The Apothecary Diaries 01 (Manga)

Originally a light novel, The Apocathery Diaries is an enchanting and entertaining manga. The setting is a fictional, imperial court, and empire, probably based loosely on Chinese, Korean and Japanese imperial cultures. The story includes various mystery solved by the excellent protagonist, MaoMao. My 12 year old daughter and I both enjoy the stories and the excellent female protagonist. The protagonist, MaoMao is a confident, eccentric, antisocial, intelligent young woman. Because of her insatiable curiosity and intellect she is unable to resist examining the various mysteries that she encounters, despite her desire to avoid entangling in human drama. MaoMao would rather commit all her time and attention to the study of medicinal and toxic plants. Her character is very much in the tradition of the antisocial, eccentric, genius detective (Think Sherlock Holmes and his unmatched knowledge of tobacco composition, but ignorance of the structure of the solar system). Having a female character in this role is very appealing to me as a female reader and mother of two daughters. Political machinations, historical conditions for women, the scientific process, medicinal plants are among the topics that are explored with a light, but well-research approach. The plots are are logical, and well paced. Character driven plots run throughout the series, whereas the mystery plots form shorter arcs. Other characters are sketched out well over time and reveal many little eccentricities. The manga has intelligent, character-driven humor. And the art is BEAUTIFUL - really top notch! The figure drawing is well proportioned, the faces are varied and interesting, the facial expressions and postures are so entertaining. The art is clean, detailed and truly adds to plot and character. We enjoy the art so much, we look for other manga illustrated by Nekokurage. A note to parents -- MaoMao was raised in a brothel and works in an Emperor's Consorts' quarters. In keeping with her very direct character, MaoMao mentions and discusses topics related to human sexuality. These are not illustrated or discussed in an explicit or graphic manner (I have not found any nudity) but they are an obvious part of MaoMao's world.

Ok so in the beginning I was afraid this was going to be another one of those mangas where the female lead is swooning over the Male lead but the manga quickly shows you that this fem mc is not like most others. She is smart and uses her intelligence well her interactions with the ML are comedy gold AND she oozies with character she is definitely one of the most unique mc I have seen in manga. The male lead is annoying at first but you quickly learn to like him and his bunter with the MC.

A great companion to the light novels and the anime. I’m completely in love with MaoMao and her world. Smart writing and completely enjoyable. A rare find.

A young herbalist and doctor ends up in the harem of the emporer as an enslaved maid. She tries to keep her head down, but cannot resist helping one of the emporer's wives and children. Noticed for her skills and intelligence she joins the lady in question as a foodtaster and herbalist. The setting is different and intriguing. I like the protagonist's role and personality, intelligent xand shrewed, but helpful. The lack of an over arching plot and slow pace were not unexpected, but not exactly liked. The manga lacked depth in regards to the setting. It does make me curious about the light novel. All in all, a good read, but not enough to overcome my dislike for manga (and comics).

I love it!

Loved series

I am hooked and I can’t wait to read more! I love the anime! As well as reading the light novels and manga. On to the next books.

it came with no damage and it's a great manga!