Are There Any Good Historical Novels Set in Ancient China, with Excellent Writing and No Made-Up History? 有没有历史古代题材的小说？文笔好，不胡编乱造的

1. 201 为 To Avoid Planting Rice, I Work Hard to Pass the Imperial Exams 为了不插秧，努力考科举 Three Layers of Belly Fat三层肚腩Historical1.0M WordsCompleted [The short drama adaptation is now streaming] A modern SSS-rank researcher dies suddenly and transmigrates to the Great Xing Dynasty. His health is so poor that he's not allowed to pick rice in the fields until he's six. Sunstruck and light-headed, Li Jing decides that farming with this body is a risky business, so he immediately resolves to study for the imperial examinations. That's what he's good at; the transplanting can be left to the professionals! The following year, now named Li Yiqing, 23kReads9.3Score2.3kShelves

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   1. Li Jing looked at his parents, somewhat moved. In modern times, he was an orphan, and the person who treated him best was his aunt, the dean. However, since joining the "National Project," he hadn't had time to go back. Being an SSS-level researcher didn't come easily, and geniuses don't achieve results without dedicated study. It takes countless hours to validate a small project and gradually develop it into a large one. 2. Don't say "each generation has its own literature," or "each generation has its own strengths." The standards for judging literature change with time. Li Bai's "Bring in the Wine" might have been forgotten in the pre-Qin period, and Su Shi's "Remembering the Red Cliff" might have been considered vulgar and unrefined if written centuries earlier. Now, without even knowing which timeline we're in, what's the point of talking about copying poems and novels? 3. Zhaixing Garden. A cold and desolate courtyard in the Great Yan Imperial Palace. Its desolation stems from its owner, Xiao Wanping, the eighth prince of Great Yan. Waking up in bed, Xiao Wanping felt aches all over his body, as if his bones were about to fall apart. Where was he? Looking around, he saw antique buildings, whispering eunuchs... Memories flooded back. The Eighth Prince of the Great Yan Kingdom, an idiot? I've transmigrated? Transmigrated into the body of an idiot! Damn it.

2. 202 这 This Prince Has Gone Mad. Why Would You Provoke Him? 这皇子都疯了，你惹他干嘛？ Before the Wind Rises风未起Historical4.0M WordsCompleted [No System + High-Stakes Scheming + Laying Low to Build Strength + Logical Plot + Brains and Brawn + Suspense + Ancient Espionage] His mother consort dies suddenly of an illness. His older brother dies mysteriously in battle. All his backers are gone!! His father distrusts him, and his other brothers all want him dead! Not a single court official is on his side? In that case, he has no choice but to carve out a path to survival from between the cracks! After transmigrating to another world, he b 62.3kReads8.8Score5.1kShelves
3. 203 枌 The Grass and Trees of Fengyu Grow Tall 枌榆草木长 Ni Ergou倪二狗Historical2.6M WordsCompleted [Signed for print publication: ensemble cast + rival nations vying for supremacy + political intrigue and strategy + patriotism and national pride + original poetry + memorable supporting characters] [This is a fictional setting, and some historical references should not be taken as fact. This is not a mindless wish-fulfillment story. The plot is carefully developed, the logic is rigorous, and the cast and scope are large. There is no System or golden finger. There are no brainless villains or c 25.1kReads8.9Score1.7kShelves
4. 204 娘 My Wife Is Already the Richest, So Why Take the Top Scholar Exam? 娘子都首富了，还要考状元？ My Fans Are So Handsome我的粉丝超帅的Historical2.5M WordsOngoing [Whose husband is this? Whoever grabs him gets to keep him!] Xu Ye accidentally transmigrates while rescuing someone from drowning. When he reaches shore, he realizes he's holding the daughter of the richest man in the realm. He thinks he's landed himself a wealthy wife and can lie flat, living off her money, but then he sees his fiancée being schemed against... “Copy books to pay off your debts? Why not copy Battle Through the Heavens!” “The teahouse is empty? Let's get on the BBS!” The imp 61.4kReads8.2Score7.1kShelves

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   Super funny and entertaining

5. 205 乱 The Chaotic Jin Dynasty: I'm Just a Spoiled Brat, So Why Do You Think I Can Become Emperor? 乱晋：我只是纨绔，你说我能称帝 Sighing at the Worries of Mortal Life浮生叹烦忧Historical153k WordsOngoing The Eight Princes plunged the Jin dynasty into chaos. Barbarian armies filled the land, and the catastrophe of the Five Barbarians ravaged the Central Plains. The great clans sang and feasted night after night, while commoners were reduced to eating their own children. The Great Jin dynasty teetered on the brink of collapse. Most scions of noble families were idle, pampered wastrels, destined to perish alongside their dynasty. But when a modern soul transmigrates into the body of an aristocrat, —Reads—Score—Shelves

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   It's good, everyone should check it out.

