A book club read that’s perfect for fans of Richard Osman and Bonnie Garmus.
The Tea Ladies is a brilliant cosy crime that fans of The Thursday Murder Club series will adore. Set in 1960s Sydney, the book follows a group of office tea ladies who become accidental sleuths after a chance encounter with a stranger leads them on the path to search for a young woman believed to be in danger.
Discussion points and questions
- The Tea Ladies showcases a tight community of strong women pushing against the sensibilities and limitations of the times. In what ways did the actions of Hazel, Betty and Irene surprise you?
- Did you have a favourite tea lady and why?
- Is it easy for you to imagine a time in which ladies served tea to employees in large organisations such as Empire Fashionwear?
- In what ways was life in the 1960s easier, and in what ways was it harder? Do you think life was better back then?
- This book celebrates the swinging sixties in all its technicolour glory. Other than the glorious fashion, what aspects of the era did you think the author captured well?
- Did your impression of Hazel change over the course of the story?
- Do you think Hazel made the right decision about Bob?
- Who do you imagine playing the roles of the tea ladies in a television series?
- What other authors writing in this cosy crime genre do you like to read?
- Have you read any other books by Amanda Hampson, and if so, what aspects of her storytelling do you most enjoy?
Need a book club snack? Read this article by the author about the reign of the cream sponge, then make it yourself.
Take a journey through Europe with three friends as they retrace the steps of their 1978 backpacking trip.
Uncover scandalous domestic drama with your book club in the picturesque setting of South-West France.
On 9 August 2023, Penguin Random House AU hosted our first-ever in-house author event for Penguin Noir: A Crime Author Showcase.
See what reviewers are saying about books published in April and May 2023.
Author Amanda Hampson reflects on her fond memories of this delightful cake.
Amanda Hampson revisits the era in her upcoming novel, 'The Tea Ladies'.
Who were tea ladies and how did they come to be a part of our workday routines?
Revisit three Amanda Hampson books to experience European summer from the comfort of your living room.
An exciting Penguin Random House author showcase on 9 August!
In honour of International Women’s Day, we asked female authors to talk about the women writers who have inspired them.
Amanda Hampson reflects on travelling in the past and present, plus the research she undertook to bring Maggie, Fran and Rose to life in Sixty Summers.