Public-Sector Workplace Fiction, Down-to-Earth and Highly Rated, Any Family Background for the Leads 体制内+职场文+接地气+高分，男女主家庭背景不限

1. 1 安 Where An Lan Finds Her Home, the Sun Shines Warmly 安澜归处是暖阳 Jiang Mufeng Loves Bacon爱吃培根的姜木风Modern Romance444k WordsCompleted Print edition publication signed! [Calculating, mature powerhouse VS sweet, charming primary school teacher] + [Sweet romance] + [Age gap] + [Love at first sight] + [Powerful man bows to love] Before the new school year began, primary school teacher Zhou Nuan was told that a new student would be joining her class, and that the child's father was the newcomer, Shi Anlan, a powerful figure. Zhou Nuan never expected that an ordinary home visit would end with Shi personally seeing them off, and the 23.9kReads8.8Score2.4k14d adds

   Reader note

   Try these two books; both are romance novels set within the system. The male lead is the deputy secretary of the municipal party committee and mayor, who falls in love at first sight with the female lead, a newcomer to the workplace. He then deliberately approaches her, taking steps carefully to support her while also finding sweet love in the process.

2. 2 说 We Agreed to Pretend to Be a Couple, So Why Is the Big Shot Taking It Seriously? 说好假扮情侣，大佬怎么当真了？ Jiang Mufeng Loves Bacon爱吃培根的姜木风Modern Romance570k WordsCompleted Lin Xi is a college student about to graduate, torn between staying in Hu City to build a career and returning to her hometown to take the civil service exam. On one side is her boyfriend, who is doing everything he can to persuade her to stay. On the other are her parents, who want her to go home and take the exam. While wrestling with the decision, she meets Ji Shichuan, a senior local official from her hometown, at an exhibition, and they become running buddies. From the perspective of a city 190.5kReads9.1Score28k14d adds
3. 3 霖 Lin Meets Clear Creek 霖见清溪 Long River, Distant Song长河远歌Modern Romance1.2M WordsCompleted This book is also known as: Before I Met You, I Never Knew What It Meant to Fall [Steady, in-control man & clear-eyed beauty] | Two strong leads | One-on-one romance | Deep, restrained love | Ten-year age gap | Angst before the sweetness | An overwhelming sense of security | [Blurb] After seven years of love ended in heartbreak, Lin Qingxi chose to hide every sharp edge and turn herself into the most inconspicuous shadow at work. She thought that if she stayed quiet enough, she could avoid eve 13.8kReads8.8Score1.8k14d adds

   Reader note

   I recommend this completed novel; it's down-to-earth and features a clear-headed female protagonist.

4. 4 潮 Tidal Boundaries 潮汐界限 Milky Candy Puff奶糖酥Modern Romance348k WordsCompleted [The print edition is now available, published under the title Tidal Boundaries] There were two unspoken sayings around the office building: First, when Zhou Yushen's car passed Guanfujie, even the snow on the ground would sensibly melt away a little. Second, he never let his schedule stop for anyone. Only later did Wei Xi learn that both sayings were wrong. * At an industry forum, Wei Xi was unexpectedly called up to sit in the front row. With every gaze fixed on her, she spoke quickly and prec 55.6kReads9.4Score7.3k14d adds

   Reader note

   The only two novels about government officials that Tomato has ever read, and they're both good.

5. 5 落 Rain Falls, Tides Rise 落雨生潮 Yan Nanfei晏楠菲Modern Romance520k WordsCompleted [Older, Powerful Man] & [Female Graduate Student] [Ten-Year Age Gap] + [Career Growth] + [Guiding Lover] + [Slow-Burn Romance] + [Devoted Love] + [Both Pure] Song Yuheng first met Wen Zhaoyu at an award ceremony. He was there to present an award, and she was an outstanding graduate. He handed her the certificate and shook her hand. “Wen Zhaoyu, you’re exceptional.” She smiled brightly. “Thank you for your encouragement.” The rain fell in torrents that night. The man trapped her by the window. 25.2kReads9.2Score3k14d adds
6. 6 雪 Snowfields and Seaside City: A Female Cadre from the Sanmen Has Her Springtime Too 雪域与海城：三门女干部也有春天 Three Wonders, Auspicious Gathering Pattern三奇嘉会格Modern Romance921k WordsCompleted Su Man was on top from the start, beginning her career as a deputy section chief, only to plummet to rock bottom at breakneck speed. Her new boss sent her to a grassroots office, where she got a harsh lesson in the art of human relationships. On her journey back from rock bottom, she had the ever-present strategist Luo Ziqing by her side, offering advice and teaching her how the official world operates. She also had Ji Zizhou, a highly skilled career mentor who protected her from the open and hi 15.9kReads9.4Score1.7k14d adds

   Reader note

   Here are a few good novels about the government system; you can check them out if you're interested.

