Pure Palace Intrigue, Palace Intrigue, Seeking Recommendations 纯宫斗，宫斗，在线求书

1. 51 整 Reforming the Harem, Starting with the Cold Palace’s Most Stubborn Resident 整顿后宫，从冷宫钉子户开始 One Dashing Stroke帅的一撇Ancient Romance258k WordsCompleted A lighthearted comedy. No need to think too hard. From the start, she lands in the Cold Palace. Out of my way! I'm taking the empress's guide to the top and whipping the harem into shape. A modern professional assassin, she is transported into the cutthroat imperial harem. She slaps the all-powerful seal-holding eunuch and makes bombs by hand. She gets the imperial consorts in line and leads the abandoned women of the Cold Palace to wealth. She believes that if you can settle things with y 228Reads6.7Score—Shelves

   Reader note

   This book is very good.

2. 52 重 Reborn: The Prince's Beloved Black Lotus 重生：王爷的心尖黑莲花 One Thought to Forget Worries一念忘忧Ancient Romance163k WordsCompleted [Revenge and scum-bag takedown + medical and poison space + sweet romance with a wolfish prince] In her previous life, Xiao Lengyue gave her heart to the wrong man. Her faithless lover plotted against her father and brothers, then let her half-sister kill her child. She died consumed by hatred. When she opens her eyes again, her dagger strikes at the person before her with murderous force. But the voice behind the silver mask belongs to Jun Moyan, the fearsome War God Prince everyone dreaded in 112Reads9.0Score—Shelves
3. 53 你 You Had an Affair with My Older Sister, So I Faked My Death and Married into the Crown Prince's Palace! 你与嫡姐有私情，我死遁嫁东宫！ Cangyuan Fishshun沧渊鱼顺Ancient Romance234k WordsCompleted [Clear-headed transmigrated-into-a-book heroine + scumbag husband’s arduous pursuit + fated emperor hero fighting to claim her] Su Qiyue used her knowledge of the future to help Huo Yanzhi, a crippled, discarded son living in the cold palace, rise step by step to power. But just before their wedding, she discovered that the scumbag had betrayed her, carrying on with her legitimate elder sister, the very woman who had bullied her as a child and murdered her mother. The scumbag even wanted to demo 2.1kReads8.7Score209Shelves
4. 54 侯 The Marquess's Wife Wants to Die of Old Age in Peace 侯府主母要寿终正寝 Winter Melon Eats Pears冬瓜吃梨Ancient Romance553k WordsCompleted A history major pulls an all-nighter and dies suddenly, only to become Chen Yuhu, the matriarch of an ancient household, with no golden finger whatsoever. But you have to learn to be content. As a modern, clear-eyed college student, Chen Yuhu wants to tell the original matriarch: don't be such a lovesick fool. Treasure your life of immense wealth and status. She certainly does. She sends her biased mother-in-law away to cultivate in seclusion, keeps the obedient and pretty concubine around to pl 33.8kReads9.2Score3.3kShelves

   Reader note

   "The Arrogant Concubine Rises to Power Through Palace Intrigue, All Others Retreat!" The female lead is no pushover. After entering the palace, she uses her arrogance and clear-headedness to outwit the concubines and thwart their schemes. She's not driven by love or empty promises, and she rises to power through intrigue. The palace intrigue is incredibly satisfying! Watch as she turns the harem upside down and maintains her high position! "The Lady of the Marquis's Mansion is Dying a Natural Death!" The original owner of this body transmigrates into the body of the lady of a marquis's mansion. She has lived a life of misery and is nearing her end, but the female lead arrives and changes her fate! With modern thinking and a thorough understanding of the rules of palace and domestic intrigue, she deals with unruly servants, controls concubines, and manipulates her husband, cleaning up all the evil spirits in the mansion. A fast-paced and satisfying read! "The Empress is Both Sickly and Alluring, Stealing the Throne Through Palace Intrigue" The female protagonist follows a sickly and alluring pathetic route. On the surface, she appears weak and pitiful, but in reality, she is cunning and ruthless, manipulating the emperor and the harem with ease. Every step of her palace intrigue is precisely calculated, climbing from a lowly concubine to the empress. The villainous female lead's perspective on palace intrigue is incredibly engaging, with no slapstick moments throughout. "I'm a Psychology PhD, Ruining the Palace with Ease" A psychology PhD transmigrates into the body of a nobody in the deep palace. Using her professional knowledge, she manipulates people's hearts and anticipates her opponents' schemes. The concubines' petty thoughts are completely transparent to her. Palace intrigue becomes her "psychological practice class," crushing her opponents without lifting a finger. High-IQ palace intrigue is incredibly satisfying to read. Enough said, fellow bookworms, just read them! Each one is a masterpiece!!! As a seven-year veteran reader, I guarantee you, if you don't like it, come find me! Highly recommended for those who love palace intrigue novels!!!

