The Hobart Hotel is an intriguing historical fiction narrated through dual timelines. A fictitious story involving the true events of the opening of the Wrest Point Riviera Hotel in 1939 and the Wrest Point Casino in 1973.
In 1973 Jenny Davies attends the opening of Tasmania's Wrest Point Casino and much to her mother's dismay applies for a job as a croupier. She soon becomes what is known as a Ladybird and a whole new life is opened up to her.
Mary-Lou Stephens has researched her topic well and it shows through in a believable storyline. The plot involving the beginning of WWII is rich in political intrigue as the reader is taken from the relative safety of Tasmania to South America's political unrest.
Stephens sets the scene in both eras with mentions of fashion, news events, music, celebrities and architecture of the time.
I was much more invested in the 70's plot. I suppose there was an element of nostalgia there which gave me that added connection.
I do love stories set during the war however I felt the political intrigue and propaganda far outweighed the moments of danger and that side of the plot fell a bit flat for me.
From the changing face of Hobart, Tasmania in the 70's to Montevideo, Uruguay The Hobart Hotel is a sweeping tale of political intrigue, spies and glamour.
I loved how the two time-lines came together in a way I wasn't expecting. I just think it was all wrapped up a little too nicely at the end.
The Hobart Hotel was an exceptional story and well worth a read, just not my favourite by Mary-Lou Stephens.
My rating 3 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐
Publisher: HQ Fiction
Publication date: 31st March 2026
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 464
RRP: $34.99AU (trade paperback)
Source: courtesy of the publisher
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