The Small Canteen Of Dali Temple

My Thoughts on The Small Canteen Of Dali Temple

This novel is quite the unexpected blend! "Food And Crime Novel" is probably the most succinct way to describe it. I've been diving into "The Small Canteen Of Dali Temple," and it's been a fascinating ride so far, full of culinary delights and intriguing mysteries.

First Impressions

The premise immediately grabbed me. A modern woman transmigrating into the body of a former palace maid turned cook in ancient China, working in the Dali Temple (a judicial agency)? Yes, please! The initial chapters are strong, setting up a world brimming with flavor, both literal and figurative. The mix of cooking and crime-solving is unique and kept me hooked from the start. It's a world where satisfying government workers' appetites can lead to uncovering deadly secrets.

What Works Well

The author does a fantastic job of balancing the slice-of-life aspects of running a canteen with the suspense of the mystery plots. The protagonist isn't actively seeking out trouble, which is a refreshing change. She's focused on her cooking career, but she inevitably gets drawn into cases due to her skills and her family's past. I particularly enjoy the way the Dali Temple officials rely on her competence. The regular updates are a huge plus, and the translation quality is commendable. The blending of cooking, mystery, and ancient intrigue is something I haven't quite experienced before, and it definitely stimulates the appetite for both food and the next chapter.

Areas of Concern

While the beginning is strong, I do have some reservations based on some readers' experiences. Apparently, the story can stagnate around the mid-point, with the main plot and romance taking a backseat. I've also heard there can be some name mix-ups in some versions, which could make those chapters confusing. Also, that the novel meanders and becomes philosophical around the later chapters, but I have not yet reached that point.

Final Verdict

Despite some potential pitfalls later on, "The Small Canteen Of Dali Temple" is a promising and enjoyable read. The unique blend of cooking, mystery, and historical setting makes it stand out. If you're looking for something different and don't mind a potentially meandering plot later, I recommend giving this novel a try. Just be prepared for some serious cravings!