The Apothecary Diaries - LN 13

The Apothecary Diaries Volume 13 by Natsu Hyuuga, Illustrations by Touko Shino. Translated by Kevin Steinbach. Published by J-Novel Club.

I am literally so sad that I'm caught up to this series...

Volume 13 is a short story volume, and it's almost entirely from the point of view of the other characters. Since the main crew has been gone for a year, this volume catches readers up with Lahan, Yao, En'en, and even her sisters back at the brothel like Meimei and Joka. Even though it's not explored in relation to Maomao, there does seem to be some plot moving regarding a "meeting of the clans" that will happen in the next book.

There's an ongoing theme of relationships in this book. Meimei found "someone" to buy out her contract. Joka is listless, and is aware that she needs to accomplish the same thing. Lahan is living out other mens' dreams of a harem rom-com, to hilarious effect. Lahan's Brother curses Lahan for his good luck, while thinking about his own marriage prospects. Yao has a crush on the most un-eligible eligible bachelor imaginable. There's of course the drama between Basen and Lishu, still unresolved but with Maamei's intervention, more developments are promised to come. And of course, Jinshi and Maomao almost move too quickly, which is rare for the two. 

I would have thought this book was published on Valentine's day (it did release on February 2023 in Japan). But of course, there's intrigue and a murder to solve. 

I enjoyed the breather this volume offered, and it offered great insights into the other characters. It also felt fresh seeing the effect that Maomao has had on other people. While she thinks so humbly of herself, others can (rightfully) see the effort she puts in, and her true strengths.

Now begins the painful wait until the next volume. Volume 14 is being published at the end of May, and Volume 15 will take another couple months to get released. After that, J-novel Club will be completely caught up to the Japanese volumes (yay?). 

Hyuuga-sensei, please write faster! ლ(¯ロ¯"ლ)