Who publishes The Apothecary Diaries in English?

Who publishes The Apothecary Diaries in English? The official English publisher of The Apothecary Diaries light novel series is Square Enix Manga & Books, which handles the North American distribution and localization of this popular Japanese mystery series.

Square Enix's English Publication

Square Enix Manga & Books began publishing The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) in English translation starting in December 2020. The company has been steadily releasing volumes of Natsu Hyuuga's compelling mystery series, which follows the adventures of Maomao, a young pharmacist working in the imperial palace.

Translation and Localization Quality

The English translation maintains the intricate details of court intrigue and medical knowledge that make the series so engaging. Square Enix has worked to preserve the cultural nuances while making the content accessible to English-speaking readers, particularly those interested in historical mystery and palace drama.

Availability and Format

Square Enix publishes The Apothecary Diaries in both physical paperback and digital formats. The books are widely available through major retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and digital platforms like ComiXology and Kindle. Each volume typically retails for around $13-15 for paperback editions.

Manga vs. Light Novel

It's important to note that while Square Enix publishes the light novel series, the manga adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries is published by different companies depending on the version. The original light novels provide the most comprehensive story experience with detailed internal monologues and world-building.

Release Schedule

Square Enix has maintained a relatively consistent release schedule, typically publishing new volumes every 3-4 months. As of 2024, multiple volumes are available in English, with more planned for future release.

For fans interested in following Maomao's detective work in the imperial court, Square Enix's English editions offer an excellent entry point into this captivating series. Check your local bookstore or online retailer for the latest available volumes.