A family gathering, but not everyone who sits down to dinner will survive it. Poisonous lies, family secrets, addiction and revenge – always a dish best served cold – are all on the menu. For readers of Sally Hepworth, Jo Dixon and Ali Lowe, this twisty domestic suspense holds you captive from its gripping beginning to its shocking denouement.
Maz Antonio has spent the last two years in prison so is determined to make the first major family gathering in their new home deep in Australian suburbia as perfect as possible. She owes it to everyone after the terrible mistakes she’s made … mistakes for which she will always be trying to atone. This special lunch is her chance to make things right for her husband and children, to show everyone that she can maintain her sobriety, that things can go back to normal. (Whatever normal looks like when you have traumatic, confusing flashbacks of that fateful day where two innocent lives were lost.)
Her sister, Elli, is in. So is her husband’s brother. Her distant father-in-law is gracing them with his presence and her mum Margaret is on the way from Newcastle, bringing a colleague – a virtual stranger she impulsively invited.
But is this man really a stranger? Or could it be that he is intimately connected to the past that Maz has so desperately been trying to put behind her – a past that’s about to explode across the dinner table in the deadliest of ways…
Buy a copy of The Stranger at the Table here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
Women’s thrillers seem to be having a moment and I’m loving it! The Stranger at the Table by Cassie Hamer is a great addition to the genre and didn’t disappoint. It is a beautifully paced novel that kept me enthralled throughout. The collection of interesting characters, explorations of challenging situations and a familiar Australian setting made for a great read. However it is the well crafted suspense that leads me to highly recommend this book, especially to fans of Liane Moriarty. Anna, QLD, 5 stars
Excellent thriller which captures your attention from the first page. The thrill of not knowing what happens next had me turning pages faster than most books. Great characters and setting, highly recommend. Graciela, NSW, 5 stars
What a page turner! The Stranger at the Table is one of those books that’s very hard to put down once you’ve picked it up. The plot was paced well and I loved how fleshed out the characters were – even the next door neighbour. I particularly enjoyed the Australian setting too! Lisa, VIC, 5 stars
A compelling page turner about the complexities of guilt and shame- and the manner in which those feelings and emotions can erode your identity and self-esteem. Marianne carries a large amount of guilt and shame about her alcohol dependency which led to a tragic accident that killed two innocent people- a grandmother Dianne, and a baby girl Rose. The knock on affect that tragedy had on both families plays out- for Dominic (the son and Uncle) Ellis (Maz’s sister and auntie to Maz’s two daughters) Margie (Marianne and Elli’s mum) and the guilt, responsibility and remorse they each feel for the role they played on that fateful day. So well written, highly recommend! Pennie, QLD, 5 stars
Wow, The Stranger at the Table was a compelling, suspenseful read. I was completely pulled in by the prologue in which two paramedics are called to a family Christmas lunch because one of the guests has suffered a serious injury. The paramedics begin to experience a growing sense of unease as no one at the lunch is able to answer their questions about what happened. It is quickly apparent that no one seems to even know who the mystery guest is. This kicks of an intriguing novel, full of twists and turns, as long-lasting deceptions among family members begin to unravel to reveal the truth. Amanda, QLD, 5 stars
Everything I enjoy in a novel – an unpredictable plot (mainly) with a couple of unexpected twists. The plot, although fiction, could easily eventuate into a possible real- life story. A different type of crime tale! The characters slowly evolved until you felt as though you knew them. They were ones that we all know in our lives – the people pleasers, the narcissistic bullies, the selfish and workaholics, those suffering from dementia & the innocent young. I laughed, almost cried, and felt bitter, revengeful, justifiable anger at times. All relatable. This slow but compulsive page turner holds you captive throughout this complex tale. I loved, loved, loved this story, and am eager to read more of Cassie Hamer’s complex plots. Valerie, VIC, 5 stars
My first book by Cassie Hammer and it won’t be my last. I couldn’t put this book down. Christmas dinner doesn’t go as planned for a lot of people. The was the first Christmas Maz had with her family since she got out of prison. It was going to be the best Christmas the family had ever had. A death a Christmas dinner isn’t something that one would expect. The twist in the plot had me guessing until the end. Debbie, VIC, 5 stars
