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What Rhymes with Murder?
Only Murders in the Building
meets
The Thursday Murder Club
in this hilarious new take on cosy crime.
‘I loved this charming story about murder, motherhood and caffeine. Frida is a delight; a quirky and modern Miss Marple.’ SARAH BAILEY, author of The Housemate
When exhausted new mother Frida attends Baby Rhyme Time at the local library, she feels a sense of purpose that has been lacking in her anxious, apartment-bound, sleep-deprived life. But at the end of the session a piercing scream is heard, followed by the thump of a body, and the library becomes a crime scene.
Before long, Frida finds herself part of an unlikely group of sleuths investigating the murder. Between gossip and cups of magic at their local cafe, they are too busy having fun to realise how close they are to danger . . .
‘Sharp, funny and sneakily profound.' VIKKI PETRAITIS, author of The Unbelieved
‘Murder, mystery and sharp takes on motherhood, all threaded into a great domestic noir. Oh, and it’s a hoot!’ MATTHEW SPENCER, author of Black River
‘I loved this charming story about murder, motherhood and caffeine. Frida is a delight; a quirky and modern Miss Marple.’ SARAH BAILEY, author of The Housemate
When exhausted new mother Frida attends Baby Rhyme Time at the local library, she feels a sense of purpose that has been lacking in her anxious, apartment-bound, sleep-deprived life. But at the end of the session a piercing scream is heard, followed by the thump of a body, and the library becomes a crime scene.
Before long, Frida finds herself part of an unlikely group of sleuths investigating the murder. Between gossip and cups of magic at their local cafe, they are too busy having fun to realise how close they are to danger . . .
‘Sharp, funny and sneakily profound.' VIKKI PETRAITIS, author of The Unbelieved
‘Murder, mystery and sharp takes on motherhood, all threaded into a great domestic noir. Oh, and it’s a hoot!’ MATTHEW SPENCER, author of Black River
Audible Audio
Published February 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 25, 2026
What Rhymes with Murder by Penny Tangey
★★★★
A story about motherhood! I’m sold. Frida was a relatable first time mum who is trying to nail the whole parenting thing. She wants to get everything right and if you don’t attend Baby Rhyme Time then is your baby really hitting their milestones? (I’m kidding).
I loved how familiar this felt to me as a mother but then also so wildly unique finding a deceased body at the library would be. I don’t think I would have reacted the way Frida did which made the story feel a little unbelievable to me.
There were many twists and turns. Some turns were sharper than others. This was an enjoyable, easy and fast-paced read and I loved the whole experience of reading it.
Thank you @simonandschuster for the opportunity to review this book.
★★★★
A story about motherhood! I’m sold. Frida was a relatable first time mum who is trying to nail the whole parenting thing. She wants to get everything right and if you don’t attend Baby Rhyme Time then is your baby really hitting their milestones? (I’m kidding).
I loved how familiar this felt to me as a mother but then also so wildly unique finding a deceased body at the library would be. I don’t think I would have reacted the way Frida did which made the story feel a little unbelievable to me.
There were many twists and turns. Some turns were sharper than others. This was an enjoyable, easy and fast-paced read and I loved the whole experience of reading it.
Thank you @simonandschuster for the opportunity to review this book.
April 2, 2026
When I saw this likened to Only.Murders in the Building and Thursday Murder Club I had to read it. A big thank you to Simon and Schuster for sending g me a copy to read. It was such a fun cozy mystery that also deals with some tough subjects like abortion and women’s rights.
Frida was a great main character. I could relate to her, remembering back to when my girls were babies and how hard it can be to even leave the house. I could feel her pain and loved seeing how she came out of her shell more as the book goes on.
A dead body in a library… now that sounds like an Agatha Christie story. It was a great story and the setting was perfect. I love it when ordinary citizens try to solve a murder. The perpetrator was a complete shock to me, so very well done by the author.
A quick and easy read, out now.
Frida was a great main character. I could relate to her, remembering back to when my girls were babies and how hard it can be to even leave the house. I could feel her pain and loved seeing how she came out of her shell more as the book goes on.
A dead body in a library… now that sounds like an Agatha Christie story. It was a great story and the setting was perfect. I love it when ordinary citizens try to solve a murder. The perpetrator was a complete shock to me, so very well done by the author.
A quick and easy read, out now.
March 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.25/5
𝙻𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚒𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚝𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚜𝚘 𝙸 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚑𝚊𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚘𝚜𝚢 𝚖𝚞𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚢/𝚌𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚕𝚒𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚛𝚢 (say less) 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚑 𝙸'𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚃𝚑𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝙼𝚞𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝙲𝚕𝚞𝚋 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙰𝚞𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚎 𝚒𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚛 𝙼𝚎𝚕𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎 𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗.
𝙰𝚗 𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝟸𝟼𝟻 𝚙𝚊𝚐𝚎𝚜 𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙸 𝚏𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚙𝚊𝚐𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚎𝚍.
𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚟𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚐𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚋𝚢 𝚊 𝚖𝚒𝚡𝚎𝚍 𝚐𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚙 𝚘𝚏 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚋𝚞𝚛𝚋𝚊𝚗 𝚗𝚎𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚋𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘𝚐𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚜𝚎.
𝙸𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚏 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚛𝚞𝚗 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚕𝚔 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚞𝚙 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢!
𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄: 𝐈 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 ’𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞’ 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐋𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭)
𝙻𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚒𝚍𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚝𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚜𝚘 𝙸 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚑𝚊𝚕𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚘𝚜𝚢 𝚖𝚞𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚢/𝚌𝚛𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚕𝚒𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚛𝚢 (say less) 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚑 𝙸'𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚃𝚑𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝙼𝚞𝚛𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝙲𝚕𝚞𝚋 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙰𝚞𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚎 𝚒𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚛 𝙼𝚎𝚕𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚎 𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚘𝚗.
𝙰𝚗 𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚢 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊 𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝟸𝟼𝟻 𝚙𝚊𝚐𝚎𝚜 𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐 𝙸 𝚏𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚙𝚊𝚐𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚎𝚍.
𝚂𝚕𝚎𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚟𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚒𝚐𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚋𝚢 𝚊 𝚖𝚒𝚡𝚎𝚍 𝚐𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚙 𝚘𝚏 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚋𝚞𝚛𝚋𝚊𝚗 𝚗𝚎𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚋𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘𝚐𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚟𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚜𝚎.
𝙸𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚏 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚛𝚞𝚗 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚕𝚔 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚞𝚙 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢!
