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Cut Reality: A Novel
When death washes ashore on reality TV, who's to blame?
"Intelligently conceived and well-executed... A mystery that thoughtfully reflects on the hazy line between suspicion and reckless mania." (Kirkus Reviews)
Join Jason Debord as he seeks clarity following the death of a reality-TV co-star and ends up uncovering criminal conspiracy.
When Jason returned home from competing on Beached he'd lost weight, couldn't sleep, and felt more alone than ever. But, he expected those changes. Jason had no way to predict that one of his fellow competitors would fling himself from a cliff. Unless he didn't.
Jason can't believe it, but the network broadcasts the alleged suicide to the world, so he pushes forward in his own amateur investigation. Met with resistance from the cast and crew, he persists only through the support of his developing romance with Blake, a psychologist who observes alarming similarities between her patient and her partner.
Events in Cut Reality have a variety of interpretations. While under the watchful eye of the public, Jason has to is what he uncovers too coincidental to be true, or so hard to accept because it's his new reality?
Buy Zack Hacker's anticipated debut novel to find out what Jason discovers....
"On the surface, Cut Reality is a murder mystery; but actually it is much more... Highly recommended for those who like their intrigue steeped in philosophical insights and dilemmas." (Midwest Book Review)
"When I heard the premise of Cut Reality, I almost died...and I wouldn't lie about that." (Jonny Fairplay, Survivor contestant and host of Survivor NSFW podcast)
"The perfect genre book at the perfect time." (San Francisco Book Review)
"Intelligently conceived and well-executed... A mystery that thoughtfully reflects on the hazy line between suspicion and reckless mania." (Kirkus Reviews)
Join Jason Debord as he seeks clarity following the death of a reality-TV co-star and ends up uncovering criminal conspiracy.
When Jason returned home from competing on Beached he'd lost weight, couldn't sleep, and felt more alone than ever. But, he expected those changes. Jason had no way to predict that one of his fellow competitors would fling himself from a cliff. Unless he didn't.
Jason can't believe it, but the network broadcasts the alleged suicide to the world, so he pushes forward in his own amateur investigation. Met with resistance from the cast and crew, he persists only through the support of his developing romance with Blake, a psychologist who observes alarming similarities between her patient and her partner.
Events in Cut Reality have a variety of interpretations. While under the watchful eye of the public, Jason has to is what he uncovers too coincidental to be true, or so hard to accept because it's his new reality?
Buy Zack Hacker's anticipated debut novel to find out what Jason discovers....
"On the surface, Cut Reality is a murder mystery; but actually it is much more... Highly recommended for those who like their intrigue steeped in philosophical insights and dilemmas." (Midwest Book Review)
"When I heard the premise of Cut Reality, I almost died...and I wouldn't lie about that." (Jonny Fairplay, Survivor contestant and host of Survivor NSFW podcast)
"The perfect genre book at the perfect time." (San Francisco Book Review)
Audible Audio
Published August 3, 2019
12 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Zack Hacker
9 books302 followersZack Hacker is the USA TODAY and international bestselling author of the historical adventure series AYA AMRANI ADVENTURES, the reality-TV thriller CUT REALITY, and the coming-of-age fantasy saga MAGIC'S EROSION.
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Zack now calls Marrakech, Morocco home, where he lives with his wife and two cats. When not writing, Zack is usually exploring the world with friends, hosting murder mystery parties, or binge-watching reality TV. You can probably find him scribbling notes at the local bar or from the back of a train, transforming something he just heard into a new plot twist.
Connect with Zack, sign up for release notifications, or reach out via his official site at www.zackhacker.com, or follow his adventures on social media @zackhackerwrites.
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Zack now calls Marrakech, Morocco home, where he lives with his wife and two cats. When not writing, Zack is usually exploring the world with friends, hosting murder mystery parties, or binge-watching reality TV. You can probably find him scribbling notes at the local bar or from the back of a train, transforming something he just heard into a new plot twist.