6. 206 红 Dream of the Red Chamber: A Chancellor of Unmatched Grace 红楼：风华首辅 Painted Bridge by the Willow Smoke烟柳画桥Historical1.0M WordsCompleted [No System + intellectual battles + political intrigue + everyday life] Every line is stained with bitter tears, every page filled with absurdity. You might think this is merely a tale of infatuated, indulged young men and women behind closed doors, but who could know that the rise and fall of the world are all intertwined? Are the fortunes of the four great families destined to change? Is the dynasty beset by internal and external threats destined to fall? Must the path to a noble title and hig 44.1kReads9.2Score3.6kShelves

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   Lin Ruhai and Jia Min were a harmonious couple, so Daiyu not only had loving parents, but was also about to welcome a younger brother. However, her brother Qiao An only wanted to be Daiyu's childhood sweetheart.

7. 207 我 My Brother-in-Law Is the Crown Prince, So What's Wrong with Me Being a Spendthrift? 我姐夫是太子，我纨绔点怎么了？ Misty Rain’烟雨’Historical2.2M WordsCompleted [Farming] + [lighthearted] + [alternate setting] + [no System] + [distinctive characters] Xu Xian, a young master who transmigrates to the state of Chu, is a genuine good-for-nothing rich kid. He gets the young masters of the Duke's estate to skip school, and somehow comes away from the entertainment house with more money than he went in with. He kicks and punches powerful court officials, and goes sword to sword with the capital's nobility. He does business on a grand scale despite the laws res 55kReads8.7Score3.9kShelves
8. 208 清 A Qing Dynasty Rebirth: The Big Shot Helps Me Win Over Zhen 清穿复仇，大佬助我谋禛心 Jia Xiaoqi嘉小麒Ancient Romance672k WordsCompleted [Transmigration + historical setting + sweet romance + court intrigue + a little household and harem drama + brotherhood] (Completed) I crossed three hundred years of time just to meet you, while you endured three hundred lonely years, waiting in vain for my return... Jianing wakes up one morning to find that she has transmigrated, and is forced to inherit the tragic memories of the original owner's final moments. Bullied and abused! Her belly cut open to save someone else's unborn child! The or 701Reads—Score—Shelves

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   The historical setting is excellent! I've been staying up late to catch up on the latest chapters! Both the male and female leads are intelligent, and aside from the time-travel aspect, it's perfectly readable as a historical novel. The author hasn't rewritten history.

9. 209 魂 Reborn in Li Bai's Body? From the Start at Mawei Post Station, I Save Yang Yuhuan 魂穿李白？开局马嵬驿，我救玉环 Wanderer of Nanke南柯行者Historical1.2M WordsCompleted One of Tomato's rare gems. The An Lushan Rebellion, an exiled immortal and a noble consort, intrigue amid chaos, and fervent devotion to the nation. A man remains a boy until the day he dies. As he makes his way through life, apart from Yang Yuhuan, his unattainable first love, which of the colorful women of the Tang dynasty became his cinnabar-marked love? And who remained the one he could never let go? Most importantly, whether heroes or villains, everyone is sharp-witted. This story is entire 142Reads—Score—Shelves

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   A rare gem among Tomato's historical novels. The An Lushan Rebellion, the banished imperial concubine. Power struggles amidst chaos, patriotic fervor. Along the way, besides Yang Guifei, their unwavering love, who else became their cherished memory? Who was the source of his deepest regret? These vibrant and extraordinary women of the Tang Dynasty collectively adorned his and Yang Guifei's world. Crucially, whether righteous or villainous, all are intelligent. This alone surpasses 99.9% of Tomato's historical fiction. No unnecessary systems—highly recommended!

10. 210 帝 The Empire's First Prince Consort 帝国第一驸马 Heavenly Fragrant Eyes天香瞳Historical4.4M WordsCompleted [New book release: The Rebellious Son Is Invincible, the final installment of the Empire Trilogy] Guan Ning transmigrates, hoping to live a carefree life of wine, women, and luxury as a young prince. Instead, he becomes a prince consort whose engagement has been broken off. Rumor has it that no dynasty can last more than 300 years. The Great Kang Dynasty is at that very threshold: a golden age is in turmoil, loyal ministers are being persecuted, and an age of chaos is about to begin. He will top 113.8kReads9.1Score10.6kShelves
11. 211 满 The Secret History of Manchuria, Part One 满洲秘史（上部） Ma Jinping马金萍Historical263k WordsCompleted [Bandits + Northeast China + Local life + War + Japanese spies + Manchukuo + Republican era + Romance] A woman's turbulent journey through a chaotic age, a blood-soaked epic of Northeast China. From bandit chieftain's wife to a secret pawn of the Japanese, she witnesses every secret behind Manchuria's birth, caught between love and hate, home and country… The story takes place in Northeast China in the early twentieth century, spanning the period from the Russo-Japanese War to the establishment 15.7kReads9.5Score1.7kShelves

    Reader note

    Recommendations for historical novels!

