Looking for Historical Court-Intrigue Novels With Brilliant Schemes and Elegant Prose 想看古风权谋文，一定要高智，文笔细腻

1. 151 烬 Ashfire Case Files 烬火探案 Sparse Shadows in the Courtyard疏影庭前Mystery692k WordsCompleted In Chi Li, a city governed by a rigid martial order, countless crimes lurk beneath rules that conceal them. Strange murders keep occurring, case after unsolved case piles up, and the truth is buried beyond reach. The protagonist, Lin Jin, carries a secret past. Meticulous, cool-headed, and decisive, he understands the darkness and loopholes beneath the rules of the martial world. He enters the treacherous maze alone, becoming a seeker of light. Following the smallest clues, he hunts for the trut 113Reads—Score—14d adds
2. 152 盛 The Beloved Cousin 盛宠表姑娘 Lazy Breeze Returning Late懒风晚归Ancient Romance582k WordsCompleted When Jiang Yunting first arrived in Bianjing, all she wanted was to be a well-behaved young cousin at the Duke of Dingguo's residence, enhance her standing, then marry her childhood sweetheart and live a smooth, happy life. But later, her fiancé turned his back on her for wealth and status, while the refined, aloof second cousin in the household began looking at her strangely, as if he wanted to devour her. When Shen Yu first met Jiang Yunting, he had one erotic dream after another. In his d 16.9kReads9.0Score2.1k14d adds

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   ① Jiang Yunting, upon arriving in Bianjing, only wished to be a dutiful young lady in the Duke of Dingguo's mansion, gaining prestige, marrying her childhood sweetheart, and living a carefree life. Unexpectedly, her fiancé abandoned her for wealth, while her aloof second cousin's gaze towards her grew increasingly strange. Meanwhile, Shen Yu, after meeting Jiang Yunting, fell into a series of erotic dreams, going from wanting to end them to being unable to stop. When these beautiful dreams become reality, how will they weave their own love-hate tales amidst the complex web of family relationships? ② In her past life, she married into the royal family, only to suffer the tragic end of her family's destruction. In this life, she is reborn with hatred, intending to avenge her family, but by a twist of fate, she becomes the matriarch of the Grand Secretariat, the wife of a high-ranking official. In the ever-changing court and inner court, how will she regain control of her destiny under her new identity? Will she perpetuate her hatred, or embark on a different life? Witness as she writes her own legend amidst the vortex of power and emotion! ③ Shen Yunshu, an archaeology major, has only been working for two years and loves history, especially the Yi Dynasty. After reading unofficial histories of the Yi Dynasty royal family, she unexpectedly transmigrates into the body of the legitimate daughter of the Prince of Zhenbei. Although born into the family of her idol and living a life of luxury, she is worried because she knows that the Prince of Zhenbei's family will be confiscated and exiled in the future. The boy she saves along the way turns out to be a high-ranking official who has served three emperors. In this unfamiliar and dangerous dynasty, how will she rewrite her destiny, and what kind of story will she and the boy create? ④ Qin Jianjian, who transmigrates into a palace maid, rises to the position of first-class palace maid in front of the Empress Dowager through diligence and flattery, earning a fortune and only hoping to retire from the palace. However, the emperor can read her mind, and his words, "I find your evil particularly interesting," shatter her plans. The female lead is not a kind person, and the male lead, the emperor, is not innocent either. What kind of sparks will this strange combination create in the palace? A thrilling and hilarious palace story unfolds!

3. 153 双 A Game of Two Faces 双面奕局 A Little Cabbage w一颗小白菜wHistorical148k WordsCompleted Seven years ago, Yan Chi, commander of the northern frontier, was betrayed by a close friend, branded a traitor, and saw his family wiped out. He barely escaped with his life. Seven years later, he returns to the imperial capital under the alias “Chen Yu,” a mysterious merchant. On the surface, he is a wealthy imperial merchant offering an auspicious treasure. In truth, he intends to make one grand move on the chessboard of power and bring down the dynasty in a game of revenge. 8Reads—Score—14d adds

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   Political intrigue, tight plot, high tension, and exceptionally high intelligence.

4. 154 内 The First Lady of the Cabinet 内阁第一夫人 Mo Tangtang墨汤汤Ancient Romance618k WordsCompleted In her previous life, she married into the imperial family in a high-status match, only to meet a tragic end. Her family was destroyed, and she lost everyone. In this life, all she wants is revenge, yet she becomes the wife of a Grand Secretary, the spouse of a powerful chancellor... 1.3kReads8.7Score13614d adds
5. 155 小 The Little Palace Maid's Thoughts Were Read 小宫女被读心了 Jiang Xiaoshi江小十Ancient Romance254k WordsCompleted After transmigrating into the palace as a maid, Qin Jianjian works diligently, flatters those above her, and deceives those below her. In the end, she becomes the top-ranked maid serving the Empress Dowager. She has undoubtedly reached the pinnacle of her profession. Money she’s openly entitled to, along with money she shouldn’t have, keeps flowing into Qin Jianjian’s pockets. Delighted, she just has to wait until she’s old enough to leave the palace and retire early. Who could have guessed the 14.7kReads9.4Score1.2k14d adds
6. 156 冷 Cold as Ice: My Heart Is Ice, His Heart Is Iron 冷若冰霜：妾心似冰郎心如铁 Xia Bing t夏冰tAncient Romance216k WordsCompleted He gently pressed his cold lips to the woman's forehead and said in a soft yet resolute voice, “Didn't you want to borrow my hand to get revenge? As long as you survive, I'll be the blade you use to take your revenge.” 9Reads—Score—14d adds

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   The male lead uses the female lead to reopen old grudges from ten years ago, while the female lead uses the male lead's influence to seek revenge. The second male lead, from being a son-in-law to squandering his inheritance, is a timid and cowardly man who commits a series of evil deeds.

