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Olive Groves #2
Click
A taut crime thriller about a city on edge, a killer playing games, and the two women determined to bring him down.
Melbourne is gripped by fear after a backpacker's body is found with a cryptic note, and two more women vanish without trace. When photographs begin to arrive in the inboxes of the media and police, it's clear the killer isn't hiding - they are performing.
Journalist Oli Groves, founder of a fledgling digital news site, knows the story could make or break her. Rookie detective Penelope Kibbs, still trying to prove herself, is desperate to stop the violence before more women are lost. But they soon realise the danger runs deeper than one killer - and closer than they want to believe.
With Click, Sarah Bailey proves herself a master of modern crime fiction, blending relentless suspense with sharp insight into obsession, corruption and survival.
'Sarah Bailey's Click is a masterful crime thriller. A complex police procedural that takes a deep dive into the darker side of our digital lives. A gripping, propulsive story told with an eye for the real pressures of modern policing and the challenges of a relentless news cycle.' – Michael Brissenden, bestselling author of Smoke and Dust
Melbourne is gripped by fear after a backpacker's body is found with a cryptic note, and two more women vanish without trace. When photographs begin to arrive in the inboxes of the media and police, it's clear the killer isn't hiding - they are performing.
Journalist Oli Groves, founder of a fledgling digital news site, knows the story could make or break her. Rookie detective Penelope Kibbs, still trying to prove herself, is desperate to stop the violence before more women are lost. But they soon realise the danger runs deeper than one killer - and closer than they want to believe.
With Click, Sarah Bailey proves herself a master of modern crime fiction, blending relentless suspense with sharp insight into obsession, corruption and survival.
'Sarah Bailey's Click is a masterful crime thriller. A complex police procedural that takes a deep dive into the darker side of our digital lives. A gripping, propulsive story told with an eye for the real pressures of modern policing and the challenges of a relentless news cycle.' – Michael Brissenden, bestselling author of Smoke and Dust
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Sarah Bailey
8 books859 followersSarah Bailey is a Melbourne-based writer with a background in advertising and communications. She has three sons and is currently the Managing Director of the Melbourne and Sydney offices of advertising agency VML and the founder of social media brand and podcast, He Read, She Read. Her internationally award-winning Gemma Woodstock series includes The Dark Lake, published in 2017 and winner of the Ned Kelly Award for Best First Fiction and the Davitt Award for Best Debut, followed by Into the Night in 2018, Where the Dead Go in 2019, and Body of Lies in 2024. Sarah has also published the bestselling The Housemate and Audible original Final Act in 2021. Click is the second book featuring journalist Oli Groves.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 16, 2026
“Secrets don’t stay buried. They wait.”
Click by Sarah Bailey feels sharp from the very first page, like you’ve stepped into something already in motion, already slightly out of control.
This is crime fiction that doesn’t just unfold, it presses. The tension sits low and constant, humming beneath every interaction, every discovery. A woman dead. Two missing. And a city that feels like it’s holding its breath. It’s not just the mystery that pulls you in, it’s the atmosphere, thick and restless, that makes it impossible to look away.
Bailey has this way of writing people that feels almost invasive. Flawed, complicated, quietly unraveling, you don’t just observe them, you sit with them in their discomfort. And as the investigation deepens, so does that sense that nothing is clean, nothing is simple, and no one is entirely safe from suspicion.
What I loved most is how controlled it all feels. Even in its chaos, there’s precision. Every reveal lands exactly where it should, every shift in perspective tightening the grip just a little more. It never rushes, never overreaches, it just builds, patiently and relentlessly.
By the end, I felt that familiar mix of satisfaction and unease, the kind that lingers after a really good crime novel. The answers are there, but they don’t come without weight.
Dark, tense, and quietly addictive.
I Highly Recommend.
Thank you Allen & Unwin for my early readers copy.
Available Now!
Click by Sarah Bailey feels sharp from the very first page, like you’ve stepped into something already in motion, already slightly out of control.
This is crime fiction that doesn’t just unfold, it presses. The tension sits low and constant, humming beneath every interaction, every discovery. A woman dead. Two missing. And a city that feels like it’s holding its breath. It’s not just the mystery that pulls you in, it’s the atmosphere, thick and restless, that makes it impossible to look away.
Bailey has this way of writing people that feels almost invasive. Flawed, complicated, quietly unraveling, you don’t just observe them, you sit with them in their discomfort. And as the investigation deepens, so does that sense that nothing is clean, nothing is simple, and no one is entirely safe from suspicion.
What I loved most is how controlled it all feels. Even in its chaos, there’s precision. Every reveal lands exactly where it should, every shift in perspective tightening the grip just a little more. It never rushes, never overreaches, it just builds, patiently and relentlessly.
By the end, I felt that familiar mix of satisfaction and unease, the kind that lingers after a really good crime novel. The answers are there, but they don’t come without weight.
Dark, tense, and quietly addictive.
I Highly Recommend.
Thank you Allen & Unwin for my early readers copy.
Available Now!
May 9, 2026
A tense and propulsive crime thriller, with police procedural elements.
I loved the return of investigative journalist Olive Groves, since she first appeared in The Housemate (another highly recommended story by Sarah Bailey). This time she is investigating an unpredictable killer and two missing women. Another memorable character is rookie detective Penelope Kibbs, who is forced to prove herself before more women are harmed.
There are some dark themes and frighteningly realistic circumstances covered in this story, although it is handled with nuance and consideration.
I was hooked into this story from beginning to end and stayed up way too late reading this sharp and suspenseful story. I am looking forward to reading more from Australian author Sarah Bailey.
I loved the return of investigative journalist Olive Groves, since she first appeared in The Housemate (another highly recommended story by Sarah Bailey). This time she is investigating an unpredictable killer and two missing women. Another memorable character is rookie detective Penelope Kibbs, who is forced to prove herself before more women are harmed.
There are some dark themes and frighteningly realistic circumstances covered in this story, although it is handled with nuance and consideration.
