Book Review: In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
When I first picked up In Five Years, I was excited not just because it’s a Good Morning America Book Club pick, but also due to the intriguing premise that seemed to weave seamlessly between fate and choice. As someone who often contemplates what the future holds, I was captivated by the idea of a character grappling with a chilling yet beautiful glimpse into her life five years ahead. Rebecca Serle, with her deft storytelling, invites us to ponder the age-old question: where do you see yourself in five years?
The protagonist, Dannie Kohan, is everything we might aspire to be—successful, organized, and ambitious. She thrives on her carefully curated plans and meticulously charts every possible outcome. But when she suddenly finds herself in a different life during a dream that feels startlingly real—complete with a different fiancé and a career path that’s nothing like her own—her commitment to control and order is thrown into disarray.
Serle’s writing is both lyrical and poignant, with a storytelling style that balances heartfelt emotion with light humor. The pacing is just right; it grips you from the start and elegantly unfolds the story, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Dannie’s internal conflict. I spent many nights turning just one more page, unable to resist the magnetic pull of her story.
One of the standout themes in the novel is the complexity of love. It challenges the idea that love is definitive and fixed. Instead, it weaves a narrative of love’s fluidity and unpredictability, prompting readers to reflect on how our relationships can shift and evolve in ways we never expect. Serle captures this essence beautifully. As one character states, “Life is what happens when you’re busy making plans,” a quote that resonated with me deeply. It’s a reminder that while we can plan our paths, life often has other plans in store.
Each character, especially her best friend Bella, adds layers to the narrative. Bella represents a free spirit, challenging Dannie’s unwavering pragmatism, and serves as a heartwarming reminder of the value of spontaneity and connection. Their friendship is both a safe harbor and a catalyst for growth, highlighting that it’s often our relationships that guide us through life’s uncertainties.
As I closed the book, I found myself reflecting on my own life choices and relationships. In Five Years isn’t just a story about love; it’s a meditation on the paths we take and the unforeseen detours that can lead to new opportunities.
This novel is perfect for anyone who has ever found themselves at a crossroads, wondering about the future or questioning the decisions they’ve made. Fans of Me Before You and One Day will especially find a kindred spirit in this tale of love, ambition, and fate.
So, if you’re looking for a book that will make you think, feel, and embrace the unpredictability of life, I highly recommend picking up In Five Years. It’s an unforgettable journey that lingers long after the last page has been turned, reminding us beautifully that sometimes, even the best-laid plans need a little spontaneity—and a great deal of love.
You can find In Five Years: A GMA Book Club Pick (a Novel) here >>