Ladies, Any Palace-Intrigue Stories Like This That Require You to Think? 姐妹们，有没有类似的宫斗问，要带脑子才能看懂的

1. 1 贵 The Noble Consort Is Cool and Aloof, and the Emperor Yearns for Her Night After Night 贵妃清冷，圣上夜夜相思 Que Ling Yan Zi雀翎宴子Ancient Romance448k WordsCompleted Shen Qinghe was in the bloom of youth when she entered the palace, where she weathered its intrigues for more than a decade. She had hoped to leave with a reward one day, or perhaps spend her whole life peacefully as a palace official. But then an order came down, and one day she unexpectedly became an imperial consort. She watched these women fight day after day, never expecting to become entangled in their schemes herself. Shen Qinghe could only sigh. He was the emperor, and she was a palac 12.8kReads9.2Score1.2kShelves

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   Both are the emperor's childhood sweethearts, and the female lead is a palace official who was forced into becoming a concubine. She is aloof, intelligent, and patient; she is resourceful and wise. It's a very good read; the writing and plot are both excellent.

2. 2 白 The White Moonlight Noble Consort’s Daily Life in the Harem 白月光贵妃的后宫日常 Yuanzi Eats Mulberries元子吃桑葚Ancient Romance434k WordsCompleted (Cover used with permission) With an illustrious family background, breathtaking beauty, and the distinction of being the emperor’s moonlight, Jiang Hui should have found life as a Noble Consort effortlessly easy. Unfortunately, the sisters in all but name in the Eastern Palace, wave after wave of beautiful candidates from the provinces, and the supposed substitutes who resemble her in looks and bearing all tell her the same thing: no one can walk unscathed through the imperial harem. [Alternate 24.6kReads9.3Score1.9kShelves
3. 3 拽 The Feisty Consort Climbs to Power Through Palace Intrigue, Everyone Else Back Off 拽妃宫斗上位，闲杂人等退退退 Pine Blossom Candy松花糖Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The short drama is out now. Search for it on Fanqie to watch. [Palace Intrigue Power Fantasy + Not a Clean Romance + Being the Emperor’s Mother Is Better Than Being His Consort] Every woman in the harem hopes to win Emperor Jingrong’s favor, but Yuan Yuntang sees the emperor only as a tool for having children. Women in ancient times had to marry sooner or later anyway, so she might as well marry the most powerful man of all. After all, Emperor Jingrong has a great figure, a handsome face, and a 16.6kReads9.1Score1.8kShelves

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   A novel featuring a clear-headed female protagonist, borrowing Wei Yingluo's words, is about becoming more energetic the more you fight.

4. 4 桃 Ride Out to Battle, Peach Blossoms in My Wake 桃花马上请长缨 June六月Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted The short drama adaptation of June's novel, Power and Favor 3: Power and Favor in the Capital, is now available on Hongguo App. She cared for her in-laws and used her dowry to support the General's household, only for him to use his hard-won military achievements to ask for the female general's hand as his equal wife. Zhan Beiwang mocked her. “Song Xixie, do you know that your fine clothes, rich food, and glittering jewels all come from General Yi Fang and me fighting bloody battles to hold back 15kReads9.5Score5.5kShelves

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   ① With a privileged family background and stunning beauty, and not being the emperor's ideal woman, Jiang Hui should have had an easy time as a concubine. Unfortunately, her superficial sisters in the Eastern Palace, the successive waves of beautiful women from various prefectures, and the so-called substitutes with similar looks and temperaments all told her that no one in the harem could walk on flat ground. ② She served her in-laws, using her dowry to supplement the general's mansion, yet he sought to marry her as a concubine, despite her military achievements. Zhan Beiwang sneered: "Song Xixi, do you know that your luxurious life and dazzling wealth are all thanks to the bloody battles fought by this general and Yi Fang against the barbarians? You will never become a valiant and imposing female general like Yi Fang; you only know how to be clever and exchange cunning schemes with a bunch of ladies." Song Xixi turned and left, riding her horse to the battlefield. She was from a military family, but simply washing her hands to cook for Zhan Beiwang didn't mean she couldn't wield a spear.

