A review by theblushbookworm
Blackmail and Bibingka by Mia P. Manansala

funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

I really like Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mysteries for their lighthearted simplicity. In “Blackmail and Bibingka”, Lila’s cousin Ronnie is back in Shady Palms, becoming the latest Macapagal ensnared in a murder investigation. Lila remains ever nosy and inserts herself into the investigation with lots of snarky judgement towards her cousin. I always enjoy the humor in this series, though sometimes it’s a little cringe for my taste (looking at you Adeena), and “Blackmail and Bibingka” is back to a lighter humor and topic like “Arsenic and Adobo”. I listened to this book as an audiobook and listening really brought the characters to life, especially Tita Rosie, Lola Flor, and the Calendar Crew. These mysteries are perfect for a reading slump or someone trying to get into reading! 
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