Ensemble Casts in Historical Romance!!!! 古言群像！！！！

1. 1 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

   The first book should be familiar to everyone; it's a masterpiece among masterpieces, a true gem among masterpieces. The second book is a dungeon-crawling story, but it's still an ensemble piece. Teams of friends venture into dungeons, each with their own unique characteristics. They work together to overcome challenges, and each dungeon is interconnected. Some interesting characters even make cameo appearances, which are quite funny.

2. 2 规 Rule Horror: The Prince Is Always Lusting After Me 规则怪谈：王子总是对我垂涎欲滴 There Will Always Be Youth总有青葱Mystery2.1M WordsOngoing [Volume One of the print edition goes on sale August 7] [Short drama and comic adaptation now available] [No romance + Infinite-flow + Horror game + No national destiny + Dark fairy tales] A young woman weeps softly at midnight. A handsome prince turns into a bloodthirsty “beast” at night. Cinderella dies a gruesome death on the night of the ball. The horror game is wrapped in shiny glassine, disguised as a sweet candy. What lies hidden behind the enchanting fairy-tale world... Weird tales desc 84.5kReads9.3Score9.8kShelves
3. 3 冒 After Passing Myself Off as the Heiress, My Powerful Brother Lost Control 冒认千金后，权臣兄长失控了 Lu Xiwan鹿溪晚Ancient Romance116k WordsOngoing [Fake heiress + not-quite-siblings + aloof powerful minister + historical political intrigue + ensemble cast + mystery of an old case + heroine's growth + love that develops over time + mutual devotion + happy ending + one-on-one, both leads' first love + slow burn + restrained romance + politics at the forefront] Fifteen years after the southward exodus, A Yuan, an orphaned girl who had lived among refugees, was brought into the Pei household to impersonate Pei Lingyi, the legitimate daughter w 301Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   I recommend this book if you enjoy ensemble casts. It's not just the male and female leads who grow; the other characters also have their own convictions and choices.

4. 4 守 On the Day of the Wake, My Sisters-in-Law Put Me on the Throne 守灵当天，我被众嫂嫂推上皇位 Kitchen God of the Wood Stove柴火灶王爷Historical724k WordsOngoing [Alternate Dynasty + Transmigration + War + Political Intrigue + Ensemble Cast + The Golden Finger Has Been Cut in Half] A high school boy named Tian Shu wakes up one morning in an ancient funeral hall. His widowed sisters-in-law swarm around him, showering him with care. In a feudal age of chaos, the powerful clans hold sway. The System is practically useless, and each sister-in-law has her own agenda. Born into a poor family, can he defy fate, change his destiny, command a vast empire, and mak 4.6kReads8.8Score183Shelves

   Reader note

   This one is good 😘

5. 5 你 You Want to Duel My Sword Spirit, Little Junior Uncle? 你说你想和我的剑灵小师叔比剑？ Ying Er应耳Ancient Romance897k WordsOngoing (Revenge against those who wronged her + face-slapping + no forgiveness + ensemble cast + prodigy + no CP) What’s it like being the senior disciple in a sect full of arrogant chosen ones? Thanks for asking. I’ve just died, so I can speak with authority. Wu Lu was once the most illustrious senior disciple of Tianxuan Sect. Ten years of hard cultivation earned her the praise of her elders and the respect of her fellow disciples. Then a few junior brothers and sisters joined the sect, and her life 1.1kReads8.7Score175Shelves

   Reader note

   Let me recommend my book: Blade & Soul, female protagonist + no romantic pairing + ensemble cast + gifted characters + face-slapping moments, normal male-to-female ratio! The female protagonist is skilled in both swordsmanship and weaponry. The other characters each have their own unique traits, but they're all geniuses!!! 😎 The main characters uphold their principles and never back down, a harmonious family—a spark when separated, a raging inferno when united. Here you'll find: a mischievous but fiercely protective junior uncle 🎉 a goofy berserker nephew 🎉 a second nephew with a facial ailment but a serious yet hilarious demeanor 🎉 a beautiful and powerful third nephew who loves explosions 🎉 a shy yet straightforward genius half-demon fourth nephew 🎉 a genuinely witty fifth nephew 🎉 and two naturally troublesome sixth and seventh nephews. There are also various elders—whatever kind of elder you're looking for, you'll find them here: gentle? Yes! Carefree? Yes! Highly skilled? Yes! Funny? Yes! Old-fashioned? We have that too! But they all share one characteristic: extreme protectiveness!!! Various fellow cultivators and stories await your exploration; you won't regret reading them! Here's the serious (?) Introduction: After being betrayed, Wu Lu transmigrated into the sword spirit of her arch-rival sect. However, this sect seems strange in every way; it doesn't look like a legitimate sect. It turns out they're all genuine chosen ones persecuted by fake overpowered protagonists. What does it mean for a group of people to be chased by bamboo rats? Why did the elder injure himself in a duel? And why are there a bunch of abnormal people waiting for her? "They've never beaten me, neither before nor now." "I am Wu Lu, number one on the Heavenly Ranking." "So it's the appearance of an old friend; it's an old friend resurrected."

