What do you think?
Rate this book
Noodle Shop Mystery #12
Crime Rangoon
It's stranger than fiction when Lana Lee investigates a murder that mimics the plot of a bestselling mystery, working together with her detective boyfriend for the first time ever.
Cindy Kwan, owner of Asia Village’s bookshop, The Modern Scroll, is privileged to host best-selling author, Charlene Chan for a signing in honor of the writer’s latest book, The Mystery of General Tso.
Lana Lee is equally excited for the appearance of her favorite author and even more so when Cindy asks her to be Charlene’s “handler” for the event. Taking her duties very seriously, Lana stays by the side of the prominent author to assist in anything that she might need.
With a line out the door and stretched through the plaza, Cindy is overjoyed at what a success this is for her shop. But, unfortunately for Cindy, her success comes with a price: the author is found dead in the mystery aisle, clutching a copy of her own book. Coincidentally the book’s plot matches the details of the murder.
Lana’s boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, is charged with leading the case investigation, but finds himself overwhelmed when he realizes just how much of the book series is mimicked in reality. For the first time in their relationship, Adam calls on Lana to partner up with him to help solve the case. The couple must work through the novel to outwit the murderer, stay one step ahead, and beat the die-hard fan to the last chapter.
Cindy Kwan, owner of Asia Village’s bookshop, The Modern Scroll, is privileged to host best-selling author, Charlene Chan for a signing in honor of the writer’s latest book, The Mystery of General Tso.
Lana Lee is equally excited for the appearance of her favorite author and even more so when Cindy asks her to be Charlene’s “handler” for the event. Taking her duties very seriously, Lana stays by the side of the prominent author to assist in anything that she might need.
With a line out the door and stretched through the plaza, Cindy is overjoyed at what a success this is for her shop. But, unfortunately for Cindy, her success comes with a price: the author is found dead in the mystery aisle, clutching a copy of her own book. Coincidentally the book’s plot matches the details of the murder.
Lana’s boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, is charged with leading the case investigation, but finds himself overwhelmed when he realizes just how much of the book series is mimicked in reality. For the first time in their relationship, Adam calls on Lana to partner up with him to help solve the case. The couple must work through the novel to outwit the murderer, stay one step ahead, and beat the die-hard fan to the last chapter.
Audible Audio
First published December 30, 2025
107 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
Vivien Chien
23 books1,679 followersVivien Chien first started writing simple stories about adventures with her classmates when she was in elementary school. As she grew up, her love of books and the written word increased, leading to the attempt of her first novel at age 16. After many struggled beginnings and several different genres, she found her passion in the mystery world.
When she's not writing, she can be found frolicking in the bookstore or searching for her next bowl of noodles. She has a soft spot for doughnuts, a healthy love for coffee, and an extreme need to participate in random acts of crafting.
She currently lives in Cleveland where she is hard at work on the fifth book in her Noodle Shop series, and writes side-by-side with her toy fox terrier.
When she's not writing, she can be found frolicking in the bookstore or searching for her next bowl of noodles. She has a soft spot for doughnuts, a healthy love for coffee, and an extreme need to participate in random acts of crafting.
She currently lives in Cleveland where she is hard at work on the fifth book in her Noodle Shop series, and writes side-by-side with her toy fox terrier.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
January 4, 2026
Hello again, Asia Village! This 12th addition to the Noodle House series has Lana Lee helping out the village bookstore with an author event. Charlene Chan is a popular mystery writer, but not everyone is a fan. A verbal confrontation comes early, but she dismisses it. Lana, Megan, and Kimmy are there to make sure the event runs smoothly.
Smoothly is just an adverb of hope as the author is found dead. Lana’s police officer boyfriend trusts her to help out this time rather than telling her to not meddle in the investigation.
There are a lot of clues to the culprit and it’s easy to figure out, but it’s still entertaining getting to the conclusion. I liked the bookstore setting and the local book club in attendance. Recommended to readers of the Noodle House series and those that need a cozy fix.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur for an early copy.
Smoothly is just an adverb of hope as the author is found dead. Lana’s police officer boyfriend trusts her to help out this time rather than telling her to not meddle in the investigation.
There are a lot of clues to the culprit and it’s easy to figure out, but it’s still entertaining getting to the conclusion. I liked the bookstore setting and the local book club in attendance. Recommended to readers of the Noodle House series and those that need a cozy fix.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur for an early copy.
October 5, 2025
Trouble seems to follow Lana Lee. She is helping the owner of Asia Village's bookstore at an author signing when the author, Charlene, is murdered. Surprisingly, Lana's boyfriend the cop asks for her help with the case, and she, Megan, and Kimmy (who is incredibly annoying) are eager to help. It wasn't too hard to guess the murderer, and it's hard to imagine a more dangerous place than this small area in Ohio which has seen so many murders, all of which Lana has solved (and survived)--three and a half stars. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.
February 1, 2026
This was my first Vivien Chien, but it will not be my last.
I loved this band of merry amateur sleuths.
While this is book 12 in a cozy mystery series, it can 100% be read as a stand alone.
I liked the group of people in the small area Chien has created called Asia Village.
So many interesting shops and characters running said shops.
I will definitely be checking out the rest of the series now.
Much love to NetGalley & St. Martin's Press for my copy.
I loved this band of merry amateur sleuths.
While this is book 12 in a cozy mystery series, it can 100% be read as a stand alone.
I liked the group of people in the small area Chien has created called Asia Village.
So many interesting shops and characters running said shops.
I will definitely be checking out the rest of the series now.
Much love to NetGalley & St. Martin's Press for my copy.
2025
December 2, 2025ANHPI TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
October 6, 2025
Number twelve in the Noodle Shop Mystery series brings another murder for Lana to solve and this time it's her favorite author. I like this series a lot, but this one was off. It felt like the entire book was a series of Lana telling other people about what had just happened. I mean, it's not the details of what she has to tell them written out each time, so it isn't repetitive in that way, but we do get Lana saying she's got to fill someone in about something constantly and that usually takes at least a paragraph each time to say that.
January 2, 2026
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Best-selling author Charlene Chan will be signing her latest book, The Mystery of General Tso, at The Modern Scroll, the bookshop at Asia Village. Ms. Chan happens to be Lana Lee’s favorite author. She is thrilled that bookshop owner Cindy Kwan has asked her to be the author’s “handler” for her signing.
The day of the event arrives, and it’s a huge success. Then, Charlene Chan is found dead, holding her own book, in the mystery aisle. Her death seems to mimic the plot of the book she now holds. Detective Adam Trudeau, Lana’s boyfriend, knows she could really help him with the case. Lana, Kimmy, and Megan are surprised when he asks for her help, and are totally on board to help her get the information he needs, but the killer isn’t making it easy. They all team up to throw the book at the person who cut so many chapters out of the bestselling author’s life.
I totally agree with Lana Lee in that “Bookstores are the happiest places on earth”. I was moved by the entire first paragraph of the book, and that Ms. Chien used an author’s work as the basis of her murder was brilliant, making Crime Rangoon my new favorite book in this series.