5. 5 为 The Concubine's Guide to Self-Cultivation 为妾的自我修养 Yu Jian郁见Ancient Romance429k WordsOngoing Zhu Yan transmigrates as a merchant's daughter and becomes a pawn her family uses to avoid disaster. Her father sends her to Changning Marquis Xie An as a concubine. As a concubine, Zhu Yan stays true to herself. She doesn't compete, make a fuss, or draw attention. Who could have guessed that the Marquis of Changning would be so fortunate? When something happens to the royal family's only two heirs, the emperor chooses Xie An, a member of the imperial clan, to inherit the throne. If a concubine 6.3kReads9.2Score450Shelves

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   In this book, I settled down in that world without thinking about changing the world structure, nor did I feel sorry for myself, nor did I trap myself. But find your own best way out

6. 6 娘 The Empress Is Alluring and Bewitching, and the Emperor Gives In to Pleasure 娘娘撩人魅惑，帝王纵情堕落 You Gongyu尤宫羽Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The Tomato short drama Kun Yi is now streaming~ [Transmigrate into a book, male lead is not a virgin but female lead is, palace intrigue, psychological games, happy ending] The Crown Prince, Jun Zechen, has seen his fair share of calculating women, and loves only those who are pure and kind. While campaigning beyond the frontier, he meets Ling Yue and is captivated by her free-spirited kindness. He promises to spend his life with her alone. But two years pass, and the Crown Princess has yet to c 120.1kReads9.5Score11.3kShelves

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   🌈A story of a wicked woman + transmigration into a book + a clear-headed protagonist. During the male lead's and the original female lead's passionate romance, the female lead is betrothed to the male lead. The male lead initially dislikes the female lead, but gradually falls for her under her influence. It's super captivating! Come read it! [Full][Full][Full]

7. 7 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 82.1kReads9.5Score9.3kShelves
8. 8 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 254.1kReads9.7Score29.8kShelves

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   It's a great read. As a bookworm of over a decade, I persevered and finished this novel of over a million words. The author's writing style is truly excellent, easily drawing the reader into the emotional rollercoaster of the story. I highly recommend the author's other books; they're all fantastic.

9. 9 一 A Concubine for One Coin 一辛为妾 The Maple Leaf That Presses Onward勇往直前的枫叶Ancient Romance731k WordsCompleted A poor little girl turns her life around and becomes a powerful figure. In her previous life, Xin Rubao was bullied and pitiful. After transmigrating, she overcomes her fear of crowds, beginning by trying to accept the family around her. Step by step, she escapes the shadow of her past life and uses her modern knowledge to help the male lead reclaim power over the realm, save the people from misery, and ultimately become a wise empress. Xin Bao'er: I married you to be your concubine. Chu Xingche 1Reads—Score—Shelves

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   A brilliant female protagonist is bullied, then transmigrates to another world. She overcomes her inner demons and helps the male protagonist rise from prison to power. It's a story of a pitiful girl's growth. Add it to your favorites if you like!

10. 10 都 Since I've Transmigrated into the Qing Dynasty, Why Not Boldly Choose Kangxi? 都清穿了，不妨大胆点选康熙啊！ Midnight Stars深夜星辰Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted On the first day Shi Nanxi transmigrates into the Qing Dynasty, she learns that her elder legitimate sister, Shi Rongyue, is also a transmigrator. Shi Rongyue wants to escape her future as the Crown Princess, so she approaches Nanxi and offers to let her marry the Crown Prince while she marries the Fourth Prince. Anyone who transmigrates into the Qing Dynasty knows the history. The Crown Prince’s later years are miserable. Though the Fourth Prince eventually wins, he is only thirteen now and wil 18.3kReads9.2Score2.2kShelves
11. 11 娘 Her Grace Is Cool and Gentle, and Everyone Loves Her 娘娘她清冷温柔惹人爱 Yue Xiao悦肖Ancient Romance404k WordsCompleted A pure palace-intrigue story, in classical style. No transmigration, no rebirth. The fate of a noblewoman has never been hers to decide. She is Yun Wan, the Chancellor's only legitimate daughter. Her destiny was set from birth: everything she learned was solely to prepare her to enter the palace. Would she willingly enter the palace and fade into obscurity, becoming a pawn the emperor could use to keep the Yun family in check? Or would she carefully maneuver her way into becoming the favorite co 1.4kReads8.4Score118Shelves

    Reader note

    It's really good, highly recommend it!!!

12. 12 入 I Entered the Palace to Help My Sister Keep the Emperor’s Favor, but Became His Cherished Favorite 入宫替嫡姐固宠，却成皇上掌心宠 Hot Hot烫烫Ancient Romance504k WordsCompleted In her previous life, she entered the palace and devoted herself to helping her legitimate elder sister keep the emperor’s favor. In the end, she died without a body to bury, abandoned by her family. Returning to the year of the imperial selection, Luo Shuran calculates her every move. Her breathtaking beauty is her only weapon. She sheds her youthful timidity and blossoms into a woman of captivating charm. One fleeting glimpse, like a fairy fallen from the heavens, catches the emperor’s eye. 6.1kReads9.3Score878Shelves
13. 13 科 Imperial Exam Triumph: The Strongest Female Grand Secretary 科举逆袭：最强女首辅 Dressed in Splendor宝妆成Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted After finally becoming the first female heir in her family, she opens her eyes and finds herself back before the revolution. Her father is dead from the start, leaving her with a frail mother and three beautiful older sisters. She is the only son who can carry on the Cheng family line... Cheng Qing looks down at her slightly developed chest, wondering what on earth went wrong. Surrounded by scheming wolves, Cheng Qing, now with a new soul in her body, sets herself two small goals: First, keep pr 8.5kReads9.5Score1.3kShelves