Christmas, a time of excitement and anticipation, Marianne plans to make this Christmas the best she can for her family, to make up for the past Christmases she has missed. Told through the different viewpoints of Marianne, her sister Ellinor, mother Margaret, and Dominic, the stranger. It is a story that builds revealing how we get to the point at the start of the book where paramedics arrive to tend to the horrifying discovery of the victim at the bottom of bloody steps leading from the veranda. Every family has their secrets, and this family is no exception. Each chapter peels back a new layer to the story. Alcoholism, a tragic drunk driving accident and trying to rebuild a life accepting the consequences of your actions is what Marianne must face. As the different layers of this story were revealed it became harder to put the book down. My first Cassie Hamer book and it won’t be the last. Rita, WA, 5 stars
From the first chapter and all the way through, this book had me hooked. The introduction of characters and the unveiling of the truth, piece by piece, kept me guessing until the final chapter. The plot unfolds during the weeks leading up to Christmas day, with family and personal secrets uncovered. Another fantastic book by Australia author Cassie Hamer. Gemma, VIC, 5 stars
WOW! the stranger at the table had me on the edge of my seat from the very first page. The more you read, the more intense it got! The ‘stranger’ really did end up being just that! What a ride! highly recommend if you like a book that’s impossible to put down. Vaughan, WA, 5 stars
Maz is trying everything to make Christmas lunch perfect for her family. It’s the first major celebration with people she loves, the family who has supported her; she wants to redeem herself for being absent the last few years. Things aren’t what they seem, everyone is keeping secrets and is her mum’s friend actually a stranger? I enjoyed reading this and think it would be a very good novel for a book club. Luciana, WA, 5 stars
Trying to create the perfect Christmas for family and friends is hard enough but even harder when you’ve recently been released from prison. Starting a new life in a new place is hard, harder when you hope people don’t recognise you and remember what you’ve done. Maz is trying so hard to make up for all the mistakes she made and bringing everyone together for Christmas seems the answer. Working hard to fit in and get back to normal is harder when you keep having these memories that you don’t want to have. Cassie Hammer has written this story just like the perfect meal. The starter is meeting all the characters and finding how they all fit together. Mains is biting into the story and learning how and why everyone fits in. Dessert is finding the perfect ending that ends the delicious meal. This book has so many characters and yet each character has an amazing story that blends together to create and exciting meal. Everyone brings their own dish to the table. Cassie certainly knows how to make a page turning, axis shifting ending. It is incredible and will make you think about what you read. My favourite read this year. Ann-Marie, SA, 5 stars
A sumptuous feast of a book, The Stranger at the Table is first and foremost a book about women, their relationships and what they’d do for each other. Marianne is an alcoholic, fresh out of prison for a crime she committed under the influence. She’s desperate to start over, reconnect with family and control her drinking. Told through the eyes of Marianne, her sister, Elli and her mother, Margaret with ‘guest’ appearances by neighbour, George and Dominic, a victim of the crime, the shifting point of view adds to the realism and the tension of the story. Marianne was particularly well done as her behaviour struck me as an accurate description of the day-to-day battle to control the urge to drink. Forgiveness forms the backbone of the novel. Everyone has done something wrong, everyone is keeping secrets and it threatens to destroy them, individually and as a family. To move forwards they need to first forgive themselves and find the strength to ask for forgiveness. Overall, this was an enjoyable and engrossing story that kept me turning the pages after I should have turned out the light! I’d recommend it to fans of Lisa Jewel, Nicola Moriarty and Hannah Richell. Cherie, NSW, 5 stars
This is my first time reading a Cassie Hamer book but definitely won’t be my last! What an amazing thriller with many unexpected twists. It also explores some important issues in a sensitive manner. I would highly recommend this book. Jenny, VIC, 5 stars
Every family has its secrets but none more so than the Antonio family. It seems every member of this family has a secret that has the potential to have a huge impact on the remaining family members if discovered. Will divulging the secrets bring clarity and understanding, or rip relationships apart? This impact ripples over into others who come into contact with the family including a stranger who has his own demons to grapple with. In The Stranger at the Table, Cassie Hamer keeps the reader guessing right up until the very end with one surprise after another as each secret is revealed. Her writing is beautifully descriptive as well as frank and powerful. She writes in a way that truly allows the reader to really know the characters – their inner thoughts, worries and joys. The reader finds themselves wondering what they would do in the same situation. A thoroughly enjoyable and thought provoking read right up until the very last page. Fiona, VIC, 5 stars
