What do you think?
An Empty Playground: A Dystopian, Enemies to Lovers Romance
Not yet published
Expected 1 Oct 26I’ve gone from city to city. State to state.
I’ve searched everywhere.
I’m the last person alive.
She wakes up to an empty world. Everyone’s disappeared. Just like that, all people are gone.
After weeks of searching, she finds him; another person. In full tactical gear with a shotgun aimed at her throat.
They may be the only people around, but that doesn’t mean they trust each other. He won’t even tell her his name. Fine with her. It’s not like she was dying to get to know the brooding Soldier Boy anyway. And as far as he’s concerned, keeping that Crazy Girl at an arm’s length is his only option.
As they travel their empty world together, searching for answers, they realize that surviving each other might be the least of their problems. Animals are either gone, or… wrong. Roads end where they shouldn’t. And over it all, there’s silence.
Could they really be the last two people on earth?
An Empty Playground is a dystopian enemies to lovers romance set in a world where the only rule is that there are none.
Book #1 in The Path to Paradise duet.
I’ve searched everywhere.
I’m the last person alive.
She wakes up to an empty world. Everyone’s disappeared. Just like that, all people are gone.
After weeks of searching, she finds him; another person. In full tactical gear with a shotgun aimed at her throat.
They may be the only people around, but that doesn’t mean they trust each other. He won’t even tell her his name. Fine with her. It’s not like she was dying to get to know the brooding Soldier Boy anyway. And as far as he’s concerned, keeping that Crazy Girl at an arm’s length is his only option.
As they travel their empty world together, searching for answers, they realize that surviving each other might be the least of their problems. Animals are either gone, or… wrong. Roads end where they shouldn’t. And over it all, there’s silence.
Could they really be the last two people on earth?
An Empty Playground is a dystopian enemies to lovers romance set in a world where the only rule is that there are none.
Book #1 in The Path to Paradise duet.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 27, 2026
2.5/5
This book really intrigued me when I came across it on TikTok, so much so that after looking further into it I applied for an ARC. I was very excited to read it when I found out I got one and had pretty high expectations, sadly however for me the story fell a bit short.
I thought that the book was a bit rushed at the beginning, and would’ve preferred a bit more set up. Following that with the FMC and MMC meeting, I was rather baffled by the conflict which pushed the narrative for the enemies to lovers trope. The arguments felt a little forced and I didn’t really understand what was forcing the issues beyond the MMC threatening the FMC and trying to rile her up. The relationship when it then crossed into the lovers territory it was just a bit meh for me as I didn’t have any real emotional investment in either of them.
As the book went on I started to enjoy it more, though the constant point A to point B got a bit repetitive. I understand the premise of the book was for them to be looking around the USA, but I felt like it could’ve branched out a little more. Along with the fact that some of the more interesting things that occurred during their travels such as the mutated/missing animals are mentioned then never explained (or ever really touched on properly again). Also the religious imagery and references through the book made me feel a little like I was reading a bible Adam x Eve AU fanfic.
Overall, I found the book ok, not good or bad, but somewhere in the middle. Despite the cliffhanger ending I’m not sure if I’ll pick up the second book cause I’m just not all that invested in what happens to the characters next. If you enjoy trope driven tales, this may be more up your alley and I’d say give it a read, sadly it just wasn’t my thing.
Finally I’d like to say a huge thank you to the author for providing me with this ARC, and wish her all the luck in the world with her storytelling journey.
This book really intrigued me when I came across it on TikTok, so much so that after looking further into it I applied for an ARC. I was very excited to read it when I found out I got one and had pretty high expectations, sadly however for me the story fell a bit short.
I thought that the book was a bit rushed at the beginning, and would’ve preferred a bit more set up. Following that with the FMC and MMC meeting, I was rather baffled by the conflict which pushed the narrative for the enemies to lovers trope. The arguments felt a little forced and I didn’t really understand what was forcing the issues beyond the MMC threatening the FMC and trying to rile her up. The relationship when it then crossed into the lovers territory it was just a bit meh for me as I didn’t have any real emotional investment in either of them.
As the book went on I started to enjoy it more, though the constant point A to point B got a bit repetitive. I understand the premise of the book was for them to be looking around the USA, but I felt like it could’ve branched out a little more. Along with the fact that some of the more interesting things that occurred during their travels such as the mutated/missing animals are mentioned then never explained (or ever really touched on properly again). Also the religious imagery and references through the book made me feel a little like I was reading a bible Adam x Eve AU fanfic.
