Transmigrated as the Eldest Legitimate Grandson in an Imperial Examination Novel
Original Title: 穿成科举文里的嫡长孙
Author: MM Dou
Raw Link: Chuan Cheng Keju Wenli de Di Zhangsun
Male Lead:
Female Lead:
Synopsis:
Li Nian accidentally transmigrates into an imperial examination novel titled “The Illegitimate Son’s Rise”, becoming Pei Shaohuai—the legitimate eldest grandson of an earl’s household.
In the original story, the male protagonist Pei Shaojin is born of a concubine, yet exceptionally intelligent and diligent. He steadily rises through the imperial examinations, ultimately achieving the top rank (Zhuangyuan) and basking in unparalleled glory.
In contrast, the legitimate eldest grandson Pei Shaohuai is a notorious playboy—indulgent, extravagant, and reckless. Consumed by jealousy over his half-brother’s talent, he commits countless foolish acts and eventually degenerates into a drunken wastrel.
Faced with such an absurd “script,” Pei Shaohuai is baffled:
His younger brother has a good temperament, great learning, strong fortune, and upright character—why would anyone be jealous of him?
Pei Shaohuai decides to live a steady and disciplined life. Like his brother, he studies diligently, prepares for the imperial examinations, and strives to restore the family’s former glory.
Later, during the examinations—
Everyone says: The two Pei brothers are unstoppable, dominating the rankings every single time!
At court, the brothers support each other and repeatedly earn merit.
The officials remark: “How enviable for Earl Jingchuan—to have gained two outstanding grandsons at once!”
The Emperor declares: “Two shining stars from one family—reward them!”
[Reading Notes]:
- The original male and female leads are not mistreated; the illegitimate son remains outstanding.
- Slow-burn story, with some business and farming elements.
- Includes marriage and children; career development is the main focus.
Tags: Rising to prominence, transmigration, imperial examinations, court politics
One-line summary:
The legitimate eldest son refuses to be a wastrel.
Theme:
Advancing together—two stars from one family.
Brief Review:
College student Li Nian transmigrates into an imperial examination novel as the spoiled legitimate eldest grandson Pei Shaohuai, becoming a foil to the protagonist—his younger brother. Determined to rewrite the original plot, he studies hard alongside his brother, takes the imperial examinations, and works to restore the family’s honor.
In time, the two brothers repeatedly top the rankings, dominate first-place honors, achieve the prestigious “Threefold First” (placing first in all major exams), and accomplish remarkable feats at court—becoming twin stars of their family.
The novel features a tightly structured plot, delicate emotional development, and a writing style rich with classical flavor. The storyline is well-designed and carefully researched, especially in its detailed portrayal of the imperial examination process. The depiction of a loving, supportive family is particularly moving.