Top 25 Historical Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

By Genre

25 Novels

Historical novels in web fiction usually draw from Chinese, Japanese, or Korean history rather than Western settings. Court intrigue, warring states, and dynastic transitions provide rich backdrops. Many combine historical elements with transmigration, creating tension between modern knowledge and historical constraints.

I appreciate historical novels respecting their settings' logic rather than using history as costume. Better entries engage with period-appropriate challenges and social structures. Characters can't ignore historical realities just because they have modern knowledge. That tension 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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RUNNER UP
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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HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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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EDITORS CHOICE
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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EDITORS CHOICE
The Job of an Imperial Concubine
4.6
(664 ratings)
Genre: drama, fantasy, historical
To pass as an imperial concubine, one must be professional. Actually, the profession of an imperial concubine is pretty good.
First Impressions
"The Job of an Imperial Concubine" had me intrigued from the start with its premise: treating life in the harem as a career. I dove in expecting a compelling story of palace intrigue, and while I found a lot to enjoy, some aspects held it back from being a complete knockout. The concept is undeniably clever. Zhuang Laoyan, our protagonist, approaches her role with a calculating mind, prioritizing power and luxury within the system. She's intelligent, perhaps even overly so, and this initially drew me in. I was eager to see how she navigated the treacherous waters of the imperial court....
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#6 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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#7 PICK
Those Years In Quest Of Honour Mine
4.6
(576 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, historical
Yu Ziyou and Zhong Wan served different masters. They had once been the closest of souls, and were the bitterest of enemies.
First Impressions
This novel has been quite the ride! I dove in expecting a historical romance, and while that's certainly present, "Those Years In Quest Of Honour Mine" offers so much more than just that. It's a blend of comedy, drama, and political intrigue, all wrapped around the central relationship between the main characters. Initially, I was a little thrown off by the pacing. The story starts slowly, and it took me a bit to get fully invested in the world and the characters. However, I soon found myself drawn in by the complex dynamic between Zhong Wan, the clever and shameless MC, and Yu She, the troubl...
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#8 PICK
Qiang Jin Jiu
4.6
(593 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, drama
The six prefectures of Zhongbo were offered to foreign enemies on a silver platter, and Shen Zechuan was taken into custody in the capital, reduced to a drowning dog—loathed and condemned by all. Xiao Chiye followed the scent of the furor and made his way over.
First Impressions
"Qiang Jin Jiu" has been quite the ride, and I can definitely see why it's garnered so much attention. It’s a sprawling historical drama with political intrigue and a central romance that isn’t for the faint of heart. This isn't a light and fluffy read, but a deep dive into a complex world. Initially, I felt a bit overwhelmed. The sheer number of characters and the intricate political landscape were a lot to take in. Several readers have mentioned that the first few chapters require patience as the world-building is dense, but I found that sticking with it was worth the effort. I was quickly d...
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#9 PICK
After Transmigrating into a Book, My Father Emperor Could Hear My Inner Voice
4.7
(506 ratings)
Genre: comedy, fantasy, historical
I am Zhao Tangtang, the sixth princess of the Zhao Kingdom. I thought I would always be an unpampered salted fish forever, but when I was six years old, my father emperor suddenly had the ability to read heart voices and I was pampered to the sky.
First Impressions
I recently dove into "After Transmigrating into a Book, My Father Emperor Could Hear My Inner Voice," and I have to say, it was quite the delightful little escape. As someone who enjoys a good dose of fluff and humor, this novel definitely hit the spot. It's a quick read, perfect for when you want something light and entertaining. The premise immediately grabbed my attention: a transmigrated protagonist whose inner thoughts are audible to her father, the Emperor. It's a recipe for comedic gold, and the novel largely delivers on that promise. The story plunges you right into the action, and the...
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#10 PICK
Peerless
4.7
(584 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
On the Third-Year of Kaihuang, as the Great Sui unfolds its curtains to welcome the glorious Tang Dynasty in succession to the Northern Dynasty, Yang Jian established a secret agency, the Jiejian Bureau in preparation to unify the world. In a stormy night filled with snow, a convoy of tribute se...
First Impressions
"Peerless" is a web novel that truly lived up to its name. From the moment I started reading, I was drawn into its intricate world of political intrigue, complex characters, and witty banter. It's one of those stories that sticks with you long after you've finished the last page. Honestly, the synopsis was a bit overwhelming at first glance, with all the genres and tags listed. However, once I dove in, I quickly realized the author, Meng Xi Shi, masterfully weaves together action, mystery, comedy, and romance into a cohesive and compelling narrative. The initial mystery surrounding the missing...
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#11 PICK
Youjo Senki
4.7
(427 ratings)
Genre: action, comedy, fantasy
On the front line of the war, there’s a little girl. Blond hair, blue eyes and porcelain white skin, she commands the army with lisping voice.
First Impressions
Youjo Senki is a fascinating isekai novel that throws you headfirst into a gritty, war-torn world. It's not your typical power fantasy; instead, it's a complex and often philosophical exploration of war, faith, and the human condition, all wrapped up in a package featuring a… well, let's just say "unique" protagonist. From the get-go, Youjo Senki sets itself apart. The premise alone – a salaryman reincarnated as a little girl battling in a world reminiscent of World War I/II with added magic – is intriguing. What really grabbed me was the anti-hero protagonist, Tanya. She's cynical, ruthless, ...
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#12 PICK
A Precious Pearl in the Imperial City
4.6
(281 ratings)
Genre: comedy, fantasy, historical
There are three treasures in the imperial city: Me, my husband and my mother-in-law. Su Guifei¹ was favored and envied by countless imperial consorts in the harem.
First Impressions
"A Precious Pearl in the Imperial City" is a delightful read that left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. This historical romance, with its comedic undertones and sweet slice-of-life moments, is like a comforting cup of tea on a rainy day. While it might not be the most complex or groundbreaking novel, it certainly excels at delivering a heartwarming and enjoyable experience. From the very beginning, I was charmed by the unconventional female lead, Ming Jiuzhu. Raised by Daoists, she possesses a refreshing innocence and a unique perspective that often leaves those around her utterly baffled...
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#13 PICK
I Raised A Sick And Weak Prince
4.7
(323 ratings)
Genre: fantasy, historical, romance
Suxi, who had been well cared for since childhood and had achieved excellent results, was a good girl everyone liked. Lu Xun was exiled from his childhood and suffered humiliation before he became an emperor.
First Impressions
"I Raised A Sick And Weak Prince" had been sitting on my to-read list for a while, and I finally dove in. This historical fantasy romance, with a dash of slice of life, promised a unique premise, and I was eager to see if it delivered. Overall, I found it to be a charming and heartwarming read, though not without a few minor drawbacks. The initial hook is definitely intriguing: a modern-day high school student, Su Xi, finds a mobile game that connects her to a sickly, abused prince in ancient China. The idea of raising a character through an app, only to discover he's a real person, is undenia...
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Conclusion

Historical accuracy varies significantly. Some authors research extensively, others use loose historical flavor. If accuracy matters, reviews often indicate how seriously novels take their foundations. Rankings prioritize storytelling quality over historical precision.

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 Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage

First Impressions

Golden Stage

First Impressions

Our Second Master

First Impressions

Married Thrice to Salted Fish

First Impressions

The Job of an Imperial Concubine

First Impressions

Mulberry Song

First Impressions

Those Years In Quest Of Honour Mine

First Impressions

Qiang Jin Jiu

First Impressions

After Transmigrating into a Book, My Father Emperor Could Hear My Inner Voice

First Impressions

Peerless

First Impressions

Youjo Senki

First Impressions

A Precious Pearl in the Imperial City

First Impressions