5IVE is a heart-wrenching story that follows the tragic lives of five different women that have experienced abuse, betrayal, deceit, loss, spiritual fallout in their lives. Joined by trouble they become each other’s support system and through this it becomes clear to the reader that, although we encounter some difficult obstacles, we have to be strong to survive. Janine Ellis-Fynn has creatively given her characters a depth that makes them feel real and I was able to easily empathize. I love Diane. Despite going through so much since the age of four, she has a strong will, she is educated, intelligent and I felt like there was still unexplored layers to her. She has the strength of a warrior and comes back stronger every time. Always looking forward to her next move. Her honesty and sincerity is admirable. However, her strength will be tested when she faces her darkest secrets and the demons that have been haunting her all her life.

Sometimes the decisions of the people we love has an over-sized impact on our lives, some of  them we will regret, while some of them we will be happy about. What I appreciate most about this book was how well it captured the tension, pain, and drama in a persons life and make it feel real and relatable. This is definitely a character driven story that slowly develops some intriguing characters, and then sets them against some rather tough obstacles that will make you question how much one can endure. Janine Ellis-Fynn also has the unique ability to show readers that, even though tragedy strikes, we can build ourselves back up through the bonds we have, or the bonds we choose to create.

5IVE is an intriguing and insightful story that explores the challenges that women face. It provides a touching reflection on belief and faith, and gives a unique view into the mind of a woman. Anyone looking for a dramatic and engaging book will certainly enjoy this novel. I found it to be engrossing and thought-provoking.

Pages: 197 | ASIN: B08BZYP5SM