Kusuriya no Hitorigoto

My Thoughts on Kusuriya no Hitorigoto

"Kusuriya no Hitorigoto," or "The Apothecary Diaries," has been quite the ride! Set in a world reminiscent of ancient China, it's a blend of mystery, slice-of-life, and a hint of romance, all seen through the eyes of the pragmatic and poison-loving Maomao. After diving deep into this novel, I can definitely see why it has such a dedicated following.

First Impressions

Right off the bat, I was drawn in by Maomao's unique personality. She's not your typical heroine; she's level-headed, intelligent, and has a refreshing lack of interest in the usual courtly dramas. Getting kidnapped and sold into service in the inner palace doesn't break her, it just becomes another problem to solve. This grounded perspective, combined with the intriguing setting, immediately set it apart from other stories in the genre.

What Works Well

The mysteries are definitely a highlight. They're not overly complex, but they're cleverly woven into the larger narrative, creating a satisfying sense of resolution when everything clicks into place. I appreciate how the author foreshadows events and clues, rewarding attentive readers. Maomao herself is a fantastic character. Her sharp wit, scientific curiosity, and general indifference to social expectations make her incredibly endearing. She's a breath of fresh air, and her interactions with other characters, especially the enigmatic Jinshi, are often hilarious. The world-building is also well done. The author uses familiar Chinese historical elements without relying too heavily on tired tropes, creating a setting that feels both authentic and engaging. The supporting cast is also strong, with each character having their own distinct personality and motivations.

Areas of Concern

While I enjoyed the novel immensely, there were a few minor drawbacks. The romance is slow. Like, glacial slow. Some readers might find it frustrating, especially if they're looking for a more central romantic plot. I have also seen complaints about the translation quality in earlier volumes, with some awkward phrasing and occasional difficulties in understanding the nuances of the story.

Final Verdict

Despite its minor flaws, "Kusuriya no Hitorigoto" is a fantastic read. It's a refreshing take on the historical mystery genre, with a compelling protagonist, intriguing plot, and well-developed world. If you're looking for a story that's both thought-provoking and entertaining, I highly recommend giving this one a try. Just be prepared for a very slow-burn romance!