Connect with Zack, sign up for release notifications, or reach out via his official site at www.zackhacker.com, or follow his adventures on social media @zackhackerwrites.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 10, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
I really struggled to get through this book. It dragged on and on for pages and pages with nothing much really happening. There was no drama, no suspense, nothing. And when the “big reveal” finally came, I was left thinking “Really?!?! That’s it????” The main character was so bland and boring, I can’t even imagine how boring his girlfriend’s life must be to want to be with such a dull, one-dimensional guy. I'm honestly shocked at all the 4 & 5 star reviews. Did I read the same book as everyone else did?????
This one is a big no for me.
I really struggled to get through this book. It dragged on and on for pages and pages with nothing much really happening. There was no drama, no suspense, nothing. And when the “big reveal” finally came, I was left thinking “Really?!?! That’s it????” The main character was so bland and boring, I can’t even imagine how boring his girlfriend’s life must be to want to be with such a dull, one-dimensional guy. I'm honestly shocked at all the 4 & 5 star reviews. Did I read the same book as everyone else did?????
This one is a big no for me.
December 17, 2019
( Format : Audiobook )
"Dying for good T.V."
The popular reality T.V.show has been running for 49 airings. This is the fiftieth anniversary edition and there had been speculation that it might be the last: it was amazing that it had survived for so long. Isolated on an island, the group of contestants have to survive hardship and boredom and being voted out in the attempt to be last man standing to win the million dollar prize. With the contest now behind him, but the winner not yet known,.Jason is mentally still on that island, revising what happened and, especially, how did Billy die? They said it was suicide, but was it? Billy had been his friend.
This is a book which sucks in the reader and holds them tight. Written partially in the first person, sometimes as texts between former contestants, even the changing writing styles keep the reader's attention. Simply written in an everyday speaking style, but very effective. The details of the reality show and characters taking part are slowly unfilled as Jason tries to untangle the truth of what happened as he battles with his own fears and perceptions. This book is a joy to hear, especially read as it is, by the talented Alan Carlson, who please t and we'll modu!afterlife further brings Jason to !ife. A fine performance
I was very fortunate in being freely gifted with a complimentary copy of Cut Reality, by the rights holder, following my request via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. I had been attracted by the brief synopsis but the book far surpassed my expectations. Apparently, this is a first novel, so I look forward to many more to come.
A book I happily recommend to anyone with an interest in reality T.V., mystery stories and internal doubts of the individual in a time of stress. Or anyone, really. It is a surprising, yet easy to enjoy, story.
"Dying for good T.V."
The popular reality T.V.show has been running for 49 airings. This is the fiftieth anniversary edition and there had been speculation that it might be the last: it was amazing that it had survived for so long. Isolated on an island, the group of contestants have to survive hardship and boredom and being voted out in the attempt to be last man standing to win the million dollar prize. With the contest now behind him, but the winner not yet known,.Jason is mentally still on that island, revising what happened and, especially, how did Billy die? They said it was suicide, but was it? Billy had been his friend.
This is a book which sucks in the reader and holds them tight. Written partially in the first person, sometimes as texts between former contestants, even the changing writing styles keep the reader's attention. Simply written in an everyday speaking style, but very effective. The details of the reality show and characters taking part are slowly unfilled as Jason tries to untangle the truth of what happened as he battles with his own fears and perceptions. This book is a joy to hear, especially read as it is, by the talented Alan Carlson, who please t and we'll modu!afterlife further brings Jason to !ife. A fine performance
I was very fortunate in being freely gifted with a complimentary copy of Cut Reality, by the rights holder, following my request via Audiobook Boom. Thank you so much. I had been attracted by the brief synopsis but the book far surpassed my expectations. Apparently, this is a first novel, so I look forward to many more to come.
A book I happily recommend to anyone with an interest in reality T.V., mystery stories and internal doubts of the individual in a time of stress. Or anyone, really. It is a surprising, yet easy to enjoy, story.
August 18, 2019
Cut Reality piqued my interest when I read the synopsis. As someone who watched the beginning of the reality TV phenomenon and wonders why people still watch, the premise of this book was interesting to me. The story focuses on Jason who was a contestant on a "Survivor" like show. During filming his best friend on the island dies. The story is a mystery about finding the truth behind his friend's death. Was it suicide, or something more sinister? The reader is brought along trying to piece together what actually happened and at the same time you question the sanity of the former contestants. It keeps you guessing until the very end.
I enjoyed reading this book and the mystery of what happened kept me turning the pages to find out more. I did feel like some parts were a little disjointed at times. I would have loved for Blake to give more input on what she thought was going on from a professional standpoint. Overall, I think fans of reality TV or mysteries would enjoy this book. It's definitely interesting to think about the psychological impact these shows have on their contestants.
I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I enjoyed reading this book and the mystery of what happened kept me turning the pages to find out more. I did feel like some parts were a little disjointed at times. I would have loved for Blake to give more input on what she thought was going on from a professional standpoint. Overall, I think fans of reality TV or mysteries would enjoy this book. It's definitely interesting to think about the psychological impact these shows have on their contestants.
I received an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 1, 2019
I found myself captivated by this story within the first few pages of the novel. I was prepared to like this book, because it merges two things I enjoy, murder mysteries and reality TV. I found it to be much more than that. The novel is an intriguing look at how the mind processes and possibly distorts reality when exposed to certain stressors. The main character, Jason, begins to question who can he trust? Are his friends really his friends? Who are his enemies? What are they capable of? Can he really trust anyone? Can he even trust himself? Is what he thinks is happening even really happening? Is he losing touch with reality? The novel explores how people can be exposed to the exact same situation, and walk away with a completely different take on it than someone else. I finished the novel days ago, and find myself still thinking about it. The true sign of a great book!
October 14, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. As a reality TV fan (specifically, Survivor) I appreciated the psychological impact being cast member on such a show might have on a person. This story had a good amount of suspense and kept me interested and invested throughout. Also, the blooming friendship to romantic relationship was lovely! All in all, the plot and the relationships were built up really well, and I was pleased with the way it ended. Definitely recommend!
April 26, 2020
This book is genuinely such a fun read! The premise of it is excellent, and it's perfect book to read as (ironically) a break from reality. It has enough suspense to keep you guessing without it being overly fantastical. I usually gravitate away from books that take place in contemporary settings, but this one is entertaining without being cringe-worthy. I look forward to reading more from him!
Read
May 19, 2021First, I was honored to read this book as Zack Hacker is previous English teacher of mine from high school. Getting to read his work in action made me feel proud in all ways. This book has the perfect combination of messy friendships, a possible love story, and even a reality tv show mystery that consumes the base of the main character's life.
May 21, 2021
As a previous student of Zack Hacker's, I was so excited to finally read this book. Taking place in Cincinnati, Jason returns from his long awaited stint on the popular reality show, Beached. Once returning, he finds that the show may not have been what it seems as the instinctive mysterious death of a friend on the island consumes his reality to the fullest extent.
November 15, 2019
I’m not normally a fan of books that use mixed elements, but this is really good! It read almost like Serial or true crime of something where I was trying to solve what was happening along with the main character.
November 15, 2019
Huge Reality TV fan, which is how I heard about this book, and this scratched that itch. It’s really realistic. I feel so stupid after I got to the ending – I should have seen that all along, but I bought in! A lot of stops to think and time spent with this story after finishing the book.
November 15, 2019
n investigating a potential suicide on reality TV, Jason reveals a lot about the psychology of fame, corporate greed, the modern condition, and the personal quest for truth. Amazing food for thought, thrilling pace, okay characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2019
A profound and paranoid novel, this one is not to be missed. You won’t look at pop culture the same again.
April 25, 2019
Cut Reality
An interesting read – one of the best I’ve read in a murder mystery
This kind of book is rare to find these days. Zack Hacker took his time to develop his character and plot for this book.
The story revolves around the major character Jason Deborb. It starts out as an innocent TV reality show and winds into the great puzzle of trying to unravel the mystery behind the death of a reality TV co-star. Jason did not waste time to jump into investigation even though he, not much experience in the investigation of this kind of case.
His investigations, however, met with stiff neck resistance from the cast and crew of the reality TV show. Jason had to find other ways if he will ever proceed with his investigation.
Zack Hacker has a way of captivating the audience. With each page I flip, I long for more. I was practically glued to this book until the end. I love the level of suspense in this book.