    Reader note

    Hey darlings 😘😘 I've been reading these kinds of stories lately, and they're all amazing! 1️⃣ Yu Xian, a clear-headed, strong woman & a proud, sunny little dog 🐶 & Meng Huaijin, a calm, capable minister with a broad perspective. He's the aloof and brilliant senior from our academy, 👀 a constant companion, ❣️ with incredibly good looks, 🌿 a hand fetishist, a confidant, a close friend. And that red-clad young man from the Imperial Academy 🤗 I was already smitten even before I knew his gender 🙈, let alone after discovering he's a woman ☘️

14. 14 和 On the Day of Her Divorce, the Tragic Heroine Turned Around and Married the Tyrant 和离当天，虐文女主转身嫁暴君 Mu Xiaoyue木小玥Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The short drama is now online: [A laid-back, lie-flat, black-hearted legitimate daughter X a crazed, gloomy, pure-hearted tyrant] [The other man wins her over] [Original title: The Day We Divorced, the Tragic Novel's Heroine Turned Around and Married the Tyrant] At the royal autumn hunt, Song Yaozhi argues with the woman her husband brought back from the borderlands. Song Yaozhi scolds her, saying she's nothing but a concubine. Just then, her husband, Xiao Ziqian, kicks the door open and points 40.6kReads9.1Score4.2kShelves
15. 15 穿 Transmigrated into a Low-Ranking Palace Lady, I’m Hunted Down by the Eunuch in Charge 穿成小才人被掌印大人疯狂追杀 Gurgle Gurgle Sauce咕噜咕噜酱Ancient Romance323k WordsCompleted Transmigration + soul swap + both leads are pure + fake eunuch + mutual devotion + powerful hero, weaker heroine + sweet 1v1 romance Shen Miqing transmigrated into the body of an unfavored young concubine. After two years, she still hadn’t even laid eyes on the emperor. On the day she transmigrated, before her soul had even settled, she collided with the terrifying Chief Eunuch Yang Zhan. Their souls switched bodies! While she was trying to figure out whether eunuchs peed sitting down or stan 112Reads6.2Score—Shelves
16. 16 娘 The Empress Is Sweet and Alluring, Winning Favor and Rising to Power 娘娘娇软妩媚，一路争宠上位 Bell Meow铃铛喵Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted (A pure palace-intrigue story, not a one-on-one romance, and not a mutually faithful pairing. Proceed with caution!) Bai Ruotang is the legitimate daughter of the second branch of the Right Chancellor’s household. At fifteen, just after coming of age, she is sent into the palace to bear a child for her legitimate elder sister and help her secure the emperor’s favor. Unwilling to be reduced to someone else’s pawn, from the moment she steps through the palace gates, she decides she will carve out 10.5kReads8.9Score1kShelves

    Reader note

    It's a real palace intrigue story! The female lead initially only wanted to win the emperor's favor and rise in rank, but later she also fell in love with him.

17. 17 娘 The Consort Is All Charm and Cunning, Scheming Her Way to the Top 娘娘又茶又媚，一路宫斗上位 Tea Little Ink茶小墨Ancient Romance835k WordsCompleted Signed for print publication In the third year of the Yifeng era, a concubine-born daughter of the Ningyang Marquis’s household enters the palace. The palace is a vast, treacherous place, where the one thing you must never do is give your heart away. Ning Shuyan is clear-eyed: she wants wealth and prestige, along with the emperor’s favor. For three years, she carefully plots each step, wins the emperor’s attention, and rises from Talented Lady to Noble Consort. Rumor has it that the emperor only 56.6kReads9.5Score7kShelves
18. 18 惊 Shocking! The Noble Consort Wins the Favor of All Six Palaces by Gossiping 惊！贵妃娘娘靠吃瓜宠冠六宫 Day Mountain Moon昼山月Ancient Romance620k WordsCompleted [Palace intrigue + substitute + fleeing while pregnant + secret identity] [The leads are not each other’s first; she becomes his sole favorite later. The heroine stays clearheaded and never falls for him. A silly, fluffy story; the heroine is no saint.] Jing Shumei was born with stunning beauty. She used her looks to seduce the Emperor, never giving him her heart, only scheming for her own gain. Using her mind-reading ability to listen in on palace gossip and navigate the harem, she climbed step 4kReads9.3Score556Shelves
19. 19 欺 You Think I'm Helpless? After Our Divorce, I'll Crush You with My Secret Identity 欺我无用？和离后我用马甲压死你 Only Wishing for Yisheng唯愿亦笙Ancient Romance227k WordsCompleted The most satisfying part of this story is: “Back then, you couldn’t care less about me. After the divorce, you’ll be out of my league.” Leave the rotten trash behind, and gold is yours for the taking. The heroine is as capable with a pen as with a sword, beautiful and rich, and has a whole stack of secret identities! 293Reads8.1Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    A thrilling experience from beginning to end, with a fast-paced plot and a ruthless female lead who delivers slaps to the faces of others! Don't miss it!

