Worth Playing For by Katie Gergel Publishes 4/27/27

 


This was a "Survivor" style second chance romance and I was here for it!  5 Stars


Willa and Bernie are identical twins who decide to switch places when Bernie gets injured and can no longer compete on a reality show for a million dollar prize.  Both sister want to win that money for their mother and their failing board game cafe.  The only problem is Willa has always been the more introvert and less popular twin.  She does not think that she can pull this off even though it is for a great cause.  She ends up traveling to Fiji to compete but ends up running into the guy who broke her heart 8 years ago.  Now she has to pretend that she doesn't know him but she still has lingering feelings for him.  She must figure out not only how to win this reality competition, keep her identity a secret, and somehow not fall in love with Noel again. 


This book was straight up fun.  Willa was smart and strategic but not over her ex.  This added great romantic tension while she was on the island trying to win a million dollars.  I also enjoyed reading about the other competitors.  They each had incredible and unique personalities.  From a no holds bar older woman who had no problem being nude, a middle school teacher beloved by his students, a single mom trying to win for her daughter, a young man who wants to be a vampire, and a rich arrogant young man.  Each brought their style to the competition and made for delightful reading.  I honestly wish I could really watch this show.  


The romance was also on par.  There were flashbacks to Willa and Noel's relationship when they were seniors in high school.  The romance was subtle and not over the top.  I was definitely rooting for the two of them by the end of the book.  It also did not quite fit the typical style we see in romances which I enjoyed.  It was a little different making for a more interesting read. 


I definitely recommend this romance especially if you love reality shows, second chance romance, and just an overall fun book.  I can't wait to read more by this author.

 

Thank you to Dell Books and NetGalley for this ARC.

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