What inspired you to write What Rhymes with Murder? And why choose cosy crime as your first adult novel?
When I had a little baby I found myself walking around with the pram, a little bit bored and lonely. I started to notice things that I would have rushed past previously. I thought this was a good set-up for an amateur detective story. I enjoy cosy crime and I thought this concept would fit very well in that genre.
Frida’s journey begins in a library’s Baby Rhyme Time session. How did you arrive at this unique starting point for a murder mystery?
I’ve been to a lot of Rhyme Time sessions. The body in the library is a classic crime trope and I thought this was a good twist on that.
What themes — such as motherhood, community or humour — were most important for you to explore in this book?
Motherhood, or more specifically matrescence (becoming a mother) is a key theme. But I also wanted to write about the different ways people care for others in their community outside of parenting.
The book blends mystery with everyday life (parenting, cafés, gossip). How do you balance lighthearted moments with the darker crime elements?
Generally, it’s just about offering the protagonist a nice drink or snack at regular intervals. Also providing opportunities for naps, because that’s what new parents really want.
Do you plot your mysteries in detail before you begin, or discover the twists as you go?
I’ve tried but always failed. It seems like I can’t imagine the story until I write it. I’ve accepted that now and just have loose ideas that I work towards. When I started writing What Rhymes with Murder? I had no idea who the murderer was. For the manuscript I’m currently writing, I thought I knew who the murderer was, but I was wrong. This is probably a very inefficient approach but seems to be the only way for me.
Melbourne’s parks and libraries feel vivid in the story. How important was setting to the tone of this book?
I’m very happy if it came across that way! East Melbourne is a lovely suburb and a place with very interesting and well-documented history. The idea of sinister events happening in a seemingly idyllic location is something I wanted to capture in the book.
As a former stand-up comedian and librarian, do you find humour or research shapes your writing most?
I find it quite difficult to write stories without attempting funny bits. It would be very difficult to stop. I research topics related to my writing partially for accuracy but also to get inspiration for characters and events. There are a lot of historical parallels in What Rhymes with Murder? and details I picked up from research. But I also made some stuff up because I have a license to be artistic.
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The Q&A with Penny Tangey, author of *What Rhymes with Murder?*, offers fascinating insight into her creative process, character development, and the inspiration behind her mystery storytelling. Interviews like this give readers a deeper appreciation of the writing journey and the craft behind compelling fiction. Just as readers look for detailed insights into books, food lovers seek clear, up-to-date menu information. For the latest Mixue menu prices and NYC location details, you can explore Mixue Menu here: [https://mixuemenu.us/new-york-city/](https://mixuemenu.us/new-york-city/)
Really enjoyed reading this interview. The way Penny Tangey talks about noticing small everyday moments while walking with a pram turning into the seed for a mystery is fascinating. It’s interesting how simple routines can inspire creative ideas, much like tools such as Online Secret Santa https://giftexchangegenerator.vercel.app
help people organize fun surprises during holidays or gatherings. The mix of humour, community, and a cosy mystery vibe sounds like it would make the story very engaging. Definitely adding this book to my reading list!
I found the Q&A with Penny Tangey absolutely fascinating! It’s intriguing to learn how motherhood and a little bit of boredom can spark the inspiration for a cozy crime novel. Penny’s experience resonates with many, showing that creativity can be kindled in the most unexpected moments. Thank you for sharing this insight into the author’s journey, it adds a personal touch to the reading experience.https://screenawake.com/
I loved the way she talked about her inspiration: pushing a stroller, feeling bored and lonely, and then suddenly realizing that the little details around her could become the perfect setting for a cosy crime. It’s true, only moms understand – those Rhyme Time sessions at the library aren’t just about singing lullabies free top games, they’re also places where drama can erupt at any moment!
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Wonderful interview with Penny Tangey! Her insights into writing YA mystery with humor really resonate — the balance between tension and levity is so tricky to nail, and “What Rhymes with Murder” seems to walk that line beautifully. The point about drawing from real small-town Australian dynamics rather than generic “cozy mystery” tropes gives the book such authentic texture. I’m adding this to my TBR immediately.
On a slightly different note, my kids have been obsessed with this browser-based football game called Head Football during their school holiday downtime. It’s cartoonish, no violence, runs on any device without downloads, and the matches are short enough that I don’t have to pry them away when it’s time for reading hour or dinner. I’ve actually started using it as a reward for finishing their daily reading challenge — the competitive element keeps them engaged without the usual screen time battles. The oversized heads and ridiculous power-ups are genuinely hilarious too.
Any word on whether Penny has plans for a sequel or companion novel? The small-town setting feels ripe for more stories.
Thanks for this insightful Q&A — sharing with my book club!
What a fascinating author interview! I always enjoy reading Q&As because they provide a deeper look into an author’s creative process, inspirations, and the journey behind a book. Hearing how ideas develop into compelling stories makes reading even more enjoyable. Interviews like this help readers connect with authors on a more personal level and often inspire them to explore new books and genres. While browsing lifestyle and food resources recently, I came across information about cookout milkshakes and enjoyed exploring the variety of flavors available. Thanks for sharing this engaging conversation with the author!