Top 19 Chinese Romance Novels with Male Protagonist in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

19 Novels

Male protagonist romance in Chinese webnovels often overlaps with cultivation or business settings. The romance becomes one thread among many rather than the sole focus, which can be refreshing or frustrating depending on what you want. I find these work best when the author balances the power fantasy elements with genuine emotional vulnerability.

Compared to female-led romance, these stories tend toward slower romantic development. The male lead usually has other priorities, whether that's ascending to immortality or building an empire. That pacing suits readers who want romance as seasoning rather than the main course.

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1
TOP 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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2
RUNNER UP
The Disabled Tyrant’s Pet Palm Fish [Transmigration]
4.5
(1.1K ratings)
Genre: comedy, fantasy, historical
One day, Li Yu transmigrated into a fish. Furthermore, this fish even had a master.
First Impressions
"The Disabled Tyrant’s Pet Palm Fish [Transmigration]" is quite the title, isn't it? It certainly piqued my interest, and after diving in, I can see why it's garnered such a dedicated following. This novel is a blend of historical fantasy, romance, and comedy, promising a lighthearted escape into a world where a modern soul transmigrates into… well, a palm-sized fish. Initially, the premise seemed a bit out there, even for a transmigration story! I was curious to see how the author would pull off a romance between a disabled tyrant and a fish. But I was quickly charmed by the cute and fluffy a...
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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine
4.5
(752 ratings)
Genre: adult, drama, fantasy
According to popular legend, the war god of Da Liang Huo Wujiu was once captured by the enemy country. His meridians were severed and both his legs broken before he was thrown into prison.
First Impressions
"After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine" promised a blend of historical romance, political intrigue, and a dash of humor, and for the most part, it delivered a pretty enjoyable experience. It's definitely a novel that sucked me in, and I found myself eager to see how the relationship between the MC and ML would unfold. The initial chapters were strong, immediately throwing me into the world and the MC's predicament. As a history professor transmigrated into a historical drama, the MC's rational approach to his situation was refreshing. I appreciated that the author didn't rely on ov...
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4
EDITORS CHOICE
Glory
4.6
(441 ratings)
Genre: action, comedy, romance
This novel is also known as [I was caught and brought back after using and tossing aside the Great Demon King of e-sports…]Wei Xiao––the former rookie king of the league, now an accompanying player and tr*sh talk king, had a stupefied look on his face! Someone bought 10,000 games with him!
First Impressions
"Glory" is an esports BL novel that completely sucked me in. With a solid 4.6/5 rating from readers, I went in with high expectations, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a blend of action, comedy, romance, and sports, and it manages to juggle these elements surprisingly well. From the start, I was struck by the vibrant characters and the energetic pace. The dynamic between the leads, Wei Xiao and Lu Feng, is immediately engaging. Wei Xiao's shamelessness and Lu Feng's cool exterior create a compelling contrast that had me hooked. The esports setting is also well-integrated, making it en...
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5
EDITORS CHOICE
The Grandmaster Strategist
4.6
(472 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, martial arts
This is an alternate history. Decades after the fall of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, the world is still in chaos, although there is hope for reunification.
First Impressions
"The Grandmaster Strategist" is a web novel that really surprised me. Going in, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I quickly found myself drawn into its intricate world of political maneuvering and strategic brilliance. It's definitely not your typical power fantasy, and that's precisely what makes it stand out. Initially, I was a bit overwhelmed. The story dives right into a complex setting reminiscent of ancient China, and there's a lot of information thrown at you early on. I can see why some readers might find the beginning slow or even boring; it requires patience and a willingness to abso...
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6
#6 PICK
I am an Alpha
4.5
(463 ratings)
Genre: drama, romance, sci-fi
Also named “I am a vegetable” “President Shen’s Wife Died” “Big Brother has more presence than me” Nothing is more honorable than being an Alpha. Strong, intelligent and handsome.
First Impressions
"I am an Alpha" is a short, complete web novel that really took me for a ride. It's a blend of drama, romance, and a touch of sci-fi, all wrapped up in a unique ABO (Alpha/Beta/Omega) universe. I went in expecting a typical romance, but what I got was something much more complex and emotionally resonant. Initially, I was a bit lost. The first chapter throws you right into the thick of things, and I wasn't entirely sure what was going on. However, I'm glad I stuck with it because, as many readers pointed out, the ending really brings everything together and makes the initial confusion worthwhil...
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7
#7 PICK
After Being Forced to Marry the Evil Star General
4.6
(503 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, romance
Zhao Yelan was born as a criminal s*ave and was rescued by the Third Prince. After years of painstaking efforts to put him on the throne, Zhao Yelan became a sycophantic minister whom everyone detested, but he was actually given a marriage by that person to General Yan Mingting, the lone star of...
First Impressions
"After Being Forced to Marry the Evil Star General" is a web novel that completely charmed me, even though it took a few chapters to fully click. With its blend of comedy, drama, and romance, it's a story that had me laughing one moment and reaching for tissues the next. Initially, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. The premise is intriguing: a marriage between a cunning strategist and a notorious general. It's a setup ripe for conflict, and the early chapters do a good job of establishing the initial animosity and misunderstandings between the leads. I found myself immediately drawn to th...
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8
#8 PICK
Mr. Dior
4.5
(284 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, romance
One day, Zhang Chenfei met a car accident. Fortunately, he didn’t suffer any serious physical injuries.
First Impressions
"Mr. Dior" promised a comedic, slightly absurd ride, and after diving in, I can confidently say it delivers on that promise – and then some. It's a novel that had me laughing out loud, sometimes to the point of tears, and I found myself thoroughly entertained by the antics of the main couple. Initially, I was a little hesitant. The premise – a husband whose brain malfunctions, causing him to adopt personalities from the novels he's read – sounded like it could easily devolve into cringe. However, those fears were quickly put to rest. The story immediately hooked me with its lighthearted tone a...
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9
#9 PICK
Imperfections
4.6
(331 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, mecha
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. —— Dickens《A Tale of Two Cities》 I took my hatred and plot for revenge with me down the mire, to the depths of the abyss, and returned as a ghost of the past.
First Impressions
"Imperfections" (Can Ci Pin) is a sprawling sci-fi epic with a healthy dose of romance, and after diving in, I can see why it's garnered so much praise. This novel isn't just about spaceships and futuristic tech; it's a deep dive into humanity, morality, and the choices that define us. I will admit, the initial chapters were a bit overwhelming. The world-building is dense, throwing a lot of information at you right away. It took a bit to get my bearings and understand the factions, technologies, and political landscape. However, sticking with it proved to be incredibly rewarding....
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Completed
10
#10 PICK
Fanservice Paradox
4.5
(416 ratings)
Genre: adult, romance, slice of life
Kaleido, a talented but unpopular boy band, shot to fame by chance because of a video shot at the airport. In the video, Pei Tingsong, the youngest and most gong member of the whole group, pinned Fang Juexia Gege against a wall as he gently patted his face with a ticket.
First Impressions
"Fanservice Paradox" is a wild ride, a kaleidoscope of emotions and ideas wrapped up in the glitzy world of C-Pop idols. I went in expecting a fluffy romance, but I found something much deeper and more complex. It's a story that made me laugh, think, and occasionally cringe, but ultimately left a lasting impression. Initially, I was a bit overwhelmed. The writing style is definitely unique – very descriptive and metaphor-heavy. It took me a few chapters to adjust to the author's voice, which some might find a tad overbearing. The early chapters are packed with flowery descriptions, but I found...
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11
#11 PICK
The Destruction of a Triad Boss Trilogy
4.8
(396 ratings)
Genre: comedy, romance, school life
Li Hao Ran is known as the neighborhood troublemaker. Ever since he was 3, Li Hao Ran’s main goal in life was to be a bad guy.
First Impressions
This short and sweet story definitely left a lasting impression! "The Destruction of a Triad Boss Trilogy" is a quick read, clocking in at only five chapters, but it packs a surprising amount of charm and humor into its limited space. The premise alone – a boy determined to become a triad boss getting completely derailed by a sweet, adopted sister – is enough to pique anyone's interest. I was immediately drawn in by the lighthearted tone and the unique perspective. It's refreshing to see a romance told from the male lead's point of view, and the comedic elements are well-executed. The story se...
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Conclusion

This list reflects what readers rate highly, which often means protagonists who succeed at both their external goals and their romantic pursuits. If you prefer flawed male leads or messy relationship dynamics, you might find some entries too polished. But for wish-fulfillment with heart, these deliver.

How We Create Our 2026 Rankings

Our 2026 novel rankings are created through a comprehensive, data-driven process that combines quantitative metrics with qualitative editorial review. Here's how we ensure our rankings reflect the best novels available today.

Data Collection

We aggregate reading data, ratings, and engagement metrics from thousands of readers across multiple platforms, updated regularly throughout 2026.

Community Input

Reader ratings and reviews form the foundation of our rankings. We weight votes based on verified reading history to ensure authenticity.

Quality Scoring

Each novel receives a composite score based on average rating, vote count, reading list additions, and reader retention metrics.

Editorial Review

Our editorial team reviews top candidates for writing quality, translation accuracy, and overall reader experience.

Regular Updates

Rankings are refreshed quarterly to reflect new releases, updated ratings, and shifting reader preferences in 2026.

Transparency

We publish our methodology openly so readers understand exactly how novels earn their positions in our rankings.

Our 2026 Ranking Criteria

40%Reader Rating Score (weighted by vote count and recency)
25%Popularity Metrics (reading list additions, active readers)
20%Engagement Score (comments, reviews, recommendations)
15%Editorial Assessment (writing quality, translation, completeness)

Last updated: January 27, 2026 | Rankings reflect data collected through 2026

Ranked Novels

I Can Do It

First Impressions

The Disabled Tyrant’s Pet Palm Fish [Transmigration]

First Impressions

After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine

First Impressions

Glory

First Impressions

The Grandmaster Strategist

First Impressions

I am an Alpha

First Impressions

After Being Forced to Marry the Evil Star General

First Impressions

Mr. Dior

First Impressions

Imperfections

First Impressions