A Legitimate Daughter Raised by a Prestigious Local Clan: Household Intrigue, With a Smart Female Lead 女主本土世家培养出来的嫡女，宅斗，女主不傻白甜

1. 51 嫡 Married into the Eastern Palace 嫡嫁东宫 Mei Yi Si瑂忆覗Ancient Romance510k WordsCompleted Ever since she was little, Zhou Zhou knew she was different from her sisters. That difference meant she was lucky enough to be taught by her grandfather and cherished by her grandmother. At eight, the emperor personally selected her to be the princess’s companion. She entered the palace, grew up alongside the princess, and became the childhood sweetheart of the Fifth Prince. Before the Peach Blossom Banquet held when she was fifteen, everyone said she was destined to become the Fifth Prince’s co 5.3kReads8.9Score445Shelves

   Reader note

   The novel's female protagonist, Zhou Zhou, has a rather unique upbringing. Taught by her grandfather and doted on by her grandmother from a young age, she entered the palace at eight to study alongside the princess and became childhood sweethearts with the fifth prince. This opening premise immediately presents the reader with an initial impression of a noblewoman from a prominent family in the imperial court. Unlike the typical naive and sweet female lead, Zhou Zhou is clear-headed and self-possessed. While everyone expects her to become the fifth prince's consort, she forges her own path. The romance is a major highlight of the story. Although the male and female leads don't dwell on excessive displays of affection in the early stages, the crown prince's words, "I have finally married you," hint at the undercurrents of their feelings. This transformation from mutual respect to deep love is pure and natural, free from melodramatic tropes of a "white moonlight" or power struggles. Stylistically, it's neither a purely sweet romance nor a wish-fulfillment story, but rather a story that blends the minutiae of court life, the power struggles, and genuine emotions within a classically styled narrative rhythm. With delicate strokes, the author depicts the characters' struggles and perseverance within the grand environment of the palace, giving the story a greater sense of realism and emotional depth.

2. 52 重 Reborn as the Marquis's Legitimate Daughter 重生之侯府嫡女 October's Fiery Flow十月流火Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted Born into a noble marquis's household, she was unfortunate enough to have a father who was a concubine-born son of the marquis and a mother from a merchant family. In her previous life, she devoted herself to pursuing that man, but his heart was cold and unfeeling. Now that she has been reborn, whether he's cold and heartless or not is none of her concern. She'll live her life to the fullest! Those who wronged her will get their just reward! 172Reads7.1Score—Shelves
3. 53 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
4. 54 虎 The Tiger Wife 虎妻 Lotus Flower藕花Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted The Great Qi Dynasty’s foremost God of War, the ruthless, hideous common-born general Yuchi Gui, was granted a marriage by the emperor to the capital’s greatest beauty, Princess Xu Xiyan. Then his high-born fiancée looked down on him, and the wedding was called off. Three years later, after suppressing a rebellion, the handsome and dashing general returned to the capital, becoming the hero every noblewoman in Great Qi wanted to marry. Then his former fiancée clung to him and forced him into marr 8.2kReads9.3Score1kShelves

   Reader note

   This is a pure ancient romance novel. The female protagonist is a princess. At the beginning of the novel, she breaks her own dead end, helps her brainless mother avoid being harmed, helps her cousin escape from her terrible husband's family, helps her family plan for the future, and is forced to marry a cunning general. The two have a perfect understanding and join forces.

5. 55 娘 The Consort’s Laid-Back Daily Life 娘娘的佛系日常 Springtime Sweet Orange春日甜橙Ancient Romance1.1M WordsOngoing [A lazy, carefree little schemer who just wants to lie flat + historical fantasy + palace intrigue + heroine devoted to one man, hero not devoted to one woman] The charming and clever favorite consort Lin Jingran refuses to work herself to the bone. She’s got the Noble Imperial Consort position lined up, and plans to enjoy the drama and lie flat her way to becoming Empress. Family? She’s a treasured darling of her family, too. The emperor? He openly favors her and helps her navigate palace intr 1.5kReads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   The female lead is a legitimate daughter raised in a local aristocratic family. It's a sweet and romantic historical romance about marriage first, then love, palace intrigue, and domestic drama. The female lead is not a naive and innocent girl. The male and female leads are childhood sweethearts. They are respectful to each other in the early stages of their marriage, but fall in love later. The female lead comes from a noble family and is clear-headed and intelligent. Both the male and female leads are talkative. After entering the palace, the female lead is clear-headed and not love-struck or naive. She rises step by step to a high-ranking concubine through palace intrigue. She has a very upright moral compass and does not harm others. She is also someone who will repay kindness and avenge wrongs.

6. 56 小 Listening to Spring Rain All Night in a Small Tower 小楼一夜听春雨 Bright Moon Tilts明月倾Ancient Romance876k WordsCompleted A critically acclaimed historical romance ensemble that topped the annual charts! A calculating, lovesick beauty versus a dark, scheming top scholar! A historical take on Pride and Prejudice: life in the inner household isn't all scheming and rivalry, but also deep sisterly affection. The clever and capable Second Madam Lou takes the greatest pride in her life in having three beautiful daughters. To marry her three marriageable girls into “good” families, she travels a great distance to the capi 35.1kReads9.6Score5.7kShelves

   Reader note

   This book contains no rebirth, no time travel, and no naive, saintly characters. The author's writing is excellent, unfolding the story in a gentle and engaging manner. It's a very enjoyable ensemble piece.

7. 57 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

   The female lead, the legitimate daughter of the Duke's family, is not a saint but very intelligent. Recommendation rating: 5 stars.

8. 58 青 The Childhood Sweetheart Consort Rises to Power, Her Goal Is to Become Empress Dowager! 青梅侧妃上位，目标是太后位！ Xiao Yan Wants to Get Rich小闫要暴富Ancient Romance593k WordsCompleted [Domestic scheming in the early stages, palace intrigue later; the leads are not both faithful~] [The heroine loves the hero but keeps her feelings in check, staying clear-headed and never obsessed. The hero cares for her, but as emperor he has to balance the court, and there will be no shortage of women around him. The heroine is special to him!] An unexpected imperial decree changed Jiang Qingyue from the Princess Consort of Prince Qing to his secondary consort overnight. The emperor’s favor a 4.6kReads8.3Score383Shelves

   Reader note

   The female lead likes the male lead but is restrained, clear-headed and not obsessed; the male lead has feelings for the female lead, but as an emperor, he needs to balance the court, so he will have many women around him, but the female lead is special.

9. 59 夫 Madam Crooks Her Finger to Train Her Dog, and Her Man Obediently Follows 夫人勾手训狗，爷乖乖就走 Xiao Tianyi小甜一Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted (A proud, sharp-tongued hero whose actions belie his words × a clever, beautiful heroine who knows how to tame men) By her parents’ arrangement and the matchmaker’s word, Qiao Qiao marries Xie Heng, the third son of the Xie family, whose family has been close to hers for generations. The Xie family is complicated, with many sisters-in-law to contend with. On top of that, Third Master Xie is aloof by nature and comes from a military examination background. Everyone says Qiao Qiao will be worn out 14kReads9.0Score1.5kShelves

   Reader note

   This book!!! The female lead is very clear-headed, and the romance between the male and female leads is written very delicately. Highly recommended!!!

10. 60 孕 My Husband Wants a Divorce While I'm Pregnant? Fine, Whatever You Want! 孕期夫君要和离？随你都随你！ Fu Bao芙宝Ancient Romance331k WordsCompleted Shu Yuwan is the youngest legitimate daughter in her family. Her parents and elder brothers have cherished her since childhood, and her mother carefully chose a distinguished young gentleman from the capital to be her husband. After their wedding, the couple may not have been inseparable, but they treated each other with mutual respect. But while she was pregnant, her husband claimed he had met an extraordinary woman who had left him awestruck. He wanted a divorce so he could marry her. Shu Yuwa 11kReads8.9Score1.5kShelves

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    Shu Yuwan was a noblewoman from a high-ranking family in the capital, and she and her husband were originally quite loving. However, her husband fell in love with a transmigrated woman who had come to challenge him from a higher dimension. Their relationship failed, leading to the destruction of Shu Yuwan's family. Reborn, Shu Yuwan divorced her husband and returned home, solely to prevent the tragedy of her past life. She foresaw the transmigrated woman's predictions and stayed ahead of the curve, not only averting her family's destruction but also becoming the Empress, shattering the transmigrated woman's sense of superiority.

11. 61 世 The Heir's Everyday Life of Spoiling His Wife 世子爷养妻日常 The Mountains Are Nowhere to Be Seen山山不见Ancient Romance818k WordsCompleted (Marriage first, love later, sweet romance, feel-good power fantasy, both leads have been faithful) Song Qianlan is the eldest legitimate daughter of the prime minister’s household. Ordered by imperial decree to marry the heir of the Duke of Dingguo, all she wants is a respectful marriage and a peaceful life. Xie Yan is the heir of the Duke of Dingguo. Married by imperial decree, he has just one request of his wife: behave herself and keep out of trouble. With their mutual understanding that the 21.7kReads8.8Score1.6kShelves

    Reader note

    This, this, this

12. 62 王 Sweet Everyday Life in the Prince’s Mansion 王府甜宠日常 Xu Lian序连Ancient Romance443k WordsCompleted [Past and Present Lives 1v1 + Marriage Before Love + Mutual Devotion] Wen Sisi was crown princess for five years. The crown prince appeared to be a loving husband, but in truth he loathed her. From their wedding night onward, he sought out his concubines, and in the end he personally caused her death before elevating the concubine he loved to the position of his principal wife. Reborn, Wen Sisi ignored the crown prince's flirtatious hints and chose to marry Liu Xuan, Prince of Jingjiang, a man o 12.3kReads9.1Score1.5kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommend this show, it's so good you can't stop watching. The female lead is the legitimate daughter of a prominent local family, of noble birth, elegant demeanor, and profound knowledge. She helps the male lead stabilize the household and navigates the power struggles within the family and the palace with ease.

13. 63 侯 Jiang Congnan, the Marquis's Eldest Daughter 侯门长女江从南 Meng Ri Wan梦日万Ancient Romance608k WordsCompleted The marquis’s principal wife had only two daughters. Who would inherit the title? Until she was twelve, Jiang Congnan was pampered at home like a treasured guest. That year, seeing her mother tormented by her grandmother for failing to bear a son, she made a bold move: she went to Qingfeng Abbey outside the city, took up a lay practitioner’s life, and prayed for her grandmother’s good fortune. She stayed there for three years. Three years later, the question of who would inherit the title of Mar 4.4kReads8.8Score497Shelves

    Reader note

    The first book tells the story of a woman who turns a bad hand into a winning one, gradually escaping the clutches of a scumbag boyfriend. The second book features a woman who, through strategic planning and forbearance, eventually builds her career. Both are highly recommended.

14. 64 区 How Could a Mere Transmigrator Ever Beat a Proper Lady? 区区穿越女，怎斗得过大家闺秀！ Mu Shiwan慕十皖Ancient Romance370k WordsCompleted [Pure palace intrigue in a fictional setting] [Native-born heroine and transmigrated second female lead from an old-fashioned novel] [Fake heiress and real heiress] Su Qingwan, the legitimate daughter of the Chancellor’s household, was raised by the Empress from childhood and personally taught the importance of having a sharp tongue. Meanwhile, she studied The Tyrannical Crown Prince Falls for Me inside and out, annotating it and writing daily summaries of her takeaways. Next door, the Crown 513Reads7.6Score100Shelves

    Reader note

    I really love all three of these books.

15. 65 土 The Native Matriarch Makes a Bold Entrance and Takes on Everyone 土著主母霸气侧漏，单挑全场 First-Rate Red Chamber一品红楼Ancient Romance640k WordsCompleted [A strong heroine at heart + mature adults building their careers] He Fangting was the quintessential noblewoman, with no flaw beyond being despised by her imperial uncle, the emperor. After marrying, she became a capable lady of the house, using her generous dowry to support her husband's family and finally give them a solid foundation. One day, her husband returned from disaster relief with a female physician who had received the emperor's commendation. He Fangting admired the woman and prepar 19.9kReads9.2Score2.5kShelves

    Reader note

    I just finished reading this book. Although she's already the matriarch, she's still the legitimate daughter of a princess and a marquis, possessing a noble status. From the inner quarters to the imperial court, she eventually becomes empress, ruling under two emperors. Her scheming and ruthlessness are truly remarkable. She's disliked by the reigning emperor and her uncle, and when her husband brings home another woman and tries to take over both of Yao's wives, becoming the elder sister-in-law, she refuses to back down. In the early stages, she's considerate of her children and doesn't dare to go all out, but later, discovering they're all ungrateful, she can ruthlessly leave them. There are many memorable scenes. In her very first book, she writes a letter to the censors, deciphering the emperor's thoughts, and snatches two positions from the Grand Secretaries, making a name for herself at Yunshan Academy. I recommend reading it.

16. 66 皇 The Empress Doesn't Love the Emperor, and Now He Regrets It Too Late 皇后娘娘不爱陛下，陛下追悔莫及 Mr. Fanyang范阳先生Ancient Romance271k WordsCompleted [Transmigration, emperor and empress couple, not a mutually devoted romance] The young emperor Xiao Chenyuan had just ascended the throne when he met Luo Qingning, the daughter of a military family, at a palace banquet. He fell in love at first sight and, despite her existing engagement, appointed her empress on the spot. Luo Qingning was a clear-headed university student born in the 2000s. After unexpectedly transmigrating to an unfamiliar world, she remained a committed opponent of marriage an 4.8kReads8.0Score106Shelves

    Reader note

    She is very resourceful, understands the big picture, and is not hindered by love and romance. Her palace intrigue and domestic power struggles are full of ingenious schemes and tricks. 1️⃣ The treacherous minister's eldest daughter 🆚 the great general 2️⃣ Forcibly taking a minister's wife 3️⃣ The princess 🆚 the secret guard

17. 67 惹 Offending the Imperial Daughter 惹金枝 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted (Film and television rights have been sold. The physical book will be available for preorder on July 10 at 19:00.) Shi Buyu was born smiling. At that moment, lightning flashed and thunder roared, collapsing a row of outbuildings in the Shi family compound. Days of torrential rain brought devastating floods and countless victims. Rumors soon spread through the capital that she was a disaster star sent into the world. But she was as precocious as a demon, with a photographic memory, and learned bo 257.8kReads9.7Score30.2kShelves

    Reader note

    Shi Buyu was born smiling. At that moment, lightning flashed and thunder roared, collapsing a row of outbuildings belonging to the Shi family. Several days of torrential rain brought devastating floods, affecting many. Rumors began to circulate in the capital that she was a harbinger of misfortune. However, she was precociously intelligent, possessing a photographic memory and learning both good and bad quickly. The rumors grew increasingly bizarre, even attracting inquiries from the palace. As everyone wished, Shi Buyu was exceptionally precocious by the age of three. Fifteen years later, the Marquis of Zhongyong, who guarded the border, betrayed his country and lost the city. His entire family was implicated, and everyone condemned the Shi family for their disloyalty and injustice. Even the precocious harbinger of misfortune was mentioned again. Sitting by the window, Shi Buyu listened and laughed. A harbinger of misfortune? Then she would have to live up to that reputation. (Provoking the Golden Branch)

18. 68 公 The Princess Is Fierce and Beautiful, and Her Shadow Guard Keeps Crossing the Line 公主暴戾绝色，影卫日日以下犯上 Nanhuang南凰Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Strong heroine + Feel-good power fantasy + Yandere + Devoted loyalist] Fate played a cruel trick: the most powerful imperial princess on the Jiuzhou Continent was reborn in the body of a lovesick little princess from Western Qi. The moment she awoke, the world was shaken. A scumbag points at her and curses? She orders coldly, “Drag him out and give him fifty more lashes!” The overlord of the business world is her subordinate, the most revered emperor in Jiuzhou is her older brother, the mighty 16.8kReads9.4Score2.7kShelves
19. 69 嫡 The Legitimate Daughter Marries Again: My Husband Is the Grand Secretary 嫡女另嫁：我的夫君是首辅 Lost in the Clouds and Mist云里雾里哩Ancient Romance766k WordsCompleted The eldest legitimate daughter of the Anding Marquis’s household is not only clever and graceful, gentle as jade, but also exceptionally talented. Yet her fiancé, to whom she was betrothed in childhood, publicly breaks off their engagement and turns to dote on her cousin instead. The Duke of Zhongyong’s family has produced generations of military men, but one of them became a top-ranking scholar. He is learned in the classics, widely read, quick-witted, and handsome. Perhaps his only weakness is 16.7kReads8.5Score1.9kShelves

    Reader note

    Not a saintly figure, but a legitimate daughter of a noble family with her own sense of right and wrong. This book features a ensemble cast, not just highlighting the female lead; the other women are also wonderful.

20. 70 良 The Beloved Concubine Is Alluring and Charming, Rising to the Top 良娣又娇又媚，一路盛宠上位 Zhongli Wangshu钟离望舒Ancient Romance708k WordsCompleted Chu Yao was born with an irresistible, seductive charm. Every frown and smile was captivating, yet her aunt, the Empress, treated her as a pawn and sent her to the Eastern Palace. The Crown Princess, Qin Wan, was the Crown Prince’s cousin. She had already borne him a son and a daughter, securing her position. Crown Prince Gu Jingchen hated the Empress’s influence. On their wedding night, he left Chu Yao alone and placed her in the most remote quarters, the Liuyun Pavilion. Everyone waited to lau 8.8kReads7.8Score781Shelves

    Reader note

    She's the eldest daughter of a noble family, with an older brother, and was pampered at home. After entering the palace, the male lead dotes on her; it's a very sweet, doting, and charming story.

21. 71 她 She Wields a Gentle Blade to Slay the Hearts of Emperors 她用温柔刀，斩尽帝王心 Zhongli Wangshu钟离望舒Ancient Romance724k WordsCompleted Chen Yueyi, daughter of a powerful minister, is so beautiful she could topple kingdoms. Yet she enters the most exalted cage in the realm with an air of gentle vulnerability and pure, tender virtue. Once inside the palace, she flawlessly becomes what the emperor longs for most: a pure, flawless flower who depends on him completely and adores him. Before long, she becomes the irreplaceable moonlight in his heart. Emperor Shen Yanzhi believes every word. He draws her into his arms, convinced he ha 2.1kReads8.2Score207Shelves
22. 72 嫁 Marrying into a Wealthy Family 嫁大户 Ji Qiushan积丘山Ancient Romance350k WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + merchant couple + married life + sweet everyday romance + family and village life] The heroine is gentle, clear-headed, and never lets anyone push her around. The hero is considerate, witty, and resourceful. The younger daughter of the Shen family in Baihe Town marries the second son of the Xie family, who runs a medicinal herb shop in Ping County. She hears he spends most of his time away from home and that his family has fallen on hard times. She never expec 26.8kReads9.3Score3.7kShelves

    Reader note

    It's good! The first book's writing style is somewhat reminiscent of Dream of the Red Chamber and Jin Ping Mei.

23. 73 青 The Day Qingying Entered the Palace, Wei Yanwan Became Langhua! 青樱入府当天，卫嬿婉成了琅嬅！ YH Young FishYH稚鱼Female-Channel Fanfiction285k WordsCompleted [An alternate-universe spin-off of Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace. The main cast is portrayed in a negative light, and the heroine is a villainess. Early on, she sets the original story back on track; once Ruyi enters the Cold Palace, the wish fulfillment picks up the pace! This isn’t a traditional, direct face-slapping story, so read with care if that’s not your thing, darlings.] From a little palace maid hated by everyone to an imperial noble consort revered by all, Wei Yanwan spent more than 2.4kReads9.0Score267Shelves

    Reader note

    Wanwan is beautiful when she has brains [smirk][smirk][smirk]

24. 74 误 Lost in the Exquisite Bedchamber 误入玲珑帐 A Cat, A Dog, and a Glass of Wine一猫一狗一杯酒Ancient Romance678k WordsCompleted The print edition is available on major platforms. [Pure historical romance + devoted couple + strong female lead + marriage before love + political intrigue + household rivalry] [Long-suffering princess of a fallen kingdom] X [scheming, rough-hewn prince] [Original title: The Enigma of Linglong] “A historical-romance version of Mr. and Mrs. Smith: outwardly united, secretly plotting against each other.” To seize power, Linglong spent sixteen years disguised as a young master named Ling, studyin 8.7kReads9.3Score1.2kShelves
25. 75 反 The Reverse Transmigration Trope: A White Moonlight Arrives at the Prince's Manor 反反穿越套路：王府来了个白月光 Mo Yun Yao莫云谣Two Female Leads251k WordsCompleted Are people from ancient times always bound to lose to someone who transmigrates from the future? Not necessarily. And does that mean someone from the future is always as stupid as a pig, easily crushed by people from the past? Also not necessarily. Shen Yunxuan is the legitimate granddaughter of Grand Tutor Shen, a high-ranking official of the first rank. She grew up cherished and indulged, and was betrothed at a young age by imperial decree to Jing Chenming, the Prince of the Western Expedition 198Reads9.0Score—Shelves
26. 76 明 Marry Me Beneath the Bright Moon 明月嫁卿卿 Rabbit Purple Moonrise兔紫月上Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Song Chuyu thought she and Kang Rui were deeply in love, and that no one could ever come between them. Yet that person had been living by their side all along, pampered under the title of “sister-in-law.” After being reborn, Song Chuyu didn’t spare Kang Rui a glance as he rode through the streets in triumph, and she certainly wouldn’t marry him again. * When Kang Rui woke up to find himself back in the impoverished days of his youth, he struggled to get used to the drafty windows after having li 85.4kReads9.3Score10.9kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommended! I absolutely love Song Chuyu's noble and dignified demeanor as a legitimate daughter – she exudes an aura of great character.

27. 77 软 Delicate and Soft-Boned 软骨娇美 Zhong Zhizhong钟之中Ancient Romance202k WordsCompleted [Devoted Couple + Sweet Romance + Princess Consort] A painting made Prince Ling pine after the daughter of the Mu family for years. After years of maneuvering against his future father-in-law, he finally married the girl who had captured his heart. And, of course, he spoiled her rotten. For some reason, though, every one of their children turned out rebellious, making their young princess consort angry every single day. 300Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    [Not a strong female lead story + pure historical romance] The female lead is the legitimate daughter of a general, and the male lead is a prince. The male lead and the female lead's father were master and apprentice in the military camp. The female lead's father was about to go to war and, worried that his daughter would be bullied at home, he married her to the male lead. The male lead had seen the female lead's portrait in the military camp before. Sweet romance, both leads are virgins.

28. 78 锁 Locked in the Spring Night 锁春宵 Banana Pizza香蕉披萨Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + reborn + revenge on scum + sweet romance + mutually faithful] In her previous life, Su Qingyu had been married for three years without ever consummating the marriage. Then her cousin suddenly appeared before her with a child, and Su Qingyu finally learned that the man wasn't impotent. He just couldn't perform with her. Her cousin stripped off Su Qingyu's face, took her place as the legitimate daughter of the marquis's household, and became the matriarch of the S 33.3kReads9.3Score5.6kShelves
29. 79 帝 The Imperial Terrace's Charm: The Noble Consort Is Beautiful and Well-Behaved 帝台娇：贵妃娘娘她又美又乖 Mu Niannian慕年年Ancient Romance501k WordsCompleted [Harem intrigue + climbing the ranks and crushing the villains + doting romance. The male lead knows his own heart. He'll devote himself to her alone later on.] [The heroine rises through the ranks quickly at first, then more slowly later on.] [The heroine comes from a noble family, is the most beautiful woman in the harem, and already has two adorable children. The Emperor falls for her first and favors her from early on, before devoting himself to her alone in the middle and later parts.] By a 20.5kReads9.4Score2kShelves
30. 80 她 She Broke Off the Engagement Without Hesitation! Her Reborn Ex-Husband Chases Her to His Doom 她毅然退亲！重生前夫追妻火葬场 Win the Lottery天中大奖Ancient Romance515k WordsCompleted (Both leads are reborn + rekindled love + no misunderstandings + the husband’s long road to winning her back + sweet romance) [In their previous life, she loved him; in this life, he loves her] Scene One: One day, the Marquis of Dingnan was choosing a husband for his daughter. Pointing at a portrait, he said: “This one’s nostrils are too big. What if An’an’s children inherit them?” “This one’s eyes are too small.” He had reason to suspect they were just for show. “This one’s too short.” He was s 4kReads8.9Score303Shelves
31. 81 贵 The Consort Is Ravishing, and the Emperor Can’t Stop Spoiling Her 贵妃美艳动人，皇上宠不停 Yan Haixing燕海行Ancient Romance200k WordsCompleted In the third year of Chen'an, the Shu family's legitimate daughter entered the palace. Once you pass through the palace gates, you enter a sea of unfathomable depths, where true love is no more. Shu Yao had been beautiful since childhood, her bright eyes sparkling as they turned, leaving countless men in the capital utterly captivated. Her entry into the palace broke countless men's hearts. Shu Yao had been groomed for this since childhood, with a clear goal: the emperor's favor and her family's 595Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This one is perfect! 🙃🙃🙃

32. 82 侯 The Marquis's Estate Forgot Its Gratitude? The Regent Backs Me, and I Won't Forgive Them 侯府忘恩义？摄政王撑腰，不原谅 Chu Diandian初点点Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Luo Ning took a blade meant for the Empress Dowager and suffered severe injuries, trading her life for her family's noble title. She went south to recuperate for three years, but when she returned, she discovered that her maternal cousin had taken over her courtyard. Her cousin had even replaced her in every aspect. Luo Ning's parents and elder brother adored her, her grandmother favored her, and even Luo Ning's childhood sweetheart secretly admired her, saying that she surpassed Luo Ning in eve 180.6kReads9.4Score27kShelves

    Reader note

    In her previous life, the female protagonist was trapped by so-called maternal love, which led to her being killed by her cousin and her biological mother. Given a second chance, she no longer expects so-called maternal love and comes only for revenge. Her father's official position was obtained by the female protagonist shielding the Empress Dowager from a knife. However, during the three years that the female protagonist returned to her hometown to recuperate, the whole family cherished the cousin and even lived in her courtyard. Whether it was her brother, father, or mother, everyone protected the cousin. Therefore, the first thing the female protagonist did upon returning was to take back her courtyard and then take revenge step by step. The so-called cousin was actually her mother's illegitimate daughter.

