Has anyone read a book called "The Fengtian Clique"? I'm looking for something similar, set in the late Qing or early Republican era, where the protagonist becomes a warlord and builds up their strength despite the foreign powers' blockade, gradually turning the country into a world power.
This book has no system, isn't mindless wish-fulfillment, features multiple female leads, and follows a slow-burn warlord development arc. It's currently preparing to expand into South and Southeast Asia. (The author was recently imprisoned 🤦). The protagonist, armed with a purse and a gun, embarks on his path to domination. Each female lead is unique and indispensable, not a naive or innocent character. They all deeply admire the protagonist and help him achieve his ambitions. While the current rating isn't high, it's worth reading patiently; the further you read, the more exciting it becomes.