The Enemies' Island

Hearts of Pine Lakes #2

by Jessica King

I’ve just been selected to be on the reality show of my dreams, but there’s a catch—my teammate is the man of my nightmares.

Colton Downing—senator’s son, golden boy, and the thorn in my side since high school—has just decided to join me as a contestant on Sunsets and Sabotage—my favorite show. Not his, mine. It’s clear from the get-go that he cares little for the game show and even less about the prize money, which I’m desperate to win. No, for Colton, his sole object in being my partner is just to vex me.

At least, that’s what I thought—but everything changes when we get to Sabotage Island.

Between the grueling competitions, savage competitors, and constant hunger, I quickly learn that Colton has as much to lose in this game as I do, and if we stand a chance of beating the other teams and gaining America’s votes, we’ll need to work together to pull off our crazy plan.

But playing nice with Colton is not something I’m prepared for, especially when his soft glances and heroic actions aren’t just changing the game, they’re melting me like butter on a biscuit.

With each day that passes on the Island, I’m more certain of one thing: winning the show, with my heart intact, will be the greatest challenge of all.

The Enemies’ Island is an enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy filled with adventure, playful banter, endearing characters, and swoony moments that will make your heart squeal with happiness! This is a closed-door romance book with all the chemistry and without any language or explicit scenes (kisses only).

Genres: Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Rom Com, Fake Dating, Summer Romance, Fiction, Contemporary

Paperback

First published March 26, 2026

About the author

Jessica graduated from Brigham Young University with a major in English and a minor in editing. In her younger years, she spent many hours “zoning out” while imagining plots, characters, and epic meet-cutes. Now, she continues to zone out, except this time, her ideas actually make it to paper. Jessica is a mom to three cute kids and a wife to the most supportive husband ever. In her spare time, she loves to puzzle, listen to movie scores, and watch k-dramas with her husband.

Connect with Jessica on Instagram (@authorjessicaking) or at www.authorjessicaking.com

Reviews

[Samantha | samanthakreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fantastic book by Jessica King!

She has such a way of weaving together hilarious moments (seriously, her humor is the best) and emotional depth that provide my kind of rom-com. It’s fun, and full of adventure and swoon (with no spice or language!)

This book is for fans of Survivor and Big Brother… and as a fan of both, this was such a fun concept to read, especially the competition scenes!

I loved both Misty and Colton; both characters felt real and relatable. This is a true enemies-to-lovers story done right! I find enemies-to-lovers is a much harder trope to do in romance books, but Jessica nailed it.

This is a perfect book to read this spring/summer, and if you haven’t read a book by Jessica yet, this is a sign to go pick up her books!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Content to consider:
💋 No spice (kisses only)
🤐 No Language
⛔️ Other: parent abandonment, family expectations/disowning, flashback/nightmares of abusive boyfriend, alcoholic family member, strained family relationships, struggling with anxiety over germs

[Ella Noelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️5

~ ARC review ~

Oh my GOODNESS!!!!!
I cannot with this book! It was so so good! I loved Missy and Colton so much! I loved how their relationship evolved from enemies who can’t stand each other to people who can’t spend a day or a few hours without each other.
Colton. That man. *squeallll* He was so sweet and kind and just perfect.🤭🤭🤭🤭I absolutely loved all their banter and the whole lucky star thing. Iykyk
Missy was such an amazing character as well. I loved her character development and the idea for Something To Glow About. The author did a spectacular job with the whole show idea. I loved the challenges and the way both of them handled it. Oh and don’t forget the snake-one-bed thing!!! Aaack! I absolutely ate up that scene.
The side characters Bill and Maria were my favorite! They were so so sweet and kind. They’re the one best side characters ever! I loved them so so much.
And the ending *happy tears*. I loved how Colton stood up for Missy and chose her through it all. Oh and the way he called her Missy Jean was adorable!
I loved getting to know his brother at the end, I love that they reconnected, also I love that we got to see some of the sibling banter. Gah, I just love this book!🤭

some of my favorite moments in the book:
- Bill and Maria
- when he found her bloodied in the jungle
- Missy and Colton’s teasing
- Colton calling her ‘Missy Jean’
- the way he took care of her
- them sitting at the beach , wrapped in one blanket
- the snake scene
- Colton standing up for Missy
- the ‘I love you’s’ 🤭
- Will and Lexi


tropes:
🩵 enemies to lovers
🐚 fake dating
🩵 forced proximity
🐚 TV show
🩵 he protects her
🐚 one bed
🩵 dual pov

CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language

[Alicia (aliciasalwaysreading)]

I had the privilege of proofreading this one! It's such a fun story!

