Arsenic and Adobo

Book Summary

“Arsenic and Adobo” is a delectable cozy mystery that follows the adventures of Lila Macapagal, a talented Filipino-American chef who returns to her small hometown of Shady Palms, Illinois, after a disastrous breakup. Lila hopes to revitalize her life by helping her Tita Rosie run her struggling restaurant, but things take a dark turn when a notorious food critic drops dead after dining at the family’s eatery. As Lila becomes the prime suspect in the murder investigation, she takes it upon herself to uncover the truth and clear her name. With the support of her quirky family, loyal friends, and a dash of culinary creativity, Lila embarks on a thrilling journey to expose the real killer and save her family’s restaurant. Manansala masterfully combines elements of mystery, romance, and mouthwatering Filipino cuisine in this engaging novel. The story is brimming with colorful characters, witty banter, and a delightful mix of suspense and humor that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. “Arsenic and Adobo” is not just a whodunit; it’s a celebration of family, love, and the power of food to bring people together.

Author Intro

Mia P. Manansala

Mia P. Manansala is an author known for her delightful and humorous mystery novels. She has a talent for infusing her stories with a perfect blend of cozy mystery elements, vibrant Filipino culture, and mouthwatering food descriptions. As a Filipino-American writer, Manansala brings her own unique perspective and cultural background to her storytelling, creating a refreshing and diverse reading experience. Born and raised in the Philippines, Manansala moved to the United States as a teenager and settled in Chicago, which serves as the backdrop for many of her novels. She draws inspiration from her own Filipino heritage and weaves it seamlessly into her stories, showcasing the rich tapestry of Filipino traditions, family dynamics, and mouthwatering cuisine. Her debut novel, “Arsenic and Adobo”, has garnered critical acclaim and widespread praise for its engaging plot, lovable characters, and charming setting. Manansala’s writing style is characterized by a perfect balance of humor, suspense, and heartwarming moments, making her books a delightful reading experience for fans of cozy mysteries and diverse voices in literature.

Book Reviews

“Arsenic and Adobo” is a delightful and refreshing cozy mystery that stands out from the crowd. Mia P. Manansala crafts a captivating story filled with humor, heart, and delectable Filipino cuisine. The characters are relatable, lovable, and diverse, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Manansala effortlessly blends the mystery elements with cultural insights, making this a truly immersive and entertaining reading experience.

In “Arsenic and Adobo”, Mia P. Manansala serves up a delectable cozy mystery with a Filipino twist. The story is brimming with mouthwatering descriptions of traditional Filipino dishes that will leave readers craving more. The charming small-town setting and vibrant cast of characters create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the cleverly woven mystery keeps readers guessing until the very end. Manansala’s skillful storytelling and witty writing style make this book a delightful treat for fans of cozy mysteries.

Mia P. Manansala’s “Arsenic and Adobo” is a delightful combination of food, family, and mystery. The author effortlessly transports readers into the heart of a small-town Filipino community, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the culture. The characters are vibrant and relatable, and the culinary backdrop adds an extra layer of richness to the story. Manansala’s clever plot twists and cleverly concealed clues make this a page-turning cozy mystery that is both entertaining and satisfying.

“Arsenic and Adobo” is a scrumptious and entertaining cozy mystery that introduces readers to the delightful world of Lila Macapagal. Mia P. Manansala’s writing is infused with charm, humor, and a genuine love for Filipino culture. The engaging plot keeps readers hooked from start to finish, while the well-developed characters add depth and authenticity to the story. With its delightful blend of mystery, romance, and mouthwatering food descriptions, this book is a delectable treat for cozy mystery lovers.

Best Lines

  • “Food could make or break a relationship. It could build bridges or burn them, resurrect the dead or poison the living.”
  • “Cooking is an act of love. And it doesn’t matter if you’re making a five-course meal or a simple bowl of adobo. It’s the care and intention you put into it that matters.”
  • “In the kitchen, life made sense. No matter how dire things were, the world always seemed a little bit brighter with a bowl of sizzling pancit in front of you.”
  • “Family isn’t just the people you’re born into—it’s also the people you choose to surround yourself with, the ones who stand by you no matter what.”

Leave A Comment

you might also like