What do you think?
Rate this book
Spotlight #2
Celebrity SOS: Love Survives
I’m a celebrity ... trying to escape the past!
When Katerina Murphy agrees to take part in Celebrity SOS, a reality TV show where celebrities have to fend for themselves in the Alaskan wilderness, she’s up for the challenge. But then she locks eyes with fellow contestant Finn Drayson of 1Dream boy band fame and realises that the show is going to push her further from her comfort zone than she ever imagined.
After all, Finn wasn’t just Katerina’s co-star in the school play adaptation of Breakfast at Tiffany’s where she discovered her acting confidence, he was also her first love – and the first boy to break her heart. Even years later, the secret kisses and shared packets of crisps on park benches are never far from her mind.
Will award-winning actress Katerina Murphy’s talents stretch to staying composed in the face of Arctic winds and blasts from the past?
When Katerina Murphy agrees to take part in Celebrity SOS, a reality TV show where celebrities have to fend for themselves in the Alaskan wilderness, she’s up for the challenge. But then she locks eyes with fellow contestant Finn Drayson of 1Dream boy band fame and realises that the show is going to push her further from her comfort zone than she ever imagined.
After all, Finn wasn’t just Katerina’s co-star in the school play adaptation of Breakfast at Tiffany’s where she discovered her acting confidence, he was also her first love – and the first boy to break her heart. Even years later, the secret kisses and shared packets of crisps on park benches are never far from her mind.
Will award-winning actress Katerina Murphy’s talents stretch to staying composed in the face of Arctic winds and blasts from the past?
- GenresContemporary Romance
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2021
7 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Helen Buckley
9 books25 followersEver since I was little I wanted to be a writer, to turn daydreams into books. Star in the Shadows is my first novel and I've signed a three-book contract with Choc Lit publishers to bring you more contemporary romances. I'm fascinated by fame, in love with Happy Ever Afters, and enthralled by slow-burn romances. I squeeze in time to write around looking after my two sons. Find out more about me on my website www.buckleybooks.org
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 18, 2022
With another Buckley novel of the ‘Spotlight’ series out soon, I thought it only best to crack on with the second book that I have yet to read. This book does not disappoint and it certainly one you can read without any knowledge of the other stories. (And I am proof of this, having read this series completely out of order!)
Like the other books, this turns a known television program into a romance story and this time it is the turn of the famous Australian outback show of I’m a Celebrity… But, as Buckley does best, she twists this theme into something new; in this case, the celebrities are having to survive the harsh and snowy climes of Alaska. Ditch the bikinis and tans, we are in for a snowy ride and plenty of layers are required – it’s a perfect read for the chilly winter months!
Not all of the book is about the television show. True, readers are immersed in the bubble of the survival program and I felt as isolated as the celebrities taking part. No indication is given about how the participants are being received by the public and I found myself yearning to see where the support swayed after the different days on the show. However, Buckley makes it clear that this is just the start of the main story, where we see Katerina and Finn’s relationship face new struggles and challenges.
The narrative is initially divided into present day and when Katerina and Finn were growing up, detailing their fledging relationship and revealing the history between the two characters. After the Alaskan adventure, the two don’t cut off their connection and further difficulties show that Katerina and Finn are not going to get an easy ride. Coupled with the fact that there is a lot of fall-out from the reality program, both celebrities see their lives change and push them further apart.
I found this novel unpredictable at key moments. Whilst I could foresee how the story would eventually close, I thought Buckley’s plot development was fresh and interesting. Yes, this is a sweet romance story, but love does not come easily for the two protagonists. Furthermore, I liked the flashbacks to add further detail to Katerina and Finn, as well as the fact that the Alaskan wilderness does not dominate the narrative. Constantly switching between the two characters meant that you got a true connection with both Katerina and Finn, and I liked seeing how their feelings altered over the story.