[Johneice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Colton and Missy! The game show aspect was really cool and unique. I loved Missy’s southern accent and mannerisms! She’s so cute! 😂🥰 The enemies to lovers trope was done so well. The banter between Colton and Missy was everything! Thank you to the author and BookFunnel for the e-ARC!

[Lynn Meeuwissen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Missy is a huge fan of the Sunsets and Sabotage reality TV game show. So obviously she is extatic when she gets chosing to be on it, especially knowing that the price money would allow her to start her own non profit for kids... That is until she finds out that she is partnered up with Colton, her long time rival that she only endures because they share the same friends group.

I absolutely loved EVERYTHING about this book! I loved the concept of the game show as a base for the story and I truly appreciated how they didn’t just fly through it all but they actually had to fight for it, grow as a team, even engage in a showmance to keep their spot safe!

The book is written in a very descriptive way so it is easy to visualize everything happening: you can feel the energy, the excitement and the tension from the challenges! It got me so fully immersed into the story!

There were several times that I genuinely had to laugh with the events happening, but what truly won me over was the emotional layers that sneak up on you beneath the humor.The development of the main characters, but also of the side characters, is so strongly done and there’s so much more to them then meets the eye.

There’s several strong elements that really make this more than “just” a fun romance story: the found family, the standing up to your own family, the having to adjust your opinions of others because you were too soon to judge, the fighting for your dreams!

[Raegan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

This book was SO CUTE. I absolutely loved the game show aspect and the fact that this romance book actually had a good intentional plot? unheard of honestly. The characters were THE best. I literally loved Maria and Bill, and Silver and Legend were giving Cato and Clove in the best way. Colton was dreamyyy and Missy was honestly the sweetest girl and so easy to support. This book had everything it needed and I absolutely love finding a good clean romance!! Highly, highly recommend!

[Alex Ober Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely darling. Missy and Colton were so fun to follow and very relatable. I loved the twists and turns, except for when they ruined the moment!! The game show was a fun aspect and allowed us to get a deeper look into Missy and Colton which I thought was very clever. If you’re looking for a no-spice, yet sweet and endearing story— look no further!

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s a lot to love in this sweet story! It was nice to see a seemingly true enemies to lovers story- Missy and Colton are not fans of one another (even though they have the same friends). When they are nominated to compete together for a survival game show, they start off pretending to have a showmance. Lucky for us, those sparks start a real fire between them! I liked seeing their personal growth arcs- they learn to see each other more clearly and learn to fight for their own dreams. I loved Missy and Colton’s banter and their epilogue was so darn cute. I’m looking forward to what’s next for our friends in Pine Lakes!

[Nataly Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely LOVED this book. I'm so sad that I don't have another Jessica King book ready to go after this one! Jess has such talent and humor that I absolutely admire so much! Her wit and creativity so comes out through this novel, the narrative is unique and the absolute PERFECT premise for an enemies-to-lovers book. I was wondering how she would do it. Enemies-to-lovers isn't generally my favorite trope out of all of the tropes because it's generally because of miscommunication... and yet her execution of enemies-to-lovers was so well done! She made the tension hold well throughout the entire book. I never wanted to put it down, and chapter 1 especially set it up ready for me to get hooked in, just like The Best Friends' Playlist. Having a great first chapter to hook the reader in is amazing and she did an excellent job of that. I loved the side characters too - the emotions that came with them and some irritated me exactly the way they were supposed to (HOW did America vote for Silver & Legend at all? They were so snobby and annoying haha!). I loved the character arcs as well and seeing how they each developed and pushed away negativity. Especially Missy. She had every reason to be someone completely different, and yet she's a great example of the saying, 'fall down seven times, stand up eight'. I loved their love story and Colton's pursuit of her and not backing down when he knew how he felt about her.
Overall, an awesome book.

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Enemies’ Island
(Hearts of Pine Lakes Book 2)
by: Jessica King
@authorjessicaking

••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

~She’s just been selected to be on the reality show of my dreams, but there’s a catch—her teammate is the man of her nightmares…

-My friends, The Enemies’ Island, is such a wonderful enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy delightfully packed full of great adventure, playful fun banter, endearing layered characters, and swoony sparkling moments, that will indeed make your heart sigh with content!

