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The Patterson Girls
How can four sisters build the futures they so desperately want, when the past is reaching out to claim them? When the Patterson daughters return home to Meadow Brook to be with their father after their mother's death, they bring with them a world of complication and trouble. The eldest sister, obstetrician Madeleine, would rather be anywhere but her hometown, violinist Abigail has fled from her stellar career, while teacher Lucinda is struggling to have the children she and her husband so desperately want. The black sheep of the family, Charlie, feels her life as a barista and exercise instructor doesn't measure up to that of her gifted and successful sisters. Dealing with their bereft father who is determined to sell the family motel, their loves old and new and a series of troublesome decisions doesn't make life any easier, but when they go through their mother's possessions and uncover the shocking secret of an old family curse, they begin to question everything they thought they knew. A warm and wise novel about secrets revealed, finding your soulmate and the unique bond between sisters. - The Patterson Girls By Rachael Johns (Paperback)
512 pages, Paperback
First published September 17, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
August 20, 2019
They say the first year after losing somebody close to you is always the hardest and for sisters Madeleine, Abigail, Lucinda and Charlie they were about to find that out. They were all heading back to their childhood home to visit their dad for Christmas after losing their mother earlier on in the year. Their parents owned a hotel in the area, but it was now left up to their father to keep it operating.
It was not hard to see how much their father was grieving and the time had come for the family owned hotel business to be sold. Sorting through their mother's things was not an easy thing to do, but it had to be done. Whilst sorting the sisters came across something and that’s where the story begins to have twists and turns and leaves the sisters wondering if what they found was true or not.
This book was quite a chunky book at almost 500 pages, but I found it really didn’t take me that long to finish it which surprised me as I tend to shy away from chunky books. Another enjoyable and intriguing read from Aussie author Rachael Johns. Recommended.
It was not hard to see how much their father was grieving and the time had come for the family owned hotel business to be sold. Sorting through their mother's things was not an easy thing to do, but it had to be done. Whilst sorting the sisters came across something and that’s where the story begins to have twists and turns and leaves the sisters wondering if what they found was true or not.
This book was quite a chunky book at almost 500 pages, but I found it really didn’t take me that long to finish it which surprised me as I tend to shy away from chunky books. Another enjoyable and intriguing read from Aussie author Rachael Johns. Recommended.
September 7, 2015
The four Patterson sisters each headed to their childhood home for Christmas; the first Christmas since their mother had passed away unexpectedly six months previously. The small town of Meadow Brook in South Australia had many memories for the four, but with their parents owning the only motel in town, it meant their lives had always been interesting. Now their father was trying to run it all on his own – they weren’t sure how he would be coping.
Madeleine was an obstetrician in her mid-thirties, and the eldest; she lived and worked in the States. Abigail was playing violin in the orchestra and based in London, while Lucinda and her husband Joe lived in WA. Lucinda was a school teacher and she and Joe had been trying to start a family for some months with no success. Charlie was the youngest and lived and worked in Melbourne. She was different to her siblings; and always felt inferior as if she could never be as talented, clever or beautiful as they were.
The decision by their bereft dad to sell the motel meant the girls would need to go through their mother’s belongings; but the discovery of an old card covered in words referring to a “family curse” was the catalyst to a time of trouble; self-doubt and shock rose quickly in the sisters. As they struggled to keep the motel going and prepare it for sale, the chaos and torment which surrounded them all created confusion and heartache.
Was the curse real or was it just rubbish? The sensible Madeleine didn’t believe in curses – but then again… As the four sisters’ lives changed in ways they couldn’t believe or understand, they found the bond between them all strengthening once again. But what would their futures be? Could they have lives of happiness in the face of what was happening?
The Patterson Girls by Aussie author Rachael Johns is a move away from her usual romance novels, and is an enjoyable read. The intricate lives of four sisters and the individual issues and problems, plus heartache and familial love are well worked together. A great story of secrets, both old and new; plus a bond that can’t be broken – The Patterson Girls is easy to recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
Madeleine was an obstetrician in her mid-thirties, and the eldest; she lived and worked in the States. Abigail was playing violin in the orchestra and based in London, while Lucinda and her husband Joe lived in WA. Lucinda was a school teacher and she and Joe had been trying to start a family for some months with no success. Charlie was the youngest and lived and worked in Melbourne. She was different to her siblings; and always felt inferior as if she could never be as talented, clever or beautiful as they were.
The decision by their bereft dad to sell the motel meant the girls would need to go through their mother’s belongings; but the discovery of an old card covered in words referring to a “family curse” was the catalyst to a time of trouble; self-doubt and shock rose quickly in the sisters. As they struggled to keep the motel going and prepare it for sale, the chaos and torment which surrounded them all created confusion and heartache.
Was the curse real or was it just rubbish? The sensible Madeleine didn’t believe in curses – but then again… As the four sisters’ lives changed in ways they couldn’t believe or understand, they found the bond between them all strengthening once again. But what would their futures be? Could they have lives of happiness in the face of what was happening?
The Patterson Girls by Aussie author Rachael Johns is a move away from her usual romance novels, and is an enjoyable read. The intricate lives of four sisters and the individual issues and problems, plus heartache and familial love are well worked together. A great story of secrets, both old and new; plus a bond that can’t be broken – The Patterson Girls is easy to recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
December 6, 2015
Won an Advanced Reader Copy on Goodreads First Reads Giveaway
Thanks to Harlequin Books Australia & Rachael Johns.
4 sisters (Madeleine the Obstetrician who lives & works in the US, Lucinda a teacher who is desperately trying to start a family with her Husband Joe from Western Australia. Charlie who always believed herself the black sheep of the family from Melbourne & Abigail a violinist who plays in an orchestra in London) all come home to country South Australia to spend Xmas with their Dad. Their first Xmas since their Mum sadly died.
The story is told from the perspective of each sister in alternating chapters. & as you can imagine with 4 sisters, all very different with their own secrets, there is drama, laughter, tears & not to mention wine to be drunk. Then throw in the possibility of a family curse & things get even more interesting.
