How well do you really know the people you work with?
For work wives Debra and Quinn, it’s a case of opposites attract. They are each other’s lifelines as they navigate office politics and jobs that pay the bills but don’t inspire them.
Outside work, they are also friends, but where Quinn is addicted to dating apps and desperate to find love, Deb has sworn off men. Although Deb is not close to her own mother, her teenage daughter is her life and there’s nothing she wouldn’t do to protect her. But Ramona has other ideas and is beginning to push boundaries.
Life becomes even more complicated by the arrival of a new man at the office. One woman is attracted to him, while the other hoped she’d never meet him again.
But when Deb, Quinn and Ramona are forced to choose between friends, love and family, the ramifications run deeper than they could ever have expected.
Read some great 5-Star reviews from our Preview readers here:
The Work Wives by Rachael Johns is a mirror story for us, mums of almost grown up daughters. We gave them all. We saved them from all the evils (most of them). We love them to the moon and back… but we forgot (or almost) about ourselves. Live and let live, should have been Deb’s motto… She will come to it eventually. The Work Wives is a heart-warming, kind, thoughtful and thought through story of motherhood, coming-out-of-helicopter-motherhood and giving up dating up addictions. Well, this book is such a bunch of tidbits of our lives. I can see myself and people I know in the characters. They speak my language. This book is to laugh, cry, give yourself a pat or a stern look in the mirror. Enjoy. Svetlana, VIC, 5 Stars
Once again Rachael Johns has not disappointed. The Work Wives is a thought provoking book that has been written with such clarity you imagine that you’re part of the story. When you spend so much time at work, you can sometimes end up with a work wife, after all you spend probably more time with them than you do at home. But what is the cost of this when your life starts to intertwine…? Another must read from Rachael’s Women’s fiction/contemporary/life literature that will keep you turning the pages. I definitely found it hard to put down. Do yourself a favour and grab a copy, you’ll be glad you did. Jody, SA, 5 Stars
I really loved “The Work Wives” by Rachel Johns, it was the first time I had read one of her novels and I enjoyed the humour the sincerity with which it was written. I love seeing the different POV from each character and certainly didn’t see the twist at the end. I really thought that was a genius idea. Highly recommend. Shannan, NSW, 5 Stars
As a fan of Rachael Johns, I was thrilled to receive a copy of her latest novel, The Work Wives, and what a treat it turned out to be! The book centres on the lives of Debra and Quinn, who, while having nothing but their workplace in common, are the best of friends. We also learn about life from Debra’s teenage daughter, Ramona, whose struggle to find a sense of identity is crucial to the plot. Part romance, part thriller, and part exploration of the human condition, The Work Wives kept me turning the pages long into the night. I particularly loved the short chapters and the way in which Johns presented events from the viewpoint of one central character (Debra, Quinn or Ramona) per chapter. I felt as though I was in the world of the characters, experiencing life through their eyes, and truly caring about them. I still find myself wondering what they are doing and how life is treating them now. For me, this is the mark of a superb author, and The Work Wives once again showcases Rachael Johns as the talented author that we have come to know and trust. Five stars! Alison, QLD, 5 Stars
I loved this book. It was such an easy reading book and quite addictive once I started. I laughed out loud so many times and also went through the rollercoaster of emotions. I will be recommending this book to all my friends. Samara, QLD, 5 Stars
I loved this book from the first chapter and found it nearly impossible to tear myself away. Rachael has developed all her characters beautifully, which makes them more real and relatable. Debra and her work wife Quinn became very dear to me, as did Debra’s daughter Ramona. Best friends supporting each other at work, navigating the dramas of everyday life such as online dating, single parenting and the associated challenges of a daughter starting a new school. I totally related to all of this as I have been with my own Work Wives for 17 years and we’ve been through so much together. We are friends outside of work as well and, like Debra and Quinn, would do anything for each other. Ramona’s school dramas were heartbreakingly real, and the advice provided on how to handle the situation was spot on. I truly didn’t want this story to end and would absolutely love to see a sequel so we can find out what happens next for Debra, Quinn and Ramona. Thank you to Better Reading for the ARC copy of The Work Wives. Maree, QLD, 5 Stars
This beautiful novels tells a story of friendship and motherhood. The well-depicted characters navigate modern day issues such a bullying and search of identity. The author’s style is easy to read yet compelling, I thoroughly enjoyed the book even if it’s maybe not a genre I normally go for. Marjolaine, WA, 5 Stars