5. 55 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 88.6kReads9.5Score9.7kShelves
6. 56 疯 Mad Empress: I’ll Be the Harem’s Number One White Lotus 疯批皇后，争做后宫第一白莲花 Luo Zhi洛枝Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Transmigration into a fictional setting + highly intelligent heroine in palace intrigue + face-slapping + a volatile, multifaceted personality + not a clean romance] Lin Junxue transmigrated to the Xie Dynasty, an era that had never existed in history, and ended up as an unloved empress who had no idea how she died. She’d thought she was a powerless, unloved empress, but it turned out the original owner’s father was a first-rank military marquis, a loyal servant of the court for three generatio 23.3kReads9.1Score2.6kShelves
7. 57 皇 Has the Noble Consort Left Qirong Palace Today? 皇贵妃今天出栖容宫了吗？ Xiaoman Crisp小满酥Ancient Romance528k WordsCompleted [☆No transmigration, no rebirth, and no pristine couples] [☆The romance develops gradually] Everyone in the palace knew that the person they must never offend was neither the pampered and fiery Noble Consort Hui nor the peerlessly beautiful Consort Cen, but Noble Consort Zhe of Qirong Palace, Lady Fucha. A consort's guide to survival: If you want to get ahead, never provoke the lady of Qirong Palace. She was the emperor's first woman, his companion and confidante since their youth; the mother 15kReads9.3Score1.3kShelves
8. 58 在 Making Friends in Empresses in the Palace, All to Become the Empress Dowager 在甄嬛传广交友，一切为了当太后 Where the Moon Rests月安在Female-Channel Fanfiction626k WordsCompleted Li Huimin, a level-ten Zhen Huan drama fanatic, transmigrates one day and finds herself reborn as the previously nonexistent eldest daughter of the Xilingjueluo family? My father is E'ertai. This is a sure thing: a trusted confidant of the Yongzheng Emperor and a regent, so I can thrive under his protection. Other women enter the palace on their looks. I have my father to thank. Having a good dad really does let you do as you please. Zhen Huan and Shen Meizhuang are all in love with the emperor? 2.4kReads9.0Score183Shelves
9. 59 栖 Bough of the Phoenix Perch 栖凰枝 Lu Shiqi鹿时七Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted [Short drama now available. Search "A Sigh for Youth". Starring Mi Qi and Wang Kang] Also known as "I'm a Psychology PhD, and I'll Slaughter My Way Through the Palace" Palace intrigue + sweet romance + not both leads' first relationship + heroine focused on her career On her first day after transmigrating into the harem, Jiang Xinyue fell out of favor. Everyone said she was nothing but a pretty face, a vase. On her second day after transmigrating into the harem, Jiang Xinyue regained the emperor 36.8kReads9.4Score4.2kShelves
10. 60 娘 The Empress Is Alluring and Delicate, and the Cold, Cruel Emperor Falls for Her at First Sight 娘娘娇娇媚，冷戾帝王一见倾心 The Star Among the Stars in the Sky天上星星的星星Ancient Romance460k WordsCompleted [Palace intrigue and revenge, a slow-burn, slow-payoff story + stunning heroine + exceptionally clearheaded heroine with an unwavering goal] [The hero always favors the heroine + dotes on her exclusively in the middle + disbands his harem later] After Shen Qingtang’s aunt is schemed against and killed by Madam Shen, her goal becomes perfectly clear: she will enter the palace, become the most honored woman in the land, and make everyone who plotted against her aunt pay. She is also perfectly clea 4.9kReads9.1Score533Shelves
11. 61 囚 The Tale of Imprisoned Jade 囚玉传 King of Rock Sugar Pork Knuckles冰糖肘子大王Ancient Romance1.1M WordsOngoing 196Reads8.1Score101Shelves

    Reader note

    Yes, yes, the writing is very good.