I really enjoyed this family drama/rural romance & loved all the sisters (especially Charlie) even with some of their faults & the other people in their life were great too (especially Aunt Mags & Mitch)
This is my first book by Rachael Johns & I know she is usually more straight Rural Romance which is a favourite genre of mine, so looking forward to reading more of her books :)
Thanks to Harlequin Books Australia & Rachael Johns.
4 sisters (Madeleine the Obstetrician who lives & works in the US, Lucinda a teacher who is desperately trying to start a family with her Husband Joe from Western Australia. Charlie who always believed herself the black sheep of the family from Melbourne & Abigail a violinist who plays in an orchestra in London) all come home to country South Australia to spend Xmas with their Dad. Their first Xmas since their Mum sadly died.
The story is told from the perspective of each sister in alternating chapters. & as you can imagine with 4 sisters, all very different with their own secrets, there is drama, laughter, tears & not to mention wine to be drunk. Then throw in the possibility of a family curse & things get even more interesting.
I really enjoyed this family drama/rural romance & loved all the sisters (especially Charlie) even with some of their faults & the other people in their life were great too (especially Aunt Mags & Mitch)
This is my first book by Rachael Johns & I know she is usually more straight Rural Romance which is a favourite genre of mine, so looking forward to reading more of her books :)
June 27, 2025
**Thank you to HQ Fiction for sending me a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review**
I've read many novels by this author but somehow not this one so I'm happy to tick it off my list. Because this is the 10th-year anniversary edition of this novel, there is an extra epilogue that has been added which is a pretty cool touch. The storyline focuses on four sisters: Madeleine, Abigail, Lucinda and Charlie. All have returned home together for the first Christmas since their mother died. While helping their dad they discover a secret family curse which makes them begin to question everything in their lives. Each sister has her own issues going on which makes the pages fly by and with the character perspectives swapping between all sisters, readers get a taste of all of the drama. The burgeoning romances for a couple of the sisters nicely offsets the more serious notes of the novel which includes grief and infertility/conceiving issues.
Overall: a great story that I'd be happy to recommend.
I've read many novels by this author but somehow not this one so I'm happy to tick it off my list. Because this is the 10th-year anniversary edition of this novel, there is an extra epilogue that has been added which is a pretty cool touch. The storyline focuses on four sisters: Madeleine, Abigail, Lucinda and Charlie. All have returned home together for the first Christmas since their mother died. While helping their dad they discover a secret family curse which makes them begin to question everything in their lives. Each sister has her own issues going on which makes the pages fly by and with the character perspectives swapping between all sisters, readers get a taste of all of the drama. The burgeoning romances for a couple of the sisters nicely offsets the more serious notes of the novel which includes grief and infertility/conceiving issues.
Overall: a great story that I'd be happy to recommend.
December 17, 2024
The Patterson Girls is Rachael Johns first foray into general contemporary fiction, though she doesn't stray far from her literary roots in rural romance.
The titular Patterson girls, obstetrician Madeleine, wife and teacher Lucy, professional violinist Abigail, and Charlotte, the self described under achiever, have come home to spend Christmas with their recently widowed father. Keenly feeling their mothers absence, none of them are surprised when he announces his plan to sell the family motel and willingly agree to help clear out their mothers things. As the sisters rummage through their mother's keepsakes, reminiscing over old photos, fashion and jewelry, their curiosity is piqued when they discover a reference to a Patterson curse. Wheedling the details from the reluctant Aunt Mags, the particulars of the curse stuns all four sisters, and becomes a catalyst that turns the Patterson's sisters lives upside down.
Told from the shifting third person perspectives of Madeleine, Lucy, Abigail and Charlotte, The Patterson Girls is a story of sisters, secrets, loss and love.
Vivid characterisation brings the personalities of the sisters to life. Each has distinct strengths and flaws, and are beset by their own personal challenges, from unrequited love to infertility. While I identified most closely with Charlotte, I also found Madeleine, Lucy and Abigail to be interesting and well rounded characters and I really enjoyed Johns skillful portrayal of their sisterly dynamic.
The plot blends domestic drama, romance and a hint of mystery. While it's clear from the outset that all of the sisters are struggling in one way or another, the revelation about the Patterson curse piles on the pressure, and provokes much of the drama that follows, particularly for Madeleine, Lucy and Abigail. Charlie is finally finding her feet when a twist in the tale threatens to shatter the happiness she has forged for herself. Meanwhile, romance proves to be troublesome for all of them. While Charlie's feelings grow for an old friend and Abigail meets the man of her dreams, Lucy's marriage is floundering, and Madeleine's love life grows increasingly complicated.
A well crafted, entertaining, contemporary novel with strong characters and an engaging story, The Patterson Girls should appeal to fans of Monica McIerney and Marian Keys.
The titular Patterson girls, obstetrician Madeleine, wife and teacher Lucy, professional violinist Abigail, and Charlotte, the self described under achiever, have come home to spend Christmas with their recently widowed father. Keenly feeling their mothers absence, none of them are surprised when he announces his plan to sell the family motel and willingly agree to help clear out their mothers things. As the sisters rummage through their mother's keepsakes, reminiscing over old photos, fashion and jewelry, their curiosity is piqued when they discover a reference to a Patterson curse. Wheedling the details from the reluctant Aunt Mags, the particulars of the curse stuns all four sisters, and becomes a catalyst that turns the Patterson's sisters lives upside down.
Told from the shifting third person perspectives of Madeleine, Lucy, Abigail and Charlotte, The Patterson Girls is a story of sisters, secrets, loss and love.
Vivid characterisation brings the personalities of the sisters to life. Each has distinct strengths and flaws, and are beset by their own personal challenges, from unrequited love to infertility. While I identified most closely with Charlotte, I also found Madeleine, Lucy and Abigail to be interesting and well rounded characters and I really enjoyed Johns skillful portrayal of their sisterly dynamic.
The plot blends domestic drama, romance and a hint of mystery. While it's clear from the outset that all of the sisters are struggling in one way or another, the revelation about the Patterson curse piles on the pressure, and provokes much of the drama that follows, particularly for Madeleine, Lucy and Abigail. Charlie is finally finding her feet when a twist in the tale threatens to shatter the happiness she has forged for herself. Meanwhile, romance proves to be troublesome for all of them. While Charlie's feelings grow for an old friend and Abigail meets the man of her dreams, Lucy's marriage is floundering, and Madeleine's love life grows increasingly complicated.
