Book Review - Reality Check by Lizzie Huxley-Jones - #HolidayReading Dom Rep

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Title: Reality Check

Author: Lizzie Huxley-Jones

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Publication Date: 9th April 2026

Rating: 4 Stars

They were meant to be looking for their perfect man, but they can’t ignore the sparks flying on and off screen.

Wedded Bliss is everyone’s favourite reality TV show where couples match, marry and compete for a grand prize.

Dolly is in it for money. She doesn’t want a husband, but a partnership launched on international TV could definitely help her influencer career. Model Warren might just be her man. 

Carys is in it for love. It’s not like she’s had much luck in the romance department, so why not trust the show’s matchmakers with her heart? Could handsome veterinarian Patrick be the one?

The tension building between them is as hot as the competition and the two women can’t deny their chemistry. For Carys, it’s an awakening, but any change of plan could ruin everything for Dolly.

Will they find reality TV fame or the reality of love?

Oh I do love a book featuring a reality tv show, and this one had a bit of a novel concept to it. 

With the contestants for the first part not being able to see each other, and having to make judgments from voice instead.

It was really interesting getting to know the various main characters of this novel, who were all so different. 

But it was Dolly and Carys' stories that were the most intriguing,  For they are both lying constantly on camera for various good reasons. 

For this is as much a commentary on how reality tv treats contestants who aren't "normal, and a look at how much contestant care is really involved. 

It is also wonderfully diverse and was a fabulous way to get inside both of their heads, especially Carys.

I really felt for both of these ladies, as they try their hardest to work out just what to do about various things. 

I feel it was great representation in fiction for communities that aren't so regularly featured. 

Overall it was a very enjoyable book and I certainly didn't see the ending coming.  Just brilliant. 

Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.