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, Fiction, Historical, Audiobook, Mystery, Australia

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

[EmG ReadsDaily · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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) · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️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 · Rating 3 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 3 out of 5]

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!

[cheryl brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 😀 ♥️📚

[Aryani Siti · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jayne Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 · Rating 4 out of 5]

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 · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Jane Melross · Rating 4 out of 5]

I particularly liked the casino chapters.

[Shahnaz Raza · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Sharah Powell]

RTC

[Karren Sandercock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tasmania, December, 1939, Sabine Winters is beautiful and glamorous socialite recently arrived in Hobart from traveling the Continent, she attends the opening of the Wrest Point Riviera Hotel, and she’s a professional jewel thief. During her stay a Mr Grey informs Sabine he knows what she’s up to, she tries to outsmart him, fails and ends up being becoming a spy. In Uruguay, North America, her role is to gain information from German’s or their sympathisers and pass it on and it’s strategically important to allies.

The Hobart Hotel is a dual timeline block buster about the opening of two iconic buildings in The Apple Isle and is told from the two main characters Sabine and Jenny's points of view and is easy to follow.

Tasmania, February, 1973, Jenny Davies attends the opening of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino with her friends Mandy and Debbie. Jenny wears a gold dress she found in back of mother’s wardrobe and is approached by a hotel employee asking her if she interested in becoming a Ladybird and croupier. Jenny is torn and she desperately wants to take the new job offer, they need the money, her father was a gambler, left the family in debt and her mum is opposed to betting in any form, a casino opening and protested against it. The choice is taken away, soon she’s training to be a croupier, and makes friends with her fellow Ladybird’s. Jenny is about to turn twenty one, when a letter arrives and a key and she has to solve the mystery?

I received a copy of The Hobart Hotel from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia and in exchange for an honest review. Mary-Lou Stephens is an author who's known for writing historical fiction based on real places, and you feel like you’re walking in the shoes of the main characters and witnessing what’s happening to them.

I enjoyed reading about both time frames, Sabine and Jenny have to overcome challenges, obstacles and in a world dominated by men with money and power.

A historical mystery about Tasmania, two events that happened in the world in 1939, war, espionage and secrets, choices, expectations and friendship, and two beautiful and glamorous women, is it a curse or ticket to an easier life, or does it put them in danger of being exploited or something even more sinister?

I was really looking forward to reading The Hobart Hotel, I was completely engrossed by the narrative, I got mad because people kept talking to me when I wanted to know what was going to happen next and I didn’t want to wait longer to find out.

I highly recommend, Ms Stephens delivers another must read, due to be released on the 31st of March 2026 and five stars from me.

[Petra Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saved my reading of Mary-Lou Stephen’s latest glorious Tasmanian infused novel, The Hobart Hotel, for the Easter long weekend. At a whopping 445 pages – with even the Author’s Note and the Acknowledgement pages at the back end making for interesting reading - I thought I would be able to savour it over several days. I don’t gulp a book down in one or two all night sessions. I much prefer to stretch out a good book by rewarding myself with a few hours here and a few hours there. So that’s what I did. And what a fascinating read this latest book is. Who of us amongst the general population knew that the Germans around the time of WWII had such an interest in and in fact footholds, all over South America.
There were many things I loved about this latest novel. I loved the interweaving story lines set across different decades populated with genetically connected characters. I loved Mary-Lou’s use of historically plausible details and gorgeous level of descriptive details. I couldn’t decide whether I wanted to travel first to Uruguay or Tasmania. Both locations were illuminated and anchored in the reader’s mind by Mary-Lou’s wonderful levels of descriptive detail. From the salons in Montevideo, the titles of books that Mr Grey reads and the Spanish infused architectural details of the Uruguan cities and towns Sabine lived, to the furnishings of all those grand hotels, they all come to life with rich visual details.
And how about this paragraph describing the summer evening in Piriapolis: “Outside on the terraza the air is deliciously fresh. An exuberance of stars shimmers in a velvet sky. Waves whisper against the sand. Couples on the Rambla stroll hand in hand. An ice cream vendor profit from those enjoying the night. A perfect picture postcard.”
And I loved Sabine. I know there are two intersecting story lines with two main characters but in my mind, it’s all about Sabine. I loved her. What a fierce, beautiful, clever and courageous woman she is. Yes, maybe she has some fault lines there – but who amongst us hasn’t got fault lines. I loved this story of this woman from an earlier period in Tasmanian history. Mary-Lou has created a lot of seriously gutsy women in her previous Tasmanian stories: The Last of the Apple Blossom, The Chocolate Factory and the Jam Factory. I’m still trying to decide which one of them is my favourite!
Great job Mary-Lou. I loved the history, loved the language, loved the locations. Marvellous. Congratulations once again.