A well crafted, entertaining, contemporary novel with strong characters and an engaging story, The Patterson Girls should appeal to fans of Monica McIerney and Marian Keys.
October 1, 2015
3.5 stars. I'm not a romance reader. Review later.
November 30, 2015
It is the first Christmas since their mother died so Lucinda, Madeline, Abigail and Charlie all come home from various parts of the world and Australia to support their dad through the season and help out in the family motel at its busiest time. The reader soon learns that although the sisters all keep in touch with each, they have also each kept secrets from their siblings. These secrets are gradually revealed to each other as the story progresses; however the reader is privy to them from the start. I love it when I know a secret and hug it to myself gleefully which added to my enjoyment of the story; if more enjoyment was possible.
One aspect is not revealed to the readers though – the Patterson’s curse. Oh we are told what the curse is but is it real? And if it is, can it be removed? If the curse is real, then it has serious impact on the lives of all four women. As each sister takes it in turn to tell their personal story as well as the story of what is happening back at the family motel they start to look at their lives, their loves, and their struggles and start to question whether their current life, and loves, are what they really want.
The Patterson sisters are real, they just leap out of the pages at you, and each character has her own strengths, weaknesses and quirks. They are a real family unit of siblings, they fight each other, the laugh with each other and they cry together, then they fight some more. I could relate to all of them at one level or another, which really helped draw me into the story. The emotions are described incredibly – the laughter, the joy and even the despair. These sisters are not characters on the pages of a book – they live and breathe. THE PATTERSON GIRLS is one of Rachel John’s best books ever, and I know I keep writing that, but she is just going from strength to strength and always seems to press the right emotional buttons for me. And by emotional I mean yes I laughed, and yes I cried. There are some clever twists and turns, and each sister has a barrier to break down before they can find the happiness that has eluded them. The men in their lives are all very gorgeous as well – as are the support characters, Dad Sal and their crazy Aunt. Every facet of the story is well thought out and connects beautifully, not one unnecessary thread anywhere in the story.
I have been following Rachel Johns on Facebook as she wrote this book so the anticipation has been great – and she managed to feed out little hints of what might be in the book, idea’s and ‘what about this’ scenarios. She also keeps her fans in touch with the creative processes of character building of not just this book but all her current works by posting pictures of yummy men to see if her followers like them. Sometimes asking us all if we like our men with tattoos, with a shirt or without a shirt. Of course we are always willing to help her out with this!
You must read THE PATTERSON GIRLS, and then go and read all her other books.
With thanks to Harlequin MIRA and the author via Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
October 8, 2015
It’s always a little scary when a favourite author tries something new. Their previous books are familiar, you always know what you’re going to get and it’s going to be good! There’s always a little nervous anticipation diving in when a writer deviates from their previous work, but it’s an excited anticipation. It’s the unknown and if you’re lucky, it will be just as fabulous but in a different way.
With The Patterson Girls, Rachael Johns moves from rural romance to the broader women’s/contemporary fic genre and neatly ties in the stories of four sisters, all returning to spend their first Christmas at home with their recently widowed father. Their mother died unexpectedly and her absence is felt keenly by each of the Patterson daughters, as well as her husband. Two of the daughters, obstetrician Madeleine and violinist Abby now live overseas. The two other daughters, teacher Lucinda and yoga teacher Charlie also live interstate so it’s not often that they all return together to their family home.
I don’t have a sister and sometimes I lament that but sometimes I’m actually rather glad of it. I have a brother and we have a wonderful relationship, I couldn’t ask for a closer sibling. But I do enjoy reading about sisters, perhaps because for me, it’s the unknown, the different relationship that I’ve never experienced. I have sisters-in-law, and get on rather well with one of them but it’s not quite the same. I think the sister dynamic can be difficult to get right because four, very different grown up women are going to interact in many and varied ways. They will love each other and they will at times, hate each other too, or at least fight. In this novel, each of the sisters is a fully fleshed out personality with attributes and faults and their personalities do often clash in believable and yet also silly ways – just as people who have known each other all their lives would.
Each of the sisters has an issue in their personal life and after the Christmas holiday is over all four of them once again find themselves back at home. Each of the girls’ stories are incredibly interesting and I found that I had little trouble relating to almost all of the sisters at one point or another in the story. I understood Lucinda’s longing for a child and her frustration at her mother-in-law’s attitude. I also understood how her longing could become an obsession driving a wedge between her and her husband Joe. Charlie was a favourite character of mine and her story is an absolute page turner! I don’t want to say too much about it for fear of spoiling anything but the twist in the story that involves Charlie is amazing and very well orchestrated. It’s an emotional rollercoaster – for both the characters and the reader!
To be honest I’m not really one for believing in curses or anything like that so I did wonder how I would go with that part of the story but I think it’s presented in a way that you can understand why the sister’s would begin to really start to question it, especially Lucinda who is searching for an answer, any answer to a question. I found myself quite enjoying the revelation about the curse and how it played out. There was something about the way it was written and something about the way the girls slowly came to question whether or not it was just rubbish or if there could really be something to it and it might explain a few things that they have begun to question and worry over. Each of them react to the news about the curse, some of them do things that are quite out of character and some of these things (probably most of these things) end up getting them into problematic situations. It’s how these situations get resolved that make for wonderful reading as each of the sisters put their lives back together, take on new challenges and head in different directions from the ‘before’ time, when their mother was still alive. Even their father begins to embrace change and the chance to live again.
I really enjoyed The Patterson Girls and I’m sure it’ll bring Rachael Johns new admirers. For her old fans, there are times when she hasn’t strayed too far from the familiar – Charlie and Mitch’s story could’ve probably made a full length rural! But there are more intricate layers here and more main characters are handled expertly with none losing out in depth and time in the limelight. Luckily for me, The Patterson Girls is just as fabulous as Johns’ other books, just in a different way!
