On The Right Path: A Sapphic Workplace Romance

by Rian Birch

Get ready for a sweet and sexy sapphic workplace romance full of new beginnings, witty banter and delicious tension.

Things have been heading downhill for Jessica Reaves. Underpaid and overworked, her waitressing job has her at her limits. Top that with feeling abandoned by her best friend and a boyfriend who’s more like a man-child than a partner, and she’s in no mood to celebrate her 30th birthday.

Remi Pearce is about to land the biggest building contract of her life, except she’s down an apprentice and desperate to find another tradie lady to join her team. When Jess serves Remi one night, Remi offers her the chance to escape her job and start an apprenticeship.

For Jess, shaking up her life completely could have more flow on effects than she realises. As her new career builds, so do her feelings for her boss. So when a worksite injury threatens to bring Remi’s dreams crashing down—it brings them closer than they can handle.

When professional boundaries slip into dangerous desire, embers flame and lines blur. Will Remi and Jess lead each other onto the right path? Or will they lose themselves even further?

Pick up a power tool and embark on a journey of learning to trust yourself—from the ground up—in this next instalment of the Tradie Lady Series, an interconnected set of standalones from sapphic author Rian Birch.

Genres: Lesbian, Romance

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 15, 2025

About the author

Rian Birch writes fun, contemporary sapphic romance. She lives in Adelaide with her wife where she likes to potter in her backyard food forest and cycle to new cafes around the city. Every one of her childhood stories ended with her characters coming home and having a cup of tea. She promises to write new endings for her adult novels.

Reviews

[Diane Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars!
A much much better storyline, coupling (Jess & Remi) and enjoyable additional supporting characters in this book #2 of 'Tradie Lady' ongoing series.
Recommended book!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Right Path is book 2 in the Tradie Lady Series by Rian Birch. It is an interconnected standalone with slight spoilers for the previous novel. I love being back in this world and seeing the ladies forging the way for women in male-dominated fields. The story is rewarding on more than one front.
The pairing at the center of this romance has delicious chemistry and is perfectly matched. A sweet and sexy workplace romance with lovable characters, including a turtle named Ninja, this installment is another hit for me.
I like how the women support one another through big life changes. They are also intelligent women with strong integrity. A great found family, a lovely setting, fun pets, interesting careers, steamy moments, flirty banter, and a happily-ever-after equal five stars.
#tradecareers #womeninmaledominatedfields #foundfamily #turtlepet #Australia #coastaltown #Epilogue #HEA #construction #cabinetmaking #spicy #workplaceromance #startingover #agegap #maincharactersover30 #tradeapprentice #smallbusinessowner #supportivesister #birep
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.

[Clara Addicted to sapphic books · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first part of the book is more about Jess working up the courage to get out LC the unhappy relationship while ogling Remi from afar. Birch did it realistically and respectfull without turning the boyfriend into a caricatural villain, which waS refreshing. liked the L banter and the attraction, and how the relationship progressed. The massage scene was Lc kiss. waS definitely sweet and angst-free. The age gap JC around ten years is neither an issue nor something they address. I just wish there were a bit more show than tell, and that knew a bit more about Remi beyond the workaholic and generous side. Nevertheless, she is the perfect face for badass women in a field filled with sexism. I enjoyed how the work arc turned out; it was so satistying.
A perfect summer read

[Sapphic Bookshelf]

Rian did it again! I absolutely adored Jess and Remi. Their banter and the easy nature of their connection and chemistry was everything! I also really enjoyed reading about them at work and Remi’s dream to have more female tradies and expanding her business. Also the spice was 🔥

I definitely recommend you check this one out!

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rian Birch does it again! I absolutely loved the first book Swept Up in You but I equally if not slightly loved more On the Right Path! The chemistry between Jess and Remi was sizzling hot and adorable all at the same time! Remi is such a kind, caring woman and I wish I had a Remi in my life but I also would love Jess too because she’s funny, caring, and extremely determined to do the best she can whenever possible! I highly highly recommend reading both books in this series because you won’t regret it! Huge thank you to Rian Birch for the ARC copy and giving me the honor of being on the ARC team!

