When both PI Lydia Shepard and police detective (and boyfriend) Adam Trudeau ask Lana Lee for assistance with their cases, how can Lana resist investigating? She can't, of course, and Adam and Lydia's cases turn out to be connected. This novel had interesting descriptions of Chinese mythology as Lana searches for the truth of a secret group known as the Eight Immortals. The mystery was not particularly complex, but it was fun to watch Lana put together the information. Her sidekicks Megan and Kimmy both appear, and while I wish there had been more Megan and less Kimmy, the return of recurring characters is one of the pleasures of the series. Thanks to Minotaur and NetGalley for the eARC.

While her real job is being the manager of her family’s Ho-Lee Noodle Shop in the town of Fairview Park,Ohio, Lana Lee has more than once found herself investigating a murder within Cleveland’s Asia Village shopping plaza. That is how she found herself owing a favor to private investigator Lydia Shepherd, who is now calling in that debt for a case of her own. Lydia has been hired to investigate three deaths, one of which was natural and the others which appear to be accidents. Lydia’s client isn’t so sure though, believing that they are murders connected to a secret organization known as the Eight Immortals. In 1901 eight immigrant businessmen joined forces to help other Chinese businesses succeed in a country that only saw them as outsiders, and they have passed on their responsibilities to their descendants. Keeping their identities a secret to protect themselves and avoid sabotage, they identify themselves through special objects that they pass down generations.

Lana’s boyfriend Detective Adam Trudeau would prefer that she not once again be involved in a murder case, especially since the latest death is of his own. He’s mostly resigned to her inability to stay uninvolved though, especially when she’s prodded along by her childhood bestie Kimmy Tran. Kimmy is A LOT, and Lana knows that there’s pretty much nothing she can do to stop Kimmy from inserting herself into the investigation. Lydia soon becomes aware of this as well, eventually acknowledging that Lana is completely unable to adhere to the confidentiality contract she signed and that soon everyone will be meddling in their business. That’s not entirely a bad thing though, as the Mahjong Matrons who regularly eat in the Ho-Lee Noodle shop know everything about everyone and are an invaluable resource for Asia Village gossip.

This 11th in the series continues to be unique as it shines a light on aspects of Asian American life that may not be well known. The Eight Immortals are not mythical entities, as they are instead Chinese-Americans with the goal of assisting other immigrants who face prejudice and persecution. The 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act prohibiting immigration was propelled by anti-Chinese sentiment, which is why the businessmen in the novel unite in secret to assist their fellow immigrants. Lana comes from a mixed family herself, with a strained relationship with her “perfect,” high-achieving sister. Fans of the series will enjoy revisiting the residents of Fairview Park, who include Lana’s roomie Megan along with (all too brief) visits with Lana’s entire family. That her grandmother’s boyfriend is one of the suspects and/or possible victims makes finding the truth all the more crucial, especially when evidence is stolen and another victim is found. Readers will also enjoy descriptions of some of Lana’s favorite foods, which are prepared by her family and by their restaurant’s chef. Families taking care of one another and passing on traditions to the next generations are themes that resonate throughout the novel, making it a compelling read that educates as much as it entertains.

A fabulous book in the series. Can't believe it's Book #11 already. The series just keeps on getting better. Love Lana and her sleuthing skills. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

Dollycas’s Thoughts

Who are the Eight Immortals? Three have been murdered when Private Investigator Lydia Shepard asks Lana to help her with the case in order to find who is killing members of the exclusive Asian order. Each member has an item that represents their “immortal counterpart,” and the working theory is that the killer wants all of the items. Lydia’s client is a member, and he thinks he is going to be the next victim.

Lana is surprised that the Mahjong Matrons are clueless about the Eight Immortals, but she does find others at the Asia Village who could be right in the middle of the case. In fact, members of her own family may be connected.

Will Lana be able to help Lydia catch the killer? Or will her investigation make her the next victim?

