Wonton Terror Review: Book 4 in Noodle Shop Mysteries by Vivien Chien

Summary: Wonton Terror

Wonton Terror is the fourth book in the Noodle Shop series by Vivien Chien. I skipped the preceding installment — Murder Lo Mein — and just read this after Dim Sum of All Fears. I’m pleased to report that you can easily skip one in the series without missing any crucial plot points.

In Wonton Terror, Lana and Adam are preparing to go on their first vacation as a couple. Her aunt Grace — her mother’s very “Americanized” sister — is also visiting. On top of all of that, a food truck explosion kills a long-time friend of the Lee family.

Lana is forced to get involved when the victim’s wife is accused of the crime.

The Good

This was even better than Dim Sum of All Fears! I read it much quicker and was thoroughly engrossed in the story. Pretty much everyone seemed suspicious to me, which is always a good thing for a cozy mystery.

Adam and Lana are finally in a great place with their relationship and they’re just sweet enough without being sappy. I was also happy to see that Megan and Lana’s friendship is still going strong.

Aunt Grace’s visit added a new layer of family drama to this story. She’s chosen a more “free-spirited” way of living — basically a nomad and freelance writer. Grace is also very much the fun aunt, happy to splurge on and egg on her nieces. Unfortunately, Lana’s mother doesn’t quite approve.

Finally, the cast is really in a good place with this fourth book and all chip in to help Lana solve this mystery.

The Bad

Not a bad thing, but it’s worth noting that there’s mention (it’s a huge part of the plot) of domestic violence. If that’s a trigger for you, you might want to skip this one.

Overall: Wonton Terror

I’m still a major fan of the Noodle Shop series and I’m eagerly anticipating and dreading the next one — it’ll be the last, I think!

Wonton Terror retains and improves upon all the reasons why Vivien Chien’s Noodle Shop series works as a cozy mystery series. This installment is complete with shady characters, family drama, and lots of appetizing food!

Disclaimer: I received an electronic ARC of Wonton Terror from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.