang dynasty. And to keep his wife, Yang Yuhuan, by his side. To do so, he is willing to send Li L 3.1kReads8.5Score164Shelves
3. 803 天 The Sky Screen Livestreams the Jingnan Campaign: Zhu Di, Don't Run! 天幕直播靖难，朱棣你别跑！ Old Zhang5592老张5592Historical1.3M WordsCompleted On the night of the Mid-Autumn Banquet in the thirteenth year of Hongwu, a strange vision appeared in the sky. A chilling sky screen announced the future: Zhu Yuanzhang would die, and Crown Prince Zhu Yunwen would ascend the throne. The jade cup slipped from Zhu Yuanzhang’s hands and shattered. “Where’s Biao’er? Where is my Biao’er?!” Zhu Biao’s face turned deathly pale, while the young Zhu Xiongying looked around in bewilderment. In a side hall, Lü’s heart pounded like a drum as the icy gaze of 3kReads6.8Score101Shelves
4. 804 曾 Zeng Guofan: A Distinguished Statesman Who Revived the Late Qing 曾国藩：晚清中兴名臣 Good Fortune and Happiness Beijing吉祥如意北京Historical377k WordsCompleted Written in an accessible style, this book recounts the remarkable life of Zeng Guofan, the foremost statesman of the late Qing revival. It begins with a baby's cries in a farming household in Xiangxiang in 1811, then follows his grueling path through the imperial examinations. He fails four times but keeps studying until, at twenty-seven, he finally enters the Hanlin Academy. As a capital official, he adheres to the principles of self-cultivation and holds fast to his convictions amid court intr 7.9kReads7.9Score355Shelves

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   Engaging biographies of historical figures: Zeng Guofan, Zuo Zongtang, and Li Hongzhang. [Heart][heart]

5. 805 章 Empress Zhangde: From Minister's Daughter to Regent Dowager 章德皇后：从罪臣之女到临朝太后 Where Have We Ever Seen Him Beneath the Trees林下何曾见Ancient Romance711k WordsOngoing She once believed that by restraining herself and observing propriety, she could find peace in the deep palace. Dou Shu, daughter of a convicted minister, enters the palace and takes Empress Dowager Ma, famed for her virtue, as her example. She studies, learns etiquette, and exercises caution and self-discipline. Then she discovers that even Empress Dowager Ma's selflessness has an edge: she endures when there is no opportunity, but seizes one when it comes. At last, Dou Shu understands that vi 91Reads—Score—Shelves

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   A historical drama of power struggles in the early Eastern Han Dynasty, the first of the six empress dowagers who ruled as regents in the Eastern Han Dynasty, the first case of empress dowagers interfering in politics with their relatives, and a cause of the chaos of the Three Kingdoms period.

6. 806 左 Zuo Zongtang: The Late Qing Dynasty's Last Hawk 左宗棠：晚清最后的鹰派 Good Fortune and Happiness Beijing吉祥如意北京Historical271k WordsCompleted At its heart, this book is about a practical-minded reformer amid the upheavals of the late Qing dynasty. Spanning the years from 1812 to 1885, it vividly portrays the extraordinary life of Zuo Zongtang, from a poor scholar in Xiangyin to a high-ranking provincial official. The book recounts his early studies of statecraft and his years of obscurity after failing the metropolitan examination three times. It also details his military career: raising the Chu Army to suppress the Taiping Rebellion 13.3kReads8.6Score780Shelves
7. 807 宁 Ning Yan: When Women Rule the Roost 宁兖，牝鸡司晨 Books Bring True Wealth有书真富贵Historical167k WordsOngoing [Ensemble political intrigue + entrusted heir + factional strife + expansion of the realm + redressing an old injustice] [Wronged powerful minister male lead x emperor female lead disguised as a man] Also known as "After I Blundered into the Imperial Family, I Discovered I Was the Imperial Family" On a winter night in the seventh year of Chengxu, Emperor Zhao Ning Fu suddenly went mad. Wearing the robes of his favorite consort, Yan, he climbed the bell tower and rang the funeral bell before fall 173Reads—Score104Shelves

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   A complex ensemble cast embodying political intrigue, with everyone displaying high intelligence. The story features elements of entrusting the heir to a prince, factional struggles, territorial expansion, seeking justice for old cases, and counter-espionage. There's no time travel, and no supporting characters with diminished intelligence. Alternative title: "After Accidentally Entering the Imperial Family, I Discovered I Am the Imperial Family."

8. 808 三 The Three Kingdoms: The Mecha Wars 三国之机甲战纪 Sugarwater Bro Who Loves Mung Beans爱吃绿豆的糖水哥Historical600k WordsCompleted After transmigrating as Liu Bei, he earns a reputation as the greatest warlord under heaven and bonds with a powerful Nine-Turn Mecha Spirit. Along the way, Master Shuijing also pledges himself to him, while strategists like Zhuge Liang, Xu Shu, and Pang Tong gather at his side. But a peerless demon star stands in his way. Through battle after battle, he ultimately unifies the Han. What he doesn’t know is that the peerless demon star is... someone Liu Bei would never have suspected. A high-marti 11Reads—Score—Shelves

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   This is a high-fashion version of the Three Kingdoms storyline. The early plot leans towards realistic history, while the mid-game sees Liu Bei recruiting Zhuge Liang to break the alliance between Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, and Sun Quan. It features mecha, magical artifacts, combat skills, and strategic battles. Experience a unique Three Kingdoms style!