7. 7 悦 Eager to Leap 悦跃欲试 Ye Shu晔殊Modern Romance297k WordsCompleted [Mutual firsts, one-on-one romance, lighthearted comedy, childhood sweethearts, rekindled love] After five years apart, her ex-boyfriend became her client. Five years ago, she had to watch his every mood just to get by. Five years later, even her boss had to do the same if they wanted to keep their jobs. Life is hard. 15.3kReads9.3Score1.3k14d adds
8. 8 一 Gu Jiu Si's First Book 一顾九思的第1本书 At First Glance, Nine Thoughts一顾九思Modern Romance386k WordsCompleted [Dual Civil-Service Careers + Both Leads Are Each Other’s First Love + Secretly in Love with Each Other + Sweet Romance] The male and female leads are each other’s first love. Five years ago, a misunderstanding kept them apart. Five years later, he has become a district Party committee secretary, while she is an ordinary civil servant in a township under his jurisdiction. She had planned to live out a quiet, ordinary life, but he is determined to take her into his arms, no matter what. You don’t 10.9kReads9.3Score1.2k14d adds
9. 9 偏 The Snow-Soft Flower Is Spoiled by Everyone 偏宠雪柔花 Everything Is About Romance风月都相关Modern Romance558k WordsCompleted A composed, imposing senior official × a pure, stunning academic beauty. Height gap + age gap + status gap, with intense push and pull. [Song Qingchen & Li Man] Originally titled “Drowning in His Palm” [In a nutshell] Breaking free from the cocoon hurts, but embracing spring is beautiful. He gave her a ticket into the pyramid; she worked hard to turn it into her trump card. Song Qingchen is the quintessential son of a distinguished family: a seasoned, dignified official, mature and stead 63.1kReads9.4Score7.7k14d adds
10. 10 青 Where the Green Mountains Fade Into the Distance 青山归杳处 Book in the Mirror镜中书Modern Romance307k WordsCompleted [Steady, divorced senior leader X gentle, ambitious junior employee; age gap; sweet romance] At first, faced with a powerful, influential figure, Gu Yao feels both intimidated and awed. Then one day, she gets drunk and accidentally ends up in his car, and everything begins to change... P.S. The male lead’s first marriage was in name only. 86.9kReads9.4Score11.3k14d adds
11. 11 顾 Mr. Gu's Perfect Little Romance 顾先生的小圆满 Mu Ziyu Qiao牧子羽樵Modern Romance436k WordsCompleted [Big Tech content moderator vs. cold, calculating official from an elite family] [High-ranking official romance + five-year age gap + both leads are each other’s first and only + sweet romance + the powerful one bows to love] The thing workplace newcomer Li Xiaoman regrets most is making a mistake while screening explicit content. The cold, fearsome section chief Gu Yanshen comes to the company to oversee a cleanup. Before that, the two had an accidental one-night stand ₍ᐢ..ᐢ₎ ༘♡ ₍ᐢ..ᐢ₎ ༘♡ She k 2kReads7.7Score12814d adds

    Reader note

    I'll recommend it myself. It perfectly meets the requirements.

12. 12 霸 The Dominating Workplace Big Shot and the Newly Widowed Woman 霸道的职场大佬，新寡的她 Furiously Opposed炸毛对对Modern Romance1.6M WordsCompleted Her husband died unexpectedly, leaving her a new widow whom everyone avoided. She had planned to spend the rest of her life in peace, but accidentally fell into the arms of the most powerful man in the city. He was a ruthless, cold-hearted business tycoon who could make or break anyone, and had no interest in women. Yet with her, he pursued her at every turn and kept her firmly by his side: “From now on, your body and your heart belong to me alone.” Everyone urged her to remain faithful to her l 19.4kReads8.7Score2.4k14d adds

    Reader note

    I'm following the first book! Come check it out, it's absolutely amazing! An old house catches fire, two people who don't know how to love each other end up hurting each other [smirk].

