Apothecary Diaries Light Novel Volume 1 by Natsu Hyuuga

Apothecary Diaries Light Novel Volume 1 by Natsu Hyuuga (259 Pages)

Summary: In the East is a land ruled by an emperor, whose consorts and serving women live in a sprawling complex known as the hougong, the rear palace. Maomao, an unassuming girl raised in an unassuming town by her apothecary father, never imagined the rear palace would have anything to do with her—until she was kidnapped and sold into service there. Though she looks ordinary, Maomao has a quick wit, a sharp mind, and an extensive knowledge of medicine. That’s her secret, until she encounters a resident of the palace at least as perceptive as she is: the head eunuch, Jinshi. He sees through Maomao’s façade and makes her a lady-in-waiting to none other than the Emperor’s favorite consort... so she can taste the lady’s food for poison! At her lady’s side, Maomao starts to learn about everything that goes on in the rear palace—not all of it seemly. Can she ever lead a quiet life, or will her powers of deduction and insatiable curiosity bring her ever more adventures, and ever more dangers?

Opinion: This is the light novel that the manga and anime the Apothecary Diaries is based off of. I watched the first and second season, so I decided to read the novels as well. I think the anime does a good job of representing the light novel accurately. The only difference is that the light novel provides more detail and insight to the character's mindsets than the anime. Would definitely recommend for those who want to dive deeper into the characters of the Apothecary Diaries anime or manga.