20. 20 报 Reporting to the Princess: The Prince Says He Needs Another Acupuncture Session 报告王妃：王爷说他今天又欠扎了 Only Wishing for Yisheng唯愿亦笙Ancient Romance155k WordsCompleted [Power fantasy, beloved by everyone, both leads are chaste, sweet romance + love that grows over time, one partner for life, the male lead plays the pig to eat the tiger and acts like a playboy, the female lead is scheming, cunning, and sharp-tongued.] Su Qingqing transmigrated and, from the start, hit all three rules of being reborn: One: Transmigration means you’re bound to be abandoned (you’ll either die, suffer miserably, or be abused until you’d be better off dead). Two: A wretched woman co 3Reads7.0Score—Shelves
21. 21 心 The Cunning Maid Hooks Him, and the Young Lord Falls Head Over Heels 心机丫头勾手，世子爷宠成恋爱脑 Lucky Little Koi锦鲤小福宝Ancient Romance124k WordsCompleted [Scheming, Vengeful Bad Girl vs. Mercurial, Brooding Heir] Wen Xi, the new maid at the Duke of Guo's residence, looks obedient, but she's full of wicked ideas. On her first day after being sold into the household, she sets her sights on the sickly heir. Everyone else says he won't live through the winter. Only she can tell that he's hiding his true nature even better than she is. "My lord, how about a deal?" She crouches by his bed, her fingertip tracing the pulse at his wrist. "I'll find the pe —Reads—Score—Shelves
22. 22 惊 What?! The Villainous Tycoon Is My Older Brother. Stay Calm! 惊！反派大佬是我兄长，稳住！ Ruthless Flower Chaser辣手追花Ancient Romance626k WordsCompleted [Transmigrate + woman disguises herself as a man + pocket dimension + sibling affection + romance interest unknown + lighthearted wish-fulfillment story] [Warning: The protagonist likes handsome men, so this may feel a little like a harem story. If that bothers you, don’t read!] A modern landlady transmigrates into a book as a dissolute young villainess who disguises herself as a man. When she learns that the tragic, powerful villain is her own older brother, she immediately grabs hold of his co 9.7kReads9.0Score1kShelves

    Reader note

    It could be considered a palace intrigue story, but it's more about vying for power.

23. 23 穿 The Daily Life of a Laid-Back Concubine After Transmigrating 穿越之闲鱼妾室的日常 Tian Nanxing Nan天南星南Ancient Romance480k WordsCompleted [Transmigration + household and palace intrigue + no golden finger + devoted love later on] Zhang Xinian transmigrated into the body of a concubine in Prince Jing’s household. Above her was the princess consort, backed by powerful connections and ruthless in her methods. Beside her was a brainless side consort with overwhelming fighting prowess. Below her, a reborn woman and a transmigrated woman were locked in fierce competition. Zhang Xinian trembled with fear. She had no golden finger and did 104.7kReads9.4Score12.2kShelves

    Reader note

    Trust me, this book isn't mindless; it's very good.

24. 24 皇 The Empress Doesn't Love the Emperor, and Now He Regrets It Too Late 皇后娘娘不爱陛下，陛下追悔莫及 Mr. Fanyang范阳先生Ancient Romance271k WordsCompleted [Transmigration, emperor and empress couple, not a mutually devoted romance] The young emperor Xiao Chenyuan had just ascended the throne when he met Luo Qingning, the daughter of a military family, at a palace banquet. He fell in love at first sight and, despite her existing engagement, appointed her empress on the spot. Luo Qingning was a clear-headed university student born in the 2000s. After unexpectedly transmigrating to an unfamiliar world, she remained a committed opponent of marriage an 4.7kReads8.0Score106Shelves

    Reader note

    The emperor here is incredibly selfish and suspicious, and he only uses the female lead. The palace intrigue isn't just between the concubines and the empress; it also involves the emperor's various schemes, which is truly despicable.

25. 25 娇 After Her Beloved Becomes a Widow, the Chaste Governor Imprisons Her and Becomes Obsessed 娇娇守寡后，禁欲督主囚她上瘾 Xiao Yimian小亦绵Ancient Romance504k WordsCompleted 5.3kReads9.0Score668Shelves

    Reader note

    The story of a real concubine and a fake eunuch is very good.

