Nashoda Rose’s Five Second Rainbird, the first installment in the Underground Horsemen series, is a gripping tale that intertwines themes of trauma, resilience, and unexpected love. The narrative revolves around Macayla, a single mother, and Vic Gate, her enigmatic and brooding landlord, whose lives collide in a way that is both tumultuous and transformative.

The book opens with Macayla and her young son, Jackson, facing an impending eviction from their home. This sets a tone of urgency and vulnerability that permeates the story. Macayla is portrayed as a fiercely protective mother, determined to provide for her son despite the odds stacked against her. The emotional weight of her situation is palpable, and Rose does an excellent job of capturing the complexities of motherhood, especially in the face of adversity.

Vic Gate, on the other hand, is a character shrouded in mystery and intensity. An ex-Special Forces operative, he embodies raw power and a stoic demeanor that initially intimidates Macayla. Rose’s characterization of Vic is particularly compelling; he is not merely a brooding hero but a man haunted by his past, grappling with nightmares that threaten to consume him. His initial rudeness and abruptness serve as a protective shell, keeping others at bay. However, as the story unfolds, layers of his character are peeled back, revealing a man capable of deep emotion and protectiveness, especially towards Macayla and Jackson.

The chemistry between Macayla and Vic is electric, marked by a tension that is both thrilling and dangerous. Rose skillfully navigates their relationship, illustrating how two broken souls can find solace in each other. The author employs vivid imagery and evocative language to convey the intensity of their connection, making the reader feel the “eagle-diving, bee-stinging, fire-breathing-dragon fluttering” that Macayla experiences. This metaphor encapsulates the chaotic emotions that arise when one falls for someone who is both alluring and perilous.

One of the central themes of Five Second Rainbird is the concept of survival—both physical and emotional. Macayla’s struggle to keep her son safe and secure is juxtaposed against Vic’s internal battles with his past. The titular phrase, “if you count to five when something hurts really bad, the hurt can only get you for five seconds,” serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of resilience. This mantra resonates throughout the narrative, symbolizing the characters’ journeys as they confront their fears and traumas.

Rose also explores the theme of protection, both in a physical and emotional sense. Vic’s initial desire to distance himself from Macayla stems from his fear of endangering her and Jackson. However, as he becomes more involved in their lives, his protective instincts emerge, leading to a complex dynamic where love and danger intertwine. This duality is a hallmark of romantic suspense, and Rose executes it with finesse, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they wonder whether Vic’s past will ultimately destroy the fragile bond he has formed with Macayla.

The pacing of the novel is well-crafted, with moments of tension balanced by quieter, more intimate scenes that allow for character development. Rose’s writing is both lyrical and raw, capturing the emotional turmoil of her characters while also delivering heart-pounding action sequences. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding depth to the interactions between characters and enhancing the overall authenticity of the story.

In terms of character development, both Macayla and Vic undergo significant transformations throughout the book. Macayla evolves from a woman burdened by her circumstances to one who recognizes her strength and worth. Vic, too, learns to confront his demons and embrace the possibility of love and vulnerability. Their growth is not only believable but also inspiring, making them relatable to readers who have faced their own struggles.

While Five Second Rainbird stands out for its unique characters and gripping plot, it also invites comparisons to other works in the romantic suspense genre. Readers who enjoyed books like Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire or Sweet Home by Tillie Cole will find familiar themes of love blossoming amidst chaos and danger. However, Rose’s distinctive voice and the depth of her characters set this novel apart, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre.

Overall, Five Second Rainbird is a powerful exploration of love, trauma, and the resilience of the human spirit. Nashoda Rose has crafted a story that is both heart-wrenching and exhilarating, leaving readers eager for the next installment in the Underground Horsemen series. With its rich character development, emotional depth, and thrilling plot twists, this book is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever faced adversity and found strength in unexpected places.