Lana’s love of reading and books truly shines in this story, as does the friendship she has formed with bookshop owner Cindy Kwan. She really goes the extra mile to help her through the traumatic event. Megan isn’t acting like herself, but we find out she has a very good reason. She still helps Lana work through the clues of the case. Kimmy is over-the-top, as usual, and determined not to be left out of anything. She inserts herself into the investigation any way she can, which upsets her boyfriend, Peter. I loved that Adam realized what an asset Lana can be and figured out ways to use her knowledge and instincts while keeping his chief in the dark. The Mahjong Matrons are always fun and ready to share any local gossip. Ms. Chien also introduces a new character who was a mystery for most of the book, but when she revealed what she was dealing with, she truly touched my heart.
This book was so well-plotted, entwining the mystery with purposeful subplots. The pacing was perfect, and the theme was fabulous. There was a crowd of suspects; the store was definitely over the fire limit. A horrible scene placed a huge target on one person, but there were other sketchy individuals present. Lana was all in trying to find connections and motives, and I was totally entertained following along. Then there was an epic twist, and Lana had her A-ha moment too late as Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’ serenaded her from the radio. I was surprised, too, and a little aggravated with myself, but this was a story I was totally caught up in without turning on my inner detective.
Crime Rangoon has a treasure trove of cozy elements. Wonderful, genuine, true-to-life characters, a unique setting at the Asia Village, humor, and romance balanced flawlessly with a marvelously written mystery that flowed so well it was impossible to put down. What a fantastic way to wrap up 2025!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Vivien Chien, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Best-selling author Charlene Chan will be signing her latest book, The Mystery of General Tso, at The Modern Scroll, the bookshop at Asia Village. Ms. Chan happens to be Lana Lee’s favorite author. She is thrilled that bookshop owner Cindy Kwan has asked her to be the author’s “handler” for her signing.
The day of the event arrives, and it’s a huge success. Then, Charlene Chan is found dead, holding her own book, in the mystery aisle. Her death seems to mimic the plot of the book she now holds. Detective Adam Trudeau, Lana’s boyfriend, knows she could really help him with the case. Lana, Kimmy, and Megan are surprised when he asks for her help, and are totally on board to help her get the information he needs, but the killer isn’t making it easy. They all team up to throw the book at the person who cut so many chapters out of the bestselling author’s life.
I totally agree with Lana Lee in that “Bookstores are the happiest places on earth”. I was moved by the entire first paragraph of the book, and that Ms. Chien used an author’s work as the basis of her murder was brilliant, making Crime Rangoon my new favorite book in this series.
Lana’s love of reading and books truly shines in this story, as does the friendship she has formed with bookshop owner Cindy Kwan. She really goes the extra mile to help her through the traumatic event. Megan isn’t acting like herself, but we find out she has a very good reason. She still helps Lana work through the clues of the case. Kimmy is over-the-top, as usual, and determined not to be left out of anything. She inserts herself into the investigation any way she can, which upsets her boyfriend, Peter. I loved that Adam realized what an asset Lana can be and figured out ways to use her knowledge and instincts while keeping his chief in the dark. The Mahjong Matrons are always fun and ready to share any local gossip. Ms. Chien also introduces a new character who was a mystery for most of the book, but when she revealed what she was dealing with, she truly touched my heart.
This book was so well-plotted, entwining the mystery with purposeful subplots. The pacing was perfect, and the theme was fabulous. There was a crowd of suspects; the store was definitely over the fire limit. A horrible scene placed a huge target on one person, but there were other sketchy individuals present. Lana was all in trying to find connections and motives, and I was totally entertained following along. Then there was an epic twist, and Lana had her A-ha moment too late as Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’ serenaded her from the radio. I was surprised, too, and a little aggravated with myself, but this was a story I was totally caught up in without turning on my inner detective.
Crime Rangoon has a treasure trove of cozy elements. Wonderful, genuine, true-to-life characters, a unique setting at the Asia Village, humor, and romance balanced flawlessly with a marvelously written mystery that flowed so well it was impossible to put down. What a fantastic way to wrap up 2025!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Vivien Chien, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
February 5, 2026
3.5 stars
January 1, 2026
I love this series so much and this book made me so happy to see all of my favorite characters working together. Even Peters helps facilitate the investigation in his own way (though don't remind him!) I love that Lana is a huge book lover and has the exciting opportunity to help host and meet her favorite author. It is something so many book lovers can relate to and the excitement of the event jumps off the page. I also really love that Lana has embraced her multitudes and that she can enjoy running her family's noodle shop business AND sleuth around with her friends. And the fact that her detective boyfriend not only accepts her, but encourages her made me smile so much. No spoilers, but what a fun set up for a mystery that has an extra edge of possible foreshadowing that keeps us all on our toes (readers and Lana). Also seeing more and learning more about Megan was lovely and I hope that continues! I was shocked by the ending and how it all came together. I had so much fun reading this!
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC; my thoughts and review are my own.
January 20, 2026
Lana Lee, manager of her family's Noodle restaurant, looks forward to seeing her favorite author at the Mondern Scroll in Asia Village. The Asia Village business owners are fascinating to read about again. As Lana begins to help out at the bookstore, all hell breaks loose when Lana's favorite author is murdered. I enjoy reading books, so I was intrigued by the plot. A fast-paced, action-packed read. The Mahjong Matrons are my favorite noisy women in the whole series.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this series. This was a honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this series. This was a honest review.
January 4, 2026
This is probably one of my favorite books in the Noodle Shop Mysteries. The storyline was very captivating and I did not want to stop reading. I wanted to find out who did and why.
Vivien Chien is an amazing author and I can't wait to see what new adventure she comes up with for Lana.
Vivien Chien is an amazing author and I can't wait to see what new adventure she comes up with for Lana.
January 26, 2026
This was my first book by Vivien Chien and, therefore, my first book in this series. I felt like I was able to meet and understand all of the characters presented, events without having read the other books. This was a light, fun, murder mystery.
Despite the light, fun vibe of the book, I genuinely struggled to connect with the characters. I thought Lana was young, around 18 or 20, based on how she acted and things she said. I was super surprised to learn she was in her 30s. Normally, I love an fmc at that age. There seemed to be a genuine hate for the character of Kimmy in how she was presented and how other characters dealt with her. Since this was my first book in the series, I was surprised by the negativity that arose every time she appeared on the page. Maybe context clues from the other books would explain this, as I was confused and not actually disliking that character myself.
I enjoyed seeing Lana investigate despite not always understanding her reasoning for her actions. I figured out the killer, like it was genuinely the only person who made sense, and I was incredibly frustrated with how Lana handled that character. If I explained myself, though, it would be a huge spoiler, unfortunately.
This was a fun, light mystery. I don't think this one specifically was for me, but I would be interested in trying earlier books in the series. A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher.
Despite the light, fun vibe of the book, I genuinely struggled to connect with the characters. I thought Lana was young, around 18 or 20, based on how she acted and things she said. I was super surprised to learn she was in her 30s. Normally, I love an fmc at that age. There seemed to be a genuine hate for the character of Kimmy in how she was presented and how other characters dealt with her. Since this was my first book in the series, I was surprised by the negativity that arose every time she appeared on the page. Maybe context clues from the other books would explain this, as I was confused and not actually disliking that character myself.
I enjoyed seeing Lana investigate despite not always understanding her reasoning for her actions. I figured out the killer, like it was genuinely the only person who made sense, and I was incredibly frustrated with how Lana handled that character. If I explained myself, though, it would be a huge spoiler, unfortunately.
This was a fun, light mystery. I don't think this one specifically was for me, but I would be interested in trying earlier books in the series. A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher.
November 16, 2025
What's to be done when a mystery book seemingly comes to life?
That's what Lana Lee is up against when the author of her favourite book series is found dead at her book signing in Lana's beloved Asia Village in Cleveland. When Lana's detective boyfriend Adam Trudeau asks for her help with the case, she pulls out all the stops with the help of her best friends Megan and Kimmy to determine if someone really imitated the murder from the author's book.
The first paragraph of this book beautifully characterizes the impact that bookstores can have on the lives of people; how we can find ourselves within the shelves of the shop, relating to a character at some of the highest and lowest parts of our lives. You can tell that Vivien Chien knows the mind of a reader, and this latest instalment in the Noodle Shop Mystery series is my favourite yet.
Seeing the growth of my favourite characters, especially Megan, had me voraciously devouring this book. The mystery is engaging from start to finish, and I was left wanting the next book immediately. Also, huge shout out to the representation of a character trying to shoulder the emotions of a family illness all by themselves; it's portrayed in a way that anyone who has faced that situation can relate to.
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin's Press I Minotaur Press for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
That's what Lana Lee is up against when the author of her favourite book series is found dead at her book signing in Lana's beloved Asia Village in Cleveland. When Lana's detective boyfriend Adam Trudeau asks for her help with the case, she pulls out all the stops with the help of her best friends Megan and Kimmy to determine if someone really imitated the murder from the author's book.
The first paragraph of this book beautifully characterizes the impact that bookstores can have on the lives of people; how we can find ourselves within the shelves of the shop, relating to a character at some of the highest and lowest parts of our lives. You can tell that Vivien Chien knows the mind of a reader, and this latest instalment in the Noodle Shop Mystery series is my favourite yet.
Seeing the growth of my favourite characters, especially Megan, had me voraciously devouring this book. The mystery is engaging from start to finish, and I was left wanting the next book immediately. Also, huge shout out to the representation of a character trying to shoulder the emotions of a family illness all by themselves; it's portrayed in a way that anyone who has faced that situation can relate to.
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin's Press I Minotaur Press for the opportunity to read this book for free in exchange for my honest review.
January 26, 2026
Lana Lee is back in another fun and funny addition to the Noodle Shop series.
A local mystery author is set to sign her latest novel at The Modern Scroll, the bookstore that Lana's friend Cindy Kwan owns. The event is going well until the author is found dead in the mystery aisle, holding her own book.
Detective Trudeau has always warned Lana off putting herself in danger, but this time he asks for her help and they work together to solve the murder. Lana's friends Kimmy and Megan are also on board.
As always, I love these characters, the setting, and the writing.
And I couldn't agree more with this quote from the book - "Bookstores are the happiest places on earth."
A local mystery author is set to sign her latest novel at The Modern Scroll, the bookstore that Lana's friend Cindy Kwan owns. The event is going well until the author is found dead in the mystery aisle, holding her own book.
Detective Trudeau has always warned Lana off putting herself in danger, but this time he asks for her help and they work together to solve the murder. Lana's friends Kimmy and Megan are also on board.
As always, I love these characters, the setting, and the writing.
And I couldn't agree more with this quote from the book - "Bookstores are the happiest places on earth."
January 26, 2026
Lana is back and as usual, right in the middle of trouble. When a successful author does a book signing at the Modern Scroll, the event end with more than just a few selfies. Lana is pulled in by her boyfriend, Adam, to try to help solve the murder.
Yet another fun read from Vivian Chien. The Noodle Shop Mystery series is a great palate cleanser for some very light reading.
Yet another fun read from Vivian Chien. The Noodle Shop Mystery series is a great palate cleanser for some very light reading.
January 4, 2026
I can’t stand Kimmy or Ana May. Brought this down from a 4 stars to 2. I hate Kimmy that much. I’m going to DNF this series since she keeps getting a bigger part and outdoing Lana. This is ridiculous
January 20, 2026
fun, twisty, and set ups for future novels. The characters are fun to spend time with, so looking forward to more. And a very good escape from the world right now
January 25, 2026
So obsessed with this series!
January 16, 2026
Murders being staged to look like an author's books is an old trope, one going back to at least the 1980s when it popped up in so many different TV mystery series. The clues left all over that need solving brought to mind to recent books I've read: Case of the Blues by Korina Moss (2023) and The Secret Christmas Library by Jenny Colgan (2025).
The thought of putting the two together though made my hair stand on end and I went into the rest of the mystery expecting to dislike it. Thankfully Vivien Chien and her characters are genre savvy enough to how ridiculous those plots are. As they are unwilling to let the plot play out as predicted even after the killer leaves a copy of Chan's book behind in a similar fashion, they are able to steer the investigation back into something they have control over. There are also some delightful red herrings in this mystery to keep things interesting.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2026/com...
The thought of putting the two together though made my hair stand on end and I went into the rest of the mystery expecting to dislike it. Thankfully Vivien Chien and her characters are genre savvy enough to how ridiculous those plots are. As they are unwilling to let the plot play out as predicted even after the killer leaves a copy of Chan's book behind in a similar fashion, they are able to steer the investigation back into something they have control over. There are also some delightful red herrings in this mystery to keep things interesting.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2026/com...
February 3, 2026
Crime Rangoon is the 12th book in the Noodle Shop mystery series by Vivien Chien. One of my favorite sleuths, Lana Lee, is back to investigate a stranger-than-fiction murder with the help of her detective boyfriend. Lana Lee is excited for the appearance of her favorite author at a book signing in Asia Village.
Lana Lee has the honor of being the author's "handler" for the event. Unfortunately, the author is found dead in the mystery aisle of the bookstore, clutching a copy of her own new book. Coincidentally, the details of the murder matches the book's plot! Detective boyfriend, Adam, and Lana team up for the first time on purpose to solve the mystery. But first, they must work through the novel to outwit the murderer.
Books within a book can be tricky. It takes a skilled author to tell a story within a story, carry two plots without confusing the reader and solve a double mystery. Vivien Chien pulls it off in Crime Rangoon but something was off. Perhaps the mystery was too easy to figure out. Or maybe because my least liked character, Kimmy, had a bigger role in the story so it annoyed me. There is humor and light romance but it didn't save the book for me.