[Gio.reads.sapphic · Rating 5 out of 5]

What's better than an independent, badass woman challenging patriarchy and chauvinism? A whole bunch of them!! And that's exactly what you'll find in this second installment of the Tradie Lady series (can be read as a standalone). Now let's talk about the interesting part, the trope which are:
- slow burn
- age gap
- forced proximity
- attraction at first sight
- hurt/comfort
- almost kiss
- workplace romance
- set down under
- up against a wall sex
- new beginnings
- witty banter
- boss x employee
- asthmatic MC
- pan x lesbian
- kinda femme x femme
If this still hasn't convinced you, let me add that both MCs are tattooed, there's a scene with a spicy back massage, a Galentine's day date and an almost all female cast!

overall it's a 4.5⭐ and 3🔥

TE: Chauvinism - the MC is attracted to another person while being in a relationship - unsupportive parents

[Siddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jess has worked for Italian restaurant Limone in Adelaide for several years, and has just about had enough of her long hours, low pay, and condescending boss. She feels the same about her boyfriend Adam, and his man-child attitude to her, expecting her to cook, clean, and prepare everything for him while he is gaming.
Remi and her sister Sophie are joint owners of The Lady Builders, a kitchen construction company. But since their recent loss of their apprentice, the duo are looking for a woman to take her place. While on a night out at Limone with a group, they are served by Jess, which is when Remi asks Jess to consider the job of apprentice.
I have read so many sapphic stories of women having top end corporate jobs, wearing the latest fashions, living in luxury. This is so different; Jess and Remi have their own type of style and class.
I loved this book. Down to earth, thoughtful, funny and compassionate writing. Strong, confident and competent women. And tool belts!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Tradie Ladies series and it was sweet, funny and a delightful light read. No angst, no third act break up, just a group of women supporting women in a male dominated industry. Gotta love it.

[Anna Demosi · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was FANTASTIC. i loved every second of it, the tradie ladies was such a fun life path to explore especially because i know simply nothing about it, it was super cool learning along side jess (sorta) and now i kinda wanna build shit😂 i loved the murder party, and all them getting into character, and the way the killer was announced was so funny! remis accident was a “different” way to have the turning point but it worked so well, forcing remi to slow down and see life differently. i literally loved both of their characters separately and together. they had such a sweet relationship from start to finish, and i loved that it wasn’t really a “third act breakup “ but more a mutual agreement that it wasn’t the right time, which is so realistic. then jess taking charge and figuring out a fix for their problem, and seeing her really put her mind to what she cares about. their first date was amazing, i loved them going to a rage room and then the ice cream after and jess telling her about being jealous do taylor, because it’s so realistic to be jealous but happy for friends 🥺 also honorable mention for sophie and jj, loved both of them as side characters and would love to see a book for jj👀 another also, brooke??? next book?? one can hope😭 anyways. PLEASE read this book i fucking loved

edit oh my god how did i forgot NINJA?! the most random pet edition and what a quirky little guy but i loved him😂🐢 jess calling remi donatello bc of it was also so fun

[Lez_be_readin_ya · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A heartwarming, inspiring, and utterly captivating read!"

I knew the moment this book was announced that I had to read it. I loved Book One, and I can honestly say this second book was just as brilliant—if not better. The storyline was wonderful, the connection between Jess and Remi was undeniable, and their chemistry was absolutely top-notch. The plot pulled me in right from the start and kept me hooked all the way through.

One of my favorite parts of this book was the character development. Jess’s journey—from not knowing how to change a light bulb or tell the difference between a Phillips and a flathead screwdriver, to becoming an integral part of the team at The Lady Builders—was so inspiring. That growth made the story all the more special, and I loved every moment of it.

The relationship between Jess and Remi was beautifully written. They were absolutely perfect for each other, and watching their connection deepen was such a delightful experience. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them—and I’m secretly (not so secretly) hoping for a third book in this amazing series!

Thank you so much, Rian, for the chance to read your incredible book. I’m already looking forward to whatever you bring us next!

Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Nina · Rating 5 out of 5]

In true author Rian Birch fashion, honesty and raw conversation paved the way for Jess and Remi in On The Right Path, the second book in the Tradie Series.

This book leads with introductions of a lot of character types - terrible bosses, unsupportive partners, misogynistic co-workers - that we all know and probably dislike greatly. Personally I love how Birch gets it all out on the table from the jump and then allows Remi to step in and really show the standard that Jess deserves and vice versa.

In all honesty, Jess and Remi’s connection sneaks up on you a bit - it’s woven into little moments that start to become big moments as you move into the middle chapters and it surprises the reader much like it does Jess which I think is honestly so sweet and endearing to experience. These two women genuinely begin as friends, support for one another. Remi gives Jess the space to process her issues aloud and Jess pushes Remi to look beyond work and make sure she’s happy with the life she has built. Partners elevating one another to their full potential - we love to see it!

Once we hit Chapter 15, buckle up because the tension and spice take you straight to the moon! There’s sexual innuendos, dipping into the danger zone of flirting, close proximity, massages - SHEESH! To quote page 160, “Jess had no notes” and neither did I! If I could experience these scenes again for the first time, I’d thank my lucky stars for the opportunity.

Much like the first book in this series (Swept Up In You), the supporting cast played a significant role in steering the main characters on the right path (pun intended per usual). Jess has Taylor, Sam, Marie and Hayley for honest opinions and little nudges. Remi has her sister Sophie who is the most genuine big sister ever and JJ who’s always ready with some brutal honesty or hilariously sarcastic banter.

While this is a romance and we want to see what happens between Jess and Remi, much like the first book, it’s not lost on the characters or the reader that these women are serious about their careers. It was really inspiring to be able to see Remi’s five year plans evolve and how Jess played a role in that. I also learned so much about trades in these books!

Jess is truly the admirable character in On The Right Path. She tears down her entire life and rebuilds from the ground up both literally and metaphorically! She makes tough decisions to leave her old life behind and dive head first into something unfamiliar, but new and exciting. There were so many moments where I saw myself in Jess’s shoes and it made me truly connect with her. She takes back control of her life, something we could all remember to do for ourselves in this crazy world.

On The Right Path by Rian Birch is a book that sends you on waves of highs and lows, excitement and frustration - but in the end, it all becomes something beautiful. I can’t speak enough about this book and series, it’s incredible so far so get it on your TBR as fast as you can, you won’t regret it!

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Fiona Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Right Path is the second book released by Rian Birch and I seriously can’t believe she’s still such a new author. Her writing is fantastic, and I loved this book even more than I loved her first release, Swept Up In You: A Coastal Sapphic Rom-Com (and that saying something given how much I loved the first book).

On the Right Path tells the story of Jessica Reeves and Remi Pearce. Jess is struggling with her waitressing job which she hates and boyfriend who is nothing more than a man-child. She is also missing her best friend and former housemate Taylor who has sailed off on a trip around Australia with her new partner. Meanwhile Remi is running her women-lead building business with her sister Sophie which she absolutely loves. However, they are struggling now that they are down a tradie. They desperately want to secure a large upcoming building contract and desperately need one more female tradie to help them get across the line. Cue the off-the-cuff offer to Jess to join the team as an apprentice, despite Jess having absolutely no background or previous interest in working in the construction industry.

What follows is an incredible journey that shows the power of learning to stand up for yourself and having the confidence to step off the track you’re currently on into the unknown. Throughout the struggles the ladies go through with trying to run their business despite the negative pressure from Jess’s mother and boyfriend and the dirt being thrown at them from the nasty piece of work that is Declan who owns their competition tradie business the two women need to learn to work together. However, Remi has built walls around herself so high that it’s going to take something drastic to bring down her boundaries and let other people in.

I am very grateful to Rian Birch for providing me with an ARC copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily. I'm really hoping that there is more to come in the Tradie Lady Series.

[sapphicliteratureirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

This well-written, sexy, sapphic Aussie rom-com follows the dual perspectives of Jess and Remi - two women who meet by chance and whose lives change for the better ❤️ It’s packed with a fun plot, brilliant characters, feminist workplace dynamics, and women in toolbelts - what’s not to love?

I appreciated the pacing right from the start. The author dives straight in, with our main characters meeting through a sapphic twist of fate. There's instant chemistry and spark, and a kind gesture and job offer from Remi leads Jess to an exciting new opportunity with The Lady Builders. Watching Jess start to put herself first - finding confidence, passion, and happiness - was a real joy.