I was hooked into this story from beginning to end and stayed up way too late reading this sharp and suspenseful story. I am looking forward to reading more from Australian author Sarah Bailey.
April 28, 2026
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
Oh my goodness from the first page I was drawn into this unsettling crime thriller. Set in Melbourne Click by Sarah Bailey is a fast paced police procedural that was scary and left me feeling on edge. A serial killer is on the loose and we follow investigative journalist Olive Groves, her business partner TJ and Detective Constable Penelope Gibbs, a rookie as they dive into the case.
What unfolds is a dark and intriguing investigation into a series of murders on women with multiple suspects.
The main characters are very likeable and what was happening in their private lives made the story feel more relatable and real.
With cybercrime as a main element in this plot twisting novel, I felt it was so relevant in todays changing world of crime and the new challenges our police force are facing. You must get your hands on this brilliant read, out now!
Publication Date 31 March 2026
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much to the fabulous team Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
Oh my goodness from the first page I was drawn into this unsettling crime thriller. Set in Melbourne Click by Sarah Bailey is a fast paced police procedural that was scary and left me feeling on edge. A serial killer is on the loose and we follow investigative journalist Olive Groves, her business partner TJ and Detective Constable Penelope Gibbs, a rookie as they dive into the case.
What unfolds is a dark and intriguing investigation into a series of murders on women with multiple suspects.
The main characters are very likeable and what was happening in their private lives made the story feel more relatable and real.
With cybercrime as a main element in this plot twisting novel, I felt it was so relevant in todays changing world of crime and the new challenges our police force are facing. You must get your hands on this brilliant read, out now!
Publication Date 31 March 2026
Publisher Allen & Unwin
Thank you so much to the fabulous team Allen & Unwin for a copy of the book.
April 19, 2026
3.5
A tense, clever crime story that pulls you straight into the pressure cooker of media scrutiny and buried secrets. The author gives us two gutsy women who trust their instincts, push against the grain and refuse to be boxed in, and that’s exactly what I loved most - and an unexpected interest in the smart detective proving herself in this male dominated field. The pace bites you dragging you in, the atmosphere tightens and the women at the centre carry the whole thing with grit and heart. I'd lke to check out number one in the series to learn more about these women.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and the author for my copy to read and review.
❓Which female protag do you love?
A tense, clever crime story that pulls you straight into the pressure cooker of media scrutiny and buried secrets. The author gives us two gutsy women who trust their instincts, push against the grain and refuse to be boxed in, and that’s exactly what I loved most - and an unexpected interest in the smart detective proving herself in this male dominated field. The pace bites you dragging you in, the atmosphere tightens and the women at the centre carry the whole thing with grit and heart. I'd lke to check out number one in the series to learn more about these women.
Thank you to Allen and Unwin and the author for my copy to read and review.
❓Which female protag do you love?
April 22, 2026
Sarah Bailey never disappoints. Click is a compelling police procedural meets crime reporting story, with a bit of serial killer flavour, and a vibey Melbourne setting. Pacing is spot on, twists are many, the ending is satisfying. A solid audio production also.
April 24, 2026
Oli Groves is back in Sarah Baileys' new book - Click. Once again Sarh Bailey delivery on Aussie crime at its best
Melbourne is in a chokehold of fear. A "photographer" is on the loose, not just killing, but flaunting his achievements by sending horrifying photos/videos of his victims directly to the media and police. It’s a terrifying performance, and I was hooked from page one.
Paired with the pressure of a digital news cycle, this is the ultimate modern thriller. It’s fast-paced, dark, and shows how technology can be used as a weapon.
I enjoyed the alternating perspectives from journalism Oli and police newcomer Pen Kibbs kept that suspense. If you haven't read - The Housemate, Click can easily be read as a standalone.
Thanks so much to Allen & Unwin Australia for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Melbourne is in a chokehold of fear. A "photographer" is on the loose, not just killing, but flaunting his achievements by sending horrifying photos/videos of his victims directly to the media and police. It’s a terrifying performance, and I was hooked from page one.
Paired with the pressure of a digital news cycle, this is the ultimate modern thriller. It’s fast-paced, dark, and shows how technology can be used as a weapon.
I enjoyed the alternating perspectives from journalism Oli and police newcomer Pen Kibbs kept that suspense. If you haven't read - The Housemate, Click can easily be read as a standalone.
Thanks so much to Allen & Unwin Australia for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 5, 2026
ARC review: Click by @sarah_bailey_author published by @allenandunwin and supplied by @netgalley
Release date: 31 March 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Well that was a wild ride! Click is told from two distinct POVs, Olive ‘Oli’ Groves, investigative journalist, and Detective Constable Penelope ‘Pen’ Kibbs. The story is set in Melbourne in early 2020 when Covid had not yet been labeled a pandemic.
We follow both FMCs as they investigate the disappearances and murders of multiple women across the city. Are these murders connected? Is there a serial killer on the loose trying to be the next Zodiac?
Tough issues are discussed like DV, violence against women and the manosphere, while following a 24 hour news cycle. This story is fast paced and keeps you guessing up until those final chapters. The action really kicks in at the 70% mark and I found myself not wanting to put the book down until I got to the conclusion.
Release date: 31 March 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Well that was a wild ride! Click is told from two distinct POVs, Olive ‘Oli’ Groves, investigative journalist, and Detective Constable Penelope ‘Pen’ Kibbs. The story is set in Melbourne in early 2020 when Covid had not yet been labeled a pandemic.
We follow both FMCs as they investigate the disappearances and murders of multiple women across the city. Are these murders connected? Is there a serial killer on the loose trying to be the next Zodiac?
Tough issues are discussed like DV, violence against women and the manosphere, while following a 24 hour news cycle. This story is fast paced and keeps you guessing up until those final chapters. The action really kicks in at the 70% mark and I found myself not wanting to put the book down until I got to the conclusion.
March 31, 2026
When Sarah Bailey’s stand-alone crime novel The Housemate ended it just felt like there may be more to come. And so we come to Click, once again featuring podcaster Olive ‘Oli’ Groves but this time sharing narrative duty with slightly messy, and probably as complicated, police detective Penelope ‘Pen’ Kibbs.
