Old Games

What inspired Fiona Hardy to transition from writing children's books to adult crime fiction?

Fiona Hardy has demonstrated remarkable versatility as an author, moving from award-winning children's literature to crime fiction for adults. Her children's books tackled creative subjects like filmmaking and music, whilst her crime novels explore darker territory with morally complex characters and Melbourne's underbelly. This shift showcases her ability to engage different audiences whilst maintaining her distinctive Australian voice and storytelling skills across genres.

How does the Mornington Peninsula setting contribute to the atmosphere of Old Games?

The Mornington Peninsula, stretching southeast of Melbourne along Port Phillip Bay, provides a distinctive backdrop that contrasts coastal beauty with the novel's darker themes. This region is known for its beaches, wineries, and affluent communities, making it an intriguing setting for investigating the secrets of celebrity sportspeople. The geographic spread of the investigation across the Peninsula adds a dynamic element to Alice and Teddy's pursuit, as they navigate between different communities and locations whilst being pursued themselves.

What makes Alice and Teddy's approach to investigation different from traditional detective characters?

Alice and Teddy operate as morally flexible private investigators who pride themselves on fixing problems with a no-questions-asked policy, positioning them outside conventional law enforcement boundaries. Their willingness to work in ethical grey areas and their focus on resolving messes rather than simply solving crimes sets them apart from traditional detective protagonists. This approach allows them to navigate the murky world of celebrity secrets and personal scandals in ways that more conventional investigators might not, though it also places them in potentially dangerous situations.

Is Old Games part of a series featuring Alice and Teddy?

Given that Fiona Hardy's previous crime novel Unbury the Dead was shortlisted for the Ned Kelly Awards and Old Games features the same investigative duo of Alice and Teddy, this suggests a developing series centred on these characters. Readers who enjoy the dynamic between these morally flexible best mates and their unconventional approach to investigation may wish to explore Hardy's earlier crime work to see how these characters and their partnership have evolved.

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