Overall, I found the book ok, not good or bad, but somewhere in the middle. Despite the cliffhanger ending I’m not sure if I’ll pick up the second book cause I’m just not all that invested in what happens to the characters next. If you enjoy trope driven tales, this may be more up your alley and I’d say give it a read, sadly it just wasn’t my thing.
Finally I’d like to say a huge thank you to the author for providing me with this ARC, and wish her all the luck in the world with her storytelling journey.
August 26, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC! First of all, I loooved this book and I absolutely binged it! I loved the atmospheric setting, the vibes, the feeling the post-apocalyptic setting gave me! It felt super eerie throughout and that really set the scene. It’s a totally different plot and concept to anything I’ve read before so I loved that and the tension between the characters were 10/10!! I’m really invested in the fact that throughout the whole book you can tell that there’s something not quite right about the world the characters are in, but you just can’t work out what it is?! It certainly kept me hooked the whole book - and that ending?! Super excited to dive into book 2 and hopefully get some answers (and more tension) 🖤
August 25, 2026
Crazy that I got the opportunity to read this before it’s released, so honoured!
The concept of this book is so fucking cool, I’m gagged at the ending please I NEED to know what’s happening and how it all started omg. Book 1 NOW
The concept of this book is so fucking cool, I’m gagged at the ending please I NEED to know what’s happening and how it all started omg. Book 1 NOW
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Copy
First of all, I’d like to thank the author for allowing me an ARC of Empty Playground.
I found out about this book on TikTok, and the overall idea of a dystopian/apocalyptic world with an enemies-to-lovers romance caught my eye. Unfortunately, this wasn’t for me.
I didn’t relate to the characters, as we basically don’t get to know them. The MMC’s nickname is “Soldier Boy”, and we know NOTHING about his time in the army?? We find out he had a rough childhood, but even that is only mentioned in the last 20% of the book. The FMC was way too whiny for me.
Multiple things didn’t make sense. The main characters changed vehicles 2–3 times and only put diesel in once, yet they were able to drive all over the USA. How the hell did they find generators that quickly for a huge barn? There’s a scene with a mutated bird, and it’s never mentioned again. After that, all the animals are normal and even show up when they need them.
The book is very fast-paced, but at the same time, it isn’t. It’s basically Adam and Eve driving all over the country to find other people and fighting along the way. I’d have liked to see a little bit more of them actually fighting for their survival: struggling, starving, etc. Also, the List Thing didn’t make any sense to me. Those chapters could have been something else wayyyy cooler.
The worst thing was the ending. It was just… weird.
I had such high expectations. Good idea, poor execution
First of all, I’d like to thank the author for allowing me an ARC of Empty Playground.
I found out about this book on TikTok, and the overall idea of a dystopian/apocalyptic world with an enemies-to-lovers romance caught my eye. Unfortunately, this wasn’t for me.
I didn’t relate to the characters, as we basically don’t get to know them. The MMC’s nickname is “Soldier Boy”, and we know NOTHING about his time in the army?? We find out he had a rough childhood, but even that is only mentioned in the last 20% of the book. The FMC was way too whiny for me.
Multiple things didn’t make sense. The main characters changed vehicles 2–3 times and only put diesel in once, yet they were able to drive all over the USA. How the hell did they find generators that quickly for a huge barn? There’s a scene with a mutated bird, and it’s never mentioned again. After that, all the animals are normal and even show up when they need them.
The book is very fast-paced, but at the same time, it isn’t. It’s basically Adam and Eve driving all over the country to find other people and fighting along the way. I’d have liked to see a little bit more of them actually fighting for their survival: struggling, starving, etc. Also, the List Thing didn’t make any sense to me. Those chapters could have been something else wayyyy cooler.
The worst thing was the ending. It was just… weird.
I had such high expectations. Good idea, poor execution
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
How do I even begin to describe how amazing it is to be able to read this book before it’s even come out yet?
I’ve always loved reading, but because I’ve been so busy lately I’ve not had the chance to. Coming across seeing little sneaky spoilers of the book on my TikTok- I was instantly intrigued!!
I got halfway through last night before falling asleep as it was around 3am when I passed out- I woke up and immediately kept reading, wanting to know what was happening next with my new favourite main characters- and now i definitely need to know what happens next with them.