I read The Work Wives over a couple of days because the story was captivating. Two totally opposite personalities are the best of friends, both in the office, and out, but Deb doesn’t share everything with her work wife Quinn. Whilst their relationship is central to the novel, the intrigue of Deb’s daughter is what keeps the reader invested in turning the pages. I found the novel fast paced and a jostling ride in a bid to discover the truth of deb’s daughter Ramona’s existence, which takes you on a path of no return once an exciting new line of characters are introduced. I’ve enjoyed all of Rachael John’s novels and The Work Wives is a tapestry of colour, warmth and intrigue. Another best seller for sure. Sharon, QLD, 5 Stars
How could I not have read any books by Rachael Johns before?! I loved this book! It was exactly what I needed. Light but interesting with a little bit of suspense, romance and mystery all thrown in. The Work Wives was a book I didn’t want to put down. It was an easy read and I wanted to see what was happening next for each of the characters. Each one was complex and flawed but loving at the same time. I was able to resonate with some of the day-to-day components of Debra and Quinn and really understand how important it is to have someone at work that gets you and that you can confide in. Both work wives were relatable, and it was easy to see parts of ourselves or those close to us in both of them. This story really shows the power of true friendships as Debra and Quinn work their way through their complex histories, their desire to be good humans while also craving love and support. Now that I have discovered this fantastic Australian author I will be adding her other books to my to-read pile immediately. Michelle, TAS, 5 Stars
What a powerful and relatable book. As a mother myself, there is nothing like the love and nurture a mother can give to her daughter. I could absolutely relate to Deb’s love and protectiveness of Ramona. The strength she showed after a lifetime of emotional abuse was admirable, and the connection they had gave me goosebumps. What a wonderful read. Kylie, SA, 5 Stars
Rachael has done it again with this superb book. The Work Wives explores the relationships that women have as they navigate our very modern day life and the added challenges of technology, online dating and social media. I loved the emotional journey that Rachael takes the reader on through these characters, the historical mystery and drama and the overall theme of love, commitment and support we need to have for each other as women and family. The Work Wives kept me engaged from cover to cover. I would love to read more of the journey of these lovable mainly female characters in this book. Rachael writes this story with so much heart and realism. I loved it. Helen, NSW, 5 Stars
I recently received an ARC copy of The work wives by Rachael Johns thanks to Better reading. Like all her books it is an easy read that’s totally relatable and delves into current relevant life situations. We tend to spend much more time at work these days than with our own families so we end up being work wives or husbands as we’re drawn to like minded souls whom we can divulge all our worries and secrets. Some we can’t even share with our nearest and dearest. Throw into the mix social media, online dating and ancestry testing kits and it creates an exhilarating but fraught lifestyle not seen in the past. The book exposes human frailties and insecurities and the need to tread carefully in this overexposed lifestyle we choose to live in. There is an interesting twist further on in the book which was unexpected but exciting. I really enjoyed reading about people who’s lives are less than perfect but they surround themselves with great people. Another fantastic book by Rachael Johns. Janet, NSW, 5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this Rachel Johns novel, she never disappoints. I thought I knew where the storyline was heading until one jawdropping twist. Rachel writes such complex believable female characters that stay with you long after you’ve finished the book. I’m eagerly awaiting her next novel. Trudy, SA, 5 Stars
I had never read any of Rachael Johns’ books before receiving The Work Wives, but I am now eagerly gathering her previous novels. I absolutely loved The Work Wives! It was a very easy read but it had it all – romance, mystery and thriller. The three central characters were very appealing and believable and I liked how the story was written from each of their different perspectives. The novel tackled very topical issues which were explored in a sensitive and thought provoking way. I constantly asked myself what would I have done? It was a real page turner and I enjoyed the twist at the end which was totally unexpected. Highly recommended. Debra, QLD, 5 Stars
What a fantastic book. Could not put it down. The character Ramona reminds me of a younger me with all the dramas of first loves and school. I love how we get the perspective from Quinn and Debra. A delightful book that puts a smile on your face. Lorraine, VIC, 5 Stars
Debra and Quinn work for the same company, and have a great relationship outside of work. Deb has a daughter Ramona, and secrets she has kept from both her friend and her daughter. Secrets have a nasty way of catching up with you when you least expect them too. That is just the case with “The Work Wives” an enjoyable read from start to finish. A book I didn’t want to put down. Glenys, NSW, 5 Stars
Two women, one daughter support and encourage each other as they make new friends, new frenemies, new partners and new opportunities. Where would we be without our work wives – the debriefs, the laughs, the dramas and the stories? This book celebrates them all. Lee, ACT, 5 Stars
This is an excellent contemporary novel from an experienced author with a good eye for relationships, particularly female friendship. Johns balances multiple perspectives, and gives us a well rounded understanding of each character. You’ll likely empathise with all three. Despite Debra and Ramona’s clashes, we can see both sides; neither is entirely wrong or necessarily unreasonable. Quinn is at a life stage that sits more or less between them. While she doesn’t provide a bridge between them, she does provide a different perspective. The lives and stories of the three women are strongly interwoven. Connections are believable and well drawn, as are both the points of conflict and agreement between the characters. Johns canvasses a good deal of ground on the subject of modern relationships. It’s realistic but not cynical, and there’s an underlying optimism that many readers will find attractive. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed the novel. Johns has an easy writing style which also makes for easy reading. Most of the plotting is well done, the characters are strong, and there’s emotional substance to the novel. I recommend this to readers interested in strong, realistic contemporary novels about the emotional lives of women. Lorraine, ACT, 5 Stars
The Work Wives is the story of Deb, her work wife Quinn, and her teenage daughter Ramona. Deb is happy with her quiet life as a single mother to Ramona even though her job is not the fulfilling career in psychology that she dreamed of. Her work life is made bearable by work wife Quinn. Quinn, meanwhile, is always on the lookout for Mr. Right. What happens when their roles are reversed? And what deep dark secrets is Deb hiding? This is a great story about love and friendship with lots of twists and turns that will keep you intrigued until the end. This book made me laugh out loud and shed a few tears – I loved it! Anne, VIC, 5 Stars
Rachael Johns The Work Wives is a novel with the lot, friendship, romance, complicated family dynamics and a suspenseful twist. I really enjoyed getting to know Debra, Quinn and Ramona, and delving into their individual lives, loves and inner struggles, as well as their collective story. I found their characters interesting and saw pieces of myself in each of them. Some of the characters traits and plot twists did feel slightly cliche, but this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that I breezed through in a few evenings. Hayley, VIC, 5 Stars
I read this in just over a day as I couldn’t put it down. I loved getting to know the main characters Debra, Quinn & Ramona and their personality traits and life issues. We all know someone like them or are even like them ourselves so it is a very relatable story. Yes, there is a time when big secrets are necessary. I especially like Ramona’s relationship with her mother. I enjoyed the layout of the book and found it easy to follow. I enjoyed seeing how Ramona finally tackled the problems with teenage/school relationships and learnt a little about herself along the way. A thoroughly enjoyable read. Tracey, NSW, 5 Stars
The Work Wives is a wonderful ‘life-lit’ contemporary novel which encompasses many stories. I actually read all 500 pages in one day, because, it was that entertaining and engaging! Rachael Johns writes with a signature style that immediately draws you into the mystery in her storytelling. You can’t get a more well versed literature style than that which is written by an English teacher! The story of Deb, the mum of Ramona, and her work bestie, Quinn the social media employee of Energy Co – a sports drink company, and their unfolding complication of a new male sales director that one cannot stand to see again, and her bestie blindly attracted to him. What a story! There are increasingly urgent nuggets of information and sub-stories coming, but I am not dropping a spoiler. What an enjoyable story this was. Will procure more of Rachael’s works, she is THAT GOOD! Thanks Better Reading! Preeya, QLD, 5 Stars
The Work Wives by Rachael Johns Although Quinn and Deb are complete opposites they are best friends, both in and out of work. They are there for each other with a coffee and a shoulder to lean on, but how well do they really know each other? Deb has sworn off men while she raises a teenage daughter on her own. Quinn obsesses over finding the right man through dating apps. However, when a new male worker begins at their workplace he brings complications for the friends, and secrets kept hidden for years come to light and threaten to destroy their friendship. Rachael Johns has once again delivered a story with warm, likeable characters struggling with modern day issues. This book will grab you from the start and drag you through a range of emotions until reaching its satisfying conclusion. With elements of mystery, drama, romance and relationship issues what more could a reader want? If you are a Rachael Johns’ fan you will love The Work Wives, and if not, after reading this one you will be. Patricia, QLD, 5 Stars
The Work Wives was a thoroughly enjoyable read. With a fast-paced, witty storyline and vibrant, well-developed characters, for its reasonably long page count, it felt like a much shorter novel. I particularly enjoyed John’s decision to tell the story from the three different perspectives – Debra, Ramona and Quinn. I also think she did an excellent job of dealing with the sensitive issue of domestic violence. For a generally light-hearted novel, the book did well to accurately and honestly convey the victim’s voice. The unusual balance of humour alongside such a hefty topic was interesting, but John’s handled it with a deft touch. Equal parts chick-lit, romance, mystery and drama I highly recommend this book! Penelope, QLD, 5 Stars
Loved reading this book! I felt connected to the characters and enjoyed the pace of the book. Kept me engaged in the lives of Debra, Quinn and Ramona throughout. If you enjoy authors such as Sally Hepworth or Liane Moriarty, you’ll enjoy this too. An enjoyable read, perfect for a couple of chapters before bed or a long plane flight where you just want to relax! Jane, VIC, 5 Stars
Rachael Johns doesn’t disappoint with her latest book, The Work Wives. She is able to talk about friendships and family relationships in a way that evokes the full range of emotions in the reader, from laughter to tears and everything in between. This offering is based around a close work relationship which encourages Quinn and Deb and Deb’s teenage daughter, Ramona, to be open to sharing experiences and secrets which, after many twists and turns, ultimately lead to stronger family connections and an extended ‘family’ of friends. The issues investigated through the characters are relatable and of contemporary interest. An easy and unputdownable read. Annette, SA, 5 Stars
I loved this book. So much so that I read it in a day as I couldn’t put it down. Rachael created loveable characters and wove so many modern issues into this story from teenage issues to the difficulty singles face meeting people. I love relationship stories. What makes people tick. How their childhood affects them. The decisions they make. This book had it all in spades. I loved the two main characters Quinn and Deb and was sorry when I finished the book. I felt I lost two friends. I am going to pass it on to my single mother daughter. There was a lot in the story that resonates with her experiences. A jolly good read. Joy, VIC, 5 Stars
The Work Wives by Rachael Johns was an enjoyable read. Her characters were believable and the story covered work, life, and family balance that we can all relate to. It had both funny and sad moments, and kept your interest all the way through. Fay, VIC, 5 Stars
Do you have a work bestie? Debra and Quinn connected over a copy machine incident at work and have become friends. Debra is a single mom who dedicates her private time to raising her teenage daughter. Quinn is also single but addicted to dating apps and finding THE ONE. The arrival of the new Head of Sales immediately raises their adrenalin level but for very different reasons. While one looks at the future, the other one is confronted with her past. I loved that as a third voice we get to know Ramona, Debra’s daughter. She has her own challenges when starting a new school. As the story progresses everything gets more entwined and without giving away details, I want to add that I loved the little touch of a thriller to the twist and turns. If a tiny voice inside myself was worried that this would be too much of a chick flick for my personal liking, it was squashed very soon. It’s not an office romance story but something more. The Book Club questions in the end even challenge you to wonder if the title suits the book or should have been different. And now I am left wondering if Rachael Johns is maybe toying with the idea of writing a crime novel sometime. This was my first novel by her but not the last one. Thank you for sending me a copy ahead of the publication day. Sabine, NSW, 5 Stars
In the intricate tapestry of office dynamics and interpersonal relationships explored in “The Work Wives” by Rachael Johns, parallels can be drawn to Da-Com’s commitment to providing cutting-edge office technology solutions and exceptional service in Missouri and Illinois. Just as each company possesses unique business processes, Da-Com endeavors to offer clients personalized action plans tailored to their needs and budgets. Establishing enduring and meaningful relationships with local enterprises, Da-Com mirrors the essence of the novel, contributing to the flourishing tapestry of the community. The narrative of “The Work Wives” resonates with Da-Com’s vision of fostering long-term connections and aiding communal prosperity.