Click opens with a shocking image. A killer has sent a photo to one of the local Melbourne newspapers of a murdered woman. The woman is one that Pen and her partner had been looking for as she had been reported missing. The photograph seems to link the murder to the earlier killing of a backpacker and soon all police resources are on the case, slidelining the case of another missing woman who it is believed has been the victim of domestic violence. Meanwhile, Oli Groves is dealing with some devastating personal information while also working with her partner to grow their online news and podcasting business. These killings give Oli something to focus on while also finishing up her podcast series about domestic violence.
There is a lot going on in Click. Oli is dealing with her personal issues, an approach by her ex-boyfriend, an attempt to get together with her ex-partner who is one of the lead investigators in the Victorian police, finishing her podcast and then starting work on a new podcast series. Meanwhile Pen had her own relationship issues, is dealing with issues with her colleagues and is trying to link the murder cases and the missing persons case despite being dissuaded to do so by her superiors. And all that is before the twists and turns in the actual cases that they are trying to solve which also include blackmailing of high profile media personalities.
Given the amount that is going in it is possibly not surprising that some of the mystery gets sidelined in the rush. Two of the murders (one comes later and then there is possibly another disappearance) are never solved and the potential link between the murders is left hanging. It is unclear, once the dust settles, what the purpose of the media stunts was (they do provide some very tense moments in the narrative). And Oli’s second podcast, while on an interesting subject matter, is not really related to the main mystery and feels added just to increase the number of hot button issues at play (and there are plenty).
This frenetic pace, mirrors the state of Melbourne (and many other Australian cities) at the beginning of 2020. Major bushfires had caused dislocation in the regions and come close to the cities and news and rumours of COVID were starting to filter into the public consciousness. Bailey then layers this with a potential serial killer on the streets and splashed all over the news to create a high tension, high stakes environment for her characters.
Click is an interesting but sometimes frustrating return to the world of Oli Groves. As a podcaster, Oli cannot be in the centre of the investigation. But by setting her up with a narrative partner in Pen Kibbs, Bailey is able to play both the police and media angles (similar to the way Matthew Spencer mixes police and media in his books). Bailey keeps the pages turning with tense moments, cliffhangers and a real feeling of peril for her characters. But with two complex characters and a mix of crimes and investigations, Bailey may have taken on just a little too much content here.
Click opens with a shocking image. A killer has sent a photo to one of the local Melbourne newspapers of a murdered woman. The woman is one that Pen and her partner had been looking for as she had been reported missing. The photograph seems to link the murder to the earlier killing of a backpacker and soon all police resources are on the case, slidelining the case of another missing woman who it is believed has been the victim of domestic violence. Meanwhile, Oli Groves is dealing with some devastating personal information while also working with her partner to grow their online news and podcasting business. These killings give Oli something to focus on while also finishing up her podcast series about domestic violence.
There is a lot going on in Click. Oli is dealing with her personal issues, an approach by her ex-boyfriend, an attempt to get together with her ex-partner who is one of the lead investigators in the Victorian police, finishing her podcast and then starting work on a new podcast series. Meanwhile Pen had her own relationship issues, is dealing with issues with her colleagues and is trying to link the murder cases and the missing persons case despite being dissuaded to do so by her superiors. And all that is before the twists and turns in the actual cases that they are trying to solve which also include blackmailing of high profile media personalities.
Given the amount that is going in it is possibly not surprising that some of the mystery gets sidelined in the rush. Two of the murders (one comes later and then there is possibly another disappearance) are never solved and the potential link between the murders is left hanging. It is unclear, once the dust settles, what the purpose of the media stunts was (they do provide some very tense moments in the narrative). And Oli’s second podcast, while on an interesting subject matter, is not really related to the main mystery and feels added just to increase the number of hot button issues at play (and there are plenty).
This frenetic pace, mirrors the state of Melbourne (and many other Australian cities) at the beginning of 2020. Major bushfires had caused dislocation in the regions and come close to the cities and news and rumours of COVID were starting to filter into the public consciousness. Bailey then layers this with a potential serial killer on the streets and splashed all over the news to create a high tension, high stakes environment for her characters.
Click is an interesting but sometimes frustrating return to the world of Oli Groves. As a podcaster, Oli cannot be in the centre of the investigation. But by setting her up with a narrative partner in Pen Kibbs, Bailey is able to play both the police and media angles (similar to the way Matthew Spencer mixes police and media in his books). Bailey keeps the pages turning with tense moments, cliffhangers and a real feeling of peril for her characters. But with two complex characters and a mix of crimes and investigations, Bailey may have taken on just a little too much content here.
May 1, 2026
Sarah's previous book was one of my favourites so I couldn't wait to dive into the next Oli Groves instalment.
Oli is still the MC but another plotline involves a young detective constable whose path crosses with Oli's and you experience the story unfolding through both points of view. It's set in pre- pandemic Melbourne.
Melbourne is gripped by the disappearance of multiple young women with the potential there's a serial killer on the loose. This book has alot happening with the disappearances but we also see Oli struggling in her personal life and at a crossroads in her professional life. We learn more about the impact of her childhood into adulthood and how it impacts her relationships.
Click was a glimpse into crime fighting and investigatory journalism looking into chat rooms, the Dark Web, and criminals using the media as their voice.
Another great book by Sarah - probably not quite as edgy given the different aspects of the book and Oli's circumstances, but this leaves great opportunity for more books featuring these characters.
Thanks to the publisher for my early copy.
Oli is still the MC but another plotline involves a young detective constable whose path crosses with Oli's and you experience the story unfolding through both points of view. It's set in pre- pandemic Melbourne.
Melbourne is gripped by the disappearance of multiple young women with the potential there's a serial killer on the loose. This book has alot happening with the disappearances but we also see Oli struggling in her personal life and at a crossroads in her professional life. We learn more about the impact of her childhood into adulthood and how it impacts her relationships.