That doesn't mean Crime Rangoon is not for you, if already a fan of this series. Newbies, I do not recommend this as your first Vivien Chien novel. Anyhoot—here's a holiday task for you, Bookhearts. Order your favorite Asian dish with a side of crab or cream cheese rangoons, then settle in for a cozy mystery read. Crime Rangoon will take your mind off the bustle of the holidays while enjoying a takeout meal.
Happy Early Pub Day, Vivien Chien! Crime Rangoon will be available Tuesday, December 30.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
Lana Lee has the honor of being the author's "handler" for the event. Unfortunately, the author is found dead in the mystery aisle of the bookstore, clutching a copy of her own new book. Coincidentally, the details of the murder matches the book's plot! Detective boyfriend, Adam, and Lana team up for the first time on purpose to solve the mystery. But first, they must work through the novel to outwit the murderer.
Books within a book can be tricky. It takes a skilled author to tell a story within a story, carry two plots without confusing the reader and solve a double mystery. Vivien Chien pulls it off in Crime Rangoon but something was off. Perhaps the mystery was too easy to figure out. Or maybe because my least liked character, Kimmy, had a bigger role in the story so it annoyed me. There is humor and light romance but it didn't save the book for me.
That doesn't mean Crime Rangoon is not for you, if already a fan of this series. Newbies, I do not recommend this as your first Vivien Chien novel. Anyhoot—here's a holiday task for you, Bookhearts. Order your favorite Asian dish with a side of crab or cream cheese rangoons, then settle in for a cozy mystery read. Crime Rangoon will take your mind off the bustle of the holidays while enjoying a takeout meal.
Happy Early Pub Day, Vivien Chien! Crime Rangoon will be available Tuesday, December 30.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
December 11, 2025
Listen, I came in fresh. No backstory, no previous Noodle Shop intel, just me and vibes. And within ten pages I was already screaming “SOMEONE PROTECT LANA LEE AT ALL COSTS.” Because not only is she out here working full-time in a family restaurant, dodging neighborhood aunties, and acting as a glorified book signing babysitter... she also just tripped into a murder straight out of her favorite author’s crime novel. IN THE ACTUAL BOOKSTORE. DURING THE SIGNING. You cannot write this level of chaos. Except Vivien Chien did and now I’m spiraling.
First of all, I was not prepared for how much I would want to crawl into Asia Village and live there like a cozy little chaos goblin. The Modern Scroll? Perfect. Ho-Lee Noodle House? Iconic. The general vibe? Equal parts comfort food and murder peril. And Lana... oh girl, you are doing SO much for someone not actually on the force. I’d be feral too if my detective boyfriend suddenly decided this was the moment to finally let me into the casework, like it’s couple’s game night but make it Homicide.
The case itself? Straight out of the pages of the victim’s own book, The Mystery of General Tso, which feels illegal somehow. Not just because of the murder, but because of the absolute audacity of killing an author during a signing while they’re surrounded by fans and dumpling grease. And yet? It slaps. The mystery kept me guessing (I suspected the koi pond at one point, don’t ask), and the fact that Lana had to basically read the book to solve the crime?? Meta. Insane. Delicious.
Let’s talk about Detective Adam Trudeau. Sir. Sir!!! You finally let Lana in on the case and immediately get overwhelmed like a man trying to read IKEA instructions without his glasses. He’s lucky he’s hot, because half the time I wanted to shake him and the other half I was like “aww you emotionally stunted menace, you’re trying.” Their dynamic is chaotic in the best way... competence porn meets rom-com meets “please stop dragging my girlfriend into murder scenes but also yes, she’s helpful.”
Kimmy and Megan? Absolute legends. If I ever get accused of murder, I want them on my emergency contact list. Megan is the best friend every main character deserves and Kimmy brings the chaotic energy of someone who once solved a crime just by being nosey and refusing to mind her business. Every cozy needs a squad and this one is dangerously effective.
Did I predict the killer? Absolutely not. Did I yell “YOU SNEAKY LITTLE RAT” at my Kindle? Oh yes. That twist was nasty in the best way and the way it ties back into the fictional book plot gave me that weird little serotonin hit only found in tightly plotted cozies and true crime reenactments.
Also, I have now developed an unhealthy attachment to Kikko the pug and if anything happens to him in future installments I will riot in the food court.
This was my first trip to Asia Village and guess what? I’m already packing my bags to go back. If this is book twelve and it’s still serving this hard? I’m sold. Fully obsessed. Going full conspiracy-board about past murders I haven’t even read yet. RIP my TBR, it’s all noodles and bodies from here on out. Four stars.
Whodunity Award: For Murder at the Book Signing, Sponsored by General Tso’s Ghost
Huge thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC that kicked off my unhinged obsession with this series.
First of all, I was not prepared for how much I would want to crawl into Asia Village and live there like a cozy little chaos goblin. The Modern Scroll? Perfect. Ho-Lee Noodle House? Iconic. The general vibe? Equal parts comfort food and murder peril. And Lana... oh girl, you are doing SO much for someone not actually on the force. I’d be feral too if my detective boyfriend suddenly decided this was the moment to finally let me into the casework, like it’s couple’s game night but make it Homicide.
The case itself? Straight out of the pages of the victim’s own book, The Mystery of General Tso, which feels illegal somehow. Not just because of the murder, but because of the absolute audacity of killing an author during a signing while they’re surrounded by fans and dumpling grease. And yet? It slaps. The mystery kept me guessing (I suspected the koi pond at one point, don’t ask), and the fact that Lana had to basically read the book to solve the crime?? Meta. Insane. Delicious.
Let’s talk about Detective Adam Trudeau. Sir. Sir!!! You finally let Lana in on the case and immediately get overwhelmed like a man trying to read IKEA instructions without his glasses. He’s lucky he’s hot, because half the time I wanted to shake him and the other half I was like “aww you emotionally stunted menace, you’re trying.” Their dynamic is chaotic in the best way... competence porn meets rom-com meets “please stop dragging my girlfriend into murder scenes but also yes, she’s helpful.”
Kimmy and Megan? Absolute legends. If I ever get accused of murder, I want them on my emergency contact list. Megan is the best friend every main character deserves and Kimmy brings the chaotic energy of someone who once solved a crime just by being nosey and refusing to mind her business. Every cozy needs a squad and this one is dangerously effective.
Did I predict the killer? Absolutely not. Did I yell “YOU SNEAKY LITTLE RAT” at my Kindle? Oh yes. That twist was nasty in the best way and the way it ties back into the fictional book plot gave me that weird little serotonin hit only found in tightly plotted cozies and true crime reenactments.
Also, I have now developed an unhealthy attachment to Kikko the pug and if anything happens to him in future installments I will riot in the food court.
This was my first trip to Asia Village and guess what? I’m already packing my bags to go back. If this is book twelve and it’s still serving this hard? I’m sold. Fully obsessed. Going full conspiracy-board about past murders I haven’t even read yet. RIP my TBR, it’s all noodles and bodies from here on out. Four stars.