6. 6 金 Jinling, Where the Evening Sky Grows Clear 金陵重晚晴 Still Remembering Sky-Blue Porcelain犹忆天青瓷Ancient Romance307k WordsCompleted Shen Zhiyan, heir to the Duke of Dingguo, is as bright and clear as the moon, and as gentle as jade. He has always been the finest man in the world in the eyes of his niece, Wen Yin. From the age of eight, Wen Yin lived with Shen Zhiyan in her maternal grandfather’s home, the Duke of Dingguo’s residence. The two grew deeply attached, spending their days together, but after she came of age, she no longer wanted to call him Uncle. Her feelings were secret but sincere, yet their love was painful an 62Reads—Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   This is a lively and engaging ensemble piece featuring four distinct couples. The romance and court intrigues intertwine, revolving around the power struggles between the prime minister and the emperor. The captivating story, though the legendary Empress Wen is deceased, remains a central thread running throughout. The author's delicate writing and immersive emotional descriptions create a powerful and thought-provoking narrative.

7. 7 一 A Blossom, A Cup of Wine, An Immortal Life 一花一酒一仙人，亦眠亦醉亦长生 Eat a Billion Less少吃亿点Eastern Fantasy1.0M WordsCompleted [This book is also known as The Nine Tales of Peach Blossom Spring] [The print edition of The Nine Tales of Peach Blossom Spring goes on sale at 7 p.m. on November 15!] [Immortality + taking disciples + no female lead + lighthearted comedy, no tearjerkers] When your master serves food, you spin the table; when your master chants a spell, you chatter away. When your master rests, you sing; when your master sleeps in, you bang on a pot. Your master is immortal, but your life is short; your master 196.6kReads9.5Score24.6kShelves

   Reader note

   [Top Post][Top Post] Regarding this book, I initially thought it was just a simple, straightforward farming and immortality story, occasionally featuring a few destined disciples. I'm very picky about novels! When I get impatient after reading just a few chapters, I know I'll persevere, but this is a beautiful book! The writing is pleasant and the literary foundation is profound! [Masterpiece by Que Shi][Masterpiece by Que Shi][Masterpiece by Que Shi] In just a short chapter, the beautiful scenery is vividly depicted before the reader's eyes, so the descriptions of the scenery are not bloated; rather, they are light and cheerful, yet not thin. 👍👍👍 The character development is the same; 🧐🧐 the author can vividly portray the personality of a minor character in just a few words, making such a small character come alive. How much more so the protagonist! My literary skills are not high enough to fully present all the beauty of this book to everyone. [Already Added to My Favorites][Already Added to My Favorites][Already Added to My Favorites][Please Follow][Please Follow][Please Follow][Please Follow]

8. 8 穿 I Became the Most Popular Person at an Ancient Academy and Was Forced into a Love Triangle 穿到古代书院成为万人迷被迫修罗 Tasty Crunch可口磕乐Two Male Leads720k WordsCompleted [Dual Male Leads + Beloved by All + Love Rival Showdowns + Ancient School Setting] Sons of the Chancellor, the Dali Court, and the General: the school’s F4 {All male leads are devoted to one person + lighthearted comedy} Su Mingjue transmigrates into the body of Jinling Prince’s spoiled legitimate son. Because he’s lazy and uneducated, Jinling Prince sends him from the south to study at Luming Academy in the capital, thousands of miles away. Hoping to return to the city as soon as possible and 4.3kReads9.0Score666Shelves

   Reader note

   The ensemble cast is quite captivating; the main character makes many friends and has a lot of personal charm, which I find quite appealing! It's definitely a "group favorite" type of story and worth watching! [Thumbs up][Thumbs up][Thumbs up]

9. 9 性 Wild at Heart, A Master Flirt: The Coldhearted Prince Goes Mad for Her 性子野，撩的花，寡情王爷疯魔啦 Wenxin Ruoshui文心若水Ancient Romance906k WordsCompleted [Both Leads Are Inexperienced + Faux Uncle and Niece + Political Intrigue + Ensemble Cast + Regretful Pursuit] [Quirky, Scheming Heroine VS. Vengeful, Unhinged Uncle] Xie Ning, the second daughter of the Prince of Jing’an’s household, has just arrived in Yandu when she wanders into the wrong room and is used by a man as an ingredient in an antidote. After one wild night, she intends to treat it as a fleeting fling, but he petitions the emperor to grant them a marriage. He is the mighty Prince of 1.7kReads9.2Score185Shelves

   Reader note

   These two ancient romance novels are particularly captivating, featuring a diverse cast of characters embodying political intrigue and several distinct couples, each one outstanding. There's no time travel or reincarnation element. Purely ancient Chinese romance, imbued with a classic, antique charm.

10. 10 公 The Princess Becomes a Servant, and the Mad Regent Locks Her Up with Bloodshot Eyes 公主为婢，疯批摄政王红眼囚她 Wenxin Ruoshui文心若水Ancient Romance784k WordsCompleted [Mutual Firsts] [Power Struggles] [Taking by Force] [Rivalry for Love] [Love and Hate] [Resilient, Cool Beauty and Unhinged Prince Regent] She was the princess of Nanzhao, but through a twist of fate, she ended up living among ordinary people. Eight years ago, Xiao Nanyan, the regent of Tianqi, happened to pass through Nanzhao. He rescued her and brought her back to his residence, where he raised her as a deathsworn guard. With beauty that could topple kingdoms, she was still only a servant, and 3kReads9.2Score320Shelves
11. 11 深 Late Nights in the Deep Estate 深宅晚 Ning Qingxuan, Who Likes Geng Sai Niu喜欢更赛牛的宁清璇Ancient Romance742k WordsCompleted Her husband, Song Hemian, died young, leaving Jiang Wanyin alone in a desolate mansion, surrounded by endless gossip. Her late husband's younger brother, Song Heran, returns from afar. He is refined and handsome, yet reserved and inscrutable, treating her with a tenderness that constantly oversteps the bounds of propriety. As they spend their days together, Jiang Wanyin gradually realizes that this “younger brother-in-law” is nothing like the Song Heran her husband described, in either his habit 2.1kReads7.3Score201Shelves

    Reader note

    It's a really good book, the author put a lot of effort into it, it's so enjoyable to read, I'm definitely going to buy it!

