A review by tessa_talks_books
Guilt and Ginataan by Mia P. Manansala

4.0

 
Five Reasons to Read Guilt and Ginataan:
  1. A Taste of Filipino Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Filipino cuisine and culture as Lila Macapagal navigates family traditions, mouthwatering dishes, and the bustling atmosphere of her cafe. The author skillfully uses food to introduce readers to Filipino culture, making it an integral part of the story's atmosphere and Lila's heritage.
  2. An Engaging Murder Mystery: When Lila's best friend is accused of murder, she's thrust into a thrilling investigation that will keep you on the edge of your seat, guessing until the end.
  3. Friendship Dynamics: Explore the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and love triangles as Lila grapples with her feelings for her best friend and her best friend's girlfriend.
  4. A Cozy Mystery Vibe: Guilt and Ginataan delivers a satisfying blend of intrigue and cultural immersion if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a touch of exotic flavor.
  5. A Relatable Protagonist: Lila is a friend you can relate to, not just a character. Her resourcefulness and resilience in adversity make her a compelling character to follow.

What I Liked:
The central murder mystery involving Lila's best friend is not just a hook but a well-crafted narrative thread that builds suspense throughout the novel. Each clue and revelation keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover the truth. Exploring the delicate dynamics between Lila, her best friend, and her best friend's girlfriend is a key aspect of the story. It adds complexity and depth, as it's not just about the murder mystery but also about personal relationships and how they evolve in the face of adversity.

Why Not Five Stars:
While I enjoyed Guilt and Ginataan, the pacing was sometimes uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed while others were more leisurely. Additionally, some secondary characters could have been more developed. However, these minor issues didn't significantly detract from my enjoyment of the book.