Whisper Network by Chandler Baker
Rating: 4.5 stars
Published: July 2, 2019
Publisher: Flatiron Books
Pages: 352
Genres: mystery, thriller, contemporary fiction
Recommend to fans of: office drama, modern day feminist issues, MeToo movement, issues relating to sexism and feminism in the workplace
Synopsis:
Four women learn their boss (a man who’s always been surrounded by rumors about how he treats women) is next in line to be CEO—what will happen when they decide enough is enough?
Sloane, Ardie, Grace, and Rosalita are four women who have worked at Truviv, Inc., for years. The sudden death of Truviv’s CEO means their boss, Ames, will likely take over the entire company. Ames is a complicated man, a man they’ve all known for a long time, a man who’s always been surrounded by…whispers. Whispers that have always been ignored by those in charge. But the world has changed, and the women are watching Ames’s latest promotion differently. This time, they’ve decided enough is enough.
Sloane and her colleagues set in motion a catastrophic shift within every floor and department of the Truviv offices. All four women’s lives—as women, colleagues, mothers, wives, friends, even adversaries—will change dramatically as a result.
“If only you had listened to us,” they tell us on page one, “none of this would have happened.”
Review:
Thank you to NetGalley, Flatiron Books and Chandler Baker for an ARC ebook copy to review. As always, an honest review from me.
Like:
- Lots of background info and a good lead to the drama
- Different outlooks from different women – the accusers and the man’s wife
- People will have strong reactions to the book’s topics, which is great to get a discussion going
- Perfect for book clubs – in person or online!
- Behind the scenes look at an investigation into sexual harassment claims
- Real life modern day work place issues – relatable to so many
Love:
- More books are discussing this topic: sexual harassment in the workplace. Men can’t get away with inappropriate behavior and the imbalance of power anymore
- A #MeToo topic book!
- The camaraderie of the women in the workplace without being overbearing and anti men. The story feels very balanced and shows the perspectives of different people and different genders
- Several mentions of breast feeding in a positive manner. We don’t see this enough in books!
- Really enjoyable to read; great pacing, wonderful writing, seamless plot transitions
Dislike:
- Lots of information, but reads as a slow pace book at times – mainly during the beginning. It does level out to a much better pace about 25% of the way in.
- Not a dislike for me, but possibly for other people. Lots of discussions of sexual harassment, suicide, and legal issues involving these topics.
Wish that:
- Captured my attention more (in the first half). It’s interesting, but with this topic feel like it could do so much more.
- I related to the women more at the beginning of the story, since the discussion was from the POV of the accused’s wife
Overall, a wonderful book about modern day women in the workplace. Many issues were brought up in the context of the story. I think a lot of people will relate to and enjoy this novel. For awhile I wasn’t sure if I wanted to request an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley, but I’m so glad that I did. Definitely recommend!
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