I have enjoyed Buckley’s writing so far and am looking forward to the new release coming soon. This is a gentle, sweet romance story that you can easily relax in to. Not being very long, this is perfect for a bit of escapism with guaranteed love, challenges, and even a bear along the way!
With thanks to ChocLit for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Like the other books, this turns a known television program into a romance story and this time it is the turn of the famous Australian outback show of I’m a Celebrity… But, as Buckley does best, she twists this theme into something new; in this case, the celebrities are having to survive the harsh and snowy climes of Alaska. Ditch the bikinis and tans, we are in for a snowy ride and plenty of layers are required – it’s a perfect read for the chilly winter months!
Not all of the book is about the television show. True, readers are immersed in the bubble of the survival program and I felt as isolated as the celebrities taking part. No indication is given about how the participants are being received by the public and I found myself yearning to see where the support swayed after the different days on the show. However, Buckley makes it clear that this is just the start of the main story, where we see Katerina and Finn’s relationship face new struggles and challenges.
The narrative is initially divided into present day and when Katerina and Finn were growing up, detailing their fledging relationship and revealing the history between the two characters. After the Alaskan adventure, the two don’t cut off their connection and further difficulties show that Katerina and Finn are not going to get an easy ride. Coupled with the fact that there is a lot of fall-out from the reality program, both celebrities see their lives change and push them further apart.
I found this novel unpredictable at key moments. Whilst I could foresee how the story would eventually close, I thought Buckley’s plot development was fresh and interesting. Yes, this is a sweet romance story, but love does not come easily for the two protagonists. Furthermore, I liked the flashbacks to add further detail to Katerina and Finn, as well as the fact that the Alaskan wilderness does not dominate the narrative. Constantly switching between the two characters meant that you got a true connection with both Katerina and Finn, and I liked seeing how their feelings altered over the story.
I have enjoyed Buckley’s writing so far and am looking forward to the new release coming soon. This is a gentle, sweet romance story that you can easily relax in to. Not being very long, this is perfect for a bit of escapism with guaranteed love, challenges, and even a bear along the way!
With thanks to ChocLit for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2021
Katerina hasn’t seen Finn for 13 years but then they are brought together again when they go on a survival reality show in Alaska. I liked the way that the book was in the present day and then would transport back to their teenage years when they first met.
Kat comes from a strict catholic family and Finn comes from a broken home with a Mum who suffers mental health problems but when they are brought together for leading parts in the school play and start to rehearse together they have a chemistry that despite the years apart hasn’t faded.
There are some interesting supporting characters that are in Alaska with them and you can imagine yourself with them trying to source food and survive in the harsh elements.
However Kat has a secret that she doesn’t want Finn to know about but unfortunately the secret comes out for not only Finn to see but all the viewers too and the book then explores the repercussions of the revelation when they leave Alaska.
I really enjoyed this book and although I didn’t particularly warm to Kat at first by the end of the book I felt I understood her more but I adored Finn with his vulnerabilities and hard upbringing.
They survived Alaska but does love really survive especially when truths are revealed. I would strongly suggest reading this book to find out.
Thank you to Choc-Lit for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review, which is completely my own.
Kat comes from a strict catholic family and Finn comes from a broken home with a Mum who suffers mental health problems but when they are brought together for leading parts in the school play and start to rehearse together they have a chemistry that despite the years apart hasn’t faded.
There are some interesting supporting characters that are in Alaska with them and you can imagine yourself with them trying to source food and survive in the harsh elements.
However Kat has a secret that she doesn’t want Finn to know about but unfortunately the secret comes out for not only Finn to see but all the viewers too and the book then explores the repercussions of the revelation when they leave Alaska.
I really enjoyed this book and although I didn’t particularly warm to Kat at first by the end of the book I felt I understood her more but I adored Finn with his vulnerabilities and hard upbringing.
They survived Alaska but does love really survive especially when truths are revealed. I would strongly suggest reading this book to find out.
Thank you to Choc-Lit for the opportunity to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review, which is completely my own.
