Essential Insights
- Princess protagonists are a common feature in shojo manhwa, often set in enchanting fantasy worlds with romantic undertones.
- This genre reinterprets classic fairy tales, often led by captivating main characters who propel the storyline.
- Recent title additions include Secret Lady, which merges elements of romance, fantasy, and intrigue for an enthralling experience.
There’s something quintessentially shojo about embodying a princess. Romance is a central theme in the shojo genre, explaining the allure of fantasy backdrops. Living within grand castles, donning intricate dresses, and developing affections for princes are elements that capture the essence of timeless fairy tales or dreams many cherish.
It’s no wonder that a plethora of shojo manhwa showcases characters who are princesses or noblewomen. Although many narratives share similar premises, a magnetic lead or a distinctive world-building concept often makes exceptional stories stand out.
Updated October 28, 2024 by Garrett Huon: The list has undergone minor adjustments, and the manhwa Secret Lady has been incorporated. This series features a duke’s daughter, centering around the crown prince, likely to resonate with fans familiar with similar narratives included here.
1 My Secretly Hot Husband
Her Husband Is Not The Beast But The Beauty
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.43
- Published: 2020 to 2023
- Genre/Theme: Fantasy, Romance, Reincarnation
- Author: Jungyeon
- Illustrator : Harara
This manhwa creatively twists classic tales. Underneath its playful title, the story resonates with the theme of Beauty and the Beast. Reincarnated as Letitia Grey, the lead character is betrothed to the lord of Halstead, rumored to be monstrous. Once she arrives, however, the truth reveals itself.
Filled with endearing characters, each with their arcs, the narrative is skillfully crafted, making even minor figures feel authentic. While it sticks to conventional storytelling, it exemplifies a well-executed shojo isekai.
2 I Am The Real One
She No Longer Needs Her Father’s Approval
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.45
- Published: 2020 to Present
- Genre/Theme: Fantasy, Romance, Time Travel
- Author: Samwol
- Illustrator : Yun
Keira has dedicated her existence to noble responsibilities, but her life takes a turn when a girl claims to be the true daughter of the Grand Duke, casting her position into doubt. After being framed as the antagonistic character and facing execution, luck seemingly turns for her as she travels back in time.
I Am The Real One embodies a classic shojo regression narrative that skillfully employs familiar tropes while prioritizing character development. Unlike typical revenge plots, Keira chooses to live her life while confronting her situation, with Cosette standing out as a tremendous antagonist who justly punishes the real villain, the Grand Duke.
3 Second Life Of A Trash Princess
The Princess Abandons Propriety To Get Revenge
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.47
- Author: Wheedrian
- Illustrator: Jonadan
- Published: 2022 to Present
- Genres/Themes: Fantasy, Romance, Time Travel
Princess Regina has lost it all—her family, her title, and her realm. However, in a final act of desperation, she is granted a chance to rewind time and choose a different path. This time, she rejects her former obedient role, determined to become the most notorious princess ever.
Many shojo tales falter with passive leads, but Regina defies this stereotype by actively pursuing her desires and ambitions. Her fierce determination is a revitalizing change for the genre.
4 Philomel The Fake
A Fake Princess Tries To Fix The Story
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.48
- Author: Oaen
- Illustrator: Logo
- Published: 2023 to Present
- Genres/Themes: Fantasy, Romance
One day, Princess Philomel discovers an unusual book in the garden featuring a protagonist with her name who faces dire circumstances due to being switched at birth. Dismissive of it as mere fiction, Philomel is soon confronted by the unfolding events from the story coming to life.
Unlike typical regression or reincarnation tales, Philomel narrates her experience as a child, embodying emotions that resonate authentically with youthful innocence, making her relatable and elevating the overall narrative immersion.
5 Mother’s Contract Marriage
A Little Girl From The Slums Learns To Be A Princess
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.86
- Author: He
- Illustrator: Choo, Hae-Yun
- Published: 2022 to Present
- Genres/Themes: Fantasy, Time Travel
This distinct manhwa presents a plot where the central character does not regress — rather, it’s Lyrica, a young girl from the slums who cares for her mother. When her mother unexpectedly begins behaving in surprising ways, they soon find themselves acclimating to palace life.
Lyrica’s kind-hearted nature shines as she navigates her new princess role. While the plot occasionally lacks direction, this ambiguity aligns with the child’s perspective. The enchanting art style invokes a feeling of wonder, reflecting Lyrica’s journey.
6 The Abandoned Empress
The Empress Goes Back In Time To Live Without Regrets
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.69
- Author: Yuna Jeong
- Illustrator: iNA
- Published: 2017 to 2021
- Genres/Theme: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Time Travel
This narrative follows a familiar royal trope where the lead receives a second chance at life. Aristia La Monique, a duke’s child, rewinds time after facing execution. With foresight into her future, she seeks to evade the title of empress by taking up the mantle of knight instead.
While many manhwa delve into similar themes, this story is acknowledged for its solid pacing, exquisite illustrations, and well-crafted characters. However, some readers found the conclusion unsatisfactory, tempering the overall enjoyment.
7 Into The Light, Once Again
A Reincarnated Princess Confronts Her Past
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.53
- Author: Tikatika
- Illustrator: Yuya
- Published: 2021 to Present
- Genres/Theme: Drama, Fantasy, Reincarnation
It’s rare to find a character who reincarnates into her original world. After being betrayed and executed by her family, Princess Alyssa is reborn as Aisha, the new princess of a rival empire.
The character-driven approach leads Aisha to determine her path. With her past behind her, she chooses to confront it rather than ignore it. Her journey towards self-improvement emphasizes how powerful character development can enhance a story’s depth.
8 The Monster Duchess And Contract Princess
A Girl With Dark Powers Chooses Her Real Family
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.56
- Author: Liaran
- Illustrator: MinJakk
- Published: 2019 to 2022
- Genres/Theme: Drama, Fantasy, Romance
This tale does not involve isekai or reawakening themes but tells a gripping story of a girl destined for sacrifice. Leslie escapes an abusive life and forms a bond with the Salvatore family, discovering the meaning of genuine familial love.
Leslie’s transformation propels the plot forward amidst numerous intricate subplots. A downside could be some repetitive subplots, which occasionally hinder the narrative’s momentum. Reiterating a lesson is only beneficial if it enhances the storyline.
9 For My Abandoned Love
Saving The Second Male Lead For A True Happy Ending
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.65
- Author: Seonyu Kim
- Illustrator: Kimyong
- Published: 2022 to Present
- Genres/Theme: Fantasy, Romance, Isekai, Reincarnation, Time Travel
This manhwa, also called For My Derelict Favorite, twists the conventional narrative by introducing Hestia, a fangirl who becomes a secondary character. Content to admire her favorite character Caelus from a distance, her life takes a turn for the worse.
The unfolding story delicately explores themes of depression, showcasing how one person’s support can make all the difference in Hestia’s journey. Witnessing her growth and proactive nature adds a refreshing nuance to the genre.
10 Happily Ever Afterwards
One Fangirl Lives Her Dream By Marrying Her Favorite Character
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.76
- Author: Dotol Hwang
- Illustrator: Jeongseo
- Chapters: 89
- Published: 2020 to 2022
- Genres/Theme: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Isekai, Reincarnation
When the lead character reincarnates into her beloved novel, she becomes Peony, a princess from the kingdom of Garten. As an entirely unfeatured character, her future seems promising, particularly since the original tale has concluded, yet her favorite character, Richt, finds himself abandoned in the northern wasteland.
What begins as an infatuation transforms into mutual understanding and romance, depicting one of the finest relationships in manhwa.
11 Saving My Sweetheart
God’s Favorite Princess Goes Back In Time To Save The Day
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.66
- Author: Mayak Jelly
- Illustrator: Jiui Kim
- Published: 2021 to Present
- Genres/Theme: Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Time Travel
In shojo fantasy, saintesses typically assume leading roles, but in this narrative, the evil queen is the focal point while her daughter aims to end her mother’s reign of terror. Leticia’s initial existence is defined by fear, yet she receives a divine reprieve to change her fate. She aspires to shield her loved ones at all costs.
Saving My Sweetheart effectively intertwines romance with an expansive narrative rich in world-building and character exploration, where the lore significantly influences the overall plot, crafting a more immersive reading experience.
12 Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady With The Lamp
A Doctor Lives Her Third Life As A Genius Princess
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.67
- Author: Yuin
- Illustrator: mini
- Published: 2017 to 2021
- Genres/Theme: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Reincarnation
Elise stands out as a captivating protagonist, having lived two previous lives. Entering her third life as a princess with a medical background creates a unique twist on reincarnation storytelling, distinguishing this manhwa within its genre.
Doctor Elise narrates a wholesome tale designed for the protagonist’s redemption yet emphasizes the integration of modern medicine into an earlier era. Although it may lack diversity in the narrative, its overall charm makes this manhwa enjoyable.
13 Beware The Villainess!
A Reincarnated Woman Wants To Live Peacefully
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.78
- Chapters: 128
- Published: 2020 to 2022
- Genre/Theme: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Isekai, Villainess
- Author: Ppongtta Mat Screw Bar
- Illustrator: Blue Canna
The intertwining themes of royalty and villainy are prevalent in shojo stories, especially where an antagonistic character may find themselves in the role of crown princess. Melissa Fodderbrat, who is reincarnated into this world, strives to cultivate a leisurely existence.
Renowned for her bold and assertive demeanor, Beware The Villainess! features a female lead who resists adhering to traditional norms, confidently challenging historical conventions. Melissa stands as one of the most beloved shojo characters ever depicted.
14 Marriage Of Convenience
She’s Given A Second Chance To Live
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.86
- Author: Ken
- Illustrator: Ant Studio
- Published: 2022 to Present
- Genres/Theme: Fantasy, Romance, Time Travel
Marriage of Convenience dives deep into gritty drama and tension, elevating what might appear to be a typical romance into a complex web of politics fraught with schemes and assassination attempts. The plot is packed with unexpected developments, particularly toward its climax.
The relationship dynamics between Bianca and Zachary anchor the narrative, bringing depth as their bond strengthens amidst new characters and emerging conflicts. While the story is heartwarming, its initial chapters may prove challenging for some readers.
15 Secret Lady
Ghosts Help A Young Girl Learn The Secrets Of The Royal Family
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.98
- Published: 2021 to Present
- Genre/Theme: Fantasy, Romance, Reincarnation, Supernatural
- Author: Anngato
- Illustrator: Banana
The narrative unfolds with Rosentine Arzen, the firstborn daughter of Duke Arzen, who possesses the ability to communicate with ghosts. This talent, hidden since her first life, re-emerges when she overhears ghosts discussing an assassination plot directed at the second prince, Charteris, compelling her to intervene.
Secret Lady crafts a gripping romance filled with mystery and supernatural elements. Beyond ghostly encounters, secrets and political conspiracies abound, making every chapter a thrilling exploration of revelations.
16 The Remarried Empress
The Empress Is Taken For Granted So She Moves To Another Kingdom
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.04
- Author: Alphatart
- Illustrator: Sumpul
- Published: 2019 to Present
- Genres/Theme: Fantasy, Romance
This tale brims with political tension, unfolding the story of Empress Navier as her power wavers with the rise of a new concubine, against whom she must maintain her status. The ensuing struggle engenders conflict within the palace, ultimately leading to her downfall.
Navier stands as a resilient character, a rarity within shojo narratives. She navigates through challenges with confidence and intelligence, continually strategizing for her future, showcasing the intricacies of court life.
17 The Reason Why Raeliana Ended Up At The Duke’s Mansion
A Normal College Student Saves Herself In A Romance Novel
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.15
- Author: Milcha
- Illustrator: Gorae
- Published: 2017 to 2021
- Genres/Theme: Fantasy, Romance, Isekai, Reincarnation
This narrative encapsulates the classic isekai trope involving contract marriages and dodging death flags, yet goes further. The protagonist, Park Eunha, meets her demise only to be reborn as Raeliana McMillan, a character whose tragic fate ignites the plot.
Incorporating mystery into what could have been a straightforward tale, Raeliana emerges as a compelling lead, actively steering the story when it risks stagnation. Some loose plot ends linger, but they do not detract from the overall experience.
18 Who Made Me A Princess
A Lonely Princess Tries Her Best To Get On Her Father’s Good Side
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.45
- Author: Plutus
- Illustrator: Spoon
- Published: 2017 to 2022
- Genres/Theme: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Reincarnation
This manhwa serves as a must-read for fans of royal-themed stories. It follows a girl reincarnated into the life of Athanasia, the disregarded daughter of Emperor Claude. While initially a fight for survival, it evolves into a narrative about family and personal connections.
Athy’s initial detachment from her father gradually shifts to become the focal point of the narrative, showcasing the progression of their relationship in a manner that has influenced numerous subsequent stories within the genre.
Leave a Reply