12. 212 国 Pillars of the Nation: A Century of Chinese Business Rivalries, Parts One and Two 国之重器：百年中国商战传奇（上下部） Li Tiejun李铁君Historical699k WordsCompleted [Grand historical saga + Self-Strengthening Movement + coastal and frontier defense + Sino-French War + China Merchants' Steam Navigation Company] The late Qing business world is rocked by turbulent waves, and a tycoon of his generation turns the tide! See how pioneers of industry build an economic Great Wall in the face of despair! In the final years of the Qing dynasty, Western powers force the Qing government to open treaty ports, while Western steamships monopolize China's shipping. Chinese 201Reads9.6Score—Shelves
13. 213 拔 Batu the Tsar: The Pinnacle of Power in the Thirteenth Century 拔都沙皇：十三世纪的权利之巅 Fanchen繁宸Historical569k WordsOngoing The most powerful person in history was not Qin Shi Huang or Emperor Wu of Han, nor Tang Taizong or Song Taizu, nor Genghis Khan, Temujin, or Alexander the Great. It was not even Queen Victoria, who built the British Empire on which the sun never set. It was Batu, the Saiyin Khan, who led the western campaign with his eldest son, marched from the Mongolian steppe to the gates of Vienna, and established the Golden Horde. As a young man, Batu joined his father Jochi on campaigns across the lands, 417Reads—Score121Shelves

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    The most powerful person in history was not Qin Shi Huang or Emperor Wu of Han, nor Emperor Taizong of Tang or Emperor Taizu of Song, nor Genghis Khan or Alexander the Great, nor even Queen Victoria who founded the British Empire. It was Batu Khan, who led his eldest son on a westward expedition from the Mongolian steppes to the gates of Vienna, establishing the Golden Horde. The young Batu accompanied his father Jochi on his campaigns, achieving remarkable feats that fueled Jochi's growing claim to the Mongol Khanate. However, due to doubts about Jochi's lineage, he was consistently excluded from the succession, constantly subjected to rumors and gossip, and ultimately died in despair. Batu inherited Jochi's fiefdom and, with his exceptional talent, became the commander of his eldest son's westward expedition, leading 150,000 cavalry from the Mongolian steppes all the way to the gates of Vienna. He conquered the Rus' principalities, defeated Hungary, blitzed Poland, pushed past Moscow, reached the Danube, and even defeated a 400,000-strong European coalition army with only 40,000 cavalry, conquering more than twenty countries in seven years. After the death of Ögedei Khan, the princes who had campaigned westward returned east to vie for the throne. Batu Khan, leveraging the momentum of his western campaigns, established the vast Golden Horde, known to Europeans as Sain Khan and revered by Russians as "Tsar Batu." Later, tensions escalated between Batu and the Mongol Great Khan Güyük. In a critical moment, Güyük died suddenly, and Batu swiftly installed Möngke Khan as Khan, becoming the de facto ruler of the Mongol Empire. Coupled with his powerful position as Khan of the Golden Horde, his power was unprecedented, making him one of the most dazzling figures at the pinnacle of power in the 13th century.

14. 214 从 Starting with Ying Zheng: Emperors of Every Dynasty Arrive One After Another 从嬴政开始：历代君王陆续降临 A Bowl of Hot Dry Noodles来碗热干面Historical1.0M WordsCompleted [Lighthearted + humorous + adventure] History buffs, enter at your own risk After Qin Shi Huang died, he was transported to a walled city. One day inside equaled one year in the outside world. Each time the city gates opened, the setting was different, bringing all kinds of fantastical adventures. On the third day, Hu Hai arrived. “Father, you have to get justice for me!” Twelve days later, Liu Bang arrived. “Brother Zheng, don't tell me you still don't know your Qin has fallen!” Wang Mang arriv 128.5kReads9.6Score20kShelves

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    This is the number one political intrigue novel!! "Playing the Fool to Conquer the World" features Xiao Wanping as a seemingly foolish character, secretly developing his power and eliminating his rivals! ◎ He must develop stealthily until a million-strong army besieges the capital! No substitutes online, political intrigue + comedy, incredibly satisfying! #PoliticalIntrigue #Comedy #PlayingTheFool #ConqueringTheWorld

15. 215 魂 Soul Transmigration into Yang Zhi: Losing the Birthday Presents from the Start 魂穿杨志，开局失陷生辰纲 Meditating Tiger打坐的老虎Historical220k WordsOngoing I take over Yang Zhi’s body. When I open my eyes, the sky is falling. On Yellow Mud Ridge, there’s nothing but the unconscious soldiers and the old steward. The hundred thousand strings of birthday tribute meant for Liang Zhongshu have vanished without a trace! If things follow the original story, I’m the perfect scapegoat. Just as I’m at a loss, the “Uphold Heaven’s Justice” System comes online. Killing villains earns me points, and completing designated missions could even expand my influ 264Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This book is amazing! The writing is superb, the plot is incredibly exciting yet logical. The protagonist is cunning and decisive, and the villains are all ruthless characters. It's perfect for seasoned readers.