13. 13 笔 A Writer’s Brush Meets the Political Arena 笔尖遇政途 Brave Hero, Wait Up 1990壮士留步1990Modern Romance183k WordsCompleted A promising 29-year-old district Party committee secretary-general × a freshly graduated intern reporter When they first meet, she looks at the man in the administrative jacket. He seems only twenty-five or twenty-six, young enough to be a generation below the bureau chiefs standing nearby. Yet his manner is perfectly composed, and he has a steadiness and wisdom beyond his years. With the air of someone accustomed to authority, he asks her supervisor, “What’s this young colleague’s name?” He tea 2.3kReads—Score23514d adds

    Reader note

    This novel is the closest to real life within the system. The male protagonist, Cheng Lixin, graduated from a prestigious university and was once a secretary to a high-ranking leader. At 29, he became the secretary-general of the district committee. Young, handsome, refined, and shrewd, he also possesses the aura of someone in power. The female protagonist, Jiang Yifan, starts as an intern reporter and later becomes a well-known journalist in the industry. Let's see them meet at the top.

14. 14 玫 Roses and Green Pines 玫瑰与青松 Mantou Is Great馒头很好Modern Romance501k WordsCompleted [The print edition is now available on major platforms] [Bonus chapters complete] [Steadfast, fatherly political heavyweight × dazzling, rebellious beauty] [Long-planned romance / marriage first, love later + powerful family background + well-matched families + 12-year age gap + both virgins + sweet romance] Fang Yun is a dazzling, bold rising star in the legal world. In front of others, she’s a “good girl.” It’s all an act! After her scumbag ex cheats on her, she dumps him without hesitation an 23.9kReads9.0Score3k14d adds

    Reader note

    A super engaging novel set within the system, featuring a female protagonist's growth and the male protagonist's unwavering support: "Within the rules, I'll do my best; outside the rules, I'll build a wall for you."

15. 15 前 Ex-Husband, Stay Out of My Way and Don't Ruin My Career 前夫请靠边，别耽误我仕途 Three Wonders, Auspicious Gathering Pattern三奇嘉会格Modern Romance1.6M WordsCompleted [A Powerful Female Lead in Government] Her husband had an affair. Zhang Huiyan wasted no time turning him into her ex-husband. Isn’t a handsome government official five years younger than her and a big shot in the system four years older than her more appealing than her ex? But no man is as appealing as a career. When it comes to climbing the career ladder, they can only play supporting roles. I’m going to climb to the top. Nobody is going to stop me! People say women in government have to slee 7.1kReads9.2Score81214d adds
16. 16 当 When the Coin Is Tossed 当硬币抛起 The Fawn Who Flips Coins抛硬币的小鹿Modern Romance134k WordsCompleted [Dual careers, a reunion after years apart, old flames rekindled, powerful families, a seventeen-year age gap, the powerful man lowering his head for love, the underdog bravely pursuing love, a guiding male leader x a growing female subordinate] Twelve years ago, they first met. She thought: Men really are at their best at forty. He smiled softly: A young girl who's never been through much, a blank sheet of paper. Twelve years later, they met again. She blushed, her heart racing: A Ferrari is st 825Reads—Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    Within a dual-system organization, with a 17-year age gap, the superior bows down for love, while the subordinate bravely faces love alone.

17. 17 红 Within and Beyond the Red Walls, Spring Breeze Enters the Game 红墙内外，春风入局 Momo's Little Words墨墨小语Modern Romance521k WordsCompleted [Older, Powerful Man] [Age Gap] [Junior Clerk] [Career Growth] [Guiding Lover] [Sweet Romance] One chance encounter, one moment of curiosity, and one... At some point, everything began to change. 58.6kReads8.5Score4.3k14d adds

    Reader note

    This is a book you can read again and again! It's incredibly good and worth rereading. Even as a seasoned bookworm, I was completely captivated by this book, even staying up all night to finish it. A must-read!

18. 18 腹 The Cunning Tycoon: My Aloof Boss's Tender Trap 腹黑大佬：高冷领导的温柔陷阱 Momo's Little Words墨墨小语Modern Romance219k WordsCompleted [Workplace drama in the public sector + age gap + forceful love that later becomes passionate devotion + secret crush turned real + romantic tension + career growth.] After graduating, Shiqing takes the civil service exam, never imagining she would end up working under Lu Tingyuan, her best friend's older brother. Even more surprisingly, the icy, imposing man who had intimidated her ever since their school days has apparently been watching her all along! After an accidental drunken encounter, he 14.8kReads8.4Score1.3k14d adds

    Reader note

    🧶🐱Don't let the ratings hold you back!! High-ranking official + older man + intellectual romance + both are virgins + calculating + political bigwig within the system + junior staff member!! First book: The day she woke up in the ICU, auditing elite Lin Yao decided to throw away her KPIs, take the civil service exam, and work regular hours. She printed documents, organized files, and observed the rules within the system, discovering that life inside and outside the red walls was like a walled city. Until the new secretary, Zhou Yanshen, overheard her making a professional phone call in the corridor. From then on, job transfers, overtime, and work guidance took turns unfolding. She thought she was doomed, but discovered that the calculating man had already laid a trap for her—"You can refuse, but I won't accept rejection." When the aloof secretary sheds his disguise, when the young woman is forced into a fierce struggle, in this game that begins with curiosity, is captivated by talent, and ultimately won't end well, who will fall first? [OK][OK]

19. 19 误 Falling Into My Boss’s Favor: Qingzi’s Heartfelt Story 误入领导心尖：清姿叙心 Momo's Little Words墨墨小语Modern Romance264k WordsCompleted 19.9kReads8.8Score1.5k14d adds
20. 20 军 Blazing Sun, Military Love 军恋炽阳 Qi Shang琦尚Modern Romance464k WordsCompleted A slow-burn romance / Sweet romance / Eight-year age gap Song Yanci is a special forces officer in the Rocket Force. A refined, gentle man, he has become detached from all matters of the heart amid the monotonous life in the military. During a mission, a comrade-in-arms died on the battlefield, and Song Yanci adopted his young son. Su Yan is a homeroom teacher at a school for military families. Gentle and quiet, she shut her heart away after her college boyfriend left her to study abroad. Son 4.1kReads7.7Score44514d adds

    Reader note

    Both books are military-themed, but their styles are slightly different. The first book is about a slow and steady love, with an older man leading the relationship, while the second book is about a soldier going undercover.

21. 21 极 Love on the Front Lines 极限军恋 Qi Shang琦尚Modern Romance396k WordsCompleted I wanted to add a little sweetness to the lives of the nameless heroes who move unseen through the night. Even though real life is cruel, I hope they can taste something sweet in these stories. In the darkness, they conceal their devotion; tempered by the flames of battle, their true hearts shine through. Undercover agent Song Ze, warm and gentlemanly, holds fast to his mission amid the fog. The tenderness of Dan Ning, a literary young woman, is the only light in his long, endless nights; The mu 1.1kReads—Score10414d adds
22. 22 官 The Road to Power: A Clash of Ambition and Desire 官途从权欲交锋开始 Little Lotus Breeze小荷风Urban1.7M WordsOngoing [Political Revenge] + [Career Advancement] + [Alliances of Mutual Interest] + [Romantic Entanglements] + [Political Scheming and Wits] + [Multiple Heroines] + [Ensemble Cast] [The male lead keeps a low profile without being creepy early on, reveals his sharp edge with a roguish charm in the middle, and takes revenge on all his enemies later.] Wang Maoyuan is a "golden phoenix" who flew out of the countryside. The year he graduated from college, he passed the civil service exam and joined the la 18.2kReads7.7Score1.2k14d adds

    Reader note

    This is an excellent novel that realistically portrays the lives of officials; it is highly recommended and worth reading.

23. 23 林 Team Leader Lin's Beloved Wife 林组长的心尖娇妻 Idle Fish Passerby A, B, C, and D闲鱼路人甲乙丙丁Modern Romance572k WordsCompleted [Completed, dive right in] Lin Zhizhou, a levelheaded and prudent leader of the inspection team with a keen eye for justice, and Shen Tinglan, an optimistic, confident, kindhearted party girl. From the male lead's perspective: love at first sight. From the female lead's perspective: she had been plotting it all along. One day, Shen Tinglan turned back and teased Lin Zhizhou, calling him a “gentleman.” The man furrowed his brows slightly and lowered his voice. “What does that mean?” Shen Ting 9kReads9.2Score1.2k14d adds

    Reader note

    Both are workplace romance novels set within the public sector, featuring protagonists from families with different backgrounds but also characterized by unrequited love and sweet romance.

24. 24 才 I Refuse to Fall for the Big Boss 才不要和大领导谈恋爱 A Little Cup of Winec一杯小酒cModern Romance245k WordsOngoing Forced love + love at first sight + doting romance + happy ending + obsessive hero + workplace romance + powerful families Su Niannian is new to the workplace, as blank as an unpainted sheet of paper. On her first day, she takes the wrong elevator and stumbles, in a panic, into a meeting of senior leaders. Her documents scatter across the floor. In the sudden silence, the stern-faced man at the head of the table slowly raises his eyes. One glance from him, and his silent authority sends her fle 1.5kReads6.3Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    This is beautiful.

25. 25 暮 Gentle as Twilight, I Only Want You 暮色温柔，偏爱你 Ink m墨色mModern Romance209k WordsOngoing One chance collision at dusk brings Su Wanxing into Shen Zhiyan's world, completely disrupting his unchanging life. He is a cold, aloof business tycoon who controls everything, a rule-maker everyone fears. She is an insignificant, ordinary girl, a glimmer of starlight that unexpectedly enters his sight. Everyone knows Mr. Shen is detached and ascetic, and never makes exceptions for anyone. But when he meets Su Wanxing, every boundary gives way again and again, and every bit of tenderness is re 18Reads—Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    A girl unexpectedly encounters a cold and aloof tycoon, but they don't exchange contact information. They meet again at a job interview, where she learns of his immense power and influence. He doesn't mind her humble origins, carefully protecting her, avoiding all trouble, quietly accompanying her, and their relationship slowly grows closer.

26. 26 吾 My County Magistrate Boyfriend Is Growing Up 吾家县长男友初长成 Wan Qian, Who Loves Cantonese Soup爱吃广府汤的万千帝主Modern Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Rural revitalization · Workplace maneuvering · Intellectual romance · Family warmth] [Healing] [A gentle, steady pace] [Leaves a lasting impression] [Public sector] [Contemporary realism] Here, you’ll find: √ How a highly intelligent male and female lead pursue their careers while falling in love √ Solid, compelling depictions of rural revitalization and the political landscape √ Warm, witty, and insightful family life and intergenerational communication √ The respectful, restrained, profound 1.5kReads8.0Score14614d adds

    Reader note

    It's a very down-to-earth story about working within the system, combining the workplace with daily life.

27. 27 机 The Female Official 机关女干部 Xiaoxiao Gou'er Lingdang晓晓狗儿铃当Modern Romance1.5M WordsOngoing A serious novel about officialdom that faces reality and holds firm to its principles. There's no simplistic division between “black and white,” only the real compromises and choices of life within the system. Here you'll find solid engineering details, meticulous criminal investigations, moving relationships, and steadfast faith. The story follows Lin Ruxi and Shen Chan as they work side by side to break through deadlocks and uphold justice amid the politics, reform, and personal struggles of Q 7.9kReads7.9Score61214d adds
28. 28 女 The Female Police Chief’s Shocking Case 女局长之惊天大案 Cyanide Murmurs氰呓语Urban1.5M WordsOngoing This novel seamlessly blends political intrigue, criminal investigation and suspense, and realist literature. Liu Shuyun is caught in an astonishing scheme. It is a contest with no equal! Three factions are vying for power on this island. There is an underground hangar spanning five levels, and a “teacher” who has never shown their face. Gao Han’s investigation goes beyond clearing his fiancée’s name. He must also uncover the truth behind his father’s “fake death.” As the blades of political int 16.8kReads8.1Score1.1k14d adds
29. 29 重 Restarting Life on the Road to Success 重启之人生青云路 Cyanide Murmurs氰呓语Urban550k WordsCompleted Actually, every novel is a portrayal of real life! Whether what you watch or read is... yourself!... I hope you see yourself! 1.1kReads7.3Score10714d adds
30. 30 权 The Pinnacle of Power: The Crackdown on Organized Crime 权力巅峰之破局者：扫黑风暴 Zhang Dali, Bursting with Bullish Energy牛气冲天的张大力Urban190k WordsCompleted Wang Xiaolin is greeted with a carefully orchestrated welcome gift! She is forced to investigate the Old Town Redevelopment Project herself. As the investigation deepens, the clues point to her secret boyfriend, his mother, and the best friend she has had for twenty years. A game of intrigue that began with a conspiracy. 543Reads—Score—14d adds
31. 31 官 True Love in the Halls of Power 官场有真情 Zhang Dali, Bursting with Bullish Energy牛气冲天的张大力Modern Romance158k WordsCompleted Smack! A loud slap. I covered my cheek and stared, stunned, at the impossibly handsome man in front of me. Sharp brows, bright eyes, abs faintly visible, broad shoulders and a narrow waist. At that moment, he was covering his lower half with a quilt and glaring at me furiously. Fuzzy images flashed through my mind: a bar, heartbreak, drinking to drown my sorrows. And then... Holy crap, what a score! “Miss, let me explain!” he said nervously. I tried to suppress the grin tugging at my lips and p 226Reads—Score—14d adds
32. 32 淮 Dawn Ferry on the Huai River 淮水晓渡 Mo Zhaoying墨昭荧Modern Romance217k WordsCompleted Why did we break up? “My mom said you don’t work in government.” Xiao Xiao was speechless. She never thought the trope of “passing the exam, then dumping your sweetheart” would happen to her. “I can pass it too.” A year later, she started working at the district science and technology bureau. Meeting Jiang Huaixu was the biggest surprise of her life. At first, she thought it was an unrequited love that would go nowhere. Only later did she learn that, to win her over, he had even considered marry 6kReads8.6Score55514d adds