12. 12 兄 Elder Brother, You Mustn't 兄长不可 Ning Qingxuan, Who Likes Geng Sai Niu喜欢更赛牛的宁清璇Ancient Romance406k WordsCompleted Shen Yanci is the envy of everyone in the capital: the refined and upright heir of the Shen family, with a bright future ahead. Yet his family also takes in Su Wanqing, an orphan girl with no one to rely on. An elder's words, "Raise her by your side and treat her as your own younger sister," become an invisible shackle between them. He watches her grow from a timid little girl into a graceful young woman, cherishing and protecting her at every turn. But as they spend day after day together, he d 4.5kReads8.1Score508Shelves
13. 13 女 Matriarchy: The Phoenix's Arrival Before the Four Lords 女尊：凤临四君 Ning Qingxuan, Who Likes Geng Sai Niu喜欢更赛牛的宁清璇Ancient Romance433k WordsCompleted Heroine: Xiao Zhiyue, beautiful, powerful, and tragic to the core The seventh princess of the Fenglin Dynasty. Her birth father died young, and her imperial mother despises her. She spent eighteen years in the Cold Palace with a face said to be a calamity to men. Everyone in the capital knows she's breathtakingly beautiful, yet so powerless that anyone can bully her. [Four Princes Consort Candidates Who Keep Trying to Outdo Each Other] 1. Shen Qingmo, the aloof Chief Councilor. Outwardly: "I obe 1.3kReads—Score116Shelves
14. 14 牡 Farewell to the Phoenix Throne on a Peony Couch 牡丹榻上辞凤阙 Ning Qingxuan, Who Likes Geng Sai Niu喜欢更赛牛的宁清璇Ancient Romance211k WordsCompleted Shen Wanning had lived in the secluded depths of the Shen residence for as long as she could remember, growing up alongside her half-brother, Shen Huaijin, the chief grand secretary. He always treated her with the distance and severity of an elder brother, convinced she was the daughter of his father's mistress, hidden away in the household, a stain on the family's honor. It was only when the decree accusing the loyal of treason arrived that the truth behind the massacre of her military family w 28Reads—Score—Shelves
15. 15 天 The World's Number One Must Be Pretty Fast at Running Away 天下第一跑路一定很快吧 Luo Jin洛荩Eastern Fantasy300k WordsCompleted [Invincible Protagonist + Lighthearted + One Heroine + Sweet Romance] There is a young swordswoman, so poor she can barely get by, leading a skinny horse and determined to right every wrong in the world; A young wanderer tries to make a living by the roadside; A naive monster and an innkeeper; To the east is an elegant young gentleman who cares far too much about saving face; And a legitimate princess who became a nun halfway through life to avenge the man stolen from her; This is the story of t 15.8kReads9.5Score1.4kShelves

    Reader note

    This is the story of the world's number one fighter preparing to flee.

16. 16 师 My Junior Sister Masters Every Path, and She Loves Making Weapons with a Bang! 师妹她全修，炼器就爱哐哐哐！ Zhan Dounan占斗南Ancient Romance363k WordsOngoing [Transmigrate into a book + background character + wreak havoc in the cultivation world + jack-of-all-trades] Sheng Fengshi transmigrates into a tragic romance novel as a background character. The real heroine’s entire family is doomed to die. She plans to keep a low profile, focus on cultivation, and stay out of the plot. But her master hands her thirty-six storehouses at a time. It’s not about the money. She’s just naturally overflowing with compassion. When faced with a kind, upright heroine 974Reads9.2Score229Shelves

    Reader note

    I love both of these books, but they're not finished yet! In the first book, the female lead has all sorts of reasons to persuade others, and she always manages to empty their warehouses. In the second book, Cloud King is the best!

17. 17 一 A Very Serious Cultivation Novel 一本非常正经的修仙小说 Cao Rong艹容Ancient Romance1.1M WordsOngoing [Unhinged faction + ensemble cast + absurdist faction + comedy faction] No couples Not your typical cultivation story. ⚠⚠⚠ Extremely absurd [important point ⚠⚠⚠] Jian Bingwu invites her to see the scenery: Jian Bingwu is good. Jian Bingwu pushes her off the Immortal-Slaying Terrace: Jian Bingwu is bad. Jian Xieyun happily goes to meet her: Jian Xieyun is silly. Jian Xieyun gets pushed off: Jian Xieyun is miserable. But she’s a member of the divine race. Why push her off the Immortal-Slaying Terr 17kReads9.2Score2.5kShelves
18. 18 我 I Saved the Entire Sect by Giving Up 我靠摆烂拯救了全宗门 The Princess Isn't Going Home公主不回家Ancient Romance1.9M WordsCompleted (The second physical volume is out) Ye Qiao woke up one day to find she had become the second senior sister, a tool character in a novel about a girl adored by everyone. In the novel, whenever the junior sister was in trouble, the second senior sister stepped in. If the junior sister wanted a divine artifact, the second senior sister fetched it. If the junior sister lacked a spiritual root, hers had to be dug out. Ye Qiao was at her breaking point. She fled the mountain in the middle of the nigh 217.1kReads9.6Score24.3kShelves

