Book Review: Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 by Lisa Unger
When I first stumbled upon Close Your Eyes and Count to 10, I was instantly drawn in by the promise of a twisted game of Hide-and-Seek played out on a deserted island. Lisa Unger, known for her gripping narratives, masterfully combines the thrills of modern gaming culture with the intricate lives of its players. As someone who’s often caught up in the whirlwind of social media, the premise felt both intriguing and eerily relatable, and I knew I had to dive in.
Set against the backdrop of Falcao Island, the story follows Maverick Dillan, a charismatic adventure influencer whose creation of this extreme game has garnered a cult following. There’s a palpable sense of suspense as we witness the return of this deadly game, previously marred by tragedy. Meanwhile, we meet single-mom Adele, whose sheer determination to uplift her family drives her to compete, all for that tantalizing million-dollar prize. Her journey is not just about survival but about reclaiming her identity after her husband’s abandonment, and Unger skillfully makes you root for her from page one.
I found the mixed media elements—social media snippets and gamified updates—added a modern layer to the narrative, though occasionally, it felt like a nod to the BookTok audience, veering into exaggerated territory. Nevertheless, this stylistic choice highlighted the pervasive influence of social media on contemporary life. It made me reflect on how critical it is to stay connected, for better or for worse. While some might consider it pandering, I felt it added a fresh twist that kept me engaged.
Unger’s pacing, paired with vivid descriptions of the island—both beautiful and treacherous—created an immersive reading experience. There’s something thrilling about a survival narrative, especially with the added touch of inclement weather that plays a role in raising stakes. However, as the story progressed, a shift in focus to Maverick and his crew pulled me away from the intimacy of Adele’s contest narrative. I found myself wanting more of her heart-stopping experiences rather than the behind-the-scenes drama of the show’s production.
Despite these pacing issues, the audiobook format elevated my reading experience. The narrator embodied Adele’s struggles effortlessly, allowing me to connect deeply with her character. Unger’s writing is fluid and captivating, urging you to turn the pages in anticipation of what comes next. While I wished I could have stayed as invested towards the end as I was in the beginning, the overall ride was undeniably entertaining.
In conclusion, I’d recommend Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 to anyone who enjoys thrillers infused with a gaming trope, particularly those who thrive on the adrenaline of survival stories. Lisa Unger has created an enthralling world that, while not perfect, is filled with moments of genuine connection and fear—a reflection of our complex realities. Whether you’re a fan of her previous works or new to her storytelling, this book will likely leave you contemplating the lengths we go for love, safety, and, above all, a fresh start.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for providing me with a copy to review; I’m excited to explore more of Unger’s literary adventures in the future!
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