The Hobart Hotel

by Mary-Lou Stephens

Glamour, intrigue and two women who will gamble their lives to survive ... the compelling new Tasmanian historical fiction from a bestselling Australian author.


December 1939: The grand opening of Australia's most glamorous and talked about hotel, the Wrest Point Riviera.

The equally glamorous Sabine Winters, recently arrived in Hobart from the Continent, anticipates a safe port from the storm that rages in Europe along with a few select items of jewellery to add to her (stolen) collection. What she doesn't expect is to be blackmailed into becoming a spy, torn from the safety of Tasmania and taken to the viper's nest of intrigue and plots that is South America during the rise of Nazi power. Her instincts and charms will only get her so far ...

February 1973: The grand opening of Australia's most glamorous, talked about and controversial hotel, the Wrest Point Hotel Casino.

Jenny Davies anticipates a night surrounded by dizzying decor and thrilling action. What she doesn't expect is an invitation to become a Ladybird, one of the casino's croupiers. But Jenny's choice to pursue this exclusive career creates a devastating chain of events that could destroy her life as she knows it. Can a mysterious letter and the gift of a key from a relative Jenny has never heard of somehow be the answer to all of her problems?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Audiobook, Fiction, Mystery, Book Club, Crime

454 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2026

About the author

Mary-Lou Stephens was born in Tasmania, studied acting at The Victorian College of the Arts and played in bands in Melbourne, Hobart and Sydney. Eventually she got a proper job - in radio, where she was a presenter and music director, first with commercial radio and then with the ABC.

She received rave reviews for her memoir Sex, Drugs and Meditation (2013), the true story of how meditation changed her life, saved her job and helped her find a husband.

Mary-Lou has worked and played all over Australia and now travels the world slowly and writes, mostly.

Her debut novel The Last of the Apple Blossom was published by HarperCollins (HQ) in 2021.

The Chocolate Factory (HarperCollins HQ) 2024.

The Jam Maker (HarperCollins HQ) 2025

The Hobart Hotel (HarperCollins HQ) 2026

Praise for The Chocolate Factory

"I devoured it in one sitting. It's an absolute treat - totally enthralling and completely and utterly satisfying. It's another triumph for Mary-Lou Stephens. " – Karen Brooks, best selling author of The Good Wife of Bath

"Sweet and bitter, and a story that’s brightly compelling and thought-provoking at once. With Stephen’s fine eye for historical detail and ear for dialogue that’s just right, this novel is a lovely leap into the past." – Kim Kelly winner of the Finlay Lloyd 20/40 Prize

Praise for The Last of the Apple Blossom

‘What a cracker of a debut! A beautiful story of family and orchards, of secrets and love and forgiveness.' – Victoria Purman, author of The Women’s Pages

‘The crisp prose sparkles and the characters stay with you long after the story ends.' – Lauren Chater, author of Gulliver’s Wife

‘Timeless yet also telling an achingly familiar story to us here and now, this is an unforgettable tale of love and loss, triumph and tragedy.
– Karen Brooks, author of The Good Wife of Bath

'Mary-Lou Stephens writes evocatively about family secrets, love, sacrifice, and finding the courage to rise again after devastating loss. An engrossing and poignant story, beautifully told.'
— Christine Wells, author of Sisters of the Resistance


'I have long been a fan of Mary-Lou's writing, which is always evocative and compelling. What a wonderful story this is, set at such a poignant moment in Tasmania's history. I loved it.'
— Josephine Moon, author of The Tea Chest and The Jam Queens

Praise for Sex, Drugs and Meditation

"Bracingly honest, funny and rewarding, this is a book you can't put down." Sydney Morning Herald.

"Perfection. Sex, Drugs and Meditation is one of the best memoirs I have read in years. Humble, witty and so very, very true. All I wanted was for this book never to end." --Walter Mason, The Universal Heart Book Club.

"A bad girl antidote to Eat, Pray, Love." Courier Mail.

Reviews

[Wendy Hart]

When I started The Hobart Hotel by Mary-Lou Stephens, I thought the plot had too much glitz and glamour. As I got into it, I didn’t want it to end. The dual-timeline novel has a global focus, but all roads lead to Hobart and what is now the Wrest Point Casino. The author has done in-depth research, skillfully weaving little-known historic events into her writing. Her ability to describe landscapes and places is exceptional. I have been to Hobart a few times. The view, the Casino, Mount Wellington, the waterfront, and Salamanca Place match my memories exactly. What sets this book apart is its vivid, atmospheric prose. The reader can see the landscape, feel the cold and snow, imagine the glittering gold dress, and hear the buzz of the Casino. I cannot praise this book enough. Read this treasure.

[EmG ReadsDaily]

Glamorous and beautifully crafted Tasmanian historical fiction!

I loved the Wrest Point setting, reading about how Sabine and Jenny overcame their challenges, and the mysterious elements of the two timelines.

I really enjoyed how early on in the book, there are some connections made to the other stories by the author, including The Jam Maker, The Chocolate Factory and The Last of the Apple Blossom.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and Mary-Lou Stephens remains an auto-read author for me.

[Helen]

I loved this one, again MS Stephens has not disappointed me this story, it is absolutely fabulous told in two time lines, with wonderful characters and settings I fell into it and savoured the story.

1939 and it is the big opening for the Riviera Hotel in Wrest Point Tasmania and Mrs. Sabine Winters has travelled from Europe to be at the opening she is looking forward to the glamour after all that she has been through in Spain and now what is happening in Europe, she will have some choice selections for her (stolen) collection of jewellery she is sure, what happens is she is blackmailed by Mr. Grey into joining him in spying and she soon finds herself married to Mr. Grey and landing in Uruguay, South America where she puts herself in danger to get information about the Nazis who are doing their best to take over the country.

In 1973 Hobart is the place to be with the opening up of Australia’s first casino at The Wrest Point Hotel Casino and twenty year old Jenny Davis and her friends attend the opening and Jenny has found a gorgeous gold dress at the back of her mother’s wardrobe and she wears it, it really is special and she is soon approached by one of the managers and asked if she would like to become a Ladybird and Croupier but she knows that her mother will not stand for it she is against the Casino, but matters are taken out of her hands and soon Jenny finds herself, training to become a Ladybird, making new friends and earning more money that she ever did but is also causes a rift between her and her mother and soon she is living in The Riviera Hotel. With Jenny’s twenty first birthday coming up she finds a letter with a key that says this will change her life and soon Jenny and her friends will be uncovering an old mystery that will change her life.

This is a fabulously told story of two strong woman, two awesome settings it really is a page turner and has everything an historical fiction story needs, mystery, romance and adventure, I loved both Sabine and Jenny and the two timelines, the 1973 one bought back lots of memories for me with bands and music and The House or Merewether, I remember The Casino opening and all the fanfare that went with it. The ending is just the best, a fitting end to an awesome story.

I do highly recommend this one I loved it.

My thanks to Harlequin AU and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.

[Susan Mackie]

Despite being an absolute page-turner, I took my time, savouring the story, the writing, the history and the glamour. A fascinating tale and a must-read.

[Gloria (Ms. G's Bookshelf)]

⭐️5 Stars⭐️
What an absolutely captivating story of glitz and glamour, The Hobart Hotel by Mary-Lou Stephens is set in pre-war Uruguay, South America and Tasmania, Australia and is told in dual timelines of 1939 & 1973.

I was intrigued learning about the rich history of the iconic Wrest Point Riviera Hotel & Wrest Point Casino and of course the glamorous Ladybirds and their intricate skills, I just had to search the internet to see if these ladies were real and check out their costumes!

The 1939 storyline features Sabine Winters a self confident glamorous socialite who’s a cunning jewel thief, she’s originally from Hobart and has newly arrived from Europe for the opening of The Wrest Point Riviera Hotel in Tasmania. Sabine finds herself blackmailed by the mysterious Mr Grey, soon after they land in Uruguay, South America together where Sabine is tasked to spy on the Nazis.

In 1973 a somewhat naive Jenny Davies attends the opening of Australia’s first legal casino, the Wrest Point Casino. It’s Australia’s most talked about and glamorous venue where Jenny wearing a hardly there dazzling gold dress at the opening is approached and invited to become a croupier at the new casino. Unfortunately after she takes the position this creates a rift in the family but when a mysterious letter is discovered at home Jenny needs answers.

I loved the espionage, secrets, glamour, controversy and mystery. Learning all about the casino was fascinating, who would have thought.

I highly recommend this story, I adored and devoured it! Meticulously researched with skilful writing, don’t miss this one!

Publication Date 31 March 2026
Publisher HQ Fiction AU

Thank you so much Harlequin Australia for a copy of the book. This opportunity was part of the HQ Insiders readers program.

[Andrea]

2.5★

I loved the nostalgia, particularly from the 1970s storyline, but overall I felt the story was too flimsy to sustain such a long novel. There were several threads that didn't lead anywhere, and in my view it would have been a better read if they had been edited out.

While I was studying at UTAS in the mid 80s, I too worked at Wrest Point (not as a croupier!), so reading this novel brought back lots of memories and was the catalyst for a lovely chat with my Dad about the history of the site, and I'm grateful for that.

Thanks to NetGalley and HQ Books Australia for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Leanne Lovegrove]

The glitz and glamour of Tasmania to pre war Uruguay, this one has it all. Meticulously researched with twists and turns, this is a page turner that I devoured.

[Lisa]

I'm going against the majority here but I found this book tedious at best, highly annoying at worst. I'm being generous with my 3 stars.
I absolutely loved this author's previous novel, The Jam Maker, so I had high hopes for another great read, I was disappointed.
Dual timelines, historical fiction, set in Hobart (half the story anyway)- all these things I love! However I found Sabine (one of the two main characters) absolutely awful, right from the start. I could honestly not find one single thing endearing about her and her actions throughout the story irritated me to the extreme. I had no interest in her story /timeline in Uruguay, and given this stretched on for the majority of the book, I found myself skimming through the pages just to get 'her' chapters over with.
Jenny, the main character in the 2nd timeline was more bearable and her story was actually set Hobart, however her childish naivety and, as the story progresses, her mystery-solving skills with her friends reminded me of a Scooby Doo episode.
I have never written such a negative detailed review, but there you have it. I'm aware almost everyone is raving about this book but it just truly annoyed the hell out of me!

[Sharah Powell]

The Hobart Hotel is a wonderful historical fiction by Mary-Lou Stephens. Set in Tasmania and beginning in 1939, the story follows glamourous socialite and jewel thief, Sabine Winters, as she attends the opening of the famous Wrest Point Riviera Hotel. After fleeing heartbreak in Europe, Sabine is approached by the mysterious Mr Grey while staying at Wrest Point. Sabine is given no choice but to accompany Mr Grey to South America as WWII rages on. The dual timeline also follows Jenny Davis, a young Ladybird (casino croupier) who gains employment in 1973, at the controversial Wrest Point Hotel Casino, against her mother's wishes. Jenny uncovers a mystery involving a beautiful gold dress, a letter and a key that links Jenny to the past. I look forward to reading more of Mary-Lou’s books. Thank you to HQ Insiders for my ARC.

[cheryl brown]

The first few chapters had me hooked, the story line intriguing and promised mystery etc but then it got bogged down in the middle especially with the story surrounding Sabine. I actually got bored reading at this stage but kept going. And then, it was like the author also got bored writing and didn't know where to go next so it ended, just like that. VERY disappointing ending.
Overall disappointing, I have read all of ML Stephens previous novels and thoroughly enjoyed them from start to finish. In my opinion, this one just didn't meet her usual standard.

[Cindy Spear]

Mary-Lou Stephens has a real gift for digging out historical nuggets from her origin state and this time she has written about Tasmania’s (and Australia’s) first legal casino which opened in 1973. I always learn so much reading her books and this one was just as fascinating as her previous but it displays even more intrigue, mystery and mayhem. There is always an added layer of maturity in her writing and this one just ramped up to another level in style, expertise and passion. It possibly helps that she has personal connections to the topics covered. This takes story telling up a notch above just ‘imagined’ fiction with its large serve of authenticity. Her wonder, excitement and keen interest shines in the fruit of her research, too.

