REVIEW: Dinner with the Schnabels by Toni Jordan

I discovered Toni Jordan back in 2008 with her debut novel, The Additions, and instantly became a fan. So when I heard she had a new book coming out called Dinner with the Schnabels I leapt at the chance to review it. Jordan is one of those authors whose style is both familiar and comforting while remaining unique. Her observations of both society and the individuals in them result in nods, smiles and outright guffaws as she creates characters navigating so many relatable situations.

Toni Jordan

Simon Larsen was an architect, riding the wave of financial and social success, until Covid hit and his job, career and house disappeared over months of lockdowns. Now a stay-at-home dad living in a tiny apartment with his family, depressed and lost but trying to pretend he’s not, he’s fooling no one but himself. He loves his wife, Tansy, and their two children Mia and Lachie, but with everything else he valued stripped away he is struggling to find his footing in this new reality.

Enter his mother in-law Gloria: a force of nature who decides to host a memorial for her late ex-husband David, the father of Tansy, Nick and Kylie. Add in a surprise visit from their half-sister from David’s second marriage and the narrative is off and running.

Gloria decides that Simon can landscape a close friend’s backyard for the memorial and in a fit of pique Simon agrees, but of course little goes to plan. As the newcomer stirs up old issues and new ones emerge, Simon has to face what he’s been avoiding for months.

There are so many wonderful, relatable moments in this book. Jordan has the gift few authors do when you almost want to look over your shoulder to see if she’s been watching you, or bugging your house, as her dialogue is so on-point. She explores both the frustrations and joys of family, life and starting again in the middle of your life.

There’s not much more to say without giving away too much of the story, so while you mightn’t want to be a member of the Schnabel family, they make for absolutely wonderful dinner guests. Grab a copy of the book, a glass of wine and settle in for an entertaining, touching and funny read.

—Dinner with the Schnabels by Toni Jordan (Hachette Australia) is out now. Limited signed copies are available while stocks last!

Dinner with the Schnabels

Limited Signed Copies Available!

by Toni Jordan

Things haven't gone well for Simon Larsen lately. He adores his wife, Tansy, and his children, but since his business failed and he lost the family home, he can't seem to get off the couch.

His larger-than-life in-laws, the Schnabels - Tansy's mother, sister and brother - won't get off his case. To keep everyone happy, Simon needs to do one little job: he has a week to landscape a friend's backyard for an important Schnabel family event. But as the week progresses, Simon is derailed by the arrival of an unexpected house guest...

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About the Contributor

Karen Robinson