This is my first time reading a book that involves smut (crazy I know), and I’ve definitely realised that this is going to be one of my guilty pleasures from now on (so excited for book 2).
I’ve already mentioned it to Ayelet previously briefly, I would actually kill to be the FMC if it was ever turned into some sort of film or tv show adaptation as it’s just so so good. It’s also inspired me to try and get myself back into writing too, so thank you!!
I will now be in my room bundled in my blankets eagerly waiting to read the next book <3
I’ve always loved reading, but because I’ve been so busy lately I’ve not had the chance to. Coming across seeing little sneaky spoilers of the book on my TikTok- I was instantly intrigued!!
I got halfway through last night before falling asleep as it was around 3am when I passed out- I woke up and immediately kept reading, wanting to know what was happening next with my new favourite main characters- and now i definitely need to know what happens next with them.
This is my first time reading a book that involves smut (crazy I know), and I’ve definitely realised that this is going to be one of my guilty pleasures from now on (so excited for book 2).
I’ve already mentioned it to Ayelet previously briefly, I would actually kill to be the FMC if it was ever turned into some sort of film or tv show adaptation as it’s just so so good. It’s also inspired me to try and get myself back into writing too, so thank you!!
I will now be in my room bundled in my blankets eagerly waiting to read the next book <3
August 28, 2026
I want to start off by saying thank you to the author for allowing me the opportunity to read the arc copy of this book. I not only felt like I was reading it but also that I was along for the journey, I’m utterly hooked! This is my first book from them and off to a great start.
I loved the style it was written in both in diary/note form and POV. The way the characters expressed and thought had me sobbing and laughing, their banter was the best comedic relief in the situation they found themselves in. KEEPING THE CHARACTERS ANONYMOUS UNTIL HALF WAY THROUGH!? GENIUS! I have not read a book like that and was blown away.
The plot just kept getting thicker and more eerie as the book went on, adding to the already layer of mystery it had going on. It had just the right amount of spice while sticking close to the plot of the story.
Overall I really enjoyed the story, characters and I can’t wait to start the next book! I would highly recommend.
I loved the style it was written in both in diary/note form and POV. The way the characters expressed and thought had me sobbing and laughing, their banter was the best comedic relief in the situation they found themselves in. KEEPING THE CHARACTERS ANONYMOUS UNTIL HALF WAY THROUGH!? GENIUS! I have not read a book like that and was blown away.
The plot just kept getting thicker and more eerie as the book went on, adding to the already layer of mystery it had going on. It had just the right amount of spice while sticking close to the plot of the story.
Overall I really enjoyed the story, characters and I can’t wait to start the next book! I would highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2026
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC!!
I love dystopian books, so this one already had my attention from the start, and it definitely lived up to my expectations.
AND:
I finished it in just 2 days (YES, THIS kind of book) and absolutely loved the world-building. I also really loved the FMC. In some dystopian books, I find them a little too weak or passive, but she was different. She was strong and vulnerable at the same time, and most importantly, she felt REAL.
And him? 🫶🏻 I loved him from beginning to end. The way he keeps his feelings guarded while also trying to protect her kept me completely hooked. 🤧
CAN'T WAIT TO READ BOOK 2!!!
p.s. THE SPICE?! WHAT ON EARTH 😚👌🏻👩🏻🍳
I love dystopian books, so this one already had my attention from the start, and it definitely lived up to my expectations.
AND:
I finished it in just 2 days (YES, THIS kind of book) and absolutely loved the world-building. I also really loved the FMC. In some dystopian books, I find them a little too weak or passive, but she was different. She was strong and vulnerable at the same time, and most importantly, she felt REAL.
And him? 🫶🏻 I loved him from beginning to end. The way he keeps his feelings guarded while also trying to protect her kept me completely hooked. 🤧
CAN'T WAIT TO READ BOOK 2!!!
p.s. THE SPICE?! WHAT ON EARTH 😚👌🏻👩🏻🍳
August 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 ⭐️’s
First of all, thank you Ayelet for the chance to read this early! I have no words.
From start to finish this story takes you on a whirlwind of emotions. The chemistry and tension between the two MC’s has you on the edge of your seat. The only downside I had was that between 60%-70% seemed to drag a little, but the ending definitely makes up for it.
And the ending? All I can say is that I need book two NOW.
