Looking for Historical Romance Political Intrigue Where the Male and Female Leads Are Highly Intelligent and Join Forces 有没有那种古言权谋的那种男女主是高智商强强联合

1. 1 弑 After Killing the Emperor, My Archenemy and I Are Bound Together for Good 弑君后，我和死对头锁死了 Two Times Four Means Prosperity二四得发Ancient Romance438k WordsCompleted [Mutual Purity] [Uncle and Sister-in-Law] [Emotional Push and Pull] [Mind Games and Steamy Romance] [Bickering Couple] [Two Strong Leads] [Happy Ending] The comic is now available. Search Tomato Novel for "After Killing the Emperor, My Archenemy and I Were Bound Together" to read it. -- Empress Su Li had a dream. In it, Emperor Jingchang took her on a trip south of the Yangtze, then poisoned her at an inn and made it look like suicide. After her death, Emperor Jingchang also schemed to have her 20.8kReads9.2Score3kShelves

   Reader note

   A historical romance with political intrigue; the male and female leads are incredibly cunning, and everyone in the cast is highly intelligent.

2. 2 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 165.6kReads9.6Score23.2kShelves
3. 3 疯 The Mad Princess Marries a Powerful Eunuch 疯批公主她嫁了个高权宦官 Yin Yu尹玉Ancient Romance499k WordsCompleted {Devoted couple, two strong leads, historical setting, political intrigue, revenge, switched marriages, marriage before love} One is a spoiled and willful princess; the other, a ruthless and bloodthirsty minister. An unexpected marriage swap brings Feng Yuan and Jiang Yu together. Just as everyone waits to laugh at them after the wedding, they realize things are taking a strange turn. Feng Yuan knows full well that she must wear the false mask the world expects of her to hide herself even deeper 7kReads9.3Score956Shelves
4. 4 公 The Princess Uses Herself as Bait to Lure the Powerful Minister into Her Bedchamber 公主以身为诱，撩权臣入罗帷 Ye Yinchan叶吟蝉Ancient Romance250k WordsCompleted [The low rating is only because not enough people have read it~] [Clever, flirtatious princess × Abstinent, domineering regent] [Career-minded heroine × Love-struck hero + Both Reborn + Sweet Romance + Both Chaste, One-on-One] In her previous life, Jiang He lost her brother to murder and her mother was deposed. She was caught up in the fallout and sent to live in seclusion at an ancient temple. When she finally returned to the capital, her useless royal brothers tried to force her into a politic 88Reads8.2Score—Shelves
5. 5 王 The Princess Consort Pretends to Be Sickly and Weak, Then Unleashes Her Wildest Scheme! 王妃扮最弱的病，掀最狂的局！ BiBiAncient Romance2.2M WordsOngoing A double-award-winning romance between the “Queen of Intelligence” and the “Master of the Night.” “Max-level expert” + “two powerful leads exposing each other's secret identities” + “marriage first, love later” + the world as their game board Shen Mo Yue, the international top spy known as “Ghost,” transmigrates and becomes the laughingstock of the capital after trying to kill herself over the crown prince. Her family sends her overnight to an estate on the frontier to “recuperate.” “Pathetic 8.3kReads8.8Score1.1kShelves

   Reader note

   🍅These are must-haves in any historical romance novel about political intrigue. Seriously, they're meticulously crafted, full of intricate details, and absolutely mindless. Go for it!

6. 6 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 25.6kReads9.5Score4.1kShelves
7. 7 惜 Cherishing Flowers 惜花芷 Kong Liu空留Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [The original novel behind the TV adaptation starring Hu Yitian and Zhang Jingyi] After keeping her talents hidden for fifteen years, Hua Zhi thought she could spend her life as a proper aristocratic young lady, living in peace. But when the Hua family’s fortunes collapse, she has no choice but to reveal her sharp edge and hold the storm-tossed household together. Being out in public becomes the norm, and so does galloping through the streets. When all else fails, she even carries a coffin on he 18.6kReads9.6Score4.2kShelves
8. 8 昭 The Chaos of Zhaohua 昭华乱 See Fortune at First Sight, Meow一见生财瞄Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Available in print. Search "Zhaohua Rebellion" on any platform to purchase.] [Strong female lead, satisfying revenge, high-IQ palace intrigue, the heroine schemes against the entire harem, a dangerously unhinged antagonist] Song Zhao has always been a woman who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, and she has always seen the world more clearly than anyone else. From the moment she learned that Xiao Jingheng had chosen her to enter the palace as a consort, her goal was crystal clear: "I en 88.6kReads9.5Score9.7kShelves
9. 9 献 Offering to the Abyss 献京渊 Qi Yi Zi七一子Ancient Romance528k WordsCompleted [Print edition releasing October 25] “He taught me to kill, seize power, and look after myself. I taught him what it means to have a weakness.” [Serious drama + political intrigue + the fate of the nation and its people + I’m terrible at writing blurbs] Jiang Qingyu was born into wealth, and her family’s love had made her naive and pampered. It wasn’t until the day the entire Jiang family was executed that she realized how foolish she had been! When she opened her eyes again, she was determined 25.2kReads9.5Score4kShelves
10. 10 权 The Powerful Prince’s Spoiled Princess: Proud, Wild, and Unruly 权王溺宠：狂傲王妃野又撩 Green Plums and Bamboo Wine青梅竹酒Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Court intrigue + feel-good power fantasy + ruthless decisiveness + an incredibly badass heroine + face-slapping + a heroine with her wits about her] Bai Xuan, commander-in-chief of the Huaxia Special Forces Training Camp, transmigrates to the Great Zhou. She is a peerless beauty with exceptional martial skills. As a woman, she carves her own path through force of arms, establishes herself at court, and wields enormous influence. With a deft hand, she turns the tide of both schemes and open stra 16.3kReads9.4Score2.3kShelves

