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I’m Not Good At Political Scheming!
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Web Novel (CN)
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Rating(4.4 / 5.0, 46 votes)
5    70% (32 votes)
4    15% (7 votes)
3    7% (3 votes)
2    4% (2 votes)
1    4% (2 votes)
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Support Book (#ad)
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Status in Country of Origin. One entry per line
78 Chapters + 3 Extras
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Completely Translated
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English Publisher
One entry per line
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Release Frequency
Every 37.6 Day(s)
Activity Stats
[Graph]
Weekly Rank: #1096
Monthly Rank: #523
All Time Rank: #12720
Reading List
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On 561 Reading Lists
Monthly Rank: #22662
All Time Rank: #13098

Description

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Lu Ping, the Ninth Prince, is known for being a handsome but talentless “pretty boy” with little presence in the imperial court. On the other hand, Yan Ren, the dashing heir to a powerful noble family, is admired for his charisma and popularity. Their reputation is worlds apart.

When they first met, Yan Ren teased Lu Ping by playing with his jade token. Gritting his teeth, Lu Ping thought, “This Young Master Yan is such a complete scoundrel! I should avoid him at all costs. ”

Yet, no matter how much he tried, Lu Ping couldn’t escape him. In the warm drapery of the Huafen Tower, under the soft glow of moonlight, Yan Ren clenched Lu Ping’s wrist tightly enough to leave red marks and sneered, “Why are you crying? Weren’t you madly in love with me? ”

But fate has other plans. Despite trying to keep his distance, three years later, Lu Ping unexpectedly finds the imperial throne falling into his lap. Everyone says it’s pure luck that he got to sit on the dragon throne.

Soon after his ascension, an urgent report came from the border—the formidable General Yan Ren, the Marquis of the North, is returning to the capital to fulfill his duties.

The old ministers immediately exclaimed, “Your Majesty! Yan Ren is a cunning man with hidden ambitions! His return to the court surely means he’s plotting to seize power with his army. You must act decisively, Your Majesty! ”

Lu Ping feels like crying, “I’m not good at political scheming! ”

Then he hesitated and said, “How about… I seduce him with my beauty? ”

Associated Names
One entry per line
朕不会搞权谋啊
Related Series
N/A
Recommendations
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Recommendation Lists
  1. shou emperors / bottom emperors
  2. Recommended Danmei and Baihe
  3. TBR HISTORICAL BL
  4. Good to read
  5. Politics go crazy

Latest Release

Date Group Release
06/17/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c81
06/17/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c80
06/17/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c79
05/24/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c78
05/24/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c77
05/15/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c76
05/15/25 Chrysanthemum Garden c75
10/03/24 Chrysanthemum Garden c1
Write a Review
12 Reviews sorted by


Baoxiubao
New Baoxiubao rated it
July 21, 2025
Status: Completed
Hello reviewer below, if you would like to criticise the novel please do so in a justified manner so that future readers will understand the shortcomings of the novel better rather than crudely saying it is utterly tr*sh. You have the ability to do so for other novels.

As the novel is not set to be more than 100 chapters more, it is understandable that the characterisation is somewhat oversimplified and glossed over, which could be seen rather clearly for the side CP. Even then, I think the author put some... more>> justice in bringing the characters to life.

I feel the most relatable to MC alot in this novel though it is a personal bias as I understand the feelings and the state he is going through

Spoiler

"This kind of candleholder... It was meant to be placed inside a warm chamberz lighting up a quiet room. It has no lanten cover, no protective paper — so delicate, so fragile, utterly defenseless. The place it belongs is indoors!" I resonate with this paragraph the most. It really highlights how much MC is aware of his limited abilities and character that does not allow him to be the emperor everyone expects him to be. Being put in a position where your character and abilities does not align with the job description is a mentally draining and arduous task.

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I agree with some readers whom may find that the MC's initial build up
Spoiler

that he is a talented person in a lazy and dumb facade

[collapse]
falls short to his display as the emperor. However, I attributed this to the lack of exposure he had with court affairs entirely and never being involved with any sort of ministries. I think it is because of this that I can feel the MCs struggle with the help of the translator meticulously using descriptors that highlights that feeling. Oh and if you are not a fan of tsundere MCs then this is not for you.