7. 157 天 Supreme Destiny 天命最高 Sweet Dream Feather甜梦羽Historical180k WordsCompleted He was the “Qin dog” everyone in Handan hated, a hostage who trembled in his mother’s arms. Before the age of nine, he lived for one reason alone: to avoid being beaten to death by the people of Zhao. Then one day, his father died, and he became the King of Qin. The road back to Xianyang was strewn with thorns: his grandmother wanted to depose him, his younger brother wanted him dead, powerful ministers treated him like a puppet, and the queen dowager and her lover controlled the inner palace. H 10Reads—Score—14d adds

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   Who could have imagined that Qin Shi Huang, the emperor who conquered all before him, spent the first half of his life in misery? Returning to power, he faced enemies on all sides, forging his path to the throne through ruthless means. His heart was as hard as iron, unmoved by emotions, except for his deep affection for Epang, for whom he promised her the entire empire as his dowry. Just as he stabilized the court, a sudden crisis struck, forcing him to make a difficult choice between his empire and his lover.

8. 158 阎 The King of Hell's Agent Takes It Easy in the Cold Palace 阎王特工在冷宫摆烂 Offline Romance离线风月Ancient Romance273k WordsOngoing Palace intrigue + transmigration + lighthearted + strong heroine + secret identity + satisfying read + sweet romance Shen Yuan transmigrated into the body of a disgraced consort banished to the Cold Palace and thought: Could there be any better luck? A top agent in her previous life and an abandoned consort in the Cold Palace in this one, Shen Yuan thought this was the most comfortable assignment she'd had in either life. A private room with meals and lodging included, zero socializing, zero dut 818Reads—Score10614d adds

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   Intrigue and power struggles; everyone's IQ is online.

9. 159 福 The Sweet and Beautiful Imperial Concubine: The Abstinent Fourth Prince Dotes on Her 福晋娇又美：禁欲四爷宠上瘾 Wan Bao妧宝Ancient Romance2.4M WordsCompleted [One devoted couple + sweet romance] Tong Jia Ning Chuge, the legitimate daughter of Longkodo, was getting married. But on her wedding day, a princess snatched her groom right off the street. The poor girl fell out of her bridal sedan and died on the spot! The woman protested, “I just got here, and a bunch of people are already laughing at me for being a discarded wife. I can’t stand for this!” Just as she was racking her brains for a way to put them in their place, an imperial edict from Empero 24.1kReads9.4Score2.3k14d adds

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   This is a Qing Dynasty novel where the protagonist travels from the present to the present. The female lead transmigrates into the body of the Fourth Prince's wife, who is beautiful, sassy, and doted on. The male and female leads join forces and live happily ever after.

10. 160 重 Reborn as a Concubine in the Su Household 重生之我在苏府当小妾 Shangguan Loves to Drink Water上官爱喝水Ancient Romance377k WordsCompleted Nontraditional rebirth + women's self-rescue + psychological healing + original poetry + metafiction Don't let the title fool you. The original title was Dawn's Clear Light. Rebirth is the ultimate act of self-rescue. A profound story that is both heartbreaking and healing. Zheng Ming awoke after transmigrating, only to become the concubine of a powerful minister. She navigated the storms of political rivalries and stirred the winds of change across the realm, believing she was carefully plan 261Reads8.8Score—14d adds

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    The title might seem like a clichéd domestic drama, but clicking on it reveals a hidden gem. The author's writing is calm and collected, reminiscent of "Dream of the Red Chamber," with original poems serving not merely as embellishments but as a testament to the author's spirit. The female protagonist transmigrates into the body of a concubine, yet she is not confined to the inner quarters. She establishes a school, defies societal norms, and carves out a path for survival for countless women in a cutthroat world. The political intrigue is intricate, with clever plot twists, requiring careful and attentive reading. Emotions are portrayed with extreme restraint, yet are permeated with deep and lingering affection and regret. This is not a lighthearted read; it has a powerful impact and is suitable for readers willing to engage in thoughtful reflection.

11. 161 千 Qian Jinhuan 千锦欢 Yun Lingge云翎歌Ancient Romance229k WordsCompleted Completed · [A highly intelligent amnesiac fake princess x a cold, scheming prince] [Not a mindless power fantasy] [Both devoted to each other + classic historical romance + no transmigration, rebirth, or System + political intrigue + doting romance + reunion after a long separation + devotion to country and family + exclusive devotion + the one who got away + happy ending] For twenty years, the second prince of Nantang, Chu Jinyuan, has kept his guard up and trusted no one, until Hua Qianmei ar 503Reads8.1Score—14d adds

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    Perfectly fitting; the male and female leads are both incredibly intelligent, skilled in both academics and martial arts, constantly outwitting and outmaneuvering each other, yet deeply in love. There's no scumbag revenge or manipulative characters; every plot point is fresh and original.