First of all, thank you Ayelet for the chance to read this early! I have no words.
From start to finish this story takes you on a whirlwind of emotions. The chemistry and tension between the two MC’s has you on the edge of your seat. The only downside I had was that between 60%-70% seemed to drag a little, but the ending definitely makes up for it.
And the ending? All I can say is that I need book two NOW.
September 11, 2026
How do I even put this review into words? The FMC wakes up to find out she may be the last human on earth….until she runs into the MMC. It’s enemies to lovers and they learn to both have fun and survive. BUT, it leaves you on a HUGE cliffhanger at the end that shocked me to my core.
August 27, 2026
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be an arc reader for your book!!
I have read a bunch of dystopian books but never something with a plot like this and I am obsessed!!
The character dynamic of the FMC & MMC is amazing, an actual enemies to lovers!
I loved the subtle “wtf” moments that make you have to pause and question everything. I wish there were more of them!
The spice was immaculate!!
I cannot wait to start book two!!
I have read a bunch of dystopian books but never something with a plot like this and I am obsessed!!
The character dynamic of the FMC & MMC is amazing, an actual enemies to lovers!
I loved the subtle “wtf” moments that make you have to pause and question everything. I wish there were more of them!
The spice was immaculate!!
I cannot wait to start book two!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh. My. God. 5 pomegranates! What the f*ck?! You’re kidding, right? YOU'RE JOKING, RIGHT?!
Ayelet just put me through every single emotion on the wheel, dragged me through the entire cycle of grief, and then made me do it all over again. Just when I could finally catch my breath? She ripped the rug right out from under me.
And honestly? I’d let her do it again in a heartbeat because THIS BOOK!
The plot twists? Unmatched.
The character development? Hell. Yes.
The premise? So unique, beautifully built, and unfolding into something massive that I can't even spoil.
There is still so much to learn, and that cliffhanger literally RIPPED MY HEART OUT. But it's ok, because book two is coming, and it will bring me peace, right? Right ?😭
Also, the pomegranate scene and everything that unfolds after it? SO damn good. AHHHH!
Plus, Ayelet 100% nails the spice. It actually matches the characters and the struggle of this new world- it’s not just random scenes thrown in for shock value. It has purpose, drives the plot forward, and ugh... just give this author her flowers already!
READ THIS!
I seriously don't know how I can wait for book two. I NEED to know what happens next!
This was given to me as an advanced copy, and I take reviews very seriously. My thoughts are honest and it is so rare that an ARC gives me instant 5 star feelings. It was the story that did it for me. It was the characters, their relationship, and most of all that sneaky twist that gutted me not once but TWICE. Ugh. So good. My thoughts are in jambles because I just finished this book, but I couldn't wait. I needed to scream about this from the rooftops.
Ayelet just put me through every single emotion on the wheel, dragged me through the entire cycle of grief, and then made me do it all over again. Just when I could finally catch my breath? She ripped the rug right out from under me.
And honestly? I’d let her do it again in a heartbeat because THIS BOOK!
The plot twists? Unmatched.
The character development? Hell. Yes.
The premise? So unique, beautifully built, and unfolding into something massive that I can't even spoil.
There is still so much to learn, and that cliffhanger literally RIPPED MY HEART OUT. But it's ok, because book two is coming, and it will bring me peace, right? Right ?😭
Also, the pomegranate scene and everything that unfolds after it? SO damn good. AHHHH!
Plus, Ayelet 100% nails the spice. It actually matches the characters and the struggle of this new world- it’s not just random scenes thrown in for shock value. It has purpose, drives the plot forward, and ugh... just give this author her flowers already!
READ THIS!
I seriously don't know how I can wait for book two. I NEED to know what happens next!
This was given to me as an advanced copy, and I take reviews very seriously. My thoughts are honest and it is so rare that an ARC gives me instant 5 star feelings. It was the story that did it for me. It was the characters, their relationship, and most of all that sneaky twist that gutted me not once but TWICE. Ugh. So good. My thoughts are in jambles because I just finished this book, but I couldn't wait. I needed to scream about this from the rooftops.
August 24, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for this advanced copy.
4.5⭐️ Omgg this was so good? I loved the idea of this book when I first saw it on TikTok and it delivered. I loved their relationship soo much, the banter and the smut? So fucking good!!!
