Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets: A Novel

by Rose Mary Stiffin

Synopsis for Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets by Rose Mary Stiffin, PhD







Six women's paths cross in medical school as five of them strive to become medical doctors, sometimes against all odds. Each one must succeed, and their mentor must ensure their success. But each one of them carries a secret. Everyone has a secret. Some are innocuous; others are far-reaching and can cross both moral and ethical lines.



Meet six women living in Lincoln, Nebraska, five of whom are attending a new medical program. Their mentor, Dr. Elizabeth Hoslin, encourages them and loves them as if they were her little chicks under her wings. But she has a secret that even she is reluctant to admit.



Connie keeps her secret hidden in a drawer. Glory's past shaped her dark secret. Candi's secret is haunting and unbelievable, crossing both ethical and moral lines. Amaryllis has a secret that could eat at her like a cancer. Will true friendship and love enable her to share her secret? Jo doesn't even know she has a secret. When she discovers it, will it destroy or strengthen her?



Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets is Stiffin's sixth novel. If you like discovering secrets that are both warmhearted and frightening, getting to know characters you will not soon forget, then you will love this saga.

419 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 11, 2021

Reviews

[Andrea Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets, Rose Mary Stiffin takes readers on an emotional journey through the intertwined lives of six women bound by ambition, mentorship, and secrets. Set in Lincoln, Nebraska, the novel follows five medical students and their mentor, Dr. Elizabeth Hoslin, who nurtures them like her own daughters. Yet beneath the promise of white coats and healing hands lie hidden truths—some tender, others dangerous enough to test loyalty and ethics.

Stiffin masterfully blends drama with moral complexity. Each woman’s secret unfolds like a pulse beneath the story, revealing how ambition and vulnerability coexist in the pursuit of success. The mentor-student dynamic adds warmth and depth, showing the strength of sisterhood even when shadows threaten to divide it.

This is not just a story about medicine—it’s about the heart behind the stethoscope. Thought-provoking, heartfelt, and suspenseful, Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets earns high praise for its emotional honesty and unforgettable characters.

[Arabella Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets by Rose Mary Stiffin is an emotional and thought-provoking novel about ambition, friendship, and the hidden burdens people carry. Set in Lincoln, Nebraska, the story follows five women—Connie, Glory, Candi, Amaryllis, and Jo—who enter a new MD/PhD program under the mentorship of the compassionate and driven Dr. Elizabeth Hoslin.

Each woman arrives with her own dream and a secret that shapes her journey. Some secrets are painful, others deeply moral, but all reveal the complexities of being a person. Through shifting perspectives and heartfelt moments, Stiffin explores resilience, identity, and the power of sisterhood in a world that constantly tests them.

Beautifully written and emotionally layered, this novel captures both the challenges and triumphs of women pursuing excellence against all odds. Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets is inspiring, and impossible to forget.

[Gary Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m usually drawn to character-driven stories, especially ones where relationships evolve slowly and realistically — and this book delivered that beautifully. The dynamic between Dr. Elizabeth Hoslin and Dr. Jonathan Griffiths kept me hooked from the start. What begins as professional tension and unspoken prejudice turns into a layered connection built on empathy and mutual respect. I found myself rereading some of their quieter moments just to catch the subtle shifts in tone — the kind of emotional tension that feels honest, not forced. Stiffin writes these two with depth and maturity, reminding readers that understanding often grows out of discomfort. I love when a book makes me reflect on how people change when they choose to see beyond assumptions. This story lingers long after you close the last page.

[Jaxson Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved most about Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets is how beautifully it captures the realities of race and ambition in academic spaces. Rose Mary Stiffin doesn’t just talk about inequality — she paints it with vivid, accessible imagery that makes you feel every glance, every unspoken judgment, and every hard-earned victory. The writing is graceful yet powerful, bringing to life the emotional weight carried by minority students and professionals who constantly have to prove their worth. Dr. Hoslin’s experiences resonated deeply with me; her strength, composure, and quiet determination felt both inspiring and painfully familiar. It reminded me that success sometimes comes with invisible battles most people never see. Thoughtful, moving, and beautifully written, it’s a story that lingers long after you finish reading.

[Bennett Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gripping medical thriller that pulls back the curtain on the cutthroat world of an elite MD/PhD program. The novel introduces a cohort of five brilliant but deeply flawed young women—the titular stethoscopes—each carrying a personal burden that threatens to derail their careers. But the biggest mystery lies with the new Director, Dr. Hoslin, and the professional and personal dynamic she shares with her enigmatic supervisor. This story is a masterclass in tension, where the pressure of medical studies is secondary to the dark secrets the characters harbor, including self-harm and shocking criminal acts. The suspense and high-stakes hospital drama will keep you racing to the final page. A must-read for fans of psychological suspense.

[Ashley Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a powerful, character-driven journey through the eyes of the fiercely professional Dr. Elizabeth Hoslin, a woman newly hired as the Director of Minority Research and Medical Studies. She arrives at a new university, ready to prove her vision for diversity in medicine, only to be met with a class of all-female students and the confusing, almost hostile silence of her supervisor, Dr. Griffiths. Dr. Hoslin's determination to succeed and her commitment to her students forms the heart of the story. This novel excels at detailing the intense professional and personal struggles of a woman of color navigating a predominantly White institution. It's a must-read for fans of strong female leads and realistic university politics.

[Bob Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dive into the demanding world of a joint MD/PhD program with this intense novel. The true stars are the five diverse female students: Connie, the shy oncologist-to-be; Candi, the overly confident; Amaryllis, the athletic hematology enthusiast; Glory, the fragile dove; and Jo, the iron-willed holistic advocate. Together, they are brilliant, yet vulnerable to the pressures of their studies, family issues, and the crushing secrets they keep. From medical rotations and exams to clandestine meetings and personal crises, the narrative vividly captures the high stakes and exhaustion of their journey. This isn't just a book about becoming a doctor; it’s a detailed, emotional glimpse into the true cost of ambition.

[Leila Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond the labs and lecture halls, this book delivers an unexpected slow-burn romance you won't be able to put down. Dr. Hoslin, a fiercely independent woman, finds herself both drawn to and deeply irritated by her reserved, yet incredibly attractive boss, Dr. Jonathan Griffiths. Their initial professional relationship, marked by his unexplained silence and her ensuing hostility, evolves into a compelling dynamic fueled by late-night meetings, shared work trips, and undeniable tension. Watch as Dr. Hoslin moves from joking about seducing her 'racist' boss to falling for the man who is far more complicated—and perhaps darker—than she realizes. The mystery of the "sixth secret" is as much about their forbidden chemistry as it is about the students' hidden lives.

[Lilly Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is essential reading for its unflinching look at diversity and inclusion in higher education and medicine. The new Director's mandate is to champion brilliant minority students, and her journey exposes the subtle, daily challenges faced by women of color in academia. The book delves into the internal life of the Black professional woman, capturing her strength, vulnerability, and her right to both ambition and love. By capturing together the struggles of the students, from dealing with poverty and parental absence to managing self-harm and forbidden romance, the author crafts a powerful statement on the complex intersection of race, gender, and class. A truly diverse, emotional, and impactful story!

[Amy Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets to hit me this hard. It’s more than a story about women in medicine—it’s a mirror of real life. I’ve worked in a high-pressure environment myself, and I saw so much of that same exhaustion and quiet determination in Dr. Hoslin and her students. The tension between Dr. Hoslin and Dr. Griffiths felt so genuine, reminding me how easily misunderstanding and pride can mask vulnerability. What struck me most was how each woman carried her pain in silence, something so many of us do to appear strong. Rose Mary Stiffin captures that truth with raw honesty. This book reminded me that resilience isn’t about never breaking—it’s about finding the courage to keep showing up, even when your heart is heavy.

[Frank Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

What really stood out to me in this novel is Dr. Elizabeth Hoslin’s role as the Director of Minority Research and Medical Studies. Her position isn’t just a job—it’s a symbol of strength and representation in a system that hasn’t always welcomed diversity. Through her, Rose Mary Stiffin shines a light on what it means to be both a mentor and a pioneer. I admired how Dr. Hoslin fought for her students, especially minority women trying to prove their worth in a demanding field. Her story felt personal and real, reminding me of the teachers and mentors who opened doors for others even when those doors were hard to push open. It’s a powerful, inspiring read that honors resilience and purpose in education.

[Aubree Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What truly makes Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets unforgettable is how Rose Mary Stiffin uses each secret as a mirror to the soul. The “six secrets” aren’t just plot twists — they’re emotional truths about shame, guilt, fear, and the quiet battles we all carry inside. As I read, I found myself thinking about how often we hide pain behind ambition, and how those hidden struggles can both fuel and fracture us. Each revelation hits hard, not for the drama, but for the honesty behind it. Stiffin writes with sensitivity and insight, blending suspense with deep emotional resonance.It’s more than a medical drama — it’s a story that goes straight to the heart. I couldn’t put it down — and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone who loves stories that make you feel and think at the same time.

[Jacob King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candi’s story hit me harder than I expected. Her secret — tied to ambition and moral compromise — reminded me of a moment in my own life when I crossed a line I swore I never would, just to reach a goal. Reading her struggle brought all those emotions back: the guilt, the justification, and the quiet fear of being found out. Rose Mary Stiffin doesn’t judge her characters; she lets them unravel naturally, showing how ambition can twist even the best intentions. I admired how the book forces readers to confront their own ethical boundaries without ever preaching. It’s unsettling, honest, and heartfelt. Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets isn’t just fiction — it’s a reflection of the choices we all face when the pressure to succeed becomes too heavy to bear.

[Zuri Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually bought this book by chance after a friend recommended it, and I’m so glad I did. I wasn’t expecting it to hit so close to home. The way Rose Mary Stiffin captures the psychological toll of medical training is brutally honest and deeply moving. The exhaustion, the burnout, the silent pressure to be perfect — it all felt so real. Even though I’m not in medicine, I could relate to that constant push to meet impossible expectations. What struck me most was how the women in this story carry their strength quietly, often breaking down in private but still finding the will to move forward. Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets opened my eyes to the emotional cost of ambition — and the quiet courage it takes to survive it.

[James Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t prepared for how emotional this book would be. What started as a story about mentorship and medicine turned into something far deeper. Dr. Hoslin’s guidance and compassion toward her students were beautiful to read — she became the anchor in their storm, helping them find strength when everything else fell apart. The twists and turns were completely unexpected; there were moments that genuinely made me tear up. I didn’t expect to cry while reading a medical drama, but Rose Mary Stiffin made every struggle feel so personal. This book reminded me how much one mentor, one kind word, can change someone’s entire path. Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets is full of heart, truth, and raw humanity. It left me emotionally drained — but in the best possible way.

[Zara Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical at first. I wasn’t sure if I’d connect with a story about five medical students balancing friendship and pressure, but somewhere in the middle, the book completely won me over. The way Rose Mary Stiffin portrays female friendship under stress feels so real — the loyalty, the jealousy, the quiet moments of comfort when everything seems to fall apart. The tension between support and competition reminded me of how complex real friendships can be when life gets difficult. By the end, I found myself emotionally invested in each of their journeys, especially how their secrets tested their bonds. What started as simple curiosity turned into a story that genuinely moved me. The ending stayed with me long after I closed the book.

[Tara Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets because I was drawn to its message about ambition and what it really means to succeed. I’m so glad I found this gem on Amazon. From the first few chapters, I realized it’s not just about medical students chasing their dreams — it’s about the emotional cost of wanting more and the strength it takes to face your own truth. Rose Mary Stiffin captures that fine line between determination and self-destruction so honestly that it made me reflect on my own ambitions. What I loved most was how deep every character felt — flawed, hopeful, and trying their best. Everyone should read this book. It’s powerful, heartfelt, and full of lessons about resilience and honesty that stay with you long after you finish.

[Edward Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who’s been through higher education, this novel hit close to home. The pressure, competition, and emotional exhaustion felt so real. But what stood out most were the friendships between these women—imperfect, loyal, and full of love. Their secrets reminded me how every person carries a story behind the smile. I appreciated how Rose Mary Stiffin gave each character her own voice and struggles, showing that brilliance can coexist with vulnerability. It’s an inspiring story about pushing through fear, finding purpose, and learning that success isn’t just about achievement—it’s about healing, too.

[Faith Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets is one of those books that makes you stop and think about your own life. It’s filled with emotion, challenges, and the quiet power of self-discovery. I loved how each woman’s secret revealed something universal—fear, guilt, love, and redemption. The story shows that even the most brilliant people struggle, and that’s okay. I found myself reflecting on my own past choices and the people who helped me grow. Rose Mary Stiffin delivers a heartfelt, thought-provoking novel about sisterhood, ambition, and learning to forgive yourself. It’s powerful, uplifting, and beautifully written.

[Sophia Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets is a powerful and emotional read that dives deep into what it means to chase success while holding your life together. I was drawn to Dr. Hoslin immediately—her strength, compassion, and quiet struggle felt so real. The students she mentors each face their own demons, and the book shows how secrets can both protect and destroy us. I appreciated how it didn’t shy away from issues like diversity, burnout, and moral choices in medicine. Rose Mary Stiffin writes with intelligence and empathy, making every chapter feel raw and authentic. It’s not just a medical drama—it’s a story about the courage it takes to be seen, heard, and healed.

[Finley Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an intense and beautifully layered story! This book reminded me of how ambition often hides pain and how mentorship can change lives. The mix of medical realism, personal struggle, and suspense kept me hooked. I especially loved how Dr. Hoslin navigates her role as a mentor while facing her own challenges—she’s inspiring yet imperfect, which made her feel so authentic. Each of the five students represents a different side of what it means to be strong, and their secrets hit hard. Five Stethoscopes, 6 Secrets made me reflect on my own career pressures and the importance of compassion in competitive environments. A smart, emotional, and thought-provoking read.

[Donald Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book pulled me in from the first chapter. I loved how it showed women in medicine not as flawless heroes but as real people with ambition, doubt, and secrets. The mix of science and emotion felt authentic and relatable. I admired Dr. Hoslin’s strength and the way she mentored her students through challenges that weren’t just academic but deeply personal. It reminded me how success often hides pain, and that sometimes the biggest battles are the ones no one sees. A beautifully layered story about resilience, truth, and the courage to keep going when life gets complicated.

[Selena Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect this book to be so emotional. What begins as a story about medical students becomes a moving exploration of identity, mentorship, and the weight of secrets. The writing feels intimate, as if you’re overhearing confessions from people you’ve come to love. It made me reflect on the mentors who changed my life and how trust and honesty can shape someone’s future. This isn’t just a story about medicine—it’s about humanity, the unseen struggles behind ambition, and the quiet power of compassion. A wonderful read that lingers long after the last page.

[Leonardo Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved about this book is how it balances intellect with heart. The medical setting is fascinating, but it’s the emotional depth that makes it unforgettable. Each woman’s journey feels raw and real—full of hope, guilt, and determination. I found myself relating to their fears of not being enough, even when they were succeeding. It reminded me that we all carry secrets, and sometimes sharing them is the first step to freedom. Rose Mary Stiffin writes with grace and empathy, capturing how women lift each other up even when the world weighs them down.

[Eric Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an eye-opener about what women—especially women of color—face in demanding fields like medicine. It’s not just about studying or surviving; it’s about finding strength in vulnerability. I admired how Dr. Hoslin guided her students not only as a teacher but as someone who understood the personal cost of ambition. The writing felt honest, sometimes painful, but always full of heart. I walked away thinking about mentorship, integrity, and the hidden parts of ourselves we try to protect. A deeply relatable, empowering story that reminds you that courage doesn’t always look loud.

[Kevin Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rose Stiffin’s “Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets” offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of medical training, highlighting the personal and professional challenges faced by six female protagonists. As an educator, this novel resonated deeply with me, especially the character of Dr. Hoslin. Dr. Hoslin’s character embodies the dedication, passion, and challenges faced by educators. Her secret, tied to personal sacrifices and professional pressures, adds depth to her role as a mentor and guide. Her strong personality in the face of stereotypes, racism, and other societal norms truly made me look up to her as a role model. I love that she never compromised her principles for other people, be it for career or for love.

The novel’s themes of perseverance, identity, and the complexities of human relationships are skillfully woven into the plot, making it a thought-provoking read. Stiffin’s writing is both eloquent and accessible, drawing the reader into the characters’ lives and experiences. This novel is a testament to the strength and determination required to overcome adversity and achieve one’s dreams, making it an inspiring and captivating read for anyone interested in the medical field or in stories of personal growth.

[Joseph Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets” by Rose Stiffin is a beautifully crafted novel that delves into the lives of six women pursuing their dreams of becoming medical doctors. Each secret unveiled added depth and intrigue, making the book hard to put down. The friendship and rivalry between the students were depicted authentically, showing both the support and competition inherent in such a demanding environment. One particular character that stood out to me was Candi, whose combative and antagonistic personality make her quite unlikeable to many. However, delving deeper into her thought processes, I realized just how relatable she is in her insecurities hidden behind her barbs and thorns. Many of us hide behind defence mechanisms of pulling others down to feel better about ourselves and Stiffin beautifully showcases that human nature in this character.
Rose Stiffin captures the essence of medical training, making it a must-read for anyone in the field or considering it. The book is not just about the science and the grind; it’s about the people behind the stethoscopes, their dreams, fears, and the secrets they keep. This novel is a compelling mix of drama, emotion, and inspiration.

[Tyler Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets" by Rose Stiffin is a rich, character-driven novel, and Candice Gordon is a standout character that sparked lively discussions in our book club. Candi’s ambition to find a cure for cancer is both naive and deeply moving, highlighting her youthful optimism and determination. However, her snarky and antagonistic attitude towards Amaryllis and her other peers also earned her quite a few criticisms. Especially with that part where she snatched someone else’s man that totally went against the girl code, or so most of the girls in our club claimed. But delving deeper, we noticed her insecurities and fragility hidden behind her mean remarks and borderline evil deeds. Her secret, a hidden fear of failure, adds depth to her character and makes her journey even more compelling. Stiffin captures Candi’s exuberance and vulnerability beautifully, making her a character that we could all root for even while secretly hating her a little.

If your book club is looking for a novel with complex characters that drive poignant discussions between the members, Rose Stiffin’s "Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets" is the one to go.

[David Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets" is a touching and insightful novel that really resonated with me. Rose Stiffin’s portrayal of the six female protagonists is both realistic and inspiring, especially the story of Amaryllis Jones. Even with a dark childhood that one wouldn’t even wish on their worst enemies, Amaryllis was still able to reach where she is now because of her own talent and smarts. I can’t say her methods of survival with her siblings were correct but I do believe they were necessary and as long as a person is alive, there is hope.

I’m not sure if Rose Stiffin meant for Amaryllis’ story to be like Cinderella’s but it did remind me that all we ever need is one chance to break out of the situation we are in. And although the past may plague us, it can no longer hurt us as long as we don’t let it. This book is a beautiful reminder of the strength it takes to pursue one’s dreams and the importance of having a supportive community. It also shows the readers that one must be ready to face any challenges when pursuing their dreams. If it wasn’t hard to achieve, then it probably wasn’t worth it.

[Haley Saxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a medical student, "Five Stethoscopes 6 Secrets" resonated deeply with me. Dr. Hoslin's portrayal as a driven yet compassionate educator mirrors the mentors who shape our careers. Her secret, buried under layers of professionalism, reveals the human side of those we look up to, reminding us of the fragility hidden behind their authority. Her motherly love for her students also made me feel quite sentimental towards my current mentors, remembering all the time and effort they spent to help me press closer towards my goals.

The novel dives deep into themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of excellence. The author’s background in biochemistry also adds authenticity to the medical aspects, making the reader feel immersed in the world of medical academia. The interpersonal relationships and personal growth of each character are intricately woven into the narrative, making it a compelling read from start to finish. This novel is a testament to the power of dreams, resonating with anyone who has ever faced adversity while striving for success.