I wish that the novel could explore abit deeper into Lu Jing as a person abit more as he fell abit flat to me especially when he is MC's closest familial relationship
Spoiler

though granted he is a cannon fodder but his importance to the MC's heart should at least warrant some more life to him

[collapse]

I am abit surprised that the ML in this novel was actually a decent person who takes accountability of his actions as he is depicted as the stereotypical arrogant noble that plays around. Though abit of a cliché character, I have grown fond of his character and how he developed into adulthood.

I would love to delve in further for each character but I tried my best highlight what stuck on to me.

I'd recommend to read this novel if you want a rather light-hearted story as political discussions and schemes are easy to follow with a decent romantic progression. <<less
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Onis
New Onis rated it
July 19, 2025
Status: c48
This is so brain-dead I can't manage to push through it any more. Even intricate and beautiful translation style can't save it, it only highlights the crudeness and idiocity of the plot details. Honestly, when authors rip off some bg novels by just changing ML's gender and present it as a bl, can't they at least find some good bg? What it this nonsence?
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Alyltia
Alyltia rated it
June 6, 2025
Status: c71
Lu Ping and Yan Ren.

POV:

There was enough shift of POV at the beginning, but maintaining it in the later part only to Lu Ping gives us the tendency to indulge in Lu Ping's thoughts and analysis.

... more>> The overall lack of Yan Ren's POV gives us angst — and indeed, it was necessary. Again, this is not a spoiler; it's 1v1 and has a happy ending. But that is a shame. Though I can't bring myself to read the remaining chapters, so I have no right to say.

This only has 82 chapters, and yet I felt like I read longer than usual.

Prose and Wording:

The translation is superb. It was not my usual cup of tea, and it did need a lot more brain than I have when reading, but the lines and thoughts are amazing. The poems and debates went above my head. Most of the time, I continued even if I didn’t comprehend the exchange — so I don’t know if that’s a good thing.

Characters:

There is enough character growth for our main characters. I also remember quite a few of the background characters, but I can say that this is more focused on the two, and considering the length, that makes utter sense. Sadly, though, I’m not a fan of the second couple.

Romance:

This is a slow burn. I thought this was a shounen ai, and to be fair, it is. It also doesn’t feel forced. It captured what a natural attraction could seem like. The thing is, it’s to be noted that Lu Ping and Yan Ren don’t seem to be physically attracted to each other at first or even beyond. It was more of an afterthought. I also like that although Yan Ren might have lusted for Lu Ping, it was not exploited. It was amazing that the author stayed true to their intention.

Drama:

I really did think of skipping the chapters when Lu Ping was separated from Yan Ren — but oh boy. That was a great, and among the greatest, character development and “filler” I’ve seen between the three years later... oops, hope that’s not a spoiler.

Angst:

What can I say? I did cry — not because of what is said or not said, not because of what is shown or not — but rather, for me, Yan Ren does feel a little distant and detached near the end. Which is true to the change he underwent. But to those who will read: I don’t think it was as light as you would expect, so tread carefully.

Recommendation:

I would recommend this to those who want a complete mix of angst, drama, cuteness, sweetness, separation, scheming, politics, intellect, and growth.

I totally wouldn’t recommend this to those who just want a light read. If you want to be poked back from the numbness of life and the daily routine of your everyday, this is a great read. But only if — only — you are a great fan of the historical genre. Although it was not heavy on the historical, it was reliant.

Takes:

Lu Ping’s love was admirable. It is relatable for me, who has had a one-sided love.

It was he who endures, who loves, and who conquers their inner fears that wins.

I admire Lu Ping’s strength — at that point, I would have given up and walked away to preserve myself. He stepped further and took the first step. Not minding whether he was winning or losing, but rather aspiring for love and Yan Ren — those lines...

To be loved and to love like that is commendable.

Best wishes to those who will start this.

Hello to my fellow companions who have,

Salute to those who finished it. <<less
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jiantings
jiantings rated it
May 26, 2025
Status: c78
a very light read and very very cute! The main cp are so good for each other!! Would recommend if you’re intimidated by heavy politics (though it’s definitely heavier on emotions) and want to try something light instead lu ping is definitely one of my favourite characters ever haha and the novel itself is easily top 3 for me

i’m not good at selling things for others to read but it’s such a cute novel and I love how yan ren and lu ping interact and if you want a teasing... more>> gong and an easily flustered shou they’re perfect 🥹 <<less
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haimiehoubi
haimiehoubi rated it
May 27, 2025
Status: c78
I absolutely loved this novel from beginning to end. It's so beautifully narrated it's difficult to stop reading

... more>>
Spoiler

Emperor Lu Ping was an absolute bystander and he was happy to be so, I think it's the first time I see a protagonist not wanting any achievements, any rewards, any recognition for himself, yet he was forced to become the ruler of a nation... and he did it the best he could! I adore Lu Ping's character development through the entire novel, from being an ignored and humiliated prince to a sensible emperor who would do anything for the wellbeing of the nation and the wellbeing of his beloved ones too. As well, general Yan Ren had a gret development where you could see all his flaws and vulnerability due to his early immature and reckless self, he endured so much til building a shield to protect himself but failing to do so in front of the love of his life. Both endured so much pain being apart and they both got to learn to love each other's new forms again, healing together as a result. I can't put into word how much I enjoyed their love journey and the craze their love cause in the hall of government. Long live the emperor!

[collapse]
<<less
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Erica Nuitari
Erica Nuitari rated it
June 13, 2025
Status: Completed
This was such an unexpected find! When I started the novel, the rating was a bit low so I readied myself for mediocrity... but I'm happy to announce, people... this novel is a hidden gem! It was an incredibly cute and fun story. Seriously, every single chapter left a smile on my face.

I think the only downside was the ending being a bit rushed and how short it was. I would love to read about these two for at least 100 chapters more :'D

I rated it 5 stars to give... more>> it a little boost—so, don't expect an earth-shattering literary miracle—but I'd say it's a solid 4.3 that will leave your heart warmed and face smiling. <<less
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JaiSamuel
JaiSamuel rated it
June 2, 2025
Status: Completed
A somewhat fantastical representation of a romance between an emperor and his general, except that it also has strong female characters who aren't involved in harem scheming, an implied lesbian romance, and a good dose of angst that made me properly cry three or four times (and nearly burst out in tears on public transport).

It has its own charm in the absoluteness of its manouvers, and the lack of hesitancy readers can have towards the plot leaves a lot of freedom in expressing the sweetness between Lu Ping and Yan... more>> Ren. It casts a good balance between romance, violence and loss without them overturning each other too quickly.

For me it was perfect even with its imperfections, and it was even comforting that the author mentioned they couldn't scheme very well either, because I doubt I would be able to survive in such an environment without losing my cool like Lu Ping.

Overall, the tone of the blurb only captures parts of the novel, so brace yourself for some harsher moments earlier on, before it gets better. <<less
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WinterInUtopia
WinterInUtopia rated it
July 7, 2025
Status: Completed
This is a gem!😍 An unexpected find. The chemistry between the MC and ML is amazing, from the initial misunderstandings to their confession. Lu Ping, our MC, is such a pure soul. He simply wants to be free, enjoy life, and support the crown prince. I know there will be a reason why Lu Ping must ascend the throne, but it was still so painful and heartbreaking to read what happened to Lu Jing.😭 They shared a genuine bond.

Following that, our ML, Yan Ren, also lost both of his parents.... more>> Pain, just pain. Until Yan Ren finally returned to the palace. But we made it through the heartbreak. Yan Ren and Lu Ping are truly a match made in heaven. A fantastic read! <<less
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earlgreyt
earlgreyt rated it
June 29, 2025
Status: Completed
Lovely novel, beautifully written and translated. Chrysanthemum Garden translation is complete, even though not all of the chapters are linked here on NU.

The author excelled at portraying ambiguity or uncertainty, which made the story carry a delicious line of tension throughout. The MC's experience is especially vivid as a despised or forgotten prince of the imperial family and the reader accompanies him on the same journey, experiencing the moments of doubt, confusion, hesitation, cowardliness, courage, and so on...

I particularly loved the MC's relationship with his eldest brother and how that... more>> broke common portrayals. And the MC's naivete and stumbles during his first year as emperor.

Spoiler

TBH, that part was particularly frustrating because it was so obvious that he was being manipulated by the ministers, but it was also understandable that he tried to do the best he could with whatever paltry experience he had.

Rarely are new emperors written with as believable struggles as this one -- having to learn step by step how to take control of the imperial power instead of being battered left and right by the slough of opinions in the court.

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MC's growth is lovely and the relationship between him and the ML is very cute. MC had to really own up to things and take many steps forward instead of just relying on the ML to conquer everything. <<less
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sbob
sbob rated it
July 18, 2025
Status: Completed
Wish I could bump it up to 4 but it really wasn’t for me.

It’s coherent. There is decent conflict, arguably engaging emotional points when he was faced with the burden of the throne, but...

I get that MC is ‘not good at political scheming’ but then why ... more>>
Spoiler

bother with the ‘pretending to be dumb’, secretly a scholar who was manipulating his scores, build up in the beginning? It made me excited for nothing, because after he ascended the throne it felt like he was just relying on ML to get through everything! You can be not good at it, you can aspire to be a salted fish, but when you make the decision to take on the responsibility but don’t be so useless?

[collapse]

I would say MC is a maiden at heart. It felt like it was a shoujou manga plot just with the historical emperor setting just so that tropes of war, fight for ascension can be used. Their characterisation is as if two modern people transmigrated but didn’t know they did. It could have been a ‘CEO’ role instead of an emperor and it might be more congruent.

To be fair, I like my leads to be strong, so MC really isn’t to my taste, because he’s quite the opposite of it. He really is like the stereotypical ‘oh my god did he just kiss me? -damedayo! runs away blushing heehee-s’. Nope, not for me.

Side CP is also... eh. There generally seems to be a lack of intelligence in all characters, even those that are meant to be smart.

I get that it’s not meant to be a complicated 100 part series palace intrigue novel, but the romantic aspect of it, the familial part of it (some build up with the brother that was great but got killed in the cradle) just didn’t hit the mark for me. <<less
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Byul.star
Byul.star rated it
July 11, 2025
Status: Completed
5 amazing stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This novel is a gem. ITS AMAZING.

It's such an exciting novel. The plot is really good. I couldn't put this novel down. I finished it in 1, 5 days. And the translation is amazing!!! Thank you translator for your amazing work.

This novel really moved me, especially the MC and ML. They are both well written characters. What they both had to endure. Especially the MC. ... more>>
Spoiler

Not only was he abandoned by the emperor when he was young, the emperor even neglected and ignored him when he did come back to live in the palace. And everyone was looking down on him, even the eunuchs and the maids. And the heartbreak when Lu Jing died. It was so heartbreaking to read how our MC held the body of his deceased brother. And the scheming ministers forcing him to become emperor. They even drove a wedge between the MC and the ML. Sowing doubt, telling MC that ML will rebel. Our MC really endured a lot. But he grows a lot too. Even though he didn't want to become emperor. He always does his best and is so hard working. Really an MC with lots of growth.

[collapse]

And the ML

Spoiler

I fell in love with him immediately. He has a reputation for being a genius and a playboy. He is playful and mischievous. And he loves teasing our MC. But when he went to war and went through lots of hardships and even losing his loved ones, he became distrustful and cold. It's heartbreaking to read what he went through and why he thought everyone in the capital wanted him dead.

[collapse]

The relationship between our MC and ML is so precious. It's a little bit of a slow burn. It takes time for them to be honest with each other and become a couple. But how the author works up towards their romance is really exciting. It keeps you guessing and gasping.

Spoiler

What stuck to me was the coup. The death of Lu Jing the crown prince. That was so heartbreaking to read. And how our MC had a mental breakdown afterwards and kept screaming to return his brother to him. That part made me really sad. I knew this would happen, but still reading how the crown prince died was quite sad.

[collapse]

And the extra's wow... How could the author leave us hanging with those alternate timelines and what ifs chapters. They are all one chapter long, and I NEED MORE!

Spoiler

Especially the first extra: what if Yan Ren did rebel. The open ending. Oh how I wish to read more about this alternate timeline.

[collapse]

Such a brilliant novel. Really a must read. 100% recommend. <<less
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angeluspiper
angeluspiper
July 9, 2025
Status: c81
I binge read this book. The romance was very sweet and then it was heart breaking. I didn't see it coming at all. And then it ended in sweetness. I'm going to miss these 2 characters. I wish the author wrote more books, they are very good at what they do.
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