It got a bit slow around 40-50% and I wanted to see more weird things happening but it wrapped up nice and I can’t wait to read book 2.
4.5⭐️ Omgg this was so good? I loved the idea of this book when I first saw it on TikTok and it delivered. I loved their relationship soo much, the banter and the smut? So fucking good!!!
It got a bit slow around 40-50% and I wanted to see more weird things happening but it wrapped up nice and I can’t wait to read book 2.
Review of advance copy
Really happy to receive an arc for this book!
I really enjoyed Crazy Girl and Soldier Boy’s (names are a spoiler) dynamic.
I loved the farm house! I loved their tender moments. Kinda glad he didn’t get the lip piercing (I think only Luke Hemmings can pull it off 😂)
Nice amount of spice!
I think the thing that happens between them just before the end was a little rushed and I would’ve loved a Soldier Boy POV during these scenes.
Fun cliff hanger though! Excited for book 2!
I really enjoyed Crazy Girl and Soldier Boy’s (names are a spoiler) dynamic.
I loved the farm house! I loved their tender moments. Kinda glad he didn’t get the lip piercing (I think only Luke Hemmings can pull it off 😂)
Nice amount of spice!
I think the thing that happens between them just before the end was a little rushed and I would’ve loved a Soldier Boy POV during these scenes.
Fun cliff hanger though! Excited for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
I received an ARC of An Empty Playground from the author, and I’m incredibly grateful and honoured to have been given the opportunity to read it. I first came across this book on TikTok, and as someone who is a sucker for dystopian and post-apocalyptic stories, I immediately knew I had to give it a try.
An Empty Playground was such an easy and addictive read. What initially drew me in was the premise: everyone has disappeared, leaving only two strangers behind. The author doesn’t immediately give you all the answers about what happened to the world, which made the mystery surrounding their situation one of the things that kept me turning the pages. There’s something particularly unsettling about the silence, the abandoned world, the strange things happening around them, and the constant question of whether they really are the last two people left.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between the FMC and MMC. When they first meet, neither of them exactly trusts the other, and their relationship starts off with plenty of tension, frustration, and attitude. The FMC initially comes across as though she might need the MMC’s protection, but I quickly realized that she is much stronger and more capable than she is given credit for. She is incredibly smart, independent, and has a wicked mouth, and I absolutely loved that she refused to simply let the MMC boss her around. 😂
I also really enjoyed watching their relationship develop throughout the story. Their feelings didn’t feel like they existed solely because they were the only two people left in the world. Instead, we get to see them slowly learn about each other, rely on one another, and genuinely grow closer. I especially loved seeing how the MMC helped the FMC become more confident in herself while she challenged him in return.
This book genuinely kept me up until 3 a.m. because I kept telling myself, “Just one more chapter.” 😂 I wasn’t reading simply because I wanted to finish it—I was genuinely eager to find out what was going to happen next and, more importantly, to finally understand what happened to the world.
And that ending… 👀
The cliffhanger was exactly that—a cliffhanger. Right when things were getting REALLY good, the book ended and left me needing answers immediately. Needless to say, I am very curious to see where the story goes next.
This was my first book by Ayelet Eden, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m now interested in exploring more of her work, and I’m especially looking forward to the next instalment of this story.
If you enjoy dystopian/post-apocalyptic settings, enemies-to-lovers tension, mysterious worlds, strong FMCs, and a romance that develops alongside the larger story, An Empty Playground is definitely worth checking out.
I received an ARC of An Empty Playground from the author, and I’m incredibly grateful and honoured to have been given the opportunity to read it. I first came across this book on TikTok, and as someone who is a sucker for dystopian and post-apocalyptic stories, I immediately knew I had to give it a try.
An Empty Playground was such an easy and addictive read. What initially drew me in was the premise: everyone has disappeared, leaving only two strangers behind. The author doesn’t immediately give you all the answers about what happened to the world, which made the mystery surrounding their situation one of the things that kept me turning the pages. There’s something particularly unsettling about the silence, the abandoned world, the strange things happening around them, and the constant question of whether they really are the last two people left.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between the FMC and MMC. When they first meet, neither of them exactly trusts the other, and their relationship starts off with plenty of tension, frustration, and attitude. The FMC initially comes across as though she might need the MMC’s protection, but I quickly realized that she is much stronger and more capable than she is given credit for. She is incredibly smart, independent, and has a wicked mouth, and I absolutely loved that she refused to simply let the MMC boss her around. 😂
I also really enjoyed watching their relationship develop throughout the story. Their feelings didn’t feel like they existed solely because they were the only two people left in the world. Instead, we get to see them slowly learn about each other, rely on one another, and genuinely grow closer. I especially loved seeing how the MMC helped the FMC become more confident in herself while she challenged him in return.
