Top 19 Yuri Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

By Genre

19 Novels

Yuri focuses on romantic relationships between female characters. The genre is smaller than yaoi in the web novel space but has a dedicated readership. Japanese light novels produce most of the entries, often with school settings or fantasy isekai frameworks. Chinese and Korean yuri exists but is less common in translation.

What I notice about stronger yuri novels is that they tend to develop both characters in the central relationship rather than focusing heavily on one perspective. The genre can fall into patterns where one character is essentially a prize rather than a person, and the better entries avoid that trap. These rankings favor novels where both leads feel like complete characters with their own arcs.

1
TOP PICK
The Speedrun Manual of Miss Witch
4.7
(202 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
In her third year living in this steampunk world, Ciel gained the ability to simulate both the past and the future. These simulations turned into a game where she could act without restraint, and after countless trials, real life became a replica she could navigate as though speedrunning it.
First Impressions
"The Speedrun Manual of Miss Witch" has been quite a ride! I dove in expecting a standard fantasy adventure, but it quickly subverted my expectations in the best ways. It's definitely a novel that keeps you on your toes. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: a protagonist, Ciel, who gains the ability to simulate the past and future. This isn't just a simple time-travel story, though. The world-building, a blend of steampunk and fantasy, feels meticulously crafted, reminiscent of Lord of the Mysteries, but with its own unique flavor. The early chapters establish a tense atmosphere, and the ...
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Completed
2
RUNNER UP
The Dragon
4.7
(240 ratings)
Genre: adventure, fantasy, romance
Everyone says “like father, like son”, but Gu Fuyou has mediocre talent. So mediocre that when people see her, they mock her, wondering how Gu Wanpeng could have such a daughter.
First Impressions
"The Dragon" is a web novel that truly took me on a journey. Blending adventure, fantasy, romance, and xianxia elements with a touch of tragedy, it's a story that's both heartwarming and heartbreaking. While it has some minor flaws, the overall experience left me deeply impressed. Initially, I was a little thrown by the world-building. It throws you right into the action, and it took me a little bit to get my bearings. However, the compelling characters and intriguing premise quickly pulled me in. I found myself drawn to the spunky MC and the initially cold FL, eager to see how their relations...
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Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
A Maiden’s Unwanted Heroic Epic
4.4
(186 ratings)
Genre: adventure, comedy, fantasy
“…. Krische-sama, are you not afraid of killing people?
First Impressions
"A Maiden’s Unwanted Heroic Epic" is quite the journey, a sprawling saga that's left me with a lot to unpack. It’s a story that seems to genuinely resonate with many, but also has some elements that might not be for everyone. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise – a unique blend of adventure, comedy, fantasy, and even a touch of yuri, all wrapped around a protagonist who's described as both beautiful and ruthlessly pragmatic. The sheer scope of the story, spanning numerous chapters, was a bit daunting, but the positive buzz kept me intrigued....
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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
Who Moved My Ashes
4.5
(227 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy
Jiang Xichu served as Chen Man’s secretary for many years, attending to her every need. Workplace disagreements were common, and one day, after a heated argument with Chen Man, Jiang Xichu left the company.
First Impressions
"Who Moved My Ashes" is a short and sweet yuri novel that I found incredibly heartwarming. It's a story about second chances, grief, and the discovery of love that was hidden in plain sight. While it might not be perfect, it definitely left a lasting impression. The initial chapters definitely tugged at my heartstrings. The story starts with heartbreak, but it quickly blossoms into a fluffy and mutually loving relationship between the main characters. The premise of rebirth, though not heavily explored, sets the stage for a beautiful story about cherishing the present and confessing your feeli...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
Villainess, I’ll Pamper You
4.5
(199 ratings)
Genre: drama, fantasy, romance
There is always a villainess who becomes the biggest stumbling block in the relationship between the male and female leads, the one with the most miserable ending. After being summoned into time and space by a strong force, Ah Xin was determined to appease the broken hearted younger sister, help...
First Impressions
This novel was quite a ride, a heartwarming and often sweet journey through multiple worlds, each with its own unique flavor. The premise alone hooked me: a protagonist who transmigrates to pamper a 'villainess' in different scenarios. It definitely delivered on that promise, offering a comforting escape with a dash of excitement. The initial chapters pulled me right in. The concept of Ah Xin appearing whenever the female lead is at her lowest, ready to change her fate, is incredibly appealing. I was eager to see how the author would handle the different world settings and the evolving relatio...
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Completed
6
#6 PICK
My Feelings Can Wait
4.7
(202 ratings)
Genre: drama, fantasy, psychological
As superstar Jing Xiu’s grand wedding unfolds, social media explodes with the shocking news of the death of Ji Youyan, the nation’s rising movie queen, from drunken despair. Soon after, headlines break again—the wedding is abruptly called off.
First Impressions
"My Feelings Can Wait" is a yuri web novel that took me on an emotional rollercoaster. If you're looking for a sweet and fluffy story, this isn't it. This novel dives deep into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of second chances, personal growth, and overcoming past mistakes. Be prepared to shed some tears. From the beginning, I was drawn into the story of Ji Youyan and Jing Xiu, two women whose relationship ended tragically in their first life. The novel opens with their reunion after Ji Youyan is reborn, giving her a chance to right her wrongs. I immediately felt invested i...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
Miss Cousin is Always Busy
4.5
(207 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy
Jun Zishu was interning as a fate changer. Her character setting was designated as her mission target’s cousin, and her goal was to save her mission targets from their tragic fates.
First Impressions
"Miss Cousin is Always Busy" is a novel that's been on my radar for a while, and after finally diving in, I can see why it's so popular. It's a quick transmigration story with a yuri twist, following Jun Zishu as she travels to different worlds, each with its own unique setting and mission. While it's not without its flaws, the overall experience was engaging and enjoyable. Initially, I was a bit hesitant. Quick transmigration can be hit or miss, and the sheer number of chapters felt daunting. However, the premise of a capable, sometimes icy, protagonist navigating various worlds with a focus ...
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Completed
8
#8 PICK
I Became the Academy’s Pink Airhead
4.4
(240 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
A city of academies where high school girls converse with swords and spears in hand. A comedy character who loves macarons and a cup of tea.
First Impressions
"I Became the Academy’s Pink Airhead" is a wild ride, no doubt about it. This novel throws you headfirst into Academy City, where all-girls schools reign supreme and Ether is the name of the game. A gender-bent protagonist, a dash of martial arts, and a whole lot of chaotic energy? Sign me up! Initially, I was a bit disoriented. The story jumps ahead after a prologue showing a major battle. We meet Clara, our MC, a pink-haired "airhead" who seems to have it all figured out, even if she acts like she doesn't. I quickly realized that this disorientation is intentional, mirroring Clara's own adju...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
I Am Fish Meat
4.5
(77 ratings)
Genre: drama, historical, martial arts
Approach her, serve her, please her, and then kill her. “The heart is like a double silk net, with thousands of knots within.
First Impressions
"I Am Fish Meat," also known as "At Her Mercy," is a historical yuri novel that completely swept me away. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into a world of political intrigue, complex characters, and a slow-burn romance that kept me on the edge of my seat. The initial setup is gripping. Alai, born into servitude and trained in martial arts by her mysterious mother, is thrust into a dangerous game of assassination. Her target? The brilliant and ruthless Wei Zizhuo. I was immediately hooked by the cat-and-mouse dynamic between them and the high stakes involved. The title may sound odd, bu...
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Completed
10
#10 PICK
The Vicious Supporting Female Character And The White Lotus Female Lead
4.4
(173 ratings)
Genre: adventure, comedy, drama
Luan Qingxiao became a member of the Plot Amendment Research Institute, and already encountered a hurdle on her first mission. She was to play the role of the antagonist, who would become the fuel the male and female lead needed to finally fall in love.
First Impressions
This web novel, "The Vicious Supporting Female Character And The White Lotus Female Lead," promised a fluffy, yuri-filled adventure, and for the most part, it delivered. It’s a quick transmigration story, and while it had its ups and downs, I found myself ultimately enjoying the ride. The premise is intriguing: a protagonist tasked with playing a villainess to make the female lead happy in various worlds. The initial hook of her cleverly finding loopholes to avoid actually hurting the FL, while still completing her missions, was definitely a highlight. I was immediately drawn in by the potenti...
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Completed
11
#11 PICK
Jiao Huan Ying Hou
4.4
(174 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, romance
Ruan Yesheng was an out-of-date star; while Xi Mo, who had risen to fame within the same period, was now like the Goddess of the people. That was the case, until a horrifying attack which happened without warning, occurred at the conference.
First Impressions
"Jiao Huan Ying Hou" (After Exchanging Shadows) has completely charmed me, and I can definitely see why it's garnered such a dedicated following. This yuri novel about two actresses who body swap is a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and heartwarming romance, and I'm eager to see where the story goes. From the get-go, I was hooked by the premise. The body swap trope is a classic, but setting it within the cutthroat world of showbiz adds a unique layer of intrigue. The contrast between the two leads – a struggling, almost-forgotten actress and a celebrated movie empress – creates immediate te...
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Conclusion

Yuri is a smaller genre in web novels, so this list may not be as extensive as other categories. If you enjoy the genre, consider looking at related tags like shoujo-ai for less explicit options, or checking novels where yuri is a secondary element alongside other genres.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our rankings consider multiple factors: reader ratings (40%), popularity and reading lists (25%), review quality (20%), and editorial assessment (15%). We update regularly to reflect new releases and changing reader preferences.

We update our rankings monthly to ensure they reflect the latest reader ratings and new novel releases.

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

The Speedrun Manual of Miss Witch

First Impressions

The Dragon

First Impressions

A Maiden’s Unwanted Heroic Epic

First Impressions

Who Moved My Ashes

First Impressions

Villainess, I’ll Pamper You

First Impressions

My Feelings Can Wait

First Impressions

Miss Cousin is Always Busy

First Impressions

I Became the Academy’s Pink Airhead

First Impressions

I Am Fish Meat

First Impressions