New Release

Never Look Desperate

A Novel By Rachel Matthews

The story tackles the absurdity of despair in a recovering world, the liberation from isolation and the wild frontier of middle-aged tinder.

‘Matthews’ voice is funny and wry and heartbreakingly honest. She has empathy for everyone – even those of us who, like Bernard, are a little bit hopeless but not entirely without hope … ‘

Toni Jordan, author of Pretty if She Smiled More and Addition

Rachel Is Reviewed & Recommended By

Meet Rachel

Dr Rachel Matthews is a Melbourne Author, university lecturer, teacher and student welfare-co-ordinator. She loves working in spaces that encourage storytelling and a voice for all.

Rachel grew up in Shepparton, country Victoria. She loves returning there to spend time with family and enjoy the starry skies. She also loves 90s dance music, cooking, cats, watching her dad play in his jazz band and new experiences.

Explore Rachel's Books

Work With Rachel

Engage Rachel For A Little Inspiration

We are all storytellers. I love to create a space of discovery. I look forward to helping you discover your natural voice and style. Previous experience irrelevant!

Workshops & Courses

As a university lecturer and experienced presenter, I understand the despair of uninspiring PowerPoint slides! These sessions feature laughter, reflection, writing and new understandings of ourselves as storytellers

Book Rachel For Your Next Event

Fun interactive conversations, tailored to meet the needs of your group or organisation

Rachel's Books

‘Rachel Matthews is an important Australian voice. Her novel, Siren, tackled some of the most difficult territory in white Australian culture with courage, insight and pathos. She brings the same quality of understanding of human thought and impulse to this new work, Never Look Desperate, and layers into it a truly hilarious sensibility. Touching, funny and sexy, Never Look Desperate is transgressive but hugely readable.’