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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 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 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.
307 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 30, 2025
99 people are currently reading
760 people want to read
About the author
Vivien Chien
25 books1,727 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 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.
March 6, 2026
It was easy to guess the murderer, the plot was pretty good otherwise. I don’t like that Kimmy character. It was a quick read. The word coffee is mentioned almost on every page.
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.
2025
December 2, 2025ANHPI TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
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.
February 5, 2026
3.5 stars
March 7, 2026
A New York bestselling author dies in Asia Village and Charlene Chan's death eerily matches the murder written in her latest book. Lana Lee is on the case and the most miraculous part is that her boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, requests her help.
This book was decent if not a little disappointing. There was the whole angle that the murder in real life mirrored the death in Charlene's book. There was even fear that if the sleuth (Lana), police officer (Adam), and private investigator (Lydia) would team up, the PI would die in the process just like in the story. Adam and Lana persuaded Lydia not to get involved and absolutely nothing came out of this fear of one of them dying. Why dangle that threat and not even go there, or imply that it's happening? Even when a slip of paper was found with coordinates to a storage room with highlighted pages of Charlene's book with clues to the next part of the scavenger hunt, that also went no where. Having a murder mimic the murder in a book seemed to be more of a gimmick than something Vivien Chien actually wanted to commit to.
Most disappointing of all was that I guessed who the murderer was right away. I thought it was wild that Lana took her sweet time figuring that out. But I'm not surprised since there were other suspects who were on Lana's radar but everyone in her team took their sweet time looking into them. At least the murderer's motivation was solid.
This would have been a decent enough book, but I really think Vivien Chien needs a new proofreader or editor. I always joke about the amount of times that various characters will smack themselves in the forehead or blow a raspberry. I began keeping track of forehead smackings, but unfortunately forget to keep track of raspberry blowing until it was too late, and noticed the same phrases getting repeated over and over and over and over again. And it was so distracting.
Forehead smacking was kept to a minimal this time:
Cindy smacked herself on the forehead then bent down to collect her inventory. (pg. 9)
If she didn't have my hand, I probably would have smacked myself on the forehead. (pg. 31)
Adam playfully slapped his forehead. (pg. 225)
I smacked my forehead. (pg. 268)
I could have smacked myself in the head right then. (pg. 293)
There was actually an equal amount of winking:
[Paige] ended the sentence with a wink. (pg. 24)
[Charlie] ended the sentence with a playful wink. (pg. 38)
[Charlie] sipped her bottled water, noticed me observing her, and gave me a reassuring wink. (pg. 41)
[Charlie] stood on the opposite side of Kimmy and shot me a quick wink. (pg. 45)
[Ally] gave me a wink, then headed off in search of her friend. (pg. 49)
[Adam] ended the sentence with a wink. (pg. 143)
The amount of time people elbowed someone in the ribs was higher:
Ally elbowed Paige in the ribs. (pg. 24)
Kimmy blurted, flicking her elbow into Cindy's ribs. (pg. 38)
"When this is all cleared up, let's all have dinner," Higgins said, elbowing Adam in the rib. (pg. 63)
Now it was Adam's turn to elbow Higgins in the ribs. (pg. 64)
Kimmy elbowed me in the side of my rib cage. (pg. 117)
[Kimmy] elbowed me in the ribs. (pg. 205)
Kimmy playfully jabbed Megan in the ribs. (pg. 210)
I playfully nudged her with my elbow. (pg. 236)
But then the worse offenders involved clucking tongues:
Kimmy clucked her tongue. (pg. 17)
Anna May clucked her tongue. (pg. 18)
Ally clucked her tongue. (pg. 25)
Kimmy clucked her tongue at me. (pg. 46)
I clucked my tongue. (pg. 65)
[Kimmy] clucked her tongue. (pg. 78)
Megan clucked her tongue. (pg. 100)
Lydia clucked her tongue. (pg. 148)
Tori clucked her tongue. (pg. 171)
I clucked my tongue. (pg. 179)
I clucked my tongue at him before saying to Kimmy, "Maybe let's give it five more minutes?" (pg. 197)
I clucked my tongue. (pg. 211).
