The Apothecary Diaries: Maomao's Notes on the Format: Paperback

Can Maomao unravel the mysteries of the inner palace? Find out in this official manga adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries light novels!

Maomao’s life as an apothecary is turned upside down when she’s abducted and sold to the Inner Palace as a maid. She’s determined to serve out her contract without drawing attention to herself, but her insatiable curiosity and passion for poisons pull her into a world of palace mysteries!

Maomao investigates the mysterious deaths of the emperor’s children and secretly intervenes to save a life, but her actions don’t go unnoticed. The handsome eunuch Jinshi catches her by surprise and pushes her into becoming one of Consort Gyokuyo’s ladies-in-waiting—the food taster, a role she’s perfectly suited for because of her expertise in herbology, medicine, and—perhaps most importantly—poison.

Born and raised in Fukuoka Prefecture, Hyuganatsu is a Japanese author best known for the light novel series The Apothecary Diaries, which has been adapted into two manga series and an anime. Her pen name comes from her favorite fruit, a yuzu-like citrus fruit that is native to Japan.

Minoji Kurata is a Japanese manga artist best known for her manga adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries. Her other works include Assassin’s Creed: Blade of Shao Jun, a manga adaptation of the video game Assassin’s Creed: China. She loves video games, especially the Assassin’s Creed series and Elden Ring.

Touko Shino is a Japanese illustrator best known as the character designer for the light novel series The Apothecary Diaries. Shino has also done illustrations for the light novels Ouroboros Record and Hyakkakyu no Osouji-gakari: Tensei shita Shinmai Kyuujo, Koukyuu no Onayami Kaiketsu shimasu (Housekeeper of the Hundred Blossom Palace: Novice Court Lady Resolves the Inner Palace Intrigues).