Using her wit and vast knowledge of medicines and poisons alike, Maomao played a pivotal role in solving a series of mysteries and conspiracies that plagued the imperial court. Having recently come to terms with the secrets of her parents, she returns to fulfill her normal duties on behalf of the emperor's highest-ranking consorts. Maomao also works alongside the eunuch Jinshi to better the consorts' many ladies-in-waiting, including helping them learn to read.
However, with the arrival of a merchant caravan comes a new wave of intrigue. A pattern of strange coincidences involving the visitors and their wares unsettles Maomao, driving her to investigate the puzzling circumstances behind the convoy. As dangers from both outside and within threaten the balance between the imperial concubines, Maomao continues to utilize her cunning and medical expertise to keep the women safe from harm.
[Written by MAL Rewrite]
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Comentários
Marinate1016
I thought I loved apothecary diaries before, but man season 2 showed me I hadn’t even scratched the surface of what makes this series so special. In short, this season is an improvement in basically every way on what was already one of the best ongoing LN/anime series around. The way Hyuga-sensei paid off so many of the plot points that she’s been building up to since the first season made this an awesome weekly viewing experience. Every little detail, seemingly meaningless interaction or character, they all come together in the climax of this season making for one of the best payoffs I’ve seen ina long time. The worldbuilding in this series is truly second to none and while some episodes might seem a little slow, they’re all building up towards a very satisfying and emotional payoff at the end. If you liked season 1 of apothecary diaries, you haven’t seen anything yet. This is where the story really gets going and almost feels like a prologue ending. This is Maomao at her best, the political intrigue becomes a much bigger focus, PLUS our romance really starts to take shape here. I thoroughly enjoyed all 24 episodes here and I cannot wait for season 3 and to continue reading in the books!
So for me there’s 3 big things that make this season better than season 1. First off, Maomao’s character development. Now we all know our girl is a bit slow when it comes to other peoples’ emotions and that makes sense because of her upbringing and the emotional issues she has. In this season, we got to see her really grow as a person and truly open up to others. This is a huge theme as it made the last arc so much more impactful than it would’ve been with season 1 Maomao. The second thing being the political intrigue and manoeuvring. Now for some people this might be a little boring, but I absolutely love seeing people pull strings from the shadows and make moves like it’s a chess game to gain power, get revenge, change the culture of the kingdom, etc. I really liked how much of a slow-burn it was as well. It’s like every episode there’s something happening in the background that you might not think is important, then it’ll be referenced 3-4 episodes later and it all just snowballs into this massive conspiracy that forms the overarching narrative of the season. That same conspiracy causes Maomao to grow as a person and brings she and Jinshi closer. That brings me to my third point, Jinmao! You can’t really talk about Apothecary Diaries without its main ship and for good reason, Jinshi and Maomao are one of the best written ships in the medium. It is the perfect slow burn relationship and Hyuuga-sensei makes a point to make sure both of them understand themselves as individuals and one another before progressing it. It makes the relationship feel so much more authentic and earned than what you typically get in this medium and I think that’s reflected in the sheer amount of fans this ship has. It’s beloved for a reason and this season really shows you why. From the iconic “frog” scene to the finale episode, it’s just a nonstop roller coaster with them and as a romance enthusiast and massive fan of the ship, I loved every second of it.
I felt like the story overall in this season was way stronger than the first. While we started out with some seemingly unrelated minor cases for Maomao to solve, it quickly became apparent that everything was part of a wider conspiracy that slowly came together over the course of the first cour and really got going in the second half. I for one love all the lore about the royal family, learning about the previous emperor and his transgressions, trading dynamics with other countries and the other political players within the kingdom itself. It generally felt like the world got way bigger AND dangerous in this season. We also saw way more of the world. I’m really a fan of authors slowly expanding the world, almost drip feeding you, and making you want more information as soon as possible. It’s just a testament to how interesting the story and characters are that you crave more of it and every week I was dying for the next episode because of that here.
Without going into too much detail because of spoilers, another thing that really took this season to the next level for me was the relationship between Shisui and Maomao. Genuinely one of the best written friendships you’ll see and it’s actually probably the biggest catalyst for Maomao’s development in the story so far. Every interaction with them was gold and I love how they come to see each other as sisters, helping one another deal with trauma. It’s really the foundation of the second cour and plays a pivotal role in the emotional climax of the season. If you enjoy seeing well written female friendships with a nice sprinkling of yuri vibes, you’ll enjoy this one. You can’t escape Shisui fan-art online for a reason, she’s amazing and one of the best supporting characters of the year.
