What people will do for a taste of fame ~ Sheila

When science-minded Lyla reluctantly agrees to take part in a new reality show, One Perfect Couple, she does it to help her actor boyfriend, Nico, who is certain this is going to be his big break.

Five couples with assorted backgrounds are brought to a remote tropical island to compete and see who will win the title of The Perfect Couple.

Lyla understands going in that this was not a big-budget show; after all, this was the first season, with hopes that sponsors would follow. Yet from the start, the canned food, dry pastries, and cameras not working correctly were a red flag… and in contrast the beautiful sand, amazing blue water, and vibrant colors of the island made up for much of this.

When a severe storm blows in on the first night, while the crew is off island, many of the contestants’ villas take major damage, and leave some with severe injuries, including death. The game participants find themselves in survival mode and must either work together as supplies dwindle and tensions rise, or battle among themselves as they hope that rescue is not too far away. Yet as days turn to weeks, a new sort of reality sets in that this may be where they all die.

Think…. Survivor meets Love Island. While I am a huge fan of Survivor ( never missed a season!), I would never watch Love Island. If you are like me and have no interest in the couple swap shows… You need not worry – while that may have been the plan for Love Island, the wild weather puts a stop to all of that.

Honestly, it was an interesting read. Well done, Author Ruth Ware, for coming in with a unique synopsis ( at least unique to me). Always something I appreciate.

Rated: 3.2 out of 5
Read Author Before: Yes – The Woman In Cabin 1, which most people loved, and I did not
Read Author Again: probably

Themes: Death, Murder, Survival

Book Club Worthy – Yes. The lure of fame as well as society’s interest in Reality TV, especially the ones that involve playing with emotions and love interests. A tropical island theme and the food to go with the read could be anything from canned selections to pastries. Coconut water and fresh coconut, could be fun as well.