Kimmy clucked her tongue. (pg. 240)
Hallie clucked her tongue. (pg. 298)
Followed by pursing lips:
Kimmy pursed her lips and then knelt down to unlock the gate before lifting it up. (pg. 15)
Anna May remained silent but pursed her lips for my benefit. (pg. 20)
Paige pursed her lips in response. (pg. 26)
Cindy pursed her lips as her eyes met mine, and I gave her an apologetic look in return. (pg. 37)
[Kimmy] pursed her lips. (pg. 53)
[Anna May's] brows were furrowed and her lips were pursed. (pg. 58)
Adam pursed his lips. (pg. 64)
Tori pursed her lips. (pg. 172)
Megan pursed her lips. (pg. 178)
Kimmy pursed her lips. (pg. 193)
Kimmy pursed her lips. (pg. 206)
Kimmy pursed her lips. (pg. 220)
I pursed my lips. (pg. 240)
Honourable mentions that I wished I kept track of included nostril flarings and groaning.
I'm so sorry. But please get a thesaurus.
And I still hate Kimmy Tran. Points added to the book for having this line where a suspect refers to Kimmy like this:
"I'd never seen her before, and she seemed chummy-chummy with the bookstore owner and that other short girl who has a chihuahua complex." (pg. 171)
This book was decent if not a little disappointing. There was the whole angle that the murder in real life mirrored the death in Charlene's book. There was even fear that if the sleuth (Lana), police officer (Adam), and private investigator (Lydia) would team up, the PI would die in the process just like in the story. Adam and Lana persuaded Lydia not to get involved and absolutely nothing came out of this fear of one of them dying. Why dangle that threat and not even go there, or imply that it's happening? Even when a slip of paper was found with coordinates to a storage room with highlighted pages of Charlene's book with clues to the next part of the scavenger hunt, that also went no where. Having a murder mimic the murder in a book seemed to be more of a gimmick than something Vivien Chien actually wanted to commit to.
Most disappointing of all was that I guessed who the murderer was right away. I thought it was wild that Lana took her sweet time figuring that out. But I'm not surprised since there were other suspects who were on Lana's radar but everyone in her team took their sweet time looking into them. At least the murderer's motivation was solid.
This would have been a decent enough book, but I really think Vivien Chien needs a new proofreader or editor. I always joke about the amount of times that various characters will smack themselves in the forehead or blow a raspberry. I began keeping track of forehead smackings, but unfortunately forget to keep track of raspberry blowing until it was too late, and noticed the same phrases getting repeated over and over and over and over again. And it was so distracting.
Forehead smacking was kept to a minimal this time:
Cindy smacked herself on the forehead then bent down to collect her inventory. (pg. 9)
If she didn't have my hand, I probably would have smacked myself on the forehead. (pg. 31)
Adam playfully slapped his forehead. (pg. 225)
I smacked my forehead. (pg. 268)
I could have smacked myself in the head right then. (pg. 293)
There was actually an equal amount of winking:
[Paige] ended the sentence with a wink. (pg. 24)
[Charlie] ended the sentence with a playful wink. (pg. 38)
[Charlie] sipped her bottled water, noticed me observing her, and gave me a reassuring wink. (pg. 41)
[Charlie] stood on the opposite side of Kimmy and shot me a quick wink. (pg. 45)
[Ally] gave me a wink, then headed off in search of her friend. (pg. 49)
[Adam] ended the sentence with a wink. (pg. 143)
The amount of time people elbowed someone in the ribs was higher:
Ally elbowed Paige in the ribs. (pg. 24)
Kimmy blurted, flicking her elbow into Cindy's ribs. (pg. 38)
"When this is all cleared up, let's all have dinner," Higgins said, elbowing Adam in the rib. (pg. 63)
Now it was Adam's turn to elbow Higgins in the ribs. (pg. 64)
Kimmy elbowed me in the side of my rib cage. (pg. 117)
[Kimmy] elbowed me in the ribs. (pg. 205)
Kimmy playfully jabbed Megan in the ribs. (pg. 210)
I playfully nudged her with my elbow. (pg. 236)
But then the worse offenders involved clucking tongues:
Kimmy clucked her tongue. (pg. 17)
Anna May clucked her tongue. (pg. 18)
Ally clucked her tongue. (pg. 25)
Kimmy clucked her tongue at me. (pg. 46)
I clucked my tongue. (pg. 65)
[Kimmy] clucked her tongue. (pg. 78)
Megan clucked her tongue. (pg. 100)
Lydia clucked her tongue. (pg. 148)
Tori clucked her tongue. (pg. 171)
I clucked my tongue. (pg. 179)
I clucked my tongue at him before saying to Kimmy, "Maybe let's give it five more minutes?" (pg. 197)
I clucked my tongue. (pg. 211).
Kimmy clucked her tongue. (pg. 240)
Hallie clucked her tongue. (pg. 298)
Followed by pursing lips:
Kimmy pursed her lips and then knelt down to unlock the gate before lifting it up. (pg. 15)
Anna May remained silent but pursed her lips for my benefit. (pg. 20)
Paige pursed her lips in response. (pg. 26)
Cindy pursed her lips as her eyes met mine, and I gave her an apologetic look in return. (pg. 37)
[Kimmy] pursed her lips. (pg. 53)
[Anna May's] brows were furrowed and her lips were pursed. (pg. 58)
Adam pursed his lips. (pg. 64)
Tori pursed her lips. (pg. 172)
Megan pursed her lips. (pg. 178)
Kimmy pursed her lips. (pg. 193)
Kimmy pursed her lips. (pg. 206)
Kimmy pursed her lips. (pg. 220)
I pursed my lips. (pg. 240)
Honourable mentions that I wished I kept track of included nostril flarings and groaning.
I'm so sorry. But please get a thesaurus.
And I still hate Kimmy Tran. Points added to the book for having this line where a suspect refers to Kimmy like this:
"I'd never seen her before, and she seemed chummy-chummy with the bookstore owner and that other short girl who has a chihuahua complex." (pg. 171)
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.
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.
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 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 31, 2026
There was something unnerving about the major info dump from the beginning of the book that could easily have been avoided. Having read all of the books in the series, it was really surprising to see the author depend so heavily on “tell” rather than “show”.
The mystery itself was obvious from the beginning as well, and this book really took a dip in the series overall. Heavily disappointed, and that’s saying something when I keep low expectations to begin with.
The mystery itself was obvious from the beginning as well, and this book really took a dip in the series overall. Heavily disappointed, and that’s saying something when I keep low expectations to begin with.
February 8, 2026
Cindy Kwan, owner of The Modern Scroll, is privileged to host author, Charlene Chan for a signing in honor of her latest book, The Mystery of General Tso. Lana Lee is thrilled when Cindy asks her to be Charlene’s helper for the event. Taking her duties seriously, Lana stays by the author's side to assist when needed. With a line out the door, Cindy is overjoyed at the signing's success. Until the author is found dead in the mystery aisle, clutching a copy of her own book. Lana’s boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, is in charge of the investigation, and feels overwhelmed. For the first time, Adam calls on Lana to help him solve the case. The couple must work together to outwit the murderer and solve the mystery.
This mystery will make you think on your feet until the very last page wondering who the murderer is. I love Lana as an amateur sleuth because she is smart, capable, goofy, and feels very human when she gets herself into binds. Asia Village is an interesting setting, and I can visualize the fountain and the stores surrounding it. Many characters, red herrings and suspects, can come and go, making it great for cozy mysteries. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
This mystery will make you think on your feet until the very last page wondering who the murderer is. I love Lana as an amateur sleuth because she is smart, capable, goofy, and feels very human when she gets herself into binds. Asia Village is an interesting setting, and I can visualize the fountain and the stores surrounding it. Many characters, red herrings and suspects, can come and go, making it great for cozy mysteries. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
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."
March 31, 2026
'Crime Rangoon' is book 12 in the Noodle Shop Mystery series by Vivien Chien. This series always leaves me hungry. Each book in this series is full of humor, romance, murder, and intrigue. If you're looking for a cozy mystery with some light romance and strong female friendships, give this series a try!
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Lana Lee is beyond excited with Cindy Kwan, owner of Asia Village's bookshop, The Modern Scroll, announces that she will be hosting Charlene Chan, a best-sellign author, for a talk and book signing in honor of her latest book, 'The Mystery of General Tso'. She jumps at the change to help Cindy AND to be Charlene's handler for the event. She is essentially Charlene's assistant, staying by her side to handle anything she could possibly need.
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A scream rips through the bookstore during a break in the event. Charlene is lying on the ground, dead in the mystery aisle, holding a copy of her own book. Lana and others are shocked to see how closely the details of this murder match the plot of Charlene's latest book. Lana's boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, is tasked to solve the murder, but soon realizes that he needs Lana and her friends' help to find the killer. Given that reality is matching the book's plot a little too much, they must all work together to find the killer as quickly as possible.
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While I liked this book, it did feel a bit formulaic to me. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed this book, but at times, it felt like the author was holding my hand through the story instead of letting me figure it out on my own. Adam's role in this book also seemed to back off from strict police procedure. He essentially gave up on trying to follow protocol and gave Lana and her friends complete freedom to solve this case. That pushed me out of the story, but not enough for me to stop reading. I plan to keep reading this series though and can't wait to see what hijinks these characters get up to in the future.
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Lana Lee is beyond excited with Cindy Kwan, owner of Asia Village's bookshop, The Modern Scroll, announces that she will be hosting Charlene Chan, a best-sellign author, for a talk and book signing in honor of her latest book, 'The Mystery of General Tso'. She jumps at the change to help Cindy AND to be Charlene's handler for the event. She is essentially Charlene's assistant, staying by her side to handle anything she could possibly need.
.
A scream rips through the bookstore during a break in the event. Charlene is lying on the ground, dead in the mystery aisle, holding a copy of her own book. Lana and others are shocked to see how closely the details of this murder match the plot of Charlene's latest book. Lana's boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, is tasked to solve the murder, but soon realizes that he needs Lana and her friends' help to find the killer. Given that reality is matching the book's plot a little too much, they must all work together to find the killer as quickly as possible.
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While I liked this book, it did feel a bit formulaic to me. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed this book, but at times, it felt like the author was holding my hand through the story instead of letting me figure it out on my own. Adam's role in this book also seemed to back off from strict police procedure. He essentially gave up on trying to follow protocol and gave Lana and her friends complete freedom to solve this case. That pushed me out of the story, but not enough for me to stop reading. I plan to keep reading this series though and can't wait to see what hijinks these characters get up to in the future.
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.
February 22, 2026
Solid entry in the series. I can always count on Chien to deliver a fun read. I've been interested to see Kimmy take a larger role in the books and like how she has transformed as a character-- she hasn't changed so much as have our perceptions of her. The plot was a little off for me, but that's just personal taste. I'm looking forward to the next one!
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
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.
December 2, 2025
#CrimeRangoonANoodleShopMystery #NetGalley is a fantastic addition to this much loved series.
Lana Lee is over the moon since her favorite author is doing a book signing at The Modern Scroll.
Lana will be helping Charlene Chan during the signing.
When the author is found dead, in the mystery aisle of the bookstore, Lana notices that is mimicking the author's book, exactly.
With the help of her best friend Megan and the fun loving Kimmy, the trio set off to find out who killed the author.
Lana Lee is over the moon since her favorite author is doing a book signing at The Modern Scroll.
Lana will be helping Charlene Chan during the signing.
When the author is found dead, in the mystery aisle of the bookstore, Lana notices that is mimicking the author's book, exactly.
With the help of her best friend Megan and the fun loving Kimmy, the trio set off to find out who killed the author.
January 10, 2026
I love this series! Lana is fun and spunky and is, unfortunately, always present at a murder. There wasn’t a ton of relationship development between her and Adam but I enjoy her roommates new plot line.
January 6, 2026
my least favorite of the entire series so far, no character development and the plot felt super flat. kimmy also consistently pmo!
March 19, 2026
3.5 stars!
Another fun entry in the Noodle Shop Mystery books! I really enjoyed that this mystery included the various characters in Lana's life so much more, since Megan, Kimmy, and Adam were much more present in helping to solve the mystery (and they weren't as present in the book before this one). I especially loved Megan and Lana's friendship with each other and the way that they clearly feel so comfortable with each other. And of course, Adam and Lana are adorable together. Protective boyfriends are catnip for me in books! However, once again, I would like to humbly request more sister scenes with Lana and her older sister in the next book.
Like the other books in the series, this was a pretty quick read in terms of the plot, but it was still enjoyable. I was really sus of a couple of the characters early on, and I feel like the author did a pretty good job with the red herring. And I actually read this book so quickly that I didn't spoil myself and look up the ending midway through, which is an accomplishment for me! While I found the motivation for the murder to be a bit weak and sort of silly, the mystery itself was interesting and kept me engaged (I love mysteries having to do with authors, for some reason), which is really all I can ask for in a cozy mystery novel.
On on a side note - at this point, I'm pretty sure that pretty much every single store in this plaza has been involved in a murder. They're driving up the murder rate in Ohio to 300% all on their own!
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See my Noodle Shop Mystery series reviews:
Death by Dumpling (#1) | here
Dim Sum of All Fears (#2) | here
Murder Lo Mein (#3) | here
Wonton Terror (#4) | here
Egg Drop Dead (#5) | here
Killer Kung Pao (#6) | here
Fatal Fried Rice (#7) | here
Hot and Sour Suspects (#8) | here
Misfortune Cookie (#9) | here
Peking Duck and Cover (#10) | here
The Chow Maniac (#11) | here
Crime Rangoon (#12) | here
Five Spice Fatality (#13) | coming soon
Another fun entry in the Noodle Shop Mystery books! I really enjoyed that this mystery included the various characters in Lana's life so much more, since Megan, Kimmy, and Adam were much more present in helping to solve the mystery (and they weren't as present in the book before this one). I especially loved Megan and Lana's friendship with each other and the way that they clearly feel so comfortable with each other. And of course, Adam and Lana are adorable together. Protective boyfriends are catnip for me in books! However, once again, I would like to humbly request more sister scenes with Lana and her older sister in the next book.
Like the other books in the series, this was a pretty quick read in terms of the plot, but it was still enjoyable. I was really sus of a couple of the characters early on, and I feel like the author did a pretty good job with the red herring. And I actually read this book so quickly that I didn't spoil myself and look up the ending midway through, which is an accomplishment for me! While I found the motivation for the murder to be a bit weak and sort of silly, the mystery itself was interesting and kept me engaged (I love mysteries having to do with authors, for some reason), which is really all I can ask for in a cozy mystery novel.
On on a side note - at this point, I'm pretty sure that pretty much every single store in this plaza has been involved in a murder. They're driving up the murder rate in Ohio to 300% all on their own!
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See my Noodle Shop Mystery series reviews:
Death by Dumpling (#1) | here
Dim Sum of All Fears (#2) | here
Murder Lo Mein (#3) | here
Wonton Terror (#4) | here
Egg Drop Dead (#5) | here
Killer Kung Pao (#6) | here
Fatal Fried Rice (#7) | here
Hot and Sour Suspects (#8) | here
Misfortune Cookie (#9) | here
Peking Duck and Cover (#10) | here
The Chow Maniac (#11) | here
Crime Rangoon (#12) | here
Five Spice Fatality (#13) | coming soon
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews