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The Fifth Avenue Story Society Kindle Edition

4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 3,336 ratings

When five New Yorkers receive an anonymous, mysterious invitation to the Fifth Avenue Story Society, they suspect they’re victims of a practical joke. No one knows who sent the invitations or why. No one has heard of the literary society. And no one is prepared to reveal their deepest secrets to a roomful of strangers.

Executive assistant Lexa is eager for a much-deserved promotion, but her boss is determined to keep her underemployed.

Literature professor Jett is dealing with a broken heart, as well as a nagging suspicion his literary idol, Gordon Phipps Roth, might be a fraud.

Uber driver Chuck just wants a second chance with his kids.

Aging widower Ed is eager to write the true story of his incredible marriage.

Coral, queen of the cosmetics industry, has broken her engagement and is on the verge of losing her great grandmother’s multimillion-dollar empire.

Yet curiosity and loneliness bring them back week after week to the old library. And it’s there they discover the stories of their hearts, and the kind of friendship and love that heals their souls.

  • Sweet, contemporary stand-alone novel
  • Book length: approximately 100,000 words
  • Includes discussion questions for book clubs
Popular Highlights in this book

From the Publisher

Fifth Avenue Story Society

New Release from Rachel Hauck

An invitation to join The Fifth Avenue Story Society gives five New York strangers a chance to rewrite their own stories.

“This captivating story full of heart, soul, and humor kept me turning pages until midnight to finish it. Rachel weaves the perfect amount of tension and opens possibilities to keep the reader pondering long after the story is over. I loved it!”— Francine Rivers, New York Times bestselling author

Other Rachel Hauck Titles You'll Love

Get into a sweet split-time romance with Rachel Hauck's collection of novels!

The Love Letter
The Love Letter
The Writing Desk
The Writing Desk
The Wedding Shop
The Wedding Shop
The Wedding Chapel
The Wedding Chapel
Customer Reviews
4.6 out of 5 stars 1,356
4.6 out of 5 stars 2,138
4.5 out of 5 stars 3,086
4.5 out of 5 stars 2,905
Price $4.70 $11.57 $16.44 $11.34
Description In this split-time romance, Hollywood actress Chloe is determined to make her mark, and screenwriter Jesse believes she's perfect to play the woman his Revolutionary War grandfather loved. This happily ever after romance tells the captivating story of two women bound together across time by a shared dream and a mysterious writing desk. Two women separated by decades. Both set out to help others find their dreams when their own have crumbled. A lonely wedding chapel built as a tribute to lost love just might hold the long-awaited secret to hope and reconciliation.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'In this exhilarating inspiration . . . Hauck inspires and uplifts with this mix of tales.' -- Publishers Weekly

'Examining how the tales we tell have the power to hurt and to heal, Hauck's crossover novel is for both romance and inspirational readers. Its message will resonate with readers long after the last page.' -- Library Journal starred review

About the Author

Rachel Hauck, a Rita Award finalist and Carol Award winner, graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in journalism. She has written dozens of novels, including the acclaimed Songbird novels with multiplatinum country singer Sara Evans, and serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers. She lives in central Florida with her husband and writes from her ivory tower. (Her office really is in a tower, and it's painted ivory.)

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07TBZN48W
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Thomas Nelson (February 4, 2020)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 4, 2020
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2043 KB
  • Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Up to 5 simultaneous devices, per publisher limits
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 402 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars 3,336 ratings

About the author

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Rachel Hauck
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Rachel Hauck is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author.

She is a Christy Award Winner and a double RITA finalist. Her book The Wedding Dress was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times Book Club. She is the recipient of RT's Career Achievement Award.

Her book, Once Upon A Prince, was filmed for an original Hallmark movie.

Hauck has been acclaimed for her split time novels and royal romances.

A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, and a former sorority girl, Rachel and her husband live in central Florida. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.

In other news, she's recently learned how to hard boil an egg. She's quite proud.

Visit her at www.rachelhauck.com or www.facebook.com/rachelhauck

Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
3,336 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the story captivating and thought-provoking. They describe the book as a fun, engaging read with intriguing characters that come to life through the author's writing style. Readers praise the well-written contemporary writing style that keeps them hooked from start to finish. The book explores friendships and relationships between a diverse group of people. Many find the story heartwarming and inspiring, reminding them of love and belonging.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

155 customers mention "Story quality"142 positive13 negative

Customers enjoy the engaging story and interwoven plot. They appreciate the thought-provoking tale and premise. The first half is full of intrigue with flawed characters hiding secrets. While some readers find the story predictable, they appreciate how the author brings five people with divergent stories together in a literary way.

"...Though not in your face, God is evident throughout the book. He is seen through Coral’s words, and clearly visible in the sweet librarian, Gilda...." Read more

"As I have said before when reviewing a book, I love a book with a unique plot. So many books use similar plots and dialogue so that you have deja vu...." Read more

"The Fifth Avenue Story Society drew me in with its book-centered premise, its author, the illustrious Rachel Hauck, and yes, a beautiful cover...." Read more

"...The stories of each of them was fascinating and especially seeing how the bond between them developed as time went by...." Read more

91 customers mention "Readability"91 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy this book. They find it an enchanting read that keeps them hooked until the end. The story is captivating and keeps readers wanting to know what happens next. Readers praise the author's style and consider the book special.

"...I enjoyed this story and would definitely read it again...." Read more

"...I highly recommend this book, Happy reading!" Read more

"...drew me in with its book-centered premise, its author, the illustrious Rachel Hauck, and yes, a beautiful cover...." Read more

"...It was a fun read until about 3/4 way through when Jesus entered the picture and eventually saved everyone...." Read more

77 customers mention "Character development"73 positive4 negative

Customers enjoy the intriguing characters and intricate backstories. They find the writing skillfully bringing the characters to life.

"...Rachel Hauck has created realistic characters with so much depth, characters who have their own struggles yet long to be accepted...." Read more

"...Each character pops off the page and possesses a unique, well-crafted story that fits great with everyone else's...." Read more

"...This book is different in that there are five main characters, all from very different backgrounds and life experiences...." Read more

"...I did find the Trudy character interesting and even though she did do something morally unforgiving, the consequences were appropriate...." Read more

33 customers mention "Writing style"33 positive0 negative

Customers praise the writing style as contemporary and engaging. They find it easy to read, well-written, and artistically done by the author. The book is described as a light and inspirational read.

"...Rachel Hauck does not disappoint in this beautifully written novel where friendships are formed, broken bonds made whole, and truth prevails...." Read more

"...This is a beautifully written, heartfelt story that will stay with me for a while...." Read more

"...buying all of the books as this is an interesting author with a great writing style. The books I have read have made me laugh, cry, and think...." Read more

"...Nice, easy read with feel-good vibes. No profanity, no uncomfortable sexual scenes. Wholesome, G-rated book." Read more

26 customers mention "Heartwarming"26 positive0 negative

Customers find the book engaging and heartwarming. They describe it as a sweet, clean read with inspirational messages about love and belonging. The author's heart shines through in her words and actions, making the book a nice and easy read with feel-good vibes.

"...Through Coral’s words and actions, her heart shines through, and it’s a heart for God...." Read more

"...premise, its author, the illustrious Rachel Hauck, and yes, a beautiful cover...." Read more

"...It was safe, uplifting and inspiring to love and cherish those you come on contact with even if you don't really know them...." Read more

"...In this story you will find laughter, love, heartbreak, healing, a little faith and some joy. I recommend this one for sure." Read more

22 customers mention "Friendship"22 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book's friendship themes. They find it relatable and engaging, with a unique group of friends coming together. The book explores healing the past, finding community, and risking the truth. It also portrays each of the five strangers as memorable.

"...does not disappoint in this beautifully written novel where friendships are formed, broken bonds made whole, and truth prevails...." Read more

"...mentioned in her author's note, it was also fun to reunite with characters from The Writing Desk, which made me want to revisit that book...." Read more

"...5 people brought together mysteriously. All walks of life. Many differences. Why them? The mysteries continue through their secrets...." Read more

"...I likevthat the setting is a room in a library and the mysterious invitations to a select group...." Read more

20 customers mention "Truthfulness"20 positive0 negative

Customers find the book engaging and honest. It encourages them to be truthful with God, others, and themselves. The story offers valuable life lessons and a journey of self-discovery.

"...novel where friendships are formed, broken bonds made whole, and truth prevails...." Read more

"...and because she doesn't say so for a long while, her journey feels organic, realistic, and all the more touching...." Read more

"...They found that truth brings a freedom they never imagined giving them newfound hope for the future...." Read more

"...Bringing the truth to light is freeing. Coral's journey to faith is quietly depicted but essential...." Read more

16 customers mention "Religious content"10 positive6 negative

Customers have different views on the religious content. Some find it well-researched and engaging, with deep emotions and believable interactions. Others feel the ending takes an unexpected turn into Christian proselytizing.

"...is able to see behind the scenes more clearly, a look into their thoughts and feelings. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be Coral...." Read more

"...As secrets were slowly revealed, the book edged into proselytizing. The happy endings for all seemed forced." Read more

"...so for a long while, her journey feels organic, realistic, and all the more touching...." Read more

"...In this story you will find laughter, love, heartbreak, healing, a little faith and some joy. I recommend this one for sure." Read more

Strangers to Friends, Stories to Memories
4 out of 5 stars
Strangers to Friends, Stories to Memories
Thank you in advance to TNZ Fiction/Thomas Nelson and Prism Book Tours for providing a complimentary review. A positive review was not required. All words and thoughts are my own.I didn’t know quite what to expect from this story. Was it a love story, coming of age, crisis of conscience, or mid-life crisis?I was interested in the idea of five complete strangers being invited to a “story society” in a posh library. Two of the five are exes which made this quite interesting from the beginning.But, why them? What did they have in common? Why were they invited to this “society”? No one has heard of this society, let alone who sent the invites.The five characters seem to be in some crisis in their lives. And, despite the initial rough meeting, they decide they should continue to show up even though they don’t know why they’re there or who invited them.The story is told in third person with five (5) POVs – Alexa, Jett, Chuck, Ed, and Coral. And, each one of the characters are deeply, realistically flawed.Alexa (Prescott-Wilder) thinks she is CEO material and trying hard to get the much-deserved promotion she wants at work. She also happens to be Jett’s ex-wife. She receives her invite while at work.Jett Wilder – Alexa’s ex-husband, and literature professor. He is doing a dissertation on a childhood literary figure who he feels may be a fraud. Has an overnight stay in jail, meets Chuck there. Gets invite in his “stuff”.Chuck Mays – A divorced Über driver who has a TRO against him that bars him from seeing his kids; losing custody battle. Met Jett overnight in jail. Invite on his car.Ed Marshall – A 70+ year old widower who is trying to write about his wife, the love of his life. The two were only married for less than 10 years before she died. Unknown how he got his invite.Coral Winthrop – The figure of CCW Cosmetics which her grandmother started. Coral is also nicknamed “The Panicked Princess” for calling off her wedding at the last minute to a prince. Her company is seemingly “tanking” without a known reason. Unknown how she got her invite.It starts off slow in the beginning and I struggled to get into it, but by chapter 21 – it starts picking up.I found myself not being able to put it down. I was starting to get drawn in by not only the characters’ present, but their past. They also begin to find their own “life stories” within their unlikely friendship, and their situations. As I was reading, I was trying to navigate the plot of this – what exactly was this novel? Was it a second-chance romance? So, I was trying to read and figure it out. The cover reminds me of a cozy mystery or romance.An accident sidelines Alexa who has to rely on her ex-husband for care. And, during this time they begin to get close to each other. I was cheering for their reconciliation.That wasn’t the only romantic aspect either – one man was reconciling the loss of his marriage, one had run from a wedding, and one was still in mourning for his lost love. That was another thing about this novel – the different aspects and “places” of love.Most of the novel plays out with alternating each person’s POV.In addition, Hauck added two mystery elements – Coral’s company and whether or not Jett’s literary idol was a fraud. Though I was more interested in Coral’s “drama”.I found Coral’s situation more interesting – her CFO (chief financial officer) and CEO (chief executive officer) are telling her the company is floundering, which on the surface it looks like it is – despite what Coral has heard. And, especially when Lexa brings something to light.Lexa is also dealing with her boss “using her” and not recognizing what she brings to it.This book was heart-breaking, frustrating, and touching to read. It even had a haunting sadness to it. Still, there were elements of hope and even some humor. One such quote in particular:“I was hatched by under a magnolia tree and raised by squirrels in the park. My grandmother happened upon me one day and carried me up to my mother to raise as a pet” – Coral when being asked about her parents.[That line appeared in the ARC – and I hope it made it to the finished version.]I deeply enjoyed the music references: Fleetwood Mac, Foreigner, and Gladys Knight to name a few. As I loved Fleetwood Mac’s music since I was a child, this was a treat to see the group mentioned. Even a TV show I liked as a teenager got a mention.My heart nearly broke at one point when it looked like everything was falling apart. Yet, at the end, everything came together and in a beautiful way. I also enjoyed the subtle role that Gilda played in everything.As far as who sent the invites … that’s a mystery for another day.This is published by Thomas Nelson’s fiction line, and they are a Christian based publisher. There were very few Christian references until around chapter 30 when one of the characters shared about what role that Jesus played in their decision.This is also a very clean read with symbols used in place of an actual curse/vulgar word.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2020
    “See how much the written word can do? See how truth can set a soul free?”

    Rachel Hauck does not disappoint in this beautifully written novel where friendships are formed, broken bonds made whole, and truth prevails.

    No one knows why they received this mysterious invitation, but when five people show up in the Bower Room of the Fifth Avenue Literary Society Library, their lives are forever changed. Intrigued by the mystery behind this Monday night meeting, Jett, Lexa, Coral, Chuck, and Ed make the decision to continue meeting each week for an indeterminate amount of time. What is revealed as the weeks progress is that each one has a story, and they each have a choice to make.

    This story is multifaceted, but it all comes down to one thing: truth and the struggle thereof. Jett searches for truth but is afraid to find it; Chuck is afraid to share his story for fear of being hated; Coral needs to find the truth behind her failing company; Lexa prefers to run than to face her feelings head-on; and Ed? Ed has a story to tell, but which one?

    Rachel Hauck has created realistic characters with so much depth, characters who have their own struggles yet long to be accepted. Each character is given their own sections in the story where the reader is able to see behind the scenes more clearly, a look into their thoughts and feelings. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be Coral. Through Coral’s words and actions, her heart shines through, and it’s a heart for God.

    Though not in your face, God is evident throughout the book. He is seen through Coral’s words, and clearly visible in the sweet librarian, Gilda. There is no question that God is a part of this group, and I enjoy how the author chooses to show Him.

    I enjoyed this story and would definitely read it again. If you’re looking for a contemporary novel that delves deep into struggle, choice, and truth, one where God is present in an almost physical sense, then this is one you should pick up.

    I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
    63 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on February 10, 2020
    As I have said before when reviewing a book, I love a book with a unique plot. So many books use similar plots and dialogue so that you have deja vu. I assure you, The Fifth Avenue Story Society is not one of those books.

    Five individuals receive engraved invitations to attend the Fifth Avenue Story Society: an elderly gentleman who has lived in the same co-op for almost 50 years and is now the super; a young college professor who teaches in the literature department and who is the ex-husband of another of the invitees; a young woman who has worked as an executive assistant for 6 years doing everything from clerical work to work that should be done by an executive for a fast-growing hamburger chain and who is the college professor’s ex-wife; a young woman who is the CEO of a world-wide cosmetics company and who left her fiancee, the Prince of a small European country, at the altar; and a handsome, divorced young man who drives for Uber, has 6 year-old twins to whom he can’t be within 500 feet, and who got to know the college professor while they shared a jail cell after a brawl at a wedding reception. None of them knows why they received the invitation or from whom it came but they decide to show up and find out what it is all about.

    All five of them have stories to tell and none of them want to share their story.

    Ed Marshall, the elderly super wants to write a book about the great love he and his wife shared but doesn’t know how to begin. The Fifth Avenue group doubts Ed’s marriage was as idyllic as he makes it out to be. Can he face the truth and share it with the group?

    Jett Wilder, the professor, is hiding behind the tragic story of his brother’s death, is refusing to admit his part in his divorce, and is under pressure to finish a book he is writing about a famous author. Can he share what happened in his life and what he has discovered about his favorite author? What is he supposed to do regarding his realization that he still loves his ex-wife?

    Lexa Wilder, the hard-working executive assistant’s story is related to her loyalty to her employer, her childhood, and her divorce from the professor. Can she openly share all of her pain with the other participants? Can Lexa admit that she loves her former husband?

    Coral Winthrop, the owner and President of CCW Cosmetics, a family company started by her great grandmother, has been dubbed the Panicked Princess for walking out on her royal fiancee on the day of their wedding. She has refused to explain what happened, and then learns that the months of preparations for her wedding appear to have adversely affected her company. Can she share these stories with the other four individuals who meet together on Monday night?.

    Chuck Mays, caught his wife with another man and lost his temper which resulted in his wife obtaining a temporary restraining order keeping him from getting near his children. His wife kicked him out of the house and instituted divorce proceedings. As a result, he lost his job because he was working for his wife’s father. Now he drives for Uber and a limo service. Can he share the reason why he is not allowed to be close to his children? What is he supposed to do with his growing affection for Coral?

    Can these five individuals be honest with themselves and each other? If so, what will the effect on their lives be?

    Then, of course, there is Gilda, the librarian at the society. At the end of each meeting she lets them know it’s quitting time and then, after two or three weeks, she begins to offer suggestions to those who need a bit of encouragement.

    There are some twists and turns along the way, but ultimately you may have a good idea of the outcome for the five participants but you will probably be surprised to learn who is behind their invitations. I highly recommend this book, Happy reading!
    3 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Nicole Brinklow
    5.0 out of 5 stars I loved it!!!
    Reviewed in Canada on July 16, 2021
    Hauck created relatable characters that drew me in right from the beginning! The premise behind the novel was such a wonderful tale on getting five diverse people from different walks of life working towards a common goal. Their growth and healing as they open up and learn to be vulnerable is inspiring. Highly recommend!
  • Anne
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book
    Reviewed in Canada on July 18, 2022
    Loved the story ❤️ I read it in one sitting
  • Paulette
    5.0 out of 5 stars Best read ever
    Reviewed in Canada on February 22, 2020
    I have read almost every book this author has written. I have enjoyed them all. However, I have to say this is her best work yet!!! I didn't want the book to end. Sooooo good!!
  • Julie
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fantasy fiction
    Reviewed in Canada on August 26, 2020
    Excellent development of each character, but religious connotations spoilt some of it
  • Jordan Hageman
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book
    Reviewed in Canada on March 14, 2020
    Loved it.

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