What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hobart Hotel
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?
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?
464 pages, Paperback
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Mary-Lou Stephens
7 books181 followersMary-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.
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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
April 18, 2026
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.
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.
April 27, 2026
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.
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.
April 25, 2026
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.
April 10, 2026
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.
April 7, 2026
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.
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.
February 5, 2026
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.
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.
March 3, 2026
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!!!
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!!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
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 😀 ♥️📚
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 😀 ♥️📚
April 22, 2026
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!
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!
April 15, 2026
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.
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.
April 21, 2026
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.
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.
April 18, 2026
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.
Did seam long winded in places.
Was wonderful meeting the writer in Devonport.
April 29, 2026
I particularly liked the casino chapters.
March 9, 2026
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
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.
April 21, 2026
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.
April 23, 2026
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!
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!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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
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
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
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.
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.
May 9, 2026
Different to what I expected, but still a great book…..
After reading The Chocolate Factory and The Jam Factory, I’m not exactly sure what I was expecting from The Hobart Hotel, but what I did get was an entertaining story, well two in fact.
This book is a dual timeline, Sabine’s story which starts for the reader in December 1939, and Jenny’s story which begins in February 1973. Both storylines begin in Hobart and both centre around West Point Riviera Hotel, but that’s where the similarities stop.
Sabine is a sophisticated woman with more secrets than outfits, well maybe, she does have a lot of outfits, who travels to Uruguay as a spy, and Jenny is a naive home town girl whose life is about to become glamorous and complicated.
I will say that out of the two stories I enjoyed Jenny’s story more. So much so that each time Sabine’s story was front and centre, I found myself wanted to get back to Jenny as soon as possible. That’s not to say that Sabine’s story was uninteresting, just for me, not as appealing.
I’m not sure if it would have worked or not, but I guess that I would have liked it if the book was all about Jenny’s tale, and there were just snippets/flashbacks to Sabine so the readers had some basis as to what was going to happen. Anyway, that’s not what the book is, so I’m digressing.
Mary-Lou has an amazing skill of being able to describe the locations of historical Tasmania and it shows once again in this book. I felt like I was seeing the grandeur of 1939’s Wrest Point Riviera Hotel for myself, wandering the halls with all the sights and sounds, and equally, hearing the clink of the chips surrounded by the aromas of makeup and hairspray as the girls train to become Ladybirds of Wrest Point Hotel Casino.
One little disappointment that I had, is that the towards the end the story just leaps ahead and ends, making me feel like it was a bit unfinished, but despite this The Hobart Hotel is a fabulous book that entertains the reader with a glimpse into Hobart’s past, and well worth the read.
#thehobarthotel
#maryloustephens
#magesticicon
#hqbooks
#harpercollinssaustralia
After reading The Chocolate Factory and The Jam Factory, I’m not exactly sure what I was expecting from The Hobart Hotel, but what I did get was an entertaining story, well two in fact.
This book is a dual timeline, Sabine’s story which starts for the reader in December 1939, and Jenny’s story which begins in February 1973. Both storylines begin in Hobart and both centre around West Point Riviera Hotel, but that’s where the similarities stop.
Sabine is a sophisticated woman with more secrets than outfits, well maybe, she does have a lot of outfits, who travels to Uruguay as a spy, and Jenny is a naive home town girl whose life is about to become glamorous and complicated.
I will say that out of the two stories I enjoyed Jenny’s story more. So much so that each time Sabine’s story was front and centre, I found myself wanted to get back to Jenny as soon as possible. That’s not to say that Sabine’s story was uninteresting, just for me, not as appealing.
I’m not sure if it would have worked or not, but I guess that I would have liked it if the book was all about Jenny’s tale, and there were just snippets/flashbacks to Sabine so the readers had some basis as to what was going to happen. Anyway, that’s not what the book is, so I’m digressing.
