Val Penny: From Law Lectures to Bestselling Crime Novels and writing through life's challenges Artwork

Roundy's Rants, Raves and Reviews

As an English, Theatre, and Speech and Debate Teacher, I've got issues and thoughts on issues. My students call them my "rants". Everyone has their soapboxes, their certainties/beliefs, and each voice is important and should be heard! So, let's Rant together!

I also firmly believe that literature of all forms makes up a part of who we are, our beliefs/thoughts, and what we do with them to create.

In this podcast we discuss:

1) Rants: What's your certainty/soapbox? Let's have a respectful discussion about it.

2) Raves: The Literature/authors who have inspired you, your life, and your work.

3) Reviews: A discussion and review of your work (whatever you do), or what you believe others should be reading/watching/listening to and why.

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Roundy's Rants, Raves and Reviews

Val Penny: From Law Lectures to Bestselling Crime Novels and writing through life's challenges

December 17, 2025 • Tanya Harris Roundy • Season 1 • Episode 20

This is a video about Val Penny: From Law Lectures to Bestselling Crime Novels and Writing through life's challenges.
https://www.valpenny.com/, IG @valerieepenny, FB https://www.facebook.com/share/1F1apSU8k7/

In this episode of Roundy's Rants, Raves, and Reviews, Tanya is joined by bestselling author, blogger, and book reviewer Val Penny. Val shares her journey from being a law lecturer in the United States to becoming a prolific crime fiction writer in Scotland. She discusses her inspirations, the challenges she faced during her cancer treatment, and how she found solace in reading. Val also talks about the significance of loyalty, teamwork, and family in her novels, and provides insights into her creative process. Discover Val Penny's new series featuring the captivating character Jane Rennick, and learn how to support authors by leaving book reviews. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with writing tips, an inside look at Val's author journey, and an exploration of the vibrant settings in her books.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:34 Val Penny's Background and Writing Journey
02:40 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Inspiration
05:32 Favorite Authors and Writing Style
13:25 Themes and Characters in Val's Books
23:15 Upcoming Projects and Series
26:37 Where to Find Val's Work
28:46 Final Thoughts and Farewell

00:00 Val Penny: From Law Lectures to Bestselling Crime Novels and Writing through life's challenges.

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