Apothecary Diaries

What can I say about the Apothecary Diaries that hasn’t been said already? Jinshi my goat!!!!

*Spoilers for Season 1 and 2 Ahead Beware*

Apothecary Diaries is a delightful watch from start to finish. Following the life of the apothecary Maomao and her misadventures in the royal Rear Palace, we start with her immediately being kidnapped and sold to the palace as a servant. She is quickly singled out from the servants for being educated by Jinshi, the manager of the Rear Palace. After being singled out by Jinshi, Maomao is made to be a Lady in Waiting for one of the Emperor’s consorts and Maomao’s life is changed forever.

She quickly forms bonds with many throughout the palace and shows her worth as an expert in poisons. Throughout season 1 Jinshi is seen to have a blossoming interest in Maomao. Towards the end of season 1 we discover that perhaps there is more to Jinshi than just being the manager of the Rear Palace. With possible ties to the royal family uncovered, and many hijinks that were directly Maomao’s fault, her servitude and Lady in Waiting is ended and she is allowed to return to her father, only for Jinshi to hire her back at the palace.

Season 2 continues to build the bond between the two while they uncover a plot to overthrow the country. Without spoiling too much, I can just say the twist at the end of the season blows the whole show up in a way that makes me hungry for more.

Something that really makes this show so good to watch is the dynamic between Jinshi and Maomao. They continuously end up in precarious situations together and Jinshi’s interest in her becomes very clear. Unfortunately for the young prince, Maomao does not seem to care enough to realize she also likes him. This allows for so many fun interactions within the story that don’t take away from the plot, but rather enhance the story of the Apothecary Diaries to another level.

This show was a great binge and satisfied both the romcom itch and action itch at the same time. It was funny, fast paced, interesting, and beautiful in its storytelling. I cannot wait for season 3 and I recommend you watch seasons 1 and 2 now to get ready!