Top 21 Merchants Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Editor's Picks

21 Novels

Merchant novels focus on economic gameplay rather than combat. Protagonists succeed through trade, negotiation, and business acumen. I appreciate these as palate cleansers between combat-heavy series since the stakes differ fundamentally. Building commercial empires scratches a different itch than cultivation or dungeon clearing.

The subgenre works best when authors understand economics well enough to make business decisions feel meaningful. Some entries here feature protagonists introducing modern business concepts to fantasy settings. Others focus on trading rare materials or establishing merchant guilds. The formula can feel slow if you want action, but the progression satisfaction of watching wealth accumulate appeals to specific tastes.

Completed
1
TOP PICK
The Legendary Moonlight Sculptor
4.3
(1.8K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
The man forsaken by the world, the man a s*ave to money and the man known as the legendary God of War in the highly popular MMORPG Continent of Magic. With the coming of age, he decides to say goodbye, but the feeble attempt to earn a little something for his time and effort ripples into an effe...
First Impressions
"The Legendary Moonlight Sculptor" is a web novel that I finally decided to dive into after hearing about it for years. It's a sprawling story, and while I found aspects to enjoy, I also encountered some frustrations along the way. It's a mixed bag, but one that has some real gems hidden inside. Initially, I was hooked by the VRMMORPG setting and the promise of adventure. The main character, Weed (also known as Lee Hyun), is certainly unique. He's driven by a need for money, stemming from a difficult past, and his single-minded focus creates some genuinely funny situations. The early chapters ...
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2
RUNNER UP
Reverend Insanity
4.3
(1.6K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
Human beings are the very spirit of all life, while Gu embody the essence of heaven and earth. When one’s worldview, values, and philosophy become twisted, they are no longer human but demon reborn.
First Impressions
"Reverend Insanity" is a web novel that I dove into with a mix of excitement and trepidation, given its reputation. It's a xianxia story, but not quite like any I've encountered before. The sheer volume of content available is impressive, but does the story live up to the hype? After spending a significant amount of time with it, here are my thoughts. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of a truly ruthless protagonist. So many novels claim to have an 'evil' MC, but quickly fall into anti-hero tropes. "Reverend Insanity" seemed different. Fang Yuan, the main character, is dedicated to his ...
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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Return of Mount Hua Sect
4.5
(448 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
The 13th generation disciple of the Great Mount Hua Sect. One of the Three Great Swordsmen.
First Impressions
"Return of Mount Hua Sect" is a wild ride through the wuxia world, and I can definitely see why it's garnered so much love. It's a story about Chung Myung, an old ancestor reincarnated into the declining Mount Hua Sect, and his hilarious, often chaotic, journey to restore it to its former glory. Initially, I wasn't sure what to expect. The premise is familiar – reincarnation, martial arts, a fallen sect – but the execution is what sets this novel apart. It’s a blend of action, adventure, and laugh-out-loud comedy, with a surprising amount of depth lurking beneath the surface. The first few cha...
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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
There’s Absolutely No Problem With The Magic Cards I Made!
4.6
(269 ratings)
Genre: comedy, mystery, psychological
“Why is this [Summoning Card: Goblin] wearing a mask? ” “Because it’s a Goblin Gangster!
First Impressions
This web novel has been quite a ride, and I can definitely see why it's garnered a lot of positive attention. "There's Absolutely No Problem With The Magic Cards I Made!" is a unique blend of genres, mixing comedy, mystery, and xuanhuan elements into a world where magic cards reign supreme. It’s not perfect, but the sheer entertainment value makes it a worthwhile read. Initially, I was drawn in by the unique premise. A reincarnated protagonist in a world powered by magic cards? Sign me up! The early chapters introduce Dekan, our MC, who quickly establishes himself as a card maker with a knack ...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
If You Don’t Become the Main Character, You’ll Die
4.8
(282 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
I suddenly found myself dropped into a fantasy kingdom story. But what’s the status of my scenario importance?
First Impressions
"If You Don’t Become the Main Character, You’ll Die" is a wild ride that I'm so glad I decided to jump on. With a near-perfect rating and a sprawling storyline, I was intrigued, and after diving in, I can definitely see why it's so beloved. It's a unique blend of genres, and the execution is what really makes it shine. Initially, the title and summary made me think this would be another run-of-the-mill transmigration story. You know, the kind where the protagonist just clings to the main character for survival. But boy, was I wrong! From the get-go, the author throws you into a world brimming ...
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6
#6 PICK
To Be a Power in the Shadows! (WN)
4.4
(1.6K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Just like how everyone adores heroes in their childhood, a certain boy adored those who hid in the shadows. One day, after living the mediocre life of a side character while undergoing frenzied training by night, he reincarnates in a different world and gains ultimate power.
First Impressions
I dove into "To Be a Power in the Shadows!" with a healthy dose of curiosity, and I've come out the other side with quite a few thoughts. This web novel is definitely... something. It's a wild ride that blends action, comedy, and fantasy in a way that's both incredibly entertaining and, at times, utterly baffling. Initially, I was hooked by the premise. The idea of a protagonist who's convinced he's living out a chuunibyou fantasy, only for it to actually be real, is comedy gold. The early chapters had me laughing out loud. It's a unique twist on the isekai genre, and I appreciated the author'...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
I am the Monarch
4.2
(1.1K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
Roan ran away 20 years ago from his rural village in the aim of becoming a Great General. However, all he got 20 years later was just a handful of money and the lowly position of squad commander of the First Legion’s.