    Reader note

    It's absolutely amazing!!! The female lead is cheerful and not at all over the place, and the supporting characters are all wonderful in their own way, not just there to highlight the female lead!!! There are lots of jokes, but none of them feel out of place!!! 😍😍😍😍😍

19. 19 太 The Crown Prince Is a Treasure Trove, but She Flirts and Runs 太子浑身是宝，但她撩完就跑 Nine Strokes, Then a Horizontal Line九笔横才Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Clever revenge + ensemble court drama + male lead fakes his death and reveals his identity, then goes mad + heroine is his one true love] [Power couple comedy | Strategic mind games | All the right ingredients | Fictional setting] Axiang, a huntress, bought herself a live-in husband. He was handsome, with a fine figure and a noble, radiant air, like an immortal crane descended from the heavens, or a jade-faced gentleman from a storybook. But he had no idea how to show affection. When she offer 1.5kReads9.2Score185Shelves

    Reader note

    "Comparable to a 9.9-rated romance masterpiece," this novel boasts a tight plot, a fast pace, and no fluff—just pure thrills. Featuring a blend of court intrigue, two strong protagonists, high intelligence, and humor, each dramatic turnaround is sure to leave readers breathless. The descriptions of the theme of "love" are exceptional; the reading experience resonates deeply, evoking a profound emotional connection that lingers long afterward. The only way to describe the feeling after finishing the book is with a sense of awe. Highly recommended.

20. 20 谁 Who Gets Forced to Inherit the Young Master Position After Transmigrating? 谁家穿越被迫继承少主之位啊 If I Do Not Leave若不辞Modern Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Urban Imagination + Ensemble Cast + No Romance + Interstellar] It all began when five burly men showed up at her house. “Miss Zhixin, we have been waiting for you!” Zhixin (not a text message!): What?! Overnight, she became the heir to East Xia’s foremost family, and discovered that this world didn’t seem quite right. Zhixin slapped her thigh. “We can talk about being the young mistress later. Looks like things are about to get interesting.” The principal set her up when she enrolled, so Zhixin 66.8kReads9.5Score9.7kShelves

    Reader note

    Absolutely fantastic! Both of your ensemble novels are excellent. Each character has their own distinct personality, making them feel like a real, flesh-and-blood group of people. Whether it's "Watching the Vast Ocean" or "Reincarnation," they are all very unique. I absolutely love your ensemble novels! (Just wondering, when will your next book be released?)

21. 21 共 Together, We Pledge Our Names on Mount Yan 共许燕山铭 Angelica Sent to Faraway远志寄当归Ancient Romance440k WordsOngoing [Strong heroine + Political intrigue + Nation and family + Ancient war + Powerful couple + Happy ending] A top assassin and a battle-hardened general make a vow to reclaim their homeland. Childhood sweethearts reunited after years apart, they are each other’s sharpest blade and strongest shield. “I am the blade that will reclaim our mountains and rivers. I’ll cut down every enemy, even if I’m left with nothing but bones!” “I am the net that catches you over the abyss. I’ll keep you safe and give 7Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    I loved all the supporting characters, except for the male and female leads. The empress who understood astrology, the shrewd businesswoman best friend, the scholar confronting foreign enemies, the clever and witty playboy, the deserter who fought to the death to defend the city… Everyone worked together to create a new era of peace.

22. 22 重EN Too Many Reborn Heroes? Time to Bring in the Government 重生者太密集？我带国家队下场 Bian Lu边鹿Sci-Fi & Apocalypse758k WordsCompleted (A feel-good power fantasy, with a beautiful, badass heroine who confiscates golden fingers) “Sheng is the boss around here. She's ruthless and doesn't waste words. Cross her, and she'll take you down!” In the year 2323 of the Star Era, the apocalypse is about to begin. Some people awaken their powers early, while reborn people are already making their moves… As the head of a new department, Sheng An is responsible for recruiting and leading all the powered and reborn individuals, preparing for 123.7kReads9.7Score17.5kShelves

    Reader note

    It's not a historical drama, but a group portrait of a post-apocalyptic world; it's entertaining and explores national righteousness.

23. 23 仙 The Immortal's Appearance 仙人状 Shi Jin是今Martial Arts313k WordsCompleted [Historical romance + mystery solving + male lead with a secret identity + lovers who fight as fiercely as they love] A dazzling, outspoken heroine and a seemingly gentle but secretly ruthless physician, locked in a battle of equals as they fall in love! A celebrated romance author's popular historical mystery! A relationship between equals, full of tension; heart-stopping court intrigue; and the shocking truth behind bizarre murders! A celestial being appears in a dream to help solve a case and 16.2kReads9.6Score2.7kShelves

    Reader note

    Every character is vividly portrayed; it's been a long time since I've read such a good book. Qingtan is the most independent and thoughtful female protagonist I've ever read; I love her.

24. 24 锦 The Brocade-Clad Killer 锦衣杀 A Bamboo Knows Cool一竹知酷Ancient Romance388k WordsCompleted He is the sharpest blade in the emperor’s hand, the commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard. By imperial order, he marries the only daughter of the Marquis Who Guards the Nation, who has been left behind in the capital. A marriage contract is both a reward and a shackle... She is a hostage used by the emperor to control the generals stationed at the border. He is the jailer ordered to keep watch over her. He struggles between loyalty and the growing desire he cannot suppress, while she naviga 2.2kReads7.1Score263Shelves

    Reader note

    An old saying goes, waiting for you to open the blind box.

