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.

I love when a manga really pulls you in and makes it so your excited for the next and the next one. So easy to read and really get invested in the characters. Not to mention just the amount of time I laughed out loud which is a personal favorite of it happen. Can’t wait for the next

Amazing manga, came on time

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).

Exactly what it is described as. This is a light novel, so it is read from right to left. If you've watched the anime, you will adore the novels.

Beautiful story cant wait to buy more

Has good storyline. I love the animas and manga and how this has more detail than the animae it lovely

You ask me who my favorite character is? I can only say "Maomao, obviously." There is literally a lot you can learn from this young apothecary. Call her the House, M.D. of her day. Only she does not play around about the rules. As for Jinshi, the eunuch, where he fails in manners, he succeeds in choices and timing.

J’ai hâte de lire la suite. Je n’ai pas vu le temps passer. Les dessins sont beaux et les personnages sont attachants.

All good

Came super quick, amazing quality, I love it.

Tudo ok

Good