Cut Off by Adrianne Finlay

Each contestant has their own reasons—and their own secrets—for joining the new virtual reality show CUT/OFF that places a group of teenagers alone in the wilderness. It’s a simple premise: whoever lasts the longest without “tapping out” wins a cash prize. Not only that, new software creates a totally unprecedented television experience, allowing viewers to touch, see, and live everything along with the contestants. But what happens when “tapping out” doesn’t work and no one comes to save you? What happens when the whole world seemingly disappears while you’re stranded in the wild? Four teenagers must confront their greatest fears, their deepest secrets, and one another when they discover they are truly cut off from reality. Sci-fi, mystery, and romance converge in this high-stakes, fast-paced read that will leave you guessing to the very last moment.

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Well. That wasn't what I was expecting.

This is a very difficult book to review, because I don't want to give away anything about the plot. A lot of the book relies on you not knowing what's happening, at least the first time around. There are hints and clues you'll pick up on a reread.

The only complaint I have, and this is a minor thing, is that the POV switches from chapter to chapter, but there are no headings to tell the reader whose POV we're in now. So about half the time I was reading, thinking we were in one person's POV before discovering it was actually another's. It's a small thing, but it did throw me a few times.

Otherwise, this is an exciting, pacy read. The characters mesh well together, there are SO MANY twists, and even though the sciency stuff was complicated ... oops! Mini spoiler, sorry ... I was able to follow it. Channel your inner Trekkie if you're having problems.

I really enjoyed this read and I'll be looking out for more by this author.