A Powerful Minister's Daughter: Brilliant, Ruthless, and Cunning 权臣之女，谋略过人，心狠手辣

1. 51 卿 My Beloved, Through Every Dawn and Dusk 卿是朝朝暮暮 Sugar-Roasted Little Deer糖炒小鹿Ancient Romance332k WordsCompleted Shen Yunshu studied archaeology and had been working for just two years. She loved history, and her favorite dynasty was the Rong Dynasty. A few days ago, she had read an unofficial history of the Rong Dynasty's royal family. Little did she expect that after falling asleep, she would wake up in the Rong Dynasty, sent there by the heavens, as Shen Yunshu, the legitimate daughter of the Shen family of Prince Zhenbei's residence. She had transmigrated to her favorite dynasty and become a descendant 24.4kReads9.4Score3kShelves

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   How could we forget Sister Xiao? She absolutely matches the title, and her scheming skills are top-notch too, just like Shen Yunshu.

2. 52 万 The Charismatic Villainess Has Turned Over a New Leaf 万人迷反派她从良了 Green Sea Cong Ning绿海从凝Ancient Romance574k WordsOngoing Gu Wange is a villain: vindictive, attracted to both men and women, and responsible for hurting countless people. Even Heaven seems to favor her, giving her chance after chance to start over no matter how recklessly she brings trouble upon herself. Fine! If Heaven is determined to make her a good person, what choice does she have? She'll turn over a new leaf! ╰(⇀‸↼)╯ 2.4kReads9.2Score199Shelves

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   🍡✨① She acts arrogantly and recklessly, yet she is favored by heaven. She died tragically in two lifetimes. In this life, she decides to be a good person. One moment she throws someone into the water and wants to kill them, and the next moment she befriends them, making others think they are involved in her scheme. In fact, they have already been involved in her scheme.

3. 53 姣 Jiaojiao's Joyful Years 姣姣岁欢 Little Yuanbao元宝儿Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted Jiang Suihuan marries Qin Huaijing, a royal relative whose family has fallen on hard times, bringing a generous dowry with her. On their wedding night, before they can consummate the marriage, he leaves her to fend for herself in the manor. Two years later, Qin Huaijing is selected by the court to become the Crown Prince of Great Jin. Jiang Suihuan thinks that her husband’s rise will make her Crown Princess. Instead, her husband returns victorious from the battlefield and tells her that a lowbor 9.2kReads8.9Score1.3kShelves

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   The female lead is very strong; she has both ability and intelligence.

4. 54 守 After Three Years of Mourning, the Frail Princess Consort Was Wed by Him 守孝三年后，柔弱王妃被他娶进门 Second Uncle二舅爷Ancient Romance505k WordsCompleted Luo Ci despises the gods and Buddhas, because none of them came to the aid of her loyal family. Yet that man always wears a string of prayer beads around his wrist. He kills without mercy, but kneels in devout worship. Luo Ci likes to make clear-cut deals. At first, she and Yan Wen each got what they wanted. During their final transaction, Luo Ci asked him, "My lord, what do you want from me?" The man, usually so calm and self-possessed, finally lost his composure. He cradled the back of her hea 7.1kReads9.4Score878Shelves

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   Luo Ci disliked gods and Buddhas because they wouldn't save her family, whose members were all loyal martyrs. Yet, that man always wore a string of Buddhist beads on his wrist; he killed without hesitation, yet he knelt and worshipped devoutly. Luo Ci thought she would never have the courage to pick up the Broken Mountain Sword again, but later, with blood staining its blade, she stood before Yan Wen, sword drawn, her cold and sharp voice resounding throughout the army: "I have already tasted the pain of losing my loved ones, and I do not wish to lose my beloved again! Listen carefully, everyone! I am Luo Ci, the Lord of the Qilin! Today, those who cross the Broken Mountain Sword—gods, Buddhas, demons, and monsters—will all become dead souls!"

5. 55 幺 The Youngest Daughter, Changle 幺女长乐 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted Miss Zhu Si’s rough fighting skills have always made her the laughingstock of the capital’s noble families. In everyone else’s eyes, that’s the sort of work meant for household guards. Zhu Changle, who considers herself invincible, isn’t ashamed of it. She’s proud. Not everyone can protect their own home, but she can! And then some! She’d even turn the whole capital upside down to protect it! Don’t believe her? Try her! 18.7kReads9.5Score3.1kShelves

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   The female protagonist is incredibly intelligent and resourceful, and the writing is superb. Another reason I consistently recommend these books is that, unlike other books where supporting characters are often portrayed as mindless, the supporting characters in these books are brilliantly developed, fleshed out, and very engaging.

6. 56 玄 The Mystic Maiden Begins Her World-Hopping Journey at Lotus Tower 玄女从莲花楼开启综穿 Little Snowgrass雪草儿Ancient Romance588k WordsCompleted The Celestial Maiden Xuannü had her opportunity stolen by Chang’e. To protect its own reputation, the Heavenly Dao initially planned to let things stand and simply banish Xuannü to the mortal realm. But a trace of Nuwa’s soul power was hidden within Xuannü’s spirit, and Nuwa sensed it. Naturally, she demanded an explanation. The heavenly realm dared not neglect her, so after conferring among themselves, they decided to make Xuannü a woman undergoing trials to appease Nuwa. They said that once sh 157Reads—Score—Shelves

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   In her eleventh life, a reborn princess seizes the world. She battles in the imperial court and the martial arts world.

