Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murders by Jesse Q. Sutanto

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Pages: 352 pages
Published: March 2023

Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers was my first read by Jesse Q. Sutanto, and I picked it up to read along with the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club. I'm so glad I did. This cozy mystery brings together a lively community of San Francisco residents who are all connected by a suspicious death that occurred in the titular character's tea shop. What follows if less about the murder and more about the relationships and healing that result from the unexpected tragedy. 

I respected how this novel explored themes of estranged family members, ageism, and the universal desire to belong. Vera is a wonderfully quirky character, who might seem overbearing at first, but whose quirks become an endearing part of her personality. As the central literary figure, she becomes the glue that holds this mismatched community together. Sutanto beautifully illustrates how community can emerge from the most diverse group of people an unlikely circumstances. The connection, rather than the answer to the mystery, becomes the integral component of healing for all the individuals touched by this death. 

Another aspect I really appreciated was how prominently the Asian culture was woven throughout the story. From traditions to family dynamics to language and humor, the culture richness added depth and authenticity from the author. It was a nice reminder that fiction, while imagined, can be based in fact and a powerful teacher by offering a window to experiences, histories, and identities that may be different from our own. 

And bonus! As a foodie, I was drooling at the descriptions of Asian cuisine. I found myself craving noodles, dumplings, and the speciality teas as described by the Sutanto. There is emotional power in food, and the author used this device in her storytelling to show how food comforts, connects, and communicates love without saying a word. Cooking for someone is its own kind of tenderness. 

Recommendation: This cozy mystery has heart, humor, and a strong sense of community and friendship. It's culturally rich and full of memorable characters. And the best part? You don't have to leave Vera behind once you're finished. There's a second book, Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man), and you guessed it, it's on my list to read soon! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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The Phoenix Pencil Company by Allison King

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 368 pages
Published: June 2025

The Phoenix Pencil Company marks a stunning debut for Allison King, and reading it throughout August was a true delight. I believe King has a long writing career ahead of her, and I'm thankful for this recommendation from the Modern Mrs. Darcy Book Club.

The story revolves around Monica, the main character, who spends most of her time on the computer working on the EMBRS project as part of her collegiate studies in the northeastern part of the United States. During her research, she unexpectedly connects with Louise who is studying nearby and had previously met with Meng in Shanghai while traveling abroad. Meng is the cousin of Monica's ailing grandmother. Together and through various epistolary communication methods, these four women weave a narrative that is rich and magical, bridging the past and present. The result is an inspirational and emotional story of love, loss, and restoring familial legacies through storytelling. 

King's writing style includes rich descriptions that tug on the heartstrings on the reader. She effortlessly immerses the reader into the enchanting world of The Phoenix Pencil Company crafting a narrative that explores survival during tumultuous times. The contemporary conflict between Monica and Louise, who develop a romantic relationship, is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, making it an important aspect of the story. 

Recommendation: I found this novel to be heartfelt, creative, and meaningful. I am glad I read it, as it broadened my understanding of the historical challenges of the Asian community and highlighted the transformative power of communication. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a touching and enriching literary experience. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen

Rating: 4 of 5 stars 

Pages: 336 pages
Published: January 2023

Lunar Love by Lauren Kung Jessen is the perfect meet-cute to read at the beginning of the Lunar New Year, and that's exactly when I picked up this book from Book of the Month. The story features protagonist Olivia "Liv" Huang Christenson, a multi-racial young entrepreneur who is on the cusp of taking over her grandmother and aunt's face-to-face, professional matchmaking business when by happenstance she meets Bennett O'Brien, also a multi-racial young entrepreneur who is trying to launch a dating app that mimics  Liv's family busy and is threatening to destroy her family's decades-long legacy. Thinking there won't be room for both businesses in the matchmaking space, the two entrepreneur's strike a deal — that each can find love for the other on their matchmaking platform, and whomever loses will give up their business. 

Romcoms like Lunar Love are perfect because you know how they're going to end. The fun in the romance is the journey from the initial meeting to the end. This book, like many in the genre, was a light read and did not disappoint. I enjoyed not only the developing relationship between Liv and Bennett but also learning about their families, culture and the very realistic baggage they carried. 

Recommendation: I found this book to be a fun yet realistic story that touched on some deeper themes like cultural isolation, fitting in, and imposter syndrome. It was one of my first reads of the new year and perfect for leading up to Valentine's Day effectively using the Lunar New Year as a solid plot device. It could easily be devoured in an uninterrupted weekend. Highly recommend! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pages: 307 pages
Published: May 4 2021

Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala is a spicy and fun cozy mystery that I snagged via my Book of the Month subscription. The book centers around Lila Macapagal, her family, friends, and the folks in her small hometown she returns to after she finds her fiancé cheating on her with their next-door neighbors (yes, neighborS) in Chicago. While back in town, she attempts to help revive her aunt's failing restaurant. As if that wasn't challenging enough, Lila has to face another ex-boyfriend from high school, Derek Winter, who is a local restaurant critic and who can't seem to give Lila and her aunt a break from negative food critiques. When things seem as though they can't get any worse, Derek experiences a health episode at the restaurant and later dies at the hospital as a result of it. Lila and her family are now suspects in his death. Together, with the help of some friends and community members, Lila attempts to to solve the mystery before her aunt's restaurant (and only form of livelihood) is closed ... for good! 

This book has all the makings of the light murder mystery genre, known as a cozy. What gives it depth is the inclusion of the Asian American community and the cultural contributions of the members of that community. I also appreciated the abundant and strong female characters in the book. The plot is easy to follow, making the book a relatively quick read. I think most readers could finish it in a day or two. The only thing that slowed me down is I continually had to reference the glossary and pronunciation guide in the front of the book as well as look up some words that were not provided. Having said that, I think this book might be easier read via audio or eReader, where you can either hear or quickly look up phrases with a simple click. 

Recommendation: Summer is just around the corner, and this would be a great beach read. Just make sure you have something to munch on nearby. The author provides vivid descriptions of the cuisine with some recipes in the back to try on your own! 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

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