9. 809 李 Li Hongzhang: The Plasterer of the Qing Empire 李鸿章：大清帝国的裱糊匠 Good Fortune and Happiness Beijing吉祥如意北京Historical626k WordsCompleted This is a sweeping historical portrait of Li Hongzhang's life, built around the metaphor of “learning to steer on a broken ship.” Beginning with a newborn's cries in the Li family home in Luzhou in 1823 and ending with his lonely final days at Xianliang Temple in 1901, the book follows the course of time to recreate the turbulent life of this high-ranking official of the late Qing. He was an ambitious scholar pursuing success in the imperial examinations, who honed his character under Zeng Guofa 3.3kReads7.9Score216Shelves
10. 810 水 Water Margin: Reborn in Zhu Biao, I Came Home to Find My Entire Family Slaughtered 水浒：魂穿祝彪，出门被屠灭满门 Fog Rising on a Snowy Day雪天起雾Historical292k WordsOngoing Zhang Yu was a new office worker who didn’t even dare talk back to his team leader. One cup of coffee during overtime sent him into the world of Water Margin. When he woke up, he was galloping on horseback through a rainstorm in the late Northern Song Dynasty. Behind him were Liangshan Marsh’s pursuers. He carried Zhu Biao’s wounds, and his mind was filled with the bloody images from the massacre of the Zhu family estate: people hoisted into the air on spears, hacked into three pieces by battle- 6Reads—Score—Shelves

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    This is a really good book! You should check it out!

11. 811 划 The Great Fish That Sailed Through Time and Space 划过时空的大鱼 Big Fish No. 2大鱼二号Historical503k WordsCompleted I woke to find myself in a vast, boundless grassland... I had no idea that I was at the end of the Eastern Han dynasty... The half-sunken sun was as red as blood, as though foreshadowing the tragic scene that was about to unfold! The enemy still hadn't launched a direct attack, but the killing intent on the battlefield had already congealed into something solid. The immense pressure left me unable to breathe! ...Only the last sliver remained, hanging over the distant peak of Mount S 8Reads—Score—Shelves

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    The quality is superb, the writing is so realistic, and the details about ancient times are so detailed that I suspect the author might have actually traveled through time. Moreover, the entire story revolves around an ordinary person who travels back in time, without any special abilities or plot devices. It truly feels like returning to ancient times; the writing is incredibly authentic.

12. 812 法 Lord of France 法兰西之主 Yi Jie意戒Historical254k WordsOngoing Reborn during the French Revolution, he becomes the ten-year-old orphan Louis XVII, fresh from escaping prison. In this mad age of the guillotine, the abandoned crown prince has no choice but to grow up fast. Watch him reclaim his rightful throne under the name of a tyrant's last surviving heir and be crowned ruler of France! 315Reads—Score—Shelves

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    The Age of Sail, naval battles, political intrigue, the struggle for supremacy, Napoleon's struggle against fate... Louis XVII's quest for restoration...

13. 813 开 From the Start, I Had a Book of Prophecies, But I Used It to Find a Wife 开局一本推背图，我却拿来找娘子 Don't Laugh at the Little Fools莫笑宵小Historical114k WordsOngoing [Transmigration, alternate history, no System, face-slapping] Xiao Ce, an army physician, transmigrates to the Great Zhou and becomes a spoiled young lord of a marquis's household. Before his grandfather passes away, he leaves him a copy of the Tui Bei Tu. This divine book, capable of glimpsing opportunities and fortunes, becomes the target of every faction. Others want to use the Tui Bei Tu to seize the realm. Xiao Ce, however, just wants to see what his future wife looks like. “Magic Book, oh, 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This new book is pretty good. The main character is somewhat funny, and the use of the Tui Bei Tu (a Chinese prophetic text) in the plot is quite novel. Overall, it's similar in style to "The Runaway Prince Consort," both involving outsmarting opponents.

14. 814 科 The Imperial Exams: From Poor Scholar to Shocking the Entire Court 科举：从寒门书生到惊爆满朝文武 Little Zhang Under the Night Lamp夜灯下的小张Historical166k WordsOngoing (Imperial examinations + farming + no System + transmigration) (Has a CP; the male lead is devoted and never flirts around) Though Landowner Lin's family is fabulously wealthy, every member of the clan is short, plump, and sturdy, looking like they were born lucky! But his son, Lin Bei, is strikingly handsome, tall and elegant, and stands out in any crowd. Gazing at his reflection in the water, Lin Bei couldn't help sighing: A man who isn't charming in his youth has wasted it. His wet nurse 873Reads—Score111Shelves

    Reader note

    Super beautiful ancient style

15. 815 白 White Horse, Silver Spear 白马银枪 Steadfast Guardian韧守Historical362k WordsCompleted Transmigrating as Zhao Yun’s cousin, he was kidnapped by bandits right from the start. Zhao Tian, an engineering graduate who died suddenly after working 996 hours, opened his eyes in the late Eastern Han dynasty. The good news: his cousin was named Zhao Yun. The bad news: Zhao Yun was only fourteen and hadn’t grown into his full height. The worse news: the two of them had been kidnapped by bandits, who demanded a ransom of two thousand shi of grain. Their family couldn’t possibly raise that muc 20Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    [Admiration][Admiration][Admiration][Admiration][Admiration][Admiration]

16. 816 天 Sky Screen: Ranking the Ten Greatest Emperors of All Time 天幕：盘点十大千古一帝 Egg Little Tornado鸡蛋小龙卷Historical84k WordsOngoing Zhu Yuanzhang: I started out with nothing but a bowl, drove out the northern invaders, and restored China. Just look at how impressive my achievements are. Ying Zheng: I founded a unified empire, conquered the Six States, standardized vehicles and script. Naturally, I’m number one… 434Reads—Score—Shelves

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    Ancient Emperor's Writings

17. 817 别 Stop Acting! You’re Really Empresses?! 别演了！你们真是女帝？！ Overseeing the World督师天下Historical56k WordsOngoing [Historical What-If + Multiple Heroines + Empress Love Triangle Showdowns + Gap Moe + Hilarious Power Fantasy] (Warning: These empresses can not only make money, but also act cute, and even… want to have your baby?) Li Ming, a top programmer, downloaded an “immersive murder-mystery roleplay” app to ease his anxiety about going bald from working 996. To unwind, he played life coach to a few online friends who were “too deep in character” every day: He taught “Chang’an Moonlight” how to force her —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Brothers, check this out! It's about helping Li Shimin and Ma Xiuying seize power—the plot is incredibly imaginative. The story starts with him instigating Ma Xiuying to kill Zhu Yuanzhang. He teaches Li Shimin to force his father to rebel. All the bad things are done by the male protagonist, who, however, thinks he's playing a murder mystery game.

