NOW IN ENGLISH FOR THE FIRST TIME: Discover the popular Japanese light novel that inspired the fan-favorite Apothecary Diaries manga and anime!
A palace servant trained in herbal medicine finds herself at the heart of imperial intrigue in this lushly illustrated historical mystery.
Maomao leads an unassuming life with her apothecary father, but kidnappers whisk her away to a world of consorts and serving women in the empire s rear palace. Sold into imperial servitude, the girl keeps her quick wit, sharp mind, and medical knowledge a secret. But the head eunuch, Jinshi, shatters Maomao s low profile when she catches his eye. He perceives her true skills and makes her a lady-in-waiting to the rear palace s top consort. Can Maomao quietly pass her term as her lady s food tester, or will observational prowess and curiosity push her into danger as she uncovers turmoil at court?
This first installment in an ongoing light novel series starring an unforgettable female apothecary blends historical mystery and palace intrigue with a dash of romance inspiring the popular The Apothecary Diaries manga anime adaptations!
A palace servant trained in herbal medicine finds herself at the heart of imperial intrigue in this lushly illustrated historical mystery.
Maomao leads an unassuming life with her apothecary father, but kidnappers whisk her away to a world of consorts and serving women in the empire s rear palace. Sold into imperial servitude, the girl keeps her quick wit, sharp mind, and medical knowledge a secret. But the head eunuch, Jinshi, shatters Maomao s low profile when she catches his eye. He perceives her true skills and makes her a lady-in-waiting to the rear palace s top consort. Can Maomao quietly pass her term as her lady s food tester, or will observational prowess and curiosity push her into danger as she uncovers turmoil at court?
This first installment in an ongoing light novel series starring an unforgettable female apothecary blends historical mystery and palace intrigue with a dash of romance inspiring the popular The Apothecary Diaries manga anime adaptations!

eBook epub
No sooner is Maomao settled back in the royal capital than she's dragged off to a meeting of the named clans, and despite the posh surroundings, intrigue is the order of the day. Old grudges come to the surface, new ones threaten to break out into fights, and. . . is that a hint of love in the air? Maomao will have to navigate the twisting politics and conflicting priorities of the different clans-including hers-if she wants to survive one of the liveliest meetings around!