[Chrissie Bellbrae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glamour, intrigue, and two women who will gamble their lives to survive…

What a perfect tagline to capture the essence of this story!

The Hobart Hotel is Mary-Lou Stephens’ fifth book, and her fourth of historical fiction and first dual narrative. Before I began reading, I was tipped off by a little bird that this was your best yet – and although I've thoroughly enjoyed each and every book so far, I have to agree.
Mary-Lou, I congratulate you on a truly scintillating read. I was captivated from the beginning and could not put it down.

Set between two timelines, The Hobart Hotel has all the feels of a James Bond movie. We have roulette and blackjack tables, flashy jewels, and couture evening gowns and exotic waterfront settings - but instead of Sean Connery, the espionage centres on the glamourous, Sabine Winters - a strong, intelligent woman making her own mark in a man’s world in 1939. Tasmanian by birth but with a European soul - I don’t think I’ve loved a character more in recent times. She has it all, beauty, brains, and the rat cunning of a survivor - served up with healthy dose of cynicism. For contrast, in the modern timeline we have sweet, innocent, ingenue, Jenny Davies, a young woman who, shall we say, is coerced into working as a croupier in Hobart’s new Wrest Point Casino in 1973.

One of the things I enjoy most about reading and writing historical fiction is the insight it offers to enlighten you about places, people and events that you previously had no knowledge of. I’ve had an education on casino etiquette and terminology - chipping and splits, counting cards and cleaning your hands! And I confess that I knew nothing about Uruguay, its wonderful European-inspired architecture, or its mix of people. Since finishing The Hobart Hotel, I’ve popped Uruguay on my bucket list of places to visit!

The dripping of celebrity names into the story was fun to read too –the popular stars of the day. I had a giggle at the tulip scene and the Tiny Tim mention for example. But this story has the works – laughter, intrigue, danger, love, deceit, mystery, friendship and numerous titivating sex scenes! Something for everyone.

I have to say that the sexual tension between Sabine and the dashingly dangerous Mr Grey was fabulous – Sabine was a tough cookie to crack.

The research that has gone into The Hobart Hotel is astounding - but written so seamlessly that it doesn't feel like a history lesson. Well done on a fabulous read!

