I am currently still on the fence and the fence is pointy and uncomfortable to sit on forever
^^ Okay, listen. Imagine a world where ancient court politics, medical mysteries, and a smart, independent, apothecary girl who could outwit a room full of scheming nobles all collide — that's The Apothecary Diaries.
You’re not just watching palace drama; you’re solving poisonings, navigating the intrigue of the imperial court, and digging through secrets.
In a world similar to ancient china, Maomao is kidnapped and sold into the Emperor's harem. The story follows Maomao, our sharp-witted apothecary who gets sold off(kidnapped) to the imperial court with a sarcastic edge and a fascination with poisons, who uses her knowledge to solve poisoning and mysterious cases within the palace. And in doing so catches the eye of Jinshi - beautiful and mysterious official with sway.
The draw of the series is its basically part detective show, part character drama. And Maomao is trying her best to NOT get caught up in knowing too much, she just wants to try and enjoy different poisons.
Every element is deeply intertwined with each other and creating a complex yet real feeling world, where murder and conflict lurk around each corner.
What makes it stand out is how it blends historical drama, (and it doesn't shy away from historical topics like the imperial harem and concubines etc) with detective-style storytelling, all while avoiding typical tropes. Also all the characters have nice depth to them which is really nice.
Still on the fence? That thing is spiky. Get off it. Sit on a throne of secrets and poisons. Watch it!