The novel is set in the Scottish Highlands in a rambling mansion that used to be a zoo. The setting is as unusual and exotic as all the characters who arrive to attend the feast.

Alison is an actress who no longer acts, and Patrick a musician past his prime. The eccentric couple live an isolated, debauched existence. That is, until Patrick’s teenage daughter, Neve, flees Australia to spend a year abroad with her doting, unconventional father, and the stepmother she barely knows.

To celebrate Neve’s 18th birthday, her father insists on a special feast. Despite Neve’s objections, her mother, Shannon, arrives to join the celebrations. What none of them know, is that Shannon has arrived with a hidden agenda that has the potential to shatter the delicate façade of the loving family.As the weekend unfolds all three women’s secrets start to unravel and this creates a taunt, unsettled atmosphere, before coming to a dramatic conclusion.

Feast is essentially character driven, with all characters very nuanced and compelling. O’Grady has been masterful in taking the tension within and between the women and Patrick, creating a suspenseful, dark novel that borders on a thriller. Facets to each character are revealed skillfully and with deft writing.

Feast is a surprising read. I was drawn in from the first page and really looked forward to re-entering this weird and wonderful weekend in the wild Highlands.

Reviewed by Nicola Skinstad