Is "Close Your Eyes and Count to 10" by Lisa Unger the Darkest Survival Thriller of the Year?
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If you love psychological thrillers packed with deadly games, chilling secrets, and a remote island setting, you’ll want to add Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 by Lisa Unger to your reading list. This gripping novel takes the classic game of hide-and-seek and transforms it into a terrifying battle for survival, where trust is scarce and danger lurks around every corner. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the plot, characters, themes, and why this book is a must-read for fans of suspense and survival stories.
The Premise: Deadly Games on a Remote Island
Imagine being invited to an exclusive event on a remote island, where the prize is $1 million and the challenge is an extreme game of hide-and-seek. That’s the setup for Lisa Unger’s latest thriller. Maverick Dillan, a charismatic daredevil and social media sensation, gathers a group of influencers, survivalists, and thrill-seekers on Falcao Island. What starts as a social media stunt quickly spirals into a nightmare as a raging storm cuts the island off from the outside world and a deadly threat begins stalking the contestants.
The game’s rules are simple: hide, survive, and make it to the count of ten. But as the storm intensifies and the body count rises, the players realize this is no ordinary competition. The line between the virtual world and real life blurs, and the stakes become a matter of life and death.
Meet the Main Character: Adele
At the heart of the story is Adele, a single mother with a troubled past and a fierce determination to protect her children. After her husband’s crimes left her family ostracized, Adele reinvented herself as an “I Will Survive” influencer, sharing her boxing skills and resilience online. When her teenage son encourages her to join the game for the million-dollar prize, Adele sees a chance to secure her family’s future.
But Adele soon discovers that the game is far more dangerous than she imagined. Trapped on the island, she must use her wits, strength, and instincts to survive not just the physical challenges, but also the psychological mind games and betrayals that unfold. Her journey is both a fight for survival and a test of trust—can she rely on anyone but herself?
Supporting Cast: Motives, Secrets, and Tension
The novel features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motives and secrets. From thrill-seeking influencers to desperate survivalists, every player brings something unique to the table. Lisa Unger skillfully juggles multiple points of view, giving readers insight into the fears, ambitions, and backstories that drive each contestant.
This multi-perspective approach keeps the tension high and the stakes personal. As the storm rages and alliances shift, readers are left guessing who can be trusted and who might be hiding deadly intentions. The sense of paranoia and claustrophobia is heightened by the island’s isolation and the relentless pace of the game.
Themes: Social Media, Survival, and Human Nature
One of the most thought-provoking aspects of Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 is its critique of social media culture. The game is designed as a viral event, with contestants selected for their online followings and ability to entertain an audience. Unger explores how social media can exploit personal struggles for entertainment, blurring the line between reality and performance.
The novel also delves into themes of survival, trust, and human nature under extreme pressure. As the contestants face physical and psychological threats, their true characters are revealed. The story asks: What are we willing to do to survive? Who do we become when the rules no longer apply?
Setting: Falcao Island’s Dark Atmosphere
Falcao Island is more than just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right. The island’s remote location, unpredictable weather, and treacherous terrain create a sense of isolation and danger. As a storm traps the contestants, the island becomes a locked-room mystery, with no escape and nowhere to hide.
Lisa Unger’s mastery of atmosphere adds to the suspense. Every chapter is infused with dread, making readers feel the same claustrophobia and urgency as the characters. If you love thrillers with eerie, immersive settings, this book delivers in spades.
Pacing and Structure: A Relentless, Twisty Ride
From the first page, Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. The story is fast-paced and filled with twists, with each chapter revealing new secrets and raising the stakes. Unger’s use of multiple perspectives keeps the narrative fresh and unpredictable, as readers are constantly re-evaluating what they know about each character.
Some readers may find the ending less explosive than expected, but the journey is packed with suspense, drama, and psychological depth. The book’s slow-burn tension and clever twists make it a satisfying read for fans of survival thrillers and locked-room mysteries.
Why You Should Read This Book
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Unique premise: An extreme game of hide-and-seek with deadly consequences.
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Strong protagonist: Adele’s determination and vulnerability make her a compelling lead.
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Multi-layered suspense: Multiple points of view and shifting alliances keep you guessing.
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Atmospheric setting: The remote island and raging storm create a perfect backdrop for tension.
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Social commentary: The novel explores the dark side of social media and the lengths people will go for fame and survival.
If you enjoyed Squid Game, The Hunger Games, or locked-room mysteries with a psychological twist, you’ll find plenty to love in this novel.
About Lisa Unger
Lisa Unger is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author known for her masterful suspense novels. With over twenty books published in thirty-three languages and millions of copies sold, she has earned a reputation as one of the leading voices in psychological thrillers. Her works have been featured on numerous “Best Book” lists and she has received multiple award nominations, including two Edgar Award nominations in the same year—an honor shared by only a few authors like Agatha Christie.
Where to Buy
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Join the Conversation
Have you read Close Your Eyes and Count to 10? What did you think of the deadly game, the island setting, or Adele’s journey? Do you love psychological thrillers with survival elements?
Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let’s discuss your favorite moments, theories, and what you’d do if you were trapped in a deadly game.
Close Your Eyes and Count to 10 is a must-read for anyone who loves dark psychological thrillers, survival stories, and twisty mysteries. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable ride—pick up your copy today and join the deadly game!