Best Novel-Based Chinese Dramas List

Best Novel-Based Chinese Dramas List

As a passionate connoisseur of Asian dramas, I must say that these captivating tales have truly enriched my life! From the heartwarming Go Go Squid! to the intriguing Word of Honor, each drama offers a unique blend of love, action, and adventure.


Many well-known Chinese dramas have been based on novels, captivating audiences not just in China but globally. These stories, often rooted in either current or historical settings, remain true to their literary origins whether from traditional novels or online series.

This collection delves into popular TV series that have been adapted from acclaimed novels by notable authors. Ranging from Go Go Squid to Word of Honor, these captivating shows have made a significant impact.

Love Like the Galaxy 1 & 2 (2022)

Love Like the Galaxy is based on Guan Xin Ze Luan’s novel Xing Han Can Lan, Xing Shen Zhi Zai and was released in two parts in July 2022. The main character, Ling Buyi (portrayed by Leo Wu), is a formidable military general who carries the weight of his past. During a mission, he encounters Cheng Shao Shang (Zhao Lusi), a young girl who was left behind by her parents.

Despite lacking formal education and growing up without a nurturing family environment, Cheng Shao Shang captivates Buyi due to her quick-wittedness and tenacity. In an unexpected turn of events, they become engaged. The question now is whether they can surmount their struggles and find solace in each other’s company.

Viewers can watch both the seasons of Love Like the Galaxy on iQIYI and WeTV.

Nirvana in Fire (2015)

In a reinterpretation of Hai Yan’s Lang Ya Bang, this political Chinese series unfolds against the backdrop of sixth-century China. The ruler of Great Liang, the Emperor himself, issues an unjust decree for the execution of his brother-in-law, Marshal Lin Xie, along with the Lin family, their 70,000 soldiers, and Crown Prince Qi. Remarkably, Lin Xie’s son, Lin Shu, manages to evade this mass execution. To keep himself hidden, Lin Shu undergoes a clandestine surgical procedure.

Nevertheless, this transformation alters Lin Shu’s appearance significantly and leaves him feeling so weak that he contemplates abandoning martial arts. Remarkably, Lin Shu later adopts a new identity, Mei Chang Su. He became a champion of martial arts and founded the Jiangzuo Alliance. Several years passed, and Mei Chang Su eventually returned to the capital. In secret, he chose to aid Prince Jing, the underdog son of the Emperor, in his bid for the throne.

Nirvana in Fire is available to stream on Prime Video and Viki.

Legend of Fuyao (2018)

This television show is based on Tian Xia Gui Yuan’s novel titled Empress Fuyao. The Xuan Yuan Sect took in Fuyao (Yang Mi) as a child and she grew up as a slave. Throughout her life, she faced numerous hardships. However, when tragedy struck again, she began a quest to break free from the unfortunate circumstances that had plagued her existence.

Whilst seeking a means to transform her sorrowful existence, she encounters the Crown Prince of Tianquan, named Zhang Sun Wu Ji, also known as Etan Juan. Following their romantic connection, Wu Ji assists her in discovering her genuine self.

Legend of Fu Yao is available to stream on iQIYI, Viki, and Prime Video.

Go Go Squid! (2019)

Based on Mo Bao Fei Bao’s novel “Stewed Squid with Honey,” the drama unfolds around the story of Tong Nian (Yang Zi), a brilliant computer science prodigy who instantaneously falls for Han Shang Yan (Li Xian). Known as an e-sports legend, Shang Yan stepped away from the limelight due to certain misconceptions. Meanwhile, Tong Nian has achieved considerable fame and has amassed numerous followers.

Initially, she couldn’t capture his focus, despite her best attempts. However, with shifting circumstances, Shang Yan started viewing her differently. Over time, she played a crucial role in helping him heal from his past wounds.

The drama is available to stream on Netflix, Viki, and WeTV.

Word of Honor (2021)

The well-known Chinese BL drama based on Priest’s novel, Faraway Wanderers, unfolds. Once Zhou Zhishu (played by Zhang Zhehan) and Wen Kexin (portrayed by Gong Jun) join forces in the realm of martial arts, their lives undergo a remarkable change.

As time ticks away for me, I find myself growing ever closer to Zhishu. His situation is clear, and my heart yearns to assist him in any way possible. We embark on an exciting journey, unraveling mysteries and conspiracies side by side, much like two intrepid explorers in a grand adventure game.

Word of Honor is available for streaming on Netflix.

Eternal Love (2017)

This work is a transformation of Tang Qi Gong Zi’s online novel titled “Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms.” It is a Xianxia drama that follows the narrative of Bai Qian, portrayed by Yang Mi, who is a nine-tailed fox spirit. In her mortal life, she seeks to imprison a demon.

In contrast to her old life, Bai Qian is shy now. Yet, she encounters Crown Prince Ye Hua, reminiscent of her previous lover, Mo Yuan, both played by Mark Chao. Over time, they develop a romantic bond.

Viewers can stream Eternal Love on Netflix and Viki.

The Princess Royal (2024)

As a devoted fan, I’d like to share my enthusiasm for this captivating period romance Chinese drama. Reminiscent of Mo Shu Bai’s The Grand Princess, it stars the talented Zhang Linghe and Zhao Jinmai in the lead roles. This enthralling narrative traces the lives of Li Rong (portrayed by Zhao Jinmai) and Pei Wen Xuan (Zhang Linghe), who were married at a tender age. Initially, they cherished their bond, but as time unfolded, their relationship soured, with Li Rong’s heart eventually wandering elsewhere.

Meanwhile, Wen Xuan is fully committed to serving his country, but this dedication is exploited by conspirators who sow distrust between them, culminating in their tragic deaths. However, an extraordinary event transports them back in time to the year of their wedding. Despite their initial efforts to prevent their marriage and the escalation of events, they eventually find themselves drawn to each other.

The Princess Royal is available to stream on Youku, Netflix and Viki.

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2024-08-27 18:11