Mary-Lou has an amazing skill of being able to describe the locations of historical Tasmania and it shows once again in this book. I felt like I was seeing the grandeur of 1939’s Wrest Point Riviera Hotel for myself, wandering the halls with all the sights and sounds, and equally, hearing the clink of the chips surrounded by the aromas of makeup and hairspray as the girls train to become Ladybirds of Wrest Point Hotel Casino.
One little disappointment that I had, is that the towards the end the story just leaps ahead and ends, making me feel like it was a bit unfinished, but despite this The Hobart Hotel is a fabulous book that entertains the reader with a glimpse into Hobart’s past, and well worth the read.
#thehobarthotel
#maryloustephens
#magesticicon
#hqbooks
#harpercollinssaustralia
Review of advance copy
This would have to be one of the most captivating and well written stories I have read in quite some time. Having been born in Tasmania, Mary-Lou Stephens brings a unique and wonderful perspective when bringing her stories built around Tasmania into being.
We begin the novel in 1939 when Sabine arrives in Tasmania, a lady of means and unafraid of what others think of her but ready to continue her steady and prosperous life here in Hobart.
In parallel to Sabine's story we then move forward in time to 1973 to learn of Jenny on the night of her 21st birthday, who does what she is told by her mum and is somewhat naïve but intelligent nonetheless. Jenny finds a beautiful gold dress in her mum's wardrobe and decides to wear it to the opening night of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino on a night out with her friends. The casino is something her mum has opposed every step of the way. Oh well, what Jenny's mum doesn't know won't hurt her.
Stephens expertly takes us between the stories of Sabine, espionage, world wars, conspiracy times and a journey to many parts of the world where danger lurks in every corner and she cannot trust anyone to the ordinary world of Jenny who defies her mum to become a Ladybird at the Casino making her own way with nothing more than a gold dress and a key with a letter from her great aunt.
The storylines in themselves are captivating and you as the reader are left wondering where the stories will collide and I have to admit, that was absolutely part of the charm of reading this book. Be warned though, a third of the way through this book (if not earlier) you will disregard any chores, plans or commitments you have as you will not want to put this book down. It was simply unputtdownable and an absolute treat to read. This is definitely a book to read in 2026, you will absolutely love it.
I am so grateful to HQ Insiders for providing me an uncorrected advance reader copy of this book in return for an honest review.
We begin the novel in 1939 when Sabine arrives in Tasmania, a lady of means and unafraid of what others think of her but ready to continue her steady and prosperous life here in Hobart.
In parallel to Sabine's story we then move forward in time to 1973 to learn of Jenny on the night of her 21st birthday, who does what she is told by her mum and is somewhat naïve but intelligent nonetheless. Jenny finds a beautiful gold dress in her mum's wardrobe and decides to wear it to the opening night of the Wrest Point Hotel Casino on a night out with her friends. The casino is something her mum has opposed every step of the way. Oh well, what Jenny's mum doesn't know won't hurt her.
Stephens expertly takes us between the stories of Sabine, espionage, world wars, conspiracy times and a journey to many parts of the world where danger lurks in every corner and she cannot trust anyone to the ordinary world of Jenny who defies her mum to become a Ladybird at the Casino making her own way with nothing more than a gold dress and a key with a letter from her great aunt.
The storylines in themselves are captivating and you as the reader are left wondering where the stories will collide and I have to admit, that was absolutely part of the charm of reading this book. Be warned though, a third of the way through this book (if not earlier) you will disregard any chores, plans or commitments you have as you will not want to put this book down. It was simply unputtdownable and an absolute treat to read. This is definitely a book to read in 2026, you will absolutely love it.
I am so grateful to HQ Insiders for providing me an uncorrected advance reader copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Mary-Lou Stephens has done it again with The Hobart Hotel. She took me on a journey from 1930's Tasmania to Europe where World War II begins and life is so very different from anything in Tasmania.
Mary-Lou Stephens always educates me as I read which is a wonderful talent. Reading this book I learnt about Australias very first Casino and how exciting it was for the staff but at the same time how many looked down on them and judged them for working in such a sinful environment that was thought would be the downfall of Tasmania but in truth did the opposite. Also imagine the 1930's and the fact that it was Tasmania that had the most luxurious hotel in Australia.
