Web novels capture changes in reading habits of Chinese women

The research also found that web novels on online female fiction platforms have become more diversified in terms of genres, themes and writing styles, while the general quality has improved over the last twenty years.

Apart from romance, web novels on the female platforms cover genres including mystery, sci-fi, fantasy, history, and time travel.

As Chinese women's gender awareness improves, independent strong versatile female roles are increasingly welcomed by readers.

The top 1 novel on the list Wen Danzhu is about a young woman named Chen Danzhu in fictional ancient times working hard for her family and the country. It is a novel that represents women's prominent roles in historical progress.

The top 4 Biao Xia Jie tells a light story of a group of damsels of noble birth, a story combining the elements of suspense and historical fiction.

The study found that sweet romantic comedies are increasingly popular among readers. Besides, more web novels on the online female platforms contain realistic elements that reflect writers' thinking about the reality concerning the society and personal growth.