Thursday, September 26, 2024

Peking Duck and Cover

Title: Peking Duck and Cover
Author: Vivien Chien
Published: July 23, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, 282 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 #10

First Sentence: New year, new me. Isn’t that the phrase?

Blurb: Lana Lee and friends return for a fiery Chinese New Year celebration that rattles their quaint community. After all, an Asia Village party wouldn’t be complete without an explosive finale.

Chinese New Year is supposed to be a time of fresh beginnings and celebrations of good fortune to come. Naturally, the shop owners of Asia Village jump at the chance to support property manager Ian Sung when he suggests creating a memorable holiday event that will bring positive light to the plaza, and prosperity for all those involved.

With Lana Lee as his right-hand woman and head event planner, Ian orchestrates an extravagant evening filled with music, live entertainment, and generous giveaways. But at the end of the night, during an elaborate firework show in the parking lot, a member of the lion dance performance team is found dead backstage with a single bullet hole through the heart and a red envelope in their pocket containing four one-dollar bills―an omen of death.

Ian Sung takes it upon himself, again enlisting Lana’s help, to find out who could have killed the talented dancer right under their nose.

My Opinion: I literally had to take notes with this one. My lines turned into triangles that turned into Ven diagrams. Which woman was which. Which man was which. Who was related to whom? Who was dating whom? Who were siblings, and who were like siblings. Very chaotic without the murderer being obvious too soon – mostly because I couldn’t keep everyone straight.

Set during a Chinese New Year celebration, Lana Lee finds herself entangled in a murder investigation after a member of the lion dance team is found dead. Adding to that the discovery of an ominous red envelope and rumors of a curse all add layers of interest to the plot.

Vivien Chien weaves cultural elements into the narrative, creating a vivid and immersive setting. The characters are familiar, well-developed, and relatable. There is humor sprinkled throughout, providing a nice balance to the suspense, and making for an enjoyable read.

Fans of cozy mysteries will enjoy the plot twists and Chinese cultural elements. Overall, Peking Duck and Cover is a delightful addition to the series and perfect for those who enjoy a good mystery with a little bit more.

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