𝐏𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄: 𝐈 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 ’𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞’ 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐀𝐋𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐭)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love a good cosy read and
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘙𝘩𝘺𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 is such a fantastic one that I enjoyed immensely!
When Frida reluctantly attends her local Library’s Rhyme Time session, a scream is heard and a woman is found dead.
The question that is being asked is – did she fall to her death or was she pushed?
Frida, who has struggled with anxiety since giving birth and who has found herself not wanting to leave the house, finds herself amongst an unlikely group of people to try and find out what exactly happened that terrible day in the library.
I found this book so intriguing and couldn’t put it down. Penny has written such fantastic characters and I loved this eclectic bunch of amateur sleuths!
Frida, in particular, was so relatable. The way that her character was developed throughout the storyline was so rewarding and heartfelt.
While there is some laugh out loud moments with this quirky bunch, there are some deeper themes explored in this book such as anxiety, post-partum depression, anxiety and abortion rights.
I was also very intrigued with how Penny weaved some pieces of history into this book.
I believe that this is the first novel written for adults by the Author and I am hoping to read more from Penny in the future!
𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘙𝘩𝘺𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 is such a fantastic one that I enjoyed immensely!
When Frida reluctantly attends her local Library’s Rhyme Time session, a scream is heard and a woman is found dead.
The question that is being asked is – did she fall to her death or was she pushed?
Frida, who has struggled with anxiety since giving birth and who has found herself not wanting to leave the house, finds herself amongst an unlikely group of people to try and find out what exactly happened that terrible day in the library.
I found this book so intriguing and couldn’t put it down. Penny has written such fantastic characters and I loved this eclectic bunch of amateur sleuths!
Frida, in particular, was so relatable. The way that her character was developed throughout the storyline was so rewarding and heartfelt.
While there is some laugh out loud moments with this quirky bunch, there are some deeper themes explored in this book such as anxiety, post-partum depression, anxiety and abortion rights.
I was also very intrigued with how Penny weaved some pieces of history into this book.
I believe that this is the first novel written for adults by the Author and I am hoping to read more from Penny in the future!
March 8, 2026
Set in a Melbourne library this cosy murder mystery was a really great read that kept me guessing right until the end
When new mum Frida takes her son Finn to her local library for story time she thinks this is the perfect day out. Thankful for change in routine after being cooped up with Finn, getting out and about is a daunting but welcome change
But at the end of the session the calm and quiet in the library is replaced by a horrendous scream and the thud of a body having fallen from the top of the stairs and an young woman is found dead
As the investigation begins, there is only one question to be answered, did she jump or was she pushed?
Before Frida knows it, she is banding together with new unlikely friends to try and solve the mystery
Frida was so relatable and her character growth was wonderful to follow.
The story sensitively touches on important topics such as motherhood, abortion, anxiety and everyday life pressures while still balancing the mystery.
Thank you Summit books and Simon and Schuster for my gifted copy to review 🫶
When new mum Frida takes her son Finn to her local library for story time she thinks this is the perfect day out. Thankful for change in routine after being cooped up with Finn, getting out and about is a daunting but welcome change
But at the end of the session the calm and quiet in the library is replaced by a horrendous scream and the thud of a body having fallen from the top of the stairs and an young woman is found dead
As the investigation begins, there is only one question to be answered, did she jump or was she pushed?
Before Frida knows it, she is banding together with new unlikely friends to try and solve the mystery
Frida was so relatable and her character growth was wonderful to follow.
The story sensitively touches on important topics such as motherhood, abortion, anxiety and everyday life pressures while still balancing the mystery.
Thank you Summit books and Simon and Schuster for my gifted copy to review 🫶
February 28, 2026
I was hooked on What Rhymes with Murder? from the very first pages. This was such a clever, original cosy mystery and an absolute pleasure to read.
Set around a Baby Rhyme Time session at the local library, the story introduces us to Frida, an exhausted new mum who is anxious, sleep-deprived, and feeling a bit lost. When a scream turns an ordinary morning into a crime scene, Frida finds herself swept up in an unlikely investigation alongside a wonderfully quirky group of amateur sleuths.
I really enjoyed how well this book was put together. The pacing felt just right, the humour was spot on, and the mix of everyday life, friendship, motherhood, and mystery worked beautifully. The café chats and community feel added so much warmth and charm to the story.
And that twist — I genuinely didn’t see it coming. I didn’t guess the killer or the motive, which made the reveal especially satisfying and showed just how well crafted this mystery is.
A smart, funny, and thoroughly enjoyable cosy crime. I’ll definitely be reading more from Penny Tangey. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Set around a Baby Rhyme Time session at the local library, the story introduces us to Frida, an exhausted new mum who is anxious, sleep-deprived, and feeling a bit lost. When a scream turns an ordinary morning into a crime scene, Frida finds herself swept up in an unlikely investigation alongside a wonderfully quirky group of amateur sleuths.
I really enjoyed how well this book was put together. The pacing felt just right, the humour was spot on, and the mix of everyday life, friendship, motherhood, and mystery worked beautifully. The café chats and community feel added so much warmth and charm to the story.
And that twist — I genuinely didn’t see it coming. I didn’t guess the killer or the motive, which made the reveal especially satisfying and showed just how well crafted this mystery is.
A smart, funny, and thoroughly enjoyable cosy crime. I’ll definitely be reading more from Penny Tangey. ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
March 21, 2026
I didn't enjoy it as much as I'm not a mother of a baby. It felt like I was riding the post-natal depression wave with Frida and this story could have been cut in half if it wasn't for all the unnecessary self-doubt and negative self talk which really isn't the vibe I was going for when I wanted to escape real life. This might be a good read for mothers but not for me, personally.
April 3, 2026
3.5 stars.
Exhausted new mother Frida finds a sense of purpose at Baby Rhyme Time - until a scream and a thump turn the library into a crime scene. Drawn into the investigation with a group of unlikely sleuths, Frida follows the clues over coffee and gossip - without realising how close they are to danger.
Aww, this was such a fun cosy read - it brought back memories of my newborn days (some lovely, many exhausting!). It’s especially relatable for new mums, where baby routines can be both energy-draining and mind-numbing at the same time. No wonder Frida jumped at the chance to get involved in the mystery.
The characters were distinctive and entertaining. I loved how each of them was curious on their own before realising they were all sleuthing together. The case itself actually took a bit of a back seat for me - I found myself more invested in Frida’s day-to-day life and her interactions with her bub and the people around her, whether friends or suspects.
