Lanterns Masks & Murder (Darcy and Mozart)

A legendary Chinese opera star murdered on stage, a haunting message, and a killer lurking in the shadows of Beijing’s Hungry Ghost Festival.

International food critic Darcy Finnegan, her bestie Lizzie, and clue-sniffing Schnoodle Mozart arrive in Beijing to cover the city’s eerie and delicious festival for The Wandering Foodie magazine.

But their assignment takes a chilling turn when renowned Peking opera star Jiang Wei is found theatrically posed, a ceremonial jian sword through his heart.

With rumors of vengeful spirits frightening the cast, Darcy hunts a flesh-and-blood killer—until a shadowy figure draped in mist forces her to question what’s truly supernatural.

As she untangles a web of ambition, betrayal, and ancient superstitions, a terrifying message from beyond the grave emerges, leaving behind only a shattered blood-red opera mask.

With festival lanterns floating and ghostly figures lurking, the trio must unmask the killer before the next victim takes their final bow.

Special Chinese Mooncake Recipe Included!