1970's Tasmania and Jenny is stuck in her boring office job but pleased to even have a job with work hard to find in struggling Tasmania. There is excitement and a lot of judgement regarding the opening of the new Wrest Point Casino but with the urging of her best friend she decides to visit the casino on its grand opening night. A decission she knows her Mother would not be happy about. That night changes her life when the amazing gold dress she wears gains her a lot of attention and an amazing job offer at the Casino. A job she has no intention of taking but some times life has other plans.
This story flicks between Jenny in the 1970's and Sabine in the 1930's who is working as a spy in Europe and living life on the edge as she gathers information against the Nazi's.
How the two females lives merge is wonderful and very cleverly done.
I loved the mention near the start of the book regarding the Jam factory which took me back to Mary-Lous previous book The Jam Maker. Another awesome book. Both books are well worth a read and I am very sure you will not be disappointed.
Thank you to HQ Insiders for this awesome book.
Mary-Lou Stephens always educates me as I read which is a wonderful talent. Reading this book I learnt about Australias very first Casino and how exciting it was for the staff but at the same time how many looked down on them and judged them for working in such a sinful environment that was thought would be the downfall of Tasmania but in truth did the opposite. Also imagine the 1930's and the fact that it was Tasmania that had the most luxurious hotel in Australia.
1970's Tasmania and Jenny is stuck in her boring office job but pleased to even have a job with work hard to find in struggling Tasmania. There is excitement and a lot of judgement regarding the opening of the new Wrest Point Casino but with the urging of her best friend she decides to visit the casino on its grand opening night. A decission she knows her Mother would not be happy about. That night changes her life when the amazing gold dress she wears gains her a lot of attention and an amazing job offer at the Casino. A job she has no intention of taking but some times life has other plans.
This story flicks between Jenny in the 1970's and Sabine in the 1930's who is working as a spy in Europe and living life on the edge as she gathers information against the Nazi's.
How the two females lives merge is wonderful and very cleverly done.
I loved the mention near the start of the book regarding the Jam factory which took me back to Mary-Lous previous book The Jam Maker. Another awesome book. Both books are well worth a read and I am very sure you will not be disappointed.
Thank you to HQ Insiders for this awesome book.
Read
March 16, 2026Thank you Harlequin Australia for the gifted ARC copy of The Hobart Hotel by Mary-Lou Stephens, and for having me as a HQ Insider for this book. This review can also be found on my bookstagram.
The Hobart Hotel much like Mary-Lou Stephens previous books, is a wonderful Australian historical fiction read.
As someone who has enjoyed Mar-Lou's previous releases The Chocolate Factory and The Jam Maker, I was looking foward to reading this and I can say that for me as a reader I wasn't disappointed.
Like Mary-Lou's previous books I've noticed her writing style, makes the locations and settings as much of a character as the characters are themselves. Particularly with this read the way both the Wrest Point Riviera and Wrest Point Hotel Casino were written, was much more than just a setting and narrative arc location.
I loved how she wove elements of mystery and intrigue into the narrative, as the choice to have one main character Sabine who is a theif who has her flaws. Was a fun choice as I thought she was a great character to follow, and Jenny in the second timeline was also well devloped character that had her own issues to explore. Overall both main characters were enjoyable to follow.
I also like how the character development and dynamics flowed, as both main characters in each timeline had thier own voice, issues, and experiences. This as a reader had me intrigued and wanting to know more as I read.
I also loved how the duel timeline narrative within the overall narrative, read in a way that appeared well thought out. As both timelines linked in and complemented, the overall narrative and character development.
Overall this was a wonderfully paced, fun, and enjoyable historical fiction read. That I'd recommend adding to your TBR, and or shelves when it comes out.
The Hobart Hotel much like Mary-Lou Stephens previous books, is a wonderful Australian historical fiction read.