25. 25 渺 Misty Waves of Astonishment 渺渺惊澜 Ya Fei Li Ou亚菲莉欧Ancient Romance520k WordsCompleted Shi Miao is the most cherished daughter of the Shi family, but she has a secret: she is not their biological child. To repay their kindness, she chooses the quickest path: attaching herself to the powerful. She sets her sights on Prince Su, Zhao Jingyuan, a celebrated military hero who deeply despises women throwing themselves at him. Everyone in the capital knows that Prince Su is stern and iron-fisted, and the emperor's most valued son. Everyone waits to see Shi Miao make a fool of herself, m 3.2kReads8.1Score406Shelves

    Reader note

    Finally, they've skipped the formulaic, face-slapping cliché. The young lady from the military family in red deliberately came to show off her impeccable archery skills, just waiting to humiliate the female lead, only to have her openly praise her archery, leaving the female lead swallowing all her provocation. The lack of forced competition and plot twists, focusing instead on the subtle, undercurrents of rivalry among the noble ladies, is so much more interesting.

26. 26 女 A Woman in a Man's Body: A Concubine-Born Son's Guide to Getting Rich 女穿男：庶子暴富手册 Liu Jilian刘忌廉Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Woman transmigrates into a man's body + transmigration + one-on-one romance + marriage before love + slow-burn + farming and business] [Sweet-talking, ruthless rent collector vs. theatrical holdout who refuses to break off the engagement] When Zhao Wenduo opens his eyes, he's become the disowned illegitimate son of a duke's household. A vast fortune? None of it is his. A houseful of servants? They've all gone to the legitimate son. All he has left are two crumbling alleys, a marriage contract, 1.1kReads7.0Score126Shelves

    Reader note

    It has to be this one.

27. 27 穿 Transmigrated as the Villainess, I Reborn the Obsessive Male Lead as a Hostage 穿成恶毒女配，重生偏执男主为质 Qing Man Wu Sha轻嫚武纱Ancient Romance581k WordsCompleted A possessive, brooding hostage prince with a yandere streak + a spoiled, arrogant, willful Grand Princess + a cold, aloof young chancellor + transmigration into a book + System + raising a villainous male lead + defying fate College student Zhang Susu transmigrated into a book as Su Yingxue, the vicious female antagonist and Grand Princess. In the original novel, Su Yingxue met a tragic end. She abused and tormented Chu Xingchen for years, turning the male lead into a cold-blooded, cruel, and si 1.8kReads9.3Score196Shelves

    Reader note

    A collection of captivating historical romance novels, featuring time travel and reincarnation, tales of cunning and ruthless pursuit of love, and the allure of unattainable beauties falling for each other—my absolute favorites are here!

28. 28 弃 Reborn to Win Back My Wife: Dump the Deadbeat, Climb to the Top 弃妻重生攻略：弃渣夫扶高枝 The Jianghu Is Like a Dream江湖似梦Ancient Romance887k WordsOngoing A discarded wife is reborn and plots her revenge + the aloof beauty descends from her pedestal for love + a newly appointed prefect from a noble family + a hidden benefactor's ruthless enforcer + a love-triangle showdown In her previous life, Mu Yanshu cooked for Shen Mobai, cared for his mother-in-law, raised his stepson and stepdaughter, and managed the Marquis of Anning's household. She spent her whole life serving Shen Mobai. Only as she lay dying did she discover that her children were the 2.6kReads9.5Score344Shelves
29. 29 青 The Fate of the Green Hairpin 青簪缘 Qing Man Wu Sha轻嫚武纱Ancient Romance782k WordsCompleted [Unhinged Male Lead + Forced Love + Fleeing Heroine] Shi Muqing was originally just a modern woman who had transmigrated into another world. Because of the Shi family’s standing at court, she was inexplicably noticed by the Third Prince, Murong Yuan, and drawn into the struggle for the throne among the three princes of Great Qi. She had once sincerely fallen for his tenderness, but she refused to become just one of his many women. When she first entered the palace, she kept making mistakes, hopi 914Reads9.3Score105Shelves
30. 30 逆 Seeking the Way on a Perilous Path: The Tribulation of Supernatural Powers 逆途求道之异能道劫 Starfall in the Dark Night星陨暗夜Urban477k WordsCompleted On the Xiniu Hezhou Continent, people with supernatural abilities are divided into strict ranks. Commoners will never awaken, while the aristocracy monopolizes power from generation to generation. Tang Xuan refuses to accept this fate. With his four disciples, he storms the Sutra Repository and seizes the ancient secret text, the Myriad Phenomena Compendium of Supernatural Abilities, a forbidden book that can awaken supernatural abilities in everyone. The price: being hunted by the entire Xiniu —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    It's beautiful. Saying too much makes it seem unreal; just look and see.

31. 31 重 Reborn as a Concubine's Daughter, I Can Hear Cats' Thoughts 重生庶女解锁猫猫心声 Tomatoes and Cherry Tomatoes番茄与圣女果Ancient Romance226k WordsOngoing Rebirth + inner thoughts + transmigrate into a book + an adorable kitty + household intrigue and political schemes Every couple is faithful to one another!!! A coming-of-age story with a touch of ensemble cast After I was reborn, I could hear my cat’s thoughts. She called me stupid, but helped me overthrow an entire dynasty. She was a lowly concubine-born daughter who had already died once. In her previous life, her family sacrificed her. Her wedding dress was stained with blood, and she died 3Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The characters are quite well-developed; it's more of an ensemble piece.

32. 32 粗 A Lowly Palace Maid's Rise to Power 粗使宫女升职记 Coconut Seal Candy椰子海豹糖Ancient Romance982k WordsOngoing [A new writer and a new novel. The rating has just appeared, so it’s quite low. My family is struggling, and writing isn’t easy. I hope you’ll be patient with me. I’m deeply grateful to you all.] [This story features a large ensemble] [No rivalry between women, no love-brained heroines, and no adoration of men] [Women supporting women] [An unconventional palace drama] [A heroine who grows] Please note! The emperor in this story is extremely [human] (bolded for emphasis!), and lacks basic moral 585Reads8.8Score112Shelves

    Reader note

    A pure ancient Chinese romance novel with an ensemble cast, no rebirth, time travel, system, or cheat codes! Life is tough, writing is hard, and without a debut or traffic, I have to promote it myself. The female lead is intelligent, doesn't compete for male attention, isn't love-struck, and has logical thinking without being idiotic. The low rating is due to fewer reviews. It's a good story that doesn't glorify feudal society! A female lead who doesn't fall in love, a humanoid emperor 🤦 A character who grows and develops, female characters helping each other, a slice-of-life palace intrigue story, an ensemble cast, and decent writing. The title is a bit cheesy, but it's definitely not a melodramatic story. Two updates a day, please give it a try, thank you!

33. 33 旧 Moonlight of Yesteryear: The Empress’s Thirteen Husbands 旧时月：女帝十三夫 Living It Up Like a Fool活着瞎胡闹Ancient Romance296k WordsOngoing [Female-led + feel-good revenge story + face-slapping + multiple couples + happy ending] “What I want is not your protection. I want the people of this realm to bow before me and pledge their allegiance...” Guan Li shakily rose to her feet. Her hands, hidden beneath her ornate sleeves, were covered in blood. She glanced back at the young imperial uncle she had killed with her own hands, and a clear tear rolled down her cheek. A young man in a pale blue gauze robe strode in and caught Guan Li as 153Reads—Score108Shelves

    Reader note

    Is this alright? "What I want is not your protection, but the submission of the world..." Guan Li stood up tremblingly, her hands covered in blood beneath her gorgeous sleeves. She glanced back at the little prince she had killed with her own hands, and a clear tear rolled down her cheek. A young man in a light blue gauze robe strode in, supporting Guan Li as he turned to look at the Ninth Prince, Guan Sheng, who lay slumped on the table. "Is he dead? Or..." Guan Li stretched out her blood-stained hand, trembling slightly, "Dongfang Ji, I... I killed him." ... Synopsis: [Strong female lead + satisfying read + face-slapping + multiple couples + happy ending] "In my life, from a naive young girl to an old woman with wrinkled skin, I've had thirteen husbands. This doesn't include the one I admired... Yes, and that man who never wanted a title. I am the first female emperor of the Great Sheng Dynasty. It's difficult for a man to be emperor, but even more difficult for a woman. But I'm not afraid. What I fear are those men who once considered themselves superior. They feared I would value women; they feared I would take away their high positions, wealth, and glory... Yet they had no choice but to respect me, because I held everything in my hands and could control their fate." You ask me? Of these thirteen men, who did I love the most? I am the emperor, the master of this Great Sheng realm. I see no man, nor do I hold any man in my heart. If I must choose one, then it is him... Who is he? You will understand once you walk this path with me. --Empress Guan Li

34. 34 殿 Your Highness, Your Assassin Has Saved Someone Again! 殿下，你家杀手又救人了！ Yao Qianling妖千灵Ancient Romance826k WordsOngoing The manhua adaptation is out [Gap Moe Assassin] [Useless Poor Prince] [Ensemble Cast of Total Goofballs] [Ridiculous Sweet Romance] [Court Intrigue and the Martial World] I'm Junlin, the poorest prince in the whole capital. She's Yinyin, the dumbest assassin in the whole martial world. She planned to kill me for the bounty, but I talked her into becoming my personal bodyguard instead. From then on, my life was safe, but my blood pressure and debt levels were both out of control. "Your Highness, 4.9kReads9.4Score445Shelves

    Reader note

    It's a micro-ensemble piece, and the characters are really well-developed. They're not just supporting characters serving the main character; they're all individuals with their own thoughts and ideas.

35. 35 革 The Revolutionary Committee Director's Wife Snatched Him Away Again 革委会主任又被媳妇抢了 Sisters Yiyi姐妹花一一Modern Romance1.1M WordsCompleted On a bitter winter day in 1975, Jiang Yu, director of the Revolutionary Committee in Hancheng County, was knocked unconscious with a brick on his way to work. When he woke up, all his belongings had been stolen: his service pistol, wallet, watch, and belt. Not a thing was left. The robbers were two high school sophomores, Xu Aiguo and Xu Xiuyun. The cousins worked together: he carried Jiang Yu to the hospital, while she stripped him bare as he lay unconscious. Xu Xiuyun stuffed the pistol into 3.8kReads6.3Score290Shelves

    Reader note

    This is a period drama about high-ranking officials. The male lead rises to power through his own abilities, while the female lead is clever, bold, and quick to run away from trouble, never holding him back. She has the male lead completely captivated. The entire village is incredibly capable, so marrying her is like marrying the whole village—a hilarious story where the entire village adores her.