November 13, 2021
Katerina Murphy is a very successful actress on British TV and has agreed to take part in Celebrity SOS, where a group of celebrities are left in a cabin in Alaska to fend for themselves (think I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here but with snow). She's really looking forward to challenging herself and learning new skills, until she comes face-to-face with her childhood sweetheart Finn Drayson, former member of boyband 1Dream. He broke her heart when they were teenagers but he's just as handsome as ever.
Finn only agreed to do Celebrity SOS because he had invested unwisely and is being pursued by the taxman for a lot of money. SInce 1Dream split up he hasn't managed to get his solo career off the ground and he hopes that the show might give him some exposure. When he sees Katerina he is delighted, she may have broken his heart all those years ago but she is as charming as ever.
But as we the readers find out gradually what happened all those years ago the secrets are revealed in the most shocking way on live TV - and Finn and Katerina's burgeoning rekindling of their romance is shattered.
I really liked this, I liked Finn and Katerina, I liked that the big reveal doesn't come right at the end of the book, instead there is a fair amount of dealing with the aftermath.
Overall, I thought this was fun and sweet and a great read.
Finn only agreed to do Celebrity SOS because he had invested unwisely and is being pursued by the taxman for a lot of money. SInce 1Dream split up he hasn't managed to get his solo career off the ground and he hopes that the show might give him some exposure. When he sees Katerina he is delighted, she may have broken his heart all those years ago but she is as charming as ever.
But as we the readers find out gradually what happened all those years ago the secrets are revealed in the most shocking way on live TV - and Finn and Katerina's burgeoning rekindling of their romance is shattered.
I really liked this, I liked Finn and Katerina, I liked that the big reveal doesn't come right at the end of the book, instead there is a fair amount of dealing with the aftermath.
Overall, I thought this was fun and sweet and a great read.
July 30, 2021
I don’t think I could ever be cut out for an extreme reality show where I’m starved for food. I’ll happily just watch them instead. I’d quite like to see this one in real life; the idea of a bunch of people (wouldn’t have to be celebs) in the middle of nowhere, Alaska foraging for their food.
I really enjoyed the story built around this premise. Katerina goes on the show not expecting her teenage love to also be there. The producers weren’t expecting it either and when secrets are revealed it all kicks off. You start to see the twist coming but the enjoyment is seeing how everyone deals with it. I liked that there nearly wasn’t a happy ending.
It flips back and forth between now and the past as we see how the the teens got together & the events of Alaska and beyond as they play out. I liked the characters, I quite liked the supporting ones too. Finn is a likeable hero although when he started singing in the cabin I had Peter Andre jungle flashbacks and I could do without that again 🙂
It’s an enjoyable romance that I read in one afternoon. A fun read if you need some romance in your reading life
I really enjoyed the story built around this premise. Katerina goes on the show not expecting her teenage love to also be there. The producers weren’t expecting it either and when secrets are revealed it all kicks off. You start to see the twist coming but the enjoyment is seeing how everyone deals with it. I liked that there nearly wasn’t a happy ending.
It flips back and forth between now and the past as we see how the the teens got together & the events of Alaska and beyond as they play out. I liked the characters, I quite liked the supporting ones too. Finn is a likeable hero although when he started singing in the cabin I had Peter Andre jungle flashbacks and I could do without that again 🙂
It’s an enjoyable romance that I read in one afternoon. A fun read if you need some romance in your reading life
July 27, 2021
Starts with Kat, a famous actress, who is in Alaska filming a reality TV survival show with a group of fellow celebrities including her ex Finn (a famous musician from boyband 1Dream). She’s walked out as it has all gone wrong. Seeing Finn after all these years is a shock and both Kat and Finn are having to cope with long lost feelings resurfacing.
The story then goes back & forth between now & when Kat & Finn were at school. They were in a school play together (playing the lead roles in Breakfast at Tiffany’s). He was a popular boy, but she was shy. They fell in love despite the difference in their backgrounds (Finn lived in a grotty flat with his alcoholic, mentally ill mother – Kat lived in a middle-class house with both parents happily married).
