Top 21 Ancient Times Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Editor's Picks

21 Novels

Ancient times settings offer different dynamics than modern or fantasy worlds. Historical constraints shape conflicts around technology limits, social hierarchies, and period-appropriate concerns. Chinese novels set in ancient China explore imperial courts and martial arts. Korean historical novels often involve transmigration into Joseon-era settings.

The appeal varies by what readers want from history. Some enjoy the escapism of different eras, others appreciate how historical settings frame familiar conflicts differently. These entries use ancient settings meaningfully rather than as superficial window dressing.

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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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RUNNER UP
To Be A Virtuous Wife
4.5
(1.8K ratings)
Genre: adult, drama, fantasy
As a virtuous wife, does it include tolerating his cousin, enduring his concubines, bearing his mother? If you will not let me live freely, why would I let you live in satisfaction?
First Impressions
"To Be A Virtuous Wife" initially caught my eye with its intriguing premise: a modern woman transmigrating into the body of an ancient Chinese noblewoman. I was curious to see how she'd navigate the complexities of court life and a potentially loveless marriage. After diving in, I found myself with mixed feelings, landing somewhere between captivated and slightly underwhelmed. The novel throws you right into the thick of things, with Qu Qing Ju waking up as a Wang Fei, a princess consort. I immediately appreciated the slice-of-life feel, focusing on the day-to-day management of the household, ...
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HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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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EDITORS CHOICE
Eight Treasures Trousseau
4.5
(1.4K ratings)
Genre: drama, fantasy, historical
Everyone in the City of Jing thinks that bestowment of marriage between Xian Junwang and the daughter of the Yi’an Marquis House is to insert a fresh flower into manure. Xian Junwang was that fresh flower and the Di daughter of Yi’an Marquis House was that manure that was not liked.
First Impressions
"Eight Treasures Trousseau" has been quite the journey, and I've come away with some mixed, yet ultimately positive, feelings. This novel, set in a fascinating ancient China-esque backdrop, weaves a tale of political intrigue, arranged marriage, and a touch of the supernatural. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: a modern-day actress reincarnated as a beautiful, but seemingly apathetic, noble wife. It's a familiar trope, but the promise of a lazy, yet secretly capable, protagonist was intriguing. I found myself curious to see how this character would navigate the complexities of court li...
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EDITORS CHOICE
Spring Trees and Sunset Clouds
4.5
(973 ratings)
Genre: drama, fantasy, mystery
ExR’s summary: An average, ordinary university student had his first life burned away in a painful death from a fire, causing him to transmigrate into a prince of another universe. However, never did he expected that his younger brother, who he fiercely protected and ultimately brought to the th...
First Impressions
"Spring Trees and Sunset Clouds" promised a heartwarming escape, and for the most part, it delivered. This novel offers a blend of slice-of-life, romance, and a touch of mystery, all set in an ancient-times-esque world. I found myself drawn into the protagonist's journey of healing and self-discovery, even if the road wasn't always smooth. Initially, I was captivated by the story's premise: a man, broken by betrayal and trauma, finding himself in a seemingly idyllic village. The early chapters focused on his integration into this new community, and I appreciated the slow, deliberate pace. It f...
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#6 PICK
Chronicles of Primordial Wars
4.5
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, martial arts
Shao Xuan joins a friend in his expedition to a recently discovered archaeological cave. After he picks up an ordinary looking stone he is teleported to a different world and wakes up in the body of a small orphan child.
First Impressions
"Chronicles of Primordial Wars" is a web novel that took me by surprise. With a solid 4.5/5 rating and a slew of glowing reviews, I had high expectations going in, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a unique blend of action, adventure, and xuanhuan set in a primordial world, and the story's originality is definitely one of its strongest points. Initially, the pacing is slow. The story eases you into this ancient, tribal setting. We follow our protagonist as he adapts to life in the body of a young orphan in this harsh, Stone Age world. It's a far cry from the typical cultivation novel, ...
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#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 PICK
Mistakenly Saving the Villain
4.6
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: drama, mature, psychological
Professor System has issued a mission: to rescue the gentle, kind and tragic protagonist shou of the novel “The Exceptional Furnace”. Song ‘Scholar-Tyrant’ Qingshi: “Don’t worry, Professor!
First Impressions
"Mistakenly Saving the Villain" is quite the rollercoaster, and I’m honestly still processing everything. This novel dives deep into some heavy themes, and while it’s not always an easy read, it’s definitely a memorable one. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise – a transmigration story where the MC accidentally saves the villain instead of the intended target. This setup felt like a refreshing twist on familiar tropes. However, I also approached it with caution, given the mature themes and potential for triggering content....
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#9 PICK
The Prince’s Loyal Lover
4.4
(902 ratings)
Genre: comedy, historical, romance
Tao Wen transmigrated and discovered that he had become the brutal s*um lover in a tragic novel that he had just read. That s*um character was a prince who, instead of living a luxurious life in peace, always made trouble for his brother, the emperor.
First Impressions
"The Prince's Loyal Lover" is a quick and quirky read, perfect if you're looking for something light and fluffy to fill a spare hour. The premise is simple: a modern guy transmigrates into a novel he was reading, becomes a prince, and immediately sets his sights on seducing his bodyguard. It's a bit absurd, and definitely not a story to take too seriously, but it does have a certain charm. The humor is definitely a strong point. I found myself chuckling at the MC's shameless antics and the overall silliness of the situation. It’s the kind of story where you can turn your brain off and just enj...
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#10 PICK
I Really Am a Slag Shou!
4.5
(772 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, fantasy
Chi Zhao binds with the slag shou system, and if he succeeds in his missions, he will be rewarded. But who said life is easy!
First Impressions
"I Really Am a Slag Shou!" is a completed quick transmigration novel that I finally got around to reading. It's a rollercoaster of comedy, drama, and romance, all wrapped up in a package that, while not perfect, proved to be quite enjoyable. The premise is certainly intriguing: an MC tasked with playing the role of a "slag shou" (a scummy love interest) in various worlds to torment the ML. The catch? He's too kind-hearted to actually pull it off. This immediately sets the stage for humorous situations and a system driven to the brink of madness. I found myself chuckling early on at the MC's at...
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#11 PICK
My Darling, Coax Me
4.5
(276 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, historical
Yun Ling was a humble little palace maid. She had a secret: she knew that the Sixth Prince, currently confined to the Cold Palace, was destined to be the future Crown Prince.
First Impressions
"My Darling, Coax Me" promised a historical romance with a strong female lead and a cold male lead, and for the most part, it delivered. I went into this novel expecting a compelling love story set against the backdrop of ancient China, and I wasn't entirely disappointed. The initial chapters grabbed my attention with their fast-paced narrative. I was immediately drawn to Yun Ling, our palace maid protagonist. Her intelligence and resourcefulness in a challenging environment made her instantly likable. The dynamic between her and Xie Jue, the domineering prince, was intriguing, if a little uns...
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#12 PICK
After Marrying the Evil God
4.5
(370 ratings)
Genre: comedy, fantasy, romance
Qi Baicha was the last god in the world. He lived until the modern age, where he found an ordinary person to fall in love with and marry because life was too boring.
First Impressions
"After Marrying the Evil God" promised a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and fantasy, and for the most part, it delivered. The premise alone – two gods unknowingly married to each other while in human guises – is ripe with comedic potential, and the early chapters certainly capitalize on that. I found myself chuckling at their attempts to prolong each other's perceived "human" lifespans, a truly adorable dynamic that hooked me in. The initial chapters are a whirlwind of sweetness and lighthearted misunderstandings. The author masterfully sets the stage for a story brimming with potential,...
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Conclusion

Ancient times as a tag covers genuine historical settings, not just vaguely old-fashioned fantasy. Check individual entries for specific eras and regions. The quality of historical detail varies, so reader reviews help identify which novels satisfy history enthusiasts versus those using history loosely.

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

Heaven Official’s Blessing

First Impressions

To Be A Virtuous Wife

First Impressions

Devil Venerable Also Wants to Know

First Impressions

Eight Treasures Trousseau

First Impressions

Spring Trees and Sunset Clouds

First Impressions

Chronicles of Primordial Wars

First Impressions

Ascending, Do Not Disturb

First Impressions

Mistakenly Saving the Villain

First Impressions

The Prince’s Loyal Lover

First Impressions

I Really Am a Slag Shou!

First Impressions