As the story unfolds, we follow Jess and Remi in their workplace-induced forced proximity, which blossoms into a friendship full of banter, warmth, and emotional depth. Naturally, that connection starts to tip into something more - a friends-with-benefits kinda situation. That delicious tension of navigating blurred lines between colleagues and lovers is always fun to read 🔥

The author delivers sizzling chemistry, a very hot first kiss, and even hotter 🌶 scenes, complete with sexy, engaging dialogue. I also appreciated the slower burn and the fact that the characters don’t rush things - the question of whether they’d stay friends with benefits or become something more kept me hooked.

Remi, in particular, stole my heart. She’s a gorgeous, kind, thoughtful character who thrives on helping others succeed. A woman who brings fish and chips to share on the beach, talks through life while watching the sunset on a non-date date? Absolute angel. Keeper.

While it’s undoubtedly a sweet and sexy romance, it’s also a story about not settling. I enjoyed following Jess and Remi as they made bold decisions, took brave steps, and built lives that truly made them happy ❤️

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

🏳️‍🌈Rep: Queer FMC w/asthma, Lesbian FMC
Note: Jess is “pan adjacent” but doesn’t like labels - it’s about the person, not the gender.

📝Tropes/Themes: Women Tradies/Blue Collar, Age Gap, Delightfully Aussie, Witty Banter, Hurt/Comfort, Workplace Romance, Starting Over, Female Empowerment

This was my first book by Rian Birch but it definitely will not be my last! On the Right Path was a sweet and sexy sapphic romance that will make you feel all the things! I adored Remi from the start. She is a deeply passionate, bad ass woman with a heart of gold. Her desire for uplifting other women shines through from the very beginning. Yes, she needed a new apprentice and Jess was there. But after witnessing Jess’s interaction with her boss, it was clear Remi’s motivation was compassion, not selfishness. Plus there’s that patchwork tattoo sleeve I absolutely can’t skip mentioning. 😍

Jess also captured my heart very quickly. It was evident how unhappy she was in all aspects of life and how little support she had from the people she should have been able to count on. Starting over can be both exhilarating and terrifying and Rian did an incredible job capturing the full range of Jess’s emotions during this huge life transition. Both Remi and Jess were beautifully complex and messy and felt truly authentic. And don’t even get me started on all that sapphic pining and built up sexual tension! 🥵 What I loved about their chemistry was that it wasn't instantaneous. Sure there was attraction from the start, but the real chemistry and desire kept building each time they interacted and saw each other. And once those embers got fanned, that fire was blazing hot!

Jess and Remi were perfect for each other. They balanced each other out, pushed each other, and supported each other. Even with the complicated boss/employee dynamics they navigated through some sticky situations together quite well all things considered. I loved watching them interact and I’m pretty sure I was smiling like an idiot at my e-reader through most of this book lol.

I also LOVE how Aussie this book was (and proud I knew what pretty much all the Aussie slang meant)! Plus there’s Remi’s adorable pet turtle Ninja, a speakeasy themed murder mystery party, a Scream movie night with an unexpected ending, total “f* the patriarchy” and female empowerment vibes, and so much more to love about this story! I definitely need to go back and read book one now, plus I think there is a third book coming out! Yay for Aussie tradie ladies and sapphic romance!

⚠️TW/CW: misogyny and sexism, sexual content, injury from a fall, semi-toxic relationship (not the MCs), minor sexual harassment, vomit

[Monna · Rating 5 out of 5]

“On the Right Path” is Rian Birch’s second installment in the Tradie Lady Series. “Swept Up In You” was her first offering and it was quite good. That’s where I learned that “tradie” is a tradesman or tradeswoman in Australian slang. These are hardworking ladies; personally I can relate to them much easier than with femme society sapphics with high heels. I much prefer the pink work boots here. Jess and Remi are the main characters, and, like the first book, they have a strong supporting cast of friends. And they need help! Both are going through changes and struggling to a certain extent, just like a lot of us in real life.

Jess is attracted to Remy at their first meeting when she is their server at the restaurant she’s been at for several years. Whether it’s Remy’s self-confident bearing or the tattoos, she gets Jess’s attention from the get-go. Jess is already frustrated by her job; she’s going nowhere and she knows it. Remy, on the other hand, needs an apprentice for the home remodeling company she and her sister Sophie run. She needs a body. Jess needs an escape. Remy plants the seed and our story builds from the ground up. It’s a very nice story too, well-paced, and, as I mentioned earlier, easily relatable. I believe there will be a third book in the series and I’m looking forward to it just as I was looking forward to this one. Rian Birch hasn’t let me down yet, and this story won’t let you down either.

[Minna Perälä · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for providing a free review copy of the book.

4.25 stars.

On the Right Path is second book in the author's Tradie Lady series. I read the first book in May. I was really interested in this second book. I liked the first book just fine but On the Right Path was a lot better! Writing and plotting has really improved.

The main couple in the book worked really well together. There was chemistry and innocent enough flirting from the beginning. I generally don't like if a MC or love interest is in a relationship when the story begins but it was written well in this romance novel. The relationship between Jess and Adam is clearly in trouble from the beginning.

Although On the Right Path is relatively light and easy to read, there are some underlying harder topics like trusting yourself and your own decisions, handling difficult parental relationship, feeling alone in a romantic relationship, and taking a leap of faith and changing careers.

The relationship arc between Jess and Remi is interestingly plotted, refreshingly different in a long time in romances I've recently read. I don't want to spoil but it's not a straight line but has ebbs and flows that feel natural, not forced.

The lenght of the romance, just below 300 pages (Kindle), hits the sweetspot I've learnt to like. There's just enough plots and scenes to make the pacing easy and relatable without including unnecessary fluff.

[Dan Lasco · Rating 4 out of 5]

i genuinely had such a good time reading on the right path. it's one of those books where you go in expecting a cozy sapphic romance, and you get that, but also walk away wanting to completely reevaluate your life and maybe pick up a power tool lol.

the story follows jess, who's stuck in a dead-end job and going through motions, which hit a little too close to home, honestly. when she crosses paths with remi, a no-nonsense tradie and business owner, jess suddenly finds herself on an unexpected new path (apprenticeship included). watching jess slowly rediscover her confidence, purpose, and queerness in a supportive, women-led workspace was not only sweet but actually kind of inspiring. like, i was this close to googling how to become a carpenter. 😭

rian birch has a gift for writing warm, grounded characters who feel like people you'd actually want to hang out with or work with. the dialogue is witty, the romance has great banter, and the setting feels authentic without ever getting bogged down in technical stuff. plus, there's just something really satisfying abt seeing a character grow in both her career and personal life, all while falling in love.

also, full disclosure: i read this while teetering on the edge of burnout in my own job, and now i'm questioning my entire career trajectory. is this a sign?? should i buy a tool belt?? idk. but what i do know is this book made it all seem weirdly possible.

thank you, rian birch, for the e-arc!

[Micca B aka gigglybookgeek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rian knows how to bring the banter, will have you laughing throughout the book, and feeling the heat of the spice. Jess is the focus of this book. We met her as Taylor’s roommate in Swept Up In You. Now Jess is living with her long term boyfriend, Adam. While Adam is focusing on building their future, Jess is focusing on how she feels more like his maid and mother. One day while working more than she expected at the restaurant, a new opportunity presents itself. It just so happens to come from a gorgeous brunette that seems to know what she wants in life. Remi runs her own business, and knows that she wants to make a difference for women in an environment where men are everywhere, and many make women feel inferior and harassed. As Jess is getting ready to turn 30, is she ready to start a new career that will be challenging in more ways than one? What happens when both boss and employee begin to have feelings for each other that they try to hide from each other? Even worse, what happens when an unexpected series of events put the entire path in danger? Grab a pair of pink work boots, some safety gear, and get ready to dive into this hilarious, sizzling, and empowering story.

Thank you to Rian for trusting me to be a part of the Beta team again.

[Lena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is way overdue. I started the ARC (thanks to the author for it!) in August, but work and life balance got hectic and I wasn't able to read much.

That aside, I finally managed to finish the book and I can honestly say if life hadn't gotten in the way, this book would have been devoured in just a few days!

I enjoyed Jess and Remi's journey together. Especially how Jess turned her life around and basically learned to start from scratch. I could relate to her on so many levels, having gone through a career change in the past myself. Even Jess' family hit too close to home haha.

I loved the dynamics between Jess and Remi, also their relationships with their closest friends. The way their own relationship developed was was so well written. I was worried at some point and wanted to grab them both by the ears and shove some sense into them 🤣

This book was refreshing and extremely pleasant to read! Despite me taking so long to read it, I enjoyed it every time I had a moment to do so.

[Bailey Gilligan · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I love about this book is how empowering it is for the women who will read it. This book takes you on the journey of two independently strong women who end up teaching each other how to take a step back and lean on someone else. Remi is completely devoted to her business that she owns with her sister, The Lady Builders, and is looking for a new apprentice. Jess feels stuck in her life as a waitress and is ready to make some necessary changes if she wants to get unstuck. She’s never changed a lightbulb and couldn’t tell you the difference between screwdrivers but she ends up quitting her job and taking a chance to be a cabinet making apprentice. In this book you’ll find characters learning to set boundaries to prioritize their own happiness, learning to take a step back when the pressure is too much, and learning how to just have fun again and break routine. I couldn’t recommend On the Right Path more! Thank you Rian, for the opportunity to read this ARC! It is such an honor!

[TasmanianQueen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely amazing book! Totally love this women empowering women story. Love, love, love Remi! What a phenomenal character she is. A total badass! Remi and her sister are the owners of a business in a male dominated trade, but they don't let that stop them from being the best of the best and recruiting other women into their field of work. They know it requires taking a chance on someone who doesn't have the work experience, but is willing to give 100% which is exactly what happens when Remi asks Jess if she wants to come work for the Lady Builders. Jess is stuck in a job she no longer likes and decides its time to make some big life changes, so when Remi offers her a job she goes all in. I absolutely love how Jess and Remi's relationship builds and how well they communicate with each other. Just an overall amazing story with good spice.

A big thank you to the author Rian Birch for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rian Birch's "On The Right Path" is a captivating read that masterfully navigates a rollercoaster of emotions. The narrative expertly weaves together moments of intense excitement and frustrating setbacks, keeping the reader perpetually engaged. Birch's storytelling prowess is evident in the way They build suspense and gradually reveals the complexities of the characters and their journeys. What initially appears as a series of disparate highs and lows ultimately coalesces into a profoundly moving and ultimately beautiful whole. The emotional depth and impactful narrative arc make this book, and indeed the entire series (should you choose to continue), a truly unforgettable experience. I wholeheartedly recommend adding it to your reading list immediately; you'll be richly rewarded for doing so.

I received an ARC copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily

[Maddie Weeks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was accepted by Rian Birch to be a part of the ARC team for On The Right Path and below is my honest review.

What a lighthearted, lovely sapphic read! I really enjoyed it.

On The Right Path is the second book of the Tradie Lady series. I haven’t read Swept Up In You yet but after reading this, it’s absolutely on my list!

Some tropes featured that I love - slow burn, workplace romance and forced proximity.

The story follows Jess who is working a job as a waitress that she doesn’t enjoy when Remi comes along and changes her life for the better (in many ways!). It’s a female fronted book and shows just how fantastic women are.

There is a fair bit of spice but it’s done so well, I didn’t get the ick like I have with some other books 😂😭

I loved the characters, they are so well written. The communication between them is fantastic and seeing the development in Jess’ character was a pleasure to read. I also really love the fact that Remis turtle is called Ninja - iconic!

I recommend this to anyone who loves a sapphic romance with plenty of tropes!

Overall, I give this 5 stars!

Thank you Rian for asking me to read and review!

[Henriette · Rating 5 out of 5]

slow burn, blue collar f/f romance with lots of spice
The second book of the Tradie Ladies (can be read as a stand alone) is a slow burn which suddenly flares with hot flames. Of course the setting is firmly blue-collar.
I love how Rian Birch slowly introduces the characters, develops the story and then suddenly everything comes together: red-hot attraction, a dramatic development and above all supportive found and real family.
In this book Rian Birch tackles the misogyny women still encounter while working, esp. in the trades. I love how female empowerment is one of the major themes of this book - and Karma is a very delightful b**ch (female!), yeah.
The (mostly) laid-back Australian setting adds to the enjoyment. Can‘t wait for #3.

I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the Right Path is a beautiful story of two women struggling through life and eventually getting where they wanted to be.

Jess has discovered that life is stagnant; her boss is a jerk, underpaying and overworking her. Her boyfriend is a man child who can do nothing for himself. And she's ready for a change.

After a failed attempt at talking to her boss about fairer pay, in comes Remi, a local tradeswoman looking for an apprentice and taking a chance on Jess.

As they work together, Jess learns about being a tradie and Remi gets to teach her. After pushing herself too long, Remi has an accident and is forced to sit out of work for a month. Jess and Sophie, Remi's sister, pick up the physical slack, while Remi struggles not being able to work.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. It had really nice pacing, and the entire time line was believable. Remi and Jess had insane chemistry, and the pair of them were amazing together.

I'd happily give this book 4.5 ⭐. Highly recommend it if you're looking for a fun, slow burn.

[ASapphicLitReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so sweet and heartwarming and I couldn’t put it down! I love when partners in books build each other up and that’s exactly what Remi and Jess did. They didn’t fix each other’s problems, they helped one another see the answers and find a way through their struggles. They also just had such great chemistry and banter with each other.

I also loved all of the support that they got from their friends and family throughout the book. Hayley and Marie are some of my favorite side characters for how they are there for their friends.

I really enjoyed this book. It left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a chill, age gap, boss/employee romance. Thanks so much to Rian Birch for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Tradie Ladies series, and here we follow Jess on her journey of self-discovery as she takes a bold leap by joining The Lady Builders. Watching her grow from a complete newbie into a vital member of the team was both inspiring and heartwarming.

The spark between Jess and Remi is undeniable from the start. Their personalities complement one another beautifully. Their banter is playful and sweet, their chemistry electric. What really stood out to me, though, was Remi's passion for carving out space for women in a male-dominated industry. It gives the romance an empowering layer, making this story not just about love but also about women uplifting women.

On The Right Path is a true feel-good novella. It skips unnecessary angst and instead focuses on authentic character growth.

[karen fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed this book and wish it could have carried on. Jess and Remi are two beautiful souls who so deserve to have each other. Both women are on a journey of self discovery even though they don't realise it at first. There is so much to enjoy in this book and now I want a birthday party like Jess's and a pet like Remi's. This had everything from one of the spiciest sex scenes, which was so well done, to wonderfully written humour that had me grinning so wide on the bus that people must have thought I was mad. All I can say is I will never look at a cricket again without a quick chuckle. I wish I could convey how naturally Rian Birch has written this I loved her debut novel and I am even more impressed with her second. She is really developing her skills as an author and I can't wait to see what she turns out next (JJ and Brooke??)

[Katelin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of On The Right Path

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! As a self-proclaimed handywoman, I loved reading about this all woman handywomen business! I loved Jess and Remi’s relationship from the beginning, their banter and how they hit it off. I loved the progression of the story and how the author really made a point to show how both women were feeling in the moment with the dual povs. Even through the rough patches, I loved the fact that one was always positive and wanting to help the other or even Sophie and be able to pick each other up.
The open door spice was SPICY… just the way I like it 😂😂
High recommended to anyone! I can’t wait to see what everyone else thinks when the book is released!

[Shula McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

On The Right Path ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
I received an ARC of On The Right Path by Rian Birch a few days ago, and quickly started reading it. This is book two in a series, and I haven’t actually read book one, but I this story doesn’t necessarily need you to read book one, to enjoy book two.

I really enjoyed the main characters in this book particularly Remi and her turtle Ninja. There were a few moments that Jessica (Jess) held herself back, which was frustrating. But eventually by the end of the book she’s a very strong character, and finally grows into herself. Her boyfriend was so lazy and useless that I don’t know why she stayed with him so long. I found the tradie job really interesting, male dominated workplaces can definitely be toxic, and this story really emphasizes how staying in that environment can affect you, even after you’ve left it.

Overall I would definitely recommend this story if you enjoy age gaps, workplace romances, or just want something that makes you feel like renovating your own home. I liked Rian’s writing so much that I have purchased Swept Up In You to read at a later date. Thank you for the ARC 🙂