[Shelagh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover of The Hobart Hotel is one I adored as soon as I saw it and held the book in my hands. It is perfect for this richly glamorous and adventurous book. Told in two timelines, the story takes readers back firstly to the early years of WWII, where we me the exquisite Mrs Sabine Winters, who is in Hobart for the official opening of the Wrest Point Riviera Hotel. Sabine presents as a wealthy and glamorous woman and is ensconced in a suite at the hotel, as befits her status, but behind the scenes, she is a thief and a gambler who has led an exciting life in the more glamorous parts of Europe, pilfering a necklace here, an earring there. When she is caught, she is blackmailed into helping the allied war effort in Uruguay, where she once again lives a pampered life, accompanied by the mysterious Mr Grey, her handler. Sabine is a glorious character. She’s strong and independent and despite her penchant for illegal activities, I couldn’t help but adore her. I cheered at the end when I discovered how things had ended up for her. Meanwhile, the second timeline set in 1973 sees another clever and independent heroine in Jenny Davies, whose story starts with her living with her mother and working as a receptionist. At the time, the Riviera has gone through a transformation and is newly opened as the controversial Wrest Point Hotel Casino, the first casino in Australia. Jenny and her friends attend the opening and she’s invited to apply to train as a croupier, known as a Ladybird, at the casino. Taking on that job leads to a fight with her mother, who is strongly opposed to the casino. Jenny moves to the Riviera, the old part of the new hotel, where she soon excels in her new role. The discovery of a letter from her Great Aunt Sabine and a mysterious key leads Jenny into her own adventure as she and her new friends try to find out what the key unlocks. The two stories intertwine, with a glamorous golden dress being a central to both. I loved the historical aspects that were woven into both stories. The 1973 timeline took me back to my youth with mentions of music, shops and drinks I enjoyed at time. As the cover of this story promised, this story has been an exquisite and immersive read. I feel honoured to have received an ARC of the book and look forward to rediscovering the story again and again.

[Jennifer (JC-S) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this novel, Ms Stephens takes us to Hobart’s Wrest Point, both to the Wrest Point Riviera (which opened in 1939), and to the Wrest Point Casino (which opened in 1973).

Sabine Winters arrives in Hobart for the opening of the Wrest Point Riviera in 1939. While Sabine has ties to Hobart, she arrives from Europe in anticipation of both safety and an opportunity to add to her extensive jewellery collection. Sabine is clever, but she is outsmarted and blackmailed into travelling to South America to gather intelligence about the rise of Nazi power there.

In February 1973, Jenny Davies and her friends attend the grand opening at Australia’s first legal casino, the Wrest Point Casino. Jenny wears a stunning gold dress she found in her mother’s wardrobe, and is invited to become a Ladybird, one of the casino’s croupiers. Jenny doesn’t intend to take up the invitation: she knows that her mother would object strongly, but her hand is forced when a friend intervenes.

The story moves between the two storylines with both Sabine and Jenny facing challenges. While Sabine must negotiate danger if she is to survive, Jenny learns of a mysterious relative who has left her a letter and a key. While the two storylines intersect at the end of the story, the journey held my attention from beginning to end.

I was partly drawn to this story because while I’ve never been to the Wrest Point Casino, it opened the year before I left Tasmania to live on mainland Australia. I lived in the north of Tasmania where opinion was just as divided about the casino as it was in Hobart. While some saw employment opportunities and tourism possibilities, others were convinced that gambling would destroy life as we knew it. I really enjoyed the way in which Ms Stephens connected the rise of Nazi power in South America and Sabine’s role in providing intelligence. Reading Jenny’s story was a reminder of life in Tasmania over fifty years ago. And the ending? Perfect.

Highly recommended historical fiction with a perfect balance between fact and fiction.

Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia HQ for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith

[Gillian Gates · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hobart Hotel is another of Mary-Lou Stephens beautifully written historical fiction novels. I was captivated and engaged from the first page right through to the end. It was very descriptive and detailed. I felt transported back in time into the different eras.

The book is set between two timelines, which had been cleverly interwoven together. It opens in December 1939 at the Hobart Waterfront, for the spectacular grand opening of the Wrest Point Riviera. Then in February 1973 for the opening night of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino.

In 1939 Sabine arrives in Hobart, after being away for 10 years, for the opening of the Wrest Point Riviera. This area is where she grew up and was raised by her father. He taught her to ride and hunt in the fields and to fire a rifle at 9 years old and a shotgun at 10 years old. He helped Sabine to become independent, self-sufficient, successful and strong. Sabine was interested in familiarising herself with the new hotel, especially the location of where the safe was. She admired all the women’s beautiful jewellery, especially the brilliantly cut diamonds, which she intended to steal and keep for herself. However unbeknown to Sabine she is about to be blackmailed to become a spy against the Germans.

In 1973 Jenny and her friends decided to go to the opening of the Casino. Jenny found a beautiful gold silk dress hidden at the back of her mother’s wardrobe. This was what she wore to the opening. Next to the dress was a letter addressed to Jenny and a key. Jenny was offered a job as a Ladybird, one of the Casino croupiers. Little did she realise her life was about to be changed forever.

It was interesting to learn about the training that was involved in becoming a Ladybird. It was not just how to play the games at the different tables, but it was the amount of time and effort that went into making each girl’s appearance look as good as possible.

The story has many themes including mystery, theft, love, friendship and loss of, secrets and war.

I highly recommend reading this wonderful book. Thank you to HQ Insiders for allowing me to read this ARC of The Hobart Hotel. I thoroughly enjoyed this and give it five stars. Looking forward to Mary-Lou Stephens next book.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

December 1939 saw the opening of The Wrest Point Riviera, a hotel so glamorous it was known as the most talked about in Australia. Tasmania now housed this remarkable building, and before long, Sabine Winters, an original Hobart girl, arrived from Europe after leaving Spain with grief in her heart. The hotel Riviera was her focus, with the wealthy for her to keep her eye on. With the war in Europe gathering speed, she was shocked to be approached by Mr Grey, to accompany him to Uruguay, a neutral country at this stage. Initially refusing, she finally realised she had no choice...

February 1973 and the grand opening of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino had caused division among the locals. Jenny Davies and her mother had been a unit since her father left them, with a massive amount of debt. Jenny's Mum was dead against the Casino, so when Jenny went to the opening with her friends, Mandy and Debbie, she was shocked to be invited to become a Ladybird, one of the casino's croupiers. Her mother would be angry with her, but Jenny was excited. She knew the money she'd make would be more than any other job in Tasmania. The result of Jenny's decision left a devastating impact on her, and the life she known. And when a mysterious letter was discovered, from an aunt Jenny didn't know anything about, she wanted to know the answers. But how?

The Hobart Hotel is another exciting historical novel set mostly in Tasmania by Aussie author (and Tasmanian local) Mary-Lou Stephens which I thoroughly enjoyed. I felt a little sorry for Sabine, although she was a strong woman, easily able to look after herself. And Jenny was another strong young woman, needing to work her future out. A little different to the author's usual fare; set in two time frames, from the peace of Tasmania to the political unrest of South America and the rise of the Nazi power. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & Harlequin Enterprises AU for my digital ARC to read and review.

[Lisa Matheson · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 BOOK REVIEW 📚

The Hobart Hotel
✍️ @maryloustephenswriter
📚 @harlequinaus

5 🌟

Thank you HQ Insiders for inviting me to read one of the most finest historical reads this year.

Such an exceptional read!

It's:
Jewel theif come spy,
Fashion,
Beauty,
Mystery,
Adventure,
Architecture,
Dual timelines,
Elegance,
Glamour (secret gold evening gown),
Music,
Celebrities,
Friendship,
Wonderful characters,
Nostalgic,
An absolute page turner.
About Tasmania's (& Australia's)1st legal Casino which opened in 1973.

I really also loved how Mary-lou in this novel has made connections to her previous other novels - The last of the Apple Blossom, The Chocolate Factory & The Jam Maker.

This is a MUST READ!

December 1939: The grand opening of Australia's most glamorous & 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 & thrilling action. What she doesn't expect is an invitation to become a Ladybird, one of the casino's croupiers. 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?

Mary-lou is an auto reader for me. She is just as beautiful IRL as her books. HIGHLY RECOMMEND ❤️

❓️ Have you ever been to a Casino? Especially Hobart's? Have you read this author? What is your current read set in?

I have been lucky enough to visit Hobart & Launcestions casinos when in Tasmania. I want to now revisit!