An ‘in conversation’ event featuring award-winning cosy crime author Amanda Hampson will be held this month as part of City of Moreton Bay’s Write Around Moreton Bay program.
Amanda will appear at North Lakes Library on 23 June to discuss her latest novel, The Model Murder, the newest instalment in her bestselling Tea Ladies mystery series, set in 1960s Sydney.
The Melbourne-based author said the session would explore the attractions of nostalgia, sixties fashion, and the perils of crime writing.
“We’ll have a good chat about the incredible capabilities of older women and why I chose to make that particular group the stars of the Tea Ladies series,” Amanda said.
Inside The Model Murder and Tea Ladies Series
The Model Murder sees the return of characters Hazel, Betty, Irene and Merl, as they navigate the underworld of fashion houses, theatre groups and backstreet gambling operations. Their investigation into a laneway murder exposes a web of missing money, organised crime and secrets.
Amanda, who has written 10 novels across varied genres, said writing crime turned out to be more difficult than she imagined.
“All my novels have a twist of some kind, but this genre needs more twists, more pace and mastering the smoke and mirror techniques of concealment and revelation,” she said. “So, for me, it’s really spiced things up, and I love being able to let my sense of humour off the leash.”
The Tea Ladies series has received strong recognition, winning the 2024 Dagger Award for Best Fiction and being shortlisted for the 2024 Davitt Awards (Best Adult Crime) and the 2024 Ned Kelly Awards (Best Fiction).
“It’s so great to have the endorsement of an award,” Amanda said. “Plus, the amazing popularity of The Tea Ladies and reader affection for the characters has been very heartening and given me added confidence. But all writing takes a lot of discipline and tenacity – so that part never changes.”
She said of the four Tea Ladies, Amanda “regularly chuckled” to herself when writing Irene.
“She’s an unpredictable reprobate and an unrepentant philistine with a sassy attitude – so fun to write!” she said.
Attendees at the North Lakes Library event will be able to purchase Amanda’s books and have them signed.
“It’s great to hear what readers enjoy about the stories, but more than anything, I love hearing the audience’s memories and stories – some of which have made their way into the series,” she said.
Bookings required. Book your spots here.
Meet the Author: Amanda Hampson
- Tuesday, 23 June, 6.30pm-7.30pm
- North Lakes Library
- 10 The Corso, North Lakes
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