The “small town with dark secrets” setting, for example, has been used in many other mystery novels. One of the minor weaknesses of the book is its reliance on some common mystery tropes. The characters are relatable and likable, and the story is both suspenseful and heartwarming. The book’s main strength is its ability to engage readers and keep them hooked until the very end. Lila’s recipes and descriptions of various dishes add an extra layer of depth to the story and make it stand out from other mysteries in the genre. She has a way of building suspense and keeping readers engaged without giving too much away too soon.Īdditionally, Manansala’s use of food as a central motif is a unique and refreshing take on the mystery genre. Manansala’s writing style is impressive and effective, especially given that this is her debut novel.

Lila struggles to reconcile her American identity with her Filipino heritage, and this struggle is reflected in her relationships with those around her. The book also explores the theme of identity, particularly for those who are part of the Filipino diaspora.

Lila’s family restaurant, for example, is an important part of her family’s legacy, and they will do anything to protect it. One of the main themes is the importance of family heritage and tradition. Main Themes and IdeasĪrsenic and Adobo deals with a number of themes and ideas that are relevant to readers today. She expertly weaves together elements of mystery, food, and family drama to create a story that is both alluring and suspenseful. Manansala’s writing style is fast-paced and engaging, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Lila must use her sleuthing skills to clear her family’s name and catch the killer before it’s too late. However, things take a dark turn when one of the restaurant’s customers is poisoned and dies. The protagonist, Lila Macapagal, is a food blogger who moves back to her hometown in order to help her grandmother save their family restaurant. Manansala’s debut mystery novel, Arsenic and Adobo, has quickly become a fan favorite for those looking for a thrilling, engaging read.

Manansala | Best New Mystery and Thriller

Arsenic and adobo by mia p manansala