This book genuinely kept me up until 3 a.m. because I kept telling myself, “Just one more chapter.” 😂 I wasn’t reading simply because I wanted to finish it—I was genuinely eager to find out what was going to happen next and, more importantly, to finally understand what happened to the world.
And that ending… 👀
The cliffhanger was exactly that—a cliffhanger. Right when things were getting REALLY good, the book ended and left me needing answers immediately. Needless to say, I am very curious to see where the story goes next.
This was my first book by Ayelet Eden, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m now interested in exploring more of her work, and I’m especially looking forward to the next instalment of this story.
If you enjoy dystopian/post-apocalyptic settings, enemies-to-lovers tension, mysterious worlds, strong FMCs, and a romance that develops alongside the larger story, An Empty Playground is definitely worth checking out.
September 13, 2026
3.5 ⭐️!!
i got an arc for the first time 🦦
it was really fun and i was soo intrigued! i was honestly kind of scared when i started reading it loll
i think the only peeve i really had was that more so the middle, end of it felt a bit rushed and we were running all over the place; which works somewhat but i didn’t like that much.
i really liked the first idea that no one was on earth except for this one guy, and then we saw some strange… like animal thing BUT we never touched back on that and all of the animals were fine after
but then there was the running thing that someone’s got to be playing a joke because of their names less and then ther were storms along the borders to canada and mexico
AND THE THE CONFUSION WITH “ we met in colorado” “no we met in kansas” like what!
like i really liked the idea that there were no animals and the one they did see was off locking. and they just didn’t really think more into the fact that storms were literally chasing them away from leaving the states… 🧍♀️
so i was liek right …
AND THEN the ending was a weird crazy cliffhanger!
(didn’t like that she was pregnant)
but i honestly think maybe someone’s doing something to adam and it’s gotta do with his army stuff .. like idk guys i wanna know but i also- feel like i wasnt crazy connected to the characters
but i did like them and then traveling and the training loll
anyways i think i will pick up the second book because i must know- there’s literlalt no way ya know
k bye :p!
i got an arc for the first time 🦦
it was really fun and i was soo intrigued! i was honestly kind of scared when i started reading it loll
i think the only peeve i really had was that more so the middle, end of it felt a bit rushed and we were running all over the place; which works somewhat but i didn’t like that much.
i really liked the first idea that no one was on earth except for this one guy, and then we saw some strange… like animal thing BUT we never touched back on that and all of the animals were fine after
but then there was the running thing that someone’s got to be playing a joke because of their names less and then ther were storms along the borders to canada and mexico
AND THE THE CONFUSION WITH “ we met in colorado” “no we met in kansas” like what!
like i really liked the idea that there were no animals and the one they did see was off locking. and they just didn’t really think more into the fact that storms were literally chasing them away from leaving the states… 🧍♀️
so i was liek right …
AND THEN the ending was a weird crazy cliffhanger!
(didn’t like that she was pregnant)
but i honestly think maybe someone’s doing something to adam and it’s gotta do with his army stuff .. like idk guys i wanna know but i also- feel like i wasnt crazy connected to the characters
but i did like them and then traveling and the training loll
anyways i think i will pick up the second book because i must know- there’s literlalt no way ya know
k bye :p!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of An Empty Playground, and I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to read it!
This was my first book by Ayelet Eden, and it felt genuinely unique. One of my favorite things about her writing is the way she writes people - their experiences, emotions, and reactions all feel so real and incredibly relatable. It made it so easy to connect with the characters and get completely pulled into what they were going through.
I had such an amazing time reading this and honestly enjoyed it from beginning to end. And that cliff hanger at the end definitely did its job because now I absolutely cannot wait to read the second book in the duet and find out what happens next!
This was my first book by Ayelet Eden, and it felt genuinely unique. One of my favorite things about her writing is the way she writes people - their experiences, emotions, and reactions all feel so real and incredibly relatable. It made it so easy to connect with the characters and get completely pulled into what they were going through.