Click was a glimpse into crime fighting and investigatory journalism looking into chat rooms, the Dark Web, and criminals using the media as their voice.
Another great book by Sarah - probably not quite as edgy given the different aspects of the book and Oli's circumstances, but this leaves great opportunity for more books featuring these characters.
Thanks to the publisher for my early copy.
March 31, 2026
5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibe check: Cybercrime, Social Media Serial Killer, Suspenseful
full review ⬇️
This was my first Sarah Bailey and I can confirm the gal does crime fiction SO well!
I am noticing more crime dramas are entering into the tech criminal world and Click enters this domain but stands out because it feels so grounded in reality.
The investigation tackles strong themes including serial killers, cybercrime and domestic violence but unfolds patiently and authentically without unnecessary drama, just strong storytelling and a case that slowly tightened its grip on me.
The pacing built steadily, revealing connections layer by layer and I found myself completely invested in both the mystery and the dual views from the perspective of both the police and media.
One aspect I especially loved was how realistically the book portrays policing. It acknowledges the uncomfortable truth that some cases are inevitably pushed aside when bigger, high profile investigations take priority. That detail added so much authenticity and made the stakes feel much more real.
I had the pleasure of hearing Sarah Bailey speak about this book and her writing process, which made reading this even more rewarding. You can genuinely see the thought, research and care woven through every part of the story and I’ll be going back to read the first book in this series The Housemate ASAP (this was fine as a stand alone too!)
If you love crime novels that prioritise character, realism and intelligent plotting this one absolutely delivers.
A big thank you to Allen and Unwin for sharing this one with me.
Vibe check: Cybercrime, Social Media Serial Killer, Suspenseful
full review ⬇️
This was my first Sarah Bailey and I can confirm the gal does crime fiction SO well!
I am noticing more crime dramas are entering into the tech criminal world and Click enters this domain but stands out because it feels so grounded in reality.
The investigation tackles strong themes including serial killers, cybercrime and domestic violence but unfolds patiently and authentically without unnecessary drama, just strong storytelling and a case that slowly tightened its grip on me.
The pacing built steadily, revealing connections layer by layer and I found myself completely invested in both the mystery and the dual views from the perspective of both the police and media.
One aspect I especially loved was how realistically the book portrays policing. It acknowledges the uncomfortable truth that some cases are inevitably pushed aside when bigger, high profile investigations take priority. That detail added so much authenticity and made the stakes feel much more real.
I had the pleasure of hearing Sarah Bailey speak about this book and her writing process, which made reading this even more rewarding. You can genuinely see the thought, research and care woven through every part of the story and I’ll be going back to read the first book in this series The Housemate ASAP (this was fine as a stand alone too!)
If you love crime novels that prioritise character, realism and intelligent plotting this one absolutely delivers.
A big thank you to Allen and Unwin for sharing this one with me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC NetGallery & Allen & Unwin
A slow burn crime thriller set in Australia told through the perspectives of Oli a reporter and Penelope a detective.
As the story unfolds more women go missing and the investigation forces both women to confront the subject of domestic violence and sex crimes online.
April 27, 2026
I had high hopes for this one but it wasn’t to be. A messy storyline with way too much extraneous detail and side plots. Unfortunately the dual perspective of police narrative and journalist narratives didn’t work. It was needlessly repetitive at times and rather than adding tension it broke tension. At times I was flicking through pages wanting it over. And sadly in among the messy plot lines there was no space for character development and connection. I felt like if I closed the book I would forget all about them.
March 30, 2026
Click by Sarah Bailey is a sequel to her 2021 book
The Housemate
where we first met Olive (Oli) Groves. Apparently I wasn't alone in wanting to see more of the tenacious but likeable journalist as Bailey has resurrected that character in her new thriller.
I loved the 'real time' approach adopted by Bailey here... like the TV show 24. It keeps the pace moving without slowing or careening to a conclusion, ensuring this is another enjoyable read.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
I loved the 'real time' approach adopted by Bailey here... like the TV show 24. It keeps the pace moving without slowing or careening to a conclusion, ensuring this is another enjoyable read.
Read my review here: https://www.debbish.com/books-literat...
April 14, 2026
I feel bad, but this book just wasn’t for me. I absolutely love the Gemma series and I love Sarah Bailey’s writing style. However, this book just didn’t hit the mark for me and I think it’s because I enjoy police procedurals more. Which this book isn’t. And that’s okay. The book wasn’t terrible. I just found it difficult to get through because I wasn’t particularly interested in the plot or the characters.
May 15, 2026
What a great book.
April 17, 2026
It feels like I’ve been waiting a while for Sarah Bailey’s new novel, but it was worth the wait. This is a strong crime novel with engaging characters.
This is cleverly plotted – I was looking in the right direction for some things, but Bailey still managed to neatly mislead me and provide plenty of genuine surprises and twists in the story.
Although some of the characters are familiar from The Housemate, I found it took me a few chapters to feel connected to them again. Perhaps that’s just due to the length of time since I read that book; perhaps it’s an effect of the “book time” that has elapsed for the characters. Either way, it didn’t take much longer than it would have to connect with new characters.
This could easily be read as a stand alone; although readers who’ve read The Housemate will get a little more out of the character development, neither the plot or setting are dependent on that novel. However, I note that the ending of this one left a surprising number of plot threads dangling. This could be Bailey reflecting the fact that real life doesn’t always tie everything up in neat packages; it could be a sign that there’s another novel coming, one which will be more dependent on this one.
This has the flavour of a police procedural, though the focus on Olive means that is a little diluted. However, I really appreciated the way Bailey conveys the sense of the detail of the investigation, including the way police slog through certain routines. They know that a lot of their enquiries are going to be wasted time, but they recognise the necessity of exploring those avenues anyway.
I enjoyed the contrasting investigations by the podcasters and the police. Both know they need defensible evidence, and both have time pressures. They take rather different approaches though, and this was one of the many interesting procedural aspects of the novel.
