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A review by brenticus
The Apothecary Diaries: Volume 11 by Natsu Hyuuga
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This volume really speaks to the broader strength of the series' characters. Maomao is still fun to follow and is obviously the protagonist, but in the core events of this volume she takes a backseat and is only occasionally aware of what's going on. More of the action is driven by political intrigue from Gyoku-ou, or the actions of other side characters behind the scenes, than by Maomao and her typical investigations.
Despite this, it's a fantastic volume. The politics are tense, the worldbuilding answers some long-standing questions and makes connections that are interesting even when they feel like they're filling in characters with minimal character to them. The climax is surprising and sudden, but at the same time it makes sense and is satisfying.
It's always a bit of a question mark on where this series can go from here - it has changed so much and continues to change so much - but I look forward to the next volume as always.
Despite this, it's a fantastic volume. The politics are tense, the worldbuilding answers some long-standing questions and makes connections that are interesting even when they feel like they're filling in characters with minimal character to them. The climax is surprising and sudden, but at the same time it makes sense and is satisfying.
It's always a bit of a question mark on where this series can go from here - it has changed so much and continues to change so much - but I look forward to the next volume as always.