I had such an amazing time reading this and honestly enjoyed it from beginning to end. And that cliff hanger at the end definitely did its job because now I absolutely cannot wait to read the second book in the duet and find out what happens next!
August 30, 2026
I really loved this book. I was so invested in what happened, how it happened and what WILL happen. time just flies when your reading this book. your so invested in their story that you forget your reading all together. Loved it and would definitely read the second. matter a fact i need the second one bc that cliffhanger? made me quesyion everything.
only one slight thing that personally wasnt for me was that it moved very quickly. i would have loved to have seen more of the fmcs life before it happened and her wondering the world alone.
only one slight thing that personally wasnt for me was that it moved very quickly. i would have loved to have seen more of the fmcs life before it happened and her wondering the world alone.
August 30, 2026
This book sucked me in like I read it in one day. I’m actually so shocked by the ending. I can’t wait for book two I NEED to know what happened. Thank you so much to the author for giving me the arc!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
a very very topped lightly into a 4⭐️read
I was hooked by what i saw being said about this on booktok, so i signed up for the ARC, i think the premise of this book is great and at times it had me questioning things the ending defiantly has me wanting to read book 2,
However i felt it was abit rushed in places, i didnt get the enemies to lovers trope and i dont think it was needed unless they knew each other before and were enemies, the keeping the names a secret til a while in and the revelation of it made be ohhh that was clever!
I was hooked by what i saw being said about this on booktok, so i signed up for the ARC, i think the premise of this book is great and at times it had me questioning things the ending defiantly has me wanting to read book 2,
However i felt it was abit rushed in places, i didnt get the enemies to lovers trope and i dont think it was needed unless they knew each other before and were enemies, the keeping the names a secret til a while in and the revelation of it made be ohhh that was clever!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, first things first— this book was a GOD READ. Easy 6⭐
I loved literally every single part of this book so much it isn’t even funny. I’ve read every single one of Ayelet’s books that are out, and this is the best one by far! I wanted to savour it so much it took me 9 hours to finish (mind you, I usually read at 60+ pages an hour and 100+ on a really good day).
The desperation the FMC experiences while trying to find someone, anyone, and the desperation to fully understand the entire situation made me hooked from the first page—partially because I connected with her in a few ways and enjoyed reading from her point of view.
“Give me one good reason not to blow your fucking head off.”
Might be one of my favourite quotes of all time. LOLL
I saw leaks about this quote many times, and even made a post about it myself on my own booktok account (y'all follow its booktok.mayka). To say I was waiting for it would be an understatement.
When I finally got to that moment, I literally got up, jumped happily, and sat back down to yap to Ayelet about it (I truly feel bad for her; it was so many messages).
The MMC’s & FMC’s bickering and threatening each other’s lives—or what I would call flirting— made this book feel so much more fun and, in a way, real because not everyone is going to be a ball of sunshine if you get stuck with them in an empty world—in this case both were more of a ✨square of grumpiness✨, of course but y’all get it.
That scene was one I really waited to get to because of the amount of leaks of it I saw. It was continued by a pretty emotional confirmation (? I don’t know if that’s exactly right to say buttt it’s fine) that there, in fact, isn’t anyone else and they have to start working together to try and maybe find more people.
Then came the rules the MMC decided on—first one and most important one: “No names.”
I’m honestly not sure how to elaborate here without spoiling much, so I’ll just say I wanted to rip my hair out when reading the things connected to it.
“It’s for the best I don’t know it, I think bitterly as I step beneath the thankfully warm water. It’s barely been a day, and I’m already obsessed. Attaching a name to my obsession will only make it worse.”
The MMC’s toxic obsession was one of the MANY reasons I loved him way too much in this book. It’s my guilty pleasure—a man who’s so intoxicated by the FMC he can’t function without her and gets hard constantly around her.
That reminds me of the smut part, actually haha 😂
From all of Ayelet Eden’s books, this is the least spicy—but when the spice does come, oh boy. Y’all are NOT ready for it.
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again—this woman is a witch. Every time I crave a specific type of smut, she releases a book, and guess what? IT'S THERE.
I’m not going to spoil it here for you unhinged gals who like to be surprised, but let’s just say the dirty talk alone will make you need to drink a whole cold Stanley cup of water & take an hour-long freezing shower 🔥🔥
Honestly kinda creepy how she knows it every time. Which brings me to my next point that might as well be my favourite part of the book hehe.
