National Critics Circle Award Winners

Moe, a recent graduate from a prestigious university, is on the hunt for a job when fate takes an unexpected turn. After acing a crucial interview, he finds himself in a life-altering accident that transmigrated him into a Fantasy world. After transmigration, instead of gaining extraordinary powers, he awakens in the body of Arthur Jr., an incompetent king ruling over the small kingdom of Keldoria. In a realm where magic is commonplace, Arthur Jr. is unable to wield any magical abilities, leaving him at a significant disadvantage. However, armed with the authority of a king and the knowledge of modern society he will transform the small kingdom of Keldoria into a advance nation where technology and magic coexist. What is the key factor in building a great nation? --Its money. To obtain more gold, Moe, currently King Arthur need to create a new tax-system that benefit all the citizen while also maintain good relationship with noble even if the new tax system make them pay more tax. How will Arthur implement the rule and tax? When will he put his business and engineering degrees, which he studied back on Earth, to use? Find Out :) -----Disclaimer------- This is a slow-progression kingdom building story. The pacing may be a bit slow to reader but I will make sure that every chapters are amazing. Thus readers who like fast pace and very OP MC from start might dislike this novel. Reader can expect more macro economics than micro economics since this is building a kingdom/country instead of running a business. Also, MC will not have OP skill or ability but will balance it by making use of his knowledge and authority as a king. It is my first time ever to write a novel so to be honest, I use AI(GPT and Blackbox.io) to enhanced/rewrite my writing. However the idea, world building, concept and everything else is written by me and me alone. So reader who enjoy 100% Human work I am sorry to disappoint you, however I don't use AI by giving it idea prompt and copy pasting the result but I write on my own then I use AI to enhance my writing style and making it more enjoyable to read. Thus the writing may involved AI but it is 100% human idea and concept. Hope you enjoy!!!!

After the judgment, the ire of God was revealed with the words: "Be cast unto eternal damnation!" And so it was that humans and jinns alike found themselves scattered across the Seven Circles of Hell, left to burn and suffer for eternity. Until after an untold number of eternities, an angelic voice called out, announcing God's decree: "One soul shall earn the chance to return to grace." Humans and jinns found a shimmering screen appear before their eyes, tallying their sins and something called 'Fragments of Divinity'. "Cleanse away your sins," said the voice. "Do what must be done!" Now, a human known as Wretched Nameless One—the only human found in the Seventh Circle—sets out on a journey to claim his spot in heaven. Will he traverse through the Seven Circles of Hell and enter Heaven or die trying?

Jiang Ning was the true heiress of the Huo Family, lost and living outside. After being brought back by her family, her birth parents didn't like her, her cold-faced brother despised her, and her twin brothers would tell her to get lost from the home at the drop of a hat. Waking up alone in the hospital, she was diagnosed by the doctor with a terminal illness, yet her own family was busy throwing a party for the fake heiress. Jiang Ning was furious! She kicked these so-called family members one by one, sending them all flying! If they didn't accept her, she didn't care for them either! ...... Jiang Ning participated in a rural countryside live stream variety show. Her haters caught wind and came to greet Jiang Ning's entire family in the barrage of messages. But what they found was: Day one: Shock! Jiang Ning catches a thief on the street! A golden retriever runs over to help her. Day two: Jiang Ning snatches a child back from human traffickers with her bare hands! A bird publicly defecates on the traffickers' heads! Day three: Jiang Ning fights a criminal in a life-and-death struggle! A goose mocks them at the scene. Thief: "I had already finished stealing, and she still caught me. It's absurd." Murderer on the run for sixteen years: "You might not believe it, but I just came to buy a bottle of water, and she came up to me with a big right hook." A nice countryside live stream somehow turned into a legal synergy. The online audience crazily tagged the official police accounts: "Let's be honest, isn't she an undercover agent you dispatched?" "Jiang Ning's side job is entering the entertainment industry, but her main role is catching criminals, right?" A certain big shot attached a wedding photo: "Wife, mine."