First Impressions
"I am the Monarch" is a web novel that initially grabbed my attention with its premise: a soldier gets a second chance at life, armed with the knowledge of the future. The blend of action, adventure, and kingdom-building elements promised an engaging read, and for a while, it delivered. The early chapters pulled me in with the classic reincarnation trope, but with a twist. It wasn’t just about knowing what was going to happen; it was about how the protagonist, Roan, would use that knowledge to forge a different path. The initial focus on military strategy and character development was definite...
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8
#8 PICK
I’m the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!
4.3
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Liam Sera Banfield is a reincarnator. He had reincarnated into a fantasy world of magic and swords, but at the time the civilization had already been making advancements into outer space.
First Impressions
"I’m the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!" is a web novel that certainly sparks a range of opinions, and after diving in, I can see why. It's a blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and comedy, centered around a protagonist who's trying to be evil but hilariously failing at every turn. Whether that sounds appealing or not will likely determine your enjoyment. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise. A reincarnation story where the MC aims to be an evil overlord in a space-faring society? Sign me up! The early chapters set the stage, introducing us to Liam and the circumstances of his new life. Howe...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
The Only Favourite Ugly Husband
4.2
(546 ratings)
Genre: romance, slice of life, yaoi
Jiang Zhen crossed into ancient times and became the old bachelor eldest Jiang who was neglected by his whole family in Hexi Village. He was born into a good family, but the eldest Jiang was busy all year and couldn’t even eat a full meal.
First Impressions
"The Only Favourite Ugly Husband" presents a unique premise: a reincarnated special forces soldier finding love with a "ugly" ger in an ancient, impoverished setting. I found myself drawn in by the initial world-building and the promise of a different kind of historical romance. While the novel has its strengths, some later plot developments and character choices left me feeling conflicted. The early chapters hooked me with the MC, Jiang Zhen's, directness and the ML, Zhao Jinge's, quiet strength. The stark contrast to typical ancient romance settings, with its focus on rural life and genuine ...
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10
#10 PICK
Isekai Tensei Soudouki
4.4
(441 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Baldr Cornelius is the son of a noble of the Mauricia kingdom and inside him also dwell the souls of the avaricious warring states commander Oka Sanai Sadatoshi and animal ear otaku high schooler Oka Masaharu. Follow the journey of these 3 souls in a single body, as they exhibit extraordinary ab...
First Impressions
Isekai Tensei Soudouki is one of those novels that really grabbed my attention with its unique premise. A single body housing three distinct souls? I was definitely intrigued. While it has its share of familiar isekai tropes, it also attempts to carve out its own identity. The initial hook of this story is undeniably strong. I was immediately drawn to the dynamic between the three personalities inhabiting young Bard Cornelius: his original self, a money-obsessed samurai from the Edo period, and a chuunibyou-afflicted modern-day otaku. This trio makes for some genuinely humorous and interesting...
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Completed
11
#11 PICK
To Rule in a Turbulent World
4.7
(240 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
Loosely based on the history of Song Dynasty, To Rule in a Turbulent World tells the story of You Miao—the dandy son of a merchant who climbed his way to the very top from rock bottom. We witness the history of a nation, from prosperity to decline, to a new order.
First Impressions
"To Rule in a Turbulent World" has been quite the journey! I went in expecting a standard historical BL, but what I found was a richly detailed world filled with complex characters and compelling political intrigue. It definitely exceeded my expectations. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: a spoiled young master and a rescued slave navigating life as merchants in ancient China. The first book acts as a long introduction, but it didn't feel slow or boring. Instead, it carefully laid the foundation for what was to come, building both the story and the characters at a satisfying pace....
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Completed
12
#12 PICK
Galactic Dark Net
4.0
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
When the last prodigy level esper on Earth disappeared, Earth was in deep trouble of becoming another species’ colony. The ordinary Han, with his intelligence and hardworking character, was able to make a fortune after “accidentally” stepping into the world of dark net, later purchasing an esper...
First Impressions
"Galactic Dark Net" is a web novel that immediately grabbed my attention with its blend of sci-fi, xuanhuan, and action. The premise is intriguing: a protagonist navigating a galactic dark net in a futuristic world. While the execution has its flaws, there's a certain charm that keeps me hooked. The initial chapters are intense, throwing you headfirst into a world of illegal drugs, slavery, and organ trafficking. The MC's involvement with the Dark Net is captivating, and I was eager to see where the story would lead. The early setup on Earth, as a weak planet in the Galaxy Union, was a great b...
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Conclusion

Merchant novels attract readers who enjoy economic strategy and gradual empire building. Combat typically takes a backseat, which limits crossover appeal. If you find satisfaction in trade negotiations and market manipulation rather than battle sequences, these entries offer that specific flavor. Otherwise, consider more action-oriented alternatives.

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 Legendary Moonlight Sculptor

First Impressions

Reverend Insanity

First Impressions

Return of Mount Hua Sect

First Impressions

There’s Absolutely No Problem With The Magic Cards I Made!

First Impressions

If You Don’t Become the Main Character, You’ll Die

First Impressions

To Be a Power in the Shadows! (WN)

First Impressions

I am the Monarch

First Impressions

I’m the Evil Lord of an Intergalactic Empire!

First Impressions

The Only Favourite Ugly Husband

First Impressions

Isekai Tensei Soudouki

First Impressions