The Plot
Miriam Quiñones-Smith is a Cuban-American food anthropologist navigating a major life transition. After moving back to Miami with her husband and young son, she’s adjusting to life under the critical eye of her wealthy mother-in-law—and she’s not thrilled about it.
But things get even more complicated when Miriam takes a job doing cooking segments for a Spanish-language morning show. Her television debut is cut short when a local socialite suddenly dies at a luncheon. Suspicious circumstances soon follow, and when a friend is arrested, Miriam takes it upon herself to find the real culprit. Along the way, she uncovers secrets simmering beneath the surface of Miami’s elite and rediscovers her own voice and identity.
Why I Love This Book
1. Cultural Richness
Raquel V. Reyes paints a lively, sensory picture of Miami’s Cuban-American community. The dialogue flows naturally between English and Spanish (with translations where needed), giving the story an authentic feel. From neighborhood dynamics to family interactions, the cultural representation feels genuine and refreshing.
2. A Clever and Relatable Heroine
Miriam is smart, sharp, and funny. Her background in food anthropology isn’t just for flavor—it actually plays into how she interprets clues and understands people. Her challenges as a working mom, daughter-in-law, and woman of color in elite spaces add emotional depth to the mystery.
3. Food You Can Practically Smell
This book is a treat for culinary mystery lovers. From mangoes and maduros to café con leche and arroz con pollo, every dish mentioned serves to deepen the atmosphere or advance the plot. It’s not just a gimmick—food is part of the story’s cultural heartbeat.
4. Cozy Mystery Vibes with a Fresh Twist
Mango, Mambo, and Murder fits the cozy mold—amateur sleuth, small community, light on gore—but it also brings something new. Its Caribbean-American focus, social commentary, and layered protagonist make it a standout in the genre.
Conclusion
Mango, Mambo, and Murder is everything a good cozy mystery should be—light, engaging, and satisfying—but with a flavorful twist. It centers a culture not often seen in the genre and introduces a heroine who’s both intelligent and emotionally grounded.
It’s a strong start to a promising series, and I’m already hungry for the next book.