There are a couple of clever twists and the story keeps you gripped until the end. Loved reading this and I thought it was very well written.
The story then goes back & forth between now & when Kat & Finn were at school. They were in a school play together (playing the lead roles in Breakfast at Tiffany’s). He was a popular boy, but she was shy. They fell in love despite the difference in their backgrounds (Finn lived in a grotty flat with his alcoholic, mentally ill mother – Kat lived in a middle-class house with both parents happily married).
There are a couple of clever twists and the story keeps you gripped until the end. Loved reading this and I thought it was very well written.
July 11, 2021
There are no venomous nasties in Northern Alaska and this might have influenced actress Katerina Murphy in her decision to appear in the reality show, Celebrity SOS, competing in a wilderness survival show in Alaska will test the resilience of each competitor. Arriving at the film location, Katerina is shocked to discover one of the other contestants is Finn Drayson, her boyfriend from her school drama class who she hasn't seen for 13 years. It's a massive challenge for ten people to feed themselves by hunting, foraging and fishing in the cold, hostile environment, Katerina has the added strain of constantly using all her acting skills to hide her emotions from Finn and the all-seeing cameras.
After filming ends the contestants leave snowy Alaska and return home, this is when Katerina's life becomes drastically complicated.
Containing interesting twists and turns with believable and likeable characters.
After filming ends the contestants leave snowy Alaska and return home, this is when Katerina's life becomes drastically complicated.
Containing interesting twists and turns with believable and likeable characters.
August 12, 2021
A survival show in Alaska… pure fun, right?
Katerina Murphy is determined to make a success of her participation on a reality TV show. In Celebrity SOS she and the other participants have to take care of themselves in the wilderness that Alaska is known for. Searching for food and keeping the fire going will quickly turn out to be the easier tasks Katerina has to face, because she surely didn’t expect Finn Drayson to be participating too! Not only did Katerina and Finn go the same school, but them starring in the school play adaption of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, was also start of their love for each other, which lead eventually to a heart – broken Katerina. Spending now all this time together, makes Katerina remember of their past and avoiding Finn is nearly impossible. Especially when Finn shows that he is over the moon to see her again. But Katerina must use all her acting talents to keep her feelings and secrets from him… because one secret could be devastating for everyone involved…
If someone would ask me to be part of a reality show, my answer would be an easy “no”. If that specific reality show would be in Alaska, and the contestants would have to fend for themselves, my answer would be “Are you totally out of your mind???” This reviewer needs her luxury, a nice bed, a hot shower and plenty of food!
But I have to admit, I have also this curiosity in me, wanting to see how famous people would cope somewhere out of there comfort zone.
And knowing this author already, I was pretty sure I would love this new book!
I felt the cold the contestants were feeling, the hunger they were facing (okay, I am hungry all the time, so that doesn’t count! 🤣) and the happiness when they all managed to have a somewhat decent meal.
It’s obvious that there is a past between Katerina and Finn, and I found I nice to have those flashbacks, seeing how our younger main characters met and how they relationship evolved to that amazing first love we all had. But as the present shows us, things didn’t end well for this couple, and I was truly intrigued to see what happened to them. I don’t want to give too much away, but I found it typical teenage behaviour and I felt so sorry to read how this beautiful couple separated…
In a typical romantic book, the main characters meet again after so many years, feel that spark and give their love a second chance. But the author put a twist in this story, adding so much more in it than what I expected! When the secret came out, I understood Finn and the way he behaved.
Although I have to say, what happened after the show, I found it harder to grasp. Because suddenly we see a total different Finn, doing things that wouldn’t match with his true character. However when it truly matters, we see the Finn we all started to like and even love a little bit!
Katerina facing the consequences of her secret revealed was difficult. Because I always kept in mind where she was coming from, and being treated like that seemed a bit over the top.