In her past life, Si Huang was controlled and manipulated by her family. She was hailed as the best leading actor of her generation, yet she met a tragic end. Unexpected circumstances granted her a rebirth. She could start all over again—with the bonus of a peculiar inheritance. ‘This is my chance!’ Si Huang thought, stroking her chin. ‘This time, I will have my revenge. An eye for an eye.’ * She reclaimed her throne in the entertainment industry, becoming the number one prince charming in the eyes of women by day, and she wielded a dark power—being a vicious mastermind behind the scenes by night. One word and the stock market was under her control. She was the mysterious angel of fortune among businessmen. One fist was enough to bring her enemies to their knees. She was a tiny conqueror among an army of men. Mm… And she was the object of a certain someone’s affection. However, one day, the world rose into an uproar—this prince charming was a woman! * Amidst the swarm of lascivious men, a certain man smirked. ‘I’ve been guarding my wife for a very long time. Who would dare steal her?’ “Sir, Mr. Li has invited Young Master Si to dinner.” “Shut down his family’s hotel.” “Sir, Young Master Si had a fight with the Wang Family's heir.” “Send a message to the surgeon. Ensure that he gives the patient the ‘special treatment'.” “Huh? But Young Master Si is alright.” “I was referring to the Wang Family’s son.” “...” * Many years later, their little bundle of joy pointed at the television screen, which was showcasing The Nation’s Most Desirable Men and Women. The little one stared at the man beside him, looking very confused. “What’s wrong, little one?” the man asked, radiant with fatherly gentleness. The little one pointed at the television hesitantly, going back and forth multiple times before finally asking, “Are you my daddy or mommy?” The man’s face darkened instantly. “I’m your father, of course!” “But they say that my daddy is the real prince charming, and prince charming married you!” The little one explained with a serious look on his face. The man was speechless.

Qing Xia struggled in the apocalypse, living a life worse than death. He had always envied those who died early, spared from experiencing this wretched existence after the world's end: black, polluted air; barren, cracked lands; toxic, contaminated water; and humans who no longer looked human at all. He truly wanted to escape this life, but he couldn't—not after his family sacrificed their lives so he could survive. So, he fought. He struggled. He bled, sweated, and cried until he became one of the last survivors on this desolate earth. However, during one of his team's routine purification missions, Qing Xia died... He thought that was the end, but he didn't expect to be reborn—in the body of an idol, no less! And this idol was on the verge of being kicked out of the entertainment industry. "Fine, whatever. I'll retire and become an otaku. I'll eat, drink, and sleep in peace…" In this peaceful world, he wanted to live his new life as Sian to the fullest, and in the best way possible. But... Could someone please tell me... Why am I in a forest? Why do I have to participate in this stupid variety show? What the hell is this...? Secret agent? Hitmen? Terrorists and underworld figures? Smugglers?... Damn it, damn it, leave me alone! I just want to live a lazy otaku life. Go do your business far away from me. Sian tried to live quietly, but life rarely goes as planned…And the winds do not blow as the ships wish. He found himself entangled in situations he could never escape. ---------------------------- Someone: "Darling, help me deal with these people." Sian: "Stay away from me. I have nothing to do with you or them." Someone, with fake tears: "Darling, I’m hurt. Come kiss me here, and the pain will go away." Sian, holding a military knife: "Does it hurt there? How about I just cut it off for you?" Someone, stripping Sian’s clothes: "Darling, you look so beautiful when you’re angry. I can’t take it anymore." Sian: "Go to hell! Ah—ahh! Stop it—stop! That hurts! Quit biting me, you damn dog!"      ---------------------------------------     Dear readers, welcome to an exciting adventure! This is a captivating BL novel filled with +18 scenes that add a spark of joy and love and some sadness. If you’re open to exploring vibrant stories and vibrant connections, dive right in to accompany our Angel, the MC " Sian," on his journey in this new world.

