16 Books Every Reality TV Fan Will Love – PrestigeOnline Malaysia

Admit it, reality TV is like that bag of chips you know you shouldn’t eat, but you just can’t stop. From the endless drama of The bachelor and the downright bizarre meet-cutes of Love is blind to the nerve-wracking tension of Survivors, Reality TV has a firm grip on us and the television industry and has inspired numerous books in the annals of pop culture.

The unpredictable plot twists, the raw, unfiltered look into other people’s lives, and the narratives infused with sexual tension make for unforgettable content. Whatever your reason for watching, reality TV undoubtedly serves up a cocktail of emotions that keeps us glued to our screens. And if you’re a diehard fan, the fun doesn’t have to end when the TV is turned off. Dive into these books for reality TV lovers that will provide the same drama, romance, and suspense in between your binge-watching sessions.

Top books for reality TV fans

1. Here for the Wrong Reasons by Annabel Paulsen and Lydia Wang

Think The bachelorbut with a twist. In the novel, Lauren takes part in a dating show, Hopelessly romanticto boost her social media presence, not with a handsome man in front of her, but with the influence that gives her the proverbial walk-in closet. Krystin, on the other hand, has her husband wish list ready. All the drama, awkward encounters, and plenty of behind-the-scenes chaos are in store. If you’re looking for a queer, hilarious read that will keep you hooked, this is it!

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2. A Perfect Pair by Ruth Ware

Five couples on a deserted island competing against each other in a reality show; sounds fun, right? Not when a storm rolls in and things take a deadly turn. This film is for thriller fans who love a good plot twist. The contestants’ alliances are tested as their survival instincts kick in, and what was meant to be a game of love and strategy becomes a fight for life. Ruth Ware delivers a gripping story that will keep you guessing until the last page. A cross between Survivors And The traitors, This 2024 release is a tribute to Agatha Christie’s classic And then there were none left.

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3. The Chicken Sisters by KJ Dell’Antonia

Two family-run chicken restaurants face off in a reality TV showdown. As family secrets come to light, you’ll find yourself rooting for both sides. There’s food, family drama, and a dash of romance. This book is a New York Times bestseller and perfect for fans of reality TV classics like Top chef And Family disputes.

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4. The Villain Edit by Olivia Ford

Jac is a successful author who knows the tropes of a good romance novel. Realizing she could use a larger social media following, she decides to put her expertise to use on the reality show. the 1. Made for the fans of UnrealThis newly released novel delves into the cutthroat world of reality TV production, where one-night stands with producers and on-screen drama are part of the game.

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5. Take the lead from Alexis Daria

Professional dancer Gina Morales is paired with Stone Nielson from an Alaskan wilderness show. Sparks fly both on and off the dance floor, but their romance could cost her her career. This book for reality TV fans reminds you Dancing with the stars, but with a spicy note.

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6. Love and other disasters by Anita Kelly

Dahlia Woodson competes on Chef’s specialty and falls in love with the show’s first nonbinary contestant, London Parker. Their budding romance amidst a high-stakes culinary drama is as sweet as it is intense. Kelly’s narrative sensitively explores themes of identity and acceptance, making it a standout work in the romance genre for reality TV fans.

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7. Watch Me by Lauren Barnholdt

Ally moves into a house with strangers for a while Big Brother-style show. As her every move is filmed, she struggles to maintain her long-distance relationship while developing feelings for a roommate. Barnholdt’s novel captures the complexities of life under constant surveillance and tackles themes such as privacy, trust, and the influence of reality TV on personal relationships.

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8. Jessica Knoll’s Favorite Sister

A reality show about self-made millionaires takes a dark turn when one of the contestants is murdered. The novel delves into the chaotic world of reality TV fame and the dark secrets behind the glamorous facade. Knoll’s sharp and suspenseful writing style keeps readers guessing until the end, revealing the ruthless ambition, jealousy and lengths people will go to for fame.

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9. Managing the Matthews by Haleigh Wenger

Kell Simmons manages three Hollywood star brothers and becomes entangled in dramas both real and fake. As her reality show grows in popularity, Kell must decide how much of the spotlight she really wants. Wenger’s novel offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of unscripted dramas and sheds light on the challenges and pressures faced by those in the spotlight. The plot is a gripping and emotional story of love, loyalty and the blurred lines between reality and performance. When Keeping up with the Kardashians is your reality TV vibe, then this 2024 IPPY Award Gold Medal winner is for you!

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10. Beneath the Marigolds by Emily C. Whitson

Ann Stone infiltrates an exclusive singles retreat to find her missing friend Reese. As she digs deeper, she suspects the retreat is a front for a reality dating show with sinister undertones ranging from extravagant dresses and endless interviews to even more bizarre first dates. Whitson’s gripping thriller explores friendship and trust with a The Truman Show-like background.

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11. Death Warrant by Bryan Johnston

Frankie Percival agrees to be killed on a reality TV show to save her brother from financial ruin. Her memory is wiped, and she is unaware that her life is at stake in this dark, suspenseful read. This novel by Bryan Johnston is a chilling debriefing of the extremes to which people go for money and fame. Reminiscent of The Squid GamesThis novel is a thought-provoking and intense read that raises questions about the ethics of reality TV and the value of human life. In addition to his credentials, author Johnson was a television and video producer for nearly three decades, during which time he received a whopping 11 Emmys as well as several other national awards.

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12. For Real by Alison Cherry

Sisters Claire and Miranda take part in a Amazing race-like competition to defeat Miranda’s unfaithful ex. Their plans are thwarted when the show takes an unexpected romantic turn, mixing adventure with personal feuds. Cherry’s novel is a fun and fast-paced read, full of twists and turns that keep readers hooked. The story is a delightful mix of adventure, romance, and sibling rivalry set against the backdrop of a high-stakes reality competition.

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13. Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

After a plane crash, teenage beauty pageant contestants are stranded on a deserted island, where they must use their wits to survive. This thrilling novel combines elements of Survivors with a powerful message about empowerment. Bray’s sharp and witty writing style brings the characters to life and makes the story a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of feminism, identity and survival.

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14. Warcross by Marie Lu

In a world dominated by virtual reality, hacker Emika Chen inadvertently becomes part of the Warcross games. She must uncover a conspiracy that threatens the fabric of this high-stakes competition. Presenting the ultimate fusion of science fiction and reality TV, the story is set in a near-future world where technology dominates everyday life. Emika’s journey from hacker to celebrity in the Warcross games is full of danger, intrigue, and unexpected alliances. The book makes interesting arguments for the ethical implications of technology and is an excellent read for fans of reality TV. A second part, titled Wildcard was also published by the New York Times Bestselling author.

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15. Space Opera by Catherynne M. Valente

Imagine an intergalactic talent show where Earth must prove its worth through competition. This quirky, humorous novel is America’s Got Talent on a cosmic level, with plenty of laughs and heart. The characters must sing their hearts out to secure humanity’s place in the universe, overcoming bizarre and often hilarious challenges along the way. The novel’s satirical take on reality TV and its commentary on human nature make it an excellent one-off read.

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16. Cinderella is dead by Kalynn Bayron

In this reinterpretation of the legendary Cinderella, girls must compete to be chosen by suitors at a royal ball. Sophia, who has no interest in marriage, seeks to overthrow the oppressive system and find her true love. Bayron’s Cinderella is dead offers a fresh and feminist perspective on the classic fairy tale, set in a dystopian world where tradition and rebellion collide. Sophia’s quest for freedom and love is both empowering and inspiring, making this book a must-read for fans of reality TV and fairy tale retellings.

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Which of these books for reality TV fans have you read?

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