A Review of Mango, Mambo, and Murder; A Caribbean Kitchen Mystery by RAQUEL V.REYES
FIVE STAR BOOK REVIEW
Mango, Mambo, and Murder; A Caribbean Kitchen Mystery is a most enjoyable read. The main character, Miriam Quiñones-Smith has a fascinating background as a Food Anthropologist. Her knowledge sprinkled through the narrative of the story adds an interesting cultural angle. I love books that teach me a thing or two while they entertain me.
The multicultural multilingual Miami experience is present and believable. I felt like I had driven down to Hialeah; the Spanish phrases, comments added throughout the story are such that non-Spanish speakers will understand through context, and readers may learn a word or two.
Miriam’s growth and transformation as a reader had me cheering for her success and how she learned to stand up to her most unpleasant mother-in-law. There is a nice balance of comically exaggerated and lovely, pleasant examples of characters in every culture represented in the story.
I found myself laughing, cheering, and in a spicy fun cooking mood. I look forward to the next mystery and to reconnecting with Miriam, Alma, and all the other colorful characters in this delightful read.
I bought the book at Murder on the Beach, Mystery Bookstore in Delray Beach, Florida.
❧Defining Ways❧ 