33. 83 温 Sixth Miss of the Wen Family 温府六姑娘 Qian Suixi Yue千遂玺月Ancient Romance1.3M WordsOngoing [Reborn + bold, direct pursuit of husband + sickly powerful official falls for her + household intrigue] Before she was reborn, Wen Jiu failed to see people's true nature and ended up dying a tragic death after jumping from a building, while her entire family was destroyed. Reborn, she lay low for years, then tore off her gentle facade. Her enemies? She smiled as she sent them to hell. To repay a debt of gratitude, she began all sorts of flirtatious campaigns to win her husband over. But the man 3.8kReads7.1Score343Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a must-read! (So far) the female lead is incredibly ruthless when she kills someone! And every time she sees the male lead, she's relentlessly flirting with him. Even when there's a misunderstanding, she's the first to trust him, and she deliberately plays hard to get! Basically, she uses all sorts of methods. There's no hesitation or unnecessary words! But this story is a slow and steady climb; it's not the kind where the protagonist is incredibly powerful from the start or can predict everything. It develops gradually, and!!! The male and female supporting characters aren't brainless!

34. 84 你 You Want a Divorce? Fine, I'll Marry Again! The Duke Has Lost His Mind 你和离？我再嫁！国公爷他疯了 Lan Qiao栏桥Ancient Romance500k WordsCompleted [Palace intrigue + household battles + crushing scumbags + female physician + marriage before love + doting husband + building a prosperous life] After transmigrating into the body of an adopted daughter of a fifth-rank viscount’s family who died a tragic death, Xue Nai nearly gets caught in bed with a man on her very first day! With no other choice, she sends the lecher west to seek Buddhist scriptures. Her fiancé has fallen for a scheming legitimate daughter? Then she’ll write a letter breakin —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A new ancient romance novel with a captivating plot, a bright and intelligent female lead, and highlights in every chapter.

35. 85 穿 The Book Transmigrator Tears into the Reborn Woman, Even Ripping Out Her Hair Ornaments 穿书女手撕重生女，头花都扯掉了 Camellias and Wine茶花与酒Ancient Romance507k WordsCompleted (Don’t worry about the rating. New books have few readers at first, but it will rise.) [A transmigrated woman takes on a reborn woman] [Fictional ancient setting, no need to nitpick] Gu Qingli transmigrated into a satisfying revenge novel about a woman reborn. She wasn’t the heroine, but the wicked supporting character who had killed her, and the first person the heroine would take revenge on after being reborn. Gu Qingli herself had been born into a political family. She was gentle, quiet, an 12.9kReads8.9Score996Shelves

    Reader note

    Being reborn as a supporting female character is difficult enough, but the female lead is reborn on the spot, completely throwing the plot into chaos. A battle of wits and courage, with constant twists and turns, how will the supporting female character rewrite her destiny? A novel premise, high-energy throughout.

36. 86 嫡 The Legitimate Daughter's Cunning, and Her Way with Husbands 嫡女善谋，御夫有道 Optimistic Sunflower乐天派向日葵Ancient Romance421k WordsCompleted [Calculating Earl’s Legitimate Daughter vs. Cold and Ruthless Heir to the Duke] [Power Couple, Sweet Romance] Shen Yunshu, the eldest legitimate daughter of the Earl of Xiting, is the only legitimate heir of her generation. But her father, Lord Shen, favors a beautiful young concubine who has both a son and a daughter, while her domineering grandmother can’t stand her either. Always calm and unruffled, Shen Yunshu only wants to live a quiet life with her mother. Yet people keep trying to disrupt 9.5kReads9.2Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    In the northern part of Bianjing City, there is an Apricot Blossom Lane, inhabited by earls whose ancestors had been granted titles. The innermost household is that of the Earl of Xiting. Today, the Earl of Xiting's mansion is bustling with activity, and the Xianxian Courtyard where Aunt Ji lives is especially lively, with servants coming and going, their faces beaming with joy.

37. 87 明 The Bright Moon Shines on Yunhuai 明月昭昭向云淮 Lin Jianxi林间溪Ancient Romance1.6M WordsCompleted A noble family's eldest daughter × a powerful Chancellor, a sweet romance from beginning to end. One is a clever, rational beauty, while the other is a dignified and self-controlled man who falls helplessly in love. Everyone says: The most impressive achievement of the Chancellor who holds power over the court was spoiling the most carefree Chancellor's wife in all of Great Sheng. 664Reads—Score108Shelves

    Reader note

    The childhood sweethearts reunion after a long separation is such a sweet romance. The female lead is a dignified and intelligent eldest daughter of a noble family, while the male lead is a ruthless and decisive young minister. After their reunion, they develop feelings for each other, and together they slap the face of the vicious female supporting character, resolve family and court crises, and embark on a two-way journey without any angst.

38. 88 王 The Princess Consort's Married Life 王妃的婚后日常 Cloud Mud云泥巴Ancient Romance314k WordsCompleted Neither the heroine nor the hero is reborn or transmigrates, and neither has a golden finger. A quiet, everyday story of love after marriage, set in a purely ancient setting. The heroine’s beauty is an asset. Her upbringing has made her cold and aloof, slow to warm up, and self-centered. The hero is taciturn and sharp-tongued, and his temperament becomes even harder to read after his leg is injured. Wei Zi is naturally beautiful and wants to marry into a powerful family so she can live a carefre 168Reads5.8Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Daily life after marriage, purely ancient Chinese setting, no cheat codes.

39. 89 小 The Easygoing Wife 小闲妻 Yu Tangluo玉糖萝Ancient Romance584k WordsOngoing [Historical court intrigue, richly traditional atmosphere, no transmigration or rebirth, household-intrigue ensemble, clever and capable heroine, devoted and protective hero] Cen Ruxi spent two years caring for Jiang Huai, the blind and deaf heir of the Duke’s household, in place of her legitimate younger sister. After the heir regained his sight, her sister Cen Ruyi took credit for her work and married him. Cen Ruxi, meanwhile, was ordered by her family to marry the Third Prince, Zhao Yao, a no 453Reads8.1Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    It's not at all a naive and innocent story; both the male and female leads are intelligent and quick-witted. There's no time travel or reincarnation, and it's set in a classic, period style.

40. 90 继 The Wise Empress Who Never Tries to Improve 继后贤后娘娘她总是不上进 Springtime Sweet Orange春日甜橙Ancient Romance133k WordsOngoing [Lazy-Fish Empress + Wife-Doting Emperor + Sweet, Exclusively Doted-On Romance] Yan Zhaoyuan was born into the Chu dukes' family as their beloved youngest daughter. She never knew hardship growing up, and by the time she was fifteen, she had never had to suffer through life's difficulties. When she was granted a marriage and made empress, she planned to take things easy, lie flat, and slack off until retirement. Before she had even done anything, the young emperor was already clinging to her lik 221Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    1. Both protagonists are virgins, both are favored, the male lead is the legitimate daughter of the emperor and the female lead is the empress. (Time travel) 2. The female lead is a spoiled and scheming imperial concubine, both are virgins and the male lead is not. She is favored, and the palace intrigue is mostly handled by a laid-back, easygoing female lead. She is clear-headed, intelligent, not a love-struck or naive girl, and has a sharp tongue, so there are no misunderstandings.

41. 91 让 They Wanted Me to Be a Sacrificial Stepmother, but I Chose to Make My Own Way 让我当炮灰主母，我偏另谋高枝 Ji Yun霁妘Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Historical Romance / Household Intrigue / Sweet Romance / The Male Lead Is Head Over Heels] In Ruyi's Beloved Concubine, the heir apparent Xie Yunzhix is a brave and formidable warrior, always dashing across the battlefield in fine clothes, with no one able to stand against him. Sadly, he is only a supporting character. The story opens with him in a vegetative state, leaving behind three adopted sons. Xu Qingyi discovers that she has become the foil to the beloved heroine of a sweet romance. On 139.3kReads9.4Score20.5kShelves

    Reader note

    I watched it all in one go! There were absolutely no meal replacements!! It was so satisfying…

42. 92 青 The Fate of the Green Hairpin 青簪缘 Qing Man Wu Sha轻嫚武纱Ancient Romance782k WordsCompleted [Unhinged Male Lead + Forced Love + Fleeing Heroine] Shi Muqing was originally just a modern woman who had transmigrated into another world. Because of the Shi family’s standing at court, she was inexplicably noticed by the Third Prince, Murong Yuan, and drawn into the struggle for the throne among the three princes of Great Qi. She had once sincerely fallen for his tenderness, but she refused to become just one of his many women. When she first entered the palace, she kept making mistakes, hopi 914Reads9.3Score105Shelves

    Reader note

    Qing'er, my first wish is for you to live a life as serene and prosperous as the mountains and rivers, where the winds and clouds rise and fall. My second wish is for you to have a smooth and worry-free life, where all your desires are fulfilled. My third wish is for you to enjoy spring's joy, summer's peace, autumn's tranquility, and winter's happiness. May your love be deep and lasting, and may your happiness be boundless. Two years, one woman. The male lead initially pretends to be a dissolute, down-on-his-luck prince, falling in love with the female lead at first sight. Later, he goes mad, criticizing the male lead for burning himself to bring down the crown prince, and forcibly taking the female lead. Later still, fearing the female lead's involvement in court intrigue, he neglects her, causing her to misunderstand and fake her death to escape. The second male lead is a refined and elegant scholar, the white moonlight, the original host's beloved after the female lead's soul transmigrates. The second male lead is deeply devoted; I like him—refined, elegant, gentle, and affectionate.

43. 93 王 The Prince Seeks the Minister's Legitimate Daughter's Hand in Marriage 王爷求娶侍郎嫡女 Er Dong Mu Zi耳东木子Ancient Romance399k WordsCompleted [Historical fantasy + slice of life] Wen Er, the legitimate daughter of the Wen family and granddaughter of the Marquis of Ding’an, lost her mother at birth and was taken away from the capital to the frontier. When Ying Xin returned to the capital, she fainted at the city gate, making that the first impression she gave those people. She used her frail health as a disguise, concealing what she had really learned. Qin Jinnan, Prince Jin of the Great Qin state, was the only younger brother of t 79Reads6.3Score—Shelves
44. 94 侯 Is It Really So Hard to Choose Between Mistress of the Marquess’s House and a Prince’s Secondary Consort? 侯府主母还是皇子侧妃，很难选吗 A Mandarin Orange on My Head头顶一颗砂糖橘Ancient Romance574k WordsCompleted [Alternate ancient setting + palace and household intrigue + both reborn + daily life + no romance] In her previous life, Yu Youwei wanted to escape the marriage arranged for her by her stepmother, Madam Tong. In accordance with her late birth mother’s wishes, she hoped to become the Sixth Prince’s concubine. Her younger half-sister tried to sabotage her, but she still managed to marry into the prince’s household. She had planned to coast through life, but those around her wouldn’t let her. She 278Reads8.0Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist has a tragic past; her biological mother died, and her father doesn't care for her. Desperate to escape her cannibalistic family, she uses various methods to become the mistress of the Marquis's mansion, disciplining the not-so-bright heir, and maintaining a close relationship with her mother-in-law.

45. 95 侯 A Legitimate Marquis's Wife's Daily Life as Mistress of the Household 侯府嫡夫人管家日常 Wan Yu婉雨Ancient Romance120k WordsCompleted The Marchioness of Dingyuan had her eye on a young woman from the Jiang family from the very beginning. Unfortunately, the Jiang family lived far away in Qingzhou, and the distance stood in the way. In the sixth year of Magistrate Jiang’s tenure in Qingzhou, the eldest Jiang son passed the imperial examination with top honors. At last, the emperor promoted the family, appointing him Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, a second-rank official, and the entire family moved to the capital. At once, t 2.1kReads5.3Score214Shelves
46. 96 月 Moonlight on the Spring River 月映春江色 Linzhong Guanzhi霖中观致Ancient Romance291k WordsCompleted [Sweet historical romance, devoted couple, a brave and clever heroine with strong principles who never lets herself be mistreated] (No transmigration, rebirth, or System) [1v1] The hero is devoted, and the heroine is independent and self-assured. [Beautiful, clever, cool-headed noblewoman vs. devoted, wife-doting general] In the fifteenth year of the Jiazhao era, victory comes at the border, and General Yan Yunmo returns in triumph. At court, he asks the emperor to arrange his marriage to Jiang 139Reads5.6Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is a near-perfect heiress from a high-ranking family—gentle, well-mannered, beautiful, and talented. She never causes trouble, but she's not afraid of it either. The male lead is a love-struck, doting husband, while the male supporting character is a mad prince.

47. 97 国 The Duke's Legitimate Daughter Is Peerless 国公府嫡女风华绝代 Deer and Well鹿与井Ancient Romance90k WordsCompleted [Versatile, levelheaded duke’s legitimate daughter vs. sharp-tongued, scheming young general] What kind of sparks will fly between them? Tang Jiuwei is like a bird longing to fly free. She doesn’t want to spend this life trapped in the household, raising children for her husband and growing old alone. So she has to become stronger! She doesn’t need to rely on anyone at all... 1Reads—Score—Shelves
48. 98 满 Spring Over the City 满城春 A Copper Coin一枚铜钱Ancient Romance560k WordsCompleted [New Bonus Chapters] The Liu family of the capital is an illustrious noble house, so powerful that even the imperial clan treats them with deference. Liu Yan, the youngest legitimate daughter of the Liu family's second branch, is gifted and blessed with both wisdom and good fortune. When her stepmother joins the family as she turns five, Liu Yan expects a fierce battle. But her stepmother turns out to be quite unlike anyone expected. With her older brother looking out for her and her childhood s 15.5kReads9.4Score1.7kShelves

    Reader note

    No time travel, no reincarnation. Liu Yan, the youngest legitimate daughter of the second branch of the Liu family, is exceptionally intelligent and blessed with both fortune and wisdom. When she was five, her stepmother entered the family. She expected a fierce battle, but this stepmother turned out to be quite different. Protected by her brother, with her childhood sweetheart by her side, and doting from her family, she enjoys a deep bond with her mother. This is a domestic drama without the typical power struggles, a sweet and heartwarming childhood romance, with a grand scope and excellent writing, avoiding awkward fight scenes, similar to "The Story of Minglan."

49. 99 春 Spring Banquet 春日宴 Egrets in Pairs白鹭成双Ancient Romance664k WordsCompleted She kept male favorites and toyed with powerful ministers! For eight years, the arrogant and tyrannical Princess Danyang, Li Huaiyu, wreaked havoc across the court and country. She died on the day the new emperor ascended the throne, bleeding from every orifice in a truly gruesome death. The officials celebrated and the people rejoiced: Evil gets what it deserves! Good riddance! Yet on the seventh day after her death, Princess Danyang returned to life in the body of the Bai family’s Fourth Mis 13.6kReads9.4Score2.3kShelves

    Reader note

    [Thumbs up][Thumbs up][Thumbs up] The first book is truly the undisputed top-ranked ancient Chinese romance novel with a tragic ending; I almost cried myself to sleep in bed in the middle of the night. The second book is by the same author as the first, Bai Lu Cheng Shuang, and their writing is excellent. The third book is also very heart-wrenching.

50. 100 青 The Scent of Childhood Sweethearts: The Heir Has Been Plotting This for Ages 青梅嗅：世子他蓄谋已久 Jie Ximo杰西莫Ancient Romance372k WordsCompleted [Childhood sweethearts + young married couple + long-planned pursuit + mutual devotion and favoritism] [Brash, straightforward commandery princess × scheming, jealous heir to a noble title] The Princess Royal’s residence and the Prince of Zhenbei’s estate are separated by just one wall. From the moment Jiang Changning was born, Xie Yan gained a nemesis in this world. Whenever the two met, they could argue so loudly they’d bring down the rafters. Then one day, Jiang Changning was betrothed b 20.8kReads9.1Score2.3kShelves

    Reader note

    Childhood sweethearts, innocent and carefree. A young couple.

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