"The Dinner Party" by Viola van de Sandt is such a strong debut, even if potentially uncomfortable (or even triggering to SV survivors, which I think should be mentioned at this point).

As readers, we get to know Franca's story from couple of time perspectives: present, organised around her therapy sessions; past, organised around main character's family relations and her time at university; more recent past, which is the day and the evening of the titular dinner party.

The psychological portrayal of Franca, considering her past and what she's experienced is very accurate. The fragmented narrative, lots of insinuations and very sensation-heavy descriptions (the heat, the smell of rotting meat - it's all written in a very immersive way) create a sense of tension, like something might escalate any time soon.

Well written, well researched, hopefully it will be well received by the wider audience as well.

Review of ‘The Dinner Party’ by Viola van de Sandt, due to be published on 4 November 2025 by Headline, Tinder Press.

The story follows Franca, who left behind her life to move in with Andrew into a home owned by his parents. Franca’s intention is to write whilst he works but finds herself grippped by anxiety.

Andrew insists that Franca hosts a dinner party, to be attended by his colleagues but despite her stringent planning, things go wrong made worse when one of Andrew’s colleagues arrives with an unexpected guest in the form of an old friend from Franca’s past.

A recommended read.