As someone who has enjoyed Mar-Lou's previous releases The Chocolate Factory and The Jam Maker, I was looking foward to reading this and I can say that for me as a reader I wasn't disappointed.
Like Mary-Lou's previous books I've noticed her writing style, makes the locations and settings as much of a character as the characters are themselves. Particularly with this read the way both the Wrest Point Riviera and Wrest Point Hotel Casino were written, was much more than just a setting and narrative arc location.
I loved how she wove elements of mystery and intrigue into the narrative, as the choice to have one main character Sabine who is a theif who has her flaws. Was a fun choice as I thought she was a great character to follow, and Jenny in the second timeline was also well devloped character that had her own issues to explore. Overall both main characters were enjoyable to follow.
I also like how the character development and dynamics flowed, as both main characters in each timeline had thier own voice, issues, and experiences. This as a reader had me intrigued and wanting to know more as I read.
I also loved how the duel timeline narrative within the overall narrative, read in a way that appeared well thought out. As both timelines linked in and complemented, the overall narrative and character development.
Overall this was a wonderfully paced, fun, and enjoyable historical fiction read. That I'd recommend adding to your TBR, and or shelves when it comes out.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This historical fiction novel focuses less on historical events – although they are inescapable – and more on the two central characters. These women are vivid and generally quite sympathetic, and readers will quickly engage with their different struggles.
The story follows two time lines and two women. Both are forced by other people to take on jobs they’re not sure they want, and both then fight to regain control and assert themselves.
Sometimes with dual timelines one story is much stronger than the other, but here I found them well balanced and equally engaging. Both women are doing really interesting things, and taking on things that are challenging for them. Most of us might be able to see ourselves in Jenny more easily than Sabine, but most readers will admire and empathise with Sabine too.
The frustration of having others force your choices – or take them away from you – is keenly felt in both timelines, and it’s another thing that I think will draw empathy and understanding from readers.
It’s not that hard to work out at least some of the connections between the two timelines, although Stephens does keep some significant revelations for the final chapters. The historical details (perhaps I should also say the technical details, for Jenny’s storyline) are clearly well researched and very interesting. However, Stephens keeps her focus on the characters and doesn’t let the historical detail bog the story down.
This is a really good read, with particularly strong and sympathetic characters who most readers will like. The stories link in a very satisfying ending. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
You may enjoy my review of another novel by Mary-Lou Stephens:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
The story follows two time lines and two women. Both are forced by other people to take on jobs they’re not sure they want, and both then fight to regain control and assert themselves.
Sometimes with dual timelines one story is much stronger than the other, but here I found them well balanced and equally engaging. Both women are doing really interesting things, and taking on things that are challenging for them. Most of us might be able to see ourselves in Jenny more easily than Sabine, but most readers will admire and empathise with Sabine too.
The frustration of having others force your choices – or take them away from you – is keenly felt in both timelines, and it’s another thing that I think will draw empathy and understanding from readers.
It’s not that hard to work out at least some of the connections between the two timelines, although Stephens does keep some significant revelations for the final chapters. The historical details (perhaps I should also say the technical details, for Jenny’s storyline) are clearly well researched and very interesting. However, Stephens keeps her focus on the characters and doesn’t let the historical detail bog the story down.
This is a really good read, with particularly strong and sympathetic characters who most readers will like. The stories link in a very satisfying ending. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
You may enjoy my review of another novel by Mary-Lou Stephens:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Hobart Hotel is the third book I have read by this Author. I've enjoyed all her books and love the fact that you learn about a bit of history of Tasmania at the same time. The Hobart Hotel is an exceptional novel. It tells about the hotel in both past and present times alternating chapters between modern day (1973) Jenny and (1939 onwards) Sabine. Jenny lives at home with her mother and is almost forced to apply for a job at the newly build Wrest Point Casino in Hobart. She is ousted by her mother who doesn't want 'dirty money' in her home. Jenny takes to the job immediately and meets so many friends and enjoys a whole new lifestyle. She also wears a gold dress that belonged to her great aunt on opening night which attracts the attention of a number of people and we learn about the history behind that dress.
Sabine leaves her home in Tasmania and has made quite an interesting life for herself. She has many skills and has created quite a lifestyle that would be the envy of most. She is forced to leave the Riviera Hotel in Hobart and is whisked overseas with a mysterious gentleman otherwise risk being arrested. Her story is absolutely fascinating.
The two eventually merge to a very satisfying ending and I enjoyed this book from the first page.
I loved going back to the 70s when I went to the casino myself. The author had the images down pat and I remember gambling at the blackjack tables with my $20 on a $2 table which lasted for ages.
This is the best book I've read this year and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Australian historical fiction. Thanks go to HQ insiders for a copy of this book for review purposes. 5 well deserved stars.
Sabine leaves her home in Tasmania and has made quite an interesting life for herself. She has many skills and has created quite a lifestyle that would be the envy of most. She is forced to leave the Riviera Hotel in Hobart and is whisked overseas with a mysterious gentleman otherwise risk being arrested. Her story is absolutely fascinating.
The two eventually merge to a very satisfying ending and I enjoyed this book from the first page.
I loved going back to the 70s when I went to the casino myself. The author had the images down pat and I remember gambling at the blackjack tables with my $20 on a $2 table which lasted for ages.
This is the best book I've read this year and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys Australian historical fiction. Thanks go to HQ insiders for a copy of this book for review purposes. 5 well deserved stars.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Big thanks to Harlequin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Let me introduce you to one of my favourite reads of the year.
The Hobart Hotel is historical fiction at its finest.
A captivating story of a secret, a gold evening gown, a confident spy, a mysterious key, a ladybird and a glamorous casino hotel in two different decades.
And the author needs no introduction….
Mary-Lou Stephens is a masterful and talented storyteller with her last three books being exceptional five star reads.
You are about to be served elegance, mystery, beauty and adventure.
1939, Sabine Winters arrives in Hobart for the grand opening of the hotel Wrest Point Riviera.
Here to escape the war before starting overseas and to add to her growing stolen jewellery collection.
But instead is coerced into becoming a spy against the Nazis.
1973, Jenny Davies attends the celebrations for the new Wrest Point Hotel Casino.
Dazzling in a gold dress she attracts the attention of the staff and is offered an opportunity to become a Ladybird, a hotel croupier.
But a career in the industry sets off a chain of events that rattle it all.
When the two worlds clash it all rises to the surface…..
A dual timeline with two smart and strong women at the helm where in true delightful fashion their worlds collide.
It’s high quality entertainment.
Mary Lou has this flair for taking the reader back in time and placing them in the scene, it feels real like a voyeur watching the characters and the scenarios and being a part of that moment.
I found I was looking up google images for a sneak peek at certain times to get an overview in my head.
We are off to Hobart to celebrate the launch of this book and we couldn’t be more excited.
All the stars and then some.
Let me introduce you to one of my favourite reads of the year.
The Hobart Hotel is historical fiction at its finest.
A captivating story of a secret, a gold evening gown, a confident spy, a mysterious key, a ladybird and a glamorous casino hotel in two different decades.
And the author needs no introduction….
Mary-Lou Stephens is a masterful and talented storyteller with her last three books being exceptional five star reads.
You are about to be served elegance, mystery, beauty and adventure.
1939, Sabine Winters arrives in Hobart for the grand opening of the hotel Wrest Point Riviera.
Here to escape the war before starting overseas and to add to her growing stolen jewellery collection.
But instead is coerced into becoming a spy against the Nazis.
1973, Jenny Davies attends the celebrations for the new Wrest Point Hotel Casino.
Dazzling in a gold dress she attracts the attention of the staff and is offered an opportunity to become a Ladybird, a hotel croupier.
But a career in the industry sets off a chain of events that rattle it all.
When the two worlds clash it all rises to the surface…..