    Reader note

    It's incredibly good!!! The plot is fast-paced, and the female lead is very intelligent! She's very clear-headed, and despite many people liking her, she resolutely chooses Prince Xiao. There are some truly heartbreaking moments 😢 It's simply indescribably good! Words can't express it! My heart aches most for Yue Sha 😢 (Please check how long I've been reading, thank you 😘)

11. 11 嫡 Reborn Heiress Saves the Marquis's Estate, While an Obsessive Prince Steals Her Heart 嫡女重生镇侯府，偏执王爷夺佳人 Qi Xiaoke柒小可Ancient Romance182k WordsOngoing [Love After Marriage | Revenge and Political Schemes | Sweet Romance and Feel-Good Payoff | Both Leads Are Pure and Powerful] [Quick-Witted, Mischievous Legitimate Daughter × Obsessive, Scheming Prince] Reborn on the day she was falsely accused of losing her virtue, the mischievous legitimate daughter tears into her enemies, only to catch the eye of an obsessive mad prince! Rong Xiaoxuan: "The game is afoot. You saved me, so don't even think about escaping me in this life!" Feng Qingwu: "Gentlen 13.3kReads—Score250Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is really good. The male and female leads are both very intelligent.

12. 12 缚 Bound by Spring 缚春情 Ren Huanyou任欢游Ancient Romance603k WordsCompleted [The print edition is available on the homepage; film and television rights have been sold] The Jiang and Song families have been close for generations, and Song Wan was betrothed to Jiang Xingjian before she was even born. They grew up together, but she was confined to the inner quarters, where everything she learned was meant to prepare her to become a Jiang family wife. The young man was dashing and ambitious. Before he had even turned twenty, he went off to the frontier to make his name. Bef 93kReads9.6Score12.4kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommend!!!

13. 13 何 Why Not Sail Together 何不同舟渡 Xian Yuke羡鱼珂Ancient Romance483k WordsCompleted "The print edition under the same title is available to buy online" [No golden finger, no transmigration, no rebirth. A pure historical romance about family and country, with high-IQ espionage and political intrigue] [A double agent undercover + a petty thief who grows: a lone wolf plays a game of raising a rabbit, gives her fangs, then insists they run away together] In a chaotic age, she is a thief worth less than a blade of grass, willing to do whatever it takes to stay alive. She steals ten 143kReads9.7Score106.8kShelves
14. 14 大EN The Tang Dynasty's Pearl-Dispelling Record (Original Novel of the TV Adaptation Starring Tian Xiwei and Song Weilong) 大唐辟珠记（田曦薇、宋威龙主演同名影视原著） Meal Card饭卡Martial Arts810k WordsCompleted [All-New Bonus Edition] [A Screen Adaptation with the Same Title Has Been Officially Announced, Starring Tian Xiwei and Song Weilong] [Beloved Princess Reborn: Looks Like a Delicate Crybaby, Actually a Well-Rounded Warrior] ✖ [Defiant, Doomed, Devoted, Pure-Hearted Top Jianghu Big Shot] [Their Romance Is So Sweet It Makes You Cry] Princess Wanshou, blessed with the Tang emperor's favor and love, died of an illness at just seventeen. A thief secretly opened the eerie underground palace, only to d 210kReads9.7Score28.1kShelves
15. 15 谁 Can You Believe It? The Empress Wrote a Hundred Palace Rules 谁懂啊，娘娘写了一百条宫规 Strawberry Xi草莓汐Ancient Romance602k WordsCompleted [Palace Intrigue + Ancient-Era Heroine + Reborn Supporting Female Character + Transmigrated Supporting Female Character + Everyone Is Clever + Clear-Eyed Heroine] From ordinary palace candidate to empress. Everyone believes the emperor is devoted to Ning Wanyin. Only Ning Wanyin knows how treacherous and perilous the journey has been. She has survived every step through sheer caution. Lady Tang, reborn: “She killed me in my last life. This time, of course I’ll… make her my friend! Do I really th 42.1kReads9.6Score6kShelves

    Reader note

    First book: I declare this to be my favorite political intrigue novel of the year. The female lead is incredibly charming—cautious, clear-headed, and exceptionally shrewd. She never leaves her fate to luck, nor does she easily reveal her trump cards. She doesn't fight for favor, but for the ability to control her own destiny. The male lead isn't the type to blindly favor someone; he's first an emperor, then a lover, making the trust and affection he gradually bestows all the more precious. I especially love their relationship, a story of mutual testing, mutual appreciation, and mutual support. The female characters are also exceptionally well-developed; none of them are stereotypical villains. They don't just fight for victory or defeat, but for a chance to choose their own destiny in that era. Highly recommended! 😭 Second book: The female lead is my favorite type of career-driven heroine. After being reborn, she's completely clear-headed, unwavering, unforgiving, and avoids internal conflict—anyone who gets in her way is eliminated. She's ruthless, but not insane; she always knows what she's doing. What moved me most wasn't revenge, but her vision and perspective. She desires power, not to depend on anyone, but to control her own destiny; she also helps women trapped by the times, enabling them to find their own value. A journey of revenge and redemption. The third book: The female protagonist was raised as a "mother of the nation" from childhood, with etiquette, scheming, and political maneuvering ingrained in her bones. A dream completely awakens her, and from then on, she plots her way to power. Quick-witted and emotionally stable, she always knows what she wants, and even when tempted, she doesn't lose her rationality. The male protagonist is initially a seemingly innocent but actually cunning woman, but later, his true identity is revealed, revealing him to be a ruthless wolf in sheep's clothing. They constantly vie for her favor and are jealous, yet she has him completely under her control. 😂 The two are cunning and manipulative, testing, strategizing, and mutually attracted—a truly captivating tug-of-war between two strong individuals! The fourth book: The female protagonist is a modern-day time traveler, intelligent, clear-headed, and farsighted. She never places her hopes on anyone else, but instead cultivates herself step by step, improving her abilities and firmly grasping her own destiny. She's rational and shrewd, yet she never uses cunning against her own people. Cold on the outside, warm on the inside, she'll steadfastly protect those she's chosen. The male lead appears aloof, but is actually sensitive and respectful towards the female lead. From initial wariness to later unreserved trust and appreciation, he always sees her as a companion, not someone dependent on him. They support each other, grow together, and their romance unfolds gently, becoming increasingly captivating with each reading. Fifth book: This female lead is truly fascinating! Quirky and quick-witted, her psychology background is evident in her keen insight into human nature. She remains clear-headed, knowing that the harem isn't about love, but survival, so she never places her hopes on anyone, always striving to maintain control. She's capable of revenge and scheming, but always adheres to her principles. The male lead is also a competent emperor, prioritizing his kingdom over personal feelings. His gradual bestowal of favor and trust upon the female lead is all the more precious. Their mutual testing and appreciation, the political intrigue and romance, are all exceptionally compelling. The sixth book: The female lead is truly heartbreaking. Once a spirited female general, she later bears the burden of her family's blood feud and is poisoned. Despite always claiming she's not a good person, she can never bring herself to be ruthless, always retaining kindness for the innocent. She journeys to seek revenge and save lives along the way. Her greatest regret is that she only wanted to live a simple life with the person she loved, but was forced to shoulder all the responsibilities. The male lead is initially very suspicious, but later becomes increasingly steadfast in his support of her. When he learns that she has endured the poison to survive, the heartache he feels is incredibly poignant. The two redeem each other and walk side by side.

16. 16 郡 The Commandery Princess Returns to the Capital, So Why Is the Entire Marquis’s Household Dead? 郡主一回京，侯府怎么死光了？ Dancing Sunflower跳舞的向日葵Ancient Romance607k WordsCompleted [Satisfying family-intrigue story + ruthless heroine + face-slapping the villains] Qu Ling was framed by her stepmother and left the Marquis's residence for six years. When she returned to the capital, happiness wasn't waiting for her. Instead, she was driven step by step to the brink of madness. In the end, she went mad and killed everyone in the marquis's household, paying for it with her own life. After coming back to life, Qu Ling took up her knife. She no longer needed to go mad to slaughte 33.1kReads9.2Score4.4kShelves
17. 17 指 The Commander’s Plan to Win His Beloved 指挥使的掌心谋妻 A Ju, Who Loves Goji Berry Sprouts喜欢枸杞芽的阿菊Ancient Romance433k WordsCompleted [Transmigrated Special Policewoman × Cold-Faced Embroidered Uniform Guard Commander × Love After Marriage × A Battle of Wits Between Two Powerhouses] Version One: Xie Lanyin, an elite modern-day special police officer, opens her eyes to find herself transmigrated into the body of a delicate young lady from an official family who has been kidnapped by bandits. She turns the tables and disables her kidnapper with a hairpin, only to run into Zhan Shuo, the Embroidered Uniform Guard commander who ha 23.3kReads8.9Score3.3kShelves
18. 18 栖 Bough of the Phoenix Perch 栖凰枝 Lu Shiqi鹿时七Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Short drama now available. Search "A Sigh for Youth". Starring Mi Qi and Wang Kang] Also known as "I'm a Psychology PhD, and I'll Slaughter My Way Through the Palace" Palace intrigue + sweet romance + not both leads' first relationship + heroine focused on her career On her first day after transmigrating into the harem, Jiang Xinyue fell out of favor. Everyone said she was nothing but a pretty face, a vase. On her second day after transmigrating into the harem, Jiang Xinyue regained the emperor 36.8kReads9.4Score4.2kShelves
19. 19 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 7.2kReads9.4Score893Shelves
20. 20 岁 Spring's Joy, Year After Year 岁岁春欢 I Really Love Little Crabs超爱小螃蟹Ancient Romance669k WordsCompleted [The print edition of Years of Spring Joy is now available on all platforms] [Heroine and scumbag reborn + male lead transmigrates + mutual salvation + play the pig to eat the tiger] At seventeen, Shen Jiasui married Lu Yunzheng. The Shen and Lu families were both military dynasties, making them a formidable match. Two years into their marriage, Lu Yunzheng defeated the enemy kingdom and won renown across the land. But the Shen family was condemned for treason and executed to the last member. On 266.5kReads9.6Score31.1kShelves

    Reader note

    The palace scroll painting is so beautiful; everyone in it is incredibly intelligent.

21. 21 我 After I Died, I Became the Fallen God's Beloved 我死后竟成了堕神白月光 Wu Li Chouchou乌里丑丑Fantastical Romance400k WordsCompleted (Publication rights acquired) (Cool beauty x devoted madman) (One-on-one, both inexperienced, younger man, childhood friends, loyal puppy at first who later turns into a rabid dog) Everyone in the Qingxuan Sect knows that Senior Sister Yun Yuan and Junior Brother Xie Zhao grew up together and have been childhood friends. Their close relationship has always made others envious. But recently, everyone has noticed something is wrong. The pair, once so close, have somehow grown distant and haven’t b 74.3kReads8.9Score10.5kShelves

    Reader note

    Are there any similar stories? I really like this type of female lead—she's strong, resourceful, and intelligent.

22. 22 新 Newlywed Unmasked: The Top Tycoon Disguised as a Crown Princess 新婚掉马：顶级大佬伪装太子妃 Three Claws三只爪Ancient Romance393k WordsCompleted [Marriage first, love later + equally matched powerhouses + disguises + slow burn + wits and courage + mutual healing + palace intrigue] Rumor has it that the Crown Prince of Chu is blind, his internal organs are failing, and he will not live to see winter. The princess sent to marry him is said to be a weakling who does nothing but cry. On their wedding night, assassins sneak in. The princess is so frightened that she drops her teacup, but a shard happens to slice an assassin’s throat. The Crow 2kReads—Score313Shelves

    Reader note

    A marriage of convenience that blossoms into love, featuring two strong, slow-burning protagonists, a battle of wits and courage, and mutual redemption. Rumor has it that the Crown Prince of Chu is blind and his internal organs are failing, not surviving past winter; while the princess sent for a political marriage is a weak and useless woman who only knows how to cry. On their wedding night, an assassin sneaks in. The princess, terrified, smashes a teacup, a shard of which accidentally cuts the assassin's throat; the Crown Prince weakly shrinks into the bed, but a silver needle on his fingertip accidentally pierces the assassin's vital point. The entire court awaits the spectacle of this short-lived couple's downfall. Until one dark and stormy night, the world's greatest poison doctor, Yaksha, and the leader of the Assassin's Guild, Yama, fight fiercely for the divine elixir. As they tear off each other's masks, both fall silent. Chu Mochen approached, his voice low and deep: "My beloved consort, your night attire is far more beautiful than your phoenix coronet and wedding robes during the day." Yan Yunqi sneered, brandishing her poisoned needle: "Your Highness, even with your eyes still open and your temper flaring, you're still much more pleasing to the eye than during the day!" When a dramatic princess with a built-in armor that reflects physical attacks tenfold meets a powerful, sickly tycoon, the entire capital is left in tears!

23. 23 被 After Being Banished to the Cold Palace, I Cling to the Imperial Preceptor 被打入冷宫后我赖上了国师 Gentle Scholar温柔文人Ancient Romance488k WordsOngoing [Transmigrate into a book + Subverting tropes + Light political intrigue + Devoted to each other + Not a wish-fulfillment story] Jiang Dai was just a busy modern office worker. She clicked on a political intrigue novel to investigate a case, but before she could finish reading it, she opened her eyes one day and found herself as an abandoned consort in the Cold Palace who wouldn't survive three chapters... No, not even one. Where was the essential System for someone who'd transmigrated into a bo 130.9kReads9.5Score20.3kShelves

    Reader note

    This book!!! Everyone who reads it will fall madly in love with it. I don't recommend it casually, but you'll really regret it if you don't read it. The logic is flawless, the male and female leads are perfectly developed, and the political intrigue is brilliant!!! Enough said, you'll have to read it to know, it's absolutely amazing!!!

24. 24 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! 18.6kReads9.5Score3kShelves

    Reader note

    These three extraordinary books contain elements of intrigue and power struggles, as well as mutual support, self-protection, and self-improvement, ultimately leading to their success in breaking free from the constraints of others.

25. 25 穿 Transmigrated as a Treacherous Minister's Legitimate Daughter, She Plays the Part to Perfection 穿成奸臣嫡女，她本色出演 Garlic Bamboo Shoots蒜香竹笋Ancient Romance565k WordsCompleted [Transmigrate into a book + Career-focused early on + Sweet romance + One-on-one romance + Both leads are devoted to each other] [Two-faced, ruthless minister's daughter × Wild, formidable iron-faced general] The ruler of the business world transmigrates into a book overnight, becoming the daughter of the treacherous chancellor. She throws her weight around and commits every kind of evil, with the label “vicious supporting female character” practically branded onto her. She's madly pursuing the 86.5kReads9.6Score11.3kShelves

    Reader note

    Look, look, everyone go read it! Garlic Bamboo Shoots' works are all political intrigue novels, they're incredibly good! The writing is smooth and delicate, and the characters are vividly and interestingly portrayed.

26. 26 女 The Vicious Villainess in a Matriarchal World Raises Her Fish Online 女尊恶獠在线养鱼 Garlic Bamboo Shoots蒜香竹笋Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Matriarchal society + sweet romance + one-on-one + devoted to each other] [Calculating and ruthless princess × obedient, loyal guard] The capital's good-for-nothing Second Princess is beaten in the street by another woman for pursuing a man, then crashes into a stone lion. After recovering from her serious injuries, the Second Princess seems like a completely different person: kind to others, uninterested in competing, and always helping her sisters. It isn't until the day this powerful princes 14.8kReads9.5Score1.6kShelves
27. 27 开 From the Start, I Snatched the Embroidered Ball: Will Becoming a Live-in Son-in-Law Stop Her From Taking Power? 开局抢绣球，入赘影响她当权臣吗 Garlic Bamboo Shoots蒜香竹笋Ancient Romance749k WordsCompleted [Female-Supremacist World + Court Intrigue + Women Stronger Than Men + One-on-One Romance + Sweet Doting] [Refined Scoundrel, Scholarly Imperial Tutor × Lively, Proud Heiress to a Wealthy Merchant House] Before Lou Yushen became a live-in son-in-law, the standard for a good one was simple: don't covet the family's wealth, and don't take anyone's life. Lou Yushen thought, The people who came before me sure made the path easy! One day, while coaxing someone, she said, “Since the world is so lenien 17.3kReads9.4Score2.2kShelves
28. 28 穿 Reborn as a Spoiled Princess, I Breeze Through Life 穿成骄奢郡主，一路坦途无阻 Garlic Bamboo Shoots蒜香竹笋Ancient Romance568k WordsCompleted [Transmigration + Alternate World + Women Stronger Than Men + One-on-One Romance + Sweet Romance] [Arrogant, Flashy, Spoiled Commandery Princess × Attentive, Eager-to-Please Personal Guard] Everyone in the capital of Great Su knows that there is a commandery princess who is as precious as royalty. The emperor indulges her, the empress dotes on her, and a ruthless, powerful rebel princess of a mother keeps order in her household. The moment Qin Qirui opened her eyes... The good news: she had tran 27.5kReads9.2Score5.2kShelves
29. 29 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 87.9kReads9.3Score11.3kShelves

    Reader note

    I highly recommend this book. The author is very intelligent, the writing is skillful, the plot is good, and the female lead doesn't suffer at all.

30. 30 南 South Branches Toward Dusk, The Regent Has Been Plotting This for Ages 南枝向晚，摄政王他蓄谋已久 Doudou from Zhongyue Province中月省的逗逗Ancient Romance726k WordsCompleted [Just received a rating] Complete ◎ [Revenge after being reborn + mastery of medicine and poison + powerful leads who cherish each other + everyone’s a schemer + palace intrigue and political machinations] Important: No stupid villains. Everyone has eight hundred tricks up their sleeve, and the battle of wits is at its peak! In her previous life, Shen Nanzhi, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo’s family, was blind to the truth. She used a forbidden technique to save a scumbag man, dr 22.4kReads8.8Score2.6kShelves

    Reader note

    [Completed, Rebirth and Revenge + Healing and Poisoning Mastery + Two Strong Individuals Pampered by Each Other + Everyone's Clever and cunning + Palace Intrigue and Power Struggle] Highlight: No villains with low intelligence; everyone is incredibly cunning, a battle of wits at its peak! In her past life, Shen Nanzhi, the legitimate daughter of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion, went blind and used forbidden techniques to drain her life force to save her scumbag husband. In return, she found him secretly having an affair with her scheming cousin, leading to the tragic deaths of her entire loyal family! Reborn, she holds silver needles, returning to the day she used poison to prolong her husband's life. Facing his expectant gaze and her cousin's feigned tears, Shen Nanzhi coldly withdrew her needles: "I won't cure the poison. Since my cousin is so deeply in love, why don't you bleed her and cut her flesh?" In this life, she tears off the disguise, possessing unparalleled healing and poisoning skills, able to bring the dead back to life and heal the wounded! Xiao Duo, the Regent of Dayuan, a powerful and influential ruler, suffers greatly from a rare poison. Shen Nanzhi tossed down the antidote, her voice cold and arrogant: "I will extend Your Highness's life. Lend me your blade to slaughter all the demons and monsters, how about it?" The world believed the Duke's daughter was merely a delicate canary in the palm of a living Yama. Only when powerful officials took center stage, and deadly schemes unfolded one after another, did everyone realize with horror—the seemingly fragile Shen Nanzhi was actually a master strategist, a female Zhuge Liang who held the reins of power and calculated every move! She and he entrusted their lives to each other, slaying gods and demons alike, manipulating the entire court with ease! When the bloody path was cleaved through, the world was at peace. The ruthless regent, who struck fear into the hearts of all under heaven, shed his menacing aura and held her tightly in his arms, his voice low and hoarse with madness: "Zhizhi, the realm is settled. This vast and beautiful land is my dowry; when will you finally give me a title?!" —A ruthless and decisive medical and poison queen × A crazed regent who bows down to her; together, they join forces to slaughter all demons and monsters!

31. 31 和 Marriage Alliance Game: Prince Zhao Breaks Out of the Script 和亲游戏：昭王他跳出剧本了 Lu Yue Qi Shi鹿约七时Ancient Romance126k WordsOngoing Slow-burn historical romance | Two powerful leads | Light System elements | Everyday life Drawn into a historical political-marriage game scenario, player Xia Lingluo only wants to survive to the end, clear the level safely, and get out. According to the game's setting, Prince Zhao, Jiang Xuzhao, is a thoroughly unfeeling NPC. He has no interest in romance and cares only about power, destined to spend his whole life embroiled in court politics. But no one knows that this scenario has long bee 3Reads—Score—Shelves

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    I highly recommend this historical romance novel about political intrigue and transmigration: *The Game of Marriage: King Zhao Has Stepped Out of the Script*, currently being serialized with 120,000 words! Xia Lingluo, the female lead, transmigrates into a script to impersonate a princess in a marriage alliance. She's a cheerful and intelligent character. The male lead, King Zhao (Jiang Xuzhao), was originally intended to be a ruthless NPC, but the script deviates, and his personality changes. Initially, the two feign an alliance, using each other's power to navigate the treacherous court. Both are meticulous and shrewd, testing and trusting each other, their strength evenly matched. In the end, King Zhao, who was supposed to adhere to the script, breaks free of his preconceived notions, and love slowly overshadows his scheming, leading him to fall for the female lead.

32. 32 太 The Crown Prince Is a Treasure Trove, but She Flirts and Runs 太子浑身是宝，但她撩完就跑 Nine Strokes, Then a Horizontal Line九笔横才Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Clever revenge + ensemble court drama + male lead fakes his death and reveals his identity, then goes mad + heroine is his one true love] [Power couple comedy | Strategic mind games | All the right ingredients | Fictional setting] Axiang, a huntress, bought herself a live-in husband. He was handsome, with a fine figure and a noble, radiant air, like an immortal crane descended from the heavens, or a jade-faced gentleman from a storybook. But he had no idea how to show affection. When she offer 1.5kReads9.2Score178Shelves

    Reader note

    Stop watching those clichéd historical romance novels! This one is the pinnacle of political intrigue, with a brainy revenge plot, a crazy male lead, and a vibrant ensemble cast. Every aspect is exactly what I like, and I want to watch it again after finishing it!

33. 33 双 Bound Together Across Two Lifetimes, We’ll Grow Old Together 双世缱绻，与君共白头 Dreamer Dadao爱做梦的大道Ancient Romance727k WordsCompleted [Two powerful leads who rise to greatness | Complete souls | Extreme contrast | Love across two lifetimes | Sweet romance and court intrigue] A modern married couple are reborn as babies in the Tianqi Dynasty. He becomes an iron-fisted Crown Prince, commands the Xuanhuo Army, and plots to industrialize the realm. She becomes a queen of commerce, controls trade routes along three borders, and holds the lifeblood of the people in her hands! Toward their enemies, he presides over the execution of t 5.4kReads8.1Score637Shelves

    Reader note

    This story features a well-rounded blend of romance, intrigue, and modern-day relationships. The protagonist is a UI designer with a complex political landscape (implementing new policies and navigating court intrigue), nuanced emotions (daily interactions and tender moments), and practical modern skills (double-entry bookkeeping and design applications). It offers a balanced and comprehensive narrative encompassing sweet romance, political intrigue, powerful duo leadership, a strong connection to the past, a deeply affectionate relationship, and a profound entanglement of romance and political politics.

34. 34 假 The Fake Princess Stumbles into the Imperial Family, Leaving the Entire Dynasty Enchanted 假皇女误闯天家，全皇朝惊艳沦陷 Three Lives, Three Three叁生三三Ancient Romance986k WordsOngoing [Political Intrigue and a Powerful Heroine]+ [The Perfect Imposture]+ [An Ensemble of Young Characters]+ [A Sage’s Selfish Desires] Ten years ago, foreign rebels stormed into Sheng’an. The empress sacrificed herself for her country and named Princess Wei Baoning crown princess, heir to the throne. That same year, lightning struck the imperial mausoleum, and the young princess was buried in a sea of flames. No body was ever found. The following month, a new emperor ascended the throne. Over the n 48.2kReads9.4Score5.2kShelves

    Reader note

    1. The female lead is reborn, and the male lead is a time traveler; both are highly intelligent. The romance between the male and female leads is described very delicately. Mind-bending warning! 2. Although still being updated, it's incredibly good and very thought-provoking, featuring a saintly selfishness setting. I'm devouring it! It's mainly about the career aspect; if you enjoy political intrigue, don't miss it. This author's books are all excellent. 3. This one also falls into the political intrigue category. Zhi'er's books are consistently high quality. The romance between the male and female leads isn't extensively described, but it's still very engaging.

35. 35 东 Schemes of the Eastern Palace: Taking You into My Embrace 东宫谋：揽卿入怀 You Rong 93有容93Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted [A stubborn, scheming Crown Prince + a cool-headed, clever noblewoman] Lin Qingyi made the wrong choice about two men in her life. One was Lu Zheng, her fiancé of five years. The other was Crown Prince Shen Huaian, who asked for her hand by imperial decree after she broke off her engagement. Three years ago, on the day she and Lu Zheng were to marry, he received an imperial order to go to war. As they parted, he swore, “I will never let you down.” Three years later, she was about to marry Lu Zhe 6.6kReads6.6Score969Shelves

    Reader note

    There's no time travel or reincarnation, no cheat codes, just a traditional ancient Chinese romance. Not only are the male and female leads intelligent and emotionally intelligent, but the supporting characters also have their own shining qualities. Whether it's the power struggles in the court or the storms of public opinion, it's all incredibly satisfying!

36. 36 卿 Qingqing, May You Be at Peace 卿卿其安 Gu Mingyu顾铭钰Ancient Romance245k WordsOngoing Everyone in the capital knew that the Xie family's legitimate daughter, Xie Zhaoyue, was ruthless. She pushed her half-sister into a pond with her own hands and watched coldly as she sank. Later, she went far away to Wu Commandery. After years of planning, she finally married into the Eastern Palace, just as she had hoped. She thought the game was already won. But what awaited her was the execution of the entire Xie family. Her mother left her only one message: "As long as you are here, the Xie 63Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A story featuring two strong female leads, political intrigue, and a mother-daughter scheming relationship. No rebirth or cheat codes. [I highly recommend it!] Those who prefer female leads focused on their careers should check this out. The female lead isn't naturally strong; she forced herself to be calm and calculating after experiencing the loss of her family. The romance and political intrigue are intertwined, and the male lead is equally shrewd. It's a story of two strong female leads pulling each other along, but the romance won't overshadow the main plot.

37. 37 宠 He Spoiled His Concubine and Neglected His Wife. Reborn, I Broke Off My Engagement to the Scumbag and Married the Prince 宠妾灭妻，重生我退婚渣男嫁王爷 Zhi Zhi之知Ancient Romance640k WordsCompleted The physical book is available on all major platforms. Formerly titled Riding the Phoenix. [Reborn + Powerful Female Lead and Male Lead + Nation and World + Political Schemes] Before the age of seventeen, Shen Yu was the legitimate daughter of a military family who could wield a blade and charge into battle. After seventeen, she became the frail wife of Jiang Manor's Vice Minister Jiang. Her father and brothers died in battle, and the entire Shen family was honored for their loyalty. Bearing 90.8kReads9.5Score12.4kShelves
38. 38 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 262.1kReads9.7Score30.8kShelves

    Reader note

    With various forces eyeing her covetously, watch how she uses her wisdom as a weapon, proceeding step by step, to achieve a comeback in a game of power and intrigue.

