Reviews

The Apothecary Diaries, Volume 2 by Itsuki Nanao, Natsu Hyuuga

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morgain's review against another edition

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adventurous dark funny fast-paced

4.0

nymphie's review against another edition

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4.0

I enjoyed this volume more than the last. After months in the Jade Palace, Maomao has finally gained the favor and respect of the other ladies-in-waiting to Lady Gyokuyo, and it is wonderful to see them bonding and becoming friends. Her love of poisons and toxins is a bit bizarre, but it’s nice to actually see Maomao in action successfully performing her duty as the principal consort’s food taster.

I also have to commend the character and outfit design in this volume. The artist mentions in their thank you note that descriptions of the dresses worn during the garden banquet were not given in the original light novel, so they had to design and draw the outfits themselves. They turned out absolutely gorgeous. Nekokurage is insanely talented.

reyna_bm's review against another edition

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informative lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

coolschoolgal's review against another edition

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emotional funny inspiring lighthearted mysterious relaxing medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

stephrod's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted medium-paced

3.75

saramarie08's review against another edition

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4.0

After figuring out what ailment has stricken one of the emperor’s concubines and their child, Maomao has been instructed by the emperor to nurse his concubine back to health. The ladies-in-waiting, though, have made her job much more difficult, by questioning her methods at every turn and continuing to use the banned poisonous foundation on their mistress. Maomao shames the offending lady-in-waiting, and suddenly al the others fall in line as well. The eunuch Jinshi is witness to Maomao’s sternness. Once back in the realm of her Lady, Maomao learns the emperor and his court are planning to put on an elaborate party in the garden during spring - which is still very cold. Maomao sews pockets in her clothes for warm stones, and quickly finds herself doing the same for most everyone else she knows. During her official capacity as food taster, she notices a food allergy amongst one of the other concubines, and someone deliberately trying to poison her.

Read the full review, and find more graphic novel reviews, at The Graphic Library.