Top 25 Martial arts Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

By Genre

25 Novels

Martial arts novels live or die by their combat systems and power progression. I've read through countless cultivation stories where punching harder is the only development, but the best entries here actually think through their martial philosophies. You'll find traditional wuxia focused on technique and honor alongside xuanhuan where cultivators throw around continent-shattering attacks. Both have their place depending on what you're in the mood for.

The genre has a reputation problem with repetitive tournament arcs and face-slapping sequences. Fair criticism, honestly. But when a martial arts novel gets it right, there's nothing quite like following a protagonist from humble disciple to sect master. These 25 picks minimize the padding while maximizing the satisfying progression beats that make the genre addictive.

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1
TOP PICK
T*ash of the Count’s Family
4.5
(3.3K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
When I opened my eyes, I was inside a novel. I became a part of that novel as the tr*sh of the Count’s family, the family that oversaw the territory where the first village that Choi Han visits is located.
First Impressions
I finally dove into Tash of the Count’s Family, and I have to say, it's quite the ride. With its high overall rating and a massive list of tags, I was definitely curious to see what all the hype was about. Having read a fair chunk of it, I can see the appeal, but also some of the issues that might turn readers off. Initially, the premise felt familiar: a Korean transmigrator ends up in the body of a trashy noble within a novel he'd read. The MC's goal? To live a peaceful, wealthy life, avoiding all conflict. I was a little worried it would be another generic "lazy MC gets dragged into trouble"...
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2
RUNNER UP
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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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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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4
EDITORS CHOICE
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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5
EDITORS CHOICE
Sha Po Lang
4.6
(743 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, martial arts
“The first person to dig ziliujin fuel out of the ground could never have predicted that what they dug out was the beginning of a dog-eat-dog age. Our entire life was but an ugly confidence game of greed; this is something everyone knows, but that they could not bring to light.
First Impressions
"Sha Po Lang" is a novel that’s been on my radar for a while, and after diving in, I can see why it garners so much praise, even if it didn't completely blow me away. It's definitely a unique read, blending elements of steampunk, political intrigue, and romance in a way that sets it apart from many web novels in the genre. Initially, I was drawn in by the world-building. The concept of an ancient China powered by "ziliujin" (violetstream gold) is fascinating, and the mecha elements add a layer of excitement. The setup, with a mature-for-his-age young protagonist and his complex relationship wi...
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6
#6 PICK
Faraway Wanderers
4.4
(677 ratings)
Genre: action, comedy, drama
A tale about the former leader of a special organization that served under royalty, now leaving his past life behind and unintentionally getting involved with the martial world.
First Impressions
"Faraway Wanderers" is a wuxia novel that certainly took me on a journey. With elements of action, comedy, drama, and romance (shounen ai), it's a blend of genres that aims to offer something for everyone. Having finally finished it, I have a few thoughts to share. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: Zhou Zishu, a former leader of an imperial intelligence network, seeks to retire and wander the Jianghu only to stumble upon a conspiracy. The introduction of Wen Kexing, a flirtatious and mysterious martial artist, immediately piqued my interest. The story felt like it was setting up for a ...
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7
#7 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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8
#8 PICK
Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei
4.4
(516 ratings)
Genre: action, martial arts, mystery
Magic. It is a product of neither legends nor fairy tales, but instead has become a technology of reality since a time unknown to people.
First Impressions
Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei is a series that has definitely left an impression on me. It’s a blend of sci-fi, magic, and school life that creates a unique world, but it’s not without its quirks. Initially, I was drawn in by the concept of a world where magic is intertwined with technology. The idea of a magic academy with a protagonist who seems like an underdog but is secretly powerful is a classic setup, and I was eager to see how Mahouka would execute it....
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9
#9 PICK
The Captivating Crown Prince
4.5
(511 ratings)
Genre: drama, gender bender, harem
After getting betrayed and killed by the only person she’d loved, Miss Shang wakes up in the body of the cowardly crown prince Shang Wuxin, who, due to her own circumstances, was actually a girl cross-dressing as a boy. After inheriting the crown prince’s memories, Shang Wuxin has three things o...
First Impressions
"The Captivating Crown Prince" promised a thrilling blend of gender-bending intrigue, historical drama, and reverse harem romance. After diving in, I found a story with definite strengths, although not without a few potential pitfalls. The premise immediately grabbed my attention: a cold, ruthless modern woman reincarnated as a cross-dressing crown prince. The initial chapters set the stage well, introducing a protagonist who's far from the typical damsel in distress. I was intrigued by the power dynamics and the hints of a deeper plot brewing beneath the surface....
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10
#10 PICK
The Grandmaster Strategist
4.6
(472 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, martial arts
This is an alternate history. Decades after the fall of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, the world is still in chaos, although there is hope for reunification.
First Impressions
"The Grandmaster Strategist" is a web novel that really surprised me. Going in, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I quickly found myself drawn into its intricate world of political maneuvering and strategic brilliance. It's definitely not your typical power fantasy, and that's precisely what makes it stand out. Initially, I was a bit overwhelmed. The story dives right into a complex setting reminiscent of ancient China, and there's a lot of information thrown at you early on. I can see why some readers might find the beginning slow or even boring; it requires patience and a willingness to abso...
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11
#11 PICK
Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival (LN)
4.5
(414 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
A girl Alicia lived as an orphan in a world of sword and magic Ciel. One day, she learned that she was an “otome game’s heroine”.
First Impressions
"Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival" certainly grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise. We're thrown into a world that initially feels like a typical otome game setting, but quickly veers off the beaten path. Alicia, our heroine, isn't interested in romance; her primary focus is survival. I was immediately drawn in by the promise of a protagonist who prioritizes strength and skill over capturing the hearts of potential love interests. What I appreciated most was the subversion of otome game tropes. Instead of the usual focus on romance, we get a hardcore leveling-up story. Alic...
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12
#12 PICK
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
13
#13 PICK
The Times Spent in Pretense
4.5
(382 ratings)
Genre: comedy, drama, historical
The Hua family, through generations, values loyalty and righteousness. Regardless of gender, everyone prioritizes defending their home and country.
First Impressions
"The Times Spent in Pretense" is a historical romance that I found utterly charming. It’s a story that plays with familiar tropes in refreshing ways, and I quickly became invested in the characters and their… well, pretenses. While it might not be a groundbreaking epic, its lightheartedness and focus on familial bonds make it a delightful read. I was immediately drawn in by the premise. Hua Liuli, a general's daughter, dreams of being a sickly beauty, and the Crown Prince is a seemingly lazy and arrogant figure. These initial characterizations are ripe for comedic misunderstandings and surpris...
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14
#14 PICK
Accidentally Having a Baby with the Enemy Prince
4.4
(391 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, historical
The Jiang and the Sui Empires are sworn enemies. Both sides have been fighting back and forth for decades, each trying to press the other to death by the Yellow River.
First Impressions
"Accidentally Having a Baby with the Enemy Prince" is quite the ride, a blend of political intrigue, martial arts, and fluffy romance that kept me hooked despite a few bumps along the way. This isn't your typical damsel-in-distress story; both princes are intelligent and capable, making their interactions all the more compelling. The title alone grabbed my attention, promising a unique twist on the enemies-to-lovers trope. I dove in expecting a straightforward romance, but I quickly discovered a rich world of ancient China, complete with warring factions and complex characters. Be warned, thou...
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Conclusion

Power scaling varies wildly between entries. Some stay grounded in human-level combat while others escalate to cosmic battles. I've noted the general scale in individual descriptions where relevant. If you prefer one style over the other, use the tags to filter accordingly.

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

T*ash of the Count’s Family

First Impressions

The Rebirth of the Malicious Empress of Military Lineage

First Impressions

Chronicles of Primordial Wars

First Impressions

Thousand Autumns

First Impressions

Sha Po Lang

First Impressions

Faraway Wanderers

First Impressions

Peerless

First Impressions

Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei

First Impressions

The Captivating Crown Prince

First Impressions

The Grandmaster Strategist

First Impressions

Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival (LN)

First Impressions

Return of Mount Hua Sect

First Impressions