A tale of young boy who encountered some events which is beyond his imagination and how caught up in it .And tale to enclose the real story of matter in light.Pls tell review of every single chapter

A man who died and reincarnated in the world of Cultivation with a system The system awards him points for every woman he Dual Cultiavtes with which he uses to buy things from the system shop to get stronger

Aurora Sage, known in the underworld by the code name Aura, is a legend and a five-star assassin who never misses her target. Cold, calculating, and mysterious, she's feared by all in the underworld. Her motto is simple: finish the job, get paid, and disappear. Logan Mason, is the national heartthrob, a top model and actor, with the face that melts the heart and a reputation for being untouchable. Arrogant yet irresistibly charming, Logan has the world at his feet and is used to being adored by everyone until he crosses paths with the wrong woman, the younger sister of a notorious mafia lord. Her bruised ego leads to Ethan's abduction, and the celebrity finds himself in an unexpected situation. When Aura is hired to eliminate the mafia lord, she doesn't expect to find the nation's golden boy, chained and battered in a basement. Against her better judgment, she rescues him because a girl in her she knows his fan. But the mission takes a sharp turn when Logan gets interested in her and gets entangled in her world. Aura tried her best to shake him off but it only made him more obsessed and clingy. But the shadows Aura works in are darker than what Logan can imagine. The enemies she made won't let her go unscathed and to protect the clingy Logan who won't leave her alone, she must confront her past and risk her future because falling for Logan might just be her deadliest mission yet.

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[Target in sight.] [Skill Critical Eye has been activated.] Being clumsy is quite common. But Luke Hunter’s clumsiness is on a different level. As the young man quite literally stumbles through life, he wonders if there’s something more he could be doing in the world. His dreams may come to be realized, as a freak accident causes Luke to wake up as Klum, in a completely different setting than his day-to-day life. His Dexterity, a skill that measures things such as flexibility and how well one holds themself, sits at the level it was in his past life; 1. And yet, he finds his skills to be suited for an extremely coordinated individual, especially after he meets the only other Sword Saint to have ever existed, an individual who is the strongest Swordsman among those both alive and passed on. It’s up to him to find his way in his new life, and strive to reach the path of the highest Swordsman — the Sword Saint. Will he be able to transform his 1 Dexterity into a 1000? Or will he be dragged into something much deeper — much darker? Credits to valeri_mirley on fiverr for the new cover! Updating 5-10 chapters a week, and now posting on RoyalRoad!

*Translate by DeepL* ============================= In the circle of good and evil, who is fair? In the void of ignorance and emotion, who speaks? Wars, betrayals, demons, gods, saints, heroes, witches, knights, and artifacts... in a world filled with cries and despair, three dead souls are reborn, bringing secret intentions and misguidance to this world. This is the story of the "Three Transmigrators" in a dangerous world. ============================= *Please give me your criticism and suggestions so that I can try to be better because this is my first novel. "Bad Writing*

Fourteen years of war nearly destroyed the world. Seven years of peace have barely held it together. The Seven Nation Army, forged from the ashes of World War III, stopped the bloodshed and vowed to protect the fragile balance. But peace has a price—and not everyone is willing to pay it. A shadow looms over the fractured world. The New World Order, a ruthless organization born of chaos, plots to tear apart the fragile ceasefire. Their vision? Burn the old world to the ground and rebuild it on their terms. At the forefront of this conflict, Bravo Squad stands as humanity's shield. Led by Captain Sohel Choudhury, callsign "Ghost," this elite unit faces a daunting task: unravel the NWO's plans before the world is plunged into World War IV. But trust is scarce, alliances are fickle, and the battlefield is no longer confined to nations—it’s everywhere. Victory isn’t guaranteed, but failure means the end of everything. — “If taking one life can save a thousand, we have to pull the trigger. If that one life is at the end of your barrel, and you won't be able to take the shot, leave this room right now. Because if you don't take the shot, your enemy will. And he won't hesitate. I assembled you here to win a war, not to turn all of you into cannon fodder.” Sohel took a deep breath and looked out over his squad. “Now, let me ask again, does anybody want to leave? Does anyone here think that he'd not be able to pull the trigger?” The room buzzed with one synchronized sound, “No, sir.”

A class and their teacher that get transported to another world full of magic and monsters, however, due to issues during the summoning process the group is exposed to different stimuli during the transportation which begins to effect their bodies and souls gifting them with skills, magic or items

Welcome Gamer] a blue screen appeared in front my face. What's this? [You have been chosen for the Gamer System] A young man suddenly finds his world flipped upside down as he finds himself reincarnated into the Naruto world in the Hidden Cloud Village with the Gamer System. Determined to survive, he dives into a world of Shinobi, Chakra and dungeons, all while trying to keep a low profile, regain memories of his past life and survive the ridiculous missions given to him by the System. Note: I'll be posting this on FanFiction, AO3 and hopefully Royalread as Shadow_Khaos

"In a world divided into five continental countries, with the middle continent serving as a volatile buffer zone, tyranny reigns supreme in the southern continents, each governed by a ruthless monarch. The most dominant force in this oppressive empire is the Church of the Sun, where the Pope holds the highest authority, serving as both religious leader and king. The Church's power is further bolstered by the 12 Paladins and 24 Reverend Fathers, backed by an army of clergy soldiers. The catalyst for this tale is the infamous 'Day of Unity,' an event that transpired roughly 50-55 years ago. On this day, nations from across the continents gathered for diplomatic relations, only to face a treacherous assault by the Pope and his ruthless army. In a shocking turn of events, the Pope's forces attacked all attending nations, seizing their lands, and compelling the surviving members of royal families and their people to pledge loyalty to the oppressive empire. Yet, the kingdom of Valkenburg, renowned for its advanced military and impenetrable defenses, remained untouched, as their wise king sent only an emissary to the event. In this world, the mystical power of 'wave energy' flows through the veins of every individual, with each person born possessing a unique affinity. With rigorous training, they can harness multiple affinities. But there's more to this universe than meets the eye. Rift Gates scattered throughout Earth lead to other realms. These gates are largely controlled by the imperial army, except for those hidden in free territories or the untamed eastern regions. The alternate realms include 'The Realm of Disorder,' 'The Shadowlands,' 'The Land of the Fel' (comprising seven colossal circles, each the size of a solar system), 'Wonderland' (a heavenly realm with light-type beings and five expansive circles, symbolized as 'the five circles of the rainbow'), and 'Verdana.' At the pinnacle of this intricate universe stands the Titanomachy, god-like beings who rule over these realms and influence magic on the mortal plane. They are the architects of this fantastical world, each possessing unrivaled power and purpose. Amidst this intricate tapestry of realms, magic, and political intrigue, 'The Knight of Roses' embarks on a journey filled with danger, discovery, and destiny. The Main Character, Arryn of Asa, a battle-worn mercenary with a shadowy past, will navigate the tumultuous landscapes, confront the horrors lurking in the cursed forests, and delve into the mysteries of the dark lord and his connection to the shadowy figure. As the story unfolds, the MC will find themselves at the center of a brewing conflict, where loyalties will be tested, alliances forged, and the fate of nations hanging in the balance." written by yodyo10/pendragondyo

Cesare Caruso, a renowned actor and a global superstar, appeared to have it all—fame, fortune, and an impeccable reputation. Yet, hidden beneath the surface was a secret he had guarded for years—he was an Omega. That carefully guarded secret came crashing down in one fateful night, during a glamorous masquerade ball aboard a luxurious cruise ship. Overwhelmed by an unexpected heat cycle, Cesare loses control of himself, devoured by his own desires and falling into the arms of a mysterious Alpha—a reckless moment that changed everything. [Zahir al-Tamid. That’s my name.] To his shock, the Alpha was Zahir—a proud prince from an oil-rich kingdom and an unwelcome figure from Cesare’s past. Worse, that night left Cesare unexpectedly pregnant! Before Cesare could make sense of it all, Zahir made a grand entrance at Cesare’s mansion by helicopter, uninvited, catching the attention of major media outlets around the world, demanding a settlement claiming that Cesare shall be responsible for ‘imprinting’ a royal family like him! “...Seriously, it’s not as if I have a ludicrous $2 billion just lying around, you know.” “Thus, marry me, Cesare.” Pregnancy, imprinting, and a royal marriage proposal—showered by a series of unwanted events, Cesare is desperate to find a way to cut ties with Zahir. But Zahir, stubborn and relentless, has no plans to let go. Can Cesare outrun the tempest, or will it pull him under? #BL #Omegaverse #Obsessive #Crybaby #One-sideLove #Prince #Superior Text copyright ⓒ 2024 by Kim Sol Da All right reserved. The Korean edition was originally written by 김솔다, Korea Translated and Published by We’ve Lab.

Cover Art by Neo and Yaoyueyi Volume 1 - Having been summoned to another world, Claude Evers is devastated to find out that he has no attack or magic proficiency. In a world of swords and magic, Claude endeavors to become his master's...chef? Despite this turn of events, he soon finds himself relying on his wit and strange abilities to stand by his master's side. With such fearsome enemies in this world, what solutions can Claude hope to cook up? Volume 2 - Defeating a terrifying monster endangering the kingdom, Claude's fame grows. With this in mind, his next goal is to...win over his master's heart? However, he soon learns that the nobility are not one to be trifled with. What can a lone chef do against the schemes of the powerful threatening his livelihood? Volume 3 - Welcome to the 'Certain Slice', where we are sure to serve you something that perfectly hits your tastes. This is a restaurant where you can sample our line of otherworldly food and drink, created by the one and only Demon Cleaver. Please wait here while we call a maid over to attend to your orders. The owner? I'm very sorry. He's not available at the moment. The reason? I'm afraid that he is now a wanted man, for defying kings and kidnapping princesses. Volume 4 - Stuck in another country, Claude and his companions happen upon abilities far different from what they had known before. With a country full of powerful warriors wielding such techniques, guided by a prophetic Oracle, new allies and enemies are around every corner. Will they find what they need to return home, or will 'destiny' swallow them up? Volume 5 - What happens when the person you thought you knew is completely different? Past and present collide as Claude makes his way back to Sistina to once again fight alongside his Master, encountering challenges that few Electi have ever faced. Destruction looms over Sistina as his enemies attack right where one is most vulnerable, the insecurities held in one’s heart. Volume 6 - With Sistina in the process of recoverying, Claude finds himself in a new role with many new challenges ahead. Though the dangers have passed, daily life is still far from boring as messy relationships and sudden adventures are at every corner. There is never a break in the life of an Electi! Volume 7 - War breaks out with the Empire of Purnesia. With decades of hatred possessing its people, Claude becomes embroiled in the tragedy of death and suffering. With his commitment to retain his humanity in jeopardy, how can a chef protect his friends on the battlefield? Volume 8 - Various tragedies have left Claude reeling. With his heart torn and his vow to not kill abandoned, he charges forward to the capital of Purnesia. With his heart trending towards darkness, who will remain by his side as he seeks revenge... and who will point their blade at him instead? Volume 9 - Learning of the existence of an entire army of demons, led by a familiar face, the very world is at stake. What will Claude discover upon setting foot in the realm of Gods, seeking the very limits of his Electi powers? Volume 10 - Peace has come at last, along with a new role for Claude. But his dreams foretell of another hidden danger on the horizon, one that would shatter everything he knows about the world. Volume 11 - Everything has ended, or has it? The secrets of the world are now revealed, and Claude must find everyone once again to face against a threat as old as the Gods. Volume 12 - Back together again, Claude and his crew make one final attempt against The Architect. Past and present collide as the fate of two worlds rest on the victor!

In the ambitious world of the National Kuala Baru Sporting Academy, Hamza, a gifted volleyball player with a troubled past, arrives with dreams of a fresh start. Awarded a partial scholarship for his raw talent, he hopes to thrive in a life defined by competition and camaraderie. But his path crosses with Elice Rosmayanti, a fierce second-year student whose guarded demeanor hides scars from her own painful past. As their lives intertwine on and off the court, friendship and tension simmer beneath the surface, challenging them to confront their fears and insecurities. In a world of high stakes and unspoken truths, Hamza and Elice must decide if they can trust each other enough to heal—or if the walls they’ve built will keep them apart forever. **** This story is ongoing.

