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Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery #4
Murder and Mamon
When murder mars the grand opening for Lila Macapagal’s aunties’ new laundromat, she will have to air out all the dirty laundry in Shady Palms to catch a killer…
Lila Macapagal's godmothers April, Mae, and June—AKA the Calendar Crew—are celebrating the opening of their latest joint business venture, a new laundromat, to much fanfare (and controversy). However, what should’ve been a joyous occasion quickly turns into a tragedy when they discover the building has been vandalized—and the body of Ninang April’s niece, recently arrived from the Philippines, next to a chilling message painted on the floor. The question is, was the message aimed at the victim or Lila's gossipy godmothers, who have not-so-squeaky-clean reputations?
With Ninang April falling apart from grief and little progress from the Shady Palms Police Department in this slippery case, it’s up to Lila and her network to find justice for the young woman.
The Calendar Crew have stuck their noses into everybody’s business for years, but now the tables are turned as Lila must pry into the Calendar Crew’s lives to figure out who has a vendetta against the (extremely opinionated yet loving) aunties and stop them before they strike again.
Lila Macapagal's godmothers April, Mae, and June—AKA the Calendar Crew—are celebrating the opening of their latest joint business venture, a new laundromat, to much fanfare (and controversy). However, what should’ve been a joyous occasion quickly turns into a tragedy when they discover the building has been vandalized—and the body of Ninang April’s niece, recently arrived from the Philippines, next to a chilling message painted on the floor. The question is, was the message aimed at the victim or Lila's gossipy godmothers, who have not-so-squeaky-clean reputations?
With Ninang April falling apart from grief and little progress from the Shady Palms Police Department in this slippery case, it’s up to Lila and her network to find justice for the young woman.
The Calendar Crew have stuck their noses into everybody’s business for years, but now the tables are turned as Lila must pry into the Calendar Crew’s lives to figure out who has a vendetta against the (extremely opinionated yet loving) aunties and stop them before they strike again.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2023
387 people are currently reading
13881 people want to read
About the author
Mia P. Manansala
10 books4,368 followersMia P. Manansala is a book coach and the author of ARSENIC AND ADOBO (Berkley 2021), the first in the Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery series.
She uses humor (and murder) to explore aspects of the Filipino diaspora, queerness, and her millennial love for pop culture.
She is the winner of the 2018 Hugh Holton Award, the 2018 Eleanor Taylor Bland Crime Fiction Writers of Color Award, the 2017 William F. Deeck - Malice Domestic Grant for Unpublished Writers, and the 2016 Mystery Writers of America/Helen McCloy Scholarship. She's also a 2017 Pitch Wars alum and 2018-2020 mentor.
A lover of all things geeky, Mia spends her days procrastibaking, playing JRPGs and dating sims, reading cozy mysteries, and dreaming of becoming best buds with Wonder Woman and Kamala Khan.
When she’s not sassing her ever-so-patient husband, she’s cuddling her dogs Max Power and Bayley Banks (bonus points to those who get the name references) at her home just outside of Chicago.
Mia is quite the joiner, as she is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Color, Banyan: Asian American Writers Collective, the Chicago Writers Association, and the Chicago Nerd Social Club.
Find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @MPMtheWriter
Or check out her website: www.miapmanansala.com
Represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency
She uses humor (and murder) to explore aspects of the Filipino diaspora, queerness, and her millennial love for pop culture.
She is the winner of the 2018 Hugh Holton Award, the 2018 Eleanor Taylor Bland Crime Fiction Writers of Color Award, the 2017 William F. Deeck - Malice Domestic Grant for Unpublished Writers, and the 2016 Mystery Writers of America/Helen McCloy Scholarship. She's also a 2017 Pitch Wars alum and 2018-2020 mentor.
A lover of all things geeky, Mia spends her days procrastibaking, playing JRPGs and dating sims, reading cozy mysteries, and dreaming of becoming best buds with Wonder Woman and Kamala Khan.
When she’s not sassing her ever-so-patient husband, she’s cuddling her dogs Max Power and Bayley Banks (bonus points to those who get the name references) at her home just outside of Chicago.
Mia is quite the joiner, as she is a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Color, Banyan: Asian American Writers Collective, the Chicago Writers Association, and the Chicago Nerd Social Club.
Find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @MPMtheWriter
Or check out her website: www.miapmanansala.com
Represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,033 reviews
December 24, 2024
API Month
Lila and Jae’s relationship is moving along a little more. I complained during the last installment, which was middling at best. It’s a cozy, so unfortunately no sleepovers. But, I don’t even care about them anymore. I’m invested in Tita Rosie and former Detective Jonathan Park’s noona romance! Give me more.
Oh, so, the mystery. Another unsavory character is murdered. I was already annoyed when she began the story flirting with all of the taken men. Please stop making all women look bad. It’s not a good look. I guessed the murderer pretty early on. It’s obvious if you read the trigger warnings.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley
Lila and Jae’s relationship is moving along a little more. I complained during the last installment, which was middling at best. It’s a cozy, so unfortunately no sleepovers. But, I don’t even care about them anymore. I’m invested in Tita Rosie and former Detective Jonathan Park’s noona romance! Give me more.
Oh, so, the mystery. Another unsavory character is murdered. I was already annoyed when she began the story flirting with all of the taken men. Please stop making all women look bad. It’s not a good look. I guessed the murderer pretty early on. It’s obvious if you read the trigger warnings.
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley
August 19, 2024
I'm addicted to this entertaining cozy mystery series, which follows the adventures of Lila Macapagal and her godmothers, known as the "Calendar Crew": April, Mae, and June. Of course, the mouthwatering, delicious food described in the books is another reason for a foodie like me to devour each chapter. I wish I were a more talented cook to apply the recipes at the end of each book, but at least I have a husband who can practice his culinary skills.
