The ways it can cause our actions to be (mis)interpreted and our love to develop. But what I found particularly relatable is the ways in which the fear of disappointing our family can motivate us. Building on the previous books, Blackmail and Bibingka is grounded also in friendship and family. I love the different secrets throughout this book. We can hide secrets out of a desire to protect, out of shame, but also guilt. How someone could be hiding secrets that could be a disaster. I can’t believe Manansala’s mind because there were some serious red herrings! I never read mysteries trying to be the detective, I always just kind of let it happen to me, but I am continuously impressed.Ī theme I enjoyed in Blackmail and Bibingka is the way Manansala examines how much we know about someone. But what always wraps me up in these stories is the sense of mystery. Okay, I love this series, but also like why is everyone accused of murder? I mean, I know that is the point, I’m just like “PEOPLE COME ON stop being suspicious!” Blackmail and Bibingka is always mouth watering, talk about some serious food envy. TW: substance abuse, gambling addiction, emotional abuse, mentions of suicide This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.) (Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. And there’s no way her flesh and blood could actually be a murderer…right? Review Now Lila has to put away years of resentment and distrust to prove her cousin’s innocence. She’s soon proven right when Ronnie is accused of murder, and secrets and rumors surrounding her shady cousin and those involved with the winery start piling up. Tita Rosie is thrilled with the return of her prodigal son, but Lila knows that wherever Ronnie goes, trouble follows. But her cousin Ronnie is back in town after ghosting the family fifteen years ago, claiming that his recent purchase of a local winery shows that he’s back on his feet and ready to give back to the Shady Palms community. And yes, she’s taken the first step in a new romance with her good friend, Jae Park. Sure, her new business, The Brew-ha Cafe, is looking to turn a profit in its first year.

It’s Christmastime in Shady Palms, but things are far from jolly for Lila Macapagal. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts. I have loved this contemporary mystery series because I rarely read any! At the same time, I feel like not only does it deliver fantastic family scenes and mouth watering food, but I love the world Manansala has created. I will never get over the Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series.

Bibingka and blackmail