26. 26 虐 While Taking Down Scumbags, I Somehow Attracted a Living Hades 虐渣时，竟给自己招惹了个活阎王 Dreams Take Flight梦儿飞Ancient Romance361k WordsOngoing She was once one of China’s top assassins, but someone tricked her into taking a love potion. On a deserted street, she forced herself on a man. Who could have guessed she would transmigrate to the Xingyue Continent and learn the truth about her birth? She even witnessed her own younger sister being killed right before her eyes. She swore to avenge her sister and mother. After burying her sister, she had planned to kill the scumbag man and woman outright, but at the last moment, she changed h —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    These books are all exceptionally good, and the female leads are incredibly capable, the kind that makes you instantly hooked. Moreover, the female leads are strong in themselves, no less so than the male leads.

27. 27 医 The Poisoned Doctor Consort: Crown Prince, Don’t Be Afraid of Me 医妃有毒,禁欲太子别害怕 Mo Qianchang墨千裳Ancient Romance2.3M WordsCompleted Yan Weichi, a forensic doctor who possessed a rare treasure, accidentally transmigrated. With a knife in her left hand, she could speak up for the dead; with a needle in her right, she could treat the living. She could do business with both the living and the dead! Yan Weichi: With my skills, won't I thrive in ancient times? Men? What's a man? Men only slow down how fast I can draw my blade. Oh, handsome men are the exception! Shangguan Xi, the most handsome man in the land and the Crown Prince 31.5kReads9.3Score4.2kShelves
28. 28 王 The Princess Consort Goes on a Killing Spree, and the Prince Begs for Her Mercy 王妃杀疯了，王爷求垂怜 Xiao Siyin小思音Ancient Romance801k WordsCompleted [Political Scheming + Cunning Heroine + Wish Fulfillment + Ruthless and Decisive + Badass Heroine + Smart Characters + Nation and Family] Mu Chaoyan, commander of the elite training camp for China’s special forces, transmigrated to Eastern Chu. She blazed a trail as a woman, rooted out corrupt officials, purged the court, trained elite troops, strengthened the nation, pacified the four corners of the realm, and ushered in a golden age. From the start, her grandfather and father were killed in 953Reads7.7Score108Shelves
29. 29 重 Reborn: I Flirted the Gloomy Regent into a Daze 重生后，阴鸷摄政王被我撩晕了 Heart Yearning for Gardenias心向往栀Ancient Romance556k WordsCompleted "Print edition available for preorder October 24 at 7 p.m.!" "Black Lotus Beauty of a Princess & the Grim, Ruthless Regent" [Two Powerful Leads + Sweet Romance + Devoted Couple + Putting Scumbags in Their Place] Zhixian was the sharpest blade at the side of the Third Prince of Nanzhao, eliminating every obstacle in his bid for the throne. But on the day he was named crown prince, she met her end. "Zhixian, if you want to blame someone, blame yourself for knowing too much." Xuan Yuan Heng wiped t 32.9kReads9.3Score3.3kShelves
30. 30 毒 The Poisonous Consort Is Not to Be Trifled With 毒妃不好惹 Mo Qianchang墨千裳Ancient Romance2.7M WordsOngoing A power-play plot wrapped in a sweet romance! Su Ziyu, a modern expert in toxicology, transmigrated into the illegitimate daughter of the Chancellor. Imprisoned, with her birth mother dead, her stepmother persecuting her and her sisters poisoning her, she faced a brutal fight for survival. Su Ziyu thought, “Winning with a good hand is no great feat. Winning with a terrible hand, now that’s impressive!” The first card she would play: leverage! Su Ziyu looked at the mighty Prince of Qin before her 160Reads—Score—Shelves
31. 31 锁 Locked in the Spring Night 锁春宵 Banana Pizza香蕉披萨Ancient Romance1.5M WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + reborn + revenge on scum + sweet romance + mutually faithful] In her previous life, Su Qingyu had been married for three years without ever consummating the marriage. Then her cousin suddenly appeared before her with a child, and Su Qingyu finally learned that the man wasn't impotent. He just couldn't perform with her. Her cousin stripped off Su Qingyu's face, took her place as the legitimate daughter of the marquis's household, and became the matriarch of the S 32.8kReads9.3Score5.5kShelves

    Reader note

    Once you start looking at it, you can't put it down.

32. 32 嫡 The Legitimate Daughter Claims the Pearl 嫡女夺珠 Song Qiansheng宋浅声Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted Lu Yangyang dreams that she is the real daughter of a duke's family, her face disfigured and her life stolen by someone else. In the future, her jealousy of the fake heiress will earn her the family's rejection. She will be married off in haste, then abused to death by her husband. The carriage sent to bring her back to the capital is already waiting at the gate. Lu Yangyang was born with superhuman strength. She refuses to believe in that fate, rolls up her sleeves, and heads back to the capita 20.6kReads9.1Score3kShelves

    Reader note

    This looks good.