12. 62 侯 The Marquis's Estate Forgot Its Gratitude? The Regent Backs Me, and I Won't Forgive Them 侯府忘恩义？摄政王撑腰，不原谅 Chu Diandian初点点Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted Luo Ning took a blade meant for the Empress Dowager and suffered severe injuries, trading her life for her family's noble title. She went south to recuperate for three years, but when she returned, she discovered that her maternal cousin had taken over her courtyard. Her cousin had even replaced her in every aspect. Luo Ning's parents and elder brother adored her, her grandmother favored her, and even Luo Ning's childhood sweetheart secretly admired her, saying that she surpassed Luo Ning in eve 185.1kReads9.4Score27.7kShelves
13. 63 沈 The Shen Family’s Fifth Young Lady 沈家五姑娘 Boiled Radish Slices水煮萝卜片Ancient Romance763k WordsCompleted Reborn as the Shen family's Fifth Miss, she no longer envies the wealthy and powerful, yearns for a harmonious household with a husband and concubines, or hopes to win her in-laws' approval. All she wants is to meet a good man and live in peace and happiness. Of course, she'll repay those who harmed her in her past life with vengeance, and those who helped her with gratitude. But what's going on? What is going on with that man? So it was him, after all. 23.6kReads9.1Score2.7kShelves
14. 64 当 Back Then, I Refused to Marry the East Wind (A Companion to A Spring Rain on a Night in a Small Tower, a Historical Pride and Prejudice) 当年不肯嫁东风（《小楼一夜听春雨》姊妹篇，古代版傲慢与偏见) Bright Moon Tilts明月倾Ancient Romance556k WordsCompleted [Sisters united + rekindled romance + historical ensemble cast] The Ye sisters’ battle to protect their romantic prospects: a long-planned, romantic counterattack. With sisters sticking together, nothing is too difficult! After their mother died, the three Ye sisters broke with their father, who favored his concubine and neglected his wife. They lived in a separate residence and took in A Cuo, the adopted daughter of their late maternal aunt, relying on one another to get by. Four years ago, the 17.2kReads9.6Score2.8kShelves
15. 65 金 The Golden Palace Locks Away the Spring Breeze 金阙锁春风 Cai Wangwang菜汪汪Ancient Romance757k WordsCompleted Her entire family perished, she was left dependent on others, the dynasty fell, and she married and divorced. In just eighteen years, Yu Zheng has endured things most people never face in a lifetime. A noblewoman of the former dynasty, all she wants now is to stay alive. She plans to enter the palace as a maid, then use her literacy to earn a post as a court official and support herself. She never imagined that the new emperor would send her to the Fourth Prince’s residence as a gesture of goodw 21.6kReads9.2Score2.3kShelves
16. 66 贵 The Noble Consort Is Cool and Aloof, and the Emperor Yearns for Her Night After Night 贵妃清冷，圣上夜夜相思 Que Ling Yan Zi雀翎宴子Ancient Romance448k WordsCompleted Shen Qinghe was in the bloom of youth when she entered the palace, where she weathered its intrigues for more than a decade. She had hoped to leave with a reward one day, or perhaps spend her whole life peacefully as a palace official. But then an order came down, and one day she unexpectedly became an imperial consort. She watched these women fight day after day, never expecting to become entangled in their schemes herself. Shen Qinghe could only sigh. He was the emperor, and she was a palac 13.3kReads9.1Score1.2kShelves
17. 67 侯 Jiang Congnan, the Marquis's Eldest Daughter 侯门长女江从南 Meng Ri Wan梦日万Ancient Romance608k WordsCompleted The marquis’s principal wife had only two daughters. Who would inherit the title? Until she was twelve, Jiang Congnan was pampered at home like a treasured guest. That year, seeing her mother tormented by her grandmother for failing to bear a son, she made a bold move: she went to Qingfeng Abbey outside the city, took up a lay practitioner’s life, and prayed for her grandmother’s good fortune. She stayed there for three years. Three years later, the question of who would inherit the title of Mar 4.5kReads8.8Score501Shelves
18. 68 青 The Tale of Qingluo 青萝顾 Nervous Well Frog神经井底蛙Ancient Romance721k WordsCompleted Tired of mindless stories? Why not try something that’ll make you think! A wealthy young woman who studied abroad at a national academy wakes up as the concubine-born son’s wife in the Marquis of Longchang’s household. No memories of the original owner? She’ll investigate and find out for herself. A manor full of traps: who’s a loyal servant and who’s a traitor? She’ll judge and identify them herself. Unearth bones and dig up gold: what should she do with them? She’ll decide and take responsibil 711Reads8.6Score129Shelves
19. 69 璃 Lihua Shu 璃花舒 Wu Fourteen芜十四Ancient Romance585k WordsCompleted (Alternate world, no transmigration, no rebirth, one-on-one romance) In the household of Shen Beiqi, Duke of Jing, there's a gentle young adopted sister as lovely as a jade flower. Her name is Shen Li, though everyone calls her Third Miss Shen. There's someone she's loved since childhood, a secret known to no one but herself. Shen Li was born Jiang Li. When she was eight, disaster struck her family, and her father and brothers were exiled. Shen Beiqi was close friends with Jiang Li's elder broth 2.2kReads8.8Score229Shelves
20. 70 慕 Mu Yunnuan 慕云暖 Rong Mo容墨Ancient Romance481k WordsCompleted After a twist of fate, Jiang Yixia, a physician at Jishitang in Xunzhou City, became the “niece” of Xue Tao, the Marquis of Yongping in the capital. From Xunzhou to the capital, from Jishitang to the marquis's estate, Yixia witnessed the infighting among the great houses. She had once settled for mediocrity, but circumstances forced her to stand out and shine. She struggled forward against her will. In the mire of the capital, she met Xiao Can, a handsome young man from Southern Chu. He wore a p 2.7kReads8.5Score299Shelves
21. 71 明 The Bright Moon Rests on the Mountain 明月栖山 Moss Blossoms as Small as Rice苔花如米小Ancient Romance230k WordsCompleted [Alternate-history rebirth + historical romance + sweet pampering as he pursues his wife + the male lead falls hard] A little sweet historical romance, not a face-slapping power fantasy with a strong heroine. P.S. As long as it doesn't affect your reading, there's no need to nitpick the fictional details. Shen Yufu was reborn. She wasn't a daughter of the Shen family. In this new life, all she wanted was to leave the cold, unwelcoming Marquis of Yiyong's residence and find her real family. She n 455Reads9.0Score102Shelves
22. 72 当 When the Emperor Married His White Moonlight 当陛下娶到了他的白月光 Leng Chu冷初Ancient Romance279k WordsCompleted [The male lead falls for the female lead at first sight but always holds back. They are not each other's first. The early story focuses on power struggles and revenge, the middle on palace intrigue, and the later part on his devotion to her alone.] Song Zhenyi was the legitimate granddaughter of the Duke of Dingguo and the Crown Princess chosen by imperial decree. But after being framed by villains, she became a prisoner overnight. Her childhood friend took her place as Crown Princess, claiming 1.6kReads6.1Score142Shelves
23. 73 宠 He Spoiled His Concubine and Neglected His Wife. Reborn, I Broke Off My Engagement to the Scumbag and Married the Prince 宠妾灭妻，重生我退婚渣男嫁王爷 Zhi Zhi之知Ancient Romance640k WordsCompleted The physical book is available on all major platforms. Formerly titled Riding the Phoenix. [Reborn + Powerful Female Lead and Male Lead + Nation and World + Political Schemes] Before the age of seventeen, Shen Yu was the legitimate daughter of a military family who could wield a blade and charge into battle. After seventeen, she became the frail wife of Jiang Manor's Vice Minister Jiang. Her father and brothers died in battle, and the entire Shen family was honored for their loyalty. Bearing 90.8kReads9.5Score12.4kShelves
24. 74 韶 My Youthful Years Are for You 韶华为君嫁 Cheng Yu乘玉Ancient Romance386k WordsCompleted Princess Yongning Qi Zhuo was born into privilege and was Emperor Jianning's most beloved daughter. In her eyes, a consort's only purpose was to give her a child. She had originally planned to choose a powerless top-ranked scholar, but in the end, she chose the heir to the Duke of Weiguo, who came from a powerful clan. Qi Zhuo thought they would be like any ordinary aristocratic couple, treating each other with polite respect. She never expected him to use every means at his disposal to grow cl 3kReads8.5Score245Shelves
