Jesse Q. Sutanto's Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) is a delightful continuation of the adventures of Vera Wong, a character who has quickly become a beloved figure in the cozy mystery genre. This sequel to Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers brings back the charming and meddlesome Vera, whose penchant for solving mysteries is as strong as ever. Sutanto's storytelling is both engaging and humorous, making this book a must-read for fans of light-hearted mysteries with a touch of heart.

At the heart of the story is Vera Wong, a character whose personality is as vibrant as the teas she serves in her teahouse. Vera is a force to be reckoned with—sharp, witty, and unafraid to meddle in the lives of those around her. Her character is a refreshing departure from the typical detective archetype, bringing a unique blend of humor and wisdom to the narrative. Sutanto does an excellent job of developing Vera's character further in this installment, showcasing her growth and the deepening of her relationships with those around her.

The plot kicks off with Vera's discovery of a distressed young woman searching for a missing friend. This sets the stage for a new mystery that Vera is determined to solve. The missing friend, Xander Lin, is an enigmatic social media influencer whose life was as mysterious as his death. Sutanto cleverly weaves together the world of social media with the traditional mystery genre, creating a narrative that feels both contemporary and timeless. The juxtaposition of Vera's old-school sleuthing methods with the modern world of influencers adds an interesting layer to the story.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its exploration of themes such as identity and the facades people create online. Xander Lin's character serves as a catalyst for this exploration, as his online persona is vastly different from the reality of his life. Sutanto uses this to delve into the idea of how social media can distort perceptions and create illusions. This theme is particularly relevant in today's digital age, where the line between reality and online personas is often blurred.

The supporting characters in the book are equally well-developed, each bringing their own quirks and complexities to the story. Officer Selena Gray, who was once the target of Vera's meddling, is now part of Vera's extended family. Her relationship with Vera's son, Tilly, adds a layer of warmth and humor to the narrative. Sutanto skillfully balances the dynamics between these characters, creating a sense of community and camaraderie that is both heartwarming and entertaining.

Vera's interactions with the young woman searching for Xander are particularly poignant, highlighting Vera's compassionate side. Despite her meddlesome nature, Vera genuinely cares about the people she encounters, and this is evident in her determination to solve the mystery for the young woman's sake. Sutanto's ability to infuse humor with heartfelt moments is one of the book's greatest strengths, making it a truly enjoyable read.

In terms of pacing, the book maintains a steady rhythm, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. Sutanto's writing style is crisp and witty, with dialogue that feels natural and authentic. The humor is well-timed, providing levity without detracting from the seriousness of the mystery at hand. The narrative is peppered with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

Comparatively, Sutanto's work can be likened to that of other authors in the cozy mystery genre, such as Richard Osman with his Thursday Murder Club series. Both authors excel at creating endearing characters who are as adept at solving mysteries as they are at forming meaningful relationships. However, Sutanto's unique blend of cultural elements and modern themes sets her work apart, offering readers a fresh perspective on the genre.

Overall, Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man) is a delightful addition to the series, offering a perfect blend of mystery, humor, and heart. Jesse Q. Sutanto has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the last page is turned. Whether you're a fan of cozy mysteries or new to the genre, this book is sure to captivate and charm you. Vera Wong's adventures are a testament to the power of curiosity, compassion, and a good cup of tea.