Click

How does Click connect to Sarah Bailey's previous work, and do I need to read anything before starting this book?

Click is the second novel featuring journalist Oli Groves, following on from The Housemate published in 2021. Whilst this is a continuation of Oli's character, each book in the series is designed to work as a standalone thriller with its own self-contained mystery, so readers can jump in without having read the earlier instalment. Bailey is also known for her award-winning Gemma Woodstock police procedural series, which is entirely separate from the Oli Groves books and features different characters and settings.

What makes Sarah Bailey's approach to crime fiction distinctive compared to other Australian crime writers?

Bailey brings a unique insider perspective to her crime narratives, drawing on her extensive career in advertising and communications to craft stories that examine how media, technology, and public perception intersect with criminal investigations. Her dual focus on both a journalist protagonist and police detective allows her to explore how crime stories are simultaneously investigated and reported, revealing the tensions and ethical complexities that arise when the news cycle and justice system collide. This contemporary lens on the mechanics of modern media makes her work particularly relevant to our digitally saturated age.

What themes and social issues does Click explore beyond the central murder investigation?

The novel delves into the performative nature of crime in the digital age, examining how killers and criminals exploit social media and online platforms for attention and control. Bailey also explores the pressures faced by women working in male-dominated fields, particularly through her dual female protagonists navigating journalism and policing. The book interrogates broader questions about obsession, institutional corruption, and what it takes to survive in high-stakes professional environments where personal and professional boundaries constantly blur.

How does the structure of having two female protagonists enhance the storytelling in Click?

The parallel narratives of journalist Oli Groves and detective Penelope Kibbs create a multifaceted view of the same crisis, allowing readers to see both the public-facing media narrative and the behind-the-scenes investigative work simultaneously. This structure highlights the inherent tensions between the need for transparency in journalism and the requirement for discretion in police work, whilst both women face similar challenges of proving themselves in their respective fields. Their converging paths create additional layers of suspense as readers understand more than either character individually knows, building tension about when and how their investigations will intersect.

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