25. 75 昭 Zhao and Li 昭与礼 Qin Guo秦果Ancient Romance414k WordsCompleted [One-on-one romance, beloved heroine, three storylines: love, family, and friendship. The male lead is lovestruck, not the aloof, untouchable type. He’s insecure and sensitive.] Princess Zhaohua and Gu Yuli, Prince of Beiyang, had been at odds for years. Gu Yuli made trouble for her every day, opposing her both at court and in private. Eventually, Su Qionghua woke every morning with the same three questions: Has Gu Yuli died today? He was a thorn in her side, an eyesore she wanted gone. Yet afte 27Reads8.4Score—Shelves
26. 76 枕 Pillow of Beauty 枕姝色 Zhi Zhi之知Ancient Romance566k WordsCompleted Now published under the title The Young Man in Fine Clothes and on Fine Horses [Stoic general x fallen noblewoman, mutual healing, traditional historical romance, with no rebirth, transmigration, or golden finger] She was a noblewoman from a powerful family, beautiful and radiant, but when her family fell into decline, she became an orphan everyone could bully. Gu Lin protected and pampered her, but refused to marry her. Later, when the young man went away and matchmakers crowded her doorstep, s 10.6kReads9.0Score1.4kShelves
27. 77 袅 Delicate and Enchanting 袅袅妖娆 Ying Xiang赢香Ancient Romance557k WordsCompleted [Satisfying power fantasy + seductive troublemaker heroine + face-slapping and tormenting scoundrels + love at first sight based on looks + love grows over time + ten-year age gap] A beautiful, sweet-voiced heroine who plays the fool: a cunning, foxlike, black-lotus beauty. A hero who says one thing and means another: a strict, upright royal uncle who works as a school disciplinarian. Everyone knows Prince Ying, Huo Yin, is handsome and refined, with a face like an immortal's. But he never smile 9.3kReads9.1Score1.1kShelves
28. 78 只 As Long as I Act Well, the Empress's Throne Is Mine 只要演技好，娘娘的凤位跑不了 A Bird's Wing一只鸟的翅膀Ancient Romance260k WordsCompleted Red bricks and green tiles, beauty all around. One shower of imperial favor, and from then on she advances step by step, finally ascending the throne to stand alongside the emperor. Her family is in decline? Her brother's career prospects are uncertain? Her sister's marriage prospects have come to nothing? See how Wen Ruo keeps true to herself in the harem, rises step by step, leads her family back to the top, helps her brother advance his career, and finds her sister a fine marriage! “This hare 3kReads9.0Score327Shelves
29. 79 燕 Yan Gui'an 燕归安 Huang Xun of Cangshan苍山的星野薰Ancient Romance329k WordsCompleted “I shall protect this land with my life, and give my heart to you.” Xie Yanci was not always Xie Yanci. To everyone, he was the stray, incorrigible mongrel who had been abandoned far from home. By a twist of fate, the young lady of the Shen family found him and brought him home. After being reunited with his family, he fought his way up from nothing to become the handsome young general renowned throughout the capital. Shen Jing'an had always been Shen Jing'an, but the General's Manor had raised 110Reads7.0Score—Shelves
30. 80 朝 The Court Turns into a Melon Patch as the Prince’s Consort’s Inner Thoughts Are Overheard 朝堂变瓜田，偷听王妃心声喜吃瓜 True Courtesy of the Moon真礼之月Ancient Romance647k WordsCompleted [Transmigrates into a book + mind reading + gossip System + comedy + absurd fun + romance] Qu Jinyan transmigrates into the role of a cannon-fodder villainess. Not only does she accidentally fall into the water, she also ends up as a pawn in a scumbag and a scheming woman's game. Luckily, she's quick on her feet. While merrily swinging on a swing, she kicks the pair of them into the water. After binding with a gossip System, Qu Jinyan becomes a little otter swimming through a whole field of goss 11.6kReads8.3Score1.6kShelves
31. 81 宫 Palace Intrigue Gone Wild 宫斗也疯狂 Capricorn Big Fish摩羯大鱼Ancient Romance253k WordsCompleted [Sunshine Empress with a Sly Streak vs. Proud, Innocent Emperor] [Historical Setting + Light Comedy + Palace Intrigue + Subverting Expectations + Laugh-Out-Loud + Sweet Romance] “In broad daylight, beneath a clear sky, out in the open wilderness, the young lady of Chancellor Wen's family has knocked His Majesty flat!!!” Wen Zhishan is the daughter of the current chancellor. But she inherited none of her father's refinement or good manners. Instead, she's rough and impulsive, a notorious street t 901Reads9.2Score103Shelves

    Reader note

    ① [A cunning and sunny empress vs. A proud and innocent emperor] [Ancient style + light comedy + palace intrigue + unconventional plot + hilarious + sweet romance] ② [Traditional ancient romance + palace intrigue + domestic power struggles + no time travel or rebirth + alternate history + 1V1 + sweet romance + childhood sweethearts] [Gentle and resilient beauty VS cold and composed crown prince] ③ [Emperor and empress + political intrigue + both leads are virgins + sweet romance + both leads are native to the ancient world] ④ [A cunning and obsessive emperor x a charming and innocent beauty | both leads are virgins | mutual redemption | nurturing | a love-struck couple] ⑤ [Female lead's palace intrigue + male lead's political intrigue + all characters are highly intelligent + crazy beauties + ensemble cast] ⑥ [Traditional ancient romance + warm and lighthearted slice-of-life]

32. 82 皇 The Royal Family’s Cherished Daughter-in-Law: The Emperor and Empress Are Shipping Themselves 皇家宠媳：帝后嗑CP啦 Sheng Qian笙浅Ancient Romance296k WordsCompleted [Traditional historical romance + palace and household intrigue + no transmigration or rebirth + alternate history + one-on-one romance + sweet and doting + childhood sweethearts] [Gentle, resilient beauty VS cool, composed Crown Prince] Just three months after Mu Shuangyin's birth mother passed away, Chancellor Mu took a second wife. The new madam brought a son and a daughter into the household. They were said to be the Chancellor's children, and even more remarkably, the twins had been born ab 18.2kReads9.2Score1.8kShelves
33. 83 盛 Beloved Above All in a Golden Age, With the Land as Dowry 盛世独宠，山河为聘 Wilderness Siren荒野塞壬Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted [Male emperor and female monarch, political intrigue, devoted to each other, sweet romance, both leads are natives of a traditional historical setting] One was an emperor’s chosen star who brimmed with murderous rage; the other was a brilliant woman destined for a tragic fate. Yun Zhenzhen chose Chu Yu to protect her family and save her own life. To her, it was nothing more than a mutually willing bargain. But the bold, unrestrained man held her close and shielded her from every open attack and 1.1kReads9.1Score117Shelves
34. 84 惹 Why Mess With Her? She's His Majesty's Beloved and His First Wife 惹她干嘛，她是陛下白月光兼发妻 Amidst Misty Rain on the Terrace楼台烟雨中Ancient Romance452k WordsCompleted [A calculating, possessive emperor × a sweet, gentle beauty | devoted to one another | mutual healing | growing-up romance | two hopeless romantics falling for each other~] Jiang Yingli has spent four years as Prince Su’s concubine. Xiao Chenglan, Prince Su, has little interest in women, and she is the only concubine in his household, so her life is peaceful and carefree. She thinks things will stay that way, but then Prince Su ascends the throne. Overnight, she rises from a lowly concubine of P 55.8kReads8.9Score6.5kShelves
35. 85 宫 Spring in the Imperial Palace 宫闱春 Dare to Draw a Mulberry Bow敢挽桑弓Ancient Romance246k WordsCompleted [Female Lead in Palace Intrigue + Male Lead in Political Schemes + High-IQ Cast + Beautiful, Unhinged Characters + Ensemble Cast] An alternate-world story. The female lead is highly intelligent, clear-headed, and no lovesick fool. From the moment she enters the palace, Jiang Wanqing knows she will spend her whole life within these walls. She never forgets one thing: she wants to become empress. She also knows that the current emperor, Zhou Qijing, cares only about royal power and dominion. So sh 698Reads8.7Score112Shelves
36. 86 长 The Chang’an Dyeing Incident 长安染事 Yu Mu俞慕Ancient Romance412k WordsCompleted [Currently being published] This story portrays four sisters from the Rong family’s dyeing workshop, offering a glimpse into the lives of women in a prominent family. The eldest, Rong Wanning, has a talent for business and handles matters steadily. She considers romance and marriage worthless. The second daughter, Rong Shuhe, is exceptionally beautiful and loves to read. She wants a husband who is both learned and a suitable match for her family. The third daughter, Rong Shijin, is determined to 299Reads—Score100Shelves
37. 87 清 Qing Transmigration: Oh No, Consort Yi Is Beating People Again 清穿：不好了，宜妃又动手打人了 Xiao Shiyiniang萧十一娘Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Qing Transmigration: A pampered young lady in her previous life + a haughty, proud, fussy little diva + quick to throw punches at the slightest provocation Not a clean romance. Reader discretion advised. Plot 1: Nalan Zhu is dazzlingly beautiful, with a graceful figure. As soon as she enters the imperial harem, Emperor Kangxi takes notice of her. She wins his favor at once and is immediately made a Noble Lady, granted the title Yi. At the morning audience in Changchun Palace, the beauty of Noble 4.3kReads9.0Score398Shelves

    Reader note

    If you enjoy palace intrigue, I highly recommend the third book. The female lead is a concubine who marries the male lead when he already has a principal wife, who is also his "white moonlight" (idealized love). She uses all her cunning to lower his guard, then schemes against the principal wife to create distance between them, taking advantage of the situation. She appears innocent and naive in front of the male lead. The second book's female lead seems simple-minded and doesn't scheme against others, but in reality, she plots against anyone who targets her, without getting caught. She even later challenges Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang.

38. 88 清 A Qing Dynasty Journey as Consort De: Which Lady Doesn't Want to Be Empress? 清穿德妃：谁家娘娘不想当皇后呀 Ding Anlan丁安岚Ancient Romance607k WordsCompleted [Not a devoted-couple-only romance; the heroine is doted on exclusively in the later story; she has a golden finger. This is not a power fantasy. The heroine has lived four lifetimes and has now returned to the Qing dynasty. She understands people and social conventions, but isn't the sort who likes to stir up trouble. The events, characters, and timeline in the book don't match real history. If that bothers you, don't read!] ⚠️⚠️⚠️A heads-up: The heroine isn't a cruel or vicious person. She onl 5.6kReads9.2Score630Shelves
39. 89 娘 The Empress Is Alluring and Bewitching, and the Emperor Gives In to Pleasure 娘娘撩人魅惑，帝王纵情堕落 You Gongyu尤宫羽Ancient Romance1.1M WordsCompleted The Tomato short drama Kun Yi is now streaming~ [Transmigrate into a book, male lead is not a virgin but female lead is, palace intrigue, psychological games, happy ending] The Crown Prince, Jun Zechen, has seen his fair share of calculating women, and loves only those who are pure and kind. While campaigning beyond the frontier, he meets Ling Yue and is captivated by her free-spirited kindness. He promises to spend his life with her alone. But two years pass, and the Crown Princess has yet to c 116.7kReads9.5Score11.1kShelves
40. 90 穿 Beast World Transmigration: The Barren Female Has Many Children and Much Good Fortune 穿越兽世：无嗣雌性多崽多福 Lemon Milk Bun柠檬奶团Ancient Romance1.7M WordsCompleted [Special abilities + pocket dimension + heroine gradually growing stronger + raising cubs + beast-world childbirth story + one heroine and multiple love interests + childbirth System + multiple male partners + sweet romance + all male leads are virgins] After dying of illness, Tu Jiaojiao transmigrates to a beast-world continent where males vastly outnumber females, becoming a rare female of the rabbit clan. Because she is frail and unable to bear children, the Wild Dog Tribe casts her out. She 12kReads8.6Score1.4kShelves
41. 91 不 After I Stopped Loving Them, Two CEOs Tried to Control Me 不爱他们后，两个总裁控制着我 Luoluo's Novels洛洛的小说Modern Romance472k WordsCompleted [One woman, two men, wealthy families, possessive love, heroine and both male leads are sexually inexperienced + second female lead’s comeback] Two children, two fathers! Ye Yin comes from a wealthy family, but she’s hopelessly lovesick. Since middle school, she’s been obsessed with Si Jinghuai, and in high school, she falls for Lu Bai too. For their sake, she constantly targets the heroine, Jiang Rou. But Si Jinghuai feels nothing but disgust and aversion toward her. His heart belongs only to t 24.8kReads8.5Score2.8kShelves
42. 92 将 The General’s Princess 将军公主 Xiao Shihuo潇十火Ancient Romance472k WordsCompleted An ensemble cast in a classical fantasy setting + court intrigue + war + adventure + two equally strong leads + both heartbreaking and sweet A tragedy seventeen years ago implicated countless people. General Ji Bei was killed in battle, and neither the former crown prince, Chu Mo, nor anyone in the Ji family survived! Years later, the late emperor Chu Junlin passed away, and Crown Prince Chu Yi ascended the throne. He renamed the kingdom Yong'an and granted a general amnesty. Peace reigned throu 161Reads—Score—Shelves

    Reader note

    Then you definitely have to check out this one! No rebirth, no time travel, no system—it's a classic ensemble piece where everyone has their own purpose. It's a high-IQ, high-EQ political intrigue and palace drama, with the plot as the main focus and romance as secondary. Don't miss it!

43. 93 我 I Survive in the Imperial Harem Through Gossip 我靠八卦立足后宫 Bao Gege饱格格Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted The emperor is both annoyed and pleased. He’s annoyed that while traveling incognito, a palace maid forced him into a food-sharing arrangement. But he’s pleased that she’s a delightful confidante who gossips about the harem every day. “Consort An is stupid and greedy.” “Consort Xian is having an affair with a guard.” Then one day, the maid smiles sweetly and gossips to the emperor: “I heard His Majesty is impotent…” 594Reads8.4Score108Shelves
44. 94 重 Reborn a Year Early, I Stockpile Supplies and Eat Like a Queen on the Run from Famine 重生提前一年囤货，逃荒吃香喝辣 Steamed Roast Duck蒸烧鸭吃Ancient Romance951k WordsCompleted [Completed] [Rebirth + farming + fleeing famine + rugged hero + cherished by the whole family + heartwarming + a touch of ensemble cast] Jiang Yao and Zhou Jingnian’s meeting was a scheme from the start. As a result, she became pregnant with an illegitimate child and was thrown out of the house. After losing her refined and handsome fiancé, she married a rugged hunter from a farming family while pregnant, and sank into despair. But who could have imagined that earthquakes, floods, and one disast 13.7kReads8.2Score2kShelves

    Reader note

    Highly recommended.

45. 95 农 The Farmhouse Family’s Darling: My Spoiled Foolish Husband Is a Tyrant 农门团宠：娇养的傻夫是暴君 Persevering Little Snail奋起小蜗牛Ancient Romance2.0M WordsCompleted [Spirit Spring Space] [Doting on Her Husband] [No Fleeing from Famine] [Famine Years] [Stockpiling Food] [Farming] [Space] [Devoted Couple] [Completed] Su Wanshu never imagined she would transmigrate right into a famine. Luckily, she had a Spirit Spring Space. While the whole country went hungry, her space was stocked full of food. Her space could do more than store provisions: it could keep leveling up, and every upgrade brought a wonderful surprise. When refugees rioted during the famine, sh 7.6kReads9.2Score1.2kShelves
46. 96 带 After the Divorce, Enjoying a Feast with Mother, While the Jerk Father’s Family Frets 带下堂娘吃大肉，渣爹一家急眼了 Twenty-Four Songs廿四歌Ancient Romance2.4M WordsCompleted After transmigrating, Lian'er found her mother being cast aside and saw the Song family’s ugly true colors. She firmly chose to leave with her mother. You want to divorce my mother? Not a chance. Hand over the divorce papers. Her younger brother stabbed her in the back. Fine, put your thumbprint on the severance agreement, and we’re done with each other. She changed her surname, turning from a maternal granddaughter into a true member of the Qiao family. Her mother had a bad leg, and the Qiao fa 7kReads8.7Score1.1kShelves
47. 97 什 What Sword Spirit? That's My Wife! 什么剑灵，那是我老婆！ Spring Peach春日桃Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted Original title: After Becoming the Male Lead's Sword Spirit, the Entire Sect Regretted It My junior sister stole my spiritual root and my fortune, so I crippled her with one strike of my sword. Fu Xi was the eldest senior sister of the Yijian Sect. She trained diligently and was respected by her fellow disciples, but everything changed after their master brought home a junior sister. Her revered master repeatedly put the sect in danger for the sake of the junior sister. Her second junior brother 48.6kReads9.1Score6.4kShelves
48. 98 和 After Splitting From My Wicked Grandma, I Led the Whole Village on a Famine Escape 和邪恶老奶分家后，我带全村逃荒 Blue Wind, Red Gold蓝风赤金Ancient Romance1.3M WordsCompleted [Fleeing Famine + Feel-Good Story + Farming + Face-Slapping + System Space + Beloved by All] Qian Sussu transmigrated. She became a farm girl in ancient Dashu Village and watched her fiancé marry her cousin. She was about to throw herself against their door and die. The original owner had a rotten personality, was disliked by everyone, and was lazy and greedy. She often stole vegetables from other people’s fields, so the villagers avoided her like the plague. To support the man she loved while h 2.7kReads7.8Score322Shelves
49. 99 甜 Sweet Spoiling: The Empress Is Adorable and Soft 甜宠：皇后娘娘又娇又软 Yang Congxin杨从心Ancient Romance1.0M WordsCompleted Historical romance + household intrigue + sweet romance The emperor of the Great Liang has only one woman in his harem: the empress. This leaves the court officials deeply dissatisfied. What displeases them even more is that His Majesty the Emperor actually carries the empress into court! 6.7kReads7.6Score340Shelves

    Reader note

    Both are pretty good. The first one is purely sweet, and the second one is a palace intrigue story—how does a concubine rise to become empress? Come and check it out!

50. 100 谢 Empress of the Xie Family 谢家皇后 Song of the Yue People越人歌Ancient Romance1.2M WordsCompleted In her first year in the palace, she is a Talented Lady. In her fifth, she is a Jieyu. In her tenth, she wants to become empress. As empress, she can hold on to everything she treasures and keep it from being taken away. She can protect herself and her child, and she can... stay by his side. This is a road with only one direction: take a single step back, and all will be lost. The bright yellow ceremonial parasol moves forward, and the emperor's procession slowly enters the city gate. A yellow p 9.1kReads9.2Score1.1kShelves

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