39. 39 穿 Transmigrated to a Famine Year, the Fake Heiress Fights Her Way Back 穿荒年，假千金她杀回来了 Dream Eater喰梦者Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted Historical transmigration | Strong heroine, political intrigue | Fleeing famine and farming “Good news: I transmigrated into the body of a rich young lady. Bad news: I opened my eyes just as bandits were planning to make me their emergency rations!” The moment Song Yu opened her eyes, she found herself in the body of the Shen family's fake heiress in the Great Ye, whose secret identity had been exposed. The original owner had behaved atrociously, so her parents sent her back to the countryside t 13.8kReads8.9Score1.5kShelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist transmigrates from the post-apocalyptic world to a chaotic ancient era, seeking only peace and stability. She is brave and resourceful, but not a saint. The male protagonist appears a little later in the story. The male and female protagonists are a powerful duo, and the pacing is incredibly fast.

40. 40 某 One Day, I Became the Fourth Miss of the Xiao Family 某天成为肖家四小姐 Ai Zhu Ai Bao艾珠艾宝Ancient Romance867k WordsOngoing Born wicked + play the pig to eat the tiger + growing through inner-household battles + aristocratic historical romance + spoiled and arrogant + raising Song Pengye is the daughter of Duanzhou's top courtesan and one of Fifth Master Xiao's illegitimate children. When she was six, her mother died of illness. After she swallowed the blood cup that proved she carried the Xiao family bloodline, Xiao Lin, the head of the Xiao clan, brought her back to be raised by the family. Her background makes 51.9kReads9.0Score7.8kShelves

    Reader note

    [Sparrow's Delight] 👍

41. 41 写 Write Me Off as a Flop 写我作败笔 Come, It's Just Empty Wordsovo来是空言ovoAncient Romance281k WordsCompleted [The Capital’s Infamous, Unhinged Marquis’s Orphan × An Older, Tender-Hearted, Loyal General] [Historical Court Intrigue + Strong Female Lead + Ensemble Cast] The Crown Prince fears her, rebels want to win her over, and even the emperor is moved to tears by a few words from her. Yet one preachy border garrison commander appears in the capital on a rainy night and holds a knife to her throat. The orphaned daughter of a noble house turns the capital upside down, determined to find out one thing: W 4Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    No kidding about this book! Both the male and female leads are strong, but the female lead is clearly superior! The author is a newcomer and hasn't had much exposure yet, but! The writing is exceptionally good. The female lead is consistently intelligent, calm, and decisive. A famously eccentric orphaned noblewoman x a younger, easily moved general—it's incredibly captivating! The romance is without any angst, and the power struggles are well-written. There are no purely evil characters; the overthrow of the dynasty is merely a consequence of greed... The content is very profound; I don't understand why it's not more popular.

42. 42 宁 Ning Jinge 宁烬歌 Calm as Ever冷静如斯Ancient Romance697k WordsOngoing [Female commander × top-tier spy and assassin | Two equally matched leads | Court intrigue and the martial world | Standing together in troubled times | Devoted 1v1 romance] The sweeping scale of a male-oriented story, with the emotional depth of a female-oriented one. Fast-paced and tightly plotted, with no filler or dragging. The political intrigue is logical, and long-laid clues are brought back into play. A serious world with lighthearted, hilarious everyday moments, and an incredibly sweet 379Reads8.5Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    The synopsis claimed it was a political intrigue masterpiece on par with the Langya List, so I clicked to see how unconventional the author was 😂 But I was proven wrong… it really is something special! Chapters 85-109 are the pinnacle of political intrigue.

43. 43 帝 The Imperial Throne 帝业 Watching Three Thousand Worlds of Vanity from Afar淡看浮华三千Ancient Romance2.4M WordsCompleted Fish leap from the depths, and phoenixes sing on Mount Qi. The wager is not for fame in a golden age, but for the chance to stay alive. Grudges fade and hatred dissolves, yet this life still holds one regret: I never got to walk hand in hand with him in the best years of my youth. 140Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The female protagonist, Yu Feichi, is a wanderer (transmigrated). She has no greed or desire for this world, her only wish is to find a quiet place with Nan Jiu and live a peaceful life. However, as a wanderer living in the Wuwei Academy, all of this is destined to be a pipe dream. From birth, she has been controlled by this world until she finally vanishes into nothingness. She is one of the Seven Masters of Wuwei, the most prized student of the Ghost Master, a woman whom the entire world dares not look down upon, and the creator of this prosperous era! Yu Feichi, if you were given another chance, would you rather be a wanderer or a carefree little girl in a remote town? The male protagonist, Shi Fengqi, is the true crown prince of the Sui Dynasty. He has a tragic and handsome story. From a young age, he was strictly required by those around him to be as powerful as his brother. His brother was skilled with a gun, so he was required to learn how to use a gun. The male protagonist even believed from childhood that his purpose was to avenge his brother. However, he never forgot his duty and traveled among the six kingdoms. At the age of 13, he turned the Southern Yan kingdom upside down. At the age of 14, he helped an incompetent prince ascend the throne. At the age of 15, he was hunted down by the people of an entire kingdom and was rescued by the Wuwei Academy. There, he met the female protagonist, and from then on, the world's turmoil officially began. Watch how they scheme for the world together and write their own glorious chapter in this chaotic world. But... Shi Fengqi, would you rather be the emperor who holds all the power in the world but has no one by his side, or would you rather be the son of a wealthy merchant and live in seclusion with the female protagonist? The male and female leads are both absolutely strong; neither is stronger than the other. While there is some angst, it's all self-inflicted pain due to their national and personal vendettas preventing them from being together. Their relationship is unbreakable. It's genuinely sweet, and genuinely heart-wrenching. Having read books for eight years (not on Tomato Bookstore), I've never seen a better author. The supporting characters are also a pleasant surprise. Su Yu Hua is cold and ruthless; she's willing to sacrifice countless lives to unify the world, including herself, Nan Jiu, Chi Gui… These supporting characters all have their own principles and their own paths to follow. The male and female leads aren't simply seen as black and white; their actions are all for their country and for what they believe in. It's truly a fantastic read, highly recommended!

