I didn’t know I needed a cozy mystery in my life but this book seriously hit the spot!
This was my first time reading a book by a Filipino author, and I loved finding myself immersed in the culture from the beginning of the story. Manansala truly captured my heart with her writing and characters.
This story was filled with Filipino culture. I just loved the traditions and family dynamics! I really love reading about families like this - the ones with strong relationships and support systems. These families always have the good with the bad, and that made the characters and storyline real.
As for the mystery…What an incredible whodunnit - so many potential suspects and incompetent detectives I have to say, I could’ve sworn I had it figured out most of the book! But the twists rolled in here and there, and I was taken by surprise with the ending. I love twists that just make perfect sense but aren’t obvious!
My favorite part in this book has to be the food! Is anyone really surprised!?! I just love how Manansala incorporated all the Filipino dishes and cooking into her story. There really wasn’t a time when I didn’t find myself craving the food as I read (already Googled recipes). I’m a huge dessert gal, so Lila’s love for desserts and the scenes where she would bake were just excellent!
Overall, I really enjoyed binge reading this book, and I’m so glad it is a series, because I need to know what happens next in Lila’s life.
Thank you Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for the gifted copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