33. 33 宫 The Willow by the Palace Wall 宫墙柳 Dream Doll梦娃Ancient Romance166k WordsCompleted Why must the imperial consorts compete for the emperor’s favor? A smash-hit, heart-wrenching historical romance that burst onto the scene in 2019! Recommended by countless tearful readers, this unconventional palace-intrigue novel will stay with you long after you finish. In the lightest of styles, it captures everyone’s deepest regrets. In May of the year I turned fourteen, with the pagoda trees in fragrant bloom, I sat in Yong’an Palace, propping up my head as I dozed. The man’s laughter held 48.6kReads9.7Score7.1kShelves

    Reader note

    These two books are quite good; the content is engaging and the storylines are captivating. I highly recommend them.

34. 34 娇 The Pampered Madam 娇宠夫人 A Journey Through Mountains and Seas山海一程Ancient Romance333k WordsCompleted Su Yuan was born into the Great Sheng Dynasty, where people prized slender figures. But when she grew up, she was a voluptuous beauty, which made it difficult for her to find a husband. Then, after being selected as a concubine, she was assigned to Prince Qin, Pei Jingheng. Since she was here, she decided to make the best of it. Su Yuan planned to shut the door and live a quiet life of her own. She hadn't expected Pei Jingheng to be handsome and perceptive, with no prejudice against her, even th 26.5kReads9.1Score2.3kShelves

    Reader note

    The battle between the women is fierce and ruthless; they show no mercy and are merciless when dealing with rivals. In contrast, the male protagonist, the emperor, appears exceptionally indecisive and hesitant, taking no action against the murderers of his child and their family.

35. 35 咸 Deep Spring at Xianfu Palace 咸福春深 She Xiang蔎香Ancient Romance789k WordsOngoing On the summer solstice of the twenty-fifth year of the Qiansheng era, the Qiansheng Emperor died at the Hall of Tranquil Waves in the Old Summer Palace. In the chaos that followed, the struggle over the succession erupted, throwing everyone into a state of panic. The Empress issued an edict declaring, “The fourth prince, Prince Jing, is filial, intelligent, and kindhearted,” and enthroned him as emperor. Thus began the Qian Kun era... From then on, Qian Kun became embroiled in a web of intrigue 1Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a pure palace intrigue novel, devoid of any romantic subplots. The author's writing is excellent, rich in allusions and classical references, making it a particularly captivating read.

36. 36 浮 The Tale of Floating and Sinking 浮沉传 Miss Liangzi凉子姑娘Ancient Romance1.7M WordsCompleted [Household and palace intrigue + play the pig to eat the tiger + revenge and a comeback] A heroine in the vein of The Story of Minglan, this acclaimed historical domestic-intrigue novel has racked up over ten million plays as an audio drama. For a story that understands reason and human nature, read The Tale of Fushen! Her father shows her no affection, her mother dies a tragic death, her stepmother spoils her rotten, and her half-sister schemes against her. In this treacherous household, watch 6.9kReads9.2Score1.1kShelves

    Reader note

    The story focuses on power struggles within a wealthy family. The female protagonist is similar to the one in "The Story of Minglan." She is pampered to death by her stepmother, framed by her half-sister, disfigured, and exiled to a manor. There, she begins her journey of feigning weakness to outwit others. Upon her return, she stirs up trouble and grows from an illiterate young lady in a secluded household into a duke's wife. The story is quite long.

37. 37 为 The Professional Ethics of a Concubine 为妾的职业操守 Lin Wanzi林丸子Ancient Romance1.4M WordsCompleted [Main Story Complete] Ye Qingzhi, an overworked office drone, transmigrates into the body of a concubine in the Jiangyang Marquis’s household. Since she’s here, she might as well go crazy. Being a concubine is just changing workplaces. She doesn’t need to get emotionally involved. She can simply treat herself like a tool. Ye Qingzhi’s career goal: convince both the marquis and the principal wife to take responsibility for her and protect her. Ye Qingzhi’s workplace motto: Life is short. We’re al 31.5kReads9.4Score3.7kShelves
38. 38 宫 Palace Beauty 宫姝 Clear Summer Xixi清夏兮兮Ancient Romance631k WordsCompleted She dared not love too deeply, afraid it would all turn out to be nothing but a dream. She thought that once she entered the imperial palace, she would be like the other consorts, scheming every day to win the emperor's favor; She thought that once she entered the imperial palace, she would be like the other consorts, with invisible blood staining her hands; She thought that once she entered the imperial palace, she would be like the other consorts. In the end, it was only what she had imagined. 8.3kReads9.2Score953Shelves

    Reader note

    The first and fourth books are heartwarming within the palace intrigue genre, featuring distinct personalities among the female characters, each with their own regrets, and each character's fate is inevitable. The second book is similar to "Empresses in the Palace," with many plot points mirroring the television adaptation. The third book is a slow-burn story, following the heroine's gradual rise to the position of Empress.