16. 216 华 The Chinese Labor Corps: A Coppersmith’s First World War 华工军团：一名铜匠的第一次世界大战 Li Tiejun李铁君Historical527k WordsCompleted [Cross-border romance + an underdog's rise + a hero of World War I + rural life + bandits] From a wedding hall in Shandong to the trenches of Europe, an epic expedition by an ordinary man! On the day of his wedding, Shandong coppersmith Li Zhongfu discovers that soldiers and bandits have joined forces to massacre Wuji Town, where his fiancée Su Huizhen lives. At the brink of life and death, Li Zhongfu saves the townspeople, but Su Huizhen disappears. After accidentally uncovering the secret behi 531Reads9.5Score—Shelves
17. 217 开 From the Start, I Revealed the Achievements of Ancient Emperors and Stunned the Emperors 开局曝光古人皇功业，惊呆皇帝们 Trainee001练习生001Historical4.3M WordsOngoing [Historical retrospectives] + [a commoner's view of history] + [spoilers in the comments] + [emperors goofing around] + [A complete run-through of Chinese history from the Yan and Huang emperors, starting with the Shang] Chen Yong was hired to make a series of historical retrospectives. He planned to start with the Shang dynasty. To set his videos apart from the many others, he decided to follow standard historical methodology. Source priority: archaeological artifacts > official histories > 76kReads9.0Score5.3kShelves
18. 218 大 Yi Shuo, the Han Dynasty’s Female Physician, and Huo Qubing, the Champion Marquis 大汉女国医义妁与冠军侯霍去病 A Lake of Misty Rain一湖烟雨Ancient Romance343k WordsCompleted A story of mutual devotion, the Han Dynasty, Records of the Grand Historian, Book of Han, historical research, imagination, political intrigue, period drama, 1v1 romance, Huo Qubing, Emperor Wu of Han, the Xiongnu, medicine, childhood friends, and a female physician. This is not a wish-fulfillment story. Yi Shuo was the first female imperial physician in Chinese history to be recorded in the annals. There is no record of Huo Qubing having a wife, but records do mention that he had a son. The Han 145Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Learn about history by incorporating your imagination into historical events.

19. 219 贯 A Little Shop Spanning the River of History 贯穿历史长河的小店 Tangerine Throne橘座啊Historical317k WordsCompleted Ying Zheng: Ancestors, I have failed you! Zhu Biao: Father! Fourth Brother is your son! They're all your sons!! Zhu Yuanzhang: He'll spend his whole life proving that I was wrong! Zhu Di: Father, I'm more worthy of that position than Zhu Yunwen! Liu Che: Witchcraft? Heh, she's my target! Not the crown prince!! Li Shimin: Once you reach that point, everyone ahead of you is a thorn in your path! Cao Cao: I have no regrets!! 1.1kReads8.8Score104Shelves
20. 220 大 Great Ming: Reborn as the Chongzhen Emperor, I Choose to Give Up 大明：开局穿成崇祯，我选择摆烂 Ka Ka Ka Ka Bu卡卡卡卡布Historical504k WordsOngoing (No System!! Not a naive, inexperienced protagonist!! Not a wish-fulfillment story!! If that bothers you, read with caution!! This is a Chongzhen transmigration story rooted in the historical facts of the late Ming!!) (Absolutely no System! Don't believe the bad-faith review-bombing from black PR studios! I've been targeted!) History's dead ends are never rewritten with a casual stroke of a transmigrator's pen. Yuan Chonghuan's crimes and contributions, Sun Chuanting's life and death, Li Zich 1.9kReads6.1Score107Shelves

    Reader note

    This book leans towards realism, is brutal and heavy, and can be oppressive and tiring to read. History is inherently like this, and it should be this way. Not a lighthearted read; beginners should avoid it.

21. 221 不 If You Won't Write the Memorial, Why Are You Going on the Northern Campaign? 不写出师表，你北什么伐呀！ Autumn Wind Over Luoshui洛水秋风Historical2.8M WordsCompleted “This place is so delightful, I could forget all about Shu!” Liu Shan, who left behind this timeless saying, thought he had died. But when he opened his eyes again, he had become Zhao Gou, the emperor of the Great Song. With none of Zhao Gou's memories, he gazed at the officials filling the court and fell into deep thought. They have a chancellor here too? The name Qin Hui might not sound like much, but surely he's as capable in both letters and arms as my foster father! Hmm? Wait, why is there 43.1kReads8.9Score4.6kShelves
22. 222 重 Reborn in Water Margin as Liang Zhongshu 重生水浒之我是梁中书 Red Falcon红色小隼Historical458k WordsOngoing He transmigrates into the world of Water Margin (and another novel from the same era that can't be named), becoming Liang Shijie, “the Great Song's number-one live-in son-in-law.” With a fierce wife at his bedside, political enemies at court, heroes of the jianghu, and foreign foes at the border, watch as he sidelines Cai Jing, plots Gao Qiu's downfall, backs Chao Gai, exposes Song Jiang, crushes Tian Hu, brings Wang Qing to heel, puts down Fang La, reclaims the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yu 18Reads6.9Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Reborn as Liang Zhongshu in Water Margin, from a money-giving boy to a powerful minister, his path to reversal of fortune is increasingly captivating!

23. 223 镇 The Prince of Beizhen: Guarding My Eight Houses of Beiliang 镇北王：守我八房北凉 Slash Immortal斜杠仙人Historical1.3M WordsOngoing Nine lifetimes of reincarnation, all for one long-held wish! With sand and smoke filling the air, how can good and evil be told apart amid the chaos? Watch how Xiao Bufan leads the Xiao family out of the capital of Great Qian, takes charge of Beiliang, and searches for the bond that has spanned nine lifetimes! 7.1kReads8.0Score493Shelves

    Reader note

    Recommended for readers who enjoy ensemble dramas, featuring a captivating interplay of various factions within the imperial court, distinct female characters, and each with their own independent and complete story.

