Author talk: Tara Oldfield ‘Diamonds, Furs and Murder’
Saturday 9 May 2026 at 11:00AM
Melton Library & Learning Hub
Event Description
Home among the Melbourne slums and sideshows, Mona Hayes is anything but traditional.
'Diamonds, Furs and Murder' is a historical fiction novel inspired by the true story and crimes of this little-known 1930s thief. Join us in welcoming author, Tara Oldfield, to share insights behind her meticulously-researched debut novel.
Described by police as a well-educated, exceptionally clever crook, if Mona sees something she wants, she takes it. If the mark is deserving, even better. Undeterred by jail time, she hones her craft, performing cons on shopkeepers and charming the police. But when Mona falls in love with the mysterious Albert Sharpe, who will save her? Who will save him? And can Mona finally pull herself out of the life of crime she’s grown accustomed to?
In researching Victorian public records, author Tara Oldfield was so taken by Mona’s story that she embarked on a journey to create an imaginative portrait of a woman few people know, creatively filling in the gaps of this criminal’s thrilling exploits. Come along to hear how you can do it too.
When
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Saturday 9 May 2026
Contact
Where
Melton Library & Learning Hub
31 McKenzie Street
Melton VIC 3337
Australia
Google Maps
Event Partner
The Heritage Festival is on from Friday 24 April to Saturday 9 May 2026. Find more events at melton.vic.gov.au/heritagefestival
Bookings
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