36. 36 倾 The Alluring Female Coroner 倾城女仵作 Yue Mo月莫Mystery1.4M WordsCompleted (Comic adaptation of The Beautiful Coroner now available) (Print edition of The Beautiful Coroner now on sale) After the mysterious death of her father, a coroner, Ye Caitang was saddled with a huge debt of fifty taels of silver. She had no choice but to sell herself to the Six Doors and work like a beast of burden for her creditor, Xia Yue, a renowned detective. Fortunately, Ye Caitang possessed the soul of an experienced modern forensic pathologist. Using modern forensic science, she deciphere 21.6kReads9.4Score3.1kShelves

    Reader note

    I love it so much ♥♥

37. 37 小 The Little Princess Is Always Trying to Undermine Me 小郡主她总想拆我台 A Trivial Reason渺小的理由Mystery337k WordsCompleted [Historical romance + mystery-solving + one-on-one romance + sweet love + ensemble cast] [Quirky young princess × aloof, sharp-tongued heir] After my imperial uncle caught me causing a scene in a brothel, I became an unofficial member of the Dali Temple. My immediate superior, Xie Zhiyan, is the sharpest-tongued heir in the capital. He’s so cutting that even the flies find him harsh when he examines a corpse. “Your Highness, if you’re bored, why not lick the tiles in the morgue clean?” That is, 275Reads6.3Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommended! The Dali Temple Detective Team, a two-book series, tells the stories of the team members!

38. 38 冷 The Cold-Faced Miracle Doctor Keeps Getting Framed 冷面圣手他总被碰瓷 A Trivial Reason渺小的理由Mystery306k WordsCompleted A sandstorm sweeps across the Western Regions, bringing a string of baffling cases: a corpse aboard a ghost ship in Loulan, ghostly figures in painted human skins in Dunhuang, a deadly demonic melody in Gaochang, and a blazing-red mystery that burns at the heart. Mo Jiu, young master of Rong Ku Valley, bears the burden of original sin. A master of medicine and poison, he can find the tiniest clues on a corpse. Lin Xingwan, the dazzling and spirited leader of Ting Feng Pavilion, is unrivaled in 26Reads—Score—Shelves
39. 39 首 The Concubine's Laid-Back Life in the Chief Minister's Household 首辅家妾室的躺平日常 Budding Bok Choy开花小白菜Ancient Romance559k WordsCompleted Liu Yu was reborn, returning to the time before disaster struck the Pingnan Marquis Household. She, along with Liu Huan, the illegitimate daughter of the second branch, and Liu Ying, the illegitimate daughter of the fifth branch, had been offered to powerful officials as concubines by the old madam. Because of her beauty, she entered Prince Qi's household and was forced into its internal power struggles. After barely managing to survive them, Prince Qi ascended the throne. And then... She had fo 2.1kReads8.3Score245Shelves

    Reader note

    ✨✨The plot unfolds slowly and is very engaging. I admire the female lead's character—she was once an empress, yet she could still be content as a concubine. The old lady's experiences are also quite legendary. I look forward to seeing Yu Niang and the Third Master's relationship develop naturally, and for the female lead to soon become the empress's wife.

40. 40 穿 Transmigrated as the Female Lead’s Foil: Her Older Brother 穿成女主对照组她哥 Mumu Northbound木木向北Two Male Leads695k WordsCompleted Tang Mo transmigrates into a book as the cannon-fodder older brother of the female lead’s foil! To avoid being written off, he works hard to learn new skills and escape the plot. After an accident, a man saves him. Only later does Tang Mo learn that this man is the one person the female lead can never have: her moonlight. Yan Li, the female lead’s unattainable love, is the strongest of the younger generation in the story, cold and aloof by nature. As Tang Mo struggles to escape the plot, his ent 8.5kReads9.4Score725Shelves

    Reader note

    These are all types; you can take a look.

41. 41 古 A Young Master's Daily Life as a Scholar in Ancient Times 古代少爷读书日常 Linlin Loves You for Ten Thousand Years琳琳爱你一万年Ancient Romance327k WordsCompleted Also known as Back to the Days of Youth at Yuzhang and The Eldest Legitimate Grandson’s Code The everyday life of a young nobleman in ancient times, a favored son of heaven (school + family life, etc.) Yuzhang’s spirited yet chaotic student life at the Imperial Academy! P.S. He transmigrates into a book, with no golden finger and no CP, though he does have a wife who serves as a tool and whom he feels no affection for. The male lead will take the imperial examinations and become an official. The 5.5kReads6.9Score493Shelves
42. 42 大 The Splendor of Daying 大瀛风华 The Marquis's Claws侯爷的爪爪Historical235k WordsOngoing (Dual transmigration, ensemble cast, slow burn, slice of life) A couple argues on a bridge, then transmigrates together. Transmigrating as the crown princess, Zhao Mingxi discovers that her family were invaders. Three hundred years ago, the Yuan clan crossed the sea from Dongying, slaughtered the people of Shenzhou, and secured their rule. Now she sits in court, facing pressure from the noble families to abdicate and being mocked with the claim that “a woman is unfit to be heir.” As she looks —Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    🔥🔥Highly recommend this book, "The Splendor of the Great Ying Kingdom." It features both the male and female protagonists transmigrating to different worlds and a power struggle within the imperial court. The premise alone is incredibly captivating.

43. 43 穿 Transmigrate Into a Book: The Mad Qi Min’s Caged Sparrow 穿书逐玉：疯批齐旻的掌中雀 Li Jun'er李军儿Female-Channel Fanfiction714k WordsOngoing Yu Qianqian was transmigrated into the body of a doomed cannon-fodder character, and mistook the sinister, unhinged imperial grandson Qi Min for her savior. Qi Min was a thoroughly rotten man. He didn’t understand love, only possession. He clipped her wings and locked her in a cage made of pure gold, stroking her face with a smile. “Qianqian, you’re only safe by my side.” Desperate for freedom, Yu Qianqian faked her death in a blazing fire. That night, the all-powerful Third Young Master Qi dug 11Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    The writing is divine, every word piercing the heart! The author's words are like a knife dipped in ice; "Here, human life is truly worthless. And the man before you is the knife that cuts the grass," every sentence precisely strikes at the heart of the emotion, with an absurdly powerful aftertaste!

44. 44 穿 After Reincarnating as a Wretched Old Woman, I Just Want to Live a Laid-Back Life 穿成极品老妇之后只想当咸鱼 Every Inch Is Gold寸寸金Ancient Romance1.6M WordsCompleted The old woman was a real piece of work. She drove her eldest daughter-in-law to her death, then doted on her second son, who passed the highest imperial exam and married the daughter of the prime minister. She even encouraged him to favor his concubine and neglect his wife. In the end, the prime minister had the whole family killed. The old woman suddenly came back reborn, only to be scared to death by what she had experienced in her previous life. Manxing, a promising 25-year-old woman, transmi 31.1kReads9.4Score4.3kShelves

    Reader note

    This is absolutely amazing, a full five stars!! Don't miss this high-quality article!

45. 45 全 The Whole Sect Is Unlucky, but the Lucky Carp Junior Sister Is Spoiled by Everyone and Makes It Through 全宗倒霉蛋，锦鲤小师妹团宠上岸 Little Ink Bell墨铃小铛Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted After transmigrating into a book, Rong Yi discovered that she had become the world's biggest fool, helping the heroine achieve success. No matter what opportunities came her way, whether rare spirit herbs, ancient swords, or ancient divine beast eggs, all it took was a few words from the heroine, her senior sister, or her senior brothers and master, and she'd naively hand them over. In the end, she died taking a fatal blow from an evil fiend meant for the heroine. Then, after just a couple of wo 25.6kReads9.3Score3.7kShelves
46. 46 重 Reborn, the Eldest Senior Sister Gets Rich Beyond Measure 重生后，大师姐她凭亿近人 A Clear Song by the Pool一曲潭清Ancient Romance666k WordsCompleted Originally titled Reborn, the Senior Sister Is Worth Billions Su Chanyi never claimed to be a good person, but neither was she a vicious villain. Yet in the end, her entire family was wiped out, and her bones were ground to dust. Reborn, she cultivates both spiritual and demonic arts, masters both swordsmanship and formations, and proves the Dao through the Taiji. Her family is powerful, her status exalted, and her talent defies the heavens. With a phoenix and a Bai Ze at her side, she is the on 7.1kReads9.4Score943Shelves
47. 47 重 The Reborn Senior Sister Doesn’t Want to Work Hard 重生大师姐不想努力了 Glass Salted Fish玻璃咸鱼Ancient Romance1.8M WordsCompleted As the sect’s senior disciple, Song Wu had always worked diligently, trained hard, and taught her fellow disciples, all to protect the sect’s reputation. But her fiancé thought she wasn’t gentle or considerate enough. Her fellow disciples called her rigid, strict, and lacking in compassion. Even her master, the sect leader, advised her to be more generous and kind. Heartbroken, Song Wu forced a breakthrough and lost her life. She never expected to be reborn at a time before she had even become t 1kReads8.8Score262Shelves
48. 48 末 Apocalypse: The Whole Company Denies the Existence of the 18th Floor 末世：全公司否认18楼存在 On Jiufeng Mountain九峰山上Sci-Fi & Apocalypse783k WordsCompleted [Apocalypse + No System + Reborn + Mystery + One Female Lead + Zombies + Hard Sci-Fi + No Mindless Decisions + Revenge] Reborn six hours before the apocalypse, Chu Yan has not only retained his memories of the future, but also mastered the ultimate secret of genetic evolution! He can become the most powerful god in the apocalypse! He frantically stockpiles supplies, builds weapons, modifies vehicles, and saves his parents, racing against time! He will kill his enemies with his own hands and turn 3.6kReads8.7Score314Shelves

    Reader note

    For a classic Chinese romance novel featuring a diverse cast of characters, check this one out! It realistically depicts human nature in a post-apocalyptic world, with no system or intelligence reduction, a fresh plot full of twists and turns, and solid writing that gets more exciting the more you read.

49. 49 绝 The Peerless Little Princess Consort 绝世小俏妃 Dog Thirteen狗十三Ancient Romance575k WordsCompleted [A funny, charming princess consort + a scheming prince who fiercely protects his own + a manipulative woman + a wickedly seductive and mysterious Holy Lord, and more...] [Sweet romance + comedy + from scum to love + perfect ending] What does it feel like to fall in love with your enemy? The day he led his troops to invade her country, the sun shone brightly. The seventh prince of Beijiang, Mu Beiming, cut an imposing figure in his black armor. Even with a fearsome mask hiding his face, his shar 5.4kReads9.5Score635Shelves

    Reader note

    Here's a wave of captivating ancient Chinese romance novels.

50. 50 倚 Leaning on the Perilous Pavilion 倚危庭 Smiling Eyes Amid Peach Blossoms桃花深处眉眼弯弯Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Just how hard is it to raise an outstanding young woman? That depends on who’s raising her. If an entire clan, or even a whole country, throws its support behind her, that’s another matter entirely. Ye Qingjiu is a woman with all sorts of jumbled memories and a knack for baffling people with her behavior. She thinks she’s clever, until she somehow gets married and finally realizes Li Tingye has been playing her all along... 6kReads9.4Score597Shelves

    Reader note

    A classic ancient Chinese romance novel, a treasured gem, logically sound, beautifully written, and a delightful read.

Other lists with The Willow by the Palace Wall