The Compound: A Novel

Overall, I enjoyed this read. It’s a fascinating take on what we are willing to do when the prize is dangling. Made me think about me and questions if I’m a good person. Self esteem was a big thread in this book….so much of self esteem is build by external validation and it’s sad. There is DV in this book that I wasn’t expecting. An interesting premise, definitely gave Love Island but in this post apocalyptic type timeline. I only wished I knew more about the outside world to get more context, I kind of felt like this book isn’t done. There needs to be a part 2…like a reunion special or how we observe love islanders after the villa.

I enjoyed reading the book. It was an interesting concept with great points for social analysis. I was a little disappointed that very little of what happens after the show is discussed. The book told me just enough about the outside world, both directly and indirectly, that I was genuinely curious about the after.

Reality tv dating, dystopian in its very harsh environment (I hope), and very interesting.

Pretty entertaining, like a messed up Love Island, but thought this would be more science fictioney than it was. Either way I enjoyed it and read it within 24 hours.

A woman’s account as she wakes up on a remote compound as part of a big brother/real world/survival reality show. She’s a pretty shallow FMC and I wanted to quit a few times. There were a couple of gruesome scenes that left me cringing. Mostly I felt bad for this woman who had no real goal in life but for the material. 2⭐️ Book #10 in 2026