It’s not by any means a dry investigation. The personalities of podcasters and police are vivid and believable, and will strongly engage readers. The focus was predominantly on female characters and I found the differences and similarities between them added to my interest.
I don’t mind some loose ends at the end of a novel – I think that reflects reality. There were perhaps a few too many here for me to feel really satisfied at the end, but I’m hopeful that means Bailey isn’t finished with this interesting story and engaging characters yet.
Recommended for readers who like Australian, contemporary crime novels. Particularly recommended if you like your stories character driven.
You may be interested in my reviews of other novels by Sarah Bailey:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
This is cleverly plotted – I was looking in the right direction for some things, but Bailey still managed to neatly mislead me and provide plenty of genuine surprises and twists in the story.
Although some of the characters are familiar from The Housemate, I found it took me a few chapters to feel connected to them again. Perhaps that’s just due to the length of time since I read that book; perhaps it’s an effect of the “book time” that has elapsed for the characters. Either way, it didn’t take much longer than it would have to connect with new characters.
This could easily be read as a stand alone; although readers who’ve read The Housemate will get a little more out of the character development, neither the plot or setting are dependent on that novel. However, I note that the ending of this one left a surprising number of plot threads dangling. This could be Bailey reflecting the fact that real life doesn’t always tie everything up in neat packages; it could be a sign that there’s another novel coming, one which will be more dependent on this one.
This has the flavour of a police procedural, though the focus on Olive means that is a little diluted. However, I really appreciated the way Bailey conveys the sense of the detail of the investigation, including the way police slog through certain routines. They know that a lot of their enquiries are going to be wasted time, but they recognise the necessity of exploring those avenues anyway.
I enjoyed the contrasting investigations by the podcasters and the police. Both know they need defensible evidence, and both have time pressures. They take rather different approaches though, and this was one of the many interesting procedural aspects of the novel.
It’s not by any means a dry investigation. The personalities of podcasters and police are vivid and believable, and will strongly engage readers. The focus was predominantly on female characters and I found the differences and similarities between them added to my interest.
I don’t mind some loose ends at the end of a novel – I think that reflects reality. There were perhaps a few too many here for me to feel really satisfied at the end, but I’m hopeful that means Bailey isn’t finished with this interesting story and engaging characters yet.
Recommended for readers who like Australian, contemporary crime novels. Particularly recommended if you like your stories character driven.
You may be interested in my reviews of other novels by Sarah Bailey:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
April 17, 2026
I read The Housemate years ago and loved it, so I was super excited for the return of Olive Groves! This was a gripping read that made me (once again) frustrated at how women are targeted for doing nothing but existing.
Melbourne is seemingly dealing with a serial killer who wants publicity and notoriety. It starts when a backpackers body is found and then two more women vanish. It’s not immediately obvious there’s a link, but when photos and videos start being sent to the media and police it becomes clear there’s a sick individual running free. Journalist Olive Groves and her business partner TJ are determined to cover the cases with empathy and sensitivity, and the police are working hard to find the person responsible and hold them to account. For young detective Penelope Kibbs it’s depressing work, and the culprit is smart which makes things harder. They’re under public pressure too to prevent more women coming to harm.
Even though I have read The Housemate, I didn’t remember much about Olive and I think this could definitely be read independently. I got nervous when I started this that I’d have to DNF because it’s set in the early days of COVID and as someone who works in health I really struggle to read anything where COVID is almost like a character itself but it was just mentioned a few times so we were ok haha. I was super hooked on this once I was a few chapters deep, and I genuinely couldn’t figure out who the culprit might be. I love seeing journalists with a strong moral compass portrayed and Olive and TJ are admirable in their reporting. Penelope was great too - it was cool to see perspectives from both inside and outside the official investigation. I would love to see more of these characters in the future! We see some pretty major events happens in their lives and I need updates!!! Overall this was a great crime novel that I would defiantly recommend! Thanks to @allenandunwinnz for sending this my way 🫶
Melbourne is seemingly dealing with a serial killer who wants publicity and notoriety. It starts when a backpackers body is found and then two more women vanish. It’s not immediately obvious there’s a link, but when photos and videos start being sent to the media and police it becomes clear there’s a sick individual running free. Journalist Olive Groves and her business partner TJ are determined to cover the cases with empathy and sensitivity, and the police are working hard to find the person responsible and hold them to account. For young detective Penelope Kibbs it’s depressing work, and the culprit is smart which makes things harder. They’re under public pressure too to prevent more women coming to harm.
Even though I have read The Housemate, I didn’t remember much about Olive and I think this could definitely be read independently. I got nervous when I started this that I’d have to DNF because it’s set in the early days of COVID and as someone who works in health I really struggle to read anything where COVID is almost like a character itself but it was just mentioned a few times so we were ok haha. I was super hooked on this once I was a few chapters deep, and I genuinely couldn’t figure out who the culprit might be. I love seeing journalists with a strong moral compass portrayed and Olive and TJ are admirable in their reporting. Penelope was great too - it was cool to see perspectives from both inside and outside the official investigation. I would love to see more of these characters in the future! We see some pretty major events happens in their lives and I need updates!!! Overall this was a great crime novel that I would defiantly recommend! Thanks to @allenandunwinnz for sending this my way 🫶
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5★ rounded up. I always hoped Bailey would bring Melbourne journo, Olive Groves, back again one day. And now, 5 years have passed, and here she is! I'm happy to report it was worth the wait.
A lot has changed for Olive in that time though. She's no longer working for the newspaper, having established an up-and-coming online news service with her former Melbourne Today colleague TJ, and she's no longer a podcast novice. The world loves her voice, and she has learnt to capitalise on that through both podcasts of her long-form journalism and on-the-fly audio content for Newsday. Personally Olive has had some pretty big changes too.
It all begins with a young Melbourne woman, Lyra Makris, who has gone missing after last being seen at a high-end house party. DI Mike Barnes and DC Penelope (Pen) Kibbs are temporarily pulled off their ongoing investigation of another missing woman - a Camberwell mum - to conduct a welfare check on Lyra. Their visit to her tidy flat offers no clues, but when a macabre photograph is sent to the Melbourne Today newsroom, all hell breaks loose.
This is another many-stranded but pacy and taut thriller from Sarah Bailey, that had me guessing right up until the end. Throughout the case we are looking over the shoulders of both Olive and Pen, seeing how everything unfolds from both a media and a police perspective. Both are great characters and I absolutely loved it! Fingers crossed Olive overcomes her personal challenges and comes back in another book soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read and review this highly anticipated new release.
A lot has changed for Olive in that time though. She's no longer working for the newspaper, having established an up-and-coming online news service with her former Melbourne Today colleague TJ, and she's no longer a podcast novice. The world loves her voice, and she has learnt to capitalise on that through both podcasts of her long-form journalism and on-the-fly audio content for Newsday. Personally Olive has had some pretty big changes too.
It all begins with a young Melbourne woman, Lyra Makris, who has gone missing after last being seen at a high-end house party. DI Mike Barnes and DC Penelope (Pen) Kibbs are temporarily pulled off their ongoing investigation of another missing woman - a Camberwell mum - to conduct a welfare check on Lyra. Their visit to her tidy flat offers no clues, but when a macabre photograph is sent to the Melbourne Today newsroom, all hell breaks loose.
This is another many-stranded but pacy and taut thriller from Sarah Bailey, that had me guessing right up until the end. Throughout the case we are looking over the shoulders of both Olive and Pen, seeing how everything unfolds from both a media and a police perspective. Both are great characters and I absolutely loved it! Fingers crossed Olive overcomes her personal challenges and comes back in another book soon.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the opportunity to read and review this highly anticipated new release.
April 2, 2026
Click by Sarah Bailey
Click is the second book in the series featuring journalist Oli Groves; the first one was The Housemate. I don't think you need to have read The Housemate for Click to make sense, but it's an excellent read that combines police investigating a murder mystery with a reporter/podcaster, so I'd recommend it.
Melbourne is gripped by fear after a backpacker's body is found with a cryptic note, and two more women vanish without a trace. Is there a serial killer on the loose? Two women are desperate to find the truth: journalist Olive (Oli) Groves, the co-founder of a digital news site, and rookie detective Penelope Kibbs, both determined to prove themselves.
Click is a police procedural that explores the darker side of our digital lives, the relentless pressures of modern policing, and the challenges of a fast-news cycle. I was so drawn in by the story that I switched to the audiobook version halfway through so I could continue listening while I went about my life.
If you enjoy books that examine how news and podcasts are made or police procedurals or psychological thrillers, like Dark Mode or Like, Follow Die by @akalagianblunt, or This Story Might Save Your Life by @bytiffanycrum or books by J.P. Pomare @jppomare, Dervla McTiernan @dervlamctiernan or Fleur McDonald @fleurmcdonaldauthor, then I think you'll like this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen and Unwin for the eARC of Click by Sarah Bailey; it's out now.
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@allenandunwin #allenandunwin @sarah_bailey_author #NetGalley @NetGalley
Click is the second book in the series featuring journalist Oli Groves; the first one was The Housemate. I don't think you need to have read The Housemate for Click to make sense, but it's an excellent read that combines police investigating a murder mystery with a reporter/podcaster, so I'd recommend it.
Melbourne is gripped by fear after a backpacker's body is found with a cryptic note, and two more women vanish without a trace. Is there a serial killer on the loose? Two women are desperate to find the truth: journalist Olive (Oli) Groves, the co-founder of a digital news site, and rookie detective Penelope Kibbs, both determined to prove themselves.
Click is a police procedural that explores the darker side of our digital lives, the relentless pressures of modern policing, and the challenges of a fast-news cycle. I was so drawn in by the story that I switched to the audiobook version halfway through so I could continue listening while I went about my life.
If you enjoy books that examine how news and podcasts are made or police procedurals or psychological thrillers, like Dark Mode or Like, Follow Die by @akalagianblunt, or This Story Might Save Your Life by @bytiffanycrum or books by J.P. Pomare @jppomare, Dervla McTiernan @dervlamctiernan or Fleur McDonald @fleurmcdonaldauthor, then I think you'll like this one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen and Unwin for the eARC of Click by Sarah Bailey; it's out now.
#BigThumbsup
#2026bookshelf #DesignNerd #booksdeevaareads
@allenandunwin #allenandunwin @sarah_bailey_author #NetGalley @NetGalley
April 29, 2026
I first feel in love with Bailey’s writing after reading Dark Lake. The details she provides around police, their policies and procedures, is extremely interesting, it’s fiction but the details make it sometimes read as a non fiction if that makes any sense. In the first half of the book I struggled keeping track of all the characters, there were so so many, both detectives and suspects.. having their surnames used in some chapters and their first name used in others took me longer to figure out than I’d like to admit. Once I hit the 250 page mark, I was off and could not put the book down, multiple stories were flowing but still not intertwining. Extremely fast paced over the last 50 pages and had my heart racing, and I always feel a little sad when the endings are so rushed after spending so many chapters building the storyline. I loved the alternative chapters told through Pen and Ol, getting perspectives from both a detective and journalist made the read more interesting. Throughout the entirety of the book, Bailey brings to life the raw emotion and detail of domestic violence, the entitled men whom inflict it, and the never ending struggle to keep on top of cybersecurity and ever changing AI. Definitely a potential trigger warning for those who have experienced domestic violence but a great read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Big thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
As technology and AI advances and governs our lives we all get caught up in clicking our way through the day.
Social media likes and quick access to taking photos is all part of the fast pace we live in.
It was inevitable that criminals utilise, hide behind and manipulate technology enhancement.
Melbourne is the scene for murder and disappearance.
A summer of deadly bushfires and the threat of a virus that could close down the world are brewing as a potential serial killer is on the loose.
A killer that plays with the police and the media outlets.
Oli Groves seizes the opportunity to investigate, knowing resolution will elevate her profile and podcast patronage.
Young Detective Pene Kibbs also needs to make her mark with this case.
They both delve into an arena where domestic violence, cyber bullying and the dark web are prolific.
I liken this to the reading equivalent of being on a rollercoaster, where anticipation leads to fear and drama and at the end you can breathe a sigh of relief.
The themes of this gripping read are real and depicts the fear women can face.
As technology and AI advances and governs our lives we all get caught up in clicking our way through the day.
Social media likes and quick access to taking photos is all part of the fast pace we live in.
It was inevitable that criminals utilise, hide behind and manipulate technology enhancement.
Melbourne is the scene for murder and disappearance.
A summer of deadly bushfires and the threat of a virus that could close down the world are brewing as a potential serial killer is on the loose.
A killer that plays with the police and the media outlets.
Oli Groves seizes the opportunity to investigate, knowing resolution will elevate her profile and podcast patronage.
Young Detective Pene Kibbs also needs to make her mark with this case.
They both delve into an arena where domestic violence, cyber bullying and the dark web are prolific.
I liken this to the reading equivalent of being on a rollercoaster, where anticipation leads to fear and drama and at the end you can breathe a sigh of relief.
The themes of this gripping read are real and depicts the fear women can face.
March 30, 2026
Another outstanding novel by the author!
A backpacker's body is found with a cryptic note and two more women have disappeared without a trace. The city of Melbourne is in fear of who may be next. Rookie Detective Penelope Kibbs is working with Detective Inspector Mike Barnes as he investigates but they seem to be getting nowhere.
Journalist Oli Groves, founder of a news site, is also investigating and reporting on the news, with her partner TJ. As the story continues, we see different threads come together to form an explosive ending.
Another sensational novel by the author! It was so good to see Oli back after The Housemate. That said, I read The Housemate back in 2021 and you can definitely enjoy this one as a stand alone, as the author provides ample background. Not only are the characters battling the crimes, but they have a lot going on in their own lives and the author always draws you in with the complex and rich stories she weaves. I did not guess the way in which this would unfold and I could not put this down!
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for this gifted review copy.
A backpacker's body is found with a cryptic note and two more women have disappeared without a trace. The city of Melbourne is in fear of who may be next. Rookie Detective Penelope Kibbs is working with Detective Inspector Mike Barnes as he investigates but they seem to be getting nowhere.
Journalist Oli Groves, founder of a news site, is also investigating and reporting on the news, with her partner TJ. As the story continues, we see different threads come together to form an explosive ending.
Another sensational novel by the author! It was so good to see Oli back after The Housemate. That said, I read The Housemate back in 2021 and you can definitely enjoy this one as a stand alone, as the author provides ample background. Not only are the characters battling the crimes, but they have a lot going on in their own lives and the author always draws you in with the complex and rich stories she weaves. I did not guess the way in which this would unfold and I could not put this down!
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for this gifted review copy.
May 11, 2026
𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘: 2.5/5 ☆
This pains me to say because I wanted to love it so badly, but this one just wasn't for me 😫
Click is centred around returning character Oli Groves (a journalist) and new character
Penelope Kibbs; a rookie detective. Through their respective jobs they're both investigating the murder of one woman and the disappearance of two more. The killer is getting more bold as each day passes, they begin sending photos to the media and police.
I actually enjoyed the premise and Bailey's writing style but I just felt like nothing happened for 90% of the book. There was an explosive couple of chapters at the end but I'd long since lost my investment in the characters. It felt like the story just scratched the surface of the plot and characters with a few aspects feeling underdeveloped and other parts unfinished. Simply put, I wanted more. More investigation into the crimes and more character development especially for Penelope.
Here's the thing, we all know not everyone is going to love every book and that's perfectly okay. This one was a miss for me but some of my booksta friends really enjoyed it. Definitely worth checking out for yourself
This pains me to say because I wanted to love it so badly, but this one just wasn't for me 😫
Click is centred around returning character Oli Groves (a journalist) and new character
Penelope Kibbs; a rookie detective. Through their respective jobs they're both investigating the murder of one woman and the disappearance of two more. The killer is getting more bold as each day passes, they begin sending photos to the media and police.
I actually enjoyed the premise and Bailey's writing style but I just felt like nothing happened for 90% of the book. There was an explosive couple of chapters at the end but I'd long since lost my investment in the characters. It felt like the story just scratched the surface of the plot and characters with a few aspects feeling underdeveloped and other parts unfinished. Simply put, I wanted more. More investigation into the crimes and more character development especially for Penelope.
Here's the thing, we all know not everyone is going to love every book and that's perfectly okay. This one was a miss for me but some of my booksta friends really enjoyed it. Definitely worth checking out for yourself
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another 5 star read from Sarah Bailey. In Click we are reacquainted with investigative journalist Olive ‘Oli’ Groves, who we met in The Housemate, and introduced to rookie Detective, Penelope ‘Pen’ Kibbs.
They are both chasing a serial killer who is terrorising women in Melbourne in early 2020. It was a little disconcerting to be reminded of those early days of Covid, before it became a pandemic.
The plot twists and turns in ways I didn’t expect – and just when I thought I had figured out who did it, I realised I hadn’t! And while I loved the crime side, I also appreciated the insights into the personal lives of Oli and Pen, and the challenges that come with being a kick-ass woman who wants to achieve great things in her career.
I really hope we get a third book in this series as I want to hear more about Oli and Pen.
5 stars
Thank you Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for sending me an advance copy of Click.
They are both chasing a serial killer who is terrorising women in Melbourne in early 2020. It was a little disconcerting to be reminded of those early days of Covid, before it became a pandemic.
The plot twists and turns in ways I didn’t expect – and just when I thought I had figured out who did it, I realised I hadn’t! And while I loved the crime side, I also appreciated the insights into the personal lives of Oli and Pen, and the challenges that come with being a kick-ass woman who wants to achieve great things in her career.
I really hope we get a third book in this series as I want to hear more about Oli and Pen.
5 stars
Thank you Netgalley and Allen & Unwin for sending me an advance copy of Click.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my second Sarah Bailey book. The first one I read was Body of Lies, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I now have her other 3 Gemma Woodstock books and the first Olive Groves book on my tbr pile.
Having not read The Housemate, the first Olive Groves book, didn't detract at all from my enjoyment of this one. There were references to past relationships and events that occurred years ago, but they were sufficiently explained.
I was hooked from the start with the premise of this book, and it has left things open nicely to move straight into book 3, continuing on from the events in this story.
Love the in depth descriptions of the investigations, both by the police and the reporters. The digital age certainly is a scary place these days.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Having not read The Housemate, the first Olive Groves book, didn't detract at all from my enjoyment of this one. There were references to past relationships and events that occurred years ago, but they were sufficiently explained.
I was hooked from the start with the premise of this book, and it has left things open nicely to move straight into book 3, continuing on from the events in this story.
Love the in depth descriptions of the investigations, both by the police and the reporters. The digital age certainly is a scary place these days.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really loved The Housemate so it was a delightful surprise to see that Sarah Bailey has written a sequel. I love way Sarah Bailey writes complicated, messy and just very human characters. Oli has come a long way since the first book and this time we see her dealing with a personal crisis while doggedly pursuing a serial killer terrorising women, the issue of teenage sexting (though ewww, did NOT need Dean returning) and her and TJ's business's growing pains. I had some inkling who the culprit might be, and alas I was completely wrong (but close enough!). I enjoyed the dual action switching between Oli and Pen, who was also a character I felt for as she battles her own trauma while witnessing the horrific aftermath of murder. I also enjoyed seeing TJ - a man who was her work rival, become a solid business partner. They both have complementary skills and I enjoyed seeing more of him.
My only quibble is that there's a error from The Housemate where TJ's wife is called Angela in that book but now she's Carol. However that didn't affect my enjoyment.
This book had everything that I love about crime -a solid, well-paced thriller featuring two complex, nuanced female characters and developments that had me guessing. Could crime loving readers please buy this book so we can have a book three (and hopefully not a five year wait!)?
My only quibble is that there's a error from The Housemate where TJ's wife is called Angela in that book but now she's Carol. However that didn't affect my enjoyment.
This book had everything that I love about crime -a solid, well-paced thriller featuring two complex, nuanced female characters and developments that had me guessing. Could crime loving readers please buy this book so we can have a book three (and hopefully not a five year wait!)?
March 30, 2026
I absolutely devoured this new thriller from Sarah Bailey, and definitely stayed up past my bedtime reading as I just couldn't put it down.
I loved re-uniting with journalist Oli Groves, who we first met in Sarah's previous thriller, The Housemate.
Set just in 2020, just before the world headed into lockdown, I really enjoyed how the looming pandemic is hinted at as Melbourne is in the grip of a potential serial killer threat.
This is definitely a thriller for our times. with cybercrime, world pandemics, the manosphere all looming as threats.
I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a great, paper turning, plot twisting thriller and congratulations Sarah on another nail-biting read.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for the review copy of this book
I loved re-uniting with journalist Oli Groves, who we first met in Sarah's previous thriller, The Housemate.
Set just in 2020, just before the world headed into lockdown, I really enjoyed how the looming pandemic is hinted at as Melbourne is in the grip of a potential serial killer threat.
This is definitely a thriller for our times. with cybercrime, world pandemics, the manosphere all looming as threats.
I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a great, paper turning, plot twisting thriller and congratulations Sarah on another nail-biting read.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for the review copy of this book
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Another excellent read from Sarah Bailey, a story presented from two points of view. Journalist Oli Groves and rookie detective Penelope Kibbs.
Groves is grappling with some concerning personal news as well as considering a change of career path, whilst still drowning herself in her work. She's searching out a potential serial killer haunting Melbourne, a killer performing by sending cryptic notes, photos and videos. Kibbs is also on the hunt for the killer, and we see matters from the police angle.
Lots of sub-plots including themes of domestic violence and teenage sexting, there's a lot to delve into with this one.
Groves is grappling with some concerning personal news as well as considering a change of career path, whilst still drowning herself in her work. She's searching out a potential serial killer haunting Melbourne, a killer performing by sending cryptic notes, photos and videos. Kibbs is also on the hunt for the killer, and we see matters from the police angle.
Lots of sub-plots including themes of domestic violence and teenage sexting, there's a lot to delve into with this one.
April 4, 2026
This was a very easy read, and I felt like I just flew right through it!
I didn't actually realize until I was partway through the story that this is book two in a series. Because I jumped in the middle, there were a few little bits of backstory and references to things that happened in the previous installment that I missed. However, it wasn't enough to make me feel lost or confused. You definitely don't need to have read the first book to understand the plot, so you can absolutely jump straight into this one and enjoy it as a standalone.
I didn't actually realize until I was partway through the story that this is book two in a series. Because I jumped in the middle, there were a few little bits of backstory and references to things that happened in the previous installment that I missed. However, it wasn't enough to make me feel lost or confused. You definitely don't need to have read the first book to understand the plot, so you can absolutely jump straight into this one and enjoy it as a standalone.
April 13, 2026
Thank you to Allen and Unwin for my pre-release copy of Click by Sarah Bailey.
Being a big fan of Sarah Bailey's books and having read all of the previous books, I was very excited to receive a copy of Click.
once again, I was not disappointed. The story had realistic characters with everyday flaws that the rest of us have. Also appreciated the local setting, which made the story even more relateable.
Whilst not giving anything away, I can see that there is the possibility of another Oli Grove book down the track.
I absolutely loved it and look forward to the next one.
Thank you again.
Being a big fan of Sarah Bailey's books and having read all of the previous books, I was very excited to receive a copy of Click.
once again, I was not disappointed. The story had realistic characters with everyday flaws that the rest of us have. Also appreciated the local setting, which made the story even more relateable.
Whilst not giving anything away, I can see that there is the possibility of another Oli Grove book down the track.
I absolutely loved it and look forward to the next one.
Thank you again.
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