Author: Vivien Chien
Published: April 1, 2025 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, Paperback 336 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Noodle Shop Mystery #11
Blurb: When Lydia brings Lana onto the case, three of the members of an elite Asian order known as the Eight Immortals have already been murdered. Each member of the order holds one item that represents their immortal counterpart, and someone is dying to get their hands on them all. Lydia's client insists he—and only he—knows who will be next and wants the murderer captured before there is another victim.
Riding below the line of three cities of law enforcement and Lana’s own boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, the two women must tread lightly as they infiltrate a secret organization that even the Mahjong Matrons know nothing about. And somehow protect the next victim without letting on that she’s in danger.
As they dig deeper into the case, Lana finds there are unexpected associations within Asia Village and potential ties to her own family that could be devastating. With the stakes raised on the toughest case she’s ever worked, will Lana be able to keep her own emotions out of the investigation? And will the murderer be found before they become the ultimate “immortal”?
My Opinion: From the first pages, Chow Maniac is breaking fresh ground. The prologue dives into the rich, secretive past of an organization whose descendants now shoulder the burden of legacy and tradition. This historical thread weaves into the present day when members of a secret society start dying under mysterious circumstances.
Enter private detective Lydia Shepard, a figure from Lana Lee's past, with an intriguing—and dangerous—proposal. Lydia needs help unearthing the identities of the current Eight Immortals. Lana, ever curious and unable to resist a murder investigation, steps into a web of secrets entangling her family and friends. But this time, her habitual snooping places her in the crosshairs of an elusive organization even the Mahjong Matrons knew nothing about.
Lana’s growth is evident in this installment. Her ties to family and the Ho-Lee Noodle House remain steadfast, but her willingness to step beyond her comfort zone hints at the layers of complexity she’s beginning to embrace. While she’s still hilariously one step ahead of Detective Adam Trudeau, their dynamic feels repetitive.
And, of course, the Mahjong Matrons steal the show. Their charm and wisdom remind readers why they’ve always been a fan favorite. The vibrant community of Asia Village serves not just as the backdrop but as an integral part of Lana's life, ensuring that no matter where her adventures take her, she’ll always be a fixture of this tight-knit world.
This novel is an engaging mix of mystery, history, and character evolution. With its fresh feel and Lana’s deepening journey, it’s a book that leaves readers eager for her next escapade. Vivien Chien strikes a satisfying balance between cozy familiarity and thrilling novelty—perfect for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Riding below the line of three cities of law enforcement and Lana’s own boyfriend, Detective Adam Trudeau, the two women must tread lightly as they infiltrate a secret organization that even the Mahjong Matrons know nothing about. And somehow protect the next victim without letting on that she’s in danger.
As they dig deeper into the case, Lana finds there are unexpected associations within Asia Village and potential ties to her own family that could be devastating. With the stakes raised on the toughest case she’s ever worked, will Lana be able to keep her own emotions out of the investigation? And will the murderer be found before they become the ultimate “immortal”?
My Opinion: From the first pages, Chow Maniac is breaking fresh ground. The prologue dives into the rich, secretive past of an organization whose descendants now shoulder the burden of legacy and tradition. This historical thread weaves into the present day when members of a secret society start dying under mysterious circumstances.
Enter private detective Lydia Shepard, a figure from Lana Lee's past, with an intriguing—and dangerous—proposal. Lydia needs help unearthing the identities of the current Eight Immortals. Lana, ever curious and unable to resist a murder investigation, steps into a web of secrets entangling her family and friends. But this time, her habitual snooping places her in the crosshairs of an elusive organization even the Mahjong Matrons knew nothing about.
Lana’s growth is evident in this installment. Her ties to family and the Ho-Lee Noodle House remain steadfast, but her willingness to step beyond her comfort zone hints at the layers of complexity she’s beginning to embrace. While she’s still hilariously one step ahead of Detective Adam Trudeau, their dynamic feels repetitive.
And, of course, the Mahjong Matrons steal the show. Their charm and wisdom remind readers why they’ve always been a fan favorite. The vibrant community of Asia Village serves not just as the backdrop but as an integral part of Lana's life, ensuring that no matter where her adventures take her, she’ll always be a fixture of this tight-knit world.
This novel is an engaging mix of mystery, history, and character evolution. With its fresh feel and Lana’s deepening journey, it’s a book that leaves readers eager for her next escapade. Vivien Chien strikes a satisfying balance between cozy familiarity and thrilling novelty—perfect for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
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