Fans of The Apothecary Diaries have a compelling reason to celebrate—Volume 16 is set to launch on May 30, 2025, delivering a tense, emotional mystery centered on a deadly outbreak of smallpox. While the anime’s second season continues to captivate with palace politics and courtly intrigue, the newest novel volume broadens the horizon with a story rooted in epidemic fear, medical ethics, and Maomao’s sharp intellect. Whether you’re a dedicated reader or an anime-only viewer, this volume promises to deepen your understanding of the series’ world, characters, and stakes—without leaving you behind.
Maomao Faces a New Threat: A Smallpox Outbreak
In the upcoming 16th volume of The Apothecary Diaries, Maomao’s calm routine is shattered by the emergence of a dreaded illness: smallpox. The story picks up shortly after the successful surgery on the emperor—a major event from the previous volume—and now shifts to a distant village where a new, terrifying challenge awaits. Reports of blistering skin and high fever begin circulating, and Maomao’s instincts as a skilled apothecary are immediately on high alert.
Behind the Pages: Who’s Responsible for the New Volume?
The novel is penned by Natsu Hyuuga, with illustrations by Touko Shino. Volume 16 continues the acclaimed run of the series, which has surpassed 40 million copies in circulation. As always, it is published by Imagica Infos and distributed by Shufunotomo. The book carries the signature balance of suspense, science, and slow-burn character development that fans have come to love.
What Makes Volume 16 Unique?
Unlike previous palace-focused mysteries, this volume widens its scope. The village setting provides a stark contrast to the usual glittering court, and the smallpox threat introduces real-world stakes. It’s no longer just about royal secrets—it’s about survival, trust, and how communities respond to crisis. Maomao must rely not only on her intellect but also her empathy, making for one of the most human stories in the series to date.
When and Where Can You Get It?
Volume 16 officially hits shelves on May 30, 2025. Fans can preorder now through major platforms like Amazon and other Japanese online bookstores. A special edition is also available, featuring a beautifully bound scriptbook of the entire first season of the anime, spanning 400 pages in hardcover format. The scriptbook offers a deeper look into the adaptation process and is only available in physical format.
How Does It Tie into the Anime?
While the anime’s second season continues to explore palace intrigues and Maomao’s gradual rise in influence, the events of Volume 16 occur in a separate timeline but enrich the broader narrative. Readers who follow both the anime and the novels will appreciate the contrast between the visual storytelling on screen and the psychological depth offered in the novel. This volume may not be adapted soon, making it a must-read for those hungry for more content.
Why the Smallpox Arc Matters
More than just a historical plot device, the smallpox epidemic arc reflects modern concerns around disease, misinformation, and social isolation. Post-pandemic readers may find eerie parallels between Maomao’s challenges and recent global events. This lends the story a sobering realism, without sacrificing its core charm—Maomao’s unwavering curiosity and courage in the face of the unknown.
Get Ready for a Powerful Chapter in Maomao’s Journey
Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Apothecary Diaries or someone who just started watching the anime, Volume 16 is not to be missed. Dive into a story filled with danger, compassion, and brilliant deductions as Maomao confronts a deadly epidemic with nothing but her wits and grit. Preorder your copy today—and if you’re a collector, be sure to grab the limited edition with the complete anime scriptbook.
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Stay up to date with all things Maomao via the official anime website and Hero Bunko’s special feature page.
©日向夏／イマジカインフォス イラスト：しのとうこ
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