Ms. Chien uses a bit of Chinese history/mythology as the theme for this Noodle Shop Mystery. We have learned about many Chinese traditions reading this series, but with the Eight Immortals being the prominent plotline was very interesting.

The author has created a wonderful cast of characters, some of my cozy favorites. Lana continues to grow stronger and independent. She was offered a job with Lydia’s PI firm but turned it down to continue to manage the family’s noodle shop. I was happy to see that an offer to consult on the case allowed her to continue her sleuthing. She and Lydia make a great team, but they had a few hiccups this time. Of course, that adds to the drama and suspense. Lana continues to use her friend Megan as a sounding board, but her friend Kimmy goes a little off the rails when she feels she is being left out. Head chef Peter doesn’t like Lana involved in these cases, and if his girlfriend Kimmy gets involved, he is beyond upset. Lana was away from the restaurant a lot in this story, so he gave her a difficult time.

The mystery was very well-plotted and had a brisk pace. Lana had connections in the Asian community that Lydia needed, but had difficulty keeping confidential information confidential. This was a tough case, and I had a great time following Lana as she worked to find the truth. She led with her heart in questioning some individuals. As all the clues fell into place and secrets were revealed, Lana found herself in mortal danger when caught snooping for the proof needed. This led to a fantastic takedown.

Ms. Chien always finds the perfect balance of suspense, humor, and daily life. Because this story takes place in a short time span, we only get to experience one weekly family dim sum meal where all the details of the case was wrapped up. I always enjoy these family get-togethers.

The Chow Maniac felt a little more serious than previous installments, but I loved the Eight Immortals theme. Ms. Chien’s core characters are strong and continue to develop as the series continues. This is a “Must-Read” series for me, and I recommend you read them all in order for maximum enjoyment. I can’t wait for Book 12!

The Chow Maniac is the next installment of the Noodle Shop Mystery series, which follows Lana Lee as she continues to run her family's noodle house while also often acting as an amateur detective. In The Chow Maniac, Lana is officially brought onto a case by a former acquaintance - PI Lydia. Over the past few months, members of a secret society have been turning up dead. While their deaths had first been declared either natural or accidental, now, Lydia's client (who insists on the utmost secrecy) is claiming that they're all suspicious - likely murders. Lydia needs Lana to infiltrate this society and discover what is true, what is lore, and who can be trusted. Also, Lana absolutely canNOT talk to anyone about this society, the case, or what she discovers - a feat that proves to be quite challenging with her detective boyfriend, overbearing chef, and two super nosy best friends.

The Chow Maniac is another fun culinary cozy mystery. I absolutely love the characters in this series. Megan and Kimmy's dynamic is always fun and the Mahjong Matrons are so lovable. I can't read this series without craving noodles and Asian food. The mystery in this particular installment was not necessarily my favorite. I found it a bit slow-paced and predictable. However, with the amazing characters and charming setting, I still absolutely loved the book. I can't wait to follow Lana, Adam, Kimmy, Megan, the Mahjong Matrons, and the rest of Asia Village on their next adventure!

Lana Lee is back! The Chow Maniac, Vivien Chien's 11th ( Wow - it seems like just yesterday Death by Dumpling was released!!!) focuses on the connection forged long-ago by businessmen who created a modern day version of the Eight Immortals whose secret existence is carried on to the present day. When members of the group begin to die by mysterious (and murderous!) circumstances, Lana is hired (a real PI gig!) to investigate. Fun to read, and definitely 5 stars from me! A+++

This book had some surprises in store for the store owners of Asia Village. Following a Chinese legend of the 8 immortals a secret society of benefactors has been existing in Lana’s hometown and now someone is slowly killing them off. Private detective Lydia Shepard enlists Lana’s help with her inside knowledge of the players and culture. The only trouble is Lana is supposed to keep the information confidential but she keeps bringing in her friends to help her.

Looks like things are getting spooky in Asia Village with some murders tied to ancient legends! Lana’s back on the case, teaming up with a private eye to figure out who’s after these “immortal” artifacts. Expect some secret societies and maybe even a little family drama for Lana. This series never disappoints. Some how Vivien Chien always makes it new and fresh but with that comforting feeling of visiting old friends in a familiar place that gives cozy mysteries the charm we need. A perfect escape read. Thank you NetGalley and St. Martins Press for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.

#11 in the Noodle Shop series gives us some Chinese mythology, a great team in Lana and Lydia and an entertaining story. What is not to like? It was nice to revisit the Asian Village and its characters.

From the first pages, Chow Maniac is breaking fresh ground. The prologue dives into the rich, secretive past of an organization whose descendants now shoulder the burden of legacy and tradition. This historical thread weaves into the present day when members of a secret society start dying under mysterious circumstances.

Enter private detective Lydia Shepard, a figure from Lana Lee's past, with an intriguing—and dangerous—proposal. Lydia needs help unearthing the identities of the current Eight Immortals. Lana, ever curious and unable to resist a murder investigation, steps into a web of secrets entangling her family and friends. But this time, her habitual snooping places her in the crosshairs of an elusive organization even the Mahjong Matrons knew nothing about.

Lana’s growth is evident in this installment. Her ties to family and the Ho-Lee Noodle House remain steadfast, but her willingness to step beyond her comfort zone hints at the layers of complexity she’s beginning to embrace. While she’s still hilariously one step ahead of Detective Adam Trudeau, their dynamic feels repetitive.

And, of course, the Mahjong Matrons steal the show. Their charm and wisdom remind readers why they’ve always been a fan favorite. The vibrant community of Asia Village serves not just as the backdrop but as an integral part of Lana's life, ensuring that no matter where her adventures take her, she’ll always be a fixture of this tight-knit world.

This novel is an engaging mix of mystery, history, and character evolution. With its fresh feel and Lana’s deepening journey, it’s a book that leaves readers eager for her next escapade. Vivien Chien strikes a satisfying balance between cozy familiarity and thrilling novelty—perfect for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

Lana gets pulled into this mystery by her PI friend Lydia. Lydia needs an Asian connection and Lana is it. This situation gives Lana a chance to become more aware of some history that she had not known. Lana is continuing to develop as a character as she seems to be more in touch with what she wants out of life and a career; or at least what she doesn't want. I enjoy these mysteries because Lana is such a cool character. I am happy to see a new one out

This is such a fun series and this installment is great. The characters are great and the plotting is as well. As soon as I finish a book, I start anticipating the next installment.

The Chow Maniac by Vivien Chien is a Noodle Shop Mystery featuring Lana Lee, sometimes involved with private investigator, Lydia Shepard. A fact that makes many in her life unhappy, including her boyfriend, Adam, who is a police detective. Lydia has arrived this morning with a mystery involving Lana’s community, which is why she needs her help. Over one hundred years ago, eight Chinese immigrants formed a secret society to help one another as well as other immigrants in need. It had lasted until the current time, with an offspring of each man replacing him when he died. Well, now, some of the dead had no offspring. Plus, women wanted in. Lydia had been hired by a member of the group who believed the recent deaths had been murders and that he was next. Quite the conundrum.

Lana is a clever young woman who manages her parents’ restaurant. She enjoys the occasional foray into investigating. Her cook does not as his girlfriend tends to get involved. Not that Lana could keep her out. Other merchants on the street may be involved. Lana is curious. She is a great character, as are the other regulars. It is a little different than most cozies in that it is so ethnic. She helps people and as a result, they are there to help her in return, if they can. This is a good mystery, with a surprising outcome. It was well-investigated and Lana was lucky. It was an enjoyable read.

I was invited to read The Chow Maniac by St Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #VivienChien #TheChowManiac

PI Lydia returns to claim the favor she asked of Lana back in Egg Drop Dead (at least I’m pretty sure that is the book). Chow Maniac ties together people from over the course of the series while introducing new people and a new mythology with the Eight Immortals.
It’s a clever tale. You won’t know who to trust. This presents a good puzzle.
The reader gets the chance to know more about Mr. Zhang, which is a good thing since he is dating Lana’s grandmother.
This book has less Megan involvement since Lana is supposed to be working with Lydia. Lana really does have a hard time with secrets, though she is not supposed to say anything Megan, Kimmy and Adam know most everything about the case.
The book makes me curious about Cleveland and its Asian population and if there is a concentration of Asian culture in specific areas. I usually know I’m deep in a series if I start wondering about the location.
I enjoy the Ho Lee Noodle House series. Lana is a flawed main character you can’t help but root for.
Thanks to Netgalley and Minotaur books for the opportunity to read Chow Maniac.

When private detective returns to the Asia Village to enlist the help of Lana Lee to help solve a rash of unsolved murders and thefts. Three murders already took place in a group of elite Asian order of the Eight immortals each member of the order holds one item that represents their Immortal counterpart and someone is dying to get their hands on them all. As they dig deeper into the case the ladies find unexpected associations within the Asia Village and potential ties to her own family that can be devastating will Lana be able to keep her own emotions out of the investigation and will the murderer be found before they become the ultimate immortal. I enjoy reading Vivian’s story’s she has the most interesting characters and story lines.

Lana is brought in to help solve the murders of several members of a secret Asian society. Lydia trusts Lana to help her figure out who is targeting the members and figure out who the killer is.

While digging into the case, Lana finds more secrets that impact the people in her daily world. Can Lana keep the secrets she is uncovering? More importantly, will uncovering the secrets expose the killer and make Lana their next target?

I have loved this series from the first entry. I love the characters, especially Kikkoman. The author writes so well that I find myself reading from their perspective of being the protagonist. I absolutely adore each and every entry in the series and this one did not disappoint. If you have not read anything in the series feel free to start with this one. It reads fine as a stand alone.

I love this series so much. Chien has created a fun community, which she broadened to other parts of Cleveland in this book. I found the little bits of history fascinating and enjoyed the new perspective. The mystery this time was more sprawling and ambitious, which I enjoyed. The pacing was solidly done, consistently moving forward without being too fast. This series is an instant read every time and I’m always looking for the next one!

PI Lydia Sheppard asks Lana for help investigating the suspicious deaths of three prominent men in the Asian community. Could it be because of their connection to a secret organization called the Eight Immortals?

As always Lana makes a few missteps but gets the job done with the help of friends and family. Love the local Cleveland setting.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an electronic copy to read in exchange for an honest review.

I can't get enough of this series. Please never stop writing them. Lana furthers her skills as a investigator by actually working as one this time (sort of). Its quippy and cute with just enough mystery and bodies to keep me guessing.

The Chow Maniac: A Noodle Shop Mystery by Vivien Chien is a fast-paced, twisty addition to the Noodle Shop Mystery series that serves up danger, secrets, and a hint of mythology—all with a side of dumplings.

In this installment, amateur sleuth Lana Lee is pulled into her most intense case yet when private investigator Lydia Shephard reappears with a chilling mystery: members of a secretive order called the Eight Immortals are being murdered, and someone is collecting their symbolic items one by one. With law enforcement out of the loop (including Lana’s boyfriend, Detective Trudeau), it’s up to Lana and Lydia to stop the killer before the next “immortal” falls.

This book stands out for its elevated stakes and darker tone. Chien blends mystery with a dash of folklore in a way that’s fresh for the series, while still maintaining the quirky charm and community vibe of Asia Village. Lana’s partnership with Lydia is sharp and fun, with just enough tension to keep things interesting.

The mystery itself is layered and well-plotted, with some solid red herrings and a satisfying (if slightly over-the-top) conclusion. And as always, there’s a generous helping of family drama and cultural flavor that fans of the series have come to love.

What keeps it from a full five stars? Some of the emotional beats—especially Lana’s personal connections to the case—could have used a bit more development. But overall, this is a strong, entertaining entry that keeps the momentum going.

A must-read for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy high stakes, clever plots, and a heroine you can’t help but root for.