If you loved
The Apothecary Diaries
Series · 2023
You loved The Apothecary Diaries for the way it centers a sharp-witted outsider using her unique skills to navigate complex social hierarchies.
Books on the same thread
The Maid: A Novel
Nita Prose · Book · 2022
Explores: Neurodiversity, Social Awkwardness, Found Family.
Like the protagonist of The Apothecary Diaries, Molly is a singular, observant heroine who navigates a rigid environment by relying on her own unconventional perspective to solve a puzzling mystery.
A Master of Djinn
P. Djèlí Clark · Book · 2021
Explores: Djinn, Egyptian Mythology, Supernatural Investigation.
Fatma el-Sha’arawi mirrors the investigative brilliance seen in The Apothecary Diaries, using her professional expertise to untangle dangerous political webs and supernatural mysteries within a vibrant, historical court setting.
The Midwife's Apprentice
Karen Cushman · Book · 1995
Explores: Coming-of-age, Apprenticeship, Self-discovery.
Much like Maomao in The Apothecary Diaries, the lead in this story finds her footing through a demanding apprenticeship, proving that intelligence and grit can elevate a lowly servant.
The Housemaid
Freida McFadden · Book · 2022
Shares a thread with The Apothecary Diaries: Class Differences.
If the class dynamics and hidden secrets of the palace in The Apothecary Diaries kept you hooked, you will appreciate this intense look at a domestic environment defined by power.
Films on the same thread
The Tale of The Princess Kaguya
Film · 2013
Explores: Nature versus society, Transience of life, Parental devotion.
This story shares the historical atmosphere and focus on a young woman’s agency found in The Apothecary Diaries, as the protagonist struggles to define her own path amidst societal expectations.
Kiki's Delivery Service
Hayao Miyazaki · Film · 1989
Explores: Finding your place, Self-discovery, Female empowerment.
Kiki’s journey of finding her place in a new city through her specialized talent echoes the self-reliant spirit of Maomao as she navigates the palace in The Apothecary Diaries.
Suzume
Makoto Shinkai · Film · 2022
Explores: Grief and Loss, Environmentalism, Fate vs. Free Will.
Suzume’s proactive quest to resolve a major crisis reflects the same determination and problem-solving drive that makes the medical mysteries in The Apothecary Diaries so compelling to watch.
The Garden of Words
Makoto Shinkai · Film · 2013
Explores: Age Gap Romance, Teacher-Student Relationship, Existential Angst.
The quiet, observant connection between the leads mirrors the subtle, intellectual bond between Maomao and Jinshi in The Apothecary Diaries, set against a backdrop of careful, meaningful dialogue.
Podcasts on the same thread
Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark
Turning Point USA · Podcast · 2026
Explores: spiritual healing, cultural critique, natural remedies.
Those fascinated by the medicinal knowledge and restorative practices in The Apothecary Diaries will appreciate this exploration of how natural remedies and historical insights address modern challenges.
CounterClock
Audiochuck · Podcast · 2025
Shares a thread with The Apothecary Diaries: historical mystery.
The methodical, forensic approach to uncovering the truth in this podcast series parallels the investigative rigor Maomao applies to the medical conundrums found throughout The Apothecary Diaries.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is The Apothecary Diaries about a doctor?
The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, a young woman trained by her apothecary father. While she begins as a lowly servant in the emperor's palace, she utilizes her medical knowledge to solve mysterious illnesses affecting the imperial heirs and gains recognition for her skills.
Who is the main character in The Apothecary Diaries?
The main character of The Apothecary Diaries is Maomao. Originally living a peaceful life with her father, she is sold into service at the imperial palace. She eventually catches the attention of a palace official named Jinshi, who promotes her for her talent in solving medical mysteries.
Does The Apothecary Diaries take place in a palace?
Yes, The Apothecary Diaries is set within the emperor's palace. Maomao is sold there as a lowly servant, but she eventually moves up in rank after demonstrating her ability to cure the imperial heirs who have fallen ill.
What does Maomao do in The Apothecary Diaries?
In The Apothecary Diaries, Maomao uses her expertise as an apothecary to investigate and solve medical mysteries. After she steps in to find a cure for sick imperial heirs, she is promoted by the palace official Jinshi and begins making a name for herself within the royal court.