The mystery of who was behind both the murder and the blackmail really kept me on my toes. Of course, because this is a cozy mystery, a murder takes place and Lila once again finds herself trying to help solve it because this time around, her cousin Ronnie seems to be right in the middle of things – it was his wine that may or may not be what killed someone. I just love being back with Lila and the gang and this time, it’s around the holidays so it definitely has a lovely festive vibe without being too overbearing. I used to read quite a few cozy mysteries but for some reason stopped and I’m not sure why…I love a good amateur sleuth and let’s not forget the food! But word of caution, don’t read this on an empty stomach…your mouth will be watering at all the mentions of the delicious food items and drink concoctions Lila and her pals talk about! Manansala’s Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series and I am really enjoying this series.

And there’s no way her flesh and blood could actually be a murderer . . . 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 suspected of murder, and secrets 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 contribute 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. When her long-lost cousin comes back to town just in time for the holidays, Lila Macapagal knows that big trouble can’t be far behind in this new mystery by Mia P. I purchased the audiobook for my own collection. Thank you & Berkley Books, #partner, for the finished copy of Blackmail and Bibingka in exchange for my honest review.

Blackmail and bibingka book