39. 39 谢 Empress of the Xie Family 谢家皇后 Song of the Yue People越人歌Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted In her first year in the palace, she is a Talented Lady. In her fifth, she is a Jieyu. In her tenth, she wants to become empress. As empress, she can hold on to everything she treasures and keep it from being taken away. She can protect herself and her child, and she can... stay by his side. This is a road with only one direction: take a single step back, and all will be lost. The bright yellow ceremonial parasol moves forward, and the emperor's procession slowly enters the city gate. A yellow p 8.8kReads9.2Score1.1kShelves
40. 40 行 Late in the Day 行止晚 Zhi Er织尔Ancient Romance138k WordsCompleted [Devoted love + emperor and empress + tragic palace romance] 145,000 readers gave it top ratings, and countless readers cried their way through it! The year’s breakout historical romance, a heartache readers can’t forget. A clear-eyed, sweet empress VS a proud emperor whose love never wavers. Born into the imperial family, how can everything ever go as you wish? May we remain together forever, and may I keep you safe and at peace. A gentleman’s word is his bond. In a daze, I saw the moon rise. 25.7kReads9.6Score3.3kShelves
41. 41 在 A Hundred Ways to Win the Emperor's Heart in the Harem 在后宫征服皇帝的一百个技巧 Cai Wangwang菜汪汪Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Ever since entering the palace, Yun Li has become a shameless schemer. Two-faced and insincere, she puts on an act every day. When dealing with the emperor’s favorite consort, she tears into her until she’s furious, then clutches her chest with a wounded look and says, “I’m so envious that His Majesty dotes on you.” When someone tries to frame her, she casually slaps them, then bursts into tears. “Why would you treat a kind person like me this way?” When speaking with the empress, she nods absen 12.3kReads9.5Score1.4kShelves

    Reader note

    🌷This palace intrigue novel quite fits the author's requirements! 🔥Highly rated and completed! ✨It doesn't feature only one woman in the harem, but the male lead falls in love with the female lead later on, though he doesn't dismantle the entire harem for her. ✨The female lead remains clear-headed throughout (she possesses a modern soul). Given the historical context, she doesn't pursue a lifelong monogamous relationship with the emperor. ✨She knows that only by climbing the ranks in the harem can one thrive. She won't intentionally harm others, but she's not indifferent to being harmed; she'll engage in some scheming. Most importantly, I personally find palace intrigue novels where the male lead is virgin and dismantles the entire harem for the female lead too unrealistic. I don't understand or like that kind of thing, so warning: Male lead not virgin x Female virgin.

42. 42 撕 Tear Apart the Harem! Win Favor! She's a Lunatic, Who Dares Cross Her? 撕后宫！得恩宠！她是疯批谁敢惹 Cats Are Extra Sweet猫猫特别甜Ancient Romance683k WordsCompleted [Palace Intrigue Only + Concubine-born Daughter + Reborn + Revenge + Everyone Is Evil + Wish-Fulfillment] [The story begins before the heroine enters the palace] [The emperor favors no one at first, and the heroine doesn’t fall in love] Jiang Shiying had died once. She died in childbirth, after her own elder sister had her killed to keep the baby. Reborn, she had made up her mind: she would enter the palace and get revenge, but she wouldn’t suffer! Not her stepmother or her elder sister, not eve 7.5kReads9.3Score952Shelves

    Reader note

    The female lead never falls in love with the emperor; she's clear-headed and intelligent. The plot is fast-paced and intricately linked, with all the conspiracies and intrigues resolved logically. This is the first book I've ever finished reading, and I highly recommend it.

43. 43 灭 After the Crown Princess Conceives Twins, the Crown Prince Favors His Beloved Concubine and Makes Her Empress 灭太子妃怀双胎，太子宠娇妾封后 Han Qingxue寒清雪Ancient Romance500k WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance. Not a virginal couple! + Clear-headed heroine gradually grows stronger in palace intrigue + Twins + Winning the Crown Prince’s heart, aiming for the empress’s throne] An Ruyan clutched her book of Thirty-Six Stratagems and set out to win over the tyrannical Crown Prince!!! An Ruyan was rescued by Prince Yan when she was robbed while visiting a temple. She had long been in love with him, but an unexpected incident made her see what a scumbag he was. Determined to 2.3kReads8.9Score235Shelves

    Reader note

    A story combining classical Chinese text, palace intrigue, and the protagonist's later exclusive favor—a must-read.

44. 44 帝 The Imperial Terrace's Charm: The Noble Consort Is Beautiful and Well-Behaved 帝台娇：贵妃娘娘她又美又乖 Mu Niannian慕年年Ancient Romance501k WordsCompleted [Harem intrigue + climbing the ranks and crushing the villains + doting romance. The male lead knows his own heart. He'll devote himself to her alone later on.] [The heroine rises through the ranks quickly at first, then more slowly later on.] [The heroine comes from a noble family, is the most beautiful woman in the harem, and already has two adorable children. The Emperor falls for her first and favors her from early on, before devoting himself to her alone in the middle and later parts.] By a 20.2kReads9.4Score2kShelves
45. 45 娘 The Empress Doesn't Fight for Favor, the Emperor Crowns Her Empress 娘娘不宫斗，帝王捧上后位 Breezy Giggles凉风嘻嘻Ancient Romance293k WordsCompleted [A Dark, Unhinged Emperor vs. A Wild and Alluring Consort: Not a Pure Romance, but Full of Devotion, Thrills, and Sweetness!] Jiang Shu transmigrates into the harem of a tyrant, becoming an obscure Noble Lady. She thinks she’ll just keep her head down in the palace until old age. But then, to survive, she throws herself into the tyrant’s arms. The emperor adores her beyond measure! He clears out his entire harem for her and puts her on the throne as empress. From then on, their life as emperor a 1.3kReads9.1Score136Shelves
46. 46 重 Reborn, the Consort Runs Wild in the Harem 重生后，娘娘在后宫横着发疯 Kong Jiang's Spicy Kimchi Soup空绛的辣白菜汤Ancient Romance360k WordsCompleted [A heroine focused on building her career, not falling in love!!!] In her previous life, Xuan Zhi had grand ambitions, but kept her promise and never crossed the line. In the end, her family was destroyed, her young son died, and she met a terrible end. She failed to hold on to everything she wanted to protect. Her resentment and regret were so deep that her spirit lingered in the vast imperial palace, watching her enemies live carefree lives without facing any consequences. Xuan Zhi's resentmen 257Reads8.7Score—Shelves
47. 47 挺 I Died Pregnant, and After Being Reborn, My Ex-Husband's Whole Family Gets Sent to the Crematorium 挺孕肚惨死，重生前夫全家火葬场 The Fifteenth Moon Is June十五月是六月Ancient Romance508k WordsCompleted [Fake and real heiresses + medical skills + groveling ex + extremely satisfying face-slapping + the crown prince returns from the dead and spoils her rotten!] After the crown prince died in battle, the emperor personally betrothed Xie Yunyan, his childhood fiancée, to Song Huaizhi, the top scholar of that year's imperial exams. But after they married, she learned that he had a mistress he loved more than life itself. The mistress refused to be a concubine and died in a fire. Song Huaizhi came to 14.1kReads9.1Score893Shelves
48. 48 成 What on Earth Is This? Complete in Two Volumes (The Original Novel Behind the Hit Drama Starring Wang Churan and Cheng Lei) 成何体统：全二册（王楚然、丞磊主演热播影视剧原著） Qi Yingjun七英俊Anime Fanfiction314k WordsCompleted What is it like to transmigrate into a web novel and become the tyrant's bedmate? After a few simple calculations, Yu Wanyin reached a conclusion: she would have to find another way. In this story full of villains, if she wanted to carve out a path to survival, she had to become the biggest villain of all. First, help the tyrant take down Prince Duan, then take down the tyrant and become empress herself. But when she met the tyrant and carefully considered the strange sense of familiarity in his 40.3kReads9.7Score6.3kShelves

    Reader note

    There's a reason for the high scores.

49. 49 满 My Whole Family Are Cannon Fodder, but After They Read My Mind, They Rebel 满门炮灰读我心后，全家造反了 I Really Love Little Crabs超爱小螃蟹Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Physical edition of "Claiming the Pearl 2" goes on presale October 17 at 7:30 p.m.] [Mind reading + System + adored by the whole family + transmigrate into a book + play the pig to eat the tiger] Qiao Jiaojiao had accumulated so much virtue in her past life that the Old King of Hell granted her a rebirth with all her memories intact, plus a golden finger: a Virtue Points Shop. Qiao Jiaojiao was thrilled to start her new life, only to discover she hadn't been reborn at all. She'd transmigrated i 122.5kReads9.7Score13.8kShelves
50. 50 穿 Reborn as the Cannon-Fodder Original Wife of a Mad Power-Hungry Minister 穿成疯批权臣的炮灰原配 Bright Lantern灯旺旺Ancient Romance707k WordsCompleted [Farming + Transmigrate into a Book + Sweet Romance] Witty, scheming girl vs. lovesick, obsessive powerbroker Xin Yueying transmigrates into a book, landing in an old-fashioned, preachy novel as the wicked wife of the deranged, obsessive second male lead. Shen Qingqi is the novel’s deranged, villainous male character. Born into a family of famed generals, he was imprisoned alongside the Shen family after his father offended powerful nobles. He suffered terribly in prison and was left with crippl 29.7kReads9.3Score10.3kShelves

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