The Hobart Hotel is written in two timelines but they intersect at the end bringing the two eras cleverly together. The story opens in 1939 with a memorable descriptive scene. We can see, smell and feel all that Sabine experiences as she walks off the gangplank at the Hobart Waterfront. She wants to make an impressive entrance, ‘as if descending a grand staircase in Monte Carlo’ but her high heels set her off balance. We get a pretty good idea of this lady’s personality from reading the first couple of paragraphs. She has a certain air about her that exudes importance – a woman who wants to be ‘beloved, envied, imitated’. She has been living away in Europe but her arrival back to her roots stirs up memories of her childhood in Tasmania. What has brought her here? Why, of course, something high-profile and important! The grand opening of ‘Australia’s most glamorous and sophisticated hotel’ – the Wrest Point Riviera Hotel. Putting Riviera and Tasmania in the same sentence is not something you would normally do because that word (although meaning ‘coastline’) often is associated with luxury, glamour, a lifestyle that attracts the elite. As the author explains, the Tasmania she grew up in is very different from the one now. Back then it was considered ‘boring and daggy, fifty years behind the mainland.’ Its’ bad economy, decreasing population, sparse work opportunities and having one of the most polluted rivers in the world (Derwent), did not make it very attractive in the past. But a lot has changed over the years.

The casino offered a chance to move up in the world and boosted tourism and the economy. But as the story reveals in the 1970s timeline through various characters, many were against its presence. The author tells us in her notes that the debate and controversy was seen in her own family. Her father was part of the state legal team who ‘oversaw the legalities of the enterprise’. Her mother was against it for spiritual reasons and her sister became a Ladybird at the casino after it opened. Mary Lou watched her practicing with cards and dummy chips.

There is lots of fascinating history and personal inspiration behind this novel. And after reading the introductory passage I was hooked. My curiosity had me googling the Hotel/Casino’s name for more information. I could see why it inspired Mary-Lou Stephens to write a story about it. But there is more to this plot than meets the eye. The past timeline year of 1939 gives it away. The author’s visit in Uruguay delivered valuable information she drew upon. The first battle of World War II – the Battle of the River Plate, was fought off the coast of where she was staying. People she met and academic papers she located provided valuable insight into Uruguay’s connections with the US before WWII. Being on location also meant she could trace Sabine’s steps. Again adding authenticity.

Back in Tasmania, we get a great opportunity to explore Wrest Point Riviera and Wrest Point Hotel Casino. These were meticulously researched and transported to the realistic images and culture presented in the story. I truly felt transported to each location, fully and seamlessly. Sabine is a fascinating thief turned war spy character that was a blast to follow. I won’t tell her story (you need to read it!) but her speech, presence and tact were epic. The men in her life could barely keep up to her.

In the second timeline, I also enjoyed following Sabine’s great niece, Jenny Davies. We are moved forward to February 1973 and the grand opening of the glitzy and controversial Wrest Point Hotel Casino. Jenny is invited to become a croupier – Ladybird in the casino. But this new venue has been declared by some to become the downfall of Hobart – drugs, crime and prostitution. Her mother has been repeating this message for years since the casino has been proposed. But Jenny attends the opening with her friend Mandy who says, ‘It’s the only exciting thing to ever happen in boring old Hobart.’ Hmm…familiar words. Plus the stores conveyed ‘they were fifty years behind the times.’ We know this tale is going to head into some intriguing directions when Jenny takes on a job that could change her life and relationships dramatically. And when she finds a letter and key that has been left to her by a relative she never knew of, well that opens up another delicious mystery we can follow while she tries to uncover all the clues. How will the two timelines come together? And how will the revelations affect her life? Well, it’s an exciting journey with plenty of adventures, twists and mayhem along the way, with an epic ending.

One trademark of Mary Lou’s is reminding us of her earlier books in her current novel. The Jam Maker is hinted upon in the first page at the mention of the ‘stench of fuel and fish’ mixed with the sugary scent of IXL jam making. These little mentions add a nice touch and provide continuity. It is like an ongoing thread that ties all her historical fiction novels together. Clever!

Well, I shan’t say more, as everyone needs to get on board of this historical fiction train and take a journey back in time with Sabine and Jenny. It is fascinating, fun, informative and inspiring. Another top notch HF novel from the beloved Tasmanian born wordsmith, Mary-Lou Stephens. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to HQ Fiction and Netgalley for the review copy.

