Blackmail and Bibingka

By: Mia P. Manansala

Narrated by: Danice Cabanela

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. Manansala, author of Arsenic and Adobo.

It’s Christmastime in Shady Palms, but things are far from jolly for Lila Macapagal. Sure, her new business, the Brew-ha Cafe, is looking to turn a profit in its first year. And yes, she’s taken the first step in a new romance with her good friend Jae Park. 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. Tita Rosie is thrilled with the return of her prodigal son, but Lila knows that wherever Ronnie goes, trouble follows.

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. Now Lila has to put away years of resentment and distrust to prove her cousin’s innocence. He may be a jerk, but he’s still family. And there’s no way her flesh and blood could actually be a murderer . . . right?

Critic reviews

"The perfect cozy and lighthearted mystery."—The Washington Post

"Hands down the tastiest whodunit you’ll consume this year."—Kirkus Reviews

"Filipino American culture and family take centerstage in the third mystery by Agatha Award–winning Manansala (Homicide and Halo-Halo; Arsenic and Adobo). There’s an emphasis on humor, friendship, and food in this cozy that’s lighter in tone than the previous ones.”—Library Journal

"Manansala’s breezy style makes for another brisk entry in this flavorful series, recipes included. Readers will be hungry for more.”—Publishers Weekly

“Blackmail and Bibingka spins on well-devised twists, and readers will savor myriad descriptions of Filipino dishes.”—Florida Sun-Sentinel

Fun and Entertaining

This is a fun and entertaining cozy mystery with engaging characters and an entertaining plot. I look forward to the next book.

Love this series

I have loved this series. This was a great mystery with more development of characters

Another entertaining story

The use of Tagalog and authentic conversations and Filipino food add greatly to the story. The main character is likable, flawed and dedicated to her family. It makes for a light murder mystery and entertaining read. I enjoy this author’s work and look forward to her next book

Love this book!!

Cozy reading at its finest. You never really know what is gonna happen until the end. I love reading but listening to this brought the story to life.

Love This Series

I have been listening to this series over the last couple of months. I really enjoy this story line and how it is read! Great series!