-Whether you are a big fan of reality shows like Survivor, The Hunger Games, or Dating Games, this story is filled with much to love. This story turns up the game of Enemies to Lovers with more forced proximity, and crackling tension. It will raise the stakes across the playing field and challenges, because these enemies will have to be teammates.

-I thoroughly enjoyed the beginning game of survival between main characters with their great misunderstandings being forced to unfold. I thoroughly enjoyed watching characters unravel their many layers, to be their authentic selves. It felt so real and tender. Seeing them be able to trust one another fully amid many twists and turns was what I was rooting for. It was satisfying to see them be valued, loved, accepted, and find their place of belonging. It was in the struggles, the challenges, in making mistakes, having to adapt, recalibrate, and staying committed, that led to such growth, heights, and depth within. This is a story to not miss. It is worth the read!🙌🏻📚🩷

“l’ve got you.”

•Content: no language, no real danger, high stakes adventure/challenges, flashback/nightmares of abusive boyfriend, alcoholic family member, strained family relationships, feelings of not being enough or wanted, some anxiety over germs, no spice, kisses only!

“You were there for me when no one else was.”

-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

“The funny things is, Missy Jean, right now, I feel like I’ve already won.”

#theenemiesisland
#heartsofpinelakes
#authorjessicaking
#allaboutthebestreads

[Alicia (aliciasbooksanctuary) · Rating 5 out of 5]

OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5

You guys, DON’T sleep on this author! Jessica King wowed me with her debut novel, The Best Friends’ Playlist, and here she is knocking it out of the park again with book two in the Hearts of Pine Lake series. Jessica does a fantastic job weaving together laugh out loud moments with serious layers that seamlessly deliver an entertaining and well-rounded story. Her characters are endearing, but complex – they absolutely feel real and relatable. Speaking of relatable, the MMC in this story is a germaphobe who is obsessed with hand sanitizer. I mean, I have no words! To say I was cheering and wanting to high five this guy is an understatement because this is SO me! Of course, we’d both properly sanitize our hands after high fiving. LOL

My family is a HUGE fan of the shows Survivor and Big Brother so reading a story that pulls you into the world of reality TV was such a treat. Colton and Missy have known each other since high school, but their relationship was rocky to say the least. They wind up unexpectedly getting paired up to compete on the reality show, Sunsets and Sabotage. You really find yourself invested in this plot and Jessica did such a fantastic job, making me feel as though I was curled up on the couch watching the full season pan out. She introduces us to crazy and fun characters on the opposing teams that are competing and it’s hard to not start choosing your favorites and rooting for some while wanting to smack some of the others. While a lot of this story takes us through what is happening on camera, we also get a lot of the behind-the-scenes moments where Colton and Missy really open up and learn about what drives their desire to take home the grand prize. There’s a unique level of rawness and authenticity to the relationships formed on this island and I was just eating up every single page.

“Oh, give me strength or give me bail money.”

My absolute favorite quote and honestly, how can you read that and not be intrigued enough to pick this one up!?

*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary

[Sophie Toovey · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Enemies Island by Jessica King is a fun, reality-TV-inspired romance that delivers on the enemies-to-lovers tension with a tropical twist.

Colton and Missy head onto a competitive island show with a long-standing dislike for one another, and the forced proximity quickly sparks a “showmance” for the cameras… that slowly starts to feel a little too real. I loved the way their banter and rivalry softened into genuine care. There’s something undeniably sweet about watching two people who think they can’t stand each other gradually become each other’s safest place.

Missy’s traumatic history with her mum adds emotional depth, and Colton’s strained relationship with his overbearing father gives him vulnerability beneath the competitive exterior. Those backstories help anchor the romance in something more meaningful than just island chemistry. I especially enjoyed the way they showed up for each other when those family wounds resurfaced.

There are some fun nods to The Hunger Games that add a playful layer to the survival-show setup, and the whole concept had so much potential for high stakes and dramatic twists.

That said, I did find the story a little bland at times. Given the reality show premise, I was expecting more unexpected turns or shocking developments. The supporting characters felt fairly one-dimensional — the “bad guys” stayed bad, the “good guys” stayed good — which made the competition element feel more predictable than it could have been.

