Top 21 Historical Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

By Genre

21 Novels

Historical novels in the web novel space usually draw from Chinese, Japanese, or Korean history rather than Western settings. Court intrigue, warring states periods, and dynastic transitions provide rich backdrops. Many combine historical elements with transmigration premises, creating an interesting blend of modern sensibilities navigating historical constraints.

I appreciate historical novels that respect their settings' logic rather than just using history as costume. The better entries here engage with period-appropriate challenges and social structures. Characters can't just ignore historical realities because they have modern knowledge. That tension between what protagonists know and what they can actually do in context often creates the most interesting narratives.

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TOP PICK
The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage
4.6
(2.7K ratings)
Genre: fantasy, historical, josei
Shen Miao, the Di daughter of a military family, was pure, quiet, gentle, and gracious. Because of her foolish love for Prince Ding, she forced her way into becoming his wife.
First Impressions
"The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage" is a web novel that I found myself thoroughly engrossed in, despite a few reservations. It's a complex tale of revenge, political intrigue, and slow-burn romance, all set against the backdrop of ancient China. From the start, I was drawn in by the premise. Shen Miao, a former empress reborn into her younger self, is determined to rewrite her tragic past. It's a familiar setup, but the execution felt fresh. I was immediately invested in her journey and eager to see how she would use her knowledge to dismantle her enemies....
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2
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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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
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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5
EDITORS CHOICE
Golden Stage
4.6
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: drama, historical, mature
The notorious imperial court lackey and the meritorious military general were well-known for their mutual dislike, a pair of arch-enemies set in stone. Who could have foreseen the unexpected change in the winds of heaven: the general injured on the battlefield, both legs disabled, and even force...
First Impressions
"Golden Stage" promised a blend of political intrigue and sweet romance, and after diving in, I can definitely see why it has such a dedicated following. This historical yaoi novel, with its adapted-to-drama-cd status, had me intrigued from the start. Initially, I was a little hesitant. Some mentioned the preface being dense, but I'm glad I pushed through. I was immediately drawn into the complex world of ancient China, and the setup of a forced marriage between "enemies" Fu Shen and Yan Xiaohan was compelling. The initial chapters are a bit heavy, but they set the stage well....
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#6 PICK
Thousand Autumns
4.5
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Yan Wushi had walked a path full of blood and corpses. He did not believe in the good nature of humanity.
First Impressions
"Thousand Autumns" has been quite the ride! Diving into this wuxia world felt like stepping into a meticulously crafted tapestry of ancient China, martial arts, and complex characters. I found myself completely absorbed in Shen Qiao's journey, and even though the romance took a backseat for much of the story, I was invested in the overall narrative. Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a kind-hearted MC, and Shen Qiao definitely delivered. He's not your typical overpowered protagonist; instead, he's a strong, principled character who faces betrayal and hardship with unwavering resolve. ...
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7
#7 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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#8 PICK
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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9
#9 PICK
Stone Age Husband Raising Journal
4.5
(814 ratings)
Genre: adventure, fantasy, historical
What should you do when the person you like is no longer loyal? Find another one!
First Impressions
"Stone Age Husband Raising Journal" was quite the journey, and while it wasn't perfect, I found myself charmed by its unique blend of prehistoric setting and fluffy romance. It's definitely a novel that sticks with you, even after turning the final page. Initially, the transmigration tag gave me pause, but I quickly found myself drawn into the story. The premise is simple: a modern individual ends up in a prehistoric world filled with beastkin and dinosaurs (sort of). It’s a feel-good slice of life with a unique twist. I was immediately invested in how the protagonist would adapt and thrive....
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#10 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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11
#11 PICK
Mulberry Song
4.7
(698 ratings)
Genre: drama, historical, josei
One leap from the city tower thus fulfills the Marquis of Chang Ye’s triumph in conquering the world, establishing a new era. Yet she only turns into a lonely wisp, accompanying him day and night.
First Impressions
"Mulberry Song" is a short but emotionally charged story that left a lasting impression on me. Diving into this novel was like stepping into a melancholic painting, beautiful yet tinged with sadness. It's a tale of love, loss, and regret set against the backdrop of ancient China, and it definitely isn't a lighthearted read. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: a ghost of a woman observing her husband, the emperor, as he grapples with guilt and grief over her death. The idea of seeing his suffering through her eyes was intriguing, and I was curious to see how the author would handle such a...
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12
#12 PICK
Sharing Rain and Dew
4.5
(619 ratings)
Genre: comedy, fantasy, historical
Ever since I was reborn ah, I received affections from that scum* ~ This harem has three thousand beauties, but he only favors me! So I tried to persuade him ah, must ‘rain~ nectar~ evenly~ spread~ ‘** , but he just won’t listen!
First Impressions
"Sharing Rain and Dew" is a short and sweet historical fantasy romance that I found to be a charming, if somewhat initially confusing, read. It's a quick dip into a world of emperors, harems, and a whole lot of second chances, wrapped up in a comedic package. While it might not be the most in-depth story, it definitely has a certain heartwarming quality that kept me engaged. I'll admit, the beginning was a bit disorienting. The story jumps right into the present timeline without much backstory, leaving you to piece things together. I was definitely scratching my head trying to figure out the d...
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Conclusion

Historical accuracy varies significantly in web novels. Some authors research extensively while others use loose historical flavor. If accuracy matters to you, reader reviews often indicate how seriously specific novels take their historical foundations. These rankings prioritize storytelling quality over historical precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our rankings combine reader ratings (40%), popularity metrics (25%), engagement data (20%), and editorial review (15%). We update rankings quarterly to reflect the latest reader sentiments.

The best historical novels excel in their genre-specific elements while delivering compelling characters and plots. Reader satisfaction and re-readability are key factors in our selection.

We update our rankings quarterly throughout 2026 to incorporate new releases, changing reader preferences, and updated rating data.

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 Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage

First Impressions

To Be A Virtuous Wife

First Impressions

Eight Treasures Trousseau

First Impressions

The Disabled Tyrant’s Pet Palm Fish [Transmigration]

First Impressions

Golden Stage

First Impressions

Thousand Autumns

First Impressions

Our Second Master

First Impressions

After the Disabled God of War Became My Concubine

First Impressions

Stone Age Husband Raising Journal

First Impressions

Married Thrice to Salted Fish

First Impressions