18. 818 穿 Transmigrated to the End of the Yuan Dynasty, I Forge an Imperial Edict to Pacify Henan 穿越元末，我矫诏镇河南 Fragrant in the Peach Blossom Spring桃花源里香Historical109k WordsCompleted Transmigrated into the fifth year of the Zhiyuan era under the Yuan dynasty, Fan Mengduan is a low-ranking clerk in Bianliang. Above him, Mongol officials bully and exploit the people. Below him, the common folk are crushed by harsh taxes. They can endure no more, and neither can he. Though only a humble functionary, he forges a secret edict sealed in a wax pill, impersonates an imperial envoy, and wipes out the top power brokers of Henan Province in a single night. He seals off the Yellow River 11Reads—Score—Shelves

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    As the mists of history are gradually lifted, a lowly official transforms into a highly sought-after talent. The Yuan Dynasty's grand vision grows ever larger. If you were in this situation, what would you do? Would you usher in a golden age for the Yuan Dynasty? Or would you directly create an ideal world? Or would you fail and fade into the dust of history? Success in history is never accidental; there is always a specific inevitability behind it!

19. 819 九 The Ninth-Rank House Servant 九品家丁 A Single Sound了了一声Historical299k WordsOngoing After transmigrating to the Great Yong Dynasty, Chen Fan became the lowliest ninth-rank servant in the Su residence. He planned to earn money by selling poetry, then devote himself to training in arena swordsmanship. Once he had mastered martial arts, he would leave and make his escape. But fate had other plans. Opportunities to rise through the ranks, from eighth to seventh to fifth, came one after another. Just as he thought his hard days were over and his future was finally looking brighte 12.1kReads7.0Score868Shelves

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    Transmigrating to the Great Yong Dynasty, Chen Fan finds himself relegated to the lowest rank of a ninth-grade servant in the Su family. He initially plans to accumulate wealth by selling his poetry and prose, then dedicate himself to honing his swordsmanship in the arena, intending to escape once he has mastered the art. However, fate intervenes, and opportunities for advancement—eighth, seventh, fifth grade—follow one after another. Just when he believes his hard times are over and his future is looking bright, the Su family is unfortunately drawn into the brutal struggle for the throne among the princes. Under the cover of darkness, the patriarch orders Chen Fan to escort the Su family's young master and young mistress to the capital… This ninth-grade servant, who rose from humble beginnings, is about to stir up a storm in the court and shake the vast Great Yong Dynasty!

20. 820 纨 The Spoiled Young Heir Is Hard to Handle 纨绔世子不好当 Fei Shuo Mo Shu菲硕莫薯Historical2.8M WordsCompleted [Comedy + farming + no System] The good news: He wakes up in the body of a young lord in a prince's manor. The bad news: His young-lord experience has only three days left. Even better news: The old emperor favors him. Even worse news: The old emperor is about to abdicate. Qi Ye secretly vows, “I'll decide my own fate. Anyone who gets tricked again is a dog!” New Emperor: “Get down on your knees. I'm begging you for a favor: get me some pocket money.” Qi Ye: “Your Majesty, don't push me too far! 19.3kReads8.7Score2kShelves

    Reader note

    The first book is truly amazing, a must-read! The content is not only interesting, but the character development is also superb. You can feel the unique traits of each character – that's my primary criterion for recommending a book. A good book is one where the characters become flesh-and-blood individuals in your mind. The only downside is the ending – I wanted to know so much, but I was very satisfied! The second book, though, is still ongoing. I haven't read it recently, but the parts I did read were excellent and incredibly mind-bending, focusing on strategy and confrontation. It's all about tactics and can stimulate your thinking – perfect for engaging your brain! If you're tired of light novels, this is definitely worth considering!

21. 821 三 The Revolt of the Three Feudatories: From the Start, I Bet Everything on Beijing 三藩之乱：开局梭哈北京城 Fat Fish Fears No Fire胖鱼不怕火Historical899k WordsCompleted [The protagonist is Han Chinese, becomes emperor, fights to overthrow the Qing, and kills decisively. Saints, please do not click.] During the Revolt of the Three Feudatories, just as Kangxi was overwhelmed with trouble, I, Galdan, the new taiji of the Dzungar Mongols, wagered the lives of my entire tribe from the start! Leading the sharpest cavalry on the grasslands and every tribe that could ride, I crossed southern Mongolia and charged straight for Beijing to slap Kangxi in the face. After re 10.1kReads7.8Score574Shelves

    Reader note

    These six books are all quite good; you can read them if you're looking for something to read.

22. 822 大 The Ballad of the Great Yi Dragon 大翊龙吟录 Dust on My Clothes衣上风尘Historical2.3M WordsOngoing [Alternate History + Ensemble Cast + Factions vying for supremacy + Military Strategy and Political Intrigue + Multiple Heroines] The old dynasty has fallen, the Great Yi has been founded, and the four frontiers remain unsettled. Luo Wuchen, a respectable young man, is exiled six thousand li to the frontier after killing someone in self-defense. Thus begins his extraordinary and eventful life. He has sworn brothers who stand shoulder to shoulder with him, accompanying him all the way and never a 1.5kReads6.5Score130Shelves

    Reader note

    A true masterpiece, worth reading with a calm mind; it's definitely a good book that's been overshadowed by its popularity.

23. 823 朕 I, Empress Hexi, Reborn and Done Saving the Ungrateful 朕，和熹女君，重生不扶白眼狼 Miss Xingci星辞小姐Ancient Romance326k WordsOngoing At fifteen, Deng Sui entered the palace. At twenty-two, she was made empress, and at twenty-five, she ruled as regent. For sixteen years, Deng Sui safeguarded the Han empire, only to be sent to her death by the young emperor she had personally supported. Her entire family was purged, and her loyal confidants died tragic deaths, full of resentment. Reborn, she returned to the year of the selection. In this life, Deng Sui seeks only to defy fate and change her destiny: Protect the emperor, who is 1.1kReads—Score112Shelves

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    Keywords: Eastern Han Dynasty, Empress's Crown, Yongyuan Era of Prosperity, Cai Lun, Zhang Heng, a galaxy of famous ministers, the most brilliant era. No lowbrow humor, no melodramatic clichés, you deserve it.

24. 824 南 The Struggle for the North and South 南北逐鹿记 Gao Tingting高听听Historical582k WordsOngoing No System, no transmigration, just an alternate-history novel. See how a streetwise youth rises from the corners of the jianghu to the heights of the imperial court, and how his street-level mindset transforms into the art of ruling like an emperor. 30Reads—Score156Shelves

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    A captivating historical novel with no system or time travel elements. It's an alternate history story about a street urchin rising from humble beginnings to the highest echelons of the court! Super good, super good, super good novel! Oh my god, the best book ever! [Licking screen][vomiting][shocked][fear][sending hearts][rolling eyes]

25. 825 流 The Rogue Son-in-Law: The Empress's Courtier 流氓赘婿：女帝裙下臣 Handsome Young Man俊俏少年Historical3.4M WordsCompleted After transmigrating into a fictional world, I became a lowly live-in son-in-law. I’d planned to drink tea, fish, flirt with women, listen to opera, and enjoy a laid-back life, but... “Husband, help me!” “Dear son-in-law, help me!” “Young master, help me!” “Beloved minister, help me!” Fine, I guess I won’t be able to relax. It’s up to me to protect this realm. So Zhou Yuan investigates major cases, reforms the bureaucracy, suppresses rebellions, opens sea routes, and expands the frontier... He t 31.5kReads9.2Score3.6kShelves
26. 826 继 Successor Empress 继后 Cai Wangwang菜汪汪Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted The Noble Consort was favored, the Worthy Consort bore a son, the Bright Etiquette was the emperor’s white moonlight, and the Beautiful Consort was his cinnabar mole. Every other concubine had her own talents and charms. It was a whole garden in full bloom. So who was our protagonist? The unfavored empress, with no children and no powerful family backing. Great. Why did this plot feel so familiar? Never mind. On the first day Zhao Wumian transmigrated here, she decided to lie flat. Compete for t 82.7kReads9.5Score9.2kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommended!!! (⛔Readers who prefer clean-cut romance should proceed with caution) Main points: The male and female leads are intelligent, the plot is reasonable and conforms to ancient logic, the era is fictional, thought-provoking, the dialogue is very interesting, it's a slice-of-life story, the female lead is a very talented writer, and there are many famous quotes. First of all, I really, really, really love the author's writing style!!! It's very comfortable and warm to read, yet it doesn't lack the necessary elements, such as palace intrigue, personal growth, and the evolution of the dynasty. Of course, it focuses more on the daily lives of the male and female leads and the harem. Although this novel mainly tells the story of the female lead's life as an empress after traveling to ancient times, it depicts the emperor's (the male lead's) ancient thoughts and beliefs, and the duties of an emperor in a normal way. It doesn't absurdly dismiss the harem or favor one empress just because the female lead is special to him (emperors have duties related to procreation). Moreover, the female lead is erudite and intelligent, a very wise time traveler and empress. The author's writing is also very delicate, although many supporting characters are only briefly mentioned. It was a story that, while memorable, also left an impression, and those forgotten faded like dust in the river of history. This novel truly depicted the lives of many people. If we look at the events from different perspectives and from different viewpoints, we realize they weren't entirely wrong. They were simply forced to act due to the constraints of their social status, or the helplessness of their circumstances. Their striving for advancement despite their inappropriate identities led to their eventual fates. It could be said that many were caught in the middle of a situation, unable to see clearly, and by the time they realized it, they had been trapped for so long that they couldn't escape. Of course, some were genuinely evil. The author's writing is truly excellent; each character seems to possess their own unique soul, rather than simply following the author's pen. I think the extra chapters were particularly well-written! He truly took care of everyone, depicting their endings. Some endings were joyful, some regretful, some poignant, some comfortable, some free, and some tearful—each found their own place. I think they all lived their own lives. Some were trapped by their past, unable to forget, leading to mediocrity; others lived carefree and joyful lives; some were unable to achieve fulfillment due to regrets from their youth; others lived contentedly; some lived a life of loving harmony; and some spent their lives in a temple with ancient Buddhas. It's truly poignant. Some authors' writing is truly thought-provoking, like the part about Princess Anguo, which reminded me of Princess Wencheng of the Han Dynasty. Was she like that back then...? Although she was a woman who sacrificed herself for "peace" between nations, she was still happy in her later years. The author truly used a simple and unadorned style to write a story that is thought-provoking, which I really like. And then there's Princess Chang'an, Yu Zhu'er. She was truly wonderful. Influenced by her mother, she made a good start for women by founding a girls' school. Suddenly, I thought about how our ancestors also went through such difficult times. Reading this part really made me want to cry. Our ancestors were truly great. The beginning was difficult, and although implementing it was difficult afterward, at least there were precedents... Sigh... Actually, I personally think the portrayal of the male and female leads is excellent (⛔⛔⛔Readers who prefer virginity-focused stories, please do not read⛔⛔⛔). Firstly, for the male lead, he did what an emperor should do. He hadn't experienced the influence of modern thought; he was just an emperor. There were many things that couldn't be abolished simply because of favoritism towards the female lead (the empress). In that era, there were many considerations. In summary, it was ancient times, and we can't judge him with modern thinking (the author really wrote this very well!!!). As for the female lead, I personally think she's a truly wise person. She maintains her integrity, knows how to protect herself, and is also adept at planning. She's resourceful, decisive, and intelligent—a top-notch individual, unaffected by external influences. Although many criticize her for following the crowd and achieving nothing, considering her situation, adapting to local customs was the best and quickest way. In that era and in her position, if she had been unconventional or attempted major reforms, she would likely have met a terrible end. I think the author did an excellent job in this aspect. Moreover, the female lead mostly prevented problems at their root, such as ensuring that all the concubines had children, thus eliminating the need to harm offspring. Because there were so many offspring, her actions also benefited many people, like a gentle rain nourishing the era and helping to improve many things. So, I genuinely love the female lead! And I want to say that many characters are quite lovable, such as Consort He, Old Lu, Nian Nian, the Tenth Prince, and of course, our Second Prince!!! The Second Prince has a witty and sarcastic way of speaking, which I love!!! Without him as a "lubricant," this novel would lack its soul. The author is incredibly meticulous; he even wrote about Xiaobai's happy life accompanying his owner! (I envy the dog's life!) Finally, I genuinely didn't expect that the two versions of Wumian—one from ancient times and the other from modern times—would actually meet and talk in the museum of the Dayin Dynasty! The author truly has a complete story! And the Wumian from ancient times finally finds her own happiness in the modern world. After all, with her temperament, she's not suited to be an empress, as you could see from the beginning. It's good that she's in the modern world! Okay~ that's all for my review~ I'll add more later if I think of anything else. I really love the author! His writing seems to have a soul; the prose is incredibly delicate, and the scenes emerge from the words alone. He touches on the surface, leaving much to the imagination, and he's also adept at writing about each person's life from different perspectives. Through other people's viewpoints, you can glimpse their lives and endings—it's wonderful! Some things were mentioned only briefly, but they left room for imagination. I especially loved the author's last line in the extra chapter about Lao Lü: "No matter how bitter, one should always remember the sweet." Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This book is definitely worth reading! ❤️❤️❤️

27. 827 穿 I Transmigrated as A Dou, and Liu Bei Saw Through Me from the Start 穿越阿斗，开局被刘备识破 Han Wei汉卫Historical1.7M WordsCompleted Publication deal negotiations are underway. It wasn’t until that supposedly hopeless Adou unified the Three Kingdoms that Zhuge Liang realized the Liu Shan before him was an impostor. What he didn’t know was that Liu Bei had seen through everything long ago, yet still supported Adou’s ascension to the throne as emperor. Father and son join forces to campaign east against Sun Quan, march north against Cao Cao, expand into the South Seas, conquer Japan, seize the grasslands, pacify the Western Reg 5.7kReads8.8Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    This is absolutely a legendary historical novel by Tomato, highly recommended by countless people. Both the writing style and the plot are flawless, with no dull moments or flaws. My top recommendation.

28. 828 穿 Transmigrating to the Late Ming: From Tightening Screws to Farming 穿越明末：从打螺丝到种田 Chu Huan He楚环河Historical7.5M WordsOngoing Transmigration to the late Ming dynasty + Peasant Rebellion + Resistance against the Ming and Qing! (Respecting history + No cheats + No System + Slow-paced + Not a power fantasy!!) Wang Tie is an ordinary man with no particular skills. By a twist of fate, he transmigrates to the late Ming and early Qing, a chaotic era that is practically a living hell. How will he find a way to survive in this turbulent age?! And once he reaches the pinnacle of power, where will he lead this people and nat 17.3kReads8.5Score1.4kShelves
29. 829 开 The Emperor Xian of Han from the Start? I'm Liu Bang! 开局汉献帝？朕是刘邦！ Self-Driving Unmanned Car自行无人车Historical361k WordsOngoing [History] + [Emperor Xian of Han] + [Liu loyalist] + [Hardcore] (The rating just came out, it'll rise later.) After Liu Bang died, he saw the rise and fall of the Han dynasty in the river of time. The Han dynasty fell? No big deal, it lasted longer than the Qin! The Han dynasty has risen again? Liu Xiu, you've done a pretty good job, kid. What? The Han dynasty is about to fall again? Out of the way! Let Great Ancestor teach these unworthy descendants how to rebuild the Han! After dying, 1Reads8.4Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    None of them are mindless; even the most exciting parts are the result of real, hard-fought battles. The first two are newly released books. Based on my extensive reading experience (over 3,000 books), and as a serious history enthusiast, I highly recommend these books—they're all of high quality. The first book is about Liu Bang being reborn as Liu Xie before Cao Cao welcomed Emperor Xian. Facing a similar disastrous start to the reign of Emperor Chongzhen, his only advantage (?) Is his young age. How will Liu Bang win over the hearts of the people and turn the tide? Let's start by recruiting Xu Huang, one of the future Five Tiger Generals… (It's said that emperors at the end of a dynasty have the hardest time turning the tide. Facing uncooperative civil officials, disunited military generals, and ever-watchful warlords, how will Liu Bang rebuild the Han Dynasty? It's certainly something to look forward to.) The second book is about Liu Bang being reborn as his mean cousin who caused Liu Bei to sell straw sandals? No problem! Watch as old Liu demonstrates to his kind-hearted cousin Liu Bei what it means to rise to heaven on the spot by stepping on his own foot! (The author has a deep understanding of the Three Kingdoms period and has mastered the art of delivering satisfying moments. Everyone reads for the thrill, and this book truly delivers! It's a pity I finished it in one go only to find the author has only updated 200,000 words. I'm urging for more!) The third book: Liu Bang wakes up to find himself back in the county government as a lowly official, his only asset being his worthless status as an imperial uncle. Luckily, a wise man comes to his aid. What? You say this wise man's name is Cheng Yu?! (The story has entered a rather exciting phase with the coalition against Dong Zhuo, but unfortunately, the author's update schedule is poor and updates have stopped.) The fourth book: After reading so many stories about conquering the world, let's read something about governing it. Liu Bang converses with Zhuge Liang, addressing some historical regrets. (This book also features many emperors, including Emperor Wen, Emperor Xuan, and Emperor Guangwu. The author's weekly update schedule is truly astonishing.) These are all books I personally recommend; I've read them all. If you like a fast-paced story, I recommend the second book; if you like extreme action, I recommend the first; if you want more content, I recommend the third; and if you want to experience the entire Three Kingdoms and early Han Dynasty, the fourth book is a must-read! [Note]

30. 830 三 Secrets of the Three Kingdoms: The Truth Behind Zhuge Liang's Downfall of Li Yan 三国机密：诸葛亮废李严的真相 Freshly Mashed Potatoes鲜榨土豆泥Historical10k WordsCompleted The Hidden Truth of the Three Kingdoms: Why Zhuge Liang Stripped Li Yan of His Power 21Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This short story is interesting.

31. 831 刘 Liu Bang Transmigrates to the Three Kingdoms: Who's the Succubus Here? 刘邦穿越三国，试问谁是魅魔 Young Master Xiaoyi公子小易Historical1.1M WordsCompleted It took Liu Bang, founding emperor of the Great Han, seven years to unify the realm, and he ruled as emperor for eight years. After he died, he opened his eyes and suddenly transmigrated to the late Han, Three Kingdoms era, as Liu Deran, Liu Bei's cousin. The bad news: he's no longer emperor. The good news: he's young again. Given another life, Liu Bang certainly won't settle for a life of obscurity. The realm is in chaos, and warlords are rising everywhere. This is the perfect time for a hero t 5.7kReads8.4Score470Shelves
32. 832 唐 Late Tang Dynasty: From the Start, I Have Seven Thousand Routed Soldiers 唐末：开局七千溃兵 Tang Kuibing唐溃兵Historical1.3M WordsOngoing [No System] + [No cheats] + [Historically grounded] + [Ensemble cast] + [Military] + [Farming] + [Conquest] He transmigrates as Huang Chao's nephew, starting with seven thousand battered soldiers, no food or reinforcements, and enemies on every side. No System, no golden finger, just a broken body and a head full of hazy modern knowledge. This isn't one man's tale of cheating his way to the top. It's a whole group's struggle to survive. When old soldiers become disabled, they can serve as villa 29.6kReads8.5Score2.5kShelves
33. 833 东 A Survival Guide to the Eastern Jin Dynasty 东晋求生记 A Glance Back Amid Ten Thousand People万人丛中一回首Historical1.5M WordsOngoing After Liu Kun, who once drove back the enemy with a reed flute, was killed, and Zu Ti, who once swore to reclaim the north by striking the waves, died of illness, the lands of the north were utterly defiled by the stench of the Five Barbarians. Darkness blanketed the land. The fallen people were unwilling to give in, yet had no choice but to place their hopes in the Eastern Jin dynasty, which clung to a corner of the south. During the Rebellion of the Eight Princes, Prince Yan Sima Teng recruite 30.5kReads8.6Score3kShelves
34. 834 系EN Immortality System: I Outlived Everyone 系统赋我长生，我熬死了所有人 One Durian No. 3一只榴莲3号Eastern Fantasy5.6M WordsOngoing Observing the love and hatred of cultivators across the river of time from a perspective beyond life itself. He left a modest little town and entered the wondrous world of cultivation. His journey sped up and slowed down, moving forward or stopping to rest, but he never stopped walking. The Age of Declining Dharma, the Age of Emperors, the Age of Dark Turmoil… He appeared in every age, and the only thing he could do was watch old friends die with his own eyes, then see them off to their grave 575.4kReads9.4Score59.5kShelves

    Reader note

    These are the only ones I have that are comparable to historical fantasy novels.

35. 835 南 The Southern Ming Righteous Army 南明义军 The Casual-Notes Daoist随笔道人Historical1.4M WordsCompleted In 1645, the Yiyou Year of the lunar calendar, the Year of the Rooster, the first year of the Hongguang era of the Ming and the first year of the Longwu era; the second year of the Shunzhi era of the Qing; the second year of the Dashun era of the Great Xi; and the second year of the Yongchang era of the Great Shun, Shi Kefa died alongside Yangzhou, Nanjing fell, and Li Zicheng died at Jiugong Mountain. The Qing court surveyed the realm and found no one who could stand against it. The Eight Banne 18.7kReads8.9Score1.5kShelves
36. 836 大 Great Ming: I, Zheng Jing, Launch a Counterattack from the Sea 大明，我郑经从海上开始反攻 So the Ties Have Run Their Course原来缘尽啊Historical918k WordsOngoing [Ming Dynasty + Counterattack + Sea Power + Free Trade + Manor Economy] Starting in 1662, I transmigrate as Zheng Jing, the son of Zheng Chenggong. I inherit my father’s last wishes, vow to resist the Qing and restore the Ming. From the start, I relocate to Taiwan to farm, reclaim wasteland, establish manors, and develop a manor economy. I cut off maritime trade between the north and south, acting as both middleman and tax collector. Within a few years, our money and grain stores grow, our fleet 73.8kReads8.7Score7.4kShelves
37. 837 流 The Rogue Emperor: Liu Bang's Second Career in the Late Han and Three Kingdoms 流氓皇帝之汉未三国刘邦再就业 Cantonese Melon粤瓜Historical375k WordsOngoing [No System + Three Kingdoms + War for Supremacy + Emperor + Cunning] Liu Bang, the founding emperor of the Han dynasty, transmigrated into the late Han era, just as Zhang Jue and the Yellow Turban Rebellion were rising. After taking over the body of a minor official, Liu Bang woke to the sounds of soldiers outside. His imperial bearing restored order among the troops, and he led them to crush the Yellow Turbans in the county town. Thus began his second great venture in the late Han era! 30Reads8.2Score—Shelves
38. 838 銹 Rusty Sword 銹剑 Upper-Class Clear Spring Stone上流的清泉石Eastern Fantasy1.1M WordsCompleted (No brainless plot, no System, no harem, not a power fantasy, and only half committed to lying flat) Pull the helpless drops of water out of the martial world. Use rivets that refuse to be ordinary to pry up an entire edifice. Let a one-of-a-kind self return to heaven and earth. Draw the rusty sword that has earned its rest from the Yellow Springs. Warning 1: This book is a broad, multi-perspective narrative with a certain reading threshold. Please don't leave your brain at the door. Warning 2 21.9kReads9.2Score2.5kShelves
39. 839 大 Great Han Chat Group: Liu Bang Talks to Zhuge Liang from the Start 大汉群聊：开局刘邦对话诸葛亮 The Bickering One in My Memories记忆中的吵吵Historical536k WordsOngoing A Han Dynasty Chat Group: Liu Bang from the Start, Talking with Zhuge Liang [The founding emperor of the Han Dynasty talks with the chancellor of Shu Han from the start! A cross-time chat group kicks off a historical comeback!] When Liu Bang learns about the early Han Dynasty from Zhuge Liang, he kicks the pretending-to-be-sick Han Xin awake in the middle of the night, drags reclusive Zhang Liang out of retirement, and waves a light screen at them. “Get up, both of you. Your old man has work for 3.8kReads8.9Score361Shelves
40. 840 北 Northern Wei: Starting by Stealing Rich Women for Gao Huan 北魏：从替高欢抢富婆开始 Middle-Aged Man Grinding Ink研墨的中年人Historical151k WordsOngoing A strategist-kingdom-building story + slow burn + a later rise to dominance. I don't treat readers like fools, so haters, please move along. At the start, two bolts of silk buy a life. In the third year of Yanchang, at Huaishuo in Northern Wei, history professor Song Yan opens his eyes and finds himself a well-known idiot in the Song family. He's serving in his family's place beneath the northern wall of Pingcheng, and the overseer's whip has just finished lashing him. His stepmother has done 1.7kReads—Score180Shelves

    Reader note

    High-quality historical fiction, doesn't treat readers like fools, a brain-teasing, domineering style, I love it! 😎

41. 841 传EN Legend Management Bureau 传说管理局 Pest Control Team Member杀虫队队员Eastern Fantasy1.4M WordsCompleted (No harem, no formulaic plot, no invincibility, no System, no brainless decisions, and no wish fulfillment. Read with caution if any of that bothers you.) Du Yu dies an untimely death right at the beginning of the story. Hoping to secure a better spot in his next life, he takes a job with the Bureau of Legendary Tales. His job is to return to legends that have gone off course and put their plots back on track. He never expected that the first mission assigned to an ordinary mortal like him would 171.3kReads9.6Score22.1kShelves
42. 842 要 If My Master Weren’t Always Causing Trouble, Why Would I Fight for the Throne? 要不是师父总作妖，我何苦争帝位 The Little Fish Fry Who Stays Behind长留小鱼崽Ancient Romance159k WordsCompleted A scorching ache in his heart and body: a fallen immortal lord is forced into love. [No transmigration, no rebirth, no golden finger, a solid growth arc] A fallen beauty immortal lord, cast aside by the Heavenly Bureaucracy VS a wild, delinquent wolf cub, a hostage trapped far from home A mad dog versus a vicious hound For every inch his abstinent master’s hair grows, he loses a year of his life. The unlucky immortal lord, fallen into the mortal world and struggling amid political schemes, foun 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    [Not a wish-fulfillment story] + [Slow burn] + [No cheat codes] + [Male generals and female commanders] + [Ensemble cast] + [Cunning] + [Second Imperial Tutor] For every inch the abstinent Grand Tutor's hair grows longer, his life is cut short! Chu Lan willingly becomes He Lansheng's pawn, completely entering the game, breaking with the court, and becoming He Lansheng's weapon. His troublesome master is beyond Chu Lan's control; the only best course of action is to ascend the Nine Heavens Palace and completely protect him. I would rather torture myself than abandon you. Please, live! If you can't find a reason to live, that's okay, you can live for me!

43. 843 他 His Name Is Zhu Youtang 他叫朱佑樘 Jiang Mouqing姜某青Ancient Romance318k WordsOngoing There are so many emperors in the Ming Dynasty. Everyone writes about Hongwu, Yongle, Jiajing, and Chongzhen, but I insist on writing about Zhu Youcheng. A nearly perfect emperor, with one point deducted for dying young. Zhu Youcheng: Being crown prince is so hard. My mother died early, I didn't meet my father until I was six, and my position as heir is hanging by a thread. Noble Consort Wan: I am a good person. I've never hurt anyone. I'm not some wicked viper! Zhu Jianshen: I am a good emperor 132Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It satisfies all your needs, a rigorous historical novel that is also humorous and witty, and is neither fictional, time-travel, nor system-based.

44. 844 魂 Reborn in the Ming Dynasty, I Become the Emperor Everyone Calls a Tyrant! 魂穿大明，天下成我为昏君！ Exclusive Bonus Content绝版花絮Historical385k WordsOngoing (The Spirit of the Ming Dynasty) No System, no golden finger. Everyone says I am a foolish, reckless emperor who indulges in pleasure. But who knows that beneath this body's surface lies a soul from the modern world? I feign madness to fool the court, while secretly making plans, reforming the government, opening up the seas, and expanding the realm. When the day comes for sails to stretch across thousands of miles, the whole world will kneel at the feet of the Ming Dynasty! 1.8kReads—Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    Historical texts that follow official history

45. 845 快 My System Seems Different from Theirs 快穿：宫斗？霸总？统统滚蛋！ Su Bancheng苏半城Historical2.6M WordsCompleted This book contains ninety-five small worlds, including supernatural tales, ancient history, modern cities, farming, cultivation, and all sorts of others. Many can be read as standalone stories without affecting the main plot. The protagonist’s System has no point shop and can’t offer much help... Most of the time, Fang Zhiyi has to move things forward on his own. “What? You’re saying I have an army of five hundred thousand, and the emperor suspects I’m plotting rebellion?” “That’s right. The Hos 55.2kReads8.8Score4.6kShelves
46. 846 此 In This Life, I'll Only Be a Carefree Prince 此生只做逍遥王 Autumn Corn Harvest秋收玉米Historical1.0M WordsCompleted Gu Xing transmigrated, and at first thought he was the chosen one. He gave everything and schemed through his entire life, only to end up alone with nothing but a cup of poisoned wine. When time rewound and he got a second chance, Gu Xing straightened out his priorities and decided to lie flat. Whoever wanted that throne could have it. He certainly wasn't taking it. Starting over, Gu Xing had just one thought: he'd spent his previous life fighting wars. Wasn't it time to enjoy himself in this o 2.9kReads8.4Score162Shelves

    Reader note

    Parents are furious! My son wants to take the imperial examinations too!

47. 847 大 The Great Ming's Little Princess of Wellness 大明养生小帝姬 The River-Tracing Lantern Bearer溯河燃灯者Historical1.1M WordsOngoing This isn't about defying fate. It's a desperate struggle for survival, fueled by wisdom and memories. The Wanli era + a child prodigy saving the nation + meticulous historical research + history as surgery + subverting expectations + a Ming dynasty without regrets The second book in the Zhu Zhengda series is now available: Search for “In the Thirty-Eighth Year of Wanli, I Became the Princess Who Guards the Nation” 3Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    After Chapter 228, the Iron Triangle was formed, tacitly forming a united front. Wanli Emperor relinquished power, reflecting on his seven years of neglect and oversight, understanding the subtle brilliance of his granddaughter's reforms, displaying restraint, forbearance, strategic planning, and the ability to nurture future power, ruthlessly consolidating power externally while showing genuine affection for his granddaughter. Zhu Changluo, the strongest safety net crown prince, took charge, proactively assuming the responsibility of "suppressing the court and keeping a close eye on undercurrents," transforming from a weak crown prince to a composed heir apparent and Zhu Zhengda's strongest political backer. Zhu Zhengda charged forward, her strategic planning spanning a long period, her vision surpassing everyone in the court, understanding the advanced strategy of "political killing is less effective than economic severance." Her character is calm, mature, cunning, and compassionate.

48. 848 大 The Great Ming's First Companion Reader 大明第一伴读 Liu Shisan刘拾叁Historical829k WordsOngoing I am Liu Hanwen, the third grandson of Liu Bowen, the Earl of Sincerity of the Ming dynasty. In my previous life, I was a university student who had only just graduated when I spent two and a half years struggling through illness in a hospital bed. I thought that, reborn, I could use my scattered memories from my past life to live out this one in carefree style. But in my first month of life, Emperor Taizu of the Ming, Zhu Yuanzhang, appointed me as the future Crown Prince’s study companion. I f 5Reads—Score—Shelves
49. 849 龙 The Dragon Rises in Jinling: Reviving the Tang Dynasty for Five Hundred Years 龙起金陵，再续大唐五百年 Guest at the Deer’s Call鹿鸣客Historical163k WordsOngoing “The emperor in Chang’an, the army of the Wei residence.” The Wei residence’s household troops had become a thing of the past beneath the executioner’s blade, while the emperor in Chang’an lived in constant fear amid troubles both within and without. Does an emperor have some special birthright? Whoever commands the strongest troops and finest horses becomes emperor! Flames raged everywhere. Looking across the land, the Tang was now divided among rival regional warlords: Zhu Wen, Li Keyong, Yang 52Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period is a slow-burn story. It has no system, is not mindless, and does not involve time travel. It has history and characters. The adopted son usurps power and controls the regional military governors, eventually unifying the country and continuing the five-hundred-year-old Tang Dynasty.

50. 850 重 Reborn Strategist: I Change Liu Bei's Fate in Xuzhou 重生军师：我在徐州给刘备改命 Tong Sou童叟Historical1.4M WordsCompleted Zhuge Liang, who died of illness at Wuzhang Plains, opens his eyes and finds himself back in the first year of Jian'an. He is thirteen years old, and Liu Bei has just captured Xu Province. In his previous life, Liu Bei lost Xu Province, spent half his life wandering, and ended up trapped in a corner of Yizhou. In this life, Zhuge Liang will help him hold on to this land surrounded by enemies on all sides. But there's a problem: he's just a thirteen-year-old boy, with no reputation, no status, an 15.4kReads8.5Score2.1kShelves

    Reader note

    This book on the Three Kingdoms is really good; it can be read as a history book.

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