    Reader note

    I recommend these books

33. 33 他 He Seems to Be Sick 他好像有病 Mo Zhaoying墨昭荧Modern Romance333k WordsCompleted [Powerful families] + [older man] + [a man in a position of power bows to love] + [both virgins] Wen Sheng is a criminal profiler who can solve the world's most difficult cases, but she can't break down the wall around her own heart. When she meets Lu Zheng'an, she observes him from a professional perspective and decides he's got issues. In the end, though, he's the one who helps her smash down the wall around her heart. He tells her, “When you encounter a case, you can step into it, but you mus 22.3kReads8.9Score2.5k14d adds
34. 34 已 Married, Waiting to Ripen 已婚待熟 Mo Zhaoying墨昭荧Modern Romance214k WordsCompleted Listen up, don't read 🙈 Powerful family + wealthy clan + love after marriage A dazzling socialite + a veteran high-ranking official On their blind date, Su Mo was quite satisfied with Gu Yi'an. He looked decent and would do. Gu Yi'an wasn't very satisfied with Su Mo. She was a wealthy heiress, spoiled and troublesome. He didn't want to take her on. But one wanted an empire, and the other wanted that position. They each got what they needed, with a five-year agreement. Then Gu Yi'an realized he w 10.7kReads6.5Score1.2k14d adds
35. 35 长 There’s No Evening Breeze on Changning Street 长宁街没有晚风 Anana Ya阿娜娜呀Modern Romance264k WordsCompleted [Slow-paced, full of romantic tension] Stay on Changning Street long enough, and some rules spread without anyone having to spell them out. For example, Lu Yanzhou’s car never stops where it shouldn’t. For example, his schedule never leaves room for the words “while you’re at it.” Shen Moning later decided that these two things were probably the least accurate pieces of information in the whole compound. 6.8kReads7.4Score76714d adds
36. 36 闪 A Flash Marriage to a Wealthy, Sickly Puppy; Leveling Up and Beating Monsters 闪婚豪门病娇小奶狗，升级打怪 Xun Jue Yizhuo逊珏逸卓Modern Romance698k WordsCompleted Her stingy boyfriend of six years invited her to dinner at a fancy restaurant. He wasn’t proposing. He was breaking up with her. Afraid of wasting the expensive red wine, the heroine drank the whole bottle by herself. And then… She told the male lead, “You’re so handsome! Marry me!” He replied, “Okay! Once you’re sober tomorrow, we’ll go register our marriage.” When she sobered up, the heroine regretted it. Because he was five years younger than her and still in school. But the male lead 2.2kReads9.1Score20514d adds

    Reader note

    The female protagonist works within the system as a civil servant.

37. 37 官 Officialdom: Starting by Slapping My Boss Twice 官锋：从打领导两巴掌开始 Little Lotus Breeze小荷风Urban1.4M WordsOngoing Made the scapegoat from the start? Pushed to the margins, with my future and my life ruined? Fine, I’ll remember this. There’s plenty of time to settle the score. My girlfriend breaks up with me, and my love life falls apart. What was I even here for? Fine, I’ll set you free. Don’t regret it. I turn around with power in my hands and return. Li Rui laughs aloud. Those who hurt and slandered me will all pay the price. 29.5kReads8.3Score2.4k14d adds

    Reader note

    I recommend these two novels about officialdom; they're even more engaging when read aloud!

38. 38 官 A Lucky Man in Officialdom, the Leader's Trusted Aide 官场幸运儿，领导身边的红人 Top Wage Slave头号打工仔Urban1.8M WordsOngoing This is a political intrigue novel set in local government. When the young Qin Feng is appointed in a crisis through his family's connections and parachuted into Nanping County, he is met not with welcoming applause, but with constant exclusion and covert obstruction from all sides. Every step he takes is like walking on the edge of a blade. As power, money, and personal ties weave together into a web, some choose to go along with the corruption, while others swim against the current. Faced with 53.3kReads8.9Score4.2k14d adds

    Reader note

    Recommended, a worthwhile book to read.

39. 39 穿 Transported to 1980: I Have an Iron Rice Bowl from the Start 穿到1980，开局就有铁饭碗 Tiramisu提米拉苏Modern Romance1.3M WordsOngoing [A career-focused heroine with a government job + 90% career storyline + a male lead who is weaker than the female lead] Lin Ruxin, from 2026, transmigrates into the body of Lin Ruxin in 1981. The original owner was not only ungrateful, but also hopelessly lovesick. As one of the first college graduates, she should have focused on her career, but instead devoted all her attention to men. Lin Ruxin can't stand it. Watch her kick her scumbag boyfriend to the curb and leave her coworkers stunned. W 35.7kReads8.7Score3.6k14d adds

    Reader note

    [Add one to bookshelf][Add one to bookshelf][Add one to bookshelf][Add one to bookshelf][Add one to bookshelf]

40. 40 穿 Transmigrating to the 1970s: The One-Shot System Takes Me to New Heights 穿越七零：秒杀系统带我飞 Mu Ran9牧然9Modern Romance1.4M WordsOngoing The rating just came out, so it’ll go up later! 1970: I Have a Golden Finger and a Maxed-Out Family Ding! Your limited-time flash-sale System has been bound! Wen Jingshu, an English major in graduate school in 2024, was halfway through studying for the civil service exam when she transmigrated. When she woke up, she’d become a graduate student in trade and economics in 1970. Her father was a police bureau chief, her mother a section chief at the agricultural bureau, her eldest brother a battalio 64.7kReads8.5Score8.1k14d adds
41. 41 领 The Boss Plays His Moves One by One 领导步步为营 Mr. Hanbao瀚堡先生Modern Romance452k WordsCompleted Government Official + Scheming Hero + Age Gap + Sweet Romance Autumn was in full swing on the campus of Jing University. Qin Baizhou, 35, had quietly arrived to take up his new post as Party Committee Secretary. Strict and disciplined, he was known throughout academia for his iron-fisted approach to scholarship. His transfer was recognition from his superiors of his abilities. One weekend, Qin Baizhou went alone to Moxiang Bookstore near campus to buy books on management. Through a gap between t 10kReads8.8Score1.2k14d adds
42. 42 裴 Mr. Pei Has Fallen for Her, and Miss Xuan Can’t Escape 裴先生已心动，宣小姐逃不掉 Mr. Hanbao瀚堡先生Modern Romance395k WordsCompleted Government circles + age gap + winning her back + sweet romance + well-matched families Pei Shuchen is the legitimate grandson of the Pei family’s third generation. His family is deeply rooted in government, and his mother comes from one of Shanghai’s prominent families. On the surface, he is a refined and urbane rising star in politics. Behind his gold-rimmed glasses is a pair of eyes that can see right through people. He speaks with humble courtesy but acts with ruthless decisiveness, earning 392Reads6.9Score10114d adds
43. 43 楚 Chu Huaixu, the Lost Little Daisy 楚淮序，弄丢的小雏菊 Mr. Hanbao瀚堡先生Modern Romance175k WordsCompleted Both leads work in the public sector + age gap + love at first sight • Chu Huaixu was hosting a symposium on arts education at universities. Jian Chu, a young art teacher, spoke as a representative, and her fresh, refined presence and original insights caught everyone’s attention. Until the day his diplomat first love returned from overseas. “She’s just your substitute.” I heard him say it with my own ears. I hid the ultrasound in my sketchbook and fled the city that very night. Months later, he 1.3kReads6.6Score10114d adds
44. 44 为 A Career in Public Service 为民官路 At Ease and Unrestrained安心无忌Urban1.8M WordsOngoing [A gritty, realistic tale of ambition and struggle in the government ranks] In 1990, top student Zhen Weimin offends the wrong people and gets kicked down to a poor rural township. Everyone thinks his life is over. But he is determined to make flowers bloom among the thorns. He breaks through obstacles with his knowledge and grounds himself in his conscience, with every step in sync with the pulse of the times. Starting in the township, he moves forward one step at a time. This is a true chronic 26.9kReads9.2Score2.7k14d adds

    Reader note

    This novel about officialdom is incredibly realistic and immersive.

45. 45 南 South of the Southern Mountain, by Wen He LUCKY 南山之南作者温禾LUCKY Wen He Lucky温禾luckyModern Romance433k WordsCompleted The city is noisy and bustling. So why am I still so lonely? Scientists say that in seven years, every cell in your body can be replaced, leaving not a single old cell behind. No matter how deep the pain, it will heal in just seven years. Every day you persevere is progress. It’s been seven years, and I’ve kept going, trying every day to forget you. A leading figure in materials science, a groveling quest to win his wife back. The male lead is initially paralyzed from the neck down, and later b 1.3kReads8.2Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    🤺This male lead is so pitiful. His health is deteriorating, yet he persists in his research and always keeps the female lead in his heart. Watching him pursue his wife in his clumsy yet sincere way is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. You can totally jump in!

46. 46 沉 The Sinking Boat and the Evening Sun 沉舟与晚晴 Momo's Little Words墨墨小语Modern Romance106k WordsCompleted [Government Insider + Powerful Official Romance + Age Gap + Sweet Romance + Workplace Love] He was a powerful figure with an infinitely bright future, a dazzling yet cold star in the political firmament. Calm, restrained, and indifferent to women, he remained that way until a work meeting, when one glimpse of a girl with a smile bright as the morning sun left him utterly captivated: Su Wanqing. 2.6kReads6.8Score23814d adds

    Reader note

    Both the male and female leads work in the system + workplace romance + realistic and down-to-earth. First book: The best state of marriage: You're making a fuss, he's laughing, and the kids are secretly laughing.

47. 47 江 Director Jiang’s Special Favor 江主任的偏爱 Momo's Little Words墨墨小语Modern Romance104k WordsCompleted [Government sector + both leads have no past relationships + age gap] He came from a powerful family and was cold and aristocratic, yet he fell in love with her at first sight. With their age difference, he strategically won her heart, advancing step by step until she had nowhere to run. He wove a gentle net around her, pampering her endlessly and claiming her for life. What to look forward to: ✅ An authentic look at workplace life in the government sector, plus sweet everyday romance ✅ A mat 2.2kReads8.0Score16914d adds
48. 48 爱 Love Will Come to Rest 爱会停歇 Tung Oil Fruit桐油果Modern Romance220k WordsCompleted [Playboy Turns Devoted] [Love Grows Over Time] [Sweet with a Little Angst] [Class Difference] Chen Chao, a rich playboy, falls sincerely in love with Yu Jiawen, who comes from an ordinary family. He knows he isn't the kind of person she'd ideally choose, but he can't let go of his feelings for her. "Yu Jiawen, do you know? Meeting you made me feel like I could have a proper relationship too." "I've thought about giving you up, but I just can't accept it. Watching you date, marry, and have childr 3.3kReads8.4Score16014d adds

    Reader note

    These are all good. They have different styles.

49. 49 遇 Meeting Her Made My Heart Beat Faster 遇见她心动不止 Tung Oil Fruit桐油果Modern Romance493k WordsCompleted [Love at first sight + mistaken identity + mutual secret crushes + healing + female growth] Everyone is level-headed and knows what they’re doing, so read without worry. Jiang Nan, insecure and neglected by her family, meets He Chengyang. A twist of fate sends their budding romance down the wrong path. He Chengyang mistakes Jiang Nan, the girl he fell in love with at first sight, for her older sister, Jiang Xue, and they begin a brief relationship. (Nothing inappropriate happens between them.) W 6.9kReads8.5Score33214d adds
50. 50 岁 After All These Years, We Finally Meet Again 岁月流转终相见 Tung Oil Fruit桐油果Modern Romance485k WordsCompleted [Reunion After Years Apart + Rekindled Love + Healing Through Family + Realistic Happy Ending] After drifting apart like clouds, ten years passed like flowing water. When we met again, my heart recognized you before I did. A summer romance came to an abrupt end because of an unfortunate misunderstanding. More than ten years later, thirty-five-year-old Gu Yan discovered by chance that he had a daughter in high school, and was reunited with the girl he had loved when he was young. Long-buried memo 5.5kReads7.4Score21314d adds

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