I’d recommend this if you’re a fan of cosy mysteries, especially one set in the familiar backdrop of Melbourne!
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
Exhausted new mother Frida finds a sense of purpose at Baby Rhyme Time - until a scream and a thump turn the library into a crime scene. Drawn into the investigation with a group of unlikely sleuths, Frida follows the clues over coffee and gossip - without realising how close they are to danger.
Aww, this was such a fun cosy read - it brought back memories of my newborn days (some lovely, many exhausting!). It’s especially relatable for new mums, where baby routines can be both energy-draining and mind-numbing at the same time. No wonder Frida jumped at the chance to get involved in the mystery.
The characters were distinctive and entertaining. I loved how each of them was curious on their own before realising they were all sleuthing together. The case itself actually took a bit of a back seat for me - I found myself more invested in Frida’s day-to-day life and her interactions with her bub and the people around her, whether friends or suspects.
I’d recommend this if you’re a fan of cosy mysteries, especially one set in the familiar backdrop of Melbourne!
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Australia for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
February 20, 2026
the premise of this book really intrigued me from the get go!! a cozy mystery based in melbourne, where this found family of neighbours investigate a murder of a woman at their local library because they have nothing better to do.
we follow Frida, a mother to six month old Finn. she’s suffering from postpartum depression & after a lot of convincing from her husband, she attends baby rhyme time at her local library. here she witnesses a crime scene - the police suspect it was a homicide.
there was also important discussions about the society’s conflicting views on abortion throughout the book. but unfortunately the plot fell a little flat for me. Frida, had quite a messy mind & at times it was difficult following her train of thought. the plot had a lot, but also not enough? and it just seemed like it wasn’t moving forwards.
the aspect i liked most about what rhymes with murder? was the found family aspect — it was honestly cute seeing the dynamic group of neighbours come together to solve this mystery!
thank you S&S for this arc!!🫶🏻
April 3, 2026
Thought I would rate it 4 but I really didn’t anticipate the ending so ended up being 4.5 🌟.
A very enjoyable and entertaining cozy mystery especially for a new mother. While some people read to escape reality, for me it can be really refreshing to see some of my life reflected in the pages of a book.
As a new mother, I certainly saw myself in Frida; her anxiety to leave the house with a baby, the intrusive thoughts when carrying her baby, the sleepless nights, trying to be present, guilty for using the phone in front the baby, the miscarriage all resonated with me. And the cherry on top is that it’s set in Melbourne,so I have visited some of the mentioned locations. However, sometimes the constant mention of Finn grizzling, the grizzling escalating did get a little repetitive, but not excessively.
I would recommend this book to you if you want to read a well rounded cozy mystery book with amateur detectives gossiping and theorising.
A very enjoyable and entertaining cozy mystery especially for a new mother. While some people read to escape reality, for me it can be really refreshing to see some of my life reflected in the pages of a book.
As a new mother, I certainly saw myself in Frida; her anxiety to leave the house with a baby, the intrusive thoughts when carrying her baby, the sleepless nights, trying to be present, guilty for using the phone in front the baby, the miscarriage all resonated with me. And the cherry on top is that it’s set in Melbourne,so I have visited some of the mentioned locations. However, sometimes the constant mention of Finn grizzling, the grizzling escalating did get a little repetitive, but not excessively.
I would recommend this book to you if you want to read a well rounded cozy mystery book with amateur detectives gossiping and theorising.
March 13, 2026
I always enjoy a cosy crime read and What Rhymes with Murder? was an enjoyable addition to the genre. It kept me guessing right up to the end!
I enjoyed Frida’s character, she was quirky and relatable and I loved how her character and confidence grew as she surrounded herself with new friends.
I also appreciated the honest portrayal of motherhood and relationships. It doesn’t sugar coat the hard moments but uses humour and heart to draw you in as a reader. I could definitely relate to the amount of caffeine the characters consume too 😂
The murder aspect was also really well done. I was guessing left right and centre and never once was I right!
⚠️ Please note that this novel does cover some sensitive topics such as abortion, pregnancy loss and postnatal anxiety.
Thank you to Summit Books and Simon and Schuster for a copy to review 💕
I enjoyed Frida’s character, she was quirky and relatable and I loved how her character and confidence grew as she surrounded herself with new friends.
I also appreciated the honest portrayal of motherhood and relationships. It doesn’t sugar coat the hard moments but uses humour and heart to draw you in as a reader. I could definitely relate to the amount of caffeine the characters consume too 😂
The murder aspect was also really well done. I was guessing left right and centre and never once was I right!
⚠️ Please note that this novel does cover some sensitive topics such as abortion, pregnancy loss and postnatal anxiety.
Thank you to Summit Books and Simon and Schuster for a copy to review 💕
March 13, 2026
What Rhymes with Murder? is a cosy crime novel with a very relatable twist - the amateur detective is an exhausted new mum trying to figure out her life after having a baby.
We really enjoyed this mystery, and the way it explored issues like adjusting to life after a baby, and brought back our memories of rhyme time and how hard it was to get out of the house!
The book blends humour, mystery and sharp observations about motherhood. Frida's journey of slowly rediscovering herself after becoming a parent adds a lovely emotional layer to the mystery. There’s also plenty of cosy crime fun: quirky characters, gossip sessions over coffee and the satisfaction of watching the clues slowly come together.
Thanks a bunch to Fiona for chatting with us on our podcast Between The Lines. The episode (#70) is out May 25, and you can listen here: https://www.betweenthelinesaustralia....
We really enjoyed this mystery, and the way it explored issues like adjusting to life after a baby, and brought back our memories of rhyme time and how hard it was to get out of the house!
The book blends humour, mystery and sharp observations about motherhood. Frida's journey of slowly rediscovering herself after becoming a parent adds a lovely emotional layer to the mystery. There’s also plenty of cosy crime fun: quirky characters, gossip sessions over coffee and the satisfaction of watching the clues slowly come together.
Thanks a bunch to Fiona for chatting with us on our podcast Between The Lines. The episode (#70) is out May 25, and you can listen here: https://www.betweenthelinesaustralia....
January 26, 2026
3 1/2 stars
Frida, the mother of a six month old boy Finn, decides to attend the local library’s Baby Rhyme Time in an effort to get out of the house and among other people. Little does Frida know, her life will be turned upside down, when a woman at the library dies in suspicious circumstances, just metres away from the group of parents and babies.
The death of the woman haunts Frieda and she finds herself drawn to Josh, another parent who was also attending Rhyme Time on the day. Together, Josh and Frida reflect on the events that occurred, usually over coffee in the nearby cafe. Over time, their interest in the case develops from cafe chit-chat to an active undercover investigation, meeting a variety of interesting characters along the way.
This story sways between a humorous adventure of new parents on the hunt to solve a crime, with more serious underlying themes such as the effects of living with anxiety and the conflict abortion creates in society. The lightness of Josh and Frida’s friendship balances the heavier underlying themes.
Thanks to Better Reading for providing me with a preview copy of this book.
Frida, the mother of a six month old boy Finn, decides to attend the local library’s Baby Rhyme Time in an effort to get out of the house and among other people. Little does Frida know, her life will be turned upside down, when a woman at the library dies in suspicious circumstances, just metres away from the group of parents and babies.
The death of the woman haunts Frieda and she finds herself drawn to Josh, another parent who was also attending Rhyme Time on the day. Together, Josh and Frida reflect on the events that occurred, usually over coffee in the nearby cafe. Over time, their interest in the case develops from cafe chit-chat to an active undercover investigation, meeting a variety of interesting characters along the way.
This story sways between a humorous adventure of new parents on the hunt to solve a crime, with more serious underlying themes such as the effects of living with anxiety and the conflict abortion creates in society. The lightness of Josh and Frida’s friendship balances the heavier underlying themes.
Thanks to Better Reading for providing me with a preview copy of this book.
April 13, 2026
I was so excited to dive into this murder mystery after hearing so much about it although it wasn't quite what I was hoping for in a mystery read.
I found the characters to be uninteresting with the plot to get very slow and taking forever to get to the crux of the story- uncovering why the woman was murdered.
A miss for me this time.
Thankyou to Net galley and Simon and Schuster for an arc of this book.
I found the characters to be uninteresting with the plot to get very slow and taking forever to get to the crux of the story- uncovering why the woman was murdered.
A miss for me this time.
Thankyou to Net galley and Simon and Schuster for an arc of this book.
March 21, 2026
I'm sorry to say, I found this one a bit boring and I just didn't click with Frida as a main character. I found some of the secondary characters more interesting than her.
I think the pace of the novel was slow, and I struggled to get through it. I definitely didn't find any of it particularly tunny.
I think the pace of the novel was slow, and I struggled to get through it. I definitely didn't find any of it particularly tunny.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you to netgalley and the publishers for providing me with this ARC of the novel.
i was actually so excited to pick this up, because it sounded so good. a cute, cozy little mystery set in melbourne based around this found family of a bunch of neighbours with nothing better to do but to investigate this murder, with themes and conversation on pregnancy and abortion throughout. but honestly, this fell flat.
for starters, the plot was just SO boring. we spend the entire book tiptoeing around this genuinely interesting premise of a woman dying at the library, meanwhile the main character sits here doing fuck all, accusing absolutely everyone and living the same day over and over. "i'm a mother, but i'm kinda anxious. my husband's too busy installing solar panels, so i better go for a walk and find something to do! oh hey, here's josh, the guy who also witnessed the murder! let me solve it with him!" over, and over, AND OVER AGAIN.
and after dragging out the plot THE ENTIRE TIME and nothing happening at all, we're then given a quick, cheap ending. i think we get maybe two whole pages of detail on what actually occurred, after 304 pages of filler. SO anti-climactic just for two rushed chapters at the end, especially given how interesting the whole premise was.
i also found the characters to be so forgettable. apart from the whole found family aspect, which was honestly quite cute and done in a smart way to bring them together, everyone was just so boring and basic. the three sisters completely came out of the blue, and just ended up blending into one. there was no individuality in the characters, nothing special to define them. literally just words on paper. they were cute as a whole, but did i actually know who anyone was?? no.
the only part which kept this book CLINGING to a 3 stars was the discussion about childbirth and the themes of abortion. i found it really interesting to be learning about the main character's anxiety and post-partum depression, and how she begins to cope with this. it was super interesting to see how being a mother has changed her life, both for the worse and the better.
i also really enjoyed how the author linked the plot with the abortion clinic in a non-tacky way, handling the topic really delicately but not as something taboo to be ignored. the whole pregnancy aspect as a whole was really well done, and i applaud the writing and detail on that aspect. however, it just couldn't save this book for me.
overall, i really enjoyed the main themes and messages of pregnancy that was intertwined into this story and made for a genuinely interesting novel, however the actual plot just didn't do it for me. i would be keen to read more by penny tangey in a more literary or contemporary fiction, as i felt we were trying to do too much here and it was poorly executed.
i was actually so excited to pick this up, because it sounded so good. a cute, cozy little mystery set in melbourne based around this found family of a bunch of neighbours with nothing better to do but to investigate this murder, with themes and conversation on pregnancy and abortion throughout. but honestly, this fell flat.
for starters, the plot was just SO boring. we spend the entire book tiptoeing around this genuinely interesting premise of a woman dying at the library, meanwhile the main character sits here doing fuck all, accusing absolutely everyone and living the same day over and over. "i'm a mother, but i'm kinda anxious. my husband's too busy installing solar panels, so i better go for a walk and find something to do! oh hey, here's josh, the guy who also witnessed the murder! let me solve it with him!" over, and over, AND OVER AGAIN.
and after dragging out the plot THE ENTIRE TIME and nothing happening at all, we're then given a quick, cheap ending. i think we get maybe two whole pages of detail on what actually occurred, after 304 pages of filler. SO anti-climactic just for two rushed chapters at the end, especially given how interesting the whole premise was.
i also found the characters to be so forgettable. apart from the whole found family aspect, which was honestly quite cute and done in a smart way to bring them together, everyone was just so boring and basic. the three sisters completely came out of the blue, and just ended up blending into one. there was no individuality in the characters, nothing special to define them. literally just words on paper. they were cute as a whole, but did i actually know who anyone was?? no.
the only part which kept this book CLINGING to a 3 stars was the discussion about childbirth and the themes of abortion. i found it really interesting to be learning about the main character's anxiety and post-partum depression, and how she begins to cope with this. it was super interesting to see how being a mother has changed her life, both for the worse and the better.
i also really enjoyed how the author linked the plot with the abortion clinic in a non-tacky way, handling the topic really delicately but not as something taboo to be ignored. the whole pregnancy aspect as a whole was really well done, and i applaud the writing and detail on that aspect. however, it just couldn't save this book for me.
overall, i really enjoyed the main themes and messages of pregnancy that was intertwined into this story and made for a genuinely interesting novel, however the actual plot just didn't do it for me. i would be keen to read more by penny tangey in a more literary or contemporary fiction, as i felt we were trying to do too much here and it was poorly executed.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Motherhood, Murder and Magics
Thank you so much to Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the early copy of this fab book!