7. 57 谋 After Rebelling, I Was Doted on by a Love-Struck Prince 谋反后，被恋爱脑王爷宠上天 Zisu and Autumn子苏与秋Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted Mu Yao transmigrates to ancient times and becomes the Princess Consort of the Prince of Zhenbei. From the start, the emperor orders the Prince of Zhenbei to be executed. By law, the princess consort must be buried with him. He commands an army of six hundred thousand, is the strongest man under heaven, and has a statuesque build and a face fit for a god. Is this prince really going to accept the decree and hang himself? If you want to die, don't drag me down with you! Mu Yao storms over and slap 8.6kReads7.2Score801Shelves

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   This is more than just a story about female protagonist scheming; it's a true female-centric novel. She orchestrates a rebellion in the early stages and eventually establishes a republic. The female lead isn't love-struck at all. It's so exciting, I couldn't stop reading!

8. 58 穿 I Transmigrated as the Villainous Tycoon's Son, So I Joined Him in His Evil Ways 穿成反派大佬之子，我同流合污 A Prosperous Opening开市大吉Ancient Romance639k WordsCompleted [Complete] [No romance × woman disguised as a man × strong heroine × transmigrate into a book] [Pure antagonist's perspective × no unnecessary romantic entanglements × ruthless and merciless] [No situation where the male lead is stronger than the strong female lead] When Zheng Luoqi wakes up, she discovers that she has transmigrated into a romance novel as the daughter of its main villain. Step by step, Zheng Luoqi watches her father become a great corrupt official. Then the male and female lead 2.7kReads9.0Score293Shelves

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   This book is really good. The female lead doesn't fall in love, there's no romantic subplot, no love interest, and she's not pampered by anyone. Everyone except her father and his men wants to kill her and her husband. Both the female lead and her father are very intelligent; her father is even the prime minister. And most importantly, the female lead is beautiful.

9. 59 奸 The Scheming Minister Has No Desire to Be Everyone's Beloved 奸臣她不想当万人迷 Jiang Xiaoshi江小十Ancient Romance387k WordsCompleted [Cold, Suspicious Emperor vs. Female Official Disguised as a Man] Yu Bie is an illegitimate son who disguises herself as a man. She’s ambitious and insatiable, and plenty of people hate and despise her. She doesn’t care in the slightest. Her younger sister is Prince Zhang’s consort, so Yu Bie naturally joins Prince Zhang’s faction. She sincerely hopes he’ll succeed in the struggle for the throne and become crown prince. That would bring Yu Bie one step closer to her own dream: becoming a powerfu 42.5kReads9.2Score5kShelves

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   This should work; the ambiguous entanglement and scheming between the two [licking screen][licking screen][licking screen][licking screen]

10. 60 满 Spring Over the City: A Collection of Historical Romances by Yiyimaiqian 满城春（一枚铜钱古言精选） A Copper Coin一枚铜钱Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted A collection of classic historical romances by popular Jinjiang author Yi Mei Tong Qian. These three works are all timeless favorites, perfect for staying up all night to read: Spring Over the City, Poisoned Wine, and Strange Tales of the Eighth Day of the Twelfth Month. The Liu family of the capital is an eminent clan so powerful that even the imperial family treats them with respect. Liu Yan, the legitimate youngest daughter of the second branch, is brilliant and blessed with both wisdom and g 23.4kReads9.4Score2.9kShelves

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    The general's daughter, though young, possessed extraordinary intelligence, almost supernatural.

11. 61 汴 Spring Deepens in Bianjing 汴京春深 Wheat小麦Ancient Romance1.6M WordsCompleted [Audio version now available, welcome to listen] Madam Rongguo, Wang Fu, devoted herself to her family until she fell gravely ill and died. She was reborn in the body of Meng Jiuniang, a foolish illegitimate daughter who was only seven years old. In her previous life, her husband became her uncle in this life, and her son became her cousin. In this life, Meng Wan had a simple wish: to live peacefully and watch her son, her cousin Su Fang in this life, grow up safe and sound. But as she and a gro 18.9kReads9.5Score2.4kShelves

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    This book! The author's descriptions are very detailed, making it perfect for leisure reading. The female protagonist is reborn as a concubine's daughter, the daughter of a powerful minister.

12. 62 参 After Enlisting, She Became the Dream Lover of Noble Ladies 参军后，她成了贵女们的梦中情郎 Warm Moon暖月Ancient Romance639k WordsCompleted [Invincible Style + Golden Finger + Transmigration and Rebirth + Female General Enfeoffed as a Marquis + No Romance] Shen Jiang was once the marquis’s eldest legitimate daughter, but when her mother was demoted from wife to concubine, Shen Jiang became an illegitimate daughter. Her innocent birth mother died unjustly. Driven to despair, Shen Jiang awakened memories of her past life. Only then did she notice something lodged in her mind. In her previous life, she was an exceptional special forces 2.8kReads9.0Score338Shelves

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    The first one is Shen Jiang, the "former" legitimate daughter of the Marquis's mansion. Because her mother was demoted from wife to concubine and her birth mother died unjustly, Shen Jiang awakened her past life memories in despair. It was only then that Shen Jiang noticed something stored in her mind...

13. 63 恶 The Villainess Becomes the Legitimate Daughter: I'm Just Pretending, Don't Get Too Attached 恶女成嫡：我装的，你们别太爱了 Peach Blossoms Reflected in Wine桃花映酒Ancient Romance617k WordsCompleted (Print edition goes on sale at 7 p.m. on September 19 / Several short animated adaptations are now streaming) [Wicked Villainess Transmigrates into a Book + Total Control + “Training Dogs” Romance + Male Rivals in a Shura Field + Exes Begging for Her Back + Face-Slapping and Scumbag Punishment] [The heroine is a true villainess: a stunning, calculating temptress who never hesitates to manipulate others] Jiang Chuji, the legitimate daughter of the prime minister, was an ill-fated girl sent to a t 59.7kReads9.4Score8kShelves

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    They're mostly scheming romance novels. You might find the fourth book a little bland, but I found it incredibly good and kept asking for more chapters every day!!! The first book was super captivating! The female lead in the second book is practically a palace intrigue star!

14. 64 夫 My Husband Gives Me Two Hundred Thousand Taels a Month 夫君每月给我二十万两 Having Met the Young Master既见公子Ancient Romance768k WordsCompleted [Sweet Romance + Transmigrate Into a Book + Goofy Comedy + Redemption + Marriage Before Love] Gan Qiongying transmigrated into the body of a princess! Before she could even celebrate, she realized this world was the setting of a book she had read. And she was the wicked supporting character who committed countless evils and met a tragic end... The plot had reached the point where a princess of her stature was being forced to marry a merchant. Merchants ranked below scholars, farmers, and arti 29.6kReads9.4Score3.8kShelves

    Reader note

    I've listened to more than half of it so far. At first, I thought it was the domineering CEO romance type, but it turns out to be a political intrigue type. The male lead is crazy and everyone else is talkative. So far, it's not bad.

15. 65 娘 One Tear from the Empress, and She Acts Her Way to the Emperor's Throne 娘娘一滴泪，演到帝王送凤位 Little Peeled Egg剥壳的小蛋蛋Ancient Romance589k WordsCompleted [Story complete; easy to get around] Shen Qingfu transmigrated into a rebirth novel. The reborn heroine, Chu Can, had grown up with the crown prince, Ning Xuanli, as his childhood sweetheart. Given a second chance at life, she wanted no love, only power and riches. To become the most special person in the crown prince’s heart, she played hard to get. She had schemes, but no feelings. Shen Qingfu was nothing more than the most insignificant cannon fodder in the rebirth novel. Shen Qingfu gave a s 306Reads9.1Score—Shelves
16. 66 双 Two Wild Geese Return in the Drizzle 双雁归来细雨中 A Qi7阿柒7Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (The rating is low because it was just released and the platform gave it a default score! It has nothing to do with the quality of the story!!) (Please give this story a chance!) She is the only daughter of a distinguished general's household. Thinking ahead, she gives up the luxurious life in the capital and goes away to study the arts, all to leave her family a way out in case it ever falls into decline. He is The Outcast, the crown prince, second only to the emperor and above all others. He w 272Reads8.1Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is the legitimate daughter of a top-tier general's family. She is intelligent and resourceful from a young age, possesses a strategic mindset, and is not confined to domestic or palace intrigues. She works alongside the male lead to thwart court conspiracies.

17. 67 咸 The Lazy Concubine Just Wants to Cling to a Powerful Patron, but the Aloof Prince Is Hooked 咸鱼侍妾只想抱大腿，高冷王爷却被钓疯了 Seven An Coins七桉钱Ancient Romance589k WordsOngoing (Transmigration / palace and household intrigue / raising a child / doted on exclusively in the later stages / love grows over time / everyday life) Ye Qing, a notorious actress, transmigrates one day into the body of a concubine of Prince Jing, the fourth son of the Great Yue emperor. As a concubine, without the prince's favor, her status is even lower than a maid's. To live comfortably, she decides to cling tightly to the biggest pillar in the prince's manor: the aloof Prince Jing. Ye Qing pre 405Reads8.9Score—Shelves
18. 68 做 Be a Concubine? You're Not Worthy! I'll Find a Better Match, and You'll Beg Me to Stay 做妾？你也配？另谋高嫁你下跪 Young Master Lan公子兰Ancient Romance565k WordsCompleted This book is now available as a full-cast audio drama, and it’s hilarious! Give it a listen! [Hilarious Transmigration + Medical Space + Sweet, Satisfying Romance + Power Struggles + Palace and Household Intrigue + Mutual Devotion and Strength] A genius in medicine and poison transmigrates to ancient times with a medical space. She wakes up in a coffin, only to have a bewitching man try to steal it? Her ex-husband favors his concubine, abuses his wife, and shamelessly claims her dowry? Her fathe 5.6kReads8.9Score554Shelves

    Reader note

    The daughter of a powerful minister, possessing extraordinary strategic acumen, wields power and influence. A hilarious historical romance novel featuring a strong female protagonist. The heroine was poisoned to death by a scumbag in her previous life, but transmigrates into a divine physician to retaliate against the villain and build her career, enjoying a smooth and exhilarating journey. No overly sentimental or melancholic moments; lighthearted and funny.

19. 69 梁 The Night Prince Amid Liang Chen’s Beauty 梁臣美景夜公子 Fleeting Green Shadow流光青影Historical1.5M WordsOngoing Merchant, farmer, official, martial exalt, immortal... Through cycle after cycle of reincarnation, life and death, fortune and disaster are all matters of fate. In this life, a confused soul awakens amid an age of chaos... Wait a second... Isn't this the setup for becoming a tool? Why do I have to live another life? Wouldn't it be nicer to stay home and write? I'm trapped in such a mess, and the inside of my body is just as chaotic. There isn't just one of me in here... The original owner is sti 5Reads—Score—Shelves

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    A fantasy novel about a woman's transformation into a princess, a political intrigue story, a palace intrigue, a tragic romance, and martial arts. The female lead is the Empress of Jing Kingdom, and she engages in a series of witty battles with the male lead (the cunning Liang Chen). She is determined to kill the male lead.

20. 70 纨 The Pampered Life of a Spoiled Commandery Princess 纨绔郡主得宠日常 Zhao Pian赵骗Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Signed for publication. The print edition is expected to be available by the end of the year. No! This! Is! Not! A! Romance! No CP! No rebirth, no transmigration, a thoroughly evil heroine, a power-struggle story A truly wicked heroine, vying for power over the realm, genuinely unhinged, ruthless, and rotten to the core Questions that come up while reading can only be answered by reading on. The willful, overbearing young princess of the Prince of Zhenbei’s household takes a fancy to Pei Jinnian 49.7kReads9.4Score6.3kShelves

    Reader note

    In this political intrigue novel, the restraint of emotions and the display of the characters' wisdom are truly superb. The heroine's strategic brilliance is impressive, while the deep bond between grandmother and granddaughter that runs throughout adds a touch of warmth to this cruel political marriage. Such emotional resonance is rare indeed.

21. 71 侯 The Marquis's Widow Raised a Household of Geniuses 侯夫人守寡，却养出满门天骄 Yu Fu余弗Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Tang Shuyi transmigrated into the Great Qian dynasty, becoming the wife of the Marquis of Yongning. She was rich, powerful, and high-status, with no parents-in-law and a dead husband: she had it better than almost anyone else who had transmigrated. Just as she was about to enjoy a comfortable life as a wealthy noblewoman, she discovered that she had transmigrated into a book, and was its biggest villain. She wasn’t just rich, powerful, and high-status. She also had three unruly children. The eld 70.6kReads9.4Score10.4kShelves

    Reader note

    I'm currently reading or have already finished several books, and I personally think they're incredibly good.

22. 72 惊 Shock! Reborn on the Eve of My Family's Execution, I Say Let's Rebel 惊！重生回满门抄斩前夜，造反吧 Yi Yangcheng衣漾澄Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Rebirth + feel-good story with a powerful heroine + family and country + political intrigue] A cool-headed, cunning heroine who plans several moves ahead + a brilliant, devoted yet restrained male lead who serves as a high-ranking official at the Court of Judicial Review In her previous life, the entire Ning family, loyal to the throne for generations, was slaughtered. To avenge them, Ning Zhiwei led an army of a hundred thousand to marry Su Mingjin, helping him with all her might as he rebelle 27.3kReads9.3Score3.3kShelves

    Reader note

    These are all excellent books, highly recommended! 🫧 The first one, "Unexpected Events and Peaceful Reunions," is about a woman who schemes and cooperates to save her family. The female protagonist plans ten steps ahead, using open strategies to defeat intrigue and treachery. The second one, "Qu Ling Chi Yuan," is a very enjoyable and satisfying read, a female-centric political intrigue novel.

23. 73 就 Even as a Fake Heiress, I’ll Still Daringly Embrace Doing Nothing 就算是假千金也要勇敢摆烂 Ji Furan纪扶染Modern Romance659k WordsCompleted [Print edition launching across all platforms on August 9, 2025] When Shen Yue was twelve, she accidentally fell into a pond while feeding the fish. That was when she learned the truth: her parents weren’t her real parents, and her five older brothers weren’t really her brothers. She was the Mu family’s fake heiress! Faced with a future where she was destined to lose everything, Shen Yue decided to get ahead… by lying down. If she was going to lose it all anyway, she might as well lie back and 117.8kReads9.6Score13.7kShelves
24. 74 别 They Throw Mud at Me, So I Lie Down and Sue Them for 38,000 别人朝我扔泥巴，躺下讹他三万八 Yan Xiaonuo颜小糯Modern Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Absurd comedy + livestreaming + going crazy anywhere, anytime] Qiao Xi takes on a mission from the Space-Time Administration, transmigrating into a tragic romance novel to fix its plot. She becomes a nobody with barely any fame and is bound to a Truth-Telling System. From then on, the tragic romance takes a bizarre turn... During a variety show livestream, she is asked why she works so hard. Guest 1: “I thought of the hardworking farmers.” Guest 2: “My grandma was a farmer. I miss her so much.” 42.8kReads9.5Score5.4kShelves
25. 75 并 Twin Black Lotus Sisters Run Riot in Empresses in the Palace 并蒂黑莲花杀疯甄嬛传 A Crispy Little Fish一条酥小鱼Female-Channel Fanfiction720k WordsOngoing Jiang Shu's soul transmigrates into Empresses in the Palace, where she joins forces with An Lingrong to carve out a path to survival in the cannibalistic imperial harem. A pair of sisters who rule the palace through intrigue: concubines become empress dowagers! By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: Jiang Shu, daughter of Jiang Tingxi, Vice Minister of Rites, is hereby conferred the rank of Fifth-Rank Noble Lady. So ordered! Jiang Shu: Everyone says Lingrong is sensitive, insecure, suspi 1.2kReads8.7Score130Shelves

    Reader note

    In this book, Jiang Shu travels through time with the script and enters the palace with the Ling Rong sisters. In Ling Rong's heart, no one is more important than her sister. The two join hands to compete for high positions and kill Zhen Huan.

26. 76 女 After Faking Her Death in Disguise as a Man, She Starts Playing the Frail, Scheming Green Tea 女扮男装死后，她开始演柔弱绿茶 Ye Buhong叶不鸿Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted The print edition of [Playing Coy] is available on all platforms. [The heroine is everyone’s beloved, with maximum “moonlight in the heart” appeal + doted on by all + universally adored + strong female lead] Qin Buwen disguised herself as a man and played the part of a treacherous official for sixteen years. At the height of her infamy, everyone in Chang’an, even the dogs, would go out of their way to avoid her. Then she was betrayed and abandoned by everyone. She leapt from a tall building, onl 36.5kReads9.4Score5.8kShelves

    Reader note

    Qin Buwen raised an eyebrow, his posture unrestrained, his eyes full of disdain: "I laugh at the fact that all the remonstrating officials in the hall are cowardly, not one of them dares to speak ill of me."

27. 77 开 Exiled from the Start, I Become the Beloved Darling of Evil Valley 开局流放，我在恶人谷当团宠 Yin Man茵漫Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted [Strong heroine, pairing with Bai Yu] She was a test subject at a secret underground research facility in the twenty-first century, designation Zero. She could retrieve objects from thin air and had no empathy. One day, she was reborn and transmigrated to an ancient farming household. A natural disaster struck right after she was born, and her whole family was exiled when she was barely a month old. Everyone around her said she was a harbinger of disaster. Grandma Su let out a cold laugh, hoist 19kReads9.5Score3.6kShelves
28. 78 抄 After the Estate Was Confiscated 抄家以后 Snow Tea Woof Woof雪茶汪汪Ancient Romance252k WordsCompleted [A clever, levelheaded noblewoman vs. an honest, straightforward, fiercely loyal guard] [Historical Romance + Revenge + Healing + Political Intrigue + Love That Grows Over Time + Devoted Guard] Cheng Ming'an was the daughter of a general. On the eve of her wedding, the Cheng family was arrested and their assets confiscated for treason. Her father and brothers were executed, her eldest sister took her own life, and her married sisters were put through one hardship after another. Her fiancé change 11.5kReads9.5Score1.2kShelves

    Reader note

    Look at this book; the female protagonist is exceptionally intelligent, and she only reveals her wisdom to protect herself.

29. 79 攀 Marrying Up 攀高枝 Egrets in Pairs白鹭成双Ancient Romance424k WordsCompleted [Film and TV rights sold] [Print edition published] Zhang Zhixu had everything from birth. A family with a century of prestige, enviable talent, and a career that kept rising step by step. But he found life terribly dull. Then, one day, an accident struck, and his soul entered a woman's body. A woman who couldn't read a single character, yet dreamed of marrying into a powerful family and becoming a phoenix. · Chen Baoxiang had traveled a thousand miles from the countryside to the capital, hoping 163.8kReads9.6Score22.8kShelves

    Reader note

    Power struggles and human nature—it seems that humanity hasn't evolved from ancient times to the present; it's all about human nature.

30. 80 美 A Beauty Like Wine, Sweet Yet Poisonous 美人似酒亦似毒 Yu Jiudeng虞九灯Ancient Romance444k WordsCompleted Everyone knows that Prince Ding of Beiming, a man who avoids women, fell for a delicate beauty and spoiled her beyond measure, granting her every wish. The beauty was like both wine and poison. On the eve of their wedding, she dropped her disguise, stole the battle formation plans of the Xiao family army, and made a clean getaway. All of Xiao Ciyuan’s heartfelt devotion became a joke. . Wen Yuyan, daughter of the great general who protects Xichu, burst onto the scene. Brilliant and gifted, with 1.3kReads9.3Score151Shelves

    Reader note

    This novel features two strong leads, both brave and resourceful. The storyline is clear, the plot is fresh and interesting, and all characters are intelligent and have their own unique traits. It's not just a simple, mindless wish-fulfillment story; it incorporates elements of national sentiment and love-hate relationships, making it truly worth reading. — Wen Yanyu VS Xiao Ciyuan

31. 81 女 The Female Bandit Goes to the Capital to Become an Official and Wins Over the Aloof Emperor 女土匪进京为官，诱拐了清冷陛下 Evening Ripples晚漾Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Sweet historical romance + two powerful leads + devoted to each other + sweet and satisfying + fun and lively + no annoying supporting characters + sensible leads] A super-ferocious, super-rich bandit queen VS a cool, otherworldly beauty of an emperor Jin Sanglu owns thirty mountains of gold and is every inch a bandit queen. After earning military merit, she arrogantly calls out to the court: “If you won’t give me an official post, then make me empress.” The ministers are furious, but they fear 12.4kReads9.4Score1.7kShelves
32. 82 轻 Where Does the Light Boat Go? 轻舟何岸 Plain Colors, Chilly素彩寒Ancient Romance271k WordsCompleted Are the four princes of Rui Kingdom really going to marry four common women from Chan Kingdom? Could it be because every woman in Chan Kingdom is beautiful and fertile? She has the talent to be a chancellor in a matriarchal kingdom, yet marries the “intellectually disabled” prince of a patriarchal kingdom, entering the marriage as a spy under the pretense of a political union. He is a prince with exceptional intelligence who hides his true self. But even after he regains his true self, is that r 16Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    She possessed the talent of a female prime minister but married a "mentally challenged" prince of a male kingdom, using the guise of a political marriage to act as a spy; he was a prince of exceptional intelligence who concealed his true form, but even if he regained his true self, would he truly be himself? Espionage, political intrigue, palace intrigue, business strategies, and battlefield tactics all unfold in the back-and-forth between these two powerful figures who admired each other…

33. 83 踹 After Kicking Over the Dragon Throne, the Entire Court Begged Her to Take the Crown 踹翻龙椅后，满朝文武跪求她登基 Fei Xi妃玺Ancient Romance2.5M WordsCompleted (The heroine focuses on her career, with no romantic pairing. She becomes somewhat cold-hearted and ruthless later on.) Born into the world as a princess, Yu Hui thinks that at last, an incredible fortune has fallen into her lap. She has a palace to live in, money to spend, and status to protect her, so she can enjoy a peaceful, happy life. But peace is out of the question. Calamities keep dropping out of the sky, and they’re heavy ones. Happiness? Not really. Someone is always ending up dead, s 8.6kReads8.8Score728Shelves

    Reader note

    Both of these books are incredibly good! Although the women weren't daughters of powerful officials, they were still members of the royal family. See how they, as women, ascended to the highest thrones.

34. 84 权 The Beloved and Fearless Wife 权宠悍妻 June六月Ancient Romance1.7M WordsCompleted The AI live-action comic drama The General’s Brother, Whom I Married After Being Reborn, is now streaming on the Hongguo App. The short drama based on the novel of the same name, Beloved Fierce Wife, is also streaming on Hongguo! The legitimate daughter of a duke’s mansion marries a general and helps him become a celebrated commander, only to be despised by her husband and mother-in-law. While she is pregnant, he dotes on his concubine, claims she is a bringer of bad luck, cuts open her belly to 7kReads9.0Score1.6kShelves

    Reader note

    These novels are excellent, with gripping and suspenseful plots. The storylines are tight and fast-paced. The female protagonist is the legitimate daughter of a powerful minister, possessing a strong personality and sound values, not a naive or simplistic character. She is intelligent, resourceful, courageous, decisive, and ruthless, seeking revenge for her past life's grievances. Together with the male protagonist, they strive to achieve a happy life.

35. 85 公 The Princess Holds Sway Over the Court, and Her Harem Is Full 公主权倾朝野，鱼塘挤不下了 Old Yellow Rabbit老黄兔Ancient Romance3.4M WordsCompleted Original title: The Princess Holds Sway Over the Court, and Her Fish Pond Is Full [Historical Romance + Scheming + Everyone’s Darling + Reincarnation Before Birth + Favorite Concubine + Harem Intrigue + Wish Fulfillment + Alluring Heroine + System + Rise to Power] One day, after transmigrating, Liang Yue became the apple of her favorite concubine mother’s eye. The three thousand imperial consorts could not match her mother’s radiance, and the entire Great Xia treasury could not rival her uncle’s 22.1kReads7.4Score6kShelves
36. 86 权 The Power of the Imperial Favorite 权宠天下 June六月Ancient Romance4.1M WordsCompleted Live-action short-form drama: The Power and Privilege 4: Ruling the World is now streaming on Hongguo. A brilliant medical PhD transmigrates into the body of the Chu Prince’s discarded consort. As soon as she arrives, she encounters a critically injured patient. Guided by her medical ethics, she treats him, only to nearly be thrown into prison on false charges. When the Retired Emperor falls gravely ill, she finds a way to treat him, but that hateful Poison King misunderstands and berates her. I 10.3kReads9.4Score3.9kShelves
37. 87 科 Imperial Exam Triumph: The Strongest Female Grand Secretary 科举逆袭：最强女首辅 Dressed in Splendor宝妆成Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted After finally becoming the first female heir in her family, she opens her eyes and finds herself back before the revolution. Her father is dead from the start, leaving her with a frail mother and three beautiful older sisters. She is the only son who can carry on the Cheng family line... Cheng Qing looks down at her slightly developed chest, wondering what on earth went wrong. Surrounded by scheming wolves, Cheng Qing, now with a new soul in her body, sets herself two small goals: First, keep pr 8.5kReads9.5Score1.3kShelves
38. 88 与 Joy with You 与君欢 Moonset月落Ancient Romance657k WordsCompleted [Palace Intrigue and Political Scheming + Marriage Before Love + Mutual Devotion] A young king and queen join hands to bring peace to the realm, brimming with ambition! A sinister, calculating ruler versus a clever, decisive queen: evenly matched, they win the world together! Jiang He, daughter of an envoy from Qi, was forced to enter the palace as a servant after her mother died and her father disappeared. Then, just before the marriage alliance, the princess of Qi died a tragic death, leaving 27kReads9.5Score3.5kShelves

    Reader note

    These three novels are very good.

39. 89 重 Reborn to Marry the Villain, Backed by the Regent, I Went on a Killing Spree 重生嫁反派，摄政王撑腰，杀疯了 Shi Su Su Ya是酥酥吖Ancient Romance256k WordsCompleted [Rebirth + Sweet Romance + Past and Present Lives + Medicine] Jiang Shining and Nangong Yu were betrothed as children. They grew up together, a perfect match in looks and talent. At her birthday banquet, she was overjoyed, thinking it would be the formal betrothal ceremony for the two of them. Instead, she learned that her father and brother had died in battle, and Nangong Yu stormed in with troops, accusing the Jiang family of treason. Tortured until she wished she were dead, Jiang Shining watc 380Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Strong male lead, strong female lead, one-on-one sweet romance, no angst, super good-looking, highly recommended (5 stars)

40. 90 内 The First Lady of the Cabinet 内阁第一夫人 Mo Tangtang墨汤汤Ancient Romance618k WordsCompleted In her previous life, she married into the imperial family in a high-status match, only to meet a tragic end. Her family was destroyed, and she lost everyone. In this life, all she wants is revenge, yet she becomes the wife of a Grand Secretary, the spouse of a powerful chancellor... 1.3kReads8.7Score129Shelves
41. 91 重 Reborn, I Married My Fiancé’s Imperial Uncle 重生后我嫁了未婚夫的皇叔 Ji Weiwei季微微Ancient Romance4.1M WordsCompleted In her previous life, she was the legitimate daughter of a noble family. She paved the way for him to become Crown Prince, only to be betrayed and branded a traitor. Her entire family was condemned, not one member spared. Reborn at seventeen, she is a miraculous doctor with a naturally gifted spiritual constitution. Once reviled throughout the land as an ugly woman, she transforms overnight and leaves everyone astounded. Her former fiancé regrets his choice and clings to her? She simply marries 6.3kReads9.2Score788Shelves
42. 92 众 Everyone Favors the Transmigrated Girl, So I Go Straight for the Throne 众人偏宠穿越女，转头我直接登基 Peachy桃子哦Ancient Romance119k WordsOngoing A woman who transmigrated suddenly appears, winning the Prince Consort's devotion, the Empress Dowager's affection, the Crown Prince's protection, and the princes' favor. She takes every bit of special treatment Qin Shanyue once received. A transmigrated heroine, is she? Then perhaps the dragon throne in the Xuanzheng Hall should change hands too. Qin Shanyue, Grand Princess of Great Qi, was born with the bearing of a ruler. Yet because she is a woman, Great Qi keeps her caged like a golden bird —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I recommend it, especially the first book. The eldest princess has a great presence, but she's not the unreasonable type.

43. 93 权 The Minister's Daughter 权臣之女 Many Blessings福多多Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted Wei Ruoyi never imagined that she could talk herself to death just by being a keyboard warrior and making a snarky comment. She closed her eyes, opened them again, and discovered that she had transmigrated. As the villainess who dies the most spectacular death in the book, Wei Ruoyi feels like she's under tremendous pressure! Faced with the fate of being hacked to pieces by the heroine, Wei Ruoyi is left dumbfounded. The male lead is devastatingly handsome, but Wei Ruoyi says that no matter how 34Reads8.4Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The daughter of a powerful minister, her intelligence is consistently high throughout. The female lead is clear-headed and not driven by romance. She focuses on the nation and the world. This is the third palace intrigue novel; without intelligence, you wouldn't survive a single chapter.

44. 94 反 The Villainess Kills with Her Beauty 反派她以美貌杀人 Shattered Starlight夜空碎光Ancient Romance355k WordsCompleted (The heroine is a true villain. If you prefer morally upright characters, read with caution.) She was the villain of a book, but she never knew it. But what did that matter? Her beloved was dead. How could those responsible for his death be allowed to live? She toyed with the world in the palm of her hand, laying schemes within schemes and concealing deadly intent at every turn. Her gentle nature and ethereal beauty were both weapons, and no one could stand in the way of her revenge. The person 4.1kReads9.4Score479Shelves

    Reader note

    The first two books feature female protagonists who are daughters of powerful officials, while the latter two feature princesses. Both protagonists are exceptionally cunning and meticulously plan every step. 1. *The Villain* is a revenge story where the female protagonist seeks revenge for her "white moonlight" (ideal love interest). At the beginning, her "white moonlight" is gone, she is forced into a substitute marriage, and then embarks on her revenge. Her beauty and gentle personality are her weapons; she is the one holding the game, and everything around her is a pawn. She is truly ruthless, but from her perspective, it's impossible to say she's wrong. The ending made me cry buckets [crying]. 2. *The Treacherous Minister's Daughter* is a career-oriented story. The female protagonist's father, the prime minister, is both a scholar and a warrior, capable of governing the country and conquering the world. From the emperor's perspective, he is a treacherous minister, but the emperor is utterly inhumane, so he has to be brought down. Getting off-topic... The female protagonist's father is so charismatic [shy]. Next, let's talk about the female lead. She's very clear-headed, resourceful, and decisive—the one most like her father. She paves her way through business, proceeding step by step with careful planning. Paired with a loyal and innocent male lead, she's obedient and well-behaved, making for a very enjoyable read. 3. "Phoenix Slaughter" is a political intrigue and revenge novel. The female lead was originally an empress, but after being reborn, she becomes a princess of another country. Everyone says the emperor dotes on this princess, but it's actually a form of manipulation. The female lead remains clear-headed from beginning to end, not a saint, and focuses on her career and revenge, planning every step carefully. Having experienced betrayal and burdened with a blood feud, even her reborn emperor father is hypocritical and constantly scheming. The male lead is probably the only one who truly understands her. The only characters I dislike are Qin Yi and that female supporting character surnamed Chen. Thankfully, Qin Yi isn't the male lead [smirk]. 4. Finally, this is a female-centric novel with political intrigue and everyone focused on their careers. The female lead is the daughter of a deceased crown prince, the most beloved and noble princess. The entire royal family is incredibly united, avoiding internal strife and working together against external threats. There's a male lead, but they only meet at the very end. Throughout the story, they're separated by distance, one in the south and one in the north, yet they work together to build their careers, displaying remarkable chemistry and unspoken understanding. It's a love story of equals, with both of them being incredibly cunning and shrewd. It's truly captivating. Note that everyone is focused on their careers; there are no idiotic characters or malicious female supporting roles. The female supporting characters are actually very morally upright and sensible. I've already finished watching it, so please don't be misled by the rating; it's really good! [Shy]