And when all seems truly lost, the author managed to use her talent/power to make this a story that I completely adored reading!
I thought I knew what I was starting to read, but I found myself totally into the story, wanting to only read the next chapter, but also not wanting to reach the end too quickly, because that would mean to say goodbye to characters that yes, they are famous, but they are also so down to earth, recognizable and so easy to love!
Helen Buckley managed rather easy to climb on the ladder of authors I absolutely want to read each book she writes!
Katerina Murphy is determined to make a success of her participation on a reality TV show. In Celebrity SOS she and the other participants have to take care of themselves in the wilderness that Alaska is known for. Searching for food and keeping the fire going will quickly turn out to be the easier tasks Katerina has to face, because she surely didn’t expect Finn Drayson to be participating too! Not only did Katerina and Finn go the same school, but them starring in the school play adaption of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, was also start of their love for each other, which lead eventually to a heart – broken Katerina. Spending now all this time together, makes Katerina remember of their past and avoiding Finn is nearly impossible. Especially when Finn shows that he is over the moon to see her again. But Katerina must use all her acting talents to keep her feelings and secrets from him… because one secret could be devastating for everyone involved…
If someone would ask me to be part of a reality show, my answer would be an easy “no”. If that specific reality show would be in Alaska, and the contestants would have to fend for themselves, my answer would be “Are you totally out of your mind???” This reviewer needs her luxury, a nice bed, a hot shower and plenty of food!
But I have to admit, I have also this curiosity in me, wanting to see how famous people would cope somewhere out of there comfort zone.
And knowing this author already, I was pretty sure I would love this new book!
I felt the cold the contestants were feeling, the hunger they were facing (okay, I am hungry all the time, so that doesn’t count! 🤣) and the happiness when they all managed to have a somewhat decent meal.
It’s obvious that there is a past between Katerina and Finn, and I found I nice to have those flashbacks, seeing how our younger main characters met and how they relationship evolved to that amazing first love we all had. But as the present shows us, things didn’t end well for this couple, and I was truly intrigued to see what happened to them. I don’t want to give too much away, but I found it typical teenage behaviour and I felt so sorry to read how this beautiful couple separated…
In a typical romantic book, the main characters meet again after so many years, feel that spark and give their love a second chance. But the author put a twist in this story, adding so much more in it than what I expected! When the secret came out, I understood Finn and the way he behaved.
Although I have to say, what happened after the show, I found it harder to grasp. Because suddenly we see a total different Finn, doing things that wouldn’t match with his true character. However when it truly matters, we see the Finn we all started to like and even love a little bit!
Katerina facing the consequences of her secret revealed was difficult. Because I always kept in mind where she was coming from, and being treated like that seemed a bit over the top.
And when all seems truly lost, the author managed to use her talent/power to make this a story that I completely adored reading!
I thought I knew what I was starting to read, but I found myself totally into the story, wanting to only read the next chapter, but also not wanting to reach the end too quickly, because that would mean to say goodbye to characters that yes, they are famous, but they are also so down to earth, recognizable and so easy to love!
Helen Buckley managed rather easy to climb on the ladder of authors I absolutely want to read each book she writes!
August 14, 2021
This is the story of Katerina and Finn, and what a story it is. Their story is told over the course of 22 Chapters (+Prologue). It is also the second story in the Spotlight Series by this author. The first book was called 'Strictly on Ice'.
From the moment readers begin this book they will be hooked. The prologue sets the book up perfectly leaving readers with questions. The answers of which are slowly told over the course of the book. This prologue also peeks the readers interests. Interest will not only be peeked about Katerina and Finn but also their shared history.
Throughout the book the point of view clearly switches between the two main characters, this is brilliant for the reader as they really get a fully rounded story. Not only that but they get the full story from both points of view, which as the book goes on its a really great way to learn what they are feeling.