Whodunity Award: For Murder at the Book Signing, Sponsored by General Tso’s Ghost
Huge thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC that kicked off my unhinged obsession with this series.
January 15, 2026
Lana Lee has a day job managing her family’s noodle restaurant in Asia Village in Cleveland. She has a second job solving crimes that happen around Asia Village. And now she’s taking on a third job, although just for one day. Her favorite author is coming to Asia Village’s bookstore, and Lana has been asked to be the author’s handler for the signing.
Lana is a big fan of mystery writer Charlene Chan, and loved her latest novel, The Mystery of General Tso. So when bookstore owner Cindy Kwan invited the author for a signing at her bookstore, she asked Lana to help out with the signing. It would be Lana’s job that day to keep an eye on the author, making sure the fans don’t overwhelm her and keeping the readers moving quickly through the signing.
When Lana had read the new book, she had been intrigued by the story about an author who was found dead at their own book signing, clutching their book in the mystery aisle of a bookstore. There had been a mysterious hooded figure at the signing, and after the author’s death, a storage unit had been found in their name. When the police go to check on the storage unit, it’s empty except for a single copy of the book.
So when author Charlene disappeared at the book signing, Lana had a bad feeling. But when she found Charlene on the floor of the bookstore, in the mystery aisle, clutching a copy of her book, Lana knew that things were really wrong. Charlene was dead, just like the author in her book. There had been a hooded figure at the store that day, and the police do find a storage unit. Then Lana finds herself in the most surprising situation she’d met so far—her police detective boyfriend asked for her help with the case.
Lana agrees, of course. She really liked Charlene and wants to see her murderer come to justice. But having read the book, she knows just how much danger she is putting herself into if she does agree to investigate. But as the person who was closest to her the day of her death, Lana knows that she is in the best position to find the killer. She just has to make sure she finds the killer before the killer finds her.
Crime Rangoon is book 12 in Vivien Chien’s popular Noodle Shop mystery series. These books, set around Asia Village and those who work there, feature likeable characters, smart plots, plenty of red herrings, a hot police detective boyfriend, lots of friends and family, and an adorable pug. These light-hearted mysteries bring the family drama and the love along with the mysteries. Lana and the gang at Ho-Lee Noodle Shop cook up delicious meals along with killer investigations.
I really enjoyed the plot of Crime Rangoon. The idea of a murder following the plot of a mystery novel was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed seeing how Lana put the pieces together. I have been a longtime fan of Vivien Chien and her cast of characters in these novels, and this book did not disappoint. And while I did love the way so much of this story happens in the bookstore, I look forward to spending more time at the restaurant and hearing more about the delicious foods there.
Egalleys for Crime Rangoon were provided by Minotaur Books through NetGalley, with many thanks, but the opinions are mine.
Lana is a big fan of mystery writer Charlene Chan, and loved her latest novel, The Mystery of General Tso. So when bookstore owner Cindy Kwan invited the author for a signing at her bookstore, she asked Lana to help out with the signing. It would be Lana’s job that day to keep an eye on the author, making sure the fans don’t overwhelm her and keeping the readers moving quickly through the signing.
When Lana had read the new book, she had been intrigued by the story about an author who was found dead at their own book signing, clutching their book in the mystery aisle of a bookstore. There had been a mysterious hooded figure at the signing, and after the author’s death, a storage unit had been found in their name. When the police go to check on the storage unit, it’s empty except for a single copy of the book.
So when author Charlene disappeared at the book signing, Lana had a bad feeling. But when she found Charlene on the floor of the bookstore, in the mystery aisle, clutching a copy of her book, Lana knew that things were really wrong. Charlene was dead, just like the author in her book. There had been a hooded figure at the store that day, and the police do find a storage unit. Then Lana finds herself in the most surprising situation she’d met so far—her police detective boyfriend asked for her help with the case.
Lana agrees, of course. She really liked Charlene and wants to see her murderer come to justice. But having read the book, she knows just how much danger she is putting herself into if she does agree to investigate. But as the person who was closest to her the day of her death, Lana knows that she is in the best position to find the killer. She just has to make sure she finds the killer before the killer finds her.
Crime Rangoon is book 12 in Vivien Chien’s popular Noodle Shop mystery series. These books, set around Asia Village and those who work there, feature likeable characters, smart plots, plenty of red herrings, a hot police detective boyfriend, lots of friends and family, and an adorable pug. These light-hearted mysteries bring the family drama and the love along with the mysteries. Lana and the gang at Ho-Lee Noodle Shop cook up delicious meals along with killer investigations.
I really enjoyed the plot of Crime Rangoon. The idea of a murder following the plot of a mystery novel was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed seeing how Lana put the pieces together. I have been a longtime fan of Vivien Chien and her cast of characters in these novels, and this book did not disappoint. And while I did love the way so much of this story happens in the bookstore, I look forward to spending more time at the restaurant and hearing more about the delicious foods there.
Egalleys for Crime Rangoon were provided by Minotaur Books through NetGalley, with many thanks, but the opinions are mine.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a fun, bouncy series, with a wonderful array of central characters. The heroine of the series is Lana Lee, the owner (along with her family) of a restaurant in Cleveland. The restaurant sits in Asia Village, and one of the businesses near Lana’s (as well as near to her heart), is a bookstore. When Lana is browsing one day the owner mentions that her employee has quit out of the blue and she’s in a panic about a huge upcoming author appearance. Lana offers to help, and the owner assigns her to be the author’s assistant (mainly monitoring the signing line and opening the books to the right page to be signed). Lana is also a big fan of the author’s and has just finished the book.
Lana is so delighted, she goes ahead and recruits her somewhat brash and slightly loud buddy Kimmy to help at the register, as Kimmy has her own shop in the market and is experienced at handling a crowd. As signing day dawns and Lana and Kimmy arrive at the mall they are shocked to see the number of people waiting to meet the author, and the bookstore owner is slightly overwhlemed. However, the team gets down to work, the author arrives, and the signing begins.
It goes well and the author patiently works her way through a long line despite feeling slightly faint in the middle of the event, but when the signing ends, disaster strikes, with the author being found dead in the mystery aisle. As Lana is the one to find her, and has also read her book - which describes to a T the manner of her own death - she’s pretty freaked out. Lana, her roommate Megan, Kimmy, and Lana’s boyfriend, Adam Trudeau – who also happens to be a cop – settle in to figure out what happened.
To Lana’s utter shock, Adam invites her to be a part of the investigation, and she happily agrees, though it makes her quite nervous when she listens in on an interrogation. There seem to be plenty of suspects, but the women and Adam eliminate them one by one, left with a seemingly insolvable puzzle.
Of course it’s not insolvable, but it does take some clever sleuthing and deductive reasoning on Lana’s part to unmask the killer. These books are so much fun because the characters are interesting and nicely quirky, but they are still supportive of each other. Adam is just a decent guy and while he gets annoyed by Lana’s and her friend’s involvement at times, he also appreciates it. Lana also has one of the cutest dogs in mystery fiction, Kikko the black pug.
The other standout of course is the setting, Cleveland being a fairly unusual one, as well as the gentle portrayal of the Asian community in Cleveland. As depicted by Chien it’s an incredibly supportive one. This book is one of the reasons I read and enjoy cozies. The people are interesting and nice to each other, they function in a recognizable environment, and the mysteries are clever. Lana isn’t jaded by her investigations, and she’s properly shocked at discovering a dead body. I can’t say you won’t be hungry as you read as the food described sounds delicious. All in all, there’s nothing quite so satisfying as a good cozy, and the sleuthing in this one is top notch.
Lana is so delighted, she goes ahead and recruits her somewhat brash and slightly loud buddy Kimmy to help at the register, as Kimmy has her own shop in the market and is experienced at handling a crowd. As signing day dawns and Lana and Kimmy arrive at the mall they are shocked to see the number of people waiting to meet the author, and the bookstore owner is slightly overwhlemed. However, the team gets down to work, the author arrives, and the signing begins.
It goes well and the author patiently works her way through a long line despite feeling slightly faint in the middle of the event, but when the signing ends, disaster strikes, with the author being found dead in the mystery aisle. As Lana is the one to find her, and has also read her book - which describes to a T the manner of her own death - she’s pretty freaked out. Lana, her roommate Megan, Kimmy, and Lana’s boyfriend, Adam Trudeau – who also happens to be a cop – settle in to figure out what happened.
To Lana’s utter shock, Adam invites her to be a part of the investigation, and she happily agrees, though it makes her quite nervous when she listens in on an interrogation. There seem to be plenty of suspects, but the women and Adam eliminate them one by one, left with a seemingly insolvable puzzle.
Of course it’s not insolvable, but it does take some clever sleuthing and deductive reasoning on Lana’s part to unmask the killer. These books are so much fun because the characters are interesting and nicely quirky, but they are still supportive of each other. Adam is just a decent guy and while he gets annoyed by Lana’s and her friend’s involvement at times, he also appreciates it. Lana also has one of the cutest dogs in mystery fiction, Kikko the black pug.
The other standout of course is the setting, Cleveland being a fairly unusual one, as well as the gentle portrayal of the Asian community in Cleveland. As depicted by Chien it’s an incredibly supportive one. This book is one of the reasons I read and enjoy cozies. The people are interesting and nice to each other, they function in a recognizable environment, and the mysteries are clever. Lana isn’t jaded by her investigations, and she’s properly shocked at discovering a dead body. I can’t say you won’t be hungry as you read as the food described sounds delicious. All in all, there’s nothing quite so satisfying as a good cozy, and the sleuthing in this one is top notch.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
This is the 12th book in the Noodle Shop Mystery series. At this point the series is like a well oiled machine. We have Lana, Meghan, Kimmy, investigating with Adam and the Mahong Matrons assisting. In this newest one, Lana helps out the bookstore owner in the plaza she knows. She's happy to help since one of her favorite authors is going to come to the bookstore to sign copies of her newest book. When the author unexpectedly dies though, Lana and her friends are on the case when all signs point to murder.
Lana and her sister's relationship is still fractured, but her relationships with Adam, Meghan, and Kimmy have gotten stronger. At this point everyone knows Lana is an amateur sleuth and she doesn't have to run around pretending she's not looking into the crime. That definitely makes things easier. I think that it was good though to see Lana/Meghan getting better at their sleuthing though Kimmy was very hard to take and I honestly don't get why she's even invested. I don't think Chien has done enough IMHO to even show why Lana stays friends with Kimmy cause she's mostly annoying to me as a character.
Lana and Adam's relationship is very strong per usual and it seems as if they are moving to a point of moving in together (eventually) and even seeing that they are going to be with each other in the long-term. We get hints about Meghan's past relationship but I really wish that Chien had delved into that more. I did call BS though on who she decides she's interested in and who is interested in her. It just felt overly complicated and not realistic.
The main mystery though was good, I was interested in it because the idea of an author being murdered similar to a story she wrote was great, but I wish that Chien had followed that thread a bit more. It seemed as if everyone was a bad red Herring and I guessed pretty early who the guilty party was and wondered why in the world Lana didn't get there quicker.
The book did read a bit fillerly to me but I enjoyed it anyway.
This is the 12th book in the Noodle Shop Mystery series. At this point the series is like a well oiled machine. We have Lana, Meghan, Kimmy, investigating with Adam and the Mahong Matrons assisting. In this newest one, Lana helps out the bookstore owner in the plaza she knows. She's happy to help since one of her favorite authors is going to come to the bookstore to sign copies of her newest book. When the author unexpectedly dies though, Lana and her friends are on the case when all signs point to murder.
Lana and her sister's relationship is still fractured, but her relationships with Adam, Meghan, and Kimmy have gotten stronger. At this point everyone knows Lana is an amateur sleuth and she doesn't have to run around pretending she's not looking into the crime. That definitely makes things easier. I think that it was good though to see Lana/Meghan getting better at their sleuthing though Kimmy was very hard to take and I honestly don't get why she's even invested. I don't think Chien has done enough IMHO to even show why Lana stays friends with Kimmy cause she's mostly annoying to me as a character.
Lana and Adam's relationship is very strong per usual and it seems as if they are moving to a point of moving in together (eventually) and even seeing that they are going to be with each other in the long-term. We get hints about Meghan's past relationship but I really wish that Chien had delved into that more. I did call BS though on who she decides she's interested in and who is interested in her. It just felt overly complicated and not realistic.
The main mystery though was good, I was interested in it because the idea of an author being murdered similar to a story she wrote was great, but I wish that Chien had followed that thread a bit more. It seemed as if everyone was a bad red Herring and I guessed pretty early who the guilty party was and wondered why in the world Lana didn't get there quicker.
The book did read a bit fillerly to me but I enjoyed it anyway.
December 3, 2025
Lana is helping Asia Village neighbor Cindy with an author event at The Modern Scroll bookshop. Charlene Chan is a hot new mystery author and her latest release was unputdownable. The women can hardly believe their luck getting a bestselling author to come to their store and attracting hordes of customers to Asia Village to buy, buy, buy! Charlene, better known as Charlie, is sweet as pie and everyone is enamored... well, not everyone. When Charlene dies from apparently being injected with insulin it's up to Lana to figure out who among the attendees did her in. Was it an ex-lover? A cheated writers group partner? Or the mysterious man dressed as the killer from her book?
I really enjoy this series. It's nice to read a cozy where the heroine is not the same 30-60 white woman working in a library/bookstore/craft shop, entangled in romances with two men, with the perfect pet cat/dog who can basically talk and would solve the mysteries if only the MC could read their cues. Don't get me wrong, I love that storyline, but this series is a breath of fresh air. I love that she's young and everything about her life is about as different from mine as one could get. Her boyfriend, Detective Trudeau, leans on her a lot in this book and that's a rare storyline where the love interest isn't constantly trying to keep baby in the corner.
In this book, as Lana is trying to figure out the killer there is one person who should stand out and somehow I just missed it completely. If you pick up on it, that might ruin the story for you if you like to be kept in the dark until the end. But I didn't figure it out, as obvious as it was in retrospect. I don't know if I wasn't paying close enough attention or if Chien did an amazing job of hiding it. Either way, I didn't pick out the killer until the last few chapters.
Anyone who is a fan of cozy mysteries, particularly someone who maybe getting a little tired of the same-old same-old storylines, should check out this series.
Thank you to Vivien Chien, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
I really enjoy this series. It's nice to read a cozy where the heroine is not the same 30-60 white woman working in a library/bookstore/craft shop, entangled in romances with two men, with the perfect pet cat/dog who can basically talk and would solve the mysteries if only the MC could read their cues. Don't get me wrong, I love that storyline, but this series is a breath of fresh air. I love that she's young and everything about her life is about as different from mine as one could get. Her boyfriend, Detective Trudeau, leans on her a lot in this book and that's a rare storyline where the love interest isn't constantly trying to keep baby in the corner.
In this book, as Lana is trying to figure out the killer there is one person who should stand out and somehow I just missed it completely. If you pick up on it, that might ruin the story for you if you like to be kept in the dark until the end. But I didn't figure it out, as obvious as it was in retrospect. I don't know if I wasn't paying close enough attention or if Chien did an amazing job of hiding it. Either way, I didn't pick out the killer until the last few chapters.
Anyone who is a fan of cozy mysteries, particularly someone who maybe getting a little tired of the same-old same-old storylines, should check out this series.
Thank you to Vivien Chien, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is another really great cozy in the Noodle Shop series by Vivien Chien. Lana Lee, manager of Ho Lee Noodle House in the Asia Village shopping mall in Cleveland, Ohio and amateur sleuth from circumstances out of her control, finds herself with yet another murder to solve that happened too close to home. The book begins with Lana excited to be part of a book signing for her favorite author that is taking place at her favorite bookstore, The Modern Scroll, in Asia Village. She his it off immediately with author Charlaine "Charlie" Chan and is looking forward to getting to know her better. As per the norm, before long, a murder takes place and any pleasantries Lana was looking forward to, are no longer an option. She enlists the help of her friend and roommate, Megan, and her longtime friend, Kimmy, to help her figure out the killer's identity and see that they pay for their crime. Surprisingly, this time she doesn't need to hide her sleuthing from her police detective boyfriend, Adam. There are so many suspects since the murder happened at the busy book signing event that was packed with people anxiously waiting to have their books signed. The book has all the wonderful characters you've come to expect, including Lana's friend, the chef at the restaurant, Peter, who just so happens to also be Kimmy's boyfriend. And, of course, the Mahjong Matrons who dine every morning at the restaurant Lana's family owns and seem to know everything that takes place within Asia Village. This is probably my favorite in the series so far with a wonderfully written storyline that has twists and turns, red herrings, strong and believable characters, and so many mentions of delicious foods that your stomach will be grumbling as you place your takeout order from your favorite Chinese restaurant while you're reading .... I did ... twice ... while reading this great book! Way to go, Vivien Chien, I'm so glad you're feeling well enough to be writing such wonderful stories! Keep kicking butt, and, in case no one told you yet today ... you look absolutely amazing!!
January 28, 2026
Lana is very excited that the Asia Village bookstore has lined up a visit by her favorite author, Charlene Chan. Lana volunteers to help with the event, and is crestfallen when Charlene drops dead in the mystery aisle deep into the event. What’s really strange is the manor of death seems to copy the death in the Charlene’s latest book. Life seems to be imitating art in concerning ways. Adam is called in to investigate, and to everyone’s shock, he decides to use Lana’s expertise on this case. She’s read the book the Charlene wrote and knows a bit about her, so he’s deciding to work with her instead of begging her not to get involved. Can they solve a case as a couple? And Charlene seemed so nice, who would have wanted to kill her besides maybe the crazy lady from her writer’s group that accused her of stealing her idea?
This was another enjoyable time spent with Lana and gang. It was fun to see Lana and Adam working as a team (even if Adam couldn’t make her officially part of the investigation). I liked Lana wondering about what it is like to be an author, asking Charlene about writing and go to book signings and such. It felt like Chien was giving a nod to her reading community.
Notes on content:
Language: About 4 minor swears and 1 moderate swear.
Sexual content: Nothing beyond a kiss on page. It is mentioned that Lana and Adam sleep together, but absolutely no details (and most of the time it seems like they’re just sleeping).
Violence: There is a murder but it isn’t bloody or gory. The murderer threatens someone else and almost hurts them but the would be victim retaliates a bit and gets away.
Ethnic diversity: Lana is half Taiwanese American half white American, she has many Asian American friends and business associates at Asian village, Lana’s roommate Megan is white American as is Adam.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified
Other: There’s a woman in the story who likes to accuse others of plagiarism for attention. One person has mental health issues. Lana’s relationship with her sister is strained during this story and it is bothering her.
This was another enjoyable time spent with Lana and gang. It was fun to see Lana and Adam working as a team (even if Adam couldn’t make her officially part of the investigation). I liked Lana wondering about what it is like to be an author, asking Charlene about writing and go to book signings and such. It felt like Chien was giving a nod to her reading community.
Notes on content:
Language: About 4 minor swears and 1 moderate swear.
Sexual content: Nothing beyond a kiss on page. It is mentioned that Lana and Adam sleep together, but absolutely no details (and most of the time it seems like they’re just sleeping).
Violence: There is a murder but it isn’t bloody or gory. The murderer threatens someone else and almost hurts them but the would be victim retaliates a bit and gets away.
Ethnic diversity: Lana is half Taiwanese American half white American, she has many Asian American friends and business associates at Asian village, Lana’s roommate Megan is white American as is Adam.
LGBTQ+ content: None specified
Other: There’s a woman in the story who likes to accuse others of plagiarism for attention. One person has mental health issues. Lana’s relationship with her sister is strained during this story and it is bothering her.
December 5, 2025
5/5 stars: This is Chien's twelfth entry in the Noodle Shop Mystery Series which is a BIPOC Culinary Cozy Mystery set in Cleveland, Ohio. Featuring a family restaurant manager who's chance to be her favorite author's “handler” at a book signing are dashed when the writer's found dead. She'll find herself officially teaming up with her detective boyfriend to investigate the prominent author's death after her newest book's plot matches the details of her murder. With her extensive knowledge of the author's book series, she'll use all her skills to work through the novel so she and her boyfriend can outwit the murderer and beat the die-hard fan to the last chapter.
With plenty of twists and turns, Chien has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Chien's writing and character work are brilliant; the main character's well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a great secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced.
• For Animal Lovers: There's the MC's adorable pug.
• Features a shopping plaza with a diverse assortment of Asian shops and proprietors.
While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, Death by Dumpling. This is a favorite series and this newest entry doesn't miss; highly recommend!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Chien has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Chien's writing and character work are brilliant; the main character's well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a great secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced.
• For Animal Lovers: There's the MC's adorable pug.
• Features a shopping plaza with a diverse assortment of Asian shops and proprietors.
While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, Death by Dumpling. This is a favorite series and this newest entry doesn't miss; highly recommend!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25 stars
Lana Lee manages her family's Asian restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio, but is happy to take a break from the family business for a day to help out at her friend's bookstore. Cindy Kwan is having her first author event and Lana is thrilled to assist the author, who is one of her favorites. The event starts out well but then ends in tragedy when the author dies in the Mystery aisle. Lana has solved cases in the past and this time her boyfriend who is a homicide detective asks for her help.
This is the twelfth book in this series, but I think it would work as a standalone, too. Lana is a likeable character, and I enjoy her friendship with her best friend and roommate Megan Riley, as well as her longtime friend Kimmy Tran. I wasn't sure at first, but I'm also on board with her romance with Adam since he has proven himself to be a loving and supportive partner to Lana. I love reading about the close-knit community of Lana's fellow merchants in the Asia Village Shopping Plaza. The characters aren't perfect, but they have each other's back when needed.
In this book, I liked that things were changed up a bit and Adam actually asked Lana for her help since she was on the scene when the author died and had knowledge that could help solve it. It was interesting seeing the two of them work with both Megan and Kimmy on the investigation. There are several suspects for them to look into and the clues are there for them (and the reader) to identify the actual killer. I liked the ending as well as some interesting developments that could affect Megan, Lana, and Adam. If you've not yet read this cozy mystery series, I highly recommend it.
I received an advance copy of this ebook for review consideration from Minotaur Books and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Lana Lee manages her family's Asian restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio, but is happy to take a break from the family business for a day to help out at her friend's bookstore. Cindy Kwan is having her first author event and Lana is thrilled to assist the author, who is one of her favorites. The event starts out well but then ends in tragedy when the author dies in the Mystery aisle. Lana has solved cases in the past and this time her boyfriend who is a homicide detective asks for her help.
This is the twelfth book in this series, but I think it would work as a standalone, too. Lana is a likeable character, and I enjoy her friendship with her best friend and roommate Megan Riley, as well as her longtime friend Kimmy Tran. I wasn't sure at first, but I'm also on board with her romance with Adam since he has proven himself to be a loving and supportive partner to Lana. I love reading about the close-knit community of Lana's fellow merchants in the Asia Village Shopping Plaza. The characters aren't perfect, but they have each other's back when needed.
In this book, I liked that things were changed up a bit and Adam actually asked Lana for her help since she was on the scene when the author died and had knowledge that could help solve it. It was interesting seeing the two of them work with both Megan and Kimmy on the investigation. There are several suspects for them to look into and the clues are there for them (and the reader) to identify the actual killer. I liked the ending as well as some interesting developments that could affect Megan, Lana, and Adam. If you've not yet read this cozy mystery series, I highly recommend it.
I received an advance copy of this ebook for review consideration from Minotaur Books and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
December 31, 2025
Crime Rangoon by Vivian Chien is a Noodle Shop mystery featuring Lana Lee and her many friends. Lana managed the restaurant for her parents since she had opted not to chase a career in law or medicine, as they would have chosen. She had a lovely boyfriend, Adam Trudeau, who was a police detective. Her restaurant was located in a mall called Asia Village and was surrounded by other businesses and friends. On this particular day, Lana is helping her friend, Cindy, who ran the local bookstore, Mosdern Scroll. Modern Scroll was set to hold a book signing for local author and one of Lana’s favorites, Charlene Chan. Cindy’s other employee, Tara, had quite abruptly so Lana had offered to help and had been appointed Charlie’s handler for the event. Cindy, and Lana’s other friend, Kimmy Tran, were to man the registers. Everything was going swimmingly and Lana was getting a donut, another of her favorite things, when something went wrong with Charlie. She was on the floor...dead.
Lana is a great character, intrinsically curious, and a fan of mystery books. She makes friends wherever she goes and lives with her bestie, Megan, who owns a bar, so their schedules don’t match up many days. Thankfully there was a nurse at the signing, Hallie, who pronounced Charlie dead. This was an unusual case as Lana was present, and wonder-of-wonders, Adam asked her and her friends to assist. Usually that was the last thing he wanted. This was an odd crime. So far it followed the plot of Charlie’s latest book. It made the whole thing a little disconcerting. After following numerous false leads, they found the murderer with no one, Lana, getting hurt. Love this series. Chien develops excellent characters.
I was invited to read Crime Rangoon by St Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #VivianChien #CrimeRangoon
Lana is a great character, intrinsically curious, and a fan of mystery books. She makes friends wherever she goes and lives with her bestie, Megan, who owns a bar, so their schedules don’t match up many days. Thankfully there was a nurse at the signing, Hallie, who pronounced Charlie dead. This was an unusual case as Lana was present, and wonder-of-wonders, Adam asked her and her friends to assist. Usually that was the last thing he wanted. This was an odd crime. So far it followed the plot of Charlie’s latest book. It made the whole thing a little disconcerting. After following numerous false leads, they found the murderer with no one, Lana, getting hurt. Love this series. Chien develops excellent characters.
I was invited to read Crime Rangoon by St Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #VivianChien #CrimeRangoon
January 4, 2026
This was a really disappointing read. Lana makes several comments about the world that I just can't get over and let go. The first was about how she dismisses the world news cause it seems to not really involve her. Even if this was written over a year ago, the conflicts around the world that are still on going to this day, it seems selfish and egocentric (which she always is but I can usually let it go easier) I also DNFed the book because of this. Then some weird crap about how no one wants to work now a days and they are always calling off or quiting cause employees am I right? Woman you are doing everything but running your business, you're employees are carrying you and you still think like this?
Then she was like COPS ARE GREAT!!! But you still always interfere with the investigation, make up your narrative. Either they are amazing and don't need you or they suck and do need you.
Then the mystery itself was awful. Like basic investigative stuff about looking into the victim and starting with her personal life seemed half looked into. And the why was so stupid I am sorry. The who was a given, there was no other actual suspect. And Kimmy... she would complain when not involved but then complained that she was and she was especially awful to people in this volume. How does she have friends and bf?
personal stuff-- Girl it is book 12 and you are acting like the idea of living or being with him in a serious way is outrageous? Why do these people date? She still is so childish when it comes to her sister.
This is probably my last book in this series.
Then she was like COPS ARE GREAT!!! But you still always interfere with the investigation, make up your narrative. Either they are amazing and don't need you or they suck and do need you.
Then the mystery itself was awful. Like basic investigative stuff about looking into the victim and starting with her personal life seemed half looked into. And the why was so stupid I am sorry. The who was a given, there was no other actual suspect. And Kimmy... she would complain when not involved but then complained that she was and she was especially awful to people in this volume. How does she have friends and bf?
personal stuff-- Girl it is book 12 and you are acting like the idea of living or being with him in a serious way is outrageous? Why do these people date? She still is so childish when it comes to her sister.
This is probably my last book in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews