Overview

Five by Five takes us inside one of Scotland’s toughest prisons. Kennedy Allardyce works as an intelligence analyst, monitoring both prisoners and staff. When rumours begin to circulate about a corrupt prison officer with dangerous influence, Kennedy starts digging. The deeper she gets, the clearer it becomes that someone knows exactly what she is doing. At the same time, she finds herself drawn to Molly, a new prison officer who may not be quite what she seems.

Writing & Voice

We found Wilson’s writing sharp, tense and refreshingly authentic. The prison setting never feels borrowed from television drama. Every corridor, conversation and security procedure feels lived in. That realism gives the thriller elements extra weight and keeps the stakes high throughout.

Content & Perspective

Kennedy is a compelling lead because she spends her days observing others while becoming the target of observation herself. The investigation into corruption unfolds alongside her growing relationship with Molly, creating tension both professionally and personally. The result is a story where trust becomes increasingly difficult to place.

Themes

The novel explores power, surveillance, corruption and manipulation. It looks at what happens when institutions designed to maintain order become vulnerable from within. Running through the story is a question of trust, both in relationships and in systems that claim to protect people.

What Worked

• Unique prison setting that feels authentic and convincing.
• Strong central mystery built around corruption and hidden loyalties.
• Excellent tension that steadily tightens throughout the novel.

Minor Quibbles

• The prison terminology may take a little adjustment.
• Some secondary characters could have used more page time.

Final Thoughts

We came away feeling this was a prison thriller with genuine authority, using its setting to create tension rather than simply decorate the story.

Rating: ★★★★½ / 5