Another thing to be noted about this book is not only are we in present time but they also go back to the past to help explain the history that these two characters share. This is brilliant and clearly marked when the reader is in the past or present. So not only does the reader get the full 360 story of the present but also the past. This 360 view of the past means that readers get the opportunity to see how everything happened and how things change depending on whose view you are in.
Overall this book was a brilliant addition to the series, and I was so glad that I have read it. Although it did bring the emotions in and had me reaching for the tissues, it also had me rushing back to it anytime I was interrupted. I can't wait to see where this story goes next, but one thing I know for sure is that I can't wait to get my hand on the next one.
From the moment readers begin this book they will be hooked. The prologue sets the book up perfectly leaving readers with questions. The answers of which are slowly told over the course of the book. This prologue also peeks the readers interests. Interest will not only be peeked about Katerina and Finn but also their shared history.
Throughout the book the point of view clearly switches between the two main characters, this is brilliant for the reader as they really get a fully rounded story. Not only that but they get the full story from both points of view, which as the book goes on its a really great way to learn what they are feeling.
Another thing to be noted about this book is not only are we in present time but they also go back to the past to help explain the history that these two characters share. This is brilliant and clearly marked when the reader is in the past or present. So not only does the reader get the full 360 story of the present but also the past. This 360 view of the past means that readers get the opportunity to see how everything happened and how things change depending on whose view you are in.
Overall this book was a brilliant addition to the series, and I was so glad that I have read it. Although it did bring the emotions in and had me reaching for the tissues, it also had me rushing back to it anytime I was interrupted. I can't wait to see where this story goes next, but one thing I know for sure is that I can't wait to get my hand on the next one.
January 8, 2023
It's official, I'm giving up on this series. This started promising, but after the "main reveal" during the show, I just started hating everything about this plotline, because it was just so unrealistic!
July 27, 2021
An enjoyable read, well written and finished off. I am not normally a fan of stories about ‘celebrities’, reality shows and the like, but this one did keep my interest, despite the dodging back and forth in time (another thing I am usually not keen on). The ‘secret’ was very obvious to me early on, so that wasn’t a surprise, but the revelations in the back story were a bit different. There are some sad moments, but we got our HEA (it looked unlikely to me at one point!) so that keeps me sweet. Although I didn’t read it in one session, it didn’t take me long, so definitely worth 4 stars and a recommendation from me.
July 29, 2021
I'm sure Alaska is fascinating but I'm not sure I'd want to have my first attempt at wilderness survival there. Katerina, a successful actress, is braver than me and chooses to be dropped into the wilderness to join a group of celebrities who are going to try to fend for themselves.
Based on a celebrity television show, it would be easy to see Celebrity SOS: Love Survives as a re-run of Strictly on Ice but the tone is very different. The past is again key to the story and the future is uncertain.
I found it really enjoyable and am looking forward to Helen Buckley's next book already. Wrap up warmly before you begin reading, life in the cabin is not for the faint hearted!
Based on a celebrity television show, it would be easy to see Celebrity SOS: Love Survives as a re-run of Strictly on Ice but the tone is very different. The past is again key to the story and the future is uncertain.
I found it really enjoyable and am looking forward to Helen Buckley's next book already. Wrap up warmly before you begin reading, life in the cabin is not for the faint hearted!
July 29, 2021
This is a stunner of a book. It has everything, romance, friendship, location, mystery and a great cast of characters.
Exploring Katerina and Finn's story as it gradually emerges keeps revealing so many other facets that are effecting their current life. The location in Alaska is well described and felt very realistic. Add a prospective girlfriend for Finn into the mix and things step up another gear.
The reality show scenario is well portrayed and seemed believable. I enjoy this book a lot.
Exploring Katerina and Finn's story as it gradually emerges keeps revealing so many other facets that are effecting their current life. The location in Alaska is well described and felt very realistic. Add a prospective girlfriend for Finn into the mix and things step up another gear.
The reality show scenario is well portrayed and seemed believable. I enjoy this book a lot.
July 27, 2021
Adored this story of adventure, love and loss. Katerina and Finn are both fascinating characters thrown together again by a celebrity survival show; the challenges they have to face are both from the frozen landscape and from their pasts. Can they survive both sets of challenges? I loved this story - possibly my favourite read of the year! Highly recommend for both the story and the characters- I couldn’t put it down!
July 29, 2021
Celebrity SOS - loved it, loved it, loved it. Imagine bumping into your first love on a television show with cameras watching your every reaction. Kat and Finn find themselves in that situation, and having spent the last few years trying to fight their feelings for one another and put a lid on their relations, they now fight not to divulge their past to the rest of the contestants. Helen has written another great book, with a story and characters that had me hooked from first page to the last.
April 5, 2022
Another lovely read by Helen Buckley. After reading the first book which I couldn't put down I was looking forward to reading this one. Although a series you can read this one without needing to read the first.
An easy read story which gives you the present day and also dips backwards into the main characters past, which is a lovely touch. I do love a good romance and this didn't disappoint.
An easy read story which gives you the present day and also dips backwards into the main characters past, which is a lovely touch. I do love a good romance and this didn't disappoint.
November 4, 2021
Katerina and Finn end up on a reality TV show by design by the producers. They’re making the best of an uncomfortable situation until a buried secret gets uncovered. This was a great read that reminds us sometimes our past doesn’t stay in the past. Highly recommend!
October 8, 2021
Having greatly enjoyed the author's previous book a few months ago, I was really looking forward to reading this one, and I'm now glad to report I found it very good too.
Only linked to Strictly on Ice by mentions of the main characters and the presence of a secondary one (Carmen, one of the figure skaters), this new novel could just as easily be read first if you happened to be more interested in the story of an actress and a musician unexpectedly reunited in a reality show 13 years after the end of their teenage romance, rather than that of the figure skater and rugby player paired for another show in "book 1".
I was actually much less interested in a survival show (watching people freezing and starving in Alaska didn't appeal) than in the skating show I had loved to follow, so finding out that it didn't last for the entire length of the novel was a relief, and the "Then" sections allowing the reader to gradually find out why both Katerina and Finn consider the other to be the one who broke their heart when they were 16 were very welcome. Not that I disliked the scenes set in Alaska - some were even particularly good, and none as horrible as I feared. Then the aftermath of the show made an interesting second half of story, but I can't really comment on that without spoiler.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Only linked to Strictly on Ice by mentions of the main characters and the presence of a secondary one (Carmen, one of the figure skaters), this new novel could just as easily be read first if you happened to be more interested in the story of an actress and a musician unexpectedly reunited in a reality show 13 years after the end of their teenage romance, rather than that of the figure skater and rugby player paired for another show in "book 1".
I was actually much less interested in a survival show (watching people freezing and starving in Alaska didn't appeal) than in the skating show I had loved to follow, so finding out that it didn't last for the entire length of the novel was a relief, and the "Then" sections allowing the reader to gradually find out why both Katerina and Finn consider the other to be the one who broke their heart when they were 16 were very welcome. Not that I disliked the scenes set in Alaska - some were even particularly good, and none as horrible as I feared. Then the aftermath of the show made an interesting second half of story, but I can't really comment on that without spoiler.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2022
A Celebrity show in the Alaskan wilderness
Katerina & Finn childhood sweethearts last met 13 years when their hearts were broken by their parting
The 10 celebrities have to built a fire & keep it alight
Find food & cook it
The books tells of the time in the ‘show’ how they cope & the story of Kat & Finn
Enjoyable easy read
I read this in paperback
Katerina & Finn childhood sweethearts last met 13 years when their hearts were broken by their parting
The 10 celebrities have to built a fire & keep it alight
Find food & cook it
The books tells of the time in the ‘show’ how they cope & the story of Kat & Finn
Enjoyable easy read
I read this in paperback
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews