The Storyline
Get ready to be captivated by the story of Lila Macapagal, a young Filipina-American who has returned to her hometown in the Philippines to help her Tita Rosie run their family restaurant. The restaurant, called “Aunty Rosie’s Kitchen,” is famous for its delicious adobo, a traditional Filipino dish of meat cooked in soy sauce and vinegar.
However, Lila’s homecoming is not as sweet as she had hoped. Her ex-boyfriend, Derek Winter, is the new owner of the restaurant next door, and he is determined to put Aunty Rosie’s Kitchen out of business. To make matters worse, a food critic dies after eating at their restaurant, and Lila becomes the prime suspect. With the help of her best friend Adeena and her handsome new neighbor, Lila sets out to clear her name and save the restaurant from bankruptcy.
The Characters
Lila Macapagal is a relatable and dynamic protagonist who will make you laugh and root for her throughout the series. Adeena is her sassy and loyal best friend who always has Lila’s back. Derek Winter is the charming but conniving ex-boyfriend who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. And the rest of the supporting cast, including Tita Rosie and the quirky townspeople, add depth and humor to the story.
The Food
If you’re a foodie, you will love the descriptions of the mouth-watering dishes in this series. From the classic adobo to the unconventional Filipino fusion cuisine, Arsenic and Adobo will make you hungry and curious about Filipino cuisine.
The Mystery
The mystery in Arsenic and Adobo is well-crafted and will keep you guessing until the end. The series is not just about food and romance, but also about murder and deception. Each book in the series focuses on a different murder case, but the characters and their relationships evolve throughout the series.
The Romance
Of course, no cozy mystery series is complete without a little bit of romance. Lila’s love life is complicated, but her chemistry with her new neighbor, Chef Julian, is undeniable. The slow-burn romance between Lila and Julian adds another layer of sweetness to the series.
The Writing Style
The writing style in Arsenic and Adobo is relaxed and accessible, making it a perfect read for a lazy weekend or a beach vacation. The author, Mia P. Manansala, seamlessly weaves together humor, romance, and mystery in a delightful and engaging way.
The Diversity
Arsenic and Adobo is a refreshing addition to the cozy mystery genre because of its diverse cast of characters and unique setting in the Philippines. The series offers a glimpse into Filipino culture and cuisine, and it celebrates the beauty of diversity.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery series that will make you laugh, swoon, and crave Filipino food, Arsenic and Adobo is the perfect choice. With its relatable characters, delicious food descriptions, and compelling mystery, this series is a must-read for cozy mystery fans and foodies alike.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of Arsenic and Adobo and join Lila on her delicious and deadly adventures!