Top 15 Essential Chinese Romance Novels in 2026

Ranked Novels

1. Completed

   1

   TOP PICK

   Heaven Official’s Blessing

   4.7

   (3.0K ratings)

   Genre: drama, mystery, romance

   Eight hundred years ago, Xie Lian was the Crown Prince of the Xian Le kingdom. He was loved by his citizens and was considered the darling of the world.

   First Impressions

   "Heaven Official's Blessing" is quite a ride, a sprawling xianxia novel that's clearly captured the hearts of many, even inspiring an anime adaptation. Diving into this world of gods, demons, and intricate relationships, I can see why it’s become so popular, but I also noticed some recurring concerns that held it back from being a perfect read for me. The story immediately throws you into the chaotic world of Xie Lian, a god who's ascended (and descended) multiple times. His initial assignment and subsequent meeting with the mysterious Hua Cheng sets the stage for a grand adventure filled with...

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2. Completed

   2

   RUNNER UP

   Little Mushroom

   4.8

   (1.8K ratings)

   Genre: drama, psychological, romance

   “Until the day humanity falls. ” In the year 2020, Earth’s magnetic poles disappeared and humankind was nearly wiped out by cosmic radiation.

   First Impressions

   "Little Mushroom." Don't let the cute title fool you. This isn't a fluffy, lighthearted story; it's a poignant journey through a post-apocalyptic world, seen through the eyes of a naive, yet incredibly endearing, little mushroom. I went in expecting one thing and got something far more complex and emotionally resonant. Initially, I was drawn in by the unique premise: a mushroom that takes on a human form and embarks on a quest. But it quickly became clear that this was more than just a quirky adventure. The world-building is intricate and immersive, painting a vivid picture of a dying planet a...

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3. Completed

   3

   HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

   Mist

   4.7

   (1.4K ratings)

   Genre: action, adventure, mature

   Hyperthymesia. Those with this condition can remember every detail of their lives from something as significant as the world’s turning point to something as small and as insignificant as a minor fleeting thought.

   First Impressions

   "Mist" is a web novel that really took me on a ride. Blending action, adventure, sci-fi, and romance with a dash of mystery, it's a story that demands your attention. While it has its quirks, the overall experience was definitely memorable. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of time travel interwoven with complex sci-fi elements. The beginning felt a bit slow as the characters were being introduced, and I wondered if the romance would feel rushed. However, as the story progressed, the initial setup proved essential for understanding the intricate plot and the characters' motivations. I q...

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4. Completed

   4

   EDITORS CHOICE

   Global Examination

   4.7

   (1.5K ratings)

   Genre: action, comedy, horror

   The whole world is subjected to a highly dangerous standardised exam called the Global Examination. Answering questions by putting their lives at stake, they would live if they passed the test.

   First Impressions

   "Global Examination" is a wild ride of a novel, and I can definitely see why it has such a devoted following. From the very first chapter, I was thrown into a bizarre world of deadly exams, quirky characters, and an overarching mystery that kept me hooked. It blends elements of action, comedy, horror, and romance (shounen ai/yaoi) into a surprisingly cohesive whole. Initially, the premise of a life-or-death exam system felt a little chaotic. The early chapters are heavy on the examination aspects, which I didn't mind, but I can see why some readers might find it a bit confusing or dry until th...

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5. Completed

   5

   EDITORS CHOICE

   Devil Venerable Also Wants to Know

   4.7

   (1.5K ratings)

   Genre: adventure, comedy, romance

   In a Mary-Sue novel, the readers all liked the Devil Venerable, the second male lead who devoted himself whole-heartedly to the female lead. However the female lead only loved the male lead who ab*sed her physically and mentally.

   First Impressions

   This novel was quite the ride! It's a xianxia with a strong comedic bent and a refreshing take on familiar tropes. I found myself thoroughly entertained, and it's easy to see why it has such a high rating. Initially, the story felt a little slow as it set the stage, but that didn't last long. The premise is intriguing: our protagonist, the Devil Venerable Wenren E, discovers a book detailing a future where he's a supporting character in a trashy romance. His reaction? Utter confusion and a determination to understand why the characters are acting so…illogically. I was immediately hooked by his...

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6. Completed

   6

   #6 PICK

   Rebirth on the Doors to the Civil Affairs Bureau

   4.7

   (1.3K ratings)

   Genre: comedy, drama, josei

   “Then why don’t I marry you! ” Yu Dong suddenly proposed.

   First Impressions

   This novel promised a fluffy and heartwarming story, and for the most part, it delivered. "Rebirth on the Doors to the Civil Affairs Bureau" offers a refreshing take on the rebirth trope, steering clear of the typical revenge plotlines and focusing instead on genuine connection and personal growth. I found myself charmed by the characters and invested in their journey. The premise is definitely unique: a woman reborn on the day of her failed wedding, impulsively deciding to marry a handsome stranger she recognizes as a future success. It's a bold move, and I was immediately curious to see how ...

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7. Completed

   7

   #7 PICK

   Ascending, Do Not Disturb

   4.7

   (1.1K ratings)

   Genre: adventure, comedy, fantasy

   You think too much, cultivation is not like this… When Kong Hou steps on the path to cultivation, she learns that all xianxia stories are full of lies. A relaxed cultivation story.

   First Impressions

   "Ascending, Do Not Disturb" is a breath of fresh air in the Xianxia genre, and I found myself utterly charmed by its unique blend of adventure, comedy, and heartwarming slice-of-life elements. It's a story that left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling, even if it wasn't perfect. Right from the start, I was drawn in by the protagonist, Kong Hou. She's a delightful character – a former princess with a sunny disposition and a love for cultivation novels. Her carefree attitude is infectious, and I immediately wanted to root for her as she embarked on her journey. The initial chapters are well-translated...

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8. Completed

   8

   #8 PICK

   Guide on How to Fail at Online Dating

   4.7

   (1.2K ratings)

   Genre: comedy, romance, school life

   The cousin that Jing Huan has been closest to since he was a child was labelled as “the other woman” in a certain popular online game: only after devoting herself did she know that the other party was a jerk with a girlfriend. After several days of being bullied online by people in the game, his...

   First Impressions

   "Guide on How to Fail at Online Dating" had me hooked from the start with its quirky premise and blend of genres. As a sucker for a good rom-com with a gaming twist, I dove in with high expectations, and for the most part, it delivered a delightful experience. The initial chapters plunge you headfirst into the world of online gaming, complete with all the jargon and chaotic energy you'd expect. Our MC, fueled by a desire for revenge on behalf of his sister, embarks on a catfishing scheme that quickly spirals into a hilarious mess. Honestly, the sheer audacity of his attempts to woo the ML whil...

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9. Completed

   9

   #9 PICK

   Our Second Master

   4.8

   (1.0K ratings)

   Genre: drama, historical, josei

   What would you say is the most valuable thing in this world? A mountain of gold and silver?

   First Impressions

   "Our Second Master" is a short but powerful historical romance that really took me by surprise. I wasn't expecting to be so emotionally invested in just seven chapters, but the story's impact is undeniable. It's a story about loyalty, redemption, and the quiet strength of ordinary people, and it's definitely earned its high rating. Initially, I was drawn in by the unique premise. The female lead, often referred to as "Little Monkey," isn't your typical beautiful or exceptionally talented protagonist. Instead, she's an average-looking, self-deprecating servant with a compassionate heart. The ma...

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10. Completed

    10

    #10 PICK

    I Can Do It

    4.7

    (1.1K ratings)

    Genre: comedy, romance, slice of life

    In a certain League of Legends (LOL) match, a streamer well-known for infuriating people, was providing commentary and live streaming. Streamer: This support, so tr*sh.

    First Impressions

    "I Can Do It" is a delightful dive into the world of e-sports, sprinkled with humor, a dash of romance, and a whole lot of heart. As someone who enjoys a good slice-of-life story, this one definitely hit the spot. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of a streamer turned pro gamer. The main character, Jian Rong (Soft), is instantly likable – a feisty, trash-talking genius who's secretly a softie, especially around the ML, Lu Boyuan (Road). The slow-burn romance was also a big draw for me, and I was eager to see how it would unfold....

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11. Completed

    11

    #11 PICK

    Sansheng, Wangchuan Wu Shang

    4.7

    (1.1K ratings)

    Genre: comedy, fantasy, josei

    This is a story that follows the courtship between a stone from Hell and a god from Heaven that begins in the underworld and spans for three lifetimes in the mortal realm.

    First Impressions

    This novel promised a journey through love, loss, and reincarnation, and while it delivered on some fronts, it also left me with mixed feelings. Sansheng, Wangchuan Wu Shang certainly has its strengths, but some elements gave me pause. The premise, involving three lifetimes of romance between a stone spirit and a god undergoing mortal trials, immediately grabbed my attention. The overwhelmingly positive reviews further piqued my interest, suggesting a deeply touching and memorable story. I dove in expecting a rollercoaster of emotions, and in some ways, that's exactly what I got....

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12. Completed

    12

    #12 PICK

    Supernatural Movie Actor App

    4.7

    (923 ratings)

    Genre: action, comedy, horror

    Xie Chi is a patient with multiple personality disorder. On the surface, he is educated and gentle but the secondary personality is cold, ruthless, and powerful, with explosive strength.

    First Impressions

    Okay, wow. "Supernatural Movie Actor App" was quite the ride. I went into this expecting a fun horror romp, and while I got that, I also got a whole lot more. This novel isn't just about scares; it's a clever blend of genres that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The premise alone grabbed me: a protagonist who falls in love with his split personality and then uses a horror movie app to help them get their own body? It's bonkers, and I was immediately on board. I was a little hesitant about the self-cest aspect, but the author quickly establishes the MC and ML as distinct individuals, which...

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13. Completed

    13

    #13 PICK

    Don’t Pick Up Boyfriends From the T*ash Bin

    4.7

    (1.0K ratings)

    Genre: adventure, comedy, drama

    Chi Xiaochi: fourth-rate citizen at birth, three-time award-winning film emperor, second-rate temper, first-class looks. He crawled his way out of hell on hard mode to become a winner at life.

    First Impressions

    "Don't Pick Up Boyfriends From the Tash Bin" is a web novel that grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise and overwhelmingly positive reviews. I dove in, ready for a unique ride through multiple worlds, and I wasn't disappointed. It's a story that lingers in your mind long after you've finished reading. The initial hook of a 'sum gong reconditioning' system is what drew me in, and the first few chapters definitely set the stage for a darkly comedic adventure. I was immediately impressed by the writing style, which felt both grounded and subtly lyrical, creating a captivating atmosphere...

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14. Completed

    14

    #14 PICK

    Married Thrice to Salted Fish

    4.7

    (882 ratings)

    Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy

    At eighteen years old, Lin Qingyu was married as part of a Chong Xi into the Nan’an Hou Mansion, becoming the ill Lu Wancheng’s male wife. On the eve of their wedding, Young Master Hou lay lazily on the bed and said, “Beauty, to be honest, I really don’t want to engage in domestic struggles.

    First Impressions

    "Married Thrice to Salted Fish" had me hooked from the start with its intriguing premise: a transmigration story where the male lead (ML) is the one hopping bodies, and the male lead (MC) is the original resident. The novel promised a unique take on the genre, and for the most part, it delivered. The initial setup is compelling. We have Lin Qingyu, a cold and calculating doctor, forced into a marriage with the sickly Lu Wancheng, who is secretly the transmigrated Jiang Xing. I was immediately drawn to the dynamic between these two vastly different personalities, and I couldn’t wait to see how ...

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15. Completed

    15

    #15 PICK

    I Ship My Adversary X Me

    4.7

    (662 ratings)

    Genre: adult, comedy, mature

    A very sweet entertainment circle novel about a fudanshi shou x closeted gong.

    First Impressions

    "I Ship My Adversary X Me" promised a fluffy, comedic escape, and boy, did it deliver! I went in expecting a lighthearted read, and I wasn't disappointed. It's the kind of story that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a warm drink and just giggle your way through. From the very first chapters, I was hooked. The premise is hilarious: an actor discovering fanfiction shipping him with his rival. The main character's reactions are priceless, and I immediately found myself invested in his journey of self-discovery (and accidental flirting). I especially loved the first-person perspective; ...

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