272 pages; softcover.

Maomao leads an unassuming life with her apothecary father, but kidnappers whisk her away to a world of consorts and serving women in the empire’s rear palace. Sold into imperial servitude, the girl keeps her quick wit, sharp mind, and medical knowledge a secret. But the head eunuch, Jinshi, shatters Maomao’s low profile when she catches his eye. He perceives her true skills and makes her a lady-in-waiting to the rear palace’s top consort. Can Maomao quietly pass her term as her lady’s food tester, or will observational prowess and curiosity push her into danger as she uncovers turmoil at court?