24. 224 权 The Conquest for Power 权征 Riding a Wild Boar骑着野猪Historical1.1M WordsCompleted A young master of the Duan clan, a powerful family in Xuantu Commandery, Pingzhou, within the Great Zhou Empire, travels to the imperial capital to study at the Imperial Academy. He never expects to get caught up in factional struggles at court, setting him on a path to power! (This is not a pure wish-fulfillment novel. It focuses on political maneuvering and war, and the protagonist is a bit of a pushover early on!) 361Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It's an alternate history, without a system or strategy.

25. 225 纵 So What If You’re Reborn? 纵你重生又如何 Yao Yaoya妖幺芽Ancient Romance169k WordsCompleted [The main story is complete] [Two powerful leads + no point in being reborn as a concubine’s daughter + face-slapping and punishing scoundrels + the male lead has a secret crush] [A cool, composed beauty with overwhelming combat prowess vs. a mysterious, bewitching prince] [One-on-one romance + happy ending + single and chaste] Her mother was the most favored legitimate princess, her uncle was the reigning emperor, her maternal grandmother was empress dowager of the realm, and her older brother 2.4kReads8.9Score316Shelves

    Reader note

    🔥🔥① Deep within the palace lies the secret of a young lady. Her mother is a legitimate princess, her uncle is the emperor, her brother is a general, and she herself is a master of music, chess, calligraphy, painting, medicine, and martial arts.

26. 226 穿 Transmigrating Through History: Vast Huaxia, Conversations Across the Ages 穿越历史：泱泱华夏，对话古今 Ink-Dipping Guest落墨客Historical1.0M WordsCompleted After transmigrating, Huang Yuan discovers that he has become the youngest host at China Central Television, and a future star of the national broadcasting team. The station also decides to have him create a show that travels through history and brings ancient and modern figures face to face. The plan was to hire actors, but with the help of the System, Huang Yuan can actually cross through history and interview people from the past. Face-to-face with Zhu Yuanzhang, the Hongwu Emperor, Huang Yua 770Reads8.9Score—Shelves
27. 227 渡 Crossing Paths with Xiao Chi 渡萧迟 Shu Yinyueyue舒音月月Ancient Romance114k WordsOngoing Xiao Yanyan, a noblewoman of the Liao, and Han Derang, the son of a Han official, fell in love as children and pledged to grow old together. But an imperial edict selecting consorts tore them apart. She was sent to the palace and became Empress to Emperor Jingzong of Liao. Five years later, the emperor died, leaving her with their young crown prince. The imperial clansmen coveted power, and powerful ministers watched like hawks. The widowed empress and her son were in mortal danger. At the most 19Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Historical prototypes: Xiao Yanyan and Han Derang

28. 228 大 Great Qin: The Greediest Official of All Time, Praised as a Loyal Minister by the First Emperor 大秦：千古贪官，祖龙夸我是忠臣 Young Master Xuanniao公子玄鸟Historical1.9M WordsCompleted [Political intrigue] + [fiery passion] + [rivalry for supremacy] + [ruthless action] + [no System] In the twenty-eighth year of the First Emperor's reign, after performing the Fengshan sacrifice at Mount Tai, Qin Shi Huang disguises himself as a wealthy merchant to tour the land incognito. To his surprise, he discovers that the local township head, Heifu, is openly accepting bribes, colluding with merchants! He is only a township head, yet his residence is extravagantly luxurious, with hundreds 6.1kReads9.2Score614Shelves
29. 229 龙 The Dragon Rises in Jinling: Reviving the Tang Dynasty for Five Hundred Years 龙起金陵，再续大唐五百年 Guest at the Deer’s Call鹿鸣客Historical163k WordsOngoing “The emperor in Chang’an, the army of the Wei residence.” The Wei residence’s household troops had become a thing of the past beneath the executioner’s blade, while the emperor in Chang’an lived in constant fear amid troubles both within and without. Does an emperor have some special birthright? Whoever commands the strongest troops and finest horses becomes emperor! Flames raged everywhere. Looking across the land, the Tang was now divided among rival regional warlords: Zhu Wen, Li Keyong, Yang 52Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Book recommendation! The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, slow-burn, no system, no cheat codes, no showing off, no mindless plots, no cultivation, with history, characters, war, scheming, and strategy, an adopted son usurps power and controls the regional warlords, eventually unifying the world and continuing the five-hundred-year-old Tang Dynasty!

30. 230 商 A Comprehensive History of Commerce 商史通鉴 Mu Feng Wuchen, Branch Office沐枫无尘分号Historical1.5M WordsCompleted A sweeping historical novel that lays bare six centuries of power games in the Shang dynasty. No myths, no romanticized tales, only the truest human nature, the cruelest contests, and the deepest lessons of rise and fall. My writing on Shang history began with questions about the origins of Chinese civilization, and ended with a reunion with myself. The Shang dynasty was a pivotal era when the rites, royal authority, and divine power of Huaxia took shape together. Yet scarce historical records a 168Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A meticulously researched and insightful comprehensive history of the Shang Dynasty, a truly high-quality work.

31. 231 开 I Unveiled the Imperial Notice from the Start, and My Princess Wife Is a Transmigrator Too 开局揭皇榜，公主老婆也是穿越者 Little Horse Gallops小马飞驰Historical161k WordsOngoing For three years, the notice inviting suitors for the princess’s hand has hung high in Kaifeng City. Countless talented scholars have failed and gone home. In time, this unparalleled couplet became the greatest unsolved mystery of the Great Song Dynasty. One day, the emperor grants a general amnesty. Su Yun, who transmigrated as a live-in son-in-law and has spent three years in prison after being framed, arrives before the imperial notice. He stares at the strange couplet, “If one changes, it bec —Reads—Score—Shelves
32. 232 水 Water Margin: Reborn, Who'd Still Accept an Imperial Pardon? 水浒：都重生了，谁还招安啊！ Han Yu寒羽Historical3.3M WordsCompleted Trade height for insight from the start! Ren Yuan transmigrates into a minor character in Water Margin, determined to forge his own legend in the martial world at the end of the Northern Song dynasty! Wherever the banners of the Liangshan army fly, the land belongs to the Han people! I’ll save the people the Great Song won’t save, and fight the enemies the Great Song won’t dare to fight! Jin Wushu: Ren Yuan, stay away from me! 67kReads9.1Score5.2kShelves
33. 233 烬 Chronicles of Burning Embers, Part One: Tang Embers: Smoke over Haidong 烬燃录第一部：唐烬：海东烟 Deng Zhifeng邓治锋Historical537k WordsOngoing During the Kaiyuan era of the Tang dynasty, Deng Zifeng, a transmigrator who knows how history will unfold, tries to prevent the golden age from collapsing, but becomes trapped in a perilous situation. He meets Kibi Sakurako, the daughter of a Japanese noble family torn by inner conflict, and the two become bound together by fate. They witness Japanese forces resorting to any means necessary to steal the Tang dynasty's “strength.” Hunted relentlessly by a mastermind working behind the scenes, th 4Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    "The Burning Chronicles" is a magnificent historical novel with profound themes. The author, with solid historical and literary knowledge, constructs a realistic and relatable Tang Dynasty era. The narrative pace is well-balanced, offering both delicate depictions of the East China Sea's turbulent waters and grand portrayals of the Western Regions' conflicts. Its most valuable aspect lies in transcending the typical time-travel story format, profoundly exploring timeless themes such as cultural exchange, the boundaries of power, and individual conscience through the richly developed fates of characters like Deng Zifeng and Kibi Sakura.

34. 234 大 Great Qin: I Reveal from the Start That I Transmigrated, Leaving Ying Zheng Stunned 大秦：开局自曝穿越者，嬴政麻了 The Production Team's Donkey ③生产队的驴③Historical2.9M WordsCompleted Good news: It’s finally my turn to transmigrate! Bad news: I’ve transmigrated to the end of the Qin dynasty. In five years, the First Emperor will die, and the realm will descend into chaos as heroes vie for supremacy. Good news: Five years is plenty of time to build up my strength and lie low while I grow. Bad news: The Black Ice Terrace has burst through my door. “Chen Qing, your case has come to light!” Good news: Your Majesty, I’m a transmigrator from the year 2200! I know the future of Grea 16.2kReads8.9Score1.6kShelves
35. 235 大 Great Ming: Crashing into a Pillar from the Start, Terrifying the Entire Court 大明：开局撞柱，吓坏满朝文武 Carefree Buddhist佛系无忧Historical1.0M WordsCompleted [From the start + System + transmigration + scheming + history + wild imagination] So, what exactly are the regrets of the Ming dynasty? The Hongwu Emperor, who lost his father, mother, wife, son, and grandson; the imperial eldest grandson who died young; Crown Prince Zhu Biao, widely regarded as the most secure heir in history; the indomitable founder who started with a single bowl; the man who ended with a tree and nothing but tears; and the Yongle Emperor’s lament: “Can even a lifetime of ach 8.9kReads8.2Score439Shelves
36. 236 文 The Civil and Martial Arts of Song 文宋武略 Zhu Tao翥焘Historical552k WordsOngoing A 996 overworked employee at an electronics company transmigrates to the Northern Song. He uses modern knowledge to develop the salt industry, then draws on his knowledge of later history to anticipate Wang Jun’s rebellion and prepare for it in advance, intervening in the course of history. He also puts his knowledge of the later imperial examinations to use, entering officialdom through the child prodigy exam. He develops the economy, creates military equipment, and reorganizes the army, leadin 26Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Traveling back to the Northern Song Dynasty, a technical expert, meticulous about details, and thus, thunder roars in silence.

37. 237 世 The Fierce Heir: This Young Lady Is Mine 世子凶猛：这个小娘子，我抢定了 Fruit Wine Beneath the Moon月下果子酒Historical2.1M WordsOngoing Original novel of the short drama “The Heir Is Fierce: I’m Claiming This Young Lady” One moment he opens his eyes, and he’s in Great Yan. Yang Shu is quite pleased with his identity: the sole heir of the Prince of Dingguo’s household. The emperor suspects him and the noble families shun him, but that’s no big deal. He’ll just rebel. If you’re going to be a spoiled young master, you have to act like one. First, beat up your future father-in-law... Second, smash up a gambling den... And third, sna 14kReads8.5Score883Shelves
38. 238 祖 Ancestor! You're Choosing Consorts? A History Cheat Is Here! 祖宗诶！选妃呢？历史作弊器来喽 Steamed Bun with Red Bean Paste馒头豆沙包Urban1.0M WordsCompleted If you could transmigrate through time and change history, what would you do? "I'd tell the Yongzheng Emperor to stop picking consorts! The West was industrializing at the same time. If he'd worked harder, gotten his act together, and focused more on science, we'd be the ones working four days on, three days off by now!" "If I could transmigrate to the Ming Dynasty, I'd make sure Zhu Qizhen never took the throne. Then maybe the Ming wouldn't have fallen! Long live the Ming for a thousand gener 4.9kReads9.2Score494Shelves
39. 239 明 A Ming-Era Deserter: I Wanted to Lie Low, but the Turbulent Times Forced Me to Draw My Blade 明末逃卒：想苟，乱世却逼我拔刀 Golden Rabbit Head兔头金Historical213k WordsOngoing [No System + Hardcore Survival + Internally Consistent Logic + Meticulous Details + No Mindless Power Fantasy + Relentless Bloodshed] A dung fork from the start, and everything else has to be looted? Wang Feng, an engineering guy who moonlights as a martial arts stuntman, gets knocked unconscious with a club and wakes up in the chaotic final years of the Ming dynasty! There’s no overpowered System, and he has no kingly aura. All he has is a group of ragged, starving deserters. At his side ar 236Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The most realistic late Ming Dynasty novel ever! A rare gem among late Ming Dynasty novels! Thoroughly researched, logically rigorous, and realistically detailed. The protagonist is transported to the late Ming Dynasty, without a system or cheat codes—no Mary Sue, no overpowered protagonist, no mindless wish-fulfillment, and the opponents are not unintelligent. He struggles to survive using the meticulous logic of an engineering student. Most importantly: this book does not insult the reader's intelligence.

40. 240 大 Great Tang: Li Shimin Begs Me to Start a Rebellion 大唐：李世民求我造反 Joy Throughout the Land天下乐Historical3.1M WordsCompleted Li Ke transmigrates to the Zhenguan era of the Tang dynasty. He plans to use his skills as a motivational speaker to brainwash a loyal crew and keep his head down as an unremarkable prince. But eight years after transmigrating, he discovers that he brought along an entire national strategic reserve warehouse. So Li Ke throws caution to the wind. If he’s going to be a prince, he might as well be one who fears nothing and lives as freely as he pleases! First, he starts a newspaper to build his rep 157.2kReads9.5Score16.9kShelves
41. 241 朕 I Am Hongli, Building a Golden Age for the Qing Dynasty 朕是弘历打造大清盛世 Third Aunt from the Farm农家三姑Historical1.4M WordsOngoing [Political Intrigue + Harem Rivalries + Factional Strife + Romance + Emperor] Hongli ascended the throne at twenty-five and ruled for sixty years, making him the longest-reigning and longest-lived emperor in history. He governed with diligence, excelling in both civil and military affairs, and led the Qing to the height of its golden age. Yet factional strife raged through the court, conflicts in the deep palace never ceased, and danger lurked behind the splendor. In the end, the golden age ga 15.7kReads8.3Score432Shelves

    Reader note

    It's so beautiful!

42. 242 一 One Essay on Young China, and I’m Forced to Rebel 一篇少年华夏说，我被迫造反 Xinghan Xuanyu星汉玄羽Historical2.4M WordsCompleted Liu Wu shouted from the podium: “Great Qian is weak and declining. Today, things have reached the point of no return.” “The imperial clan and the nobles and officials cling to outdated ways, covering up the truth with empty appearances.” “Proud Huaxia is scorned by the nations and looked down upon by foreign peoples.” “We scholars have studied the books of the sages so hard. How can we not do everything in our power to turn the tide and restore the Han?” One scholar said, “Liu Wu, are you trying 3.7kReads8.6Score254Shelves
43. 243 建 The Unvanquished Jianwen Emperor 建文不败 Somebody Who Doesn't Know Autumn某不知秋Historical107k WordsOngoing My new work is out! You're welcome to read it on Tomato Novel. I hope you'll enjoy it. Your support is what keeps me writing, and I'll do my best to tell every story well! —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The protagonist, Chen Yuan, unexpectedly transmigrates into the body of the newly enthroned Jianwen Emperor. Facing Zhu Di, who is eyeing Beiping with hostility, Chen Yuan uses his thorough understanding of history to expose the rebellious intentions of the princes. Together with Xu Huizu, he devises offensive and defensive strategies, proactively breaking the deadlock and turning the tide in the face of the crisis.

44. 244 大 The Tang Dynasty’s Fine Prince 大唐好贤王 The Six Arts of the Gentlemen君子六艺Historical3.3M WordsCompleted [Funny and Stress-Relieving + Fiery Battles + Alternate History + “A Loving Father and Filial Son” + Top-Tier Jokesters Teaming Up + No System, Just a Golden Finger + Deep Grandparent-Grandchild Bond] In an alternate universe, in another Tang dynasty, the blood of the Xuanwu Gate Incident stained the flagstones beneath the palace walls red, and a different legend of the prosperous Tang began! Li Kuan, the second prince raised by his grandmother, Empress Dowager Taimu, survived a brush with dea 56.2kReads9.4Score4.8kShelves

    Reader note

    If you're looking for something funny, then you definitely can't miss this one! 😆😆

45. 245 直 Livestream: From Disgraced Prince to Emperor for the Ages 直播：从被废皇子到千古一帝 Blue Gravity蓝色引力Historical1.3M WordsCompleted Chai Yu’s soul transmigrated into Great Zhou, a dynasty resembling the Song, where he became an abandoned member of the imperial family and fell into a plot laid by others. Fortunately, he came with a live-streaming System. Porcelain experts went wild: “Good heavens, at last I’m seeing a priceless Jun ware rose-purple vase!” Painting masters marveled: “Is this an authentic work by Li Yu of Southern Tang?” Travel influencers were impressed: “So the mountains and rivers of ancient times could be t 40Reads—Score—Shelves
46. 246 人 The People's He Liu Hun: This Time, I Won't Become Prince Gao 人民的贺六浑：这一次我不做高王 CyanedgeHistorical738k WordsOngoing With a soul from a later age, he plunged into a world of chaos that devoured all who entered. In 2023, on the rainy night his thesis defense failed, history doctoral student Chen Zhiqing opened his eyes to find himself in the Northern Wei's Zhengguang era, year four, as Gao Huan, a courier in a frontier garrison. No System, no golden finger. His only asset was the unfinished manuscript in his mind, A Study of the Six Garrisons Rebellion. From the start, it was hellishly difficult: Poliuhan Bali 218Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Carefully researched and adapted; no system or cheating involved.

47. 247 大 Forward, Ming Battle-Line Infantry! 大明战列线步兵前进 The World's One and Only Wang天下无二汪Historical1.6M WordsCompleted [An original story about the Imjin War, exclusive to Tomato] In the twentieth year of the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1592 by the Western calendar), Peng transmigrates into the past. Among the routed soldiers, he's nothing more than a low-ranking scout captain. Facing the utterly rampant Japanese pirates, and a Ming Dynasty that has effectively fallen under the Wanli Emperor's rule, Peng throws back his head and roars, “I'll make them submit through virtue!” The gear strapped across my shou 6.9kReads9.1Score629Shelves

    Reader note

    These three books are all highly rated, exciting novels set in the Ming Dynasty! The author's writing is superb, the plots are engaging, and each character has their own distinct personality.

48. 248 误 Lost in the Prosperous Tang Dynasty, Drunk on a Floating Life 误入盛唐醉浮生 Looking at the Missing Moon望缺Historical1.2M WordsCompleted One day, I accidentally stumbled into the prosperous Great Tang and became a nobody in Chang’an. The brightly lit, bustling streets of Suzaku Avenue, the poets and scholars who drank and caroused, the borderlands filled with the clamor of warhorses and weapons This was the best of times, and the most treacherous of worlds. Carrying memories that didn’t belong to this era, I hid my talents amid the lively bustle of the taverns. But when locusts swept across Guanzhong, Turkic cavalry came knockin 68Reads5.7Score138Shelves

    Reader note

    I highly recommend the historical novel set in the Zhenguan era, *A Mistaken Encounter with the Tang Dynasty: A Drunken Life*! Unlike typical Tang Dynasty farming novels, this one focuses on court intrigue and geopolitical struggles in the northern frontier. The protagonist, Shen Can, isn't in a rush to seize power, but rather proceeds cautiously, anticipating the Xueyantuo war. Meanwhile, Li Youwei, the Second Khatun of the Northern Desert, navigates the difficult situation of the foreign royal court. These two storylines intertwine. The historical details are meticulously researched, and the official ranks and customs of the era are carefully crafted. The plot is thrilling and increasingly captivating. If you're looking for a serious Tang Dynasty political intrigue novel, this is a must-read!

49. 249 超 The Time-Traveling Bookshop's Most Devoted Reader Is Zhu Yuanzhang! 超时空书店，忠实读者是朱元璋！ Lone Mountain of Chu楚山孤Historical644k WordsCompleted Zhu Chen returned to his hometown and opened a bookstore. Business was slow. But then a peculiar reader showed up, dressed like someone from ancient times. Zhu Chen wasn’t surprised, assuming he was an actor who made a living taking photos with tourists at a scenic spot. The two hit it off, chatting freely about everything from ancient times to the present, and Zhu Chen even taught him a few things. One day, several years later, time and space converged. Zhu Chen walked out of the bookstore alon 26.8kReads8.8Score2.4kShelves
50. 250 唐 The Tang Dynasty's Spendthrift Son 唐朝败家子 Searching in Misty Mountains雾山寻Historical227k WordsOngoing In the sixteenth year of the Zhenguan era, Li Yuanying transmigrates into the Tang dynasty as its most infamous wastrel prince. Everyone in Chang’an calls him ridiculous: he spends two thousand taels on a run-down blacksmith shop, ten thousand taels on worthless rocks from foreign merchants, and insists on building an alchemy furnace before leaving for Liangzhou. The court officials laugh at him as useless. The Crown Prince and Prince Wei treat him like a pawn, while Li Shimin sees him as nothin —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I think this is one of the best Tang Dynasty novels of 2026.

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