Your wife is definitely onto something, and might be behaving discreetly while (instinctively?) knowing more about the Watchtower than she is letting on...
Reading Romans carefully until it opens up is a great way to go. Maybe Galatians thereafter.
Possibly mark each occurence of the words "righteous" and "righteousness". You will notice that Paul and the Watchtower are definitely not on the same page.
Comparing Bible translations can help get ones mind out of the rut of the familiar.
The Message Bible can be a big help.
Best wishes for you and your family.