Sequel to Lord of Mysteries

[Hiddenidentity, Femalelead, Loveaftermarriage] She originally planned to take her sister's place and marry a 60-year-old man, but accidentally married him, who was the richest man as he had also made a mistake. She thought they would soon divorce, but he chose to temporarily maintain the marriage. The public disliked her because of her ordinary background and believed that she was not worthy of him. However, her multiple identities were gradually exposed: academician at the National Research Institute, a brilliant doctor, the racing god, national representative of Go, and gold medalist in figure skating. And when the world found out that their marriage was only contracted for one year, she garnered numerous suitors. "Get out! We will never divorce! Never and ever!" he declared.

See for yourself how Chu Yi's journey against the son of destiny begins and how he takes control of the heroine. Note: There are 18+ scenes. Chu Yi was initially transmitted as a Holy Son of the Apocalypse sect, but he soon realized he was the villain. Fortunately, he had a critical hit system with him.

The Crown of the Kingdom is purchased in blood and bodies alone. Once the Kingdom of Ethereo was the fuel of the world, but times have changed and it has fallen from Grace, and only dust remains. Torn apart by the civil war, five kingdoms under the legends of rebellion rise and fight against each other. The victor of this war will be remembered as the lord of wits, gold, tactics and people. For that bloo and trust must spill for all. Which kingdom will rise to see themselves rule over the White Throne? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's that time of the decade when the business tycoons in America fight for yet who gets to perch at the peak. Being the winner of 'Thee Business Mogul Award' comes with a lot of premium benefits, more of everything like a black card, unmatched luxury, prestige and a tantalizing seat in the government: talk of such power. As it stands now, only the top 1% of such people stand a chance. One of such people is 'Michael Gild', the current owner of the prize and still has plans to gift it back to himself. 'Loreen Scott', the alluring Latin American whom has had her eyes on the prize for as long as she can remember. It's a wrong time for 'Anderson Clarke' to be entangled in rumors of a business-threatening scandalous relationship with powerful 'Simeon Walton'. And many others. It's still that time of the season. Let the best man win.

A SARA novel by Kasobazu Sumi (Kazu), all rights reserved. Peni Araka (AKA Sara), a high school girl from the Sakashi clan of the well-known Peni Family, found her place as an Intern Agent in the new SAIR Internship Program, the agency that was responsible for protecting people during dangerous supernatural incidents, investigating complex crimes and plots, and ensure the security and integrity of the nation. Carrying her gifted talents and the heart of saving people from danger, she overcame challenges and eventually made herself a place with the SAIR circle. While during her work term, she had came across people from different background with unique personalities and made many friends along the way. She also furthered her understanding of how the world functioned. However, as she dived deeper into the world, dangers and uncertainty were always awaiting her.

Medical student Zhou Yanqing, with an unremarkable academic background and limited prospects, finds himself at the very bottom of the medical pyramid. One day, he discovers a unique ability: by dedicating himself to perfecting a single skill, he can achieve extraordinary results that seem almost miraculous. Suturing Techniques: Vascular suturing, nerve suturing, finger replantation surgery... Incision Techniques: Soft tissue incision, cardiac incision, craniotomy... Debridement Techniques: Local debridement, lesion excision, tumor removal, cancer radical surgery... From a junior resident to an attending physician, associate chief physician, chief physician, specialist, professor, and scholar... Zhou Yanqing rises step by step from an ordinary medical master's student and junior resident to the pinnacle of the medical field. Ultimately, he becomes a National Doctor, a world-renowned scholar, and a pioneer of a new era in medicine.

Boxer Wang Hao was reborn in the 1990s. With a chance to start over, Wang Hao is determined to overcome the shortcomings of his previous life, enter the professional boxing world as soon as possible, and bravely pursue his dream of becoming the middleweight world champion. Middleweight Four Kings, Mexican Three Musketeers, Mayweather, Pacquiao, prepare yourselves—I am Wang Hao! A $100 million appearance fee? 3 million PPV buys? The king of P4P? As long as you work hard, anything is possible!

[Navigation] [Survival] [Disaster] [Building a Ship] [Life Evolution] [Single Female Lead] National Crossing, Black, as a player, is forced to join the national navigation survival game. Some lucky people have special boats. For example, steel warships armed to the teeth. For example, the swift wind ship that can ride the wind and waves without seeing a shadow. For example, the iron number one with a huge collision angle and an unstoppable spirit.