Discovering Life’s Unpredictable Paths: My Thoughts on In Five Years: A Novel by Rebecca Serle
There’s something magnetic about the idea of fate, isn’t there? When I picked up In Five Years: A Novel by Rebecca Serle, I was instantly drawn in by its intriguing premise: What if you could catch a glimpse of your future and see how drastically different it is from the life you had planned? This idea sparked curiosity in me, probably because like many of us, I often find myself wrestling with the age-old question, Where do I see myself in five years?
Dannie Kohan is a character who embodies ambition and precision. As an accomplished attorney, her life is meticulously planned out. But during one blissful night—after landing the job of her dreams and saying yes to her boyfriend’s proposal—she wakes up in a different apartment with a different man and an unexpected fate. This hour spent five years into the future turns her life upside down, leading her to grapple not just with what she saw but also with who she truly is at her core.
Serle’s exploration of themes like friendship, love, and the unpredictability of life struck a deep chord. At first glance, the narrative seems almost like a romantic comedy, reminiscent of Me Before You and One Day. However, as it unfolds, it reveals itself to be so much more—a poignant examination of the bonds that shape us. The friendship between Dannie and her best friend, Bella, is the heart of the story. It’s both a celebration of their connection and a meditation on how we can love deeply in various forms.
What truly stood out to me was Serle’s writing style—intimate and conversational. Each page felt like an invitation to share in Dannie’s journey. The pacing flows effortlessly, intertwining moments of lightheartedness with instances of gut-wrenching emotion that had me both laughing and crying within the span of a few pages. One memorable quote that resonated deeply was, “Sometimes, it takes living through something to know what your heart really wants.” This sentiment encapsulates the book’s essence, urging readers to embrace the beautiful chaos that life often brings.
Indeed, reviews vary widely, with some readers lamenting the book’s brevity and others frustrated that it didn’t fit the conventional love story mold. Yet, that’s what makes it special: it dares to redefine love, showing that it often lies in friendships and the unexpected turn of life events, rather than solely in romantic entanglements.
If you’re someone who enjoys tales that challenge the boundaries of love and friendship—with a sprinkle of magical realism thrown in—I wholeheartedly recommend In Five Years. Serle’s novel isn’t just a story; it’s a gentle reminder that while we may strive to plan every detail of our lives, sometimes it’s the unpredictability that offers the greatest growth. After reading this book, I felt an overwhelming appreciation for the here and now—a lesson I think all of us could use from time to time. So, where do you see yourself in five years? Maybe, just maybe, it’s time to embrace the unexpected journey that awaits.