In this new adventure, Lila faces both good news and bad news. The good news is that her family members are not murder suspects in this new installment, but the bad news is that someone is targeting the Calendar Crew and their business. Unfortunately, a young woman's brutal killing affects the entire crew more than they can admit.
As the Calendar Crew plans to celebrate their new business venture, a new laundromat that will play a big part in the Big Spring Clean, some members of their town committee target their store before it even opens for service. They vandalize the place and leave threatening messages written with paint sprays.
Ninang June's posh niece, Divanda, who recently graduated from art school, is sent to Shady Palms by her family to work at the laundromat, even though she doesn't know how to do her own laundry. Her arrival in town raises questions about her involvement in a school scandal, and her flirtatious behavior around every man, including Lila's boyfriend Jae, raises alarms as well. Then, the poor girl is found dead before the laundromat even opens. After spending only two weeks in town, how could she have gained so many enemies? Could she be the victim of a threat targeted at the Calendar Crew, or could her death be related to the scandal she was involved in at school? Could the Calendar Crew's biggest rival, Ultima Bolisay, have gone too far to prevent them from opening a new business?
Lila finds herself reluctantly delving through the secrets to find the perpetrator, even though her boyfriend Jae doesn't want her to put her life in danger again. Lila has every intention of protecting her family no matter what it takes.
It's another entertaining, smart, and delicious journey that made me crave sweet and salty treats during my reading. I consumed gallons of coffee, and I'm sure they are just as good as the drink described in the book. I'm addicted to the series and can't wait to read the next book as well.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this wonderful book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
In this new adventure, Lila faces both good news and bad news. The good news is that her family members are not murder suspects in this new installment, but the bad news is that someone is targeting the Calendar Crew and their business. Unfortunately, a young woman's brutal killing affects the entire crew more than they can admit.
As the Calendar Crew plans to celebrate their new business venture, a new laundromat that will play a big part in the Big Spring Clean, some members of their town committee target their store before it even opens for service. They vandalize the place and leave threatening messages written with paint sprays.
Ninang June's posh niece, Divanda, who recently graduated from art school, is sent to Shady Palms by her family to work at the laundromat, even though she doesn't know how to do her own laundry. Her arrival in town raises questions about her involvement in a school scandal, and her flirtatious behavior around every man, including Lila's boyfriend Jae, raises alarms as well. Then, the poor girl is found dead before the laundromat even opens. After spending only two weeks in town, how could she have gained so many enemies? Could she be the victim of a threat targeted at the Calendar Crew, or could her death be related to the scandal she was involved in at school? Could the Calendar Crew's biggest rival, Ultima Bolisay, have gone too far to prevent them from opening a new business?
Lila finds herself reluctantly delving through the secrets to find the perpetrator, even though her boyfriend Jae doesn't want her to put her life in danger again. Lila has every intention of protecting her family no matter what it takes.
It's another entertaining, smart, and delicious journey that made me crave sweet and salty treats during my reading. I consumed gallons of coffee, and I'm sure they are just as good as the drink described in the book. I'm addicted to the series and can't wait to read the next book as well.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this wonderful book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
February 15, 2025
Murder and Mamon is the 4th-book in Mia P. Manansala's Culinary Cozy Mystery series, Tita Rosie's Kitchen.
This series, set in the town of Shady Palms, follows Lila Macapagal and is full of food, friends and family drama. I have vibed with every book in this series so far and have really enjoyed getting to know Lila, her family and friends.
In this installment, Lila's godmothers, April, Mae and June, lovingly known as the Calendar Crew, are embarking on a fresh business venture; a new laundromat.
Also new is that Ninang April's niece, a recent art school graduate, gets sent from the Philippines to Shady Palms by her family. She'll be staying with Ninang April and the plan is for her to help out at the laundromat.
Instead of the Macapagals celebrating their grand opening though, they find their building vandalized and April's niece lying dead with a threatening message scrawled beside her.
Devastated by all that's occurred, the Aunties are beside themselves with grief and fear. Who would target them like this? According to the threatening message, it appears that perhaps their well-known meddling and gossip may have finally pushed someone over the edge.
With the local police making little progress, Lila feels compelled to begin her own investigation. She'll do whatever she can to protect her family.
With one family member dead, Lila isn't willing to just sit back and risk more.
I really enjoyed this. It was exactly the fun-spirited story that I needed right now. There's just something about returning to a beloved Cozy Mystery series, reuniting with characters that feel like friends and solving oftentimes OTT-cases with them, that I will never grow tired of.
I'm a true sucker for this series. I will never stop reading them. As long as they're published, I'll be picking them up. It's just my kind of Cozy.
While this wasn't my favorite in the series, I do think it is a super strong installment. I liked getting to know even more about the Aunties, as Lila is forced to dig a little more into their personal lives in this one.
I also found the conversations regarding why the victim came to the United States in the first place rather interesting. It involved a bit of a scandal and Lila had to try to figure out the ins-and-outs of that as well.
The mystery had me stumped. I had a lot of suspects, everyone seemed suspicious and I even questioned if the victim was who the killer intended to take out. At the end of the day, it was just a lot of fun. Pure entertainment.
I would recommend this series to any Cozy Mystery fan, particularly if you enjoy Culinary Cozies. There's a lot of food talk in these books, with vivid, mouth-watering descriptions. If you don't walk away hungry, you may not have a soul.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I'm such a fan of this series and am already anticipating the 5th-installment. I cannot even begin to imagine what sort of craziness the Macapagal family is going to get involved in next, but you better believe I want a front row seat!
This series, set in the town of Shady Palms, follows Lila Macapagal and is full of food, friends and family drama. I have vibed with every book in this series so far and have really enjoyed getting to know Lila, her family and friends.