With The Patterson Girls, Rachael Johns moves from rural romance to the broader women’s/contemporary fic genre and neatly ties in the stories of four sisters, all returning to spend their first Christmas at home with their recently widowed father. Their mother died unexpectedly and her absence is felt keenly by each of the Patterson daughters, as well as her husband. Two of the daughters, obstetrician Madeleine and violinist Abby now live overseas. The two other daughters, teacher Lucinda and yoga teacher Charlie also live interstate so it’s not often that they all return together to their family home.
I don’t have a sister and sometimes I lament that but sometimes I’m actually rather glad of it. I have a brother and we have a wonderful relationship, I couldn’t ask for a closer sibling. But I do enjoy reading about sisters, perhaps because for me, it’s the unknown, the different relationship that I’ve never experienced. I have sisters-in-law, and get on rather well with one of them but it’s not quite the same. I think the sister dynamic can be difficult to get right because four, very different grown up women are going to interact in many and varied ways. They will love each other and they will at times, hate each other too, or at least fight. In this novel, each of the sisters is a fully fleshed out personality with attributes and faults and their personalities do often clash in believable and yet also silly ways – just as people who have known each other all their lives would.
Each of the sisters has an issue in their personal life and after the Christmas holiday is over all four of them once again find themselves back at home. Each of the girls’ stories are incredibly interesting and I found that I had little trouble relating to almost all of the sisters at one point or another in the story. I understood Lucinda’s longing for a child and her frustration at her mother-in-law’s attitude. I also understood how her longing could become an obsession driving a wedge between her and her husband Joe. Charlie was a favourite character of mine and her story is an absolute page turner! I don’t want to say too much about it for fear of spoiling anything but the twist in the story that involves Charlie is amazing and very well orchestrated. It’s an emotional rollercoaster – for both the characters and the reader!
To be honest I’m not really one for believing in curses or anything like that so I did wonder how I would go with that part of the story but I think it’s presented in a way that you can understand why the sister’s would begin to really start to question it, especially Lucinda who is searching for an answer, any answer to a question. I found myself quite enjoying the revelation about the curse and how it played out. There was something about the way it was written and something about the way the girls slowly came to question whether or not it was just rubbish or if there could really be something to it and it might explain a few things that they have begun to question and worry over. Each of them react to the news about the curse, some of them do things that are quite out of character and some of these things (probably most of these things) end up getting them into problematic situations. It’s how these situations get resolved that make for wonderful reading as each of the sisters put their lives back together, take on new challenges and head in different directions from the ‘before’ time, when their mother was still alive. Even their father begins to embrace change and the chance to live again.
I really enjoyed The Patterson Girls and I’m sure it’ll bring Rachael Johns new admirers. For her old fans, there are times when she hasn’t strayed too far from the familiar – Charlie and Mitch’s story could’ve probably made a full length rural! But there are more intricate layers here and more main characters are handled expertly with none losing out in depth and time in the limelight. Luckily for me, The Patterson Girls is just as fabulous as Johns’ other books, just in a different way!
December 19, 2015
Cannot speak more highly about this book. It's a departure from Rachael's usual rural style, and I loved it. It tells the story of the 4 Patterson sisters who return home to their Fathers motel for Christmas after the sudden death of their mother. The 4 girls are very different from each other, one a doctor, one a teacher, one a violinist and the other sister is a free spirit who dabbles in a number of occupations. I loved all their stories, and when they discover that generations ago their family was cursed this sets them all off on a paths of discovery about their lives. The author tells each story with skill and emotion, and when you think the story is going down a certain path, wham, there comes a red herring which I didn't see coming! The book ended in a satisfactory manner, and I believe there could easily be a sequel to find out what happens next. Thank you Rachael for a magnificent page-turner, and I hope this is the start of an additional genre for you to write about.
June 14, 2017
This was such an enjoyable read. With four sisters, there was certainly plenty of drama and much to find within each woman to relate to. What I really loved about this book though, was its realistic element. No one was perfect, people annoyed each other, they argued, they acted irrationally. Yet, they also loved, laughed, drank a lot of wine through their tears, and got on with it. Pretty much like real life. While this book drew me in and kept me reading for hours on end, I found myself deliberately putting it down, because the further I got through it, the less I wanted to reach the end. It was the sort of story, with the sort of characters, that you never get sick of. Truth be told, it's the sort of story that would be the perfect starting point for a new Aussie TV series. Well done Rachael Johns. I know you have a lot of rural romance fans, but I think you've nailed women's fiction as well! Look forward to reading more of your work in this genre.
October 4, 2015
The Patterson Girls was my treat for the evening. Such a fantastic story. I started just before dinner, fully intending on only reading a couple of chapters and it's past bedtime now! I didn't even notice the time passing:)
October 15, 2015
My View:
Engaging, entertaining, salacious; this narrative is a blend of many genres including romance, contemporary fiction, drama and a lot of family and relationship issues set in many locations including London, Baltimore, Perth, Melbourne and small town South Australia mixed with a glimpse of the trials and tribulations of long distance relationships in this era of the fly out work workforce.
I particular enjoyed the settings – it is always a joy to be able to identify an area that you are familiar with in a read and when Lucinda and Joe take their romantic trip to the South West of WA – Bunker Bay, I could picture the area clearly – and then I could not believe the coincidence – Rachael Johns has this couple stop for an ice-cream – in the exact location we stop for an ice cream when we do a trip from Perth to home – a road house between Bunbury and Busselton. How amazing. (I would love to have been researching this book, so many great locations).
This narrative is big on drama, big on issues (infertility being the binding issue, it is good to see this issue being aired in such an upfront way, it is a topic that needs more public airing). Themes regarding identity and family; obligations, ties, secrets, history and connections all play a part in this complex story.
Each sister has an opportunity to share their view point as they take turns in narrating. This is very much a character based plot and the different personalities are very well expressed and the connections and expectations within the family unit are ones we are all familiar with.
Overall an entertaining read that has much to offer the contemporary reader.
Engaging, entertaining, salacious; this narrative is a blend of many genres including romance, contemporary fiction, drama and a lot of family and relationship issues set in many locations including London, Baltimore, Perth, Melbourne and small town South Australia mixed with a glimpse of the trials and tribulations of long distance relationships in this era of the fly out work workforce.
I particular enjoyed the settings – it is always a joy to be able to identify an area that you are familiar with in a read and when Lucinda and Joe take their romantic trip to the South West of WA – Bunker Bay, I could picture the area clearly – and then I could not believe the coincidence – Rachael Johns has this couple stop for an ice-cream – in the exact location we stop for an ice cream when we do a trip from Perth to home – a road house between Bunbury and Busselton. How amazing. (I would love to have been researching this book, so many great locations).
This narrative is big on drama, big on issues (infertility being the binding issue, it is good to see this issue being aired in such an upfront way, it is a topic that needs more public airing). Themes regarding identity and family; obligations, ties, secrets, history and connections all play a part in this complex story.
Each sister has an opportunity to share their view point as they take turns in narrating. This is very much a character based plot and the different personalities are very well expressed and the connections and expectations within the family unit are ones we are all familiar with.
Overall an entertaining read that has much to offer the contemporary reader.
November 15, 2018
Popular Australian author Rachael Johns is best known for her rural romance and farm-lit novels, however The Patterson Girls is her first foray into a genre she herself calls 'contemporary life lit'.
Basically it's a story about four sisters, who grew up in a motel run by the family in a small town 3.5 hours from Adelaide, near Port Augusta.
Grieving the loss of their mother six months earlier, each sister has their own unique personality, one living in London, one in USA, one in Melbourne and the other in Perth.
I think my favourite part of The Patterson Girls was the fact they all grew up in a motel. I grew up in a small town general store and could definitely relate to their upbringing. The motel in the novel has seen better times, and I was really hoping for a 'makeover.' This is one of my favourite sub-plots in a book, where a run down building is cleaned up and renovated. I won't spoil the story, but my needs were satisfied here as well.
The sisters aren't a cohesive and trusting unit in the beginning and their dynamics and personal troubles were interesting to discover. In fact, I found myself enjoying The Patterson Girls much more than I'd expected, having been initially concerned there might be too much romance. The ending was also satisfying and who doesn't love a family secret or a family curse?
My only reservations were that the sisters drank too much wine (oh well, no harm there right?) and I think the title should have been Patterson's Curse instead of The Patterson Girls.
* Copy courtesy of JAM PR *
Basically it's a story about four sisters, who grew up in a motel run by the family in a small town 3.5 hours from Adelaide, near Port Augusta.
Grieving the loss of their mother six months earlier, each sister has their own unique personality, one living in London, one in USA, one in Melbourne and the other in Perth.
I think my favourite part of The Patterson Girls was the fact they all grew up in a motel. I grew up in a small town general store and could definitely relate to their upbringing. The motel in the novel has seen better times, and I was really hoping for a 'makeover.' This is one of my favourite sub-plots in a book, where a run down building is cleaned up and renovated. I won't spoil the story, but my needs were satisfied here as well.
The sisters aren't a cohesive and trusting unit in the beginning and their dynamics and personal troubles were interesting to discover. In fact, I found myself enjoying The Patterson Girls much more than I'd expected, having been initially concerned there might be too much romance. The ending was also satisfying and who doesn't love a family secret or a family curse?
My only reservations were that the sisters drank too much wine (oh well, no harm there right?) and I think the title should have been Patterson's Curse instead of The Patterson Girls.
* Copy courtesy of JAM PR *
December 10, 2016
I enjoyed reading the story of the four Patterson Girls, as well as coming to terms with the death of their mother as well as discovering a 'curse' that women in their family wouldn't be able to get pregnant.
In light of this, stories of the girls struggling to get pregnant were interesting, however I thought one of them was very selfish in her attempts.
The one thing I found hard was reading the sex scenes. It's just not something I enjoy reading about and they were a bit graphic for my taste and didn't really add much to the story, however the rest of the book was great.
My favourite character was Charlie.
There's an interesting twist at the end that adds to the drama, and everything was tied up nicely at the end.
In light of this, stories of the girls struggling to get pregnant were interesting, however I thought one of them was very selfish in her attempts.
The one thing I found hard was reading the sex scenes. It's just not something I enjoy reading about and they were a bit graphic for my taste and didn't really add much to the story, however the rest of the book was great.
My favourite character was Charlie.
There's an interesting twist at the end that adds to the drama, and everything was tied up nicely at the end.
November 2, 2015
Warning this book review is probably written by pregnancy hormones.Oh this book had high potential on my list, I bought it on a whim hoping I would love it enough to enjoy it and I thoroughly did up until the writing that reminded me so much of Monica McIinerney took a downfall. Let's just say if I wanted a Mills & Boon book I would of bought it! This book would of been perfection if it wasn't so vulgar in the middle. I was so disappointed and have not completed the book (rather I got fed up and threw it straight in the trash!) Let's leave the raunchy plots to the Outlander series please.
October 10, 2015
This book will break, reassemble and warm your heart. A powerful story of love, loss and family ties set in South Australia amongst a small town of memories and friendships. Perfect for a weekend away or travelling book. An easy read but by no means an easy book to put down. Loved all the characters who take part in the girls lives and came away feeling uplifted knowing that there are beautiful people living very normal lives in our everyday society. Well worth a read.
March 25, 2016
Loved this book. Especially the references to my local area... that is so cool, living between Busso and Bunbury and the characters take the same journey. Love all these strong female characters and it brings back the bond that only siblings can share.
August 25, 2024
It was a nice easy holiday read.
July 13, 2024
Great book set in South Australia. Few twists and turns but in the end family is always the most important thing to help get through life’s challenges!
March 3, 2025
Wonderful story of four sisters who come together for the first Christmas after their mothers death.
Each hiding their own problems.
Then a mysterious family hex is discovered and each sister makes it her mission to prove it wrong.
Really enjoyed this book.
Each hiding their own problems.
Then a mysterious family hex is discovered and each sister makes it her mission to prove it wrong.
Really enjoyed this book.
September 20, 2015
I’ve been itching to read Rachael Johns’ first book in the contemporary life lit genre (aka women’s fiction) for ages. Of course it was my luck when my mother took my copy and read it first! So while I did have to wait a little while longer to get to this book, it was definitely worth it. Being a West Aussie also came in handy last week when I was able to attend the launch for The Patterson Girls and hear Rachael speak, including reading a funny scene from the book. (There is something so cool about being able to read along while the author reads the words they wrote!)
But I know you aren’t reading this review to hear me fan girl. You want to know if this book is worth a read, right? I can tell you that it’s definitely worth the investment of your time and money. The Patterson Girls proves that Rachael Johns is a talented writer in any genre. If you love Monica McInerney, you will adore this story. It has the right balance of warmth, love and drama to make you fall in love with the four sisters (and/or their beaus).
The Patterson sisters are four very different girls, now scattered across the world. Madeleine is a respected obstetrician living in Baltimore with no time for love or family. Lucinda is a teacher and the only married sister, yet she has a deep fear that she won’t be able to conceive. Abigail is a talented violinist in London, focused on little but her music. Charlie is the self-described black sheep of the family – she doesn’t believe herself talented and she’s into alternative therapies. I found Charlie the easiest sister to warm to – she’s down to earth, warm and open. While she fears she’s not as ‘good’ as her sisters, she really has nothing to worry about because she’s the one I’d most likely want to be friends with! Madeleine was a little scary at the start – she tells it how it is rather bluntly, but as we found out more about her life in Baltimore she became more of a sympathetic character. Abigail (like the other sisters) had something to hide when she returned home for Christmas, but she was the most spontaneous and adaptable, if a little crazy. (And I think she had the best boyfriend too!) As for Lucinda, she was a bit desperate, whingy and selfish for me. I think that could be attributed to her ‘have-a-baby-NOW!’ fixation – she had a one track mind for a lot of the book which led to a deterioration in relationships. When the ‘real’ Lucinda shone through, she was rather sensible. I liked how the sisters were easily identifiable by their traits early on – I hate having to work out who’s who, but I didn’t have that issue in this book.
So the sisters all brought home their own issues, but they didn’t expect to leave the small town of Meadow Brook in South Australia with a more pressing issue. While going through their mum’s things, they found evidence of a family curse. Although everyone except Lucinda brushed it off initially, all the girls wanted to know more. Finding out as much as they could, they went their separate ways again. But each of them kept thinking about it and for three of them, it strongly affected their next steps in life. For Abigail, it started as a crazy plan to come home. But she fell in love… Madeleine was already secretly in love, but things turned a bit crazy as she set off to achieve her plan. Then things got really awkward. Lucinda’s life went haywire after finding out about the curse until it affected every waking moment. Charlie was the least concerned, moving on with her life in a new direction and finding happiness.
Is there romance? Of course, but it’s not the focus. The men are still super-hot (I like Abigail’s man, but I won’t divulge his name. I’ll just say that Rachael can make any name drool worthy). But there’s love of all types here – family and friends too. The girls have a great relationship with their auntie, and each other too when they’re not squabbling. The Patterson Girls demonstrates just how great sisterly bonds can be, at any stage of your life.
But oh! The twist! The twist was SO DAMN GOOD. It was potentially heart breaking and edge of your seat stuff. It took the emotion to a whole new level and turned everything I thought I knew about the Patterson girls on its head. Even though it was twisty-turny angsty, I think this was my favourite part of the book. Maybe I’m a character masochist, but…wow! Another example of what a brilliant writer Rachael Johns is.
While I’m happy to hear that Rachael will be continuing to write in the rural romance genre, I can’t wait for her next contemporary life lit book! A stellar read.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for the ARC. My review is honest.
But I know you aren’t reading this review to hear me fan girl. You want to know if this book is worth a read, right? I can tell you that it’s definitely worth the investment of your time and money. The Patterson Girls proves that Rachael Johns is a talented writer in any genre. If you love Monica McInerney, you will adore this story. It has the right balance of warmth, love and drama to make you fall in love with the four sisters (and/or their beaus).
The Patterson sisters are four very different girls, now scattered across the world. Madeleine is a respected obstetrician living in Baltimore with no time for love or family. Lucinda is a teacher and the only married sister, yet she has a deep fear that she won’t be able to conceive. Abigail is a talented violinist in London, focused on little but her music. Charlie is the self-described black sheep of the family – she doesn’t believe herself talented and she’s into alternative therapies. I found Charlie the easiest sister to warm to – she’s down to earth, warm and open. While she fears she’s not as ‘good’ as her sisters, she really has nothing to worry about because she’s the one I’d most likely want to be friends with! Madeleine was a little scary at the start – she tells it how it is rather bluntly, but as we found out more about her life in Baltimore she became more of a sympathetic character. Abigail (like the other sisters) had something to hide when she returned home for Christmas, but she was the most spontaneous and adaptable, if a little crazy. (And I think she had the best boyfriend too!) As for Lucinda, she was a bit desperate, whingy and selfish for me. I think that could be attributed to her ‘have-a-baby-NOW!’ fixation – she had a one track mind for a lot of the book which led to a deterioration in relationships. When the ‘real’ Lucinda shone through, she was rather sensible. I liked how the sisters were easily identifiable by their traits early on – I hate having to work out who’s who, but I didn’t have that issue in this book.
So the sisters all brought home their own issues, but they didn’t expect to leave the small town of Meadow Brook in South Australia with a more pressing issue. While going through their mum’s things, they found evidence of a family curse. Although everyone except Lucinda brushed it off initially, all the girls wanted to know more. Finding out as much as they could, they went their separate ways again. But each of them kept thinking about it and for three of them, it strongly affected their next steps in life. For Abigail, it started as a crazy plan to come home. But she fell in love… Madeleine was already secretly in love, but things turned a bit crazy as she set off to achieve her plan. Then things got really awkward. Lucinda’s life went haywire after finding out about the curse until it affected every waking moment. Charlie was the least concerned, moving on with her life in a new direction and finding happiness.
Is there romance? Of course, but it’s not the focus. The men are still super-hot (I like Abigail’s man, but I won’t divulge his name. I’ll just say that Rachael can make any name drool worthy). But there’s love of all types here – family and friends too. The girls have a great relationship with their auntie, and each other too when they’re not squabbling. The Patterson Girls demonstrates just how great sisterly bonds can be, at any stage of your life.
But oh! The twist! The twist was SO DAMN GOOD. It was potentially heart breaking and edge of your seat stuff. It took the emotion to a whole new level and turned everything I thought I knew about the Patterson girls on its head. Even though it was twisty-turny angsty, I think this was my favourite part of the book. Maybe I’m a character masochist, but…wow! Another example of what a brilliant writer Rachael Johns is.
While I’m happy to hear that Rachael will be continuing to write in the rural romance genre, I can’t wait for her next contemporary life lit book! A stellar read.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for the ARC. My review is honest.
September 8, 2015
ARC received from publisher for an honest review
I don't know what rock I have been under, but this is my first Rachael Johns read - even though I have had the pleasure of meeting her.
I will definitely be rectifying that situation soon though.
I adored The Patterson Girls - what was there not to love. Four sisters, all so different, but with a bond that time nor distance can break. Each sister has their strengths and weaknesses that the others rely on or help with.
When they all get together for a family Christmas, their lives and loves all come to the fore. Each has their own struggles, but with the love of each other they can get through. Family secrets and curses are revealed, which gets them all thinking.
The Patterson family just feels so real. None of those perfect-made-for-TV families here. They fight, they laugh, they cry. They bicker like any siblings do.
This story is told from all 4 sister's perspectives, with alternating chapters. Each sister has such a distinct voice that I never felt confused as to who I was reading at the time.
Word of advice though - don't read this book on a coach tour like I did - you will need to hide those tears! I had to stop reading until I got to my hotel room at night! I swear I went through a whole box of Kleenex!
I love a book that tugs at the heartstrings though!
Ms Johns has written a beautiful, emotion-packed story and now I really, really need to read more of her work.
Cannot wait to see what she brings us next.
I don't know what rock I have been under, but this is my first Rachael Johns read - even though I have had the pleasure of meeting her.
I will definitely be rectifying that situation soon though.
I adored The Patterson Girls - what was there not to love. Four sisters, all so different, but with a bond that time nor distance can break. Each sister has their strengths and weaknesses that the others rely on or help with.
When they all get together for a family Christmas, their lives and loves all come to the fore. Each has their own struggles, but with the love of each other they can get through. Family secrets and curses are revealed, which gets them all thinking.
The Patterson family just feels so real. None of those perfect-made-for-TV families here. They fight, they laugh, they cry. They bicker like any siblings do.
This story is told from all 4 sister's perspectives, with alternating chapters. Each sister has such a distinct voice that I never felt confused as to who I was reading at the time.
Word of advice though - don't read this book on a coach tour like I did - you will need to hide those tears! I had to stop reading until I got to my hotel room at night! I swear I went through a whole box of Kleenex!
I love a book that tugs at the heartstrings though!
Ms Johns has written a beautiful, emotion-packed story and now I really, really need to read more of her work.
Cannot wait to see what she brings us next.
October 23, 2015
In The Patterson Girls we meet four sisters who have just returned home to their home on the Eyre Peninsula in Southern Australia. It will be their first Christmas together at their home - the Meadow Brook motel without their mother who died earlier in the year.
Madeleine is the oldest and works in Baltimore in the USA as an obstetrician. She has always been the one with a matter of fact approach to life.
Lucinda comes next. She is married to Joe, lives in Perth and teaches young children. Her main desire in life is to become pregnant and add to the large Italian family that Joe belongs to.
Charlotte or Charlie works at a cafe in Melbourne, she feels a little inferior to the others, has never been to university and thinks the others look down at her somewhat.
Abigail is the youngest, a talented violinist, lives in London and doesn't want the others to know she has been sacked from her job in the orchestra.
As they gather together it is tough finding their father just not himself and the motel going into the ground. Going through their mother's clothes they find an old card that indicates a curse on Patterson women. But what? Aunt Mags, their Dad's sister, is the one who gives them the answer. This starts off a different set of events for each sister that leads to a whole chapter of events in their lives. The only one who seems to be exempt from it all is Charlie who has remained at the motel after Christmas to help her dad out, and in doing so renews her friendship with Mitch, one of the local lads.
There is many an 'adventure' for each sister as the novel unfolds, each struggles with the challenges and opportunities offered. But ultimately it seems the curse overhangs them like a dark cloud.
This is a story of how when the chips are down family comes together, and how honesty and sharing can bond sisters together. It examines the stress of how trying to become pregnant can put a lot of pressure on a relationship and asks what ultimately really matters. I enjoyed the exploration of a modern group of people being put under pressure and entertaining the idea of a curse.
A warm, thought provoking story of family, loving and living life meaningfully and fully.
Madeleine is the oldest and works in Baltimore in the USA as an obstetrician. She has always been the one with a matter of fact approach to life.
Lucinda comes next. She is married to Joe, lives in Perth and teaches young children. Her main desire in life is to become pregnant and add to the large Italian family that Joe belongs to.
Charlotte or Charlie works at a cafe in Melbourne, she feels a little inferior to the others, has never been to university and thinks the others look down at her somewhat.
Abigail is the youngest, a talented violinist, lives in London and doesn't want the others to know she has been sacked from her job in the orchestra.
As they gather together it is tough finding their father just not himself and the motel going into the ground. Going through their mother's clothes they find an old card that indicates a curse on Patterson women. But what? Aunt Mags, their Dad's sister, is the one who gives them the answer. This starts off a different set of events for each sister that leads to a whole chapter of events in their lives. The only one who seems to be exempt from it all is Charlie who has remained at the motel after Christmas to help her dad out, and in doing so renews her friendship with Mitch, one of the local lads.
There is many an 'adventure' for each sister as the novel unfolds, each struggles with the challenges and opportunities offered. But ultimately it seems the curse overhangs them like a dark cloud.
This is a story of how when the chips are down family comes together, and how honesty and sharing can bond sisters together. It examines the stress of how trying to become pregnant can put a lot of pressure on a relationship and asks what ultimately really matters. I enjoyed the exploration of a modern group of people being put under pressure and entertaining the idea of a curse.
A warm, thought provoking story of family, loving and living life meaningfully and fully.
September 14, 2015
Four sisters, a plethora of well-kept secrets, and a family curse—what could possibly go wrong?!
Coming from a family of four sisters with a family curse in play, I have to be honest and say I was crazily excited when I heard that Rachael Johns had chosen that very premise as the plot for The Patterson Girls.
The Patterson Girls is an emotional read that quite literally encompasses the entire emotional spectrum. Johns presents each character flawlessly. Each character is painted vividly—their physical appearance, their emotional landscape, their quirks and their pitfalls. It's overwhelmingly refreshing to feel so connected to the characters, and she does that with all four lead characters.
Another aspect that I really found endearing was how perfectly Johns presents sisterhood. Anyone with sisters knows that it's quite possibly the trickiest relationship you'll ever navigate and certainly some stories gloss over the complexities of this. But not Rachael Johns. Oh no, she peels back all the niceties, all the facades that sisters often operate under and shows it like it is—the good, the bad, the ugly. It's all there. We see the ups and downs, the laughter and tears, the fights and... well...more fights (as sisters do!) but essentially what we see is the unquestionable loyalty that exists between sisters.
The Patterson Girls is Rachael Johns at her absolute finest and may very well be the book of 2015.
Coming from a family of four sisters with a family curse in play, I have to be honest and say I was crazily excited when I heard that Rachael Johns had chosen that very premise as the plot for The Patterson Girls.
The Patterson Girls is an emotional read that quite literally encompasses the entire emotional spectrum. Johns presents each character flawlessly. Each character is painted vividly—their physical appearance, their emotional landscape, their quirks and their pitfalls. It's overwhelmingly refreshing to feel so connected to the characters, and she does that with all four lead characters.
Another aspect that I really found endearing was how perfectly Johns presents sisterhood. Anyone with sisters knows that it's quite possibly the trickiest relationship you'll ever navigate and certainly some stories gloss over the complexities of this. But not Rachael Johns. Oh no, she peels back all the niceties, all the facades that sisters often operate under and shows it like it is—the good, the bad, the ugly. It's all there. We see the ups and downs, the laughter and tears, the fights and... well...more fights (as sisters do!) but essentially what we see is the unquestionable loyalty that exists between sisters.
The Patterson Girls is Rachael Johns at her absolute finest and may very well be the book of 2015.
September 13, 2015
Rachael Johns is a name I know well, but this is actually the first of her books that I've read. Many of her other books are more romance, whereas this one is more women's fiction. I loved her writing style and in depth characters, so I'll definitely track down more of Rachael's books when I feel like a romance hit.
I loved the familiar Australian setting and the specific little details that gave it a South Australian feel. I haven't spent much time in South Australia, but this book really got me in the mood for our family holiday down that way in a couple of weeks. The town we will be staying in got a passing mention. Speaking of passing mentions, I hunted down the chocolate coated apricot treat that one of the characters was craving (FruChocs) and I'm nibbling (OK scoffing) them while writing this review. That chocolate hit must have given me an energy boost, because I don't usually write reviews this long!
I loved the relationships between the four sisters and how they all came together to support their dad. The topic of infertility was dealt with sensitively and "The Patterson Curse" lightened the mood of the book, keeping it fun. If you like Liane Moriarty, you might enjoy this too.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the familiar Australian setting and the specific little details that gave it a South Australian feel. I haven't spent much time in South Australia, but this book really got me in the mood for our family holiday down that way in a couple of weeks. The town we will be staying in got a passing mention. Speaking of passing mentions, I hunted down the chocolate coated apricot treat that one of the characters was craving (FruChocs) and I'm nibbling (OK scoffing) them while writing this review. That chocolate hit must have given me an energy boost, because I don't usually write reviews this long!
I loved the relationships between the four sisters and how they all came together to support their dad. The topic of infertility was dealt with sensitively and "The Patterson Curse" lightened the mood of the book, keeping it fun. If you like Liane Moriarty, you might enjoy this too.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2015
The Patterson Girls by Rachael Johns was a story mixed with emotional upheaval focussing on the four Patterson sisters supporting their dad through the grieving over their mums death. This reader empathised for a couple of the characters in this read, for their challenges and constant hurdles. But that's not the only thing that brings the sisters together. There are a few shocks and twists in the story that had this reader at times stunned. Each of the siblings have their own very different personality and opinions that had me both laughing and cringing.
It was a toss up between Lucinda and Charlie who mostly grabbed my attention. Lucinda and Joe's agonising quest at parenthood was heart wrenching. The burning chemistry and obvious attraction between Charlotte and Mitch was heartfelt, entertaining and carried its own set of dramas.
Aunt Mags was just a hoot to read :)
Many challenges and sentimental moments within the story grabbed this reader. A story that was a striking, feel good read and a book you could read again.
4 stars
Review copy received from Harlequin Australia
It was a toss up between Lucinda and Charlie who mostly grabbed my attention. Lucinda and Joe's agonising quest at parenthood was heart wrenching. The burning chemistry and obvious attraction between Charlotte and Mitch was heartfelt, entertaining and carried its own set of dramas.
Aunt Mags was just a hoot to read :)
Many challenges and sentimental moments within the story grabbed this reader. A story that was a striking, feel good read and a book you could read again.
4 stars
Review copy received from Harlequin Australia
September 24, 2015
Wow Rachael this book I think is my favourite out of them all even through I cried and struggled as it hit so close to my heart for me. You have wrote this beautifuly and I hope one day the characters will pop in your head again and say we need you to write about us now and bring out a second book
September 28, 2015
Wow another awesome book written by the talented Rachael Johns!!!
Loves the story of the Patterson Girls and their up and downs.... But I NEED more!!!!
Loves the story of the Patterson Girls and their up and downs.... But I NEED more!!!!
October 7, 2015
Rachael Johns is a brilliant author loved this book about the Patterson girls and their different lives would highly recommend this book was a great read
December 22, 2015
Absolutely brilliant! Beautiful story and fell in love with the girls!
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