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A review by mackenzierm
Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 by Lisa Unger
3.0
Maverick is a daredevil and extreme adventurer who is hosting an extreme game of hide-and-seek on Falco Island. As the players gather, the game quickly spirals into a chilling test of survival as a storm rages and a deadly threat stalks the contestants, turning the game into something far more sinister. Adele is a single mother who is determined to protect her children at any cost. This game of hide-and-seek is the entry point to a web of deceptions and intrigue… will she be able to make it through the game and return to her family?
CLOSE YOUR EYES AND COUNT TO 10 is a book that was high on my list of anticipated reads, but unfortunately, did not live up to my expectations.
That said, let’s get into what worked and what didn’t. I really enjoyed the isolated and atmospheric setting of Falco Island. Add in the concept of a high stakes reality TV show premise with a seemingly underdog main character, and it sounds like you have a winner. Tension quickly builds from the outset and the inclement weather adds another dimension to the eerie setting, making Falco Island feel like a character in its own merit.
Adele is the main character, and narrator, of this novel with alternate chapters in other key characters’ viewpoints. Each character is vivid, well-defined, and realistic, but Adele is the most tangible. Her determination and courage were evident and inspiring. She’s also very relatable, making it easy to become immersed in her POV.
I enjoyed the critique on social media and its impact, particularly the exploitation of one’s struggles for entertainment, that’s explored within these pages. The plot is action-packed with short chapters that served to hold my interest right until the end. There’s also plenty of drama and lies spread through the novel, serving to up the tension. I did find the middle part of the book is where it bogged down, but it soon picks up, leading to a very intriguing ending.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Park Row, for the opportunity to read this advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
CLOSE YOUR EYES AND COUNT TO 10 is a book that was high on my list of anticipated reads, but unfortunately, did not live up to my expectations.
That said, let’s get into what worked and what didn’t. I really enjoyed the isolated and atmospheric setting of Falco Island. Add in the concept of a high stakes reality TV show premise with a seemingly underdog main character, and it sounds like you have a winner. Tension quickly builds from the outset and the inclement weather adds another dimension to the eerie setting, making Falco Island feel like a character in its own merit.
Adele is the main character, and narrator, of this novel with alternate chapters in other key characters’ viewpoints. Each character is vivid, well-defined, and realistic, but Adele is the most tangible. Her determination and courage were evident and inspiring. She’s also very relatable, making it easy to become immersed in her POV.
I enjoyed the critique on social media and its impact, particularly the exploitation of one’s struggles for entertainment, that’s explored within these pages. The plot is action-packed with short chapters that served to hold my interest right until the end. There’s also plenty of drama and lies spread through the novel, serving to up the tension. I did find the middle part of the book is where it bogged down, but it soon picks up, leading to a very intriguing ending.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher, Park Row, for the opportunity to read this advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.