In this installment, Lila's godmothers, April, Mae and June, lovingly known as the Calendar Crew, are embarking on a fresh business venture; a new laundromat.
Also new is that Ninang April's niece, a recent art school graduate, gets sent from the Philippines to Shady Palms by her family. She'll be staying with Ninang April and the plan is for her to help out at the laundromat.
Instead of the Macapagals celebrating their grand opening though, they find their building vandalized and April's niece lying dead with a threatening message scrawled beside her.
Devastated by all that's occurred, the Aunties are beside themselves with grief and fear. Who would target them like this? According to the threatening message, it appears that perhaps their well-known meddling and gossip may have finally pushed someone over the edge.
With the local police making little progress, Lila feels compelled to begin her own investigation. She'll do whatever she can to protect her family.
With one family member dead, Lila isn't willing to just sit back and risk more.
I really enjoyed this. It was exactly the fun-spirited story that I needed right now. There's just something about returning to a beloved Cozy Mystery series, reuniting with characters that feel like friends and solving oftentimes OTT-cases with them, that I will never grow tired of.
I'm a true sucker for this series. I will never stop reading them. As long as they're published, I'll be picking them up. It's just my kind of Cozy.
While this wasn't my favorite in the series, I do think it is a super strong installment. I liked getting to know even more about the Aunties, as Lila is forced to dig a little more into their personal lives in this one.
I also found the conversations regarding why the victim came to the United States in the first place rather interesting. It involved a bit of a scandal and Lila had to try to figure out the ins-and-outs of that as well.
The mystery had me stumped. I had a lot of suspects, everyone seemed suspicious and I even questioned if the victim was who the killer intended to take out. At the end of the day, it was just a lot of fun. Pure entertainment.
I would recommend this series to any Cozy Mystery fan, particularly if you enjoy Culinary Cozies. There's a lot of food talk in these books, with vivid, mouth-watering descriptions. If you don't walk away hungry, you may not have a soul.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I'm such a fan of this series and am already anticipating the 5th-installment. I cannot even begin to imagine what sort of craziness the Macapagal family is going to get involved in next, but you better believe I want a front row seat!
April 25, 2025
personally, i would've moved after the first murder investigation, if not the second, but here we are on murder investigation #4 in shady palms
July 28, 2023
Murder and Mamon is the fourth book in Mia P. Manansala's Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mysteries, a series about a Filipina family in rural/suburban Illinois who own a few different stores. In this installment, Lila's three aunties are having trouble opening their new laundromat soon after one of their nieces arrives for a visit. The young woman has connections to a few people in town, and some of them are angry with the aunties for gossiping about them. The niece ends up murdered just before the opening of the new laundromat. Was it a coincidence or did she have a tie to someone that wanted it severed? Lila investigates, much to the dismay of some people in her life. Filled with elaborate recipes and family dynamics, this is a lovely series with a great setting. Sometimes it's a bit too much for me to handle, in terms of how in-your-face everyone is but some families can be like that. Lila and her boyfriend are progressing nicely yet they do seem a bit boring at times. I would like more scenes with Lola, the grandmother, and Tita Rosie, who seems far too in the backdrop for this to be a series with her name in the title. The mystery was clever and had an element of surprise, but I also wondered whether it needed more drama to give us a stronger reason for the murder. Will definitely continue to read the series.
October 15, 2023
My favorite part of this was the brief mention of my beloved Jeni’s Ice Creams as a must-stop when the MC is in Chicago.
Another installment in this cozy mystery series, but this one felt duller and more stagnant than the others. There seemed to be a lot of filler, and although I enjoy the food descriptions, this one seemed to pack them in everywhere, to the detriment of actual character development and complex plotting. There are so many characters that it gets cluttered, and I’d like to see Lila grow and develop a little more.
Another installment in this cozy mystery series, but this one felt duller and more stagnant than the others. There seemed to be a lot of filler, and although I enjoy the food descriptions, this one seemed to pack them in everywhere, to the detriment of actual character development and complex plotting. There are so many characters that it gets cluttered, and I’d like to see Lila grow and develop a little more.
September 20, 2023
What happened to this series? I got 40 pages in and they were still twittering about food. A third of this book is just filler. It has a lot of similar vibes as Hannah Swensen. I have no idea why Lila is popping such a massive boner about being in a Small Town (tm) when Chicago is within driving distance. It doesn't help that "Shady Palms" is a corny reference to Golden Girls' Shady Pines.
The solid characterizations in the previous installment are gone. We had absolutely NO buildup to Izzy's relationship with the protagonist's cousin, which was very much hyped in the previous installment. I was really looking forward to seeing that develop, and then they just get together off screen. At one point, a character is referred to as a "wallflower." Oh excuse me, I didn't realize this book was set in the 1800s.
The book is stagnant and not very exciting. It was a huge disappointment because the characters are flat and indistinguishable. Every chapter has a new character to not give a crap about. And can we stop with the "Sluttish Whore wants to flirt with all the men"? It's cliché, misogynistic and uninteresting. God forbid a woman should be interested in dating men. "Everybody creams their panties when they see my HAWT boyfriend" is such a tired trope. Almost every chapter, Lila makes a point to mention that someone is slavering over Jae. Lila is also the "insecure" humblebraggy protagonist:
"I choked on my wine. 'Me? Popular? Not really. I mean, you’d think so considering I was Miss Teen Shady Palms back in high school, but really, a lot of that was luck and practice, not popularity.'"
I ONLY won a beauty competition, guys.
This is one of the few BIPOC-centered cozies; it's such a waste to fall back on the same old cliches of flat characters and self-indulgent rhapsodies about food.
The author has no idea about real restaurants and liquor licenses. "I know this isn't usually a BYOB place, but Izzy said yes because it's a special occasion"?! I don't think that's how a real restaurant works. If I understand correctly, the BYOB license is easier to get than the full liquor license.
The book is very sappy. Several minor interpersonal conflicts are resolved instantly or within the same chapter. The protagonist has a generically cute pet with a cutesy name, who loves her boyfriend, but loves her the most, "obvs." The way they wave around the dog like she's God's gift to humanity and so uwu adorable in her wittle cutie pie outfits is nauseating. "Everybody loves my wittle friendly doggie" is another cliche, lazy trope. Lila even tries to charm Jae by dressing up the dog. "I'm going to investigate a murder --look, a cute dog! Be okay with my idiotic decisions because my dog is so cute."
It's good to have the characters talk like humans, but slanginess can get dated quickly. I loathe the protagonist's quirky way of speaking. At one point, she refers to her life as "bananapants." It's annoying and juvenile. Another fabulous quote is "Let's go get our nails did." I think that's what Liz Lemon said on 30 Rock when she was trying to connect with Tracy Jordan and Angie. Another time, she says to someone "pretty sus, huh"? And the person says "what is that?" First, cringey, second, like it's not obvious that that means suspicious.
The writing is just bad. One of the only good jokes in the book was ruined by having the punchline explained right after.
*
“[The coffee's] not that bad,” Nabila said, adding tons of sugar and powdered non-dairy creamer to her cup.
“Yes, that’s why you’re doing everything you can to make sure you don’t actually taste the coffee, right?”
*
I had very little sympathy for the aunties. Of course if you gossip, people's feelings will be hurt, and they will not like you very much! It sounds like they did a terrible amount of damage to their community and people's livelihoods, gossiping about personal and medical information. I know that Lila wants to defend her aunties, but I think she should at least understand why these people are so upset with them. Specifically, when she says "My sympathy only went so far because they were referring to my aunties [as the gossipers].Love how people turn on you so quick in a small town." As Max Black said in Two Broke Girls, "You don't get a bitch pass just because you're old." And I would absolutely be upset if three people with zero business experience had sniped a property I'd had my eye on for years, and copied my own damn business! I was actively rooting against the aunties the whole book. And Lila was so insensitive when she was trying to investigate, way too confrontational and TSTL.
I'm all for dating who you love, but your auntie dating your boyfriend's older brother is way too fucking weird for me. You'd be your own niece.
The solid characterizations in the previous installment are gone. We had absolutely NO buildup to Izzy's relationship with the protagonist's cousin, which was very much hyped in the previous installment. I was really looking forward to seeing that develop, and then they just get together off screen. At one point, a character is referred to as a "wallflower." Oh excuse me, I didn't realize this book was set in the 1800s.
The book is stagnant and not very exciting. It was a huge disappointment because the characters are flat and indistinguishable. Every chapter has a new character to not give a crap about. And can we stop with the "Sluttish Whore wants to flirt with all the men"? It's cliché, misogynistic and uninteresting. God forbid a woman should be interested in dating men. "Everybody creams their panties when they see my HAWT boyfriend" is such a tired trope. Almost every chapter, Lila makes a point to mention that someone is slavering over Jae. Lila is also the "insecure" humblebraggy protagonist:
"I choked on my wine. 'Me? Popular? Not really. I mean, you’d think so considering I was Miss Teen Shady Palms back in high school, but really, a lot of that was luck and practice, not popularity.'"
I ONLY won a beauty competition, guys.
This is one of the few BIPOC-centered cozies; it's such a waste to fall back on the same old cliches of flat characters and self-indulgent rhapsodies about food.
The author has no idea about real restaurants and liquor licenses. "I know this isn't usually a BYOB place, but Izzy said yes because it's a special occasion"?! I don't think that's how a real restaurant works. If I understand correctly, the BYOB license is easier to get than the full liquor license.
The book is very sappy. Several minor interpersonal conflicts are resolved instantly or within the same chapter. The protagonist has a generically cute pet with a cutesy name, who loves her boyfriend, but loves her the most, "obvs." The way they wave around the dog like she's God's gift to humanity and so uwu adorable in her wittle cutie pie outfits is nauseating. "Everybody loves my wittle friendly doggie" is another cliche, lazy trope. Lila even tries to charm Jae by dressing up the dog. "I'm going to investigate a murder --look, a cute dog! Be okay with my idiotic decisions because my dog is so cute."
It's good to have the characters talk like humans, but slanginess can get dated quickly. I loathe the protagonist's quirky way of speaking. At one point, she refers to her life as "bananapants." It's annoying and juvenile. Another fabulous quote is "Let's go get our nails did." I think that's what Liz Lemon said on 30 Rock when she was trying to connect with Tracy Jordan and Angie. Another time, she says to someone "pretty sus, huh"? And the person says "what is that?" First, cringey, second, like it's not obvious that that means suspicious.
The writing is just bad. One of the only good jokes in the book was ruined by having the punchline explained right after.
*
“[The coffee's] not that bad,” Nabila said, adding tons of sugar and powdered non-dairy creamer to her cup.
“Yes, that’s why you’re doing everything you can to make sure you don’t actually taste the coffee, right?”
*
I had very little sympathy for the aunties. Of course if you gossip, people's feelings will be hurt, and they will not like you very much! It sounds like they did a terrible amount of damage to their community and people's livelihoods, gossiping about personal and medical information. I know that Lila wants to defend her aunties, but I think she should at least understand why these people are so upset with them. Specifically, when she says "My sympathy only went so far because they were referring to my aunties [as the gossipers].Love how people turn on you so quick in a small town." As Max Black said in Two Broke Girls, "You don't get a bitch pass just because you're old." And I would absolutely be upset if three people with zero business experience had sniped a property I'd had my eye on for years, and copied my own damn business! I was actively rooting against the aunties the whole book. And Lila was so insensitive when she was trying to investigate, way too confrontational and TSTL.
I'm all for dating who you love, but your auntie dating your boyfriend's older brother is way too fucking weird for me. You'd be your own niece.
March 3, 2024
The calendar crew gets in hot water when they are the gossip fodder for once. Past gossip victims are celebrating seeing the karma coming around to them, but it comes with the cost of a life and potentially a new business venture. Can they be humbled for once?
I was disappointed that Lila's fun pups were not more significant parts of the story, especially since one appears on the cover.
The mystery was pretty good, and it was fun to see Lila get to have the familiar relationship grow in strength.
However, it didn't feel as intimate with the other characters; I didn't feel as pulled into the story as I usually am.
I am still excited for future adventures with delicious food on display.
3.5 stars rounded up.
I was disappointed that Lila's fun pups were not more significant parts of the story, especially since one appears on the cover.
The mystery was pretty good, and it was fun to see Lila get to have the familiar relationship grow in strength.
However, it didn't feel as intimate with the other characters; I didn't feel as pulled into the story as I usually am.
I am still excited for future adventures with delicious food on display.
3.5 stars rounded up.
November 22, 2025
I am a huge fan of the Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery series by Mia P. Manansala and I have to say that I think Murder and Mamon is the best yet! In this installment, there is drama/murder at a laundromat instead of the restaurant, and this was another fun but insightful look into Filipino culture. I love this world that Manansala has created, and The Calendar Crew consists of 3 of my favorite characters (Lila's godmothers). You wouldn't necessarily have to read these in order, but I recommend it, so you really get to know who everyone is and see their development as this series goes on. Lila is on a mission to solve the murder along with just a little bit of help, and I ended up being really surprised by the culprit!
Danice Cabanela blew me away yet again with her narration for the audiobook and at this point, this cozy mystery series feels like wrapping myself in a fuzzy blanket I love it so dang much. The pacing is perfect, and the storyline is thought-provoking yet hilarious at the same time. The way Manansala describes the food in this book is absolutely mouth-watering, and despite the food taking more of a backseat this time around, there are still recipes at the back of the book and plenty of talk about Filipino cuisine. Triggers are noted at the beginning of the book/audiobook if you need to know them, and the blend of mystery, humor, and serious topics was top-notch. I highly recommend Murder and Mamon to my cozy fans out there and anyone who loves reading about a different culture along with their murder mysteries.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Danice Cabanela blew me away yet again with her narration for the audiobook and at this point, this cozy mystery series feels like wrapping myself in a fuzzy blanket I love it so dang much. The pacing is perfect, and the storyline is thought-provoking yet hilarious at the same time. The way Manansala describes the food in this book is absolutely mouth-watering, and despite the food taking more of a backseat this time around, there are still recipes at the back of the book and plenty of talk about Filipino cuisine. Triggers are noted at the beginning of the book/audiobook if you need to know them, and the blend of mystery, humor, and serious topics was top-notch. I highly recommend Murder and Mamon to my cozy fans out there and anyone who loves reading about a different culture along with their murder mysteries.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 14, 2023
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher (Berkley Books) for promotional purposes.
What an entertaining cozy mystery!
I just have to preface this review by saying I haven’t read the previous 3 books in the series so I cannot say how it compares to the other books. Being Filipino, I’ve had my eye on this series for a long time, so when I had the opportunity to read one of the books, I took it. I was able to read and enjoy the book as a standalone, although I was a little lost in the beginning with all the characters, but I quickly got up to speed.
The best part of the story is the use of Filipino culture. It’s so representative of it, particularly how nosy and meddling some Filipino ninangs and titas can be. I also loved that there was a glossary and pronunciation guide at the beginning, for those unfamiliar with Filipino words, phrases, and food.
I also loved the characters. Lila, her friends, her family. I adored them all! They really made this a “cozy” mystery. Also, her dachshund, Longganisa (genius name), wore clothes and just sounded like the cutest dog ever.
As for the story, the mystery was a little basic for me. I would have loved to have seen more twists and turns.
Overall, I enjoyed this Filipino murder mystery. I’m definitely going to have to read the first 3 books!
What an entertaining cozy mystery!
I just have to preface this review by saying I haven’t read the previous 3 books in the series so I cannot say how it compares to the other books. Being Filipino, I’ve had my eye on this series for a long time, so when I had the opportunity to read one of the books, I took it. I was able to read and enjoy the book as a standalone, although I was a little lost in the beginning with all the characters, but I quickly got up to speed.
The best part of the story is the use of Filipino culture. It’s so representative of it, particularly how nosy and meddling some Filipino ninangs and titas can be. I also loved that there was a glossary and pronunciation guide at the beginning, for those unfamiliar with Filipino words, phrases, and food.
I also loved the characters. Lila, her friends, her family. I adored them all! They really made this a “cozy” mystery. Also, her dachshund, Longganisa (genius name), wore clothes and just sounded like the cutest dog ever.
As for the story, the mystery was a little basic for me. I would have loved to have seen more twists and turns.
Overall, I enjoyed this Filipino murder mystery. I’m definitely going to have to read the first 3 books!
April 18, 2023
It's rare that the character arcs in the fourth book are even stronger than the first! Each of the Tita Rosie's Kitchen mysteries adds new dimensions to each character and how they relate to the crimes they were involved in.
It was refreshing for the Calendar Crew to be front and center and have to do some hard thinking of their own and the novel has interesting and important things to say about perspective and how we deal with guilt.
As always, it's such a joy to hang out with Lila and her growing community and refreshing that she has such a positive, supportive relationship. There is, of course, the suspension of disbelief that comes with one family being exposed to so much murder but we're accustomed to that with cozy mystery series. Further, I have a theory that this book might offer an opening for Lila to continue sleuthing without it needing to be so close to home... We'll see if I'm right!
I haven't tried the recipes at the end of the book yet, but definitely plan to soon!
Anyway, the novel was a complete joy from beginning to end and such a perfect read for me on vacation!
It was refreshing for the Calendar Crew to be front and center and have to do some hard thinking of their own and the novel has interesting and important things to say about perspective and how we deal with guilt.
As always, it's such a joy to hang out with Lila and her growing community and refreshing that she has such a positive, supportive relationship. There is, of course, the suspension of disbelief that comes with one family being exposed to so much murder but we're accustomed to that with cozy mystery series. Further, I have a theory that this book might offer an opening for Lila to continue sleuthing without it needing to be so close to home... We'll see if I'm right!
I haven't tried the recipes at the end of the book yet, but definitely plan to soon!
Anyway, the novel was a complete joy from beginning to end and such a perfect read for me on vacation!
April 13, 2023
Thank you Mia P. Manansala, Berkley, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
When murder mars the grand opening for Lila Macapagal's aunties' new laundromat, she will have to air out all the dirty laundry in Shady Palms to catch a killer... Lila Macapagal's godmothers April, Mae, and June-AKA the Calendar Crew-are celebrating the opening of their latest joint business venture, a new laundromat, to much fanfare (and controversy). However, what should've been a joyous occasion quickly turns into a tragedy when they discover the building has been vandalized
-and the body of Ninang April's niece, recently arrived from the Philippines, next to a chilling message painted on the floor. The question is, was the message aimed at the victim or Lila's gossipy godmothers, who have not-so-squeaky-clean reputations? With Ninang April falling apart from grief and little progress from the Shady Palms Police Department in this slippery case, it's up to Lila and her network to find justice for the young woman. The Calendar Crew have stuck their noses into everybody's business for years, but now the tables are turned as Lila must pry into the Calendar Crew's lives to figure out who has a vendetta against the (extremely opinionated yet loving) aunties and stop them before they strike again.
Mia P. Manansala is my favorite cozy mystery writer! I love the representation in the Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series, especially the representation of Filipino Culture! This series gets better with every book. The author gives just enough clues, that makes you feel like you’re solving the mystery alongside Lila and her crew of family and friends. I didn’t want to put this book down and finished it in a day. I can’t wait to read about Lila’s next mystery!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When murder mars the grand opening for Lila Macapagal's aunties' new laundromat, she will have to air out all the dirty laundry in Shady Palms to catch a killer... Lila Macapagal's godmothers April, Mae, and June-AKA the Calendar Crew-are celebrating the opening of their latest joint business venture, a new laundromat, to much fanfare (and controversy). However, what should've been a joyous occasion quickly turns into a tragedy when they discover the building has been vandalized
-and the body of Ninang April's niece, recently arrived from the Philippines, next to a chilling message painted on the floor. The question is, was the message aimed at the victim or Lila's gossipy godmothers, who have not-so-squeaky-clean reputations? With Ninang April falling apart from grief and little progress from the Shady Palms Police Department in this slippery case, it's up to Lila and her network to find justice for the young woman. The Calendar Crew have stuck their noses into everybody's business for years, but now the tables are turned as Lila must pry into the Calendar Crew's lives to figure out who has a vendetta against the (extremely opinionated yet loving) aunties and stop them before they strike again.
Mia P. Manansala is my favorite cozy mystery writer! I love the representation in the Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series, especially the representation of Filipino Culture! This series gets better with every book. The author gives just enough clues, that makes you feel like you’re solving the mystery alongside Lila and her crew of family and friends. I didn’t want to put this book down and finished it in a day. I can’t wait to read about Lila’s next mystery!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 23, 2023
This is the fourth book in the series and though I didn’t read books 2 & 3, I didn’t have any trouble reading this one or catching up with the characters from book 1, so I think that it could also be read as a stand alone. While you would benefit most from the series, it can still be enjoyed by itself.
It’s an extremely food centric cozy mystery and every other page mentions unusual coffees, teas, desserts, etc that the average person wouldn’t be familiar with but those from a Phillipine background may be familiar with.
This time Lila is investigating the death of her visiting cousin, Divina, who is the niece of one of the Calender Crew Aunties. The aunties have opened up a laundromat and it has been vandalized as well with the same message that was left at the site of Davina’s body, so it makes the investigation doubly personal for Lila.
Perfect for readers who like: books about food, amateur detectives and family drama.
Thanks to Berkley Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
It’s an extremely food centric cozy mystery and every other page mentions unusual coffees, teas, desserts, etc that the average person wouldn’t be familiar with but those from a Phillipine background may be familiar with.
This time Lila is investigating the death of her visiting cousin, Divina, who is the niece of one of the Calender Crew Aunties. The aunties have opened up a laundromat and it has been vandalized as well with the same message that was left at the site of Davina’s body, so it makes the investigation doubly personal for Lila.
Perfect for readers who like: books about food, amateur detectives and family drama.
Thanks to Berkley Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
October 9, 2023
Least favorite installment for sure. I figured out the killer at the 50% mark but all my elaborate theories were tossed aside for a lackluster explanation.
One of the best parts from the first two books was the Filipino cuisine but the food descriptions are now taking up more space than the mystery. I once praised the characterization especially for the genre but now there are too many overly peppy characters who don't really add anything. Im so tired of reading about women wetting themselves whenever they see Jae. And Lila had at least 3 childish outbursts that had me like ??? 😳
It was also super weird of Lila and Jonathan to call the ninangs gossiping "admirable" since their intentions were good....... There were several scenes I hoped they'd reprimand them or make them take accountability or just understand when to stop. A little chismis is fine but these titas are toxic.
I'm not giving up on this series yet (and at least they're fast)
One of the best parts from the first two books was the Filipino cuisine but the food descriptions are now taking up more space than the mystery. I once praised the characterization especially for the genre but now there are too many overly peppy characters who don't really add anything. Im so tired of reading about women wetting themselves whenever they see Jae. And Lila had at least 3 childish outbursts that had me like ??? 😳
It was also super weird of Lila and Jonathan to call the ninangs gossiping "admirable" since their intentions were good....... There were several scenes I hoped they'd reprimand them or make them take accountability or just understand when to stop. A little chismis is fine but these titas are toxic.
I'm not giving up on this series yet (and at least they're fast)
January 23, 2024
Another mystery solved by Lila and the crew!
One of the things I love most about this series is all of the recipes shared and I am claiming myself President of the "We Need a Tita Rosie's Kitchen Series Cookbook" crew!!
This time the mystery was around the calendar crew, AKA Lila's aunt's April, May and June and the mysterious death of April's niece. I listened to this on audio and the narrator did a fantastic job as always of keeping the story light-hearted but intense. I couldn't quite figure out who the killer was as easily this time and I rather enjoyed being in the dark more.
Also, I enjoyed the character development of some of the supporting characters throughout the story. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
One of the things I love most about this series is all of the recipes shared and I am claiming myself President of the "We Need a Tita Rosie's Kitchen Series Cookbook" crew!!
This time the mystery was around the calendar crew, AKA Lila's aunt's April, May and June and the mysterious death of April's niece. I listened to this on audio and the narrator did a fantastic job as always of keeping the story light-hearted but intense. I couldn't quite figure out who the killer was as easily this time and I rather enjoyed being in the dark more.
Also, I enjoyed the character development of some of the supporting characters throughout the story. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
December 9, 2023
coziness and food descriptions 10/10, but Lila annoys me more and more each book idk
December 21, 2023
This series of books continues to be… not good, yet I can’t stop reading them.
April 15, 2023
The standout feature of this series, among many wonderful attributes, is the complexity of the characters. So often in cozy mysteries over a long series, characterization is sacrificed for plot. Manansala's characters are allowed to grow and change from book to book, a remarkable feat in a genre that can value sameness across titles, and I say that as a lover of cozies. This time we meet a murder victim who is very gray morally, instead of the typical everyone-hated-them-because-they-were-awful trope. Readers are allowed to feel sad about the loss, even as we learn about the past mistakes that led to their death. Another pitfall this series avoids is copaganda. The police department is mostly a joke by this point, and the people we met and liked who were initially affiliated with the authorities have all since left because of the way the department is run. Lila and her friends rely on themselves to solve the cases that come before them now, and the series is better for it. Last but certainly not least, the vivid descriptions of food are, to borrow a phrase, icing on the cake. The way the community of Shady Palms connects over foods from their various cultures is a joy to read about. I am so thrilled by the author's note indicating that we will be seeing more from this group, and I look forward to reading whatever else Mia P. Manansala decides to write.
Netgalley provided me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Netgalley provided me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
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July 8, 2024Thrilled this series is continuing!
July 12, 2024
Another heartfelt cozy mystery from Mia P Manansala that features amazingly delicious recipes and a close-knit Filipino American family set in Shady Palms. This books sees Lila’s godmothers opening a new laundromat only to have it marred by a dead body of one of the women’s nieces, recently arrived from the Philippines.
Good on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Jennifer J Chow and Jesse Q Sustanto. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Good on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Jennifer J Chow and Jesse Q Sustanto. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review.
September 25, 2023
A cozy mystery filled with murder, family, friendship & yummy food!
Murder and Mamon is Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery book 4. I love this cozy mystery series. The amateur sleuths, the meddling aunties and godmothers, the friendships, the sweet romances and all the yummy sounding Filipino food honestly wrap you up like a well loved blanket.
In Murder and Mamon Lila and crew are faced with a death and an accident that involves the beloved Calendar Crew - April, Mae and June. Has this gossiping threesome finally gone too far? With messages telling them to mind their business and one of the Calendar Crew ending up in the hospital, Can Lila and ex-Detective Park find the culorit before someone else ends up dead?
This was another great addition to this series. I love getting to know the characters more over each new mystery. Each book celebrates the strong bonds of family and friendship. Plus, I'm a fan of all the relationships. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, you won't want to miss out on this series.
Murder and Mamon is Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery book 4. I love this cozy mystery series. The amateur sleuths, the meddling aunties and godmothers, the friendships, the sweet romances and all the yummy sounding Filipino food honestly wrap you up like a well loved blanket.
In Murder and Mamon Lila and crew are faced with a death and an accident that involves the beloved Calendar Crew - April, Mae and June. Has this gossiping threesome finally gone too far? With messages telling them to mind their business and one of the Calendar Crew ending up in the hospital, Can Lila and ex-Detective Park find the culorit before someone else ends up dead?
This was another great addition to this series. I love getting to know the characters more over each new mystery. Each book celebrates the strong bonds of family and friendship. Plus, I'm a fan of all the relationships. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, you won't want to miss out on this series.
September 25, 2023
Happy Fall Y’all! I’m here with one of my latest reads, this cute cozy mstery, guaranteed to make you hungry after reading.
📖𝗠𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻
✍️𝗠𝗶𝗮 𝗣. 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗮𝗹𝗮
🗓️𝟵.𝟭𝟵.𝟮𝟯
🔎𝗖𝗼𝘇𝘆 𝗠𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆
★★★★
💭𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
I’m fairly new to reading cozy mysteries, but I have really enjoyed the 𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙖 𝙍𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙚’𝙨 𝙆𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙈𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙮 series. This is the fourth book in the series, and it can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading them all. I love how each book has a cast of funny characters, and is paired with a murder investigation and layered with Filipino culture and recipes.
🎧 I read the physical book with the audio, and loved the narrator, Danice Cabanela, who brings Lila to life with her narration.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧
🥧delicious food descriptions
🔎amateur sleuthing
🥧mouth watering recipes
🔎themes of family
*many thanks to Berkley Pub, PRH Audio and Netgalley for the gifted copy for review
📖𝗠𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻
✍️𝗠𝗶𝗮 𝗣. 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗮𝗹𝗮
🗓️𝟵.𝟭𝟵.𝟮𝟯
🔎𝗖𝗼𝘇𝘆 𝗠𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆
★★★★
💭𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
I’m fairly new to reading cozy mysteries, but I have really enjoyed the 𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙖 𝙍𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙚’𝙨 𝙆𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙈𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙮 series. This is the fourth book in the series, and it can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend reading them all. I love how each book has a cast of funny characters, and is paired with a murder investigation and layered with Filipino culture and recipes.
🎧 I read the physical book with the audio, and loved the narrator, Danice Cabanela, who brings Lila to life with her narration.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧
🥧delicious food descriptions
🔎amateur sleuthing
🥧mouth watering recipes
🔎themes of family
*many thanks to Berkley Pub, PRH Audio and Netgalley for the gifted copy for review
November 26, 2023
2023 reads: 363/350
this is the fourth book in the tita rosie’s kitchen mystery series.
lila and the calendar crew thought they were safe from more scandal, but the murder of a family member stains the grand opening of their new laundromat, and they’re left to wonder why. lila quickly puts her detective cap back on to find justice and keep her godmothers safe.
after reading the first three books this january, i thought this series was done, so i was pleasantly surprised to find out there’d be more! i liked getting to see lila and jae’s relationship progress a bit more, but i also appreciate how it’s far from the main focus. i loved the mystery, including the backstory of the character, since lila barely got to know her before her murder.
i highly recommend this to those who enjoyed the previous books!
this is the fourth book in the tita rosie’s kitchen mystery series.
lila and the calendar crew thought they were safe from more scandal, but the murder of a family member stains the grand opening of their new laundromat, and they’re left to wonder why. lila quickly puts her detective cap back on to find justice and keep her godmothers safe.
after reading the first three books this january, i thought this series was done, so i was pleasantly surprised to find out there’d be more! i liked getting to see lila and jae’s relationship progress a bit more, but i also appreciate how it’s far from the main focus. i loved the mystery, including the backstory of the character, since lila barely got to know her before her murder.
i highly recommend this to those who enjoyed the previous books!
August 19, 2024
Rating: 4 stars
I've been enjoying the Tita Rosie Kitchen Mystery cozy mystery series so far. The cast of quirky characters and delicious food descriptions works well with the plot lines and I'm so glad I found this series :) I will say that most of the books in this series have been a solid 4 stars with the exception of the second book "Homicide and Halo-Halo" which I gave a 3 stars but 3 stars isn't awful in my book. I'm so excited to get my hands on "Guilt and Ginataan" when it releases in November of this year- the plot of it already sounds so captivating, not to mention that this series has got me craving Filipino food. No matter how many books Mia Manansala adds to this series, you can count on me to stay for the ride 🤩
I've been enjoying the Tita Rosie Kitchen Mystery cozy mystery series so far. The cast of quirky characters and delicious food descriptions works well with the plot lines and I'm so glad I found this series :) I will say that most of the books in this series have been a solid 4 stars with the exception of the second book "Homicide and Halo-Halo" which I gave a 3 stars but 3 stars isn't awful in my book. I'm so excited to get my hands on "Guilt and Ginataan" when it releases in November of this year- the plot of it already sounds so captivating, not to mention that this series has got me craving Filipino food. No matter how many books Mia Manansala adds to this series, you can count on me to stay for the ride 🤩
September 22, 2023
The first book was a novelty, but they’ve just gotten more and more ridiculous since.
June 23, 2025
'Murder and Mamon' is the fourth book in 'Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery' series.
As always, the book is filled with good food (with recipes being included in the end!), a feel good mood, and an interesting murder case.
The book doesn't offer much progress in Lila's life, but it was nice to learn more about her family and friends and her social circle. Also, the mystery was intriguing, but the ending was kind of rushed and convenient.
Finally, the audiobook was well narrated.
As always, the book is filled with good food (with recipes being included in the end!), a feel good mood, and an interesting murder case.
The book doesn't offer much progress in Lila's life, but it was nice to learn more about her family and friends and her social circle. Also, the mystery was intriguing, but the ending was kind of rushed and convenient.
Finally, the audiobook was well narrated.
September 26, 2023
Love this author and her characters! Lila is back with her band of friends and aunties for hey another adventure. This time, the crime hits even closer to home, and Lila must decide, should she investigate again?
June 25, 2023
I love a good cozy mystery. It is a go to genre for when I need to relax. This is the fourth installment in the Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery series. The book follows Lila Macapagal and her extended family. Lila owns an adorable coffee shop/bakery. Her mom owns the restaurant to one side. Her godmothers are opening a laundromat on the other side. With all the assorted friends and relatives, it was a lot of people to keep track of. There was a lot of eating and drinking which made me hungry. The mystery was interesting. I didn't figure out the killer until near the end.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
September 25, 2023
So many characters, so little character development.
We get it, her boyfriend is attractive. It’s probably not a great sign when you find yourself hoping the main character in a series gets murdered. Spoiler alert: she doesn’t.
We get it, her boyfriend is attractive. It’s probably not a great sign when you find yourself hoping the main character in a series gets murdered. Spoiler alert: she doesn’t.
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