45. 95 夫 Madam Is Unrivaled in the World 夫人世无双 Black Xiangling黑香菱Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted Three years ago, when someone mentioned his wife Qing Qian, Yuan Bin would grit his teeth and say, “A venomous woman, full of wicked schemes, sharp-tongued and nasty. Just seeing her irritates me.” Three years later, when someone mentioned his wife Qing Qian, Yuan Bin would grin foolishly, perfectly content. “My wife is beautiful and kind, clever and quick-witted, and she’s great at solving cases. She’s truly a treasure sent from heaven.” People wondered, “What sort of woman is the Commander’s w 364Reads8.6Score102Shelves
46. 96 长 After Being Reborn, the Grand Princess Spoils the Regent Night After Night 长公主重生后，夜夜独宠摄政王 Seaweed Pork Floss Cake海苔肉松小贝Ancient Romance347k WordsCompleted [Unhinged, domineering grand princess VS devoted, stone-faced regent] [Ultimate romantic battlefield + one woman and multiple men + physical first, feelings later + flirtatious tension + male lead humbly begging for love + heroine ascends the throne] Zhao Huiyin is the Grand Princess of Great Yan, doted on by Emperor Qianyuan and wielding immense power. But she falls in love with Ye Huaixu, the top-ranked new imperial graduate. She marries him and spends ten years helping him become Right Chan 797Reads7.5Score107Shelves
47. 97 疯 The Mad Tyrant Wants to Steal Her: You’re the One Who Tempted Me First! 疯批权臣夺她，是你先勾我的！ Bright, Gentle Laughter笑语晏晏Ancient Romance429k WordsCompleted [Possessive pursuit + Untouchable beauty brought down from her pedestal + Scheming heroine + Both leads are pure] The eldest son of the Xie family was as refined as a gentle breeze beneath a clear sky, as elegant as an orchid or jade tree, and, more unusually, possessed the heart of a bodhisattva. A year ago, he had taken charge of sheltering a destitute cousin who had come to seek refuge. The rescued Wanruo was deeply grateful, and looked up to and adored her cousin. Their story of a loving bro 244.1kReads9.2Score32.2kShelves

    Reader note

    📕✨️✨️Book lovers in a slump are in luck! Today I'm recommending two super captivating historical romance novels, both completed. ✅️ "The Mad Minister Who Seduces Me First: You're the One Who Stole Me," the female lead is an orphan who seeks refuge with the male lead's family to protect her younger brother, reluctantly offering herself as his concubine. The male lead is handsome and shrewd, but ruthless. Initially, he wants the female lead as a concubine, and their complicated relationship is full of twists and turns. ✅️Also, "Transmigrated into the Villainous Eldest Princess, She Won't Redeem Herself," the female lead transmigrates into the body of a villainous eldest princess in a male-oriented fantasy novel. She abandons any attempt to redeem herself and embarks on a crazy plan of evil: murdering her father to help her brother ascend the throne, suppressing the original male and female leads, and conquering a ruthless general. The love-hate relationship between the beautiful princess and the iron-blooded general is irresistible.

48. 98 吾 My Phoenix Returns 吾凰归来 Li Er'er李尔尔Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [A classic rebirth story, political intrigue and revenge, with a heroine focused on building her own career] The empress of the Kingdom of Nanyue, a legitimate daughter of a military family. She was the Prince of Yu's consort for two years and a benevolent empress for four, yet when she went into labor one day, the man she loved cut open her belly and killed their child. His reason was that she was a demon empress who would bring ruin to the nation, and that the child she bore would surely kill 2kReads9.1Score242Shelves
49. 99 别 Don't Be Weak, Don't Provoke Her: An Angry Palace Maid Can Restore a Fallen Kingdom 别太弱，别招惹，宫女发怒能复国 Ethereal Fairy霓裳妖妖Ancient Romance748k WordsCompleted [Unusual premise + assassin’s rise + strong heroine + political intrigue + cold and heartless + mildly yandere + cool-headed lunatic + male lead rises from the nth place] * Su Mian was just a palace maid serving a princess. On the day the Southern Yan Kingdom fell, she watched everyone die before her without a flicker of emotion. The princess gave her an even more perilous mission. Until it was done, she had to stay alive. But in a world thrown into chaos, she was sold as a slave and forced to e 25.6kReads9.5Score4.2kShelves

    Reader note

    A very good book. The early stages are well-foreshadowed, but the later parts are decisive, and the ending is already predetermined. I think this is the true nature of political intrigue—a single move affects everything. All the previous arrangements were for the final explosion. Even in the finale, Feng Yuan showed no mercy. Everyone has their own inevitable fate; it's their choice. The pacing is excellent, and it's very enjoyable. I love this kind of ruler who leaves no loose ends. Yuan Yuan will be a good ruler, working for the benefit of the people, not for personal gain! The ending has both joy and sorrow, which is the norm in life. It respects the development of everyone's destiny. The two little bitter gourds are finally together! I hope they find happiness in another world!

50. 100 恶 Am I the Villainess? But They All Love Me 恶女吗？可是他们都爱我呢 Little Fish Jerky o小鱼冻干oAncient Romance401k WordsCompleted [A Truly Wicked Villainess + Male Rivalry + Green Tea Seduction + A Viciously Beautiful Heroine!] Shen Ruozhu struck a deal with the System and transmigrated into the story as a highborn young lady who died early. In the original story, she was the legitimate daughter of the esteemed Chancellor. But after the heroine, the daughter of a minor fifth-rank official, arrived in the capital, she caught the eye of many men. Who would have thought that the heroine would later set her sights on Shen Ruoz 1.7kReads8.7Score231Shelves

    Reader note

    💎Feeling a book drought? Don't worry, have a spicy snack to calm down!💎 🌹First book: The female lead is Shen Ruozhu, the Crown Prince's cousin and the Prime Minister's daughter. With such high status, she still lost to someone. If given a second chance, would she still win?🌹 🌹Second book: The female lead is Pei Lingyi, the Prime Minister's daughter. She knows deeply that her family is in danger. To save her family, she must gain power and rely on them.🌹

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