This is the first book I’ve read by Cassie Hamer and I thoroughly enjoyed it from the first page until the last. I thought I had the plot twist worked out but wow, what just happened, I was not expecting that! A truly exceptional story that kept me up late into the night with the unfolding drama of these two families connected by a tragic event. Juanita, SA, 5 stars
This domestic Noir will be the standout read in this genre for 2025 hands down! It delivers on poisonous lies, addiction, family secrets and revenge and left me hungry for more! Meet Maz Antonio – wife, mother, daughter and sister – so what’s so special about her? She has spent 2 years in prison and now she’s out and determined to be the perfect wife and mother in suburbia and making this Christmas as perfect as possible – after all she has to make it up to everyone for the terrible mistakes she made that left her in prison for the previous 2 years. She wants to prove that she can remain sober and that everything can indeed return to normal. Her sister Elli will attend lunch as will her husbands brother and her husbands father, Maz’ mum will also be joining them along with her colleague who interestingly enough isn’t a stranger at all. What is this strangers connection to Maz’ past and how does Christmas lunch become deadly. Catherine, NSW, 5 stars
Creative, intriguing and kept me interested.Short chapters on each character kept the story moving.Unexpected ending but very well done. Sometimes the people we think we know show their true selves in certain situations. Never be The Stranger at the Table Sharnee, QLD, 5 stars
This book is an amazing read. It contains so much drama, deceit, lies and misplaced shame. The storylines and gripping suspense made it hard to put down as I just wanted to get to the ending which was a total surprise with so many twists. I loved the character Maz who was being totally manipulated by people who supposedly loved her. I didn’t know this author whose style was quite similar to sally Hepworth. i will look forward to reading more of her books in the future. I can highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery. Karen, VIC, 5 stars
The Stranger At The Table is a must-read. It starts with the end, so throughout the story, you are piecing together bits to make sense of the start, which is the end. It keeps your mind ticking. I loved it and highly recommend it. Laura, NSW, 5 stars
A cleverly written story of relatable family characters, relationships , lies and secrets. With twists and revelations throughout had the reader always wanting to learn more Megan, NSW, 5 stars
Set in suburban Sydney and north of Sydney in Newcastle, this story centres around Marianne and the complex relationships she has with her husband, her sister, her children and her mother. It explores mental health, addiction, emotional trauma and a complex web of lies, treachery and betrayal. Some very life like and relatable characters and personalities, the story is well paced and maintains a level of intrigue and anticipation. Overall, an enjoyable read. Bree, NSW, 5 stars
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, couldn’t put it down. It takes us inside the Antonio family with secrets, love, grief, betrayals and guilt. The book gave a great understanding of the family dynamics and was a very clever and exciting read. Natalie, VIC, 5 stars
This was my first Cassie Hamer book, but it certainly won’t be the last! Wow, what a great ride that was. Lots of unexpected twists and turns. I loved how each chapter was devoted to a particular character, and they weren’t overly long. The book begins with present day events, then jumps around to previous events and times, letting us discover how the characters end up in the circumstances they find themselves in. We also learn more about each character, what motivates them, like peeling back layers of an onion. The book moves along at a good pace, with my attention grabbed from the start, keeping me turning the pages until late at night to see what happens next. Maree, QLD, 5 stars
What an awesome novel ! Once I got into it ,which again, didn’t take long, I found it so hard to put down for later. The author, Cassie Hamer, took me to Center stage, to be there and experience all that was happening. A new author for me, but one that I will definitely follow for other novels. And for me, BONUS that she’s an Australian writer, and the story is set IN Australia. This is a twisty domestic suspense story, certainly holding the reader in suspense. The main character is Marianne (Maz) Antonio , who is a daughter, sister, wife and mother of two young girls . She has just been incarcerated for 20 months, following a fateful car accident where 2 innocent lives were lost. The family have re-located to Sydney — new people,new school, new start . Christmas is approaching, a lot needs to be done. So so important to Maz, she wants to show everyone coming that she can maintain her sobriety, continue on as “normal”. BUT, can that be achieved ? Maz is lately having strange flashbacks from the accident that she can’t workout ! ENJOY Edith, SA, 5 stars
Marianne is finally home with her husband and two daughters after almost 2 years in prison, being for the drunk drive accident that killed two people. They have moved from Newcastle to Sydney to start a new life and she received an 8 day early release as Christmas was nearing. Marianne wanted to make it the best Christmas, seeing she had been away for the 2 previous. Her mother Margaret, does volunteer work and every year seems to bring a stranger home that has no one else to celebrate with. This year she has asked Dominic to come, knowing exactly who he is. How will Christmas go at the Antonio’s with this stranger at the table?????? GREAT READ Sue A, NSW, 5 stars
We find Maz, a wife and mum of 2, trying to settle back into home life after being in prison for the last 2 years. Christmas is just around the corner and she’s trying to plan the perfect Christmas day meal for the whole family. It’s her way to try and make up for being away for so long from everyone. This book had me hooked from the beginning. It’s a family drama, with secrets kept close to the chest until they are let out over Christmas day, and lunch ends in murder. I loved the style in which it was written – multiple point of views throughout the book. Will definitely be keeping an eye out for this author for any future works she releases. Francine, NSW, 5 stars
Wow…what an incredible read from the amazing Cassie Hamer! Intrigue, thrills, suspense and plot twists…. An incredible page turner that will not disappoint! Definitely 5 stars!! Caren, SA, 5 stars
Telling the truth, no matter how painful, is more important than ever in this family drama. Seemingly inconsequential secrets have a way of affecting the future for years to come. This Christmas, Marianne comes face to face with her demons and shocking elevations are made from the past and present. Amy, WA, 5 stars
This book was gripping from the very beginning, where we are greeted by the end outcome – the supposed death of a victim. But how did we get there, at Christmas of all times? You will need to read it to the end to find out! From opening this book, I was hooked as the tale of Maz, an alcoholic, unfolds. You get to fall in love with the character as she struggles with addiction and trying to be a good mother, starting over a new life, after returning from jail. But all is not as it seems as plots and true characters are revealed. Who is Maz in all of this and is she the one at fault in the car accident that changed her life forever? From cover to cover, I absolutely loved this book! Sarah, TAS, 5 stars
Immediately this story had me captured. It was about ordinary people with struggles and dark secrets. The characters are trying to move on with their lives, but past events are holding them back in different ways. There were enough twists to this story to keep me turning the pages and the characters were all “familiar” to me as they represented real life people. Jacqui, QLD, 5 stars
Starter: A surprise guest. Main: Shocking revelations. Dessert: Death… Welcome to the most unforgettable Christmas lunch of the year. Some books grip you from page one, and The Stranger at the Table is exactly that—twisty, immersive, and impossible to put down. A perfect summer or beach read, this HQ Thriller serves up poisonous lies, family secrets, addiction, and revenge, all at the most chaotic Christmas lunch imaginable. Told from multiple perspectives, we meet Maz, an ex-con desperate to prove she’s changed. Her sister Elli, wary of the past resurfacing. And their sweet mother, Margaret, whose kindness—inviting a lonely stranger to lunch—sets off devastating consequences. And then there’s Dominic. A stranger. Or is he? Jumping between Christmas Day, early December, and the past, this domestic noir is packed with tension and shocking twists. If you love Sally Hepworth, Jo Dixon, or Ali Lowe, add this to your 2025 TBR. Liisa, QLD, 5 stars
The Stranger at the Table is my new guilty pleasure. I was only on Page 2 when I realised that I loved this book. It appeals to our hidden selves; the parts of us that we hide from daily life, but not from ourselves. “Not a lie, but not quite the truth either” Meet Marianne – she made a mistake in her past that seemingly won’t stop affecting her future. As we are introduced to Marianne I was desperate to know her secret. As the story unfolded I was desperate to know everyone’s secrets. Cassie Hamer writes beautifully, but beware – this isn’t a simple, easy read. It is a novel filled with intense ideas and subject matter. A novel you can really sink your teeth into. It speaks to the issues in our lives without being condescending; without making it a moral debate. It’s a precautionary tale, but one told from a place of love. I truly believe this book is meant to save people. Alicia, NSW, 5 stars
I loved The Stranger at the Table so much that I almost managed to read it all in one night. The story had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning. Who is the person who had the fall? You have to wait until the very end to find out. This had everything, betrayal in love, lies, family dynamics. A fantastic read. Alice, NSW, 5 stars
Full of twists, this novel proves that secrets never stay hidden and our past always come back to greet us, when we less expect it. Sarah, TAS, 4 stars
I really enjoyed this suspenseful book. I liked the way it was set out with the multiple character views. I was backing Marianne all the way! Great ending. Natalie, WA, 4 stars
Another great read by Cassie Hamer! From the first page I felt like I was in suburbia – I could see and feel the world that was inhabited by the characters. But, there were some plot twists I certainly didn’t see coming! The Stranger at the Table is a great read for anyone who loves a good, twisty story of family and secrets. Nicole, NSW, 4 stars
Established Australian author Cassie Hamer returns with a gripping and suspense laden thriller. In her latest story, Hamer spins an addictive tale that blends elements of crime fiction and mystery complete with some shocking twists and unpredictable turns. This novel draws you deep into its tangled web of revenge acts, withheld secrets and blatant lies with a sense of ease The story follows Marianne (Maz) Antonio, who has returned home after a stint in prison, struggling to overcome her past. After a life shattering accident, she’s on a path to redemption. Hosting a dinner party in the hope of proving her progress to her family, Maz is determined to make a fresh start. But things take a dark turn when an unexpected guest arrives. This situation will shatter everything. With its intriguing cast set and taut line of tension, The Stranger at the Table offers readers a thrilling show. Hamer’s switch to the thriller genre is a brilliant move and this new tale is a testament to her ability to craft a composed narrative. The twists, vengeance and deception present throughout kept me on the edge of my seat. If you love psychological thrillers, this is a vital read. Amanda, WA, 4 stars
We all know Christmas day can be stressful, with extended family coming over, hosts trying to impress and wanting to make the perfect day for all. It is no different for Maz, wanting to make up to her girls for having been gone and trying to prove to her family that she has changed. Her perfect gathering is threatened by family secrets, lies, betrayals and the effects of addiction. Everyone comes to the table with a different motive and the emotions are high. Through a twisting story-line, switching between present and past, we learn the truth behind who Maz is, what she has done and how she is coping. Different characters points of view allow us an insight into the different key members of the story. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way, with key details expertly worked into the story and clever clues dropped along the way. This Australian crime thriller highlights the effects of family secrets, trauma, the hidden story of addiction, self-discovery and the ripple effects this can all have on a family and those they encounter. This story was an absolute page turner and kept me reading long into the night. Megan, SA, 4 stars
A story with plenty of twists and turns. Relationships in a family can be tense, but when you add unknown guests, addiction, secrets, jealousy, love and betrayal, all wrapped up in Christmas Day, there is bound to be drama. This book by Cassie Hamer is a page turner where you are left waiting and guessing what happened in the past and the consequences. Thoroughly enjoyed this book! Sue, WA, 4 stars
A fascinating exploration of family, grief and atonement, featuring cleverly written portraits of decidedly grey or even downright unlikeable characters. The reader can never be sure whose point of view is truthful. Having the story take place at Christmas adds the fuel of emotion and expectations to a broiling powder-keg of both family and fatefully acquainted relationships. Watch out for the ending! Heidi, VIC, 4 stars
For Maz Antonio, fresh out of prison for a crime she’s still trying to atone for, she just wants the perfect Christmas Day with her family, but when her mother brings along a colleague that could be connected to her past, and her overbearing father-in-law makes an appearance, Maz isn’t sure how to handle it all. She’s been living with her alcoholism, vague memories of the crime she was found guilty of, was it an accident or not, and the daily challenges of her new life. Now she is faced with all of her memories of past events, as well as the secrets of others, coming to the fore at the worst possible time. Arguments ensue, then another tragic accident occurs, finally bringing to light the past that Maz has been struggling to remember clearly. The story starts with an accident, then it builds on the memories that have been supressed by Maz, as she tries to uncover the truths of her past with help from those around her, what is real and what is not. A gripping read that makes you appreciate your “normal” family get togethers that little bit more. Anne, ACT, 4 stars
I really enjoyed this book – I found myself invested in the characters and intrigued by the slow-burn reveal about the incident at the centre of the plot. It was a nice, easy read that tied up loose ends nicely. Hamer handled the perspectives of different characters well, and made each voice believable. Her writing was enjoyable to read – I particularly enjoyed her metaphors. Keen to read any future work by this author! Lara, VIC, 4 stars
Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year but this is one Christmas lunch I would avoid at all costs.A bunch of unpleasant characters all with secrets, past regrets and conflicting motives and behaviours. Not surprisingly the outcome is somewhat sticky for one of them but how and why does it come to this? You’ll have to read this twisty tale told from various points of view in the lead up to the fateful day and also discover several back stories along the way. Well written and paced, I followed along all the time wishing that the main character Maz had actually married an honest, hard working, smart tradie than the handsome, intelligent lawyer that the family obviously preferred. Her life could have been so different…sigh. Lesley, QLD, 4 stars
I was caught up by the characters from the beginning and being able to view the situation from their diverse roles in the events was helpful in trying to figure out what actually happened at the heart of the tragedy concerned. Some characters were likeable and some definitely were not, adding to the tension throughout. Many thought provoking topics are raised during the telling of Marianne’s story and many family secrets revealed. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and will be seeking out more of Cassie Hamer’s books Sue, NSW, 4 stars
An unfortunate chain of events leads to the death of a grandmother and her young grandchild. If only … From the entire cast of characters, if only one of them had done something different, the outcome could have been different. Everyone silently carries their own bit of guilt. When they all come together for Christmas lunch their silence is broken. Hamer has created a story with many intriguing layers. Bernie, WA, 4 stars
Marianne has done her time for a crime she committed. Or has she? As players in the story share their memory of the day, not everything is as it seems. As Marianne’s memory of the day returns, it is revealed that not everything is as it seems. An exciting new release from Cassie Hamer. Perfect for those who have enjoyed Sally Hepworth. Amy, WA, 4 stars
Guilt is a powerful emotion. The characters in this story all carry their own guilt. Some more than others. Keeping that guilt bottled up affects so many people, as Hamer’s characters discover. This story will make you rethink about keeping your secrets to yourself. Jan, WA, 4 stars
Everyone’s version of the truth is different. Hamer’s characters are each very different individuals. They each harbour their own truth. You won’t guess the outcome of this heart wrenching story. Linley, WA, 4 stars
The perfect holiday read! Straight into the gripping story line, fast paced and plenty of twists. Addresses the topics of addiction and influence of family genetics. Christmas Day takes an unexpected turn and the readers are provided answers to their questions. I read this book over three days and now will be wanting to read other novels by Cassie Hamer. Anne, SA, 4 stars
Another great read from Aussie author, Cassie Hamer, which focuses on a family trying to piece their relationships back together after Mum, Marianne, is released from prison. Struggling with guilt she decides to create the best Christmas ever, but secrets and lies abound, and one person at the Christmas table will not survive. Told from multiple viewpoints I found this a slow burn, but I am so glad that I persevered because by halfway I was totally invested and couldn’t put it down Patricia, QLD, 4 stars
“The Stranger at the Table” by Cassie Hamer is a well written story about family, hidden secrets and complex relationships. It explores the layers of life in suburban Australia, and the themes of the book are relevant and easily relatable, while still touching on some difficult societal issues. Maz, the main character and her extended family could be any ordinary family, whose lives can be flipped over in an instant. It also raises the importance of honesty and the ability to risk facing societal shame, in order to reveal your true self, and live an authentic life. This book captures your attention from the first page, and is an easy and compulsive read. Thoroughly enjoyable, and I will be on the look out for more fiction by this author! Fiona, NSW, 4 stars
Cassie Hamer has done it again. A good mix of suspense and humour, I didn’t know where this one was going but I liked it. Really good dialogue and believable human interactions, I feel like I really know and care about these characters. Perfect holiday read, not too taxing on the brain Zephyr, WA, 4 stars
An enjoyable easy read, A little predictable but with a few twists. This story is happening around Christmas time which is often not a happy time for all. Families are complicated enough but when you discover some of your family have been lying to you and you’ve been punished for their lies, you are going to want to set things straight. Christmas Day is not what this family is expecting. Tracey, VIC, 4 stars
An Australian family drama with more layers than an onion, coming in April 2025! Unlike the humble allium, The Stranger at the Table is a book full of family secrets and lies, which all come to a head over Christmas lunch. Tink, TAS, 4 stars
I enjoyed this book. It was clever writing; they acknowledged early on in the book that there was something hinky going on but managed it well by hinting at a number of possible options, to keep you guessing until the reveal at the end. It was well paced, with decent character development. There was a definite acceptance of the complexity of humanity, and human decisions throughout, which was refreshing. The only real issue I had was with the current cover (not a final cover). To me it felt disconnected from the book; even looking at it after finishing the book, I still feel no connection between the cover and the story I read. Tracey, NSW, 4 stars
An edge-of-your-seat page turner that keeps you wondering what everyone’s secrets are, and who can you really trust in your own family? Every family has their secrets, but the Antonio family has every secret out on the table this Christmas! A thoroughly engaging read that will captivate the reader from the very first page. Kate, VIC, 4 stars
This one’s hard to comment on, because most things I could say will be a spoiler. Marianne Antonio is an alcoholic. She thinks she’s under control but she totally is not. Yet. In fact she’s spent the last two years in jail because of a horrendous crime, committed while under the influence. Now she’s out, struggling to get her life back with her two adorable young girls and her loving, supportive husband. They’ve moved to a new house, the girls to a new school, and maybe, just maybe, life might get better. Until Christmas Day, when someone very unexpected gets invited to lunch. Reading this book you get the sense there are dark secrets lurking, and wow, there are! The twists and shocks just keep coming as the book inches towards a huge truth reveal I never saw coming. A taut, thrilling read. Malvina, NSW, 4 stars
A twisty domestic thriller exploring family dynamics, secrets, addiction and suburban drama. It had a strong set-up that captivates the reader from the first chapter and urges you to read on and keep turning the page. However unfortunately I found this momentum was slowed midway by long drawn-out flashbacks that disrupted the story and that I felt could have been conveyed more succinctly. The inclusion of a covid related storyline also felt unnecessary and overdone 5 years after the fact. I did predict the ending/’whodunnit’, however I still enjoyed the unfurling of the mystery. A cosy enjoyable read for readers who love a good domestic mysterious laden drama. Yvette, NSW, 3 stars
The Stanger At The Table by Cassie Hamer is a poignant novel that weaves together themes of family, identity, and personal healing in such an interesting way. I enjoyed how each chapter of the novel shifts focus to a different character, offering a multi-layered perspective on the central events. Hamer gives voice to the experiences and struggles of each individual, enriching the narrative with varied viewpoints and personal stories. I was able to strongly relate to the thoughts of the unique characters as well as the complexities of family relationships. The Stranger At The Table is a slow-burn character study, exploring how the past shapes the present. Cassie Hamer’s skilful storytelling draws readers into a journey of self-discovery, making this debut novel a captivating and reflective read. Ainslie, VIC, 3 stars
Imagine you’ve just gotten out of jail and to bring your loved ones together you are hosting a Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Thats the teaser, or the appetiser in this case. From page 1 we are fed snippets of Maz and her troubled past and now her new struggles, to find a new life outside of a jail cell. She is humbled by the little things in life and being reunited with her husband and daughters…that is until she keeps getting flashbacks to the accident that started it all. Maz starts to question her own sanity, her past addictions and her new town. This book was a slow burn but as each family branch starts to unravel, it will leave you ravenous for more. Carol, NSW, 3 stars
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