Like everyday reality, there is always this conflict of trying to cope with new reality against existing reality. If you’re a lover of murder mystery like myself, I recommend you place your own order. You will certainly enjoy it.
An interesting read – one of the best I’ve read in a murder mystery
This kind of book is rare to find these days. Zack Hacker took his time to develop his character and plot for this book.
The story revolves around the major character Jason Deborb. It starts out as an innocent TV reality show and winds into the great puzzle of trying to unravel the mystery behind the death of a reality TV co-star. Jason did not waste time to jump into investigation even though he, not much experience in the investigation of this kind of case.
His investigations, however, met with stiff neck resistance from the cast and crew of the reality TV show. Jason had to find other ways if he will ever proceed with his investigation.
Zack Hacker has a way of captivating the audience. With each page I flip, I long for more. I was practically glued to this book until the end. I love the level of suspense in this book.
Like everyday reality, there is always this conflict of trying to cope with new reality against existing reality. If you’re a lover of murder mystery like myself, I recommend you place your own order. You will certainly enjoy it.
April 29, 2019
Not mind blowing but not bad.
This book follows Jason Debord as he tries to find out what really happened to his friend who committed suicide on the set of the reality tv show they were both involved in. Things just don’t add up so Jason takes it upon himself to get to the bottom of things and find out what really happened to his friend. The story line is interesting. The idea of the story has potential to be great. But the execution wasn’t as good as it could have been. There is not a lot of character build up, which may be because of the dialogue and texting that goes on. I didn’t find myself particularly drawn into the story, I honestly believe it could have been better if it had been done differently. But overall it wasn’t terrible either. The chapters are short which makes it easy to find places to set it down and take a break.
This book follows Jason Debord as he tries to find out what really happened to his friend who committed suicide on the set of the reality tv show they were both involved in. Things just don’t add up so Jason takes it upon himself to get to the bottom of things and find out what really happened to his friend. The story line is interesting. The idea of the story has potential to be great. But the execution wasn’t as good as it could have been. There is not a lot of character build up, which may be because of the dialogue and texting that goes on. I didn’t find myself particularly drawn into the story, I honestly believe it could have been better if it had been done differently. But overall it wasn’t terrible either. The chapters are short which makes it easy to find places to set it down and take a break.
April 30, 2019
You almost lost me when plastered on the cover is a blurb from Jonny Fairplay of Survivor infamy. God, that guy was a *insert forbidden word*. As it turns out, Cut Reality is a pretty clever mystery novel built around the reality TV craze that started with Survivor. The story line includes Jason's diary entries during game time, which were interesting to read while we are also learning about how he is currently dealing with the after effects of the game, the death of Billy and his ever increasing paranoia surrounding that death and the show. Zach Hacker manages to bring the excitement of reality TV to a fiction novel containing fairly complex characters and weaving a mystery in a psychological manner via Jason. I found that I enjoyed it more than I expected to, though I did think there were parts that got a tad convoluted. Cut Reality is surely a good choice for fans of reality TV.
May 2, 2019
So good!
Cut Reality is such a good novel! The main character, Jason, was a contestant on a realty show but a fellow contestant ends up dead. Jason takes it upon himself to find out what happened. This book has a little mystery, a little action and a little romance. It’s premise is intriguing and the book follows through. It wouldn’t say it’s a real psychological page turner but it kept me interested. I read that this was the author’s debut novel. He did great! Kudos!
Cut Reality is such a good novel! The main character, Jason, was a contestant on a realty show but a fellow contestant ends up dead. Jason takes it upon himself to find out what happened. This book has a little mystery, a little action and a little romance. It’s premise is intriguing and the book follows through. It wouldn’t say it’s a real psychological page turner but it kept me interested. I read that this was the author’s debut novel. He did great! Kudos!
July 18, 2020
Cut Reality seamlessly blends together aspects of page-turning mysteries and poignant literature. It finds that often hard-to-find balance of contemporary fiction: a book that can be picked up and read "just for fun," but also forces you, in a very natural way, to reflect more deeply on human nature and society.
May 5, 2019
This novel is a thrilling look at reality tv and recovering from the experience. Though a work of fiction, this author has captured that mentality in a wonderful way.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews