Unfortunately this book did not do it for me. I finished it, but had little interest in it. I did not care for the narrator. 3 stars

Many thanks to Net Galley and Brilliance Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Five Oaks is a beautifully layered, multi-generational coming-of-age story. I was moved by the emotional depth and the exploration of identity and family across generations. That said, the pacing felt uneven at times, and the large cast made it hard to fully connect with every character. I found myself wanting more space for key relationships and moments to unfold. Still, the themes stayed with me long after finishing, and I’m grateful to have read it.

Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the chance to listen to this title in exchange for my opinion.

Julie Hensley's Five Oaks is a mesmerizing, multi-generational saga that unfolds amidst the lush, enigmatic beauty of the Arkansas mountains. It's a novel that hums with the unspoken language of family, the fierce bonds that both sustain and threaten to shatter us, and the enduring quest for self-discovery that echoes through generations of women.

Hensley masterfully transports us to Five Oaks, a seemingly idyllic lake house that serves as the crucible for the Pritchard women. For fifteen-year-old Wren and her younger sister, Sylvie, this summer marks a pivotal moment. It's a season of firsts, of stolen moments, and of the intoxicating allure of freedom. Wren, on the cusp of womanhood, embarks on a journey of exploration, her nights filled with a forbidden romance and a growing sense of recklessness.

Through Sylvie's eyes, we witness Wren's transformation, a thrilling yet unsettling dance on the edge of innocence. Hensley paints a vivid portrait of sisterhood, capturing the delicate balance between loyalty and fear, the silent pacts, and the agonizing weight of secrets. Sylvie's vow of silence becomes a character in itself, a tangible presence that permeates the narrative, amplifying the mounting tension as Wren's nocturnal escapades become increasingly perilous.

But Five Oaks is more than just a coming-of-age story. Hensley skillfully weaves a tapestry of past and present, revealing the hidden currents that flow beneath the surface of this family. The halcyon days at Five Oaks are not as they seem, and as the truth begins to unravel, we discover that the secrets harbored by mothers, daughters, and sisters have far-reaching consequences.

Hensley's prose is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the raw beauty of the Arkansas landscape while simultaneously hinting at the darkness that lurks beneath its serene surface. She delves into the complexities of female relationships with unflinching honesty, exploring the ways in which love, betrayal, and sacrifice shape our identities.

Five Oaks is a powerful and unforgettable novel that will resonate deeply with readers. It's a testament to the enduring power of family, the weight of secrets, and the resilience of the human spirit. Julie Hensley has crafted a story that is both deeply moving and utterly captivating, a haunting exploration of the ties that bind us and the truths that set us free. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

Five Oaks Honest ARC Review:

4.5⭐️

Well written, poignant and filled with heartfelt accounts of one family over a span of three generations, Five Oaks is one you don’t want to miss.

At times, I felt that each generation of characters were relatable, complex and developed further throughout the novel.

Small tragedies, family secrets and beautiful memories intertwine to allow access into the world of one family of strong, resilient individuals. Each family seems to have a perfect life, until the story unfolds.

I found this to be engaging, entertaining and inspiring.

Thank you for sharing this ARC with me.

Thank you netaglley and the publisher for an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Loved this story. Had so much nostalgia for me and really liked the single narrator and all the voices.

The cover of this book drew me in right away! The storyline however did not and I want to say it is mostly because the narrator. Not that it was bad but just not for me. I am picky with audio

5/5⭐️ 📖🎧

» Family lake house setting, coming of age story, female generational p.o.vs and how young love can make us act.

» I really enjoyed this families story. It was heartfelt and innocent until it wasn’t. This will get you in your feels.

i really loved this, and i wouldnt have picked it up otherwise!! i am so thankful i was able to read this story, and the audiobook was amazing!!