[Karina Peacock]

Absolutely Loved it!

This book has all the things I love reading, romance, a big mystery, travelling to amazing places and mostly a Fabulous Duel Timeline!!!

Wonderful Characters and amazing Settings!

This book gripped me from the very beginning and did not let go!!!

[Nicole West]

This book is set in Tasmania 1939 when the grand opening of Wrest Point Riviera happens and there are mixed feelings within Hobart.

At the hotel, you will get taken into the world of glamorous high society full of corruption, gambling, with young girls asked and trained to be ladybirds, the casino's croupiers.

Sabine Winters has arrived in Hobart from the continent, escaping Europe for a safer setting. Whilst staying at the hotel, she is up to her usual gambling and acquiring jewellery worn by other pretegious guests. She is unaware that she is about to be exposed and blackmailed to be an undercover spy against the Germans.

You will also be taken into the world of Jenny Davies, who is invited to be a ladybird, as her best friend has applied for her, this sets off a chain of events that she must follow to find the truth.

I truly enjoyed reading this book as it had a slightly James Bond feel to the story. You also get caught up in the glamorous fashion and jewellery worn. It was also very intriguing how the ladybirds were transformed and trained for the gambling tables. This story also had a mystery to solve that kept me engaged.

Loved this book immensely. Thanks, HQ Fiction, for my ARC copy 😀 ♥️📚

[Heidi]

Now this is what I call a brilliant historical novel! Well researched facts, enigmatic and complex characters and an intriguing plot, THE HOBART HOTEL had me spellbound from beginning to end. Money, gambling, espionage, war, strong women and complex relationships drove the novel at a pace that had me glued to the pages, resentful of any interruptions. Sabine was just such a force to be reckoned with, and I loved the way Jennie came into her own as the novel progressed. I ended up reading up on the many fascinating historical details in the novel and felt almost as if I had time-travelled, so vivid was my experience in reading this book. I was sad when it ended!

This is what historical fiction is meant to be – a glimpse into another time and walking in the footsteps of interesting characters. I have already lined up one of the author’s other novels to read next. Highly recommended!

[Aryani Siti]

The Hobart Hotel by Mary-Lou Stephens is a historical fiction story set in 1939 and 1973 in Hobart, Tasmania.

Sabine’s story in 1939 was exciting and full of danger. I liked reading about spies, secrets, and her journey during the war. Jenny’s story in 1973 was also very interesting, especially learning about the opening of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino and what it was like working there as a Ladybird.

Both women faced difficult choices and had to be brave enough to survive. I liked how the book mixed history, mystery, family secrets, and drama together. I especially liked the mystery about the letter and key because it made me want to keep reading.

This is a great book for people who enjoy Australian historical fiction with strong female characters, mystery, and a little romance.

[Annette]

A good historical fiction story about Australia's first casino Wrestpoint Hobart. We live in 2 timelines which in the end comes together nicely. An enjoyable read

[Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves]

Australian author Mary-Lou Stephens returns with The Hobart Hotel, a compelling dual-timeline historical novel that captures the glamour and underlying tension of Tasmania’s iconic Wrest Point. Spanning the grand opening of the Wrest Point Riviera in 1939 and the controversial launch of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino in 1973, Stephens masterfully weaves together two distinct narratives of women fighting for autonomy in eras of profound transition.

The novel centers on two protagonists navigating environments where their choices are not entirely their own. In 1939, Sabine Winters arrives in Hobart seeking refuge from the escalating conflict in Europe. A woman of mystery and style, she intends to lay low and expand her collection of stolen jewellery, only to have her plans upended when she is blackmailed into espionage, a path that drags her from the safety of Tasmania into the treacherous political landscape of wartime South America. Meanwhile, in 1973, Jenny Davies finds her life irreversibly altered on the opening night of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino. Invited to train as a Ladybird, one of the casino's croupiers, Jenny is thrust into a world of high-stakes ambition and sudden danger, where a cryptic letter and a mysterious key left by a relative she never knew force her to confront secrets that may be the key to her survival.

If you enjoy stories that breathe life into iconic historical landmarks while keeping you guessing, this novel deserves a spot on your reading list. It is an evocative and suspenseful escape that perfectly captures the intersection of glamour, danger, and the enduring quest for personal freedom.

[Tianne Shaw]

Well this is yet another terrific book by Mary-Lou and on a Hobart Icon. This is the first split time one as well.

From the WW2 era and then the bustling 1970’s this icon is relevant both ways and just as exciting from their openings and how they change.

Start with Sabine Winters and the turn of times. Then add Jenny Davies giving up what most would say was a good stable job to work in a Casino. Each story is fantastic on its own but add some mystery and a few twists and turns it is so much better.

Fantastic reading and can see this being just as popular as the others.

Thank you to HQ insiders for this opportunity to read.

[Carolyn]

The Hobart Hotel by Mary Lou Stephens is a beautiful, nostalgic read based on the Wrest Point Casino in Hobart Tasmania.

I really enjoyed this story and what it was to become a Ladybird, one of the casino's croupiers and hearing about roulette and blackjack with the art of 'shuffling the cards' expertly.

The Gala Opening night of the Casino is not to be missed!

The Hobart Hotel as much as it is historical fiction it is also a mystery with the inclusion of spies in South American countries.

This is a lovely read to while away the hours and get immersed in this story and the locations.

[Jayne Shelley]

Loved it! The perfect blend of history and fiction! The flipping between stories and time was seamless.
I'm really keen to visit Hobart and go to the casino now! I've always found the new casino building fascinating. Is the revolving restaurant still there? I'm so keen to find out.
Sabine and Jenny were marvellous characters. I'd love to be them but I'm definitely not smart enough.
Great novel, highly recommend!

[Miles Franklin]

Loved reading the details of Hobart especially cat and fiddle. It’s always wonderful going back in time with a place that’s familiar
Did seam long winded in places.
Was wonderful meeting the writer in Devonport.

[Natalie Pomeroy]

3.5 ⭐️
I didn't love this one as much as the others.
I have stayed at Wrest Point Uh la la

[Amy]

I loved the two timelines and stories, they were interwoven really well!

[Emma Johnson]

Very easy read (listen) I particularly liked the 1970 story
It’s quite clever how the two stories weave together and then meet at the end!

[Peta]

This was really different to what I usually read, but I really enjoyed it. I knew the different timelines would join at one point but it took me quite a while to make the right connection. I really enjoyed both timelines and stories, but I felt a bit unfulfilled at the end!

[Amanda Kelly]

I can see why a lot of people gave this 5 stars. It’s a great premise and it will hook you in quickly. Plot is great and the dual timelines are fab. I just prefer a bit more character development but would still recommend this.

[Jane Melross]

I particularly liked the casino chapters.

[Shahnaz Raza]

Review of Advanced Copy received from publisher

The Hobart Hotel is a work of historical fiction that intertwines the stories of two women whose lives are shaped by the iconic Riviera Hotel. Sabine, a cunning woman who finances her extravagant lifestyle with stolen jewellery, is drawn into the world of espionage, setting her off on an exciting and unpredictable path. Meanwhile, Jenny begins a new role as a croupier at the hotel’s casino, embarking on a personal journey of growth and self‑discovery. The book is thoroughly engaging, with a heartwarming twist at the end that took me by surprise. I truly enjoyed reading it and would happily recommend it to others.

[Keri Pennicott]

I was so excited for the launch of this novel. Sadly it fell a little flat for me. I disliked the Sabine storyline and found myself skimming through it to get back to the 1973 storyline. I found that story a bit lacking as well but the historical information about Wrest Point was really interesting and brought back memories of working as a Government Inspector.

The Rex aspect of the story seemed unnecessary to me. Perhaps more explanation of the relationship between Jenny and her mother would have been more interesting.

Overall a good read, just not to this authors usual standards.

[Rachel Abercrombie]

I really wanted to love this, but sadly it did not live up to my expectations. While I quite enjoyed learning about the early days of the Hobart Casino, the dual timeline in the early days of WWII was lacking. Sabine was completely unlikeable, the spy storyline farcical, and the ending quite silly. Jenny in 1973 was a little too naive to be believable and the storyline predictable. In both timelines, some threads were left unfinished. Saved from a 2 star rating by the quality of the writing.