12. 162 诡 The Fog of a Bizarre Case 诡案迷雾 Bystander Joe旁观路人甲Historical686k WordsOngoing A historical mystery and political intrigue novel set in the fictionalized Wu Zhou period of the Tang dynasty, around the fifteenth year of Wu Zhou. It follows the protagonist and his companions as they enter government service and become entangled in a series of criminal cases, as well as the gripping struggle over the succession to the throne at the Luoyang court. This is my second novel. I hope you enjoy it, and I’ll do my best to tell a good story! 92Reads—Score—14d adds

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    [Learned it][Added to bookshelf][Currently working on a manuscript][Sparrow's masterpiece] 👍 [Already want to read it!]

13. 163 重 Reborn to Marry an Old Widower, Pampered to Madness 重生嫁给老鳏夫，宠疯 A Page of Fireworks一纸烟火Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Political intrigue, ensemble cast, sweet romance, palace intrigue, revenge, taking down villains, a reborn princess marries the brother-in-law she had in her previous life and joins him in stirring up the court] In her previous life, Mu Yunlang was the least favored princess of the Great Qian dynasty, yet she married Shen Hongnian, the top-scoring candidate in the palace examinations, whom every noblewoman in the capital wanted to wed. She thought fate had finally smiled upon her. Little did sh 6.1kReads8.6Score81414d adds

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    Sovereignty intrigue, ensemble cast, revenge plot, a reborn princess marries her brother-in-law from her past life, together stirring up political turmoil.

14. 164 重 Reborn as His Majesty’s Most Treasured One 重生之成为了陛下的掌中宝 Chen Bushu陈不淑Ancient Romance184k WordsCompleted Ning Shaoyin was reborn, returning to a time before the Noble Consort arranged her marriage. In her previous life, she obeyed her family's wishes and married her cousin. She thought they would be a devoted couple, but accidentally discovered his affair with her female cousin. After he ascended the throne, he even killed her with his own hands, just so he could hand the position of empress to that cousin. In this life, Ning Shaoyin came to the capital to seek revenge, carefully planning every mov 12Reads—Score—14d adds

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    The female protagonist is reborn to seek revenge. In her previous life, she was murdered by a scumbag. In this life, she schemes her way out of poverty and, despite her humble origins, becomes allies with the male protagonist, a prince. Both the political and romantic storylines are well-developed, but the female protagonist is not a love-struck, clear-headed, and independent woman. The foreshadowing is quite clever.

15. 165 美 A Beauty Who Captivates the City, and the Scheming Imperial Guard Who Spoils Her Wildly 美人倾城，腹黑锦衣卫霸心狂宠 Sugar-Free Pineapple Milk Pudding菠萝奶冻不加糖Ancient Romance339k WordsCompleted A delicate, clever beauty and a cold, ruthless, scheming Commander of the Imperial Guards. Coercive romance, one couple only, both virgins, a little groveling, an alternate setting, and a happy ending. The hero is controlling, scheming, and no good man. There are some scenes of confinement later on. He absolutely spoils the heroine, but he’s also secretly a devoted puppy. The more of a jerk he is at first, the more meek and humble he becomes later. Wan Ying lost both her parents. To reclaim the 12.5kReads9.1Score1.3k14d adds

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    A seemingly delicate yet cunning beauty with a sharp mind, she skillfully navigates crises, strategizing meticulously at every turn. The plot is fast-paced, and the writing is smooth and nuanced. A five-star recommendation for fans of historical political intrigue!

16. 166 公 The Princess Isn't Human! And Neither Is Her Consort 公主殿下不是人！驸马他也不是 Wind Isle Song风屿吟Ancient Romance317k WordsOngoing [Underworld Empress: Cool and Unrivaled x Mad Demon Sovereign: A Bewitching Devoted Lapdog] [A powerful female lead, political intrigue, a romance between gods and demons, identity-reveal satisfaction, and a hilarious ensemble cast] This story defies convention and is well worth savoring! Jun Zhanyue, the Empress of Fengdu, fell in battle after suppressing a million vengeful ghosts. Her soul possessed a princess who had been murdered in nine consecutive lives. Little did she know that this trans 50Reads—Score—14d adds

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    Using a divine body to save all living beings, a god and demon both transmigrate to the mortal realm. The female lead is a goddess, aloof and invincible, while the male lead is a love-struck, devoted demon lord. To pursue the female lead, the male lead devises a series of schemes, and the two transmigrate to the mortal realm. The male lead disguises himself as a guard, serving the female lead like a lackey while secretly seizing her wealth.

17. 167 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 56.6kReads9.5Score7k14d adds
18. 168 朕 I Am Hongli, Building a Golden Age for the Qing Dynasty 朕是弘历打造大清盛世 Third Aunt from the Farm农家三姑Historical1.4M WordsOngoing [Political Intrigue + Harem Rivalries + Factional Strife + Romance + Emperor] Hongli ascended the throne at twenty-five and ruled for sixty years, making him the longest-reigning and longest-lived emperor in history. He governed with diligence, excelling in both civil and military affairs, and led the Qing to the height of its golden age. Yet factional strife raged through the court, conflicts in the deep palace never ceased, and danger lurked behind the splendor. In the end, the golden age ga 15.8kReads8.3Score43714d adds

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    A very exciting and enjoyable historical novel

19. 169 慈 Empress Dowager Cixi and Her Three Favored Eunuchs 慈禧皇后与她的三个宠爱太监 Farmer Third Young Master农家三少Historical3.7M WordsCompleted [Eunuchs + Palace Secrets + Empress Dowager Cixi + Court Intrigue] From the time Empress Dowager Cixi entered the palace to the day she ruled from behind the curtain, she shared an unusual relationship with three eunuchs: An Dehai, Li Lianying, and Xiao Dezhang. They were like master and servants, like friends, and more than anything, like old companions. She doted on the three eunuchs, who relied on her favor to do as they pleased, throw their weight around, and take part in court affairs. This 50.2kReads9.0Score3.1k14d adds
20. 170 寒 Lone Shadow over the Cold River, Moon-Hanging Blade 寒江孤影悬月刀 Cai Yuanwai蔡员外Historical491k WordsOngoing Hanjiang is a major military stronghold guarding the vital route between north and south, as well as a prosperous haven for merchants. It is said that its waters stretch for three thousand li, its sails carry grain from across the land, and its splendid nightlife rivals that of Jiangnan! Every faction in the realm has a foothold here, from warlords and great clans to martial arts sects and even the Buddhist and Taoist faiths. History-making battles... one coup after another, as power changes han 99Reads—Score—14d adds
21. 171 云 The Cloud Tower Rankings 云楼榜 Cai Yuanwai蔡员外Historical724k WordsCompleted A child abandoned during a time of war was reunited with his parents at the age of fourteen. Only then did he discover that his parents were the Great Yue Empire's Grand Generals Who Guard the Nation. But his true identity was even more astonishing: he was the leader of the world's most mysterious sect, as well as one of the few martial artists to have reached the Grandmaster realm... 824Reads5.2Score—14d adds
22. 172 锋 The Winds of Change in Fengge 锋戈之风起云涌 Cai Yuanwai蔡员外Historical801k WordsCompleted After a century of prosperity, the Great Yu Dynasty is in decline, beset by troubles at home and abroad. The court is in turmoil, and Xu Yunshan, the Great Yu's foremost commander, who had already retired to the mountains, is forced back into a web of intrigue and power struggles... 102Reads—Score—14d adds
23. 173 曲 The Song Ends, but We Remain 曲尽人未散 Yu Jinghao余静好Ancient Romance176k WordsCompleted She is a Minister of Rites' daughter, whose fiancé died and who is rumored to bring husbands to ruin. He is a dissolute prince. An imperial decree of marriage binds together two people who barely know each other. On their wedding night, she smiles and says, “Your Highness, why don't you take my pulse?” Looking into her eyes, he replies, “If the Princess Consort wants to inspect the goods, I shall gladly oblige.” 5Reads—Score—14d adds

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    A cool and talented woman versus a reserved and cunning prince. The Empress Dowager, after being rejected in her pursuit of love, administers a drug to the male lead that renders him infertile, and then issues another imperial decree ordering the female lead to become pregnant within a year. Watch how the couple joins forces to break this deadlock.

24. 174 恶 Reborn After My Own Son, the Cruel Empress Dowager, Stabbed Me to Death 恶毒太后被亲儿子捅死之后重生了 Ink墨色Ancient Romance1.9M WordsCompleted The vicious Empress Dowager Jiang Mingzhu was reborn. In her previous life, to put her son on the throne, she poisoned and tried to assassinate the emperor, colluded with court officials, drugged a pregnant consort to make her miscarry, and plotted against the young crown prince. Every time she schemed, she put her own life on the line to grind her stepson's face into the dirt. But when the plot to put the son she'd worked so hard to support on the throne was exposed, he stabbed her in the back 19.6kReads8.9Score2.1k14d adds

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    This is the only novel I've read from beginning to end by Guo, without skipping a single chapter. The author's literary skills are solid; throughout the entire work, every character feels fully developed and vibrant. The protagonist has a decisive and ruthless side, while the antagonist also possesses a tender and compassionate side. The plot is also intricately woven, without abrupt changes or jumps in direction. Several chapters in the later stages were particularly moving. Highly recommended!!! "A concubine's position? Haha? I entered officialdom to become an empress, otherwise what am I doing? Forgot to cook for the enemy?" "Since I entered officialdom, I didn't come here to be bullied. If others don't offend me, I'll try my best not to offend them. But if someone offends me, I'll first call them 'not good enough' three times, and then wish them a long and healthy life!" Aren't these two sentences from the female lead sarcastic? This is a pure political intrigue novel, where the entire plot culminates in the alliance of many women to overthrow the scumbag emperor and seize power... The schemes are intricately linked, making it quite exciting... And the fact that this excellent political intrigue novel is written by a male author is truly admirable (and a little unbelievable, haha)... The most regrettable character in this novel is Sister Wan; her family and children all died, and in the end, she even lost her purple clay teapot. It feels like the author was just exploiting her, which is quite heartbreaking... I hope the epilogue brings Sister Wan happiness and good health.

25. 175 寒 The Day the Frozen Coffin Knocks on the Capital’s Gates, the Reborn Female General Slaughters the Phoenix Clan and Her Kin 寒棺叩京日，重生女将屠凤灭族亲 Hua Yue Ming花月冥Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Historical intrigue + strong female lead + dark, unhinged characters + handsome men + reborn revenge + redemption] When the new emperor ascended the throne, my mother beat the grievance drum and accused me of murdering my siblings, stealing their achievements, and basking in imperial favor. The new emperor, who had once called me his brother, sentenced me to be sliced to death. My younger sister tore out my tongue, and my stepson severed the tendons in my hands and feet. But even those 3,312 cu 17.9kReads7.9Score2.8k14d adds

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    A political intrigue novel where the protagonist is reborn but doesn't seek revenge; it's just a side story.

26. 176 黑 The Black Heiress 黑千金 Song Xiangbai宋象白Modern Romance682k WordsCompleted Zhou Zhizhi was born a wealthy heiress, but she was abandoned in a remote county and taken in by a man who had just been released from prison after serving time for a serious crime. At just five years old, she was already able to save her father. Later, she also brought home an old scholar and former examination candidate, and the three of them began building a life together. The hardened criminal turned into a coal magnate, while the abandoned girl became a true heiress of the underworld. How w 33.2kReads9.3Score4.5k14d adds
27. 177 昭 The Chaos of Zhaohua 昭华乱 See Fortune at First Sight, Meow一见生财瞄Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Available in print. Search "Zhaohua Rebellion" on any platform to purchase.] [Strong female lead, satisfying revenge, high-IQ palace intrigue, the heroine schemes against the entire harem, a dangerously unhinged antagonist] Song Zhao has always been a woman who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, and she has always seen the world more clearly than anyone else. From the moment she learned that Xiao Jingheng had chosen her to enter the palace as a consort, her goal was crystal clear: "I en 87.1kReads9.5Score9.7k14d adds
28. 178 长 The Grand Princess Knocked the Transmigrator's Head Clean Off 长公主把穿越女头都打飞了 Camellias and Wine茶花与酒Ancient Romance301k WordsCompleted Her younger brother brought home a woman who had transmigrated, and from then on he became a lovesick fool... The transmigrator could recite poetry, knew military strategy, and could make explosives. Her brother loved her to the point of obsession. The younger brother who had always respected her poisoned himself, surrendered his power, and even gave up the throne for that woman. Reborn, she thought, a lovesick fool? No problem. I'll make sure you two are stuck together forever. An ungrateful, i 1.6kReads8.5Score22114d adds
29. 179 收 Get a Grip, and I’ll Make You Reach for the Stars! 收收心，爷让你高攀！ Yu Susu雨酥酥Ancient Romance663k WordsCompleted Not a strong-female-lead story, and not a power fantasy! [Romance-focused + transmigration in infancy + possessive pursuit + intense push and pull + angst and sweetness + sex before love + a husband chasing his wife to the crematorium + taming a dog] Deliberate seduction X clear-eyed surrender. A disastrous start from the moment she transmigrates, when she is nearly drowned in a chamber pot, combined with traditional son preference, a feudal society where the law does not reach the countryside, 33.2kReads9.1Score3.9k14d adds
30. 180 长 Your Highness, Please Don’t Spare Me 长公主您莫怜惜 That Tree on the Island孤岛那棵树Ancient Romance320k WordsCompleted [Both leads reborn + strong female lead + sexual tension + political intrigue + past and present lives] #Wild and aloof, ambitious and formidable princess × obsessive but restrained, lovesick and devoted shadow guard [1] The eldest princess of the Southern Kingdom wields power with ease and can charm anyone without even trying, but never gives her heart away. Who could have guessed she would be betrayed when she least expected it, only to discover that her sweet, obedient little shadow guard, wh 1.9kReads9.0Score24414d adds
31. 181 新 Newlywed Unmasked: The Top Tycoon Disguised as a Crown Princess 新婚掉马：顶级大佬伪装太子妃 Three Claws三只爪Ancient Romance393k WordsCompleted [Marriage first, love later + equally matched powerhouses + disguises + slow burn + wits and courage + mutual healing + palace intrigue] Rumor has it that the Crown Prince of Chu is blind, his internal organs are failing, and he will not live to see winter. The princess sent to marry him is said to be a weakling who does nothing but cry. On their wedding night, assassins sneak in. The princess is so frightened that she drops her teacup, but a shard happens to slice an assassin’s throat. The Crow 2.2kReads—Score32814d adds

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    A marriage of convenience that blossoms into love, featuring two strong, slow-burning protagonists, a battle of wits, and mutual redemption. Rumor has it that the Crown Prince of Chu is blind and his internal organs are failing, not surviving past winter; while the princess sent for a political marriage is a weak and useless woman who only knows how to cry. On their wedding night, an assassin sneaks in, and the princess, startled, smashes a teacup, a shard of which accidentally cuts the assassin's throat; the Crown Prince weakly shrinks into the bed, but the silver needle on his fingertip accidentally pierces the assassin's vital point. The entire court awaits the spectacle of this short-lived couple's downfall. Until one dark and stormy night, the world's greatest poison doctor, Yaksha, and the leader of the Assassin's Guild, Yama, fight fiercely for the divine elixir, tearing off each other's masks, and both fall silent. Chu Mochen approached, his voice low and deep: "My beloved consort, your night attire is far more beautiful than your phoenix coronet and wedding robes during the day." Yan Yunqi sneered, brandishing her poisoned needle: "Your Highness, even with your eyes still open and your temper flaring, you're still much more pleasing to the eye than during the day!" When a dramatic princess with a built-in armor that reflects physical attacks tenfold meets a powerful, sickly tycoon, the entire capital is left in tears!

32. 182 救 Help! The Prime Minister's Legitimate Daughter Smiles as She Wipes Out an Entire Household 救命，相府嫡女眉眼含笑灭人满门 Holding a Brush to Tie Up My Hair执笔绾青丝Ancient Romance293k WordsCompleted (Complete. Clear-headed, unhinged black-moonlight heroine + lovesick, possessive villainous male lead + household and political intrigue + mutual salvation + happy ending) You deliberately seduced me, and I willingly walked into your trap. On the first day after being reborn, Ji Yang opened her eyes and came face-to-face with the man who had opposed her at every turn in her previous life. So she lured him into prison and forced him to do whatever she asked. In this life, she wouldn't just make h 2.1kReads9.2Score27914d adds
33. 183 山 Spring Comes to the Mountain Woods 山木逢春 The Fly Doesn't Fly乌蝇不飞Ancient Romance263k WordsOngoing [Two formidable leads + court intrigue + kindred spirits + growing together + long live idealism] Censor Zhou Huaiyue is ordered to investigate a fire at the salt warehouse. A token belonging to the Fang family is found in the ashes. Armed with an imperial edict, he turns the Fang family’s estate upside down, determined to find the statue of an evil god rumored to be enshrined in their inner residence. He doesn’t find the statue. Instead, he brings out a young woman who seems detached in both 43Reads—Score13514d adds

    Reader note

    A traditional literary style, combining strengths of ancient romance. The male protagonist has read countless books, and the female protagonist has traveled far and wide; their brief encounter surpasses countless romances in the mortal world.

34. 184 我 After I Died, the Beautiful Hostage Jumped from the City Tower 我死后，美人质子他跳了城楼 Jiujiu Qi久久萋Ancient Romance379k WordsCompleted [The writing falls apart, don't read...] [Reborn + doted on by everyone + sweet romance] [Relationship-focused / devoted couple / not much revenge or face-slapping] [Warning: Aside from his good looks and his love for the female lead, the male lead is good for nothing] Only after Jiang Yichi died did she learn that what she'd once believed was fate had been a lie. Everything the scumbag enjoyed had been stolen from that man. She watched that man take revenge for her by personally killing her ene 5.6kReads9.2Score41114d adds
35. 185 大 The Great Qi Marquis of One Step 大齐一步侯 A Single Thought of Nothingness一念无Historical846k WordsCompleted [Alternate history, airtight logic, a treat to listen to, multiple heroines, lighthearted daily life, the jianghu and court politics, love and hate, national and family vendettas...] A modern-day criminal investigator transmigrates into the body of a minor official in the State of Qi. At first, his only dream is to stay alive. But when foreign barbarians invade the Central Plains, slaughtering and pillaging until the kingdom falls and families are torn apart, he has no choice but to enter the fr 17kReads8.2Score1k14d adds

    Reader note

    A historical fiction novel of exceptionally high quality, perfect for both listening and reading. Clear logic, well-developed characters, rich plot, and tight writing. Not a formulaic, fast-paced read. Please enjoy! 💕

36. 186 春 Moonlight Falls on Blossoms in the Spring Courtyard 春庭月照落花 The Plainspoken Baili Che简单明了的百里澈Ancient Romance355k WordsCompleted The safe and smooth life of a noble young lady. Seen through Luo Yunchu's eyes, the colorful lives of those around her unfold. Everyone has their disappointments, and beneath every seemingly foolish decision lies the best choice they could make at the time. 3.3kReads8.0Score24514d adds

    Reader note

    Give it a try, it's really good. After it ended, the rating went from around six points to eight.

37. 187 启 Your Highness, the Regent Is Fighting with the Emperor for Your Favor Again 启禀长公主，摄政王又跟皇上争宠 A Little Flower一枝小花儿Ancient Romance100k WordsOngoing Princess Jiang Ning was not of royal blood. Her mother died in childbirth. The late emperor hoped she would die young. Just as she was being driven out of the palace to fend for herself, He Cangming took her back to the Eastern Palace. He became her crown prince brother, the best in the world, with eyes and a heart for her alone. The scandal that Jiang Ning had fallen for He Cangming spread across the capital overnight, and she was sent away from the city to avoid suspicion. Three years later, J —Reads—Score—14d adds
38. 188 大 Ming's God of War, Zhu Di 大明战神朱棣 Shu Yao Jiu舒窈纠Historical472k WordsCompleted Why do we love reading about him? Because he lived the way we wish we could: if you don’t like it, fight! If you lose, own it! If you win, don’t brag. He feigned madness, played the fool, and even ate pig feed in a pigsty. Then he fought his way from Beiping to Nanjing and seized the dragon throne with his own hands. Zhu Di, the fourth son of Zhu Yuanzhang, was twenty when he was sent to govern Beiping. No one had any faith in this “Fourth Son.” His imperial father suspected him, his nephew trie 20.2kReads8.3Score1.4k14d adds

    Reader note

    Planning strategies for the future of the empire. A story of passionate patriotism for the Ming Dynasty and the patriotic Zhu Di. Highly recommended! 👍❤️❤️

39. 189 莫 Don't Wait Until the Flowers Fade to Pluck a Branch 莫待无花须折枝 Old Rogue Cao Cao曹操老贼Ancient Romance265k WordsCompleted [Revenge | Shocking Twists | Multiple Male Leads | Alternate History] Everyone in the capital knew that Chen Yunshu, the mad princess, would never find a husband. Until an imperial edict of marriage arrived at the Wei residence. It forced Chen Yunshu, the most notorious mad princess in all of Great Chen, into Wei Yu’s bed. The whole city sighed. The young master of the Wei family was done for! Ever since Chen Yunshu entered the general’s residence, there had not been a single day of peace. 150Reads—Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    The female lead is truly amazing. She gradually infiltrated the palace, killed the emperor to avenge herself, became the Empress Dowager, and seized control of the court. She only loved power, not men.

40. 190 穿 Transmigrated to a World in Chaos, She Refuses to Be a Beauty 穿越乱世，她才不要做佳人 Xiaoxiao Fish Resting潇潇鱼歇Ancient Romance310k WordsCompleted [Plot-driven + political intrigue + light ensemble cast + female protagonist + light romance] Xu Wan transmigrates into a book set in a chaotic era, only to become an anonymous passerby. The System hunts her down because she carries software that has nothing to do with the book. She thinks that escaping the original plot will let her lie flat for good, but after witnessing the bloodshed and chaos of the era with her own eyes, she steps back into the world. • This time, her forceful interventi 15Reads—Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    This is a historical romance novel about political intrigue. The female protagonist rises from an unknown person in a chaotic world to a powerful warlord. She experiences helplessness, acceptance, and growth, and most importantly, she has the courage to ask heaven for another son. She overcomes obstacles and uses her wisdom to protect her true self.

41. 191 大 A Blessed Heir for the Ming Dynasty: The Empress Begs Every Day to Be Deposed 大明好孕：皇后娘娘她日日求被废 Qing Suisui卿岁岁Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted They are not mutually exclusive, and this book covers quite a lot of Ming dynasty history. Some details may not be accurate, so please bear with me. Thank you. Jing Shu transmigrated as Hu Shanxiang, the most useless empress in the Great Ming dynasty, and nearly fell apart. Sun was Zhu Zhanji’s childhood sweetheart. Jing Shu was at best a lucky charm her family had offered to the imperial household. How could she possibly compete with Sun? So, knowing how history would unfold, Jing Shu simply g 4.4kReads9.1Score29014d adds

    Reader note

    [Palace Intrigue × Power Strategies × High-Energy Twists] Three Ancient-Style Shura Fields Alert! The Ultimate Palace Intrigue Master – How to Turn "Easy Win" into "Madness" in the Heartless Palace! ① *The Legend of the Deposed Empress of the Ming Dynasty* – A True Account of a Virtuous Empress's Dark Turn! The Emperor promised "no deposing the Empress," yet he wrote love poems to the Consort overnight? Watch as the Empress uses her tea ceremony to defeat her beloved, wielding palace rules and silver needles to riddle the scumbag Emperor and his favored concubine with holes. ② *The Splendid Years of an Old Aunt in the Marquis's Mansion* – A 36-year-old office worker transmigrates into the body of an old aunt in a Marquis's mansion, only to have her monthly allowance withheld at the start? Laughable! She flips the table and makes money! Raising courtesans, opening restaurants, and adopting godsons, she infuriates the Marquis: "Is this what you call being law-abiding?" ③ *Entering the Palace to Secure Favor for My Eldest Sister, But Becoming the Emperor's Beloved* – The Ultimate Substitute Novel! My eldest sister is reborn, stealing my palace entrance script, and then sends me to be cannon fodder? Little did she know that the emperor had already changed his soul, and when he lifted his dragon robe, he was revealed to be the enemy who had wiped out her entire family in her past life... In this torturous love affair, whoever falls in love first loses!

42. 192 替 A Bride Swap for Good Luck! My Brother-in-Law Has Gone on a Killing Spree 替嫁冲喜！小叔子他杀疯了 Moonlit Riverside Post Station月满江驿Ancient Romance150k WordsOngoing [Substitute Marriage] [Revenge] [Pseudo-Forbidden Love] [No Golden Finger, No Transmigration, No Rebirth] [Pure Historical Romance of Family and Country] [Brooding Wolfdog x Aloof Beauty x Venomous Femme Fatale] Gu Heng takes her sister's place in a marriage meant to bring good fortune, but her husband dies suddenly, making her the widowed sister-in-law who has no right to remain alive in the Liu family. The entire household accuses her of bringing her husband bad luck. Her stepmother wants her —Reads—Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    A story combining a substitute marriage for good luck, face swapping, and revenge!!! A wife-chasing nightmare!!! This male lead is truly wickedly charming and arrogant!!!

43. 193 大 The Madam Only Wants to Lie Flat 大娘子只想躺平 Sheng Mian盛眠Ancient Romance721k WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + everyday life + transmigrating into a book + the steady, gradual progress of a woman in her thirties living in ancient times] After transmigrating into a book as a marquis’s daughter-in-law, she finds herself middle-aged, with elders to care for and children to raise. Her mother-in-law dislikes her, her cold husband is alive but as good as dead, and she never sees him. His concubine keeps making a fuss to get attention, while her three biological children are cl 11.2kReads9.0Score1.6k14d adds
44. 194 去 The Lanterns Shone Like Day on Last Year's Lantern Festival 去年元夜灯如昼 Xu Wei栩唯Ancient Romance584k WordsOngoing [Amnesiac Grand Princess × Cold-Faced Court Official | Escape from the Imperial Mausoleum | Palace Intrigue and Political Scheming | Mutual Redemption] A great fire turns her from the most honored princess of the Li Song dynasty into a palace maid assigned to guard the Yanyang Imperial Mausoleum, someone everyone avoids. She has forgotten who she is and everything she once had. Her greatest wish each day is to make it out of the mausoleum alive. But its rules are strict, and the first one is nev 22Reads8.5Score20014d adds

    Reader note

    My top recommendation is "Last January, the Lanterns Were Bright as Day." It's not just about political intrigue; the love story is interwoven with the cruelty of power. The book is set in the imperial court, revealing the treacherous nature of people. There's no mindless, enjoyable entertainment; danger lurks everywhere, and every wrong step can lead to utter ruin.

45. 195 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. 6.1kReads9.3Score87814d adds
46. 196 小 With My Hands Behind My Back, I Transmigrated to the 1970s, Where I Can Make Trouble and Money with Ease 小手一背穿七零，搞事赚钱样样行 Heavy Clouds云沉沉Modern Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Also known as "Transmigrating into a Book Set in the Seventies: I Collect Eighty-Eight Paychecks Every Month" Su He woke up one day and transmigrated into a period novel, becoming a fake heiress who had been sent back to her village. In the book, the ungrateful real heiress was practically blessed by cheat codes, with schemes and tricks appearing one after another. The Su family ended up destroyed, while the original owner wished she were dead. Looking at her impoverished home and family members 102.5kReads9.6Score10.2k14d adds
47. 197 山 Beauty and Strategy in a Land of Rivers and Mountains 山河美人谋 Moonset月落Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Proud young lady who always gets even vs. frail, scheming Ninth Prince] Her fiancé was a total jerk, and he was planning to kill her to keep her quiet. Ye Jiao decided to strike first and find a scapegoat while she was at it. She thought the scapegoat would be a transparent, sickly “living corpse,” but rumors were misleading. He was clearly a two-faced, deeply cunning Ninth Prince. After Ye Jiao used the Ninth Prince’s name to punish her scumbag fiancé, Li Ce, the real Ninth Prince: “Miss, I be 18.3kReads9.5Score2.6k14d adds

    Reader note

    1. A pure historical romance. Ye Jiao, the second young lady of the Duke of Anguo's mansion, is a sunny and straightforward girl. However, on the eve of her engagement, she discovers that her fiancé has not only betrayed their relationship but also attempted to kill her to cover it up. To protect herself, she temporarily pulls in a sickly young man as a scapegoat, but unexpectedly, this Ninth Prince Li Ce, rumored to be a "living dead," turns out to be a highly cunning and powerful strategist. 2. It gained popularity for its "female lead a scumbag, male lead reborn twice + male lead transmigrates" premise. 3. I especially love the female lead's personality; she's never resentful from beginning to end. As the book says, she'll eat anything, but she'll never suffer a loss. The writing is very smooth, and it's a very enjoyable read.

48. 198 穿 Transmigrate, Sister; Reborn, Sister: Slaughter Through the Marquis's Household and Claim the Empress's Throne 穿越姐，重生妹，杀穿侯府登后位 Lady of the Clouds云端女公子Ancient Romance271k WordsCompleted Miao Miaomiao transmigrated into a book, becoming a supporting character with the same name. Miao Qiqi was reborn, returning to the time before she was married. In their previous lives, both met tragic ends. The Miao family, rich enough to rival a kingdom, was framed by the marquis's household and stripped of its wealth, until the entire family was sentenced to death. One transmigrated from another world; the other returned reborn. The twin blossoms of the richest family join forces to take reve 16Reads6.6Score—14d adds

    Reader note

    The female protagonist is neither intellectually deficient nor driven by romantic feelings; she is clear-headed, courageous, and resourceful. The author's writing is superb.

49. 199 换 My Short-Lived Husband Is Counting on Me to Save Him With My Superpower 换来的短命夫君，要靠我用异能救 Brave Little Chunk勇敢的小肥肉Ancient Romance706k WordsCompleted Wish fulfillment + a golden finger + a pocket dimension + no putting up with mistreatment Zuo Qixing, who came from the apocalypse, transmigrates into a book. Now she has the following problems: Her illegitimate younger sister insists on swapping betrothed partners. Zuo Qixing: “Fine. As long as the terms are right, we can talk about anything.” The fiancé she gets in the swap is short-lived. Zuo Qixing: “Whatever. It’s not as if I’m going bankrupt, and besides, I have wood-based powers.” T 10.9kReads9.2Score1.2k14d adds
50. 200 重 Reborn: Phoenix’s Vengeance 重生：凰杀 Lady of the Clouds云端女公子Ancient Romance235k WordsCompleted Who says women don’t understand power games or deserve to rule? In her previous life, Wu Anle gave her heart to the wrong man and married the unloved, powerless Third Prince. He used the Wu family’s influence to seize the throne. After years of plotting, the once-glorious Wu clan, which had flourished for over seven centuries, came crashing down. More than seven hundred Wu family heads were piled into a monument meant to intimidate the great clans. Her grandmother, nearly a hundred years old, wa 3Reads7.0Score—14d adds

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