When I saw the posts about the book being dystopian, I was really excited because I love strange books. Always preferred the slightly paranormal stuff (or extremely paranormal lol), and dystopian gives that vibe.
But then I saw the posts about the creepiness of the book. Let’s just say I never waited for a book more than I did this one (And I read Iron Flame a little after it came out and waited for Onyx Storm and now the rest of the Empyrean series).
The creepy parts of the book made me feel physically uneasy—the strange animal disappearances, their strange looks, the time in the book, things that aren’t supposed to be in places, and locations being wrong. I absolutely LOVED everything😍
I had only two problems with this book:
1—it ended. What do you mean it ended? I wanted more.
2—The ending. WHAT DO YOU MEAN THE BOOK ENDS THIS WAY?
Anyways…to sum it all up, this book was absolute perfection—from the FMC & MMC being toxically obsessed and dependent, to the creepiness, to the romance that bloomed between them.
Lastly, I really want to thank Ayelet for being there to listen to my yaps because it was A LOT and for such a long time 😭😭, and to thank her for letting me be on the ARC team.
I will update this later (when the book is officially out) to add some of my fav quotesss.
I definitely recommend this hahahah
I loved literally every single part of this book so much it isn’t even funny. I’ve read every single one of Ayelet’s books that are out, and this is the best one by far! I wanted to savour it so much it took me 9 hours to finish (mind you, I usually read at 60+ pages an hour and 100+ on a really good day).
The desperation the FMC experiences while trying to find someone, anyone, and the desperation to fully understand the entire situation made me hooked from the first page—partially because I connected with her in a few ways and enjoyed reading from her point of view.
“Give me one good reason not to blow your fucking head off.”
Might be one of my favourite quotes of all time. LOLL
I saw leaks about this quote many times, and even made a post about it myself on my own booktok account (y'all follow its booktok.mayka). To say I was waiting for it would be an understatement.
When I finally got to that moment, I literally got up, jumped happily, and sat back down to yap to Ayelet about it (I truly feel bad for her; it was so many messages).
The MMC’s & FMC’s bickering and threatening each other’s lives—or what I would call flirting— made this book feel so much more fun and, in a way, real because not everyone is going to be a ball of sunshine if you get stuck with them in an empty world—in this case both were more of a ✨square of grumpiness✨, of course but y’all get it.
That scene was one I really waited to get to because of the amount of leaks of it I saw. It was continued by a pretty emotional confirmation (? I don’t know if that’s exactly right to say buttt it’s fine) that there, in fact, isn’t anyone else and they have to start working together to try and maybe find more people.
Then came the rules the MMC decided on—first one and most important one: “No names.”
I’m honestly not sure how to elaborate here without spoiling much, so I’ll just say I wanted to rip my hair out when reading the things connected to it.
“It’s for the best I don’t know it, I think bitterly as I step beneath the thankfully warm water. It’s barely been a day, and I’m already obsessed. Attaching a name to my obsession will only make it worse.”
The MMC’s toxic obsession was one of the MANY reasons I loved him way too much in this book. It’s my guilty pleasure—a man who’s so intoxicated by the FMC he can’t function without her and gets hard constantly around her.
That reminds me of the smut part, actually haha 😂
From all of Ayelet Eden’s books, this is the least spicy—but when the spice does come, oh boy. Y’all are NOT ready for it.
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again—this woman is a witch. Every time I crave a specific type of smut, she releases a book, and guess what? IT'S THERE.
I’m not going to spoil it here for you unhinged gals who like to be surprised, but let’s just say the dirty talk alone will make you need to drink a whole cold Stanley cup of water & take an hour-long freezing shower 🔥🔥
Honestly kinda creepy how she knows it every time. Which brings me to my next point that might as well be my favourite part of the book hehe.
When I saw the posts about the book being dystopian, I was really excited because I love strange books. Always preferred the slightly paranormal stuff (or extremely paranormal lol), and dystopian gives that vibe.
But then I saw the posts about the creepiness of the book. Let’s just say I never waited for a book more than I did this one (And I read Iron Flame a little after it came out and waited for Onyx Storm and now the rest of the Empyrean series).
The creepy parts of the book made me feel physically uneasy—the strange animal disappearances, their strange looks, the time in the book, things that aren’t supposed to be in places, and locations being wrong