Overall, though, this is an easy, entertaining read with a satisfying enemies-to-lovers arc and plenty of sweet moments. If you enjoy reality-show romance, showmance tropes, and wounded characters learning to trust, this one is worth adding to your TBR.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

🫑: kisses only
🤬: clean language


I absolutely loveddddd book 1, Paige and Jordan’s story. So when I saw Jessica was writing book 2 I was so excited, I knew it was going to be great! Let me tell you, she did not disappoint! While the overall feel of this book is very different than book 1 (way less tension/yearning/longing) it is such a fun read. The characters are SO cute and funny, and the setting is genius. I mean, who doesn’t love a reality tv show with Survivor vibes?

I love Colton and Missy’s bickering in this book. It is hilarious to see them picking at each other like an old married couple. They always thought it was because they couldn’t stand each other, but you know what they say about the line between love and hate? This book has lots of funny moments that will make you laugh and smile, as well as several very deep and heartfelt moments with the MCs. Colton and Missy come from very different backgrounds, but both have had difficulties to overcome throughout their lives. They each have deep hurts that have left a mark.

Seeing these two go from tolerating each other, to passing cute little notes back and forth was adorable! Seeing them finally notice each other after all their years of semi-friendship was just so precious and rewarding. And all of the kind gestures they made towards each other while on the island were so swoony, they gave me the warm fuzzies. Of course, there are circumstances that make things a bit difficult for the lovebirds, but I won’t give anything away. Just know that the ride is worth it in the end… and the end is so very sweet.

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! The only reason I didn’t finish it in one night is because I had to “be an adult” and go to work.

The FMC and MMC go from enemies to lovers, but in the best slow burn way possible. Jessica King does such an amazing job and developing all of the extra characters as well that I feel like I know them all. I found myself getting engrossed in loving some characters and hating others, which is exactly what should happen when they’re on a sabotage game show.

If you love character development, slow burn, no spice, Survivor, and being sucked into a book then this is definitely for you! It’s the second in a series but can be read as a stand alone.

[Kimberley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘The Enemies Island’ by Jessica King absolutely never lets up from the very first page. I was hooked immediately, and the pace never slowed. This is a true enemies-to-lovers story — not just a mild rivalry, but genuine tension, sharp edges, and sparks flying in every direction.

Watching the two protagonists navigate their intense dislike while competing on an island survival show was gripping enough on its own. The survival setting raises the stakes in such a fresh, compelling way — physically, emotionally, and relationally. But what makes this story shine is how deeply personal it becomes. Both characters are forced to confront their greatest fears, and those vulnerable, heartfelt moments add so much depth to their journey.

And then… the delayed message. The heartbreak. Just when you think you can breathe, another twist hits. One revelation after another keeps you turning pages, desperate to see how it will all unfold.

Despite the high stakes and emotional intensity, there’s also plenty of banter and laugh-out-loud moments. The chemistry between the characters is electric — their sharp exchanges slowly softening into something tender and real. The balance between humor, tension, and genuine emotion is beautifully done.

This story has adventure, angst, vulnerability, and romance woven together seamlessly. If you love a true enemies-to-lovers arc with real growth, real stakes, and plenty of twists, this one delivers in every way. Absolutely loved it.

[Krista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica King did it again! This book was such a fun read. I loved seeing familiar faces from The Best Friends Playlist and watching Colton and Missy’s relationship actually turn from enemies...to something very unexpected :) The game show element added a playful twist that kept me hooked. If you love banter and chemistry that’s all wrapped into a no spice romantic comedy, this one’s a must-read!

[jennie.and.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so fun! Rivals become teammates!

These characters are great and I enjoyed all the banter!

[Brooklynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t typically write reviews but this book deserves one! I absolutely loved Best Friend Playlist and wondered how this one compare. I LOVED it. I love that the enemies portion actually lasted longer than a chapter or two like other enemies books I’ve read. I truly felt like I was watching a tv show. The characters were deep and more real than a lot of characters in similar books. I appreciate that the characters weren’t perfect and that there were moments both of them saw flaws in each other but were drawn to each other despite those flaws. Truly one of my favorite reads this year! Binged it in a day and a half :) can’t wait for Ji’s book!

[funkelbunt.liest · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved The Best Friends’ Playlist and the Sequel The Enemies’ Island was just as much fun!

Like I have said in a recent review for another book - I am NOT a fan of reality shows. Like AT ALL. I find them to be stupid, cringe worthy, second-hand-embarassing-inducing, exploitative… should I go on? But as it happens I read two Romcoms in the last month where the main characters took part in a reality show and I’m surprised to say - reading about a fictional reality show is quite different and can even be really entertaining. ;)

Honestly the premise of the show sounds a bit … unrealistic? This might sound ironic, but I mean it. I think Colton and Missy are amazing characters, but to be chosen for this reality show, the chances seem rather slim..? I don’t know, as you might have guessed, I have no idea how participants for reality shows are chosen, but the first chapters seemed quite far-fetched for me. Like Missy to be counting on the prize money for her long planned goals without even knowing that she would in fact be part of the show.

But anyway, especially in romcoms we as readers just have to accept some facts without being too critical about their probability and I could soon overlook that how the book started seemed just a bit too fantastical.

The island setting and the games are great, but they became just “background noise” to me. Don’t get me wrong, the challenges the participants face are definitely pushing the story forward and are just fun to read, but the strength of this book lies in its wonderful characters, their banter and chemistry and mostly in their growth.

I absolutely loved Colton and Missy and to learn more about their complicated history. While both love to bicker with each other, it’s the real moments between them, when they get vulnerable and open that make them so relatable and that just show how hurt they are underneath all the cool words and flippant remarks.

The fake dating aspect added a lot of angst for Missy since this is the perfect trope to wonder what’s real and what’s not and she’s definitely not someone to trust easily.

I loved how they got to know each other from a new perspective through this experience, how they reminisced about shared experiences and understood after years of resentment what actually drove the other one and how they felt back then.

It’s a really cute and swoon worthy romcom that I can easily forgive the little flaws (like the exaggerated backstories or the side characters in the show that were a bit too cliché) because it combines what makes a perfect romcom for me - a lot of heart with just the right amount of humour that makes you laugh in between all the tender moments. I know humour is a thing where it just doesn’t make sense to argue about, but for me Jessica King is one of the very few authors (honestly, most romcoms just fall flat for me) who finds the perfect balance between sweet without being cheesy and funny without being primitive or tasteless.

Highly recommend this one and am already looking forward to what she will come up with next!

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

OBSESSED!!!

Missy finally lands a spot on her dream reality show, Sunsets and Sabotage, only to find out her teammate is Colton Downing, her longtime high school nemesis.

But once they reach Sabotage Island and face brutal challenges and fierce competitors, they realize they’ll have to work together if they want to win. The real problem? The more they team up, the harder it becomes to ignore the unexpected sparks between them....

What you'll love:
enemies to lovers
dual pov
reality survival show
forced proximity/teammates
high stakes
protective hero
pageant queen x senator's son
sooo much chemistry and tension!
THAT KISS!!!

AHHHH!!!!! You guys, I think I just discovered a new favorite author because this book was absolutely unputdownable. It takes enemies to lovers to the next level with the reality survival show setting, forced proximity, and the fact that they’re stuck working together as teammates (plus a few other things I won’t spoil....!). I loved every moment of the delicious tension from the first chapter all the way to the perfect ending.

I’m always a sucker for enemies to lovers where the 'enemy' part comes from misunderstandings and assumptions, and watching Colton and Missy slowly discover each other’s real selves was so satisfying. Once those walls start coming down, the attraction that’s clearly been simmering for years finally gets a chance to shine! I loved seeing them grow, learn to trust each other, and figure out how to work together through all the crazy challenges. That first kiss completely melted me into an absolute puddle and was so worth the wait!!

The island game show setting felt so fresh and fun, and the side characters were vivid and hilarious, adding a ton of humor and personality to the story. I haven’t read this author’s first book yet, but you better believe it just shot straight to the top of my TBR!!

If you’re a fan of enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and couples with chemistry for days, you need to pick up this book ASAP!!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This is the second book in the Hearts of Pine Lakes series. While it could be read as a standalone, you'll really want to read the first book as you'll get Paige and Jordan's story.

This is such a fun story! I was intrigued with Missy and Colton's history/relationship after reading The Best Friends' Playlist and now we get their story. This book has them being partners on a reality TV show that forces them to work together so that they can win the competition. Even though they have been in the same friend group since high school, they have picked at each other and claim to dislike one another. Of course the start of the competition is rough for them, but they start to learn to work together and feelings start to happen. I loved that they started to realize that their perspective of each other was skewed and that they really had more in common than they thought. Each has struggles that they are trying to overcome and rise above, and they both learn how to break down some walls and learn to trust - even though this can be super scary.

Jessica King does a masterful job of creating a story that pulls you in from the beginning and keeps your attention to the very end. The characters are relatable and it makes you wish they were real so you could be friends with them. This book provides all the emotions including laugh out loud moments, sweet tender moments, and moments that leave you smiling.

I'm excited for more from Jessica King. I feel that the end of this book points toward the potential of Ji's story - which is super exciting!!

I received an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Quotes:
"But, oh, how he'd look so good with my handprint across that chiseled jaw of his."

"Dwelling on something beyond your control will never brighten your day."

"He sees me at my worst, but he hasn't abandoned me yet."

"You get one life, so make it your best."

"I've got you."

"You were there for me when no one else was."

"...the look he gives me makes me feel more treasured than a thousand lucky objects."

[sassygirlreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Enemies’ Island is the first book that I’ve read by Jessica King and wow, just wow! I couldn’t put it down and finished it way past my bedtime. Colton and Missy are delightful characters that for years have been enemies, and it shows with the tension between them from the start. I don’t watch too much reality TV, but they made me want to start! Colton and Missy’s banter and chemistry are undeniably one of the best I’ve read. How they navigate being stuck together, to working together, to missing each other when apart was a journey I was so on board for. They were so different but a lot a like as well. Both have a lot riding on this competition and everything to lose. And speaking of the competition, there was so much sabotaging, and I seriously wanted to hurt some of the other teams! Some of the contestants were wonderful and kind, especially Bill and Maria! The island was a fun setting, providing many challenges made for adventure and nail-biting moments. If you are looking for an enemies to more, tension filled romcom with banter, friendships, growth, romance, a perfect ending and so much more The Enemies’ Island is a MUST read! Loved it!

Favorite quotes:
"He sees me at my worst, but he hasn't abandoned me yet. And I have every reason to be thankful for that, even if he’s still a pain in my backside." - Missy

"Somehow, I feel like I can fully breathe around her, and yet, I can’t breathe at all. It’s a heady combination—one that’s bound to end in disaster." - Colton

Tropes: adventurous romcom = enemies to more = pageant queen = senator's son = forced proximity = "Survivor" vibes = fake dating = swoony kisses

Favorite things:
- His nicknames for her
- Colton always taking care of Missy
- Lucky star
- Big Bertha (hahaha) and the snake
- The other contestants (especially Billand Maria!)
- Paint ball
- Secret rendezvous’
- The kisses and the perfect ending!

Happy reading!

[Ryleigh JS King · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book!! It was everything I was hoping for and more.
It would've been a one-sitting read if I didn't have to deal with "responsibilities."

The characters, the storyline, the plot twists. I couldn't get enough of it!

The characters were all well written, with hidden layers you didn't expect. The author gave all of the characters, villains, side characters, and main characters the same amount of care and attention, creating a world that drew me instantly. They all felt so real.
I hated the villains with a passion, those on Sabotage Island and those at home. There were several times that I wished I could sabotage them.
I loved the dynamic between the MCs, Colton and Missy. Their banter is toptier and made me laugh every time. I loved how their story progressed and the twists that came along with it. I HAVE to see them in a future book again, even if it's just as side characters.

The storyline was something I had never seen in a book before. I love how it took place on a reality show, kind of like Survivor. I felt fully immersed, like I was on Sabotage Island with the character. I honestly wish there were more books like this out there.

And the PLOT TWISTS. Right when I thought, "here comes the happily ever after," a curveball I never saw coming hit me. I was ready to throw my phone across the room, but in a good way.

I cannot stress how much I loved this book. It was fun and humorous while also sending a deep message.

If you are even considering picking this book up, DO IT! You will not regret it...Well, you might when you absolutely fall in love with the characters and the world Jessica King has written and NEED more of it all.

I want to thank the amazing author, Jessica King, for allowing me to be part of her ARC team. This book was absolutely amazing, and I don't just say that.

[Jenny x Carolena · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have ever watched a reality survival show and thought, what if the two most stubborn people on the planet were forced to be partners, Jessica King apparently took that challenge personally and gave us The Enemies’ Island. The story follows Missy, a former pageant girl from Colorado who has fought her way up from a difficult childhood and pours everything she has into a purpose bigger than herself. Paired with Colton on Sunsets and Sabotage, the one man she would never willingly choose, she finds herself stuck in a forced partnership where antagonizing each other has practically become a competitive event of its own. Their banter is sharp, fast, and genuinely funny, and the enemies-to-lovers tension lands beautifully without dragging. The reality-show setting is such a fun backdrop too, mixing survival-style chaos, scheming competitors, grueling challenges, and audience vote rankings that keep the pressure high and the pacing lively.

Beneath all the humor, the story carries a real emotional weight. Both Missy and Colton are burdened by the chains of their pasts, shaped by loving people who could not love them back in the way they needed or wanted, and watching those walls come down slowly and honestly is truly beautiful. Missy also has meaningful moments of self-reflection along the way that add a satisfying layer to her character arc. This is a clean romance with kisses only, but it still fully delivers on the swoon, the healing, and the heart behind its tropes. Perfect for readers who love reality TV chaos, slow-burn banter, forced partnership, and emotional healing wrapped in a romantic comedy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Eliana · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK IS SO AMAZING!

In the Enemies Island by Jessica King, we follow two lovely characters Missy and Colton. They've known each other for a long time and are in the same friend group, yet they've always hated each other, and are constantly bickering. Before they know it they find themselves partnering up on a survival show, with a grand cash prize. Suddenly they are forced to ignore their hatred and work together to win this show, both of them determined.

Jessica King does an excellent job of writing the story, the survival elements are so fun and interesting, I found myself constantly engaged not wanting to put the book down. The writing flows so nicely and flawlessly, and is so engaging, there was honestly not a single dull moment in this book from the first page to the last I was completely hooked. The setting was so good and beautiful I could imagine it so well. The story is so good and easy to follow along with and I had such a fun time reading this book. All the side characters in this book were also awesome, especially Bill and Maria! And I loved how we got to see Jordan and Paige in this book!

In this book:
Enemies to lovers
Fake dating
No Spice
Beautiful setting
Fierce competition
Adventure
Banter
Forced Proximity
Dual Pov
No language

I highly, highly, highly recommend this book it was so amazing and I want to reread it immediately! Such a fun, compelling read, and Im so grateful I got to read it!

Warning: be ready to stay up late at night reading this book because you wont want to put this down

Thank you to the author for sending me the arc!

[Abigail Maberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

YOU GUYS. Be still my romcom loving heart😭 this book is absolutely EVERYTHING. I don’t want to reduce the story to just tropes, but let me lay it out for you; this had it all. Enemies to more. Forced proximity(of the HIGHEST order). Fake dating. And so much more. The perfect blend of heart and humor, with plenty of moments that found me squealing and kicking my feet in unfettered giddiness!

COLTON AND MISSY. New favorite couple alert! I adored everything about them🫠 Different in so many ways, yet they end up bringing out the best in each other. Though, in the beginning, it looked like the worst💀 It was so, so precious as they began to see beyond the other’s walls and built such a foundation of trust. Her encouraging words to him? His protectiveness? Their secret conversations? The daring rescues? When it’s not fake anymore? Um, YES! To ALL. OF. IT.

Also, the island setting was so fun! The game show provided some heart pounding, adrenaline fueled moments and the contestants colored the story vibrantly. I loved the friendships they made with everyone, especially Bill and Maria with their heartfelt advice and wisdom🥹

This being the second in a series, I was worried about it living up to how much I adored the first one, but this absolutely stands on its own! Completely different from the first but with the same sweet themes of friendship and love throughout🩷


A few things I loved♥️
-Mrs. Delgado. She really is doing the work💀
-Their friend group
-Their secret meetings
-The glow in the dark star
-Hunger Games references
-The coloring book🥲
-The swooniest kisses imaginable🫠
-THAT. EPILOGUE.

*Thank you to the author for this sweet ARC! All opinions are my own.

[Tasha (the_clean_read_book_club) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

“Life can take you to a lot of unexpected places… but never once did I think it would take me here—to the tropics, lugging a bag full of coconuts through the jungle, while simultaneously being bungee cuffed to Colton Downing.”

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED The Enemies’ Island by Jessica King. We’re bringing out the caps lock for this one, friends because:

THIS. BOOK. DELIVERS.

This is enemies-to-more done RIGHT. Not just surface-level tension—this is YEARS of rivalry, history, and built-up frustration that turns into something so much deeper. The banter? TOP TIER. The energy? IMMACULATE. The angst? Oh it’s THERE.

And the setting?? A reality game show on a remote island where they’re forced to work together to survive AND win?? Yes, please!

I loved feeling like I was right there with them—the challenges, the alliances, the betrayals, the constant tension…it was SO fun and completely immersive.

Watching these two go from enemies to actually seeing each other clearly was one of my favorite parts. That slow realization of “maybe I never really knew you”? SO GOOD🤗

And the ending? CHEF’S KISS. PERFECTION. I need that final scene in a movie IMMEDIATELY.

If you love high-stakes romance with strong banter, forced proximity, and just a hint of The Hunger Games-style competition energy…you need this one on your TBR ASAP.

Available now—and SO ready to be read and loved.

Happy reading📚

Content/Triggers: parent abandonment, family expectations/disowning, judgment, romance-kisses only.

[Kelsey Dicou · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Enemies' Island by Jessica King is a great enemies-to-lovers story, and you should snag this book when it releases on March 13th. If you like Survivor, then you will love this story. Everything from the banter, the romance, the game play, and the amazing side characters had me hooked the entire time!

Missy is a former pageant queen with a heart of gold. She has worked hard for everything she's gotten in her life, and wants to start a business to help children and teens gain confidence in themselves.

Colton is the senator's son, and ✨Daddy Dearest✨ has paid for literally every success he's gotten. He is tired of being strung along his father's leash and wants to have his own path in life.

Missy and Colton are selected to be partners on Sunsets and Sabotage, and neither of them are thrilled about the idea of being near each other for 2 1/2 weeks. They've been competing against each other ever since high school! Well, they decide to put their differences aside and work together to win, starting with a fake relationship. As you would know it, romance starts to blossom on the not-so-romantic island.

Throughout the challenges and the secret getaways from prying drones and cameras, Missy and Colton figure out there's more to each other that's beneath their judgemental and competitive behavior.

Thank you so much for this ARC, Jessica! I have LOVED reading this story, and I cannot wait to put it on my shelf.

#theproperromantic #cleanreads #theenemiesisland #jessicakingauthor #missyandcolton

[Bia | aworldofinkandpaper · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Enemies' Island – Book Review

⭐ 4/5

The Enemies' Island follows Missy, a former pageant queen, and Colton, the son of a senator. They’ve known each other for years through the same friend group, but they’ve never liked each other.
Things take an unexpected turn when they are chosen to compete as a team on Sunsets and Sabotage, a survival reality show set on a remote island.
Missy has always loved the show and sees it as her chance to win the prize money. What she doesn’t understand is why Colton would want to participate, unless it’s just another way to get on her nerves.
As the story unfolds, we slowly discover the motivations behind both characters. For years, they built versions of each other in their heads that kept them constantly clashing. But being forced to work together changes everything, and it was really satisfying to see those walls slowly come down and their feelings begin to shift.
One thing I really loved about this book was the survival aspect. The challenges actually felt realistic, and the characters didn’t magically succeed at everything. They struggled, made mistakes, and had to adapt, which made the story feel much more believable.
The book also touches on the complicated relationships both characters have with their parents and how those experiences shaped their choices and insecurities.
Overall, this was such a sweet and fun read. Definitely recommend it if you enjoy romance with a reality show twist!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Cher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, this book was ABSOLUTELY DELIGHTFUL. Enemies forced to work together on a reality game show??!! Seriously, say less. I loved every second of it.

This is not your typical enemies-to-lovers where they’ve secretly been in love for a decade. Colton and Missy really dislike each other and struggle to work together—to the point that it’s jeopardizing their standings in the game show. It takes deliberate effort on both parts to set aside differences and choose to see the good in each other. I’m obsessed with Colton and Missy and loved watching them navigate tension, truces, and true feelings.

And can we talk about the Survivor-like game show?? It was epic. I was rooting SO HARD for them on each of the challenges they competed in and felt my heart pounding wanting to know who would win each time. (Also wanted to gut punch Team Fuschia…iykyk). If you’re a Survivor fan, don’t miss out on this book!

I’m amazed when authors can create all the banter and tension and fun, flirty aspects of a romcom but match that with real hurts and relatable struggles that bring depth and satisfaction. Colton and Missy had all of that and their story is one that made my heart so happy.

This was my first book by Jessica King, and consider me converted! Excuse me while I go back and devour the first book in this series! ✌🏻

✨ Gems ✨
The banter 👏🏻
Dual POV 💞
Bill and Maria
Hand sanitizer 😂
Missy’s compliment 🥹
“Hairy” 🤣
Glow-in-the-dark star 🌠
Coloring book notes 🫠
Berry Red 💄 😏
Healing and family ❤️‍🩹