I really thought that this was just going to be a little murder mystery that took place while everyone was held in the library gathering information to solve the crime in a short amount of time. And yes, it was a murder mystery where we were gathering information to solve a murder but it was SO much more!
This book touched on so many different topics- political debate, pregnancy loss, complex relationships, SAH fathers, working from home parents, relationship changes after adding a baby, mental load, inequalities between default and working parents, strained relationships but most importantly to me, the struggle of managing postpartum anxiety, exhaustion, loneliness and mental health after having a baby. You would think that all of this would make a book too busy but it was written so smoothly and seamlessly that it flowed so perfectly. I loved that this lonely mum sitting at home, afraid to walk down the stairs becomes a rather nervous vigilante and while doing so finds where she belongs amongst a new group of loving, supportive friends. On top of all of this, it’s also really funny!
I also had a sweet attachment to the book as my parents were married in the Fitzroy Gardens and my Dad took me to the Fairy Tree and miniature Tudor Village the day my little sister was born. It just felt almost nostalgic in a way and I loved that I had this connection.
I really enjoyed What Rhymes With Murder?. It had me in all my feels, had me guessing and was not predictable! I’m generally really good at guessing but I did not see this ending coming. Congratulations Penny Tangey on your incredible and very first adult book!
Thank you so much to Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the early copy of this fab book!
I really thought that this was just going to be a little murder mystery that took place while everyone was held in the library gathering information to solve the crime in a short amount of time. And yes, it was a murder mystery where we were gathering information to solve a murder but it was SO much more!
This book touched on so many different topics- political debate, pregnancy loss, complex relationships, SAH fathers, working from home parents, relationship changes after adding a baby, mental load, inequalities between default and working parents, strained relationships but most importantly to me, the struggle of managing postpartum anxiety, exhaustion, loneliness and mental health after having a baby. You would think that all of this would make a book too busy but it was written so smoothly and seamlessly that it flowed so perfectly. I loved that this lonely mum sitting at home, afraid to walk down the stairs becomes a rather nervous vigilante and while doing so finds where she belongs amongst a new group of loving, supportive friends. On top of all of this, it’s also really funny!
I also had a sweet attachment to the book as my parents were married in the Fitzroy Gardens and my Dad took me to the Fairy Tree and miniature Tudor Village the day my little sister was born. It just felt almost nostalgic in a way and I loved that I had this connection.
I really enjoyed What Rhymes With Murder?. It had me in all my feels, had me guessing and was not predictable! I’m generally really good at guessing but I did not see this ending coming. Congratulations Penny Tangey on your incredible and very first adult book!
March 11, 2026
What Rhymes with Murder? by Penny Tangey
I don't remember who recommended What Rhymes with Murder to be, but it was someone whose book taste I trust, probably someone on Instagram. But then the book blurb really talks it up, claiming "Only Murders in the Building meets The Thursday Murder Club in this hilarious new take on cosy crime." which clearly had me hitting the pre-order button.
Frida is a typical new Mum, anxious, apartment-bound and sleep-deprived, so when Frida's therapist encourages her to leave her East Melbourne apartment each day, she decides to go to her local library to take Finn to Baby Rhyme Time. At the end of class, there is a scream and a thud, and the library becomes a crime scene.
The big question is, did she fall, or was she pushed?
Frida and an unlikely, quirky group of amateur sleuths start meeting at the local café to gossip, drink coffee, and investigate the murder.
This book was funny and light, but it also touched on everyday life, issues around motherhood, and community, as well as some heavier topics. I spotted a couple of clues early on, and while I guessed the killer before the big reveal, I still enjoyed the twisty, fast-paced ride to the end.
What Rhymes with Murder? by Penny Tangey was released on the 24 of Feb, so if you like a cosy mystery, like those by Kate Solly (ie, warm-hearted, community-based, with mums, prams and a lot of coffee) or clever, quirky books like Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne, then I think you'll like this one. I did. Thumbs up.
Bodycount = 1.
#designnerd #booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf #WhatRhymeswithMurder? @pennytangey @simonandschuster #simonandschuster
I don't remember who recommended What Rhymes with Murder to be, but it was someone whose book taste I trust, probably someone on Instagram. But then the book blurb really talks it up, claiming "Only Murders in the Building meets The Thursday Murder Club in this hilarious new take on cosy crime." which clearly had me hitting the pre-order button.
Frida is a typical new Mum, anxious, apartment-bound and sleep-deprived, so when Frida's therapist encourages her to leave her East Melbourne apartment each day, she decides to go to her local library to take Finn to Baby Rhyme Time. At the end of class, there is a scream and a thud, and the library becomes a crime scene.
The big question is, did she fall, or was she pushed?
Frida and an unlikely, quirky group of amateur sleuths start meeting at the local café to gossip, drink coffee, and investigate the murder.
This book was funny and light, but it also touched on everyday life, issues around motherhood, and community, as well as some heavier topics. I spotted a couple of clues early on, and while I guessed the killer before the big reveal, I still enjoyed the twisty, fast-paced ride to the end.
What Rhymes with Murder? by Penny Tangey was released on the 24 of Feb, so if you like a cosy mystery, like those by Kate Solly (ie, warm-hearted, community-based, with mums, prams and a lot of coffee) or clever, quirky books like Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne, then I think you'll like this one. I did. Thumbs up.
Bodycount = 1.
#designnerd #booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf #WhatRhymeswithMurder? @pennytangey @simonandschuster #simonandschuster
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I could absolutely see this being turned into a comedy/drama series for the ABC in Australia. What a fun, cozy, murder mystery.
Since going on maternity leave, Frida’s been experiencing some new-parent anxieties, and now her new KPI is keeping her baby alive! Things aren’t helped when an incident occurs during her local library’s Rhyme Time session. A woman is found dead. Was it an accident or murder? Frida and her group of unlikely sleuths are on the case.
Whether you’re a new parent, about to be a parent, or have been a parent, this story is for you. I found it hilarious. I also loved the setting in Melbourne, as that’s my home town, so it was very nostalgic and I had a good laugh about the coffee orders. The character of Frida is so relatable. My babies are teenagers now, but this took me right back to Rhyme times, mothers groups and that constant parental guilt “am I doing this right?!” Throw in a very good whodunnit and it makes for a wonderfully fun read with heart.
This isn’t a fast paced mystery and it’s not trying to be. There are other themes of pregnancy loss and abortion rights that are also a focus but aren’t too heavy. I think the front cover definitely fits that Only Murders in The Building and Thursday Murder Club vibe, which was what drew me to the book initially.
This is Penny Tangey’s first adult novel and I look forward to more! Thank you to @netgalley and @simonschusterau for the advanced copy. Loved it!
Since going on maternity leave, Frida’s been experiencing some new-parent anxieties, and now her new KPI is keeping her baby alive! Things aren’t helped when an incident occurs during her local library’s Rhyme Time session. A woman is found dead. Was it an accident or murder? Frida and her group of unlikely sleuths are on the case.
Whether you’re a new parent, about to be a parent, or have been a parent, this story is for you. I found it hilarious. I also loved the setting in Melbourne, as that’s my home town, so it was very nostalgic and I had a good laugh about the coffee orders. The character of Frida is so relatable. My babies are teenagers now, but this took me right back to Rhyme times, mothers groups and that constant parental guilt “am I doing this right?!” Throw in a very good whodunnit and it makes for a wonderfully fun read with heart.
This isn’t a fast paced mystery and it’s not trying to be. There are other themes of pregnancy loss and abortion rights that are also a focus but aren’t too heavy. I think the front cover definitely fits that Only Murders in The Building and Thursday Murder Club vibe, which was what drew me to the book initially.
This is Penny Tangey’s first adult novel and I look forward to more! Thank you to @netgalley and @simonschusterau for the advanced copy. Loved it!
December 11, 2025
Frida is a new mum and like many new mums she is plagued with guilt for not doing everything right; not appreciating her time with her baby enough; for being on her phone; for wishing she could be at work; wishing she didn't feel like such a burden because of the sudden, overwhelming anxiety that hit her as soon as she gave birth. Encouraged by her husband and her therapist, Frida makes a goal of leaving the house everyday and today is the first chance she has had to go to Baby Rhyme Time at her local East Melbourne library. What could go wrong? How about a murder?
Frida is shocked, of course, but she is also curious. Was it an accident? Was it murder? Could someone from rhyme time be involved? There are tensions going on in the firmly middle-class suburb that Frida had not been aware of. With new friends and a new interest Frida finds herself stepping out from anxiety for the first time since her baby was born, but is she stepping right into the line of danger? After all, someone has a murder to cover up!
It was great to read a book set in Melbourne, and this cosy crime was right up my alley. From meet ups in the local cafe, to spying on suspects in the Fitzroy gardens this group of concerned citizens not only set out to solve a crime but also take us on a tour of Melbourne sights while the do it! It is a super fun read and I look forward to seeing what scrapes Frida and her new friends get into next.
Frida is shocked, of course, but she is also curious. Was it an accident? Was it murder? Could someone from rhyme time be involved? There are tensions going on in the firmly middle-class suburb that Frida had not been aware of. With new friends and a new interest Frida finds herself stepping out from anxiety for the first time since her baby was born, but is she stepping right into the line of danger? After all, someone has a murder to cover up!
It was great to read a book set in Melbourne, and this cosy crime was right up my alley. From meet ups in the local cafe, to spying on suspects in the Fitzroy gardens this group of concerned citizens not only set out to solve a crime but also take us on a tour of Melbourne sights while the do it! It is a super fun read and I look forward to seeing what scrapes Frida and her new friends get into next.
April 10, 2026
3 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibe check: Cosy Crime, Mums Solving Mysteries
full review ⬇️
I recently discovered my love of cosy crime and you can bet I’ll pick up any book that jumps into that genre including What Rhymes With Murder?
The title itself had me wondering what I could be in for.. before I realised it related to (spoiler alert..!) baby rhyme time at the library. Sadly that was the start of where this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
This story leans heavily into character building at the start and while the ‘murder’ happens quite soon into the book, it really then takes time to establish the setting, relationships and dynamics before the investigation properly kicks in. While I can appreciate the foundation, it did feel like it took quite a while to get to the actual solving of the murder mystery and then the ending felt a little rushed after such a build up.
The story also weaves in themes around abortion rights, which adds a more serious and topical layer to what is otherwise a cosy style mystery. It definitely gives the book more depth, though at times it shifted the tone away from what I typically expect in this genre.
Overall, it’s a thoughtful take on cosy crime and I enjoyed the snippets of humour and relatable mum content but the actual crime and themes just didn’t quite land for me.
A gentle trigger warning also for anyone impacted by child loss ♥️
Vibe check: Cosy Crime, Mums Solving Mysteries
full review ⬇️
I recently discovered my love of cosy crime and you can bet I’ll pick up any book that jumps into that genre including What Rhymes With Murder?
The title itself had me wondering what I could be in for.. before I realised it related to (spoiler alert..!) baby rhyme time at the library. Sadly that was the start of where this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
This story leans heavily into character building at the start and while the ‘murder’ happens quite soon into the book, it really then takes time to establish the setting, relationships and dynamics before the investigation properly kicks in. While I can appreciate the foundation, it did feel like it took quite a while to get to the actual solving of the murder mystery and then the ending felt a little rushed after such a build up.
The story also weaves in themes around abortion rights, which adds a more serious and topical layer to what is otherwise a cosy style mystery. It definitely gives the book more depth, though at times it shifted the tone away from what I typically expect in this genre.
Overall, it’s a thoughtful take on cosy crime and I enjoyed the snippets of humour and relatable mum content but the actual crime and themes just didn’t quite land for me.
A gentle trigger warning also for anyone impacted by child loss ♥️
January 28, 2026
Murder and mystery books always call out to me and I am so glad that I picked this up at the start of the year. This was such a fun, cozy read. The story follows Frida, an exhausted new mother who stumbles into a murder mystery after a baby rhyme session at the local library in East Melbourne.
The book starts off slowly by gradually building the mystery around the murder at the library. As the story moves forward, I really enjoyed how the author brings together a group of distinct personalities to help solve the case.
What I loved most was how the book balances humour and mystery with very real themes of motherhood, exhaustion and finding a sense of purpose again. The group of unlikely parents/godparents, plenty of cafe chats and Frida’s quiet determination made this feel comforting, funny and surprisingly thoughtful. A cozy crime with a lot of caffeine and Melbourne explorations.
After reading this book, I am definitely going to try a Magic at a cafe in Melbourne!
The ending was a little unsatisfactory for me, as I ended up with more questions than I started with. That said, the author does manage to keep the mystery of the murderer intact, even though some readers may be able to predict it around the middle of the book.
The book starts off slowly by gradually building the mystery around the murder at the library. As the story moves forward, I really enjoyed how the author brings together a group of distinct personalities to help solve the case.
What I loved most was how the book balances humour and mystery with very real themes of motherhood, exhaustion and finding a sense of purpose again. The group of unlikely parents/godparents, plenty of cafe chats and Frida’s quiet determination made this feel comforting, funny and surprisingly thoughtful. A cozy crime with a lot of caffeine and Melbourne explorations.
After reading this book, I am definitely going to try a Magic at a cafe in Melbourne!
The ending was a little unsatisfactory for me, as I ended up with more questions than I started with. That said, the author does manage to keep the mystery of the murderer intact, even though some readers may be able to predict it around the middle of the book.
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed this novel mainly for its “cosiness” and the way it weaved in serious social/historical issues with the day to day minutiae of East Melbourne residents and their assorted lives. Having spent my student days in West Melbourne and Parkville, I could see some place in my minds eye and felt a wave of nostalgia (sigh).
Frida, a young mum battling some mental health issues, finds her confidence and self esteem improve as her social interactions increase. Unfortunately her first outing at Baby Rhyme Time coincides with the murder in the library, which, while shocking, is more a catalyst for the Baby Rhyme time attendees and some others to have cosy catch up coffees and the odd night time outing in pursuit of leads.
The actual unveiling of the “murderer” is quite intense and interesting ….there are no crazy car chases or people leaping over fences….the main characters after all have prams and baby carriers to contend with.
I look forward to another instalment to enjoy while sipping a ‘magic’, if such a thing can be found in my neck of the woods. 😉 Thanks to Better Reading for the preview copy.
Frida, a young mum battling some mental health issues, finds her confidence and self esteem improve as her social interactions increase. Unfortunately her first outing at Baby Rhyme Time coincides with the murder in the library, which, while shocking, is more a catalyst for the Baby Rhyme time attendees and some others to have cosy catch up coffees and the odd night time outing in pursuit of leads.
The actual unveiling of the “murderer” is quite intense and interesting ….there are no crazy car chases or people leaping over fences….the main characters after all have prams and baby carriers to contend with.
I look forward to another instalment to enjoy while sipping a ‘magic’, if such a thing can be found in my neck of the woods. 😉 Thanks to Better Reading for the preview copy.
Review of advance copy
Frida is a new mum to 6 month old Finn. She suffers from anxiety and Postpartum depression. Her partner Ben encourages her to join a group and get out of the house to be amongst other people. He is supportive and he shows her a flyer for Baby Rhyme Time at the local library. On their first day at the library a woman dies in suspicious circumstances, just outside where Baby Rhyme Time is held.
Frida befriends, a new parent Josh at Baby Rhyme Time and together they reflect on the events that occurred and often meet at the local coffee shop to discuss. Their interest in the case develops and they start investigating different people from the library. They also become friends with the local neighbours who also want to investigate the murder.
The adventure begins with a hunt to solve the crime, and not knowing who they can trust. This novel talks about the conflicts of abortion in society. I found the plot mediocre and felt it wasn't moving forward. I think there was too much in the plot but not really getting anywhere. I needed more!!
Thank you to Better Reading for the chance to preview.
Frida befriends, a new parent Josh at Baby Rhyme Time and together they reflect on the events that occurred and often meet at the local coffee shop to discuss. Their interest in the case develops and they start investigating different people from the library. They also become friends with the local neighbours who also want to investigate the murder.
The adventure begins with a hunt to solve the crime, and not knowing who they can trust. This novel talks about the conflicts of abortion in society. I found the plot mediocre and felt it wasn't moving forward. I think there was too much in the plot but not really getting anywhere. I needed more!!
Thank you to Better Reading for the chance to preview.
March 10, 2026
I found this book so hard to work out what I wanted to rate it...
on one side I loved reading about the struggles of motherhood and the fears it can bring...
while I was fine with my first, my second born brought all these fears and worries to my brain for no reason.
also the loneliess she felt being at home.
it was fantastic to read someone else dealing with this... let's face it. motherhood can be hard...
I loved the idea of a group of new friends end up teaming up to work out a murder. (what a way to bond)
This book also discusses hard subjects such as abortion. I like the fact that didn't shy away from this. while it can still be a touche subject (its 2026 guys!!) I feel like some people depending on what side they're on will have a hard time with this book.
also i like who ended up being the "killer". while I thought he was abit shifty and it seemed weird how he was overly friendly. I didn't actually pick it was him
the main thing I wasn't the biggest fan of was the whole climate change, political side of things. I read books to escape and I don't really need a reminder of how shit the world can be.
while some parts seemed a bit slow overall it was an interest in read
on one side I loved reading about the struggles of motherhood and the fears it can bring...
while I was fine with my first, my second born brought all these fears and worries to my brain for no reason.
also the loneliess she felt being at home.
it was fantastic to read someone else dealing with this... let's face it. motherhood can be hard...
I loved the idea of a group of new friends end up teaming up to work out a murder. (what a way to bond)
This book also discusses hard subjects such as abortion. I like the fact that didn't shy away from this. while it can still be a touche subject (its 2026 guys!!) I feel like some people depending on what side they're on will have a hard time with this book.
also i like who ended up being the "killer". while I thought he was abit shifty and it seemed weird how he was overly friendly. I didn't actually pick it was him
the main thing I wasn't the biggest fan of was the whole climate change, political side of things. I read books to escape and I don't really need a reminder of how shit the world can be.
while some parts seemed a bit slow overall it was an interest in read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
When nervous new mother Frida takes the first tentative steps out of her house to go to a Rhyme Time session at the local library with her baby, she never imagines they’d witness a murder. Then, when a pram mix-up, a threatening note, and run-ins with others from that terrible day become more than just a coincidence, she joins forces with another new parent from the library to see if they can track down a killer.
While it might deal with dark subjects, this novel is actually a refreshing, cosy read. Frida and her fears as a new mother are relatable, the situations she gets into are more high jinks than horror, and the murder team that forms to solve the crime are entertaining characters you just want to spend more time with. The reveal of who committed the crime was something I didn’t see happening until it was happening, which is always a good thing when reading whodunits. Highly recommended for fans of lighthearted crime fiction that also deals with heavier topics related to motherhood with a respectful hand.
While it might deal with dark subjects, this novel is actually a refreshing, cosy read. Frida and her fears as a new mother are relatable, the situations she gets into are more high jinks than horror, and the murder team that forms to solve the crime are entertaining characters you just want to spend more time with. The reveal of who committed the crime was something I didn’t see happening until it was happening, which is always a good thing when reading whodunits. Highly recommended for fans of lighthearted crime fiction that also deals with heavier topics related to motherhood with a respectful hand.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Penny Tangey’s novel is an absolute delight. Am I allowed to say that when it’s a book about murder? Oh yes indeed! The group of very quirky neighbourhood sleuths that she has produced is at times laugh-out-loud funny, but most of all totally believable.
It all starts with Baby Rhyme Time at the local library. We’re introduced to Frida & baby Finn, and the cast of characters who become the backdrop to this intriguing little murder mystery. What starts as curiosity about the victim and speculation about what may have happened, spirals into an intrepid group of locals who end up as the most unlikely of detectives.
The sights and sounds of East Melbourne are brought to life alongside these characters, which adds another layer of delight. There are also some very real social issues cleverly woven into the story to ground the humour that seeps through.
Who can be trusted? What do these neighbours uncover? You’ll just have to read the book to find out. And read it you must!
It all starts with Baby Rhyme Time at the local library. We’re introduced to Frida & baby Finn, and the cast of characters who become the backdrop to this intriguing little murder mystery. What starts as curiosity about the victim and speculation about what may have happened, spirals into an intrepid group of locals who end up as the most unlikely of detectives.
The sights and sounds of East Melbourne are brought to life alongside these characters, which adds another layer of delight. There are also some very real social issues cleverly woven into the story to ground the humour that seeps through.
Who can be trusted? What do these neighbours uncover? You’ll just have to read the book to find out. And read it you must!
February 21, 2026
What Rhymes with Murder is a cosy murder mystery with a genuinely heartfelt centre. Frida is a mother still finding her way after postnatal depression when she is unexpectedly mixed up with a murder — and is drawn into solving it.
I really appreciated how honestly motherhood was written here. Frida’s constant feeling that she’s doing everything wrong, while still trying her absolute best, felt very real — but the tone remains hopeful rather than heavy. It’s this balance that makes her such a likeable and easy protagonist to root for.
I also liked the way the investigative group comes together. It happens naturally, creating a sense of community that supports Frida’s personal progress as much as the mystery itself.
The plot is relatively simple, but it works well within the cosy setting and makes for a quick, enjoyable read.
Perfect if you’re looking for a comforting mystery with warmth at its core.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really appreciated how honestly motherhood was written here. Frida’s constant feeling that she’s doing everything wrong, while still trying her absolute best, felt very real — but the tone remains hopeful rather than heavy. It’s this balance that makes her such a likeable and easy protagonist to root for.
I also liked the way the investigative group comes together. It happens naturally, creating a sense of community that supports Frida’s personal progress as much as the mystery itself.
The plot is relatively simple, but it works well within the cosy setting and makes for a quick, enjoyable read.
Perfect if you’re looking for a comforting mystery with warmth at its core.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
We follow Frida, a new mum who is struggling with the anxieties of raising a little human, and a cast of characters that she meets at the local library's Baby Rhyme Time. But, what happened this particular day will bring them together in a way they never would have imagined when someone falls from a mezzanine level. Was it an accident? Or was it murder?
Throughout the story we watch Frida, and her new friends, put their heads together to try to figure out exactly what happened. She grows so much personally and overcomes some of her fears since having her son. I was so happy for her in the end.
As for the twist... I actually didn't see it coming! But I felt the last 2 chapters wrapped it all up so fast that it left me feeling like I wanted a little more drama and fleshed out information.
Overall I would recommend this to anyone who wants a fun little Aussie "whodunit".
** Thank you Better Reading for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Throughout the story we watch Frida, and her new friends, put their heads together to try to figure out exactly what happened. She grows so much personally and overcomes some of her fears since having her son. I was so happy for her in the end.
As for the twist... I actually didn't see it coming! But I felt the last 2 chapters wrapped it all up so fast that it left me feeling like I wanted a little more drama and fleshed out information.
Overall I would recommend this to anyone who wants a fun little Aussie "whodunit".
** Thank you Better Reading for an ARC in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2026
I love a good cosy mystery, and if it is set in the familiar streets of Melbourne, then all the better.
I am already a fan of Penny Tangey from her amazing books with children, so I was excited to read her first book for adults.... and I was definitely not disappointed.
Penny brings all her heart and warmth that she infuses into her writing for children into this fun new mystery.
Of course, I was always going to be be hooked by the library setting (and very much enjoyed visiting the library in question for the launch of this book a few weeks ago), but beneath the fun, cosy mystery there are more serious themes of anxiety, postpartum depression, and freedom of choice for women when it comes to reproductive rights.
I highly recommend this cosy mystery set in East Melbourne, and I can't wait for more adventures with Frida and her fellow sleuths.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster Australia for the review copy of this book
I am already a fan of Penny Tangey from her amazing books with children, so I was excited to read her first book for adults.... and I was definitely not disappointed.
Penny brings all her heart and warmth that she infuses into her writing for children into this fun new mystery.
Of course, I was always going to be be hooked by the library setting (and very much enjoyed visiting the library in question for the launch of this book a few weeks ago), but beneath the fun, cosy mystery there are more serious themes of anxiety, postpartum depression, and freedom of choice for women when it comes to reproductive rights.
I highly recommend this cosy mystery set in East Melbourne, and I can't wait for more adventures with Frida and her fellow sleuths.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster Australia for the review copy of this book
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