Production values were top notch as usual, but the seiyuu performances in the second season were probably even better than the first. Partly due to the story just being better, but I think Yuuki Aoi and Seto Asami and Otsuka Takeo were immense. Really drove home the powerful emotional moments.
Apothecary Diaries season 2 was an absolute joy and made 6 months go by in the blink of an eye. Started a little slow, but truthfully I even enjoyed those slower moments because I love Maomao and this story so much. Once it got going, though, it was a nonstop roller coaster with tons of twists, lore drops, reveals, character development. This has all the makings of an all time great story and the craziest part is this was basically just the prologue ending. The final episode title of “the beginning” is so apt because only after the finale are we finally really going to get going here. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Apothecary Diaries season 2 gets a very easy 10 frogs out of 10.
bunnymai
This season is worse than the previous one. Season 1 Maomao seemed like an intelligent capable heroine solving problems around the palace. However, in season 2, the plots get much more convoluted and frankly, much more confusing, involving way too many characters we barely see. Honestly, I like shows with political intrigue normally, but the fact that Maomao is literally the only capable person in the series and solves every single issue and escapes unscathed each time is a bit unrealistic. The ending is an extreme let down. I won't spoil it, but it's incredibly unrealistic and frankly, makes a lot of exposition and tension inearlier episodes pretty pointless. I can't decide if this is a children's anime from their unwillingness to deal with heavy themes, or an adult anime from their frequent sexual suggestiveness.
As with season 1, the worst character by far is rapey Jinshi. He is so incredibly rapey I can't believe the manga was written by a woman. He always forces himself onto Maomao, despite her clearly indicating her unease or disinterest. He acts like a petulant child and sulks whenever he doesn't get his way, it's so revolting to watch. I honestly can't see any redeeming qualities from him. Any scene with him in it is just ruined. I said in my Season 1 review that I predicted he would not actually have been castrated, because no way they have the courage to write a leading man who doesn't have the parts. Well I wasn't wrong.. Which makes him so much more rapey, hanging around the rear palace by choice despite not being a eunuch, ignoring his real responsibilities
BrotherCoa
One of the best anime this year, I might say even better than 1st season. If you got here hoping for continuation of the 1st season in all of it's glory - you are in luck. Animation and sound - simply beautiful. Animation was fluid and consistent from start to finish and the music was such a joy to listen to. Not much else to day, it was a treat for both eyes and ears. Characters: Continuing from 1st season we still have our old gang back. Mao Mao is hilarious and never cease to amaze and Junshi is still cool and collected official who is slowlymaking his gains. Shisui and Suirei get the most character development this season, you can say that this season revolves around them. The rest of the characters get minor development, but overall each episode was thrilling and full of excitement.
Overall characters are fun and you can really invest in some of them.
Story - Solid continuation from 1st season. Half of the story is centered aroudn new development and half of it is filled with tension, drama and tears. The rest is either random events (which are always funny) and single serious plot with frog (those who know - know).
Overall the story will not disappoint and it will leave you in tears and wanting for more.
Overall grade: 10. Well deserved to that.
I highly recommend, if you liked the 1st season you will like this one as well.
bossunhimeswitch
I ended up watching season 1 and season 2 back to back because I was late to the party, and boy this anime (both seasons) has been a party. This review, of course, is about season two and only season two. Season two for me was almost as strong as season one but not quite, however, my engagement level and enjoyment factor were the same, which is why I rated this season a 10. It was my favorite of its cour. Once I caught up I looked forward to every episode that came after and I HAD TO KNOW what happened next. Even now I'msad I'm not in for an even longer wait for new episodes, but I am super hyped that we're going to have a third season of this story. The characters are strong and engaging. The narrative does not lag, though at times it can meander a little. I also like that the circumstances and settings change every so often which keeps things fresh and increases anticipation of new episodes.
If you enjoyed the first season you'll likely enjoy this season. If you didn't enjoy the first season or wants things to remain similar to the first season then you might be disappointed.
patkarunungan
I enjoyed Season 1 of the Apothecary Diaries. How does Season 2 fare compared to Season 1? It's a mixture of good and bad. In fact, after finishing Season 2, I have given up on the idea that it has an overarching plot. It's possible the author had such a plot in mind, but it was not apparent in Season 2, and I don't think it will be apparent in future seasons until, to use the language nowadays, 'he's had time to cook.' The technical aspects and visual elements remain impressive as ever. It has good use of colours and shadows, and it conveys how grandthe imperial palace is. I won't belabour this point as this should be obvious and other people have written on this far better than I could.
The first cour's opening is great, and the second cour's ending theme hits the right emotions.
My review will focus on the pacing. This season feels like the good stuff is being drip-fed, or perhaps some breadcrumbs are thrown here and there. You don't know why you are being fed this information, but you always suspect that something is up.
This pacing makes the anime feel boring. You know the writing is great in that you are provided clues and seemingly unimportant but crucial details, but you can't help but feel bored. The anime only picks up at the climax of this season.
The boring episodes function as worldbuilding. Māo Māo (猫猫) deduces the relationship of character X to character Y, leading us to a partial picture. The full extent will be revealed in future episodes. A great example of this is how Season 1 hinted at Jinshi's relationship with the emperor. I won't use examples from this season to avoid spoiling it, but suffice it to say that a similar pattern can be observed in this season.
There are other variations of this that Māo Māo does, but the point is that these episodes, as boring as they are, are a necessary setup that leads to the payoff in the final episodes.
The Apothecary Diaries is not an intricately plot-driven story, and if you're looking for one, I suggest Yatagarasu more. The worldbuilding of the Apothecary Diaries lies in the progressive revelation of an intricate web of relationships among the people in the Imperial Palace. This is the strength of The Apothecary Diaries.
In Season 1, I was expecting a villain who was secretly pulling the strings, and Lakan, who was revealed to be Māo Māo's father, seemed to fit this expectation, but I was proven wrong. In Season 2, I tried looking for one such villain, but no one appeared to be so. That's why I've given up hope that such a being might exist, though it's still possible he or she may appear in future seasons.
Let's face it. If Season 1 and Season 2 were two different episodes of a 12-episode anime, such an anime would feel episodic. This is why I'm now inclined to think of The Apothecary Diaries as more character-driven than plot-driven. There seems to be a plot in both seasons, but such a plot is limited to the specific season and doesn't follow in the next season. The only constant in both seasons is the budding romance between Māo Māo and Jinshi, and they have great chemistry. Their cat-and-dog dynamic provides the emotional throughline that keeps people engaged, probably the main reason why people keep watching this show.
Anyway, despite my misgivings, there's a good reason why people should watch Season 2. A seemingly minor character that you may have been indifferent to or even felt some antipathy and actively disliked in Season 1 turns out to be a great character, and one can argue that this person is the best character in Season 2. This person gives Māo Māo a run for her money.
I am giving this anime a score of 6 out of 10 and marking it as mixed feelings. I have mixed feelings in that this season did not engage me as much as Season 1. Like I said, the boring parts of Season 2 are a setup and have a great payoff at the end, but the early episodes might discourage viewers from watching further.
A score of 6 out of 10 is still high in my rating system, but it's a steep drop from the 9 out of 10 I gave the first season.
NOTA BENE: A grade of 6 out of 10 means that I find this anime slightly above average and I enjoyed watching it.
A 6 means a decent score and one notch above average. If you're the kind of viewer who treats anything below a 7 as irredeemable, I'd encourage a broader, more nuanced approach to rating.
My enjoyment spectrum lies from 4 to 10. If I have scored an anime below 4, I actively dislike it.
joemaamah
I try to wait at least a day after a season finale, to try and keep from gushing or trashing it too much. But it was a real struggle for this season. I don't really think I could gush enough. But I'll try to keep it to a minimum. The art work was phenominal again. I think the background work was even more lush. The character art was about par with season 1 for the mains, but where they absolutely excelled was with the designs for the ladies of the court. They were truly beautiful in a most regal manner. Animation was also top notchwhen compared to today's usual isekai trash. But I think it slid ever so slightly, especially in the middle episodes. They snuck in some cost saving measures season 1 avoided. It was nothing really distracting, though. Things ramped up for the finale, and overall the animation was quite fine again.
The character writing was nothing short of superb. All the concubines and their ladies in waiting where fascinating. The trio of Maomao, Loulan/Shisui and Suirei were lovely and tragic at the same time. Maomao and Jinshi's little games of cat and mouse were cute and comic. Maomao felt froggy, but she never leaped.
This was the most impressive season of narrative of any anime I've seen in a while. It starts out kind of slow and laid back, but I thought it was a nice contrast to what turns out to be a story of mystery, betrayal and high drama. There are lots of big reveals this season, and the writers handled them well. While I wasn't totally convinced this would wrap up well, the writers came up with a completely satisfying ending.
The VA work was supreme once again. And the direction was masterful in keeping everything believable and on track. Kudos to all invovled.
Sick of all the shonen/isekai/mecha/romcom slop the studios dump into the mass consumption trough? Let me recommend this title as the cure for what ails you. Take a great big dose. This is so close to an A+, my magic 100/100 grade. Still a masterpiece at 98/100 for a solid A, indeed. Stop being catty, and give this franchise the chance it deserves.
_Maria_chan_
I'm gonna finish my review shortly. First I'll say, such a wonderful and unique storyline really well written. This season had a lot more mysteries and plot twists than last season and It can also be a bit emotional. We will know a lot about some characters in this season. What I like most is that, along with Mystery and a bit of romance, the medical theme is given a lot of importance. I really liked Maomao love of making medicine and her research on poisonous substances. Also the way she finds solutions to every mysterious problem like a detective is truly mind-blowing. To behonest, this anime will never bore or disappoint you for sure.
Btw, There is nothing new to say about the animation. Like the first season, the animation was impressive again.
And the two opening and endings of this anime were also so beautiful. Specially the second opening was too good.
I've never watched a anime like 'The Apothecary Diaries' and I really don't think there are any other anime like this.
5iv3_
Our favorite mystery solving apothecary show has come to end for this season, but this season was absolutely amazing so let's go over some highlights! First, I will mention, this season sits a lower rating for me than the first, HOWEVER with that being said, the latter half of this season was so good that it honestly could blow the rest of the show outta the water ngl. It only sits at a lower rating than the first because the beginning of this season was a little slow (that may have to do with the fact that i've read the manga up until the middleof this season. so i knew what was happening). Now, with that outta the way!
The whole of this season was so enjoyable with some really interesting moments between our cast of characters. Some specifics for this season:
1. Animation: As always, looks wonderful. I love the art and the overall look for this series a ton, and the anime always manages to keep it looking clean and crisp. Visually, it looks lovely so I was happy with this season in that department.
2. Plot: I only read till halfway through this season so from about episode 15 till the end it was completely new content for me. So, when we reached new content, I was SOO tempted to read the manga again because the plot was SO amazing I was having the time of my life. Truly, and having breaks in between some episodes was actually killing me. This is such a great show, and can't wait for S3!
In summary, Apothecary diaries truly is just such a wonderful show. Especially for modern times, it's amazing, and we get so much of it (2 cours consecutively). I'm waiting patiently for S3 👏🫶
chromelain
Simple and easy: Gaoshun on armor. Lakan exists and he's perfect, do I need to say anything else? But talking seriously, this season was pretty good. Chemistry between Maomao and mostly everyone is nice. Her growth is gradual but visible (emotional maturity as she's already competent doing her job), Jinshi growth is more visible in this season but nothing rushed. The ending ties together both of the seasons and nothing comes out of nowhere. What would make this anime perfect for me is being a little more experimental with the animation, it is super pretty but not that interesting. The first season was prettier in the episodes,OPs and EDs.
Please, don't watch it if you don't like female lead characters, animes with mostly female cast or a romance so slow that can be infuriating to some. Things do not get better from the first season and the themes only get heavier and more complex. The structure of mistery per episode isn't kept here.
Remember to have fun, hug your emotional support frog (灬º‿º灬)♡ and enjoy the ride!
RomanRonin
Before getting into the details, this is once again one of the best anime of the modern day. I don't say that lightly. Between the visuals, the story, the characters, and everything else that goes into an anime, there are few you will ever find that compare to Kusuriya no Hitorigoto. But, if you're on this season, you already know that. So instead, let me nitpick this season from a place of love, as I think there are a few more noticeable flaws compared to the first season Firstly, and the most prominent flaw of the entire series in my opinion, is the tone. Kusuriya noHitorigoto balances the thin line between romance, historical palace drama, and suspenseful thriller. In most cases, I think it does this very well. However, there are times where you'd expect the show to tread into darker waters, but it refuses to. Without spoiling anything, there are multiple arcs where the main 'dark' element of the story, whether it be rebellion, abuse, etc, is watered down and not actually detailed. Instead, they skirt around these dark aspects and put all of the weight on the viewer to imagine them. This, however, makes everything seem soft and seriously dampens the stakes at play. There is a plot arc in the second half that puts Maomao in serious danger, but the show is so soft in portraying it that there is never really any moment where you feel concern for her. There is one single character who comes across as outright evil and actually threatens Maomao, but she is so cartoonishly so that it actually overwhelms her basic logic and makes her come across as a stupid token character. Now this unwillingness to dive into the darker tones within the narrative isn't new, but Season 1 was still more willing to unveil glimpses of darkness than this season was. This season, geared more towards actual politics rather than rear-palace dynamics, felt completely devoid of any actually threatening evil. The clan in question that orchestrates a rebellion, for instance, does so on shaky logic, is beaten almost comically easy, and is still portrayed in a good light at the end for some completely undeveloped plot-thread about rooting out internal corruption. (Personally, I think this in some way a consequence of the censorship the story has clearly suffered in order to be palatable to Chinese audiences, but that's a different discussion).
Secondly, there are some key moments in this season that are more theatric than narratively sound. I'm thinking chiefly of the penultimate episode where the arcs of multiple main characters come to a finale. Both are visually great and allude to other parts of the story, but both are lacking in actual substance. One comes across as pointless, another as overly drawn out and dramatic. Both feel unsatisfying, as the first is never really developed as a character despite his importance to the story, and the second loses all suspense behind her supposed 'death' near immediately (not a spoiler because it's literally shown in the very same episode in very unambiguous terms).
There are a handful of arbitrary decisions made at times that don't really make sense. For instance, in that aforementioned final scene, Basen not once, but twice performs an extrajudicial action without even asking Jinshi for approval. There is no realm in which this action isn't hasty or detrimental to the kingdom, and yet this isn't addressed at all. Same with Lishu's mistreatment by her staff. One minor arc covers it and even has Jinshi step in, but this is forgotten almost immediately and Lishu remains mistreated, albeit more covertly now.
Now, if you've read all of that and assumed I disliked this season, you'd be mistaken. It was still the same old Kusuriya no Hitorigoto that we all know and love. The characters are as interesting as ever, the VAs are killer, and the animation is great. The actual main arcs are interesting and there's a lot of plot progression, even more so than the first season. If you like the political scheming aspect of Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, then this is likely an even better season than the first. If you prefer the mystery detective side of things, this still has those moments, but not nearly as much. The nitpicks I've covered are just me venting my frustrations at an anime that was 99% of the way to being flawless, but falling 1% short. Definitely worth a watch, but you already know that at this point.
Darkzepheran
It amazes me that I never made a review of Season 1. What the HELL have I been doing??? Well, at this point, if you are reading this, you already know, this is what PEAK looks like people!!. It's got everything: Story, Mystery, Drama, Romance and above all love struck Jinshi-sama gushing over detective maomao episode after episode! Now in all seriousness it's actually a really good series. Never did I imagine myself getting so invested in this series. I’m so glad I gave it a go. The way the story unfolds and how everything ties together in the bigger picture is incredibly well thought out. Itactually makes you pause and go “Oh, you’re kidding—so that’s why they did that, and then the other person was their accomplice" and so on.
I love those moments where you actually have to think things through. And when you do, and you're able to tie it all together. There’s no greater satisfaction. Plus, the plot twists? They make it all the better.
Studio Kyoto really pulled through this season. If you thought Season 1 was good, this is going to blow your mind. So many plot points were explained, and some new ones introduced, that really make me sink into my seat and keep on watching.
The character complexity, development and backstories don’t fall short at all. And I really mean it, there are a lot of likeable and genuinely interesting characters in this series. Take Lakan for example. My guy went from “made to be hated” to “protect at all costs.” When you finally learn what he went through and why he acts the way he does, you can’t help but sympathize with him. At the end of the day, he’s just a loving father and a loving husband who made a couple of mistakes along the way.
The animation is visually stunning. There were a few sequences that genuinely made me tear up. The way the scenes were choreographed combined with the musical composition, were absolutely spot-on. It made those important moments all the more unforgettable.
Overall, it has been an incredible season and I cannot wait for S3, which by the way it's already been confirmed that there's going to be a sequel! So, hopefully we won't have to wait long. Also, I guess we’re at a point where the anime has surpassed the manga (at least the English releases). So… damn, I really need to start reading them light novels! I’m definitely going to miss my weekly dose of detective Maomao and love-struck Jinshi!!!
P.S. This is sooo PEAK
How I rank (This is just my opinion):
(Inspired by Huang-Teizan)
10 - Bendicion de Dios
9 - This is what PEAK looks like people!!
8 - Weekend killer!
7 - Good
6 - Enjoyable
5 - Either Echii or just enough to get by
4 - I'm just here to find out how it ends.
3 - Don´t bother
2 - "Are you related to Rent a Girlfriend?"
1 - "Even a Hentai has a better story than you!"
0 - Incinerate it!
iamapizza
It was pretty disappointing watching the wreckage of what was once an excellent show; gone were the mysteries, and deductions, gone were the minor drops of backstory to keep the intrigue burning. Season 2 decided to take everything good about the first, and throw it away. In its place we get reams of exposition and forced, contrived romance. It was painfully obvious that Season 2 could have remained interesting, even with the exposition dumps, if it weren't for the forced, contrived romance between the main characters. For those who enjoyed the intelligent side of Season 1, I would wholeheartedly recommend staying away, this isn't forus. Because it's pretty clear from the reviews there are two audiences for this show, and the other one won out.
At this point (in fact, at _any_ point) it's no spoiler what Jinshi's identity is, yet the mind boggles that the writer(s) considered it perfectly normal for MaoMaoSue to conveniently decide "not to think about it" repeatedly because story reasons.
In its favour though, the animation and music are quite good, but ultimately still fail to carry the corpse of what could have been something amazing.
CyberXane
This series has been enjoyable. Can be a little slow at times, but the build up is definitely worth it. The Apothecary Diaries, Season 2 continues to follow Maomao’s life as an apothecary in a country inspired by imperial China. With her advanced knowledge of medicine, she not only helps people but also ends up solving mysterious cases that others in the empire can’t. This season follows a structure similar to the first, which works well. This season also places more emphasis on Jinshi’s mysterious backstory. Just like before, many seemingly separate cases gradually connect by the end, and it’s always satisfying to piece them together.On top of that, I always enjoy the funny moments between Maomao and other characters. Maomao may be brilliant, but I love how she still reverts to a catlike state whenever she encounters something she enjoys.
The opening and ending themes are excellent, catchy enough that I could see people adding them to their anime playlists.
Overall: A great continuation of the series. If you liked Season 1, you’ll definitely enjoy Season 2.
alexisleone
One of the things I appreciate about the Apothecary Diaries is how it centers around concubines and courtesans, yet still treats its female characters with respect. These groups are often reduced to stereotypes or plot devices, but these women are written with depth and complexity. Despite living as second class citizens in a patriarchal society, many of these characters find ways to challenge the social norms placed upon them. Season 2 deepens this focus even more, showing not just individual struggles, but the strength and solidarity among women in the palace. Maomao, in particular, continues to stand out as a main character. Her unorthodox wayof thinking sets her apart from those around her, and it's what gives this series a unique voice. In this season, we see her grow even more confident, not just in her skills as an apothecary, but in her ability to read people and take calculated risks.
What surprised me most though was how invested I was in the slow burn romance. A lot of times, romance in anime can feel forced, predictable, or even cringey. However, Apothecary Diaries surprisingly handles romance with care. The chemistry between Maomao and Jinshi builds at a careful pace, and every moment between them feels meaningful. You can't help but root for them, even when the odds are stacked against them. Given their different positions in the imperial court and all the social rules that come with it, their relationship feels almost impossible, yet that's what makes it so compelling. That sense of quiet longing makes each interaction between them all the more rewarding. It's a romance that doesn't dominate the story, but adds emotional weight when it does appear.
If there's one area where the show could improve, it's in the noble family dynamics. It can be hard to keep track of who's married to whom, which families are connected, and how much influence each one holds within the court. Sometimes new characters are introduced with little context, and it takes a moment to figure out how they fit into the bigger picture. If you're familiar with cdramas you'll probably find these family structures easier to follow. While these details aren't absolutely necessary to enjoy the story, a bit more clarity could go a long way. That said, it's a small issue compared to everything else the show does so well, and season 2 builds beautifully on everything that made the first season great.
Sidarif
This season carries forward the brilliance of the first, delivering a captivating blend of mystery, drama, and well-timed twists that kept me hooked from start to finish. The way each case unfolded felt both clever and unpredictable, keeping the tension alive while still allowing for quiet, heartfelt moments. The progression of the story feels natural yet full of surprises, and the character development truly stood out—deepening my connection to the cast and making every interaction meaningful. There were moments that made me smile, moments that had me on edge, and even moments that brought me to tears 😭. While one particular character managed to earn mydislike, it only added to the richness of the experience and the emotional investment in the plot. The atmosphere, the attention to detail, and the layered storytelling all worked together to make this a beautifully crafted continuation that left a lasting impression and has me eagerly anticipating what comes next.
yasyaa
OH MY GOD, JINSHI IS SO CRAZY FOR MAOMAO! I CAN'T HANDLE IT. And Maomao... girl, please, be a little more considerate of jinshi. Every time I watch The Apothecary Diaries, I feel so stupid. My theories are always wrong, no matter how confident I am. The plot is so sharp that it makes me feel like an idiot. I CAN'T WAIT FOR SEASON 3! I can't get enough of this anime. The story, the characters, the suspense, everything is so well done. Jinshi is crazy about Maomao in some episodes, he does everything but never gets close to her, and Maomao is still sooblivious! I'm still mad at Shishui 😭 but oh well... whatever. If something more dramatic happens in Season 3, I think I'll go crazy. This anime has taken over my life HAHAHA. I keep rewatching scenes. The Apothecary Diaries is one of those anime that keeps you hooked, not just with its mystery, but also with its history, its characters... well basically the whole story will keep you hooked. I was completely engrossed, screaming at the screen every single moment. I. AM. SO. OBSESSED. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! 10/10 FOR THE APOTHECARY DIARIES 💗👑
SkyBlue1012
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 is an exceptional anime—with stunning art and a compelling narrative that surpasses the first season in depth and clarity. It skillfully resolves all the mysteries, particularly the true identities of Suirei and Loulan, bringing closure in a way that fully rewards attentive viewers. One of the standout aspects is Loulan’s character development. Although she appears to be a typical consort, her depth is astonishingly rich; behind her composed exterior lies a highly complex individual torn between duty, identity, and personal desires. This is not a lighthearted anime you can casually watch on the couch. Every scene demands critical attention. It's the kindof series that truly rewards active viewing and deep engagement.
Highly Recommended!
fantasticreading
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2: A Perfect Dose of Political Intrigue and Deeper Romance It’s rare for a series to feel like it transports you to another universe entirely, but The Apothecary Diaries has always excelled at this. With its second season, it doesn't just continue this trend—it perfects it. If Season 1 was the masterful preparation of ingredients, Season 2 is the complex, potent, and utterly intoxicating final concoction. The isolated mysteries of the Rear Palace give way to a sprawling web of political conspiracy, personal history, and a romance that has me on the edge of my seat better than most shows dedicated tothe genre. This isn't just more of a good thing; it's an evolution that solidifies this series as a modern masterpiece.
Story:
While the first season delighted in Maomao solving a string of seemingly disconnected problems, Season 2 masterfully weaves those threads into a larger, more dangerous tapestry. The story pivots from "whodunnit" to "why did they do it," diving headfirst into the treacherous politics of the imperial court. We see how small, seemingly insignificant events from the past were actually acts of careful foreshadowing for a grander, more sinister plot.
The season’s central arc, which covers Maomao's kidnapping and the conspiracy surrounding the Shi clan, is where the writing truly shines. The narrative brilliantly tells in-depth, tragic stories within the main plot, giving weight and consequence to every new mystery. New characters like the enigmatic Suirei are not just plot devices; they are fully realized individuals with heartbreaking motivations that enrich the world and raise the stakes for everyone involved. The pacing, much like Frieren, is a refreshing change of pace. It takes its time, allowing tension to build organically, making the eventual payoffs incredibly satisfying.
World & Historical Setting:
What makes the story so compelling is its rich setting, heavily inspired by Imperial China. The series offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of concubines and consorts within the gilded cage of the Rear Palace. This isn't just a backdrop; it's the engine of the plot. The rigid hierarchy, the constant struggle for the Emperor's favor, and the desperate need to produce an heir create a pressure-cooker environment where jealousy, ambition, and fear fester. The show excels at portraying the quiet desperation and hidden power plays of these women, whose luxurious lives are often balanced on a knife's edge. Every poisoning, curse, and rumor Maomao investigates is born from this unique and historically grounded struggle for survival and relevance.
Characters:
The absolute heart of this series continues to be its characters, who only become more complex and compelling.
Maomao is, simply put, one of the best protagonists in anime today. Her intelligence, pragmatism, and cynical wit remain her defining traits, yet Season 2 pushes her into situations that challenge her emotionally. Seeing her navigate not just poisons but deep-seated political and personal trauma adds incredible depth to her character. I find her incredibly refreshing and relatable; she isn't defined by tropes but by her sheer competence and unconventional, fiercely independent worldview.
And then there's Jinshi. The "will they, won't they" dynamic with Maomao moves into exhilarating new territory. This is no longer just a game of cat and mouse; real emotions are on the line, and their relationship finally begins to move forward in tangible ways. The slow burn becomes a captivating fire, with moments of vulnerability and genuine connection that feel earned and incredibly impactful. Their romance is a masterclass in subtlety and development.
Art & Sound:
Visually, this season is a feast. Studios TOHO Animation and OLM have done an amazing job, elevating the already beautiful art of Season 1. The use of color is particularly brilliant, shifting from the vibrant, jeweled tones of the Rear Palace to darker, more muted palettes that reflect the growing political tension. The animation feels more dynamic, especially during moments of high drama, conveying a sense of urgency and danger.
The banger OST is the final piece that completes the immersive experience. The score is perfectly attuned to the show's emotional core, swelling during moments of revelation and retreating to a haunting melody during its most tragic scenes. It’s an auditory journey that works in perfect harmony with the visuals and narrative.
Enjoyment & Overall:
I rate The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 a perfect 10 out of 10. It takes everything that made the first season great and expands upon it, delivering a richer, more complex, and emotionally resonant story. The mysteries are more intricate, the political landscape is fascinating, and the character development is phenomenal. It has a unique maturity, trusting its audience to appreciate a slow-building plot and complex character motivations without needing to rely on cheap tricks or fan service.
If you enjoyed the first season, Season 2 will blow you away. It is a highly recommended, must-watch series that proves that intelligent, character-driven storytelling is still king.
SprinkleSpronkle
The Apothecary Diaries is such a gem of an anime. Season 1 hooked me, but Season 2 left me begging for more—so much so that I picked up the light novel because I couldn’t let the story end there (highly recommend). I’m eagerly awaiting the next season and can’t wait to see how the story continues to develop. What really makes this series shine is the cast of characters. Every one of them feels distinct and entertaining, from side characters to leads. Maomao is such a unique protagonist: unfazed, logical, and calm even in the most intense moments. Right when you think she’s finally caught onto Jinshi’sfeelings, her inner monologue will take a complete u-turn, leaving you to wonder—is she truly that oblivious, in denial, or just too detached to let herself care? That uncertainty adds so much intrigue to their relationship. Still, she can be frustrating—there are moments when Jinshi lays his heart bare and she either misses it or brushes it off, and my heart breaks for him. But that slow-burn tension is exactly what makes their dynamic so addictive.
Jinshi, meanwhile, is a delight. On the surface he’s a flamboyant, dramatic goofball, but he’s far from clueless. What makes him so endearing is how honest he is with himself about his feelings (pretty early on), even if no one else seems to notice. That mix of charm, comedy, and genuine vulnerability keeps him from ever being just a one-note “pretty boy” character. His openness against Maomao’s detachment creates a magnetic push-and-pull energy. Their interactions (with Gaoshun constantly serving as the ultimate silent wingman) keep things playful, even while the story dives into serious mystery and court intrigue.
Beyond the characters, the anime balances tone beautifully. The chibi comedy moments are perfectly timed, breaking up the darker, heavier dialogue without ever cheapening it. Add in the tangled web of bloodlines, hidden identities, and family intricacies, and you’re constantly kept on your toes while still being entertained. And while the messy family trees and palace politics can get confusing, that’s part of the fun—the best mysteries always demand a little extra untangling.
On the production side, it’s gorgeous to look at. The colorful, detailed animation is eye-catching and fits the lavish palace setting perfectly. The music is another standout—each OP is stunning and ridiculously catchy, the kind that get stuck in your head for days.
Overall, The Apothecary Diaries is clever, funny, and visually striking. It hooks you with mystery but makes you stay for its unforgettable characters and their ever-evolving dynamics.
