The Apothecary Diaries 01 (Manga)

For our Travelling Through Books summer display, Im recommending The Apothecary Diaries by Natsu Hyuugaa smart, textured journey into the heart of ancient Chinas imperial court. At its center is Maomao, a sharp-tongued, fiercely intelligent apothecary who quietly unravels palace intrigues with wit and science, she's the kind of heroine you root for instantly. Its like reading the secret diary of a travelling court historian with a dash of sarcasm and herbal poison. The setting is rich, the mysteries are juicy, transporting you to a different time and place with each page, and Maomao is one of the strongest, most refreshingly female leads Ive read in ages. A perfect escape for long, sun-soaked afternoons.