44. 44 盛 Beloved Above All in a Golden Age, With the Land as Dowry 盛世独宠，山河为聘 Wilderness Siren荒野塞壬Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Male emperor and female monarch, political intrigue, devoted to each other, sweet romance, both leads are natives of a traditional historical setting] One was an emperor’s chosen star who brimmed with murderous rage; the other was a brilliant woman destined for a tragic fate. Yun Zhenzhen chose Chu Yu to protect her family and save her own life. To her, it was nothing more than a mutually willing bargain. But the bold, unrestrained man held her close and shielded her from every open attack and 1.1kReads9.1Score117Shelves

    Reader note

    Male and female emperors (equally matched, conspiring to rule the world together), seeking similar meal replacements.

45. 45 步 Splendor at Every Turn, Spring at Every Step 步步惊华步步春 Twenty-Four Flower Mornings廿四花朝Ancient Romance838k WordsOngoing The rating has just come out, so don't pay it any mind... [Pure historical romance] [Plot-driven] [Political intrigue] [Two equally matched leads] [One-on-one romance] [Everyone is clever] [Powerful prince who dominates the court vs. exceptionally intelligent illegitimate daughter] Ruan Zhenzhen is the illegitimate daughter of the Pingyang Marquis's residence. Born of a courtesan's bloodline and raised in a humble country home, she is suddenly forced into the treacherous world of the capital's n 8.3kReads8.6Score828Shelves

    Reader note

    A historical romance novel featuring political intrigue, a clever female lead, and a strong male lead – a powerful duo.

46. 46 掌 The Darling in the Palm 掌上娇娇 Zhi Yun支云Ancient Romance907k WordsCompleted [Print edition preorder opens July 17] [Film and TV rights sold] [Reader's guide: sweet romance, devoted couple, feel-good wish fulfillment, with clever schemes and political intrigue, many clues and details, and a large cast of well-developed characters. The heroine never gets the short end of the stick; anything that doesn't make sense will be explained later] Prince Xuan, He Junting. In the novel Devoted to the Imperial Consort, the author wrote of how he slaughtered the entire Northern Di co 87kReads9.5Score9.8kShelves
47. 47 不 Aren't We Mortal Enemies? Why Does Lord Ji Love Me So Much? 不是死敌吗？季大人怎么这么爱 Yi Er一尔Ancient Romance791k WordsCompleted [Mad, power-hungry minister X black-lotus noblewoman, two powerful and equally unhinged leads] Jiang Zhimiao was born with a rebellious streak. Clever and perceptive, she never let an offense go unanswered and cut off every way back, all so she could leave home and toy with the emperor, until she ran into one particularly troublesome bastard. Ji Suian was born to wealth and privilege. Brilliant to the point of seeming demonic, he had a prominent family and a smooth career in government, as if he 8kReads8.8Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    The female lead is a sickly strategist who assists the princess in ascending the throne, maintaining a balance of power with the male lead, the Imperial Guard, and the second male lead, the Grand Secretary. It's a very good watch.

48. 48 零 Fallen Golden Bough 零落金枝 A Cat's Catnip小猫的猫薄荷Ancient Romance237k WordsOngoing Ling Xiao was born fatherless and confined to the stables. With a cold-blooded knack for taming beasts, he was chosen on a whim by Jin Zhi to be her personal stable hand. A brand burned into his skin cemented their unequal status, but it couldn't stop their love from burning bright. But fate had other plans. The grudges of their fathers and the hatred between their classes stood between them. What will they choose...? 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Ancient Chinese romance, with delicate writing and a captivating plot.

49. 49 皇 The Game of Imperial Power, the Scroll of the Realm 皇权弈，山河卷 All the Names I Could Think Of Were Taken想起的名字都被起完了Ancient Romance408k WordsCompleted Everyone said Su Wanli, the legitimate daughter of the Duke's estate, was a frail beauty who could barely walk without gasping for breath and had little time left to live. But no one knew that she was also the master of Tingfeng Tower, the greatest intelligence network in the martial world, as well as a royal orphan of the previous dynasty, pulling the strings from within a glittering world. At a palace banquet, the Crown Prince and the aristocratic clans joined forces to pressure her into marri 401Reads—Score116Shelves

    Reader note

    A powerful alliance: the sickly eldest daughter is actually the head of a martial arts intelligence network. Her identity as a descendant of the previous dynasty hides too many secrets. She forms an alliance with the idle seventh prince and carefully navigates the power struggles between the court and the powerful families. The political intrigue is incredibly captivating.

50. 50 乱 After Fleeing the Chaotic Era, I Became the Founding Empress 乱世逃亡后，我成了开国女帝 Nan Wanxu南婉徐Ancient Romance4.1M WordsCompleted [Publication rights signed] [Strong heroine + political intrigue + turbulent times + power struggles + ensemble cast] She’s fleeing from the start, a female warlord in a chaotic age. Lin Zhihuang, originally named Lin Zhihuan, transmigrates as a county magistrate’s daughter, only to find tens of thousands of refugees attacking the city from the start! While others transmigrate into palace or household intrigue, she transmigrates straight into a chaotic age and a desperate flight from famine. The 98.2kReads9.4Score13.6kShelves

    Reader note

    Absolutely captivating! A woman who, step by step, gathers talented generals from across the land, rising from the daughter of a lowly county magistrate to a powerful regional ruler.

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