A dual timeline with two smart and strong women at the helm where in true delightful fashion their worlds collide.
It’s high quality entertainment.
Mary Lou has this flair for taking the reader back in time and placing them in the scene, it feels real like a voyeur watching the characters and the scenarios and being a part of that moment.
I found I was looking up google images for a sneak peek at certain times to get an overview in my head.
We are off to Hobart to celebrate the launch of this book and we couldn’t be more excited.
All the stars and then some.
March 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Harlequin Aus and Mary Lou for the chance to arc read The Hobart Hotel.
I absolutely adored this/these stories and how they interconnect.
The characters you have brought to life were full of charisma and emotion, with a lot of growth that ultimately made it feel like I could be reading about real people that I might know through a friend of a friend.
Definitely a book I will recommend to those around me and if I get to Tasmania you know I will be looking for the locations so I can pay a visit.
Blurb
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?
Thank you Harlequin Aus and Mary Lou for the chance to arc read The Hobart Hotel.
I absolutely adored this/these stories and how they interconnect.
The characters you have brought to life were full of charisma and emotion, with a lot of growth that ultimately made it feel like I could be reading about real people that I might know through a friend of a friend.
Definitely a book I will recommend to those around me and if I get to Tasmania you know I will be looking for the locations so I can pay a visit.
Blurb
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?
April 27, 2026
1939. Sabine Winters, local girl and international jewel thief recieves an offer she can't refuse and finds herself whisked away from the glamorous Riviera Hotel in Hobart to Uruguay at the height of wartime tensions to become an Allied spy. From US agents to Uruguayan mobsters to Nazi Germans, Sabine must face - and survive - them all, armed with only her wits and a dazzling golden dress.
1973. Jenny Davies finds a stunning golden dress in her mother's wardrobe, and wears it to the opening of the new Wrest Point Casino in Hobart. Despite growing up poor at the hands of a gambler father (or maybe because of it), Jenny trades in her public service job for the glamourous role of a croupier. But despite her good intentions - and good income - her mother disapproves, and Jenny finds herself living at the old Riviera Hotel. When Jenny recieves a letter from a previously unknown Great-Aunt, her fortunes could be changed forever, but she needs to have her wits about her.
--
This was a great read! Both Jenny and Sabine were flawed, relatable characters doing what they needed to survive. Both timelines were intriguing stories in their own rights, and they converged just at the right time for a satisfying ending. I loved the backdrops of Hobart, Montevideo, Piriápolis and Punta del Este, and the author has clearly researched the locations and history of the regions.
The whole story was engaging and well written. I'll be looking out for more of this author's work.
Note: I also listened to the Audible audiobook of this, narrated by Casey Withoos, who portrayed both the langurous glamour of Sabine and the naievity of Jenny with aplomb.
~This is a NetGalley ARC. All opinions are my own~
1973. Jenny Davies finds a stunning golden dress in her mother's wardrobe, and wears it to the opening of the new Wrest Point Casino in Hobart. Despite growing up poor at the hands of a gambler father (or maybe because of it), Jenny trades in her public service job for the glamourous role of a croupier. But despite her good intentions - and good income - her mother disapproves, and Jenny finds herself living at the old Riviera Hotel. When Jenny recieves a letter from a previously unknown Great-Aunt, her fortunes could be changed forever, but she needs to have her wits about her.
--
This was a great read! Both Jenny and Sabine were flawed, relatable characters doing what they needed to survive. Both timelines were intriguing stories in their own rights, and they converged just at the right time for a satisfying ending. I loved the backdrops of Hobart, Montevideo, Piriápolis and Punta del Este, and the author has clearly researched the locations and history of the regions.
The whole story was engaging and well written. I'll be looking out for more of this author's work.
Note: I also listened to the Audible audiobook of this, narrated by Casey Withoos, who portrayed both the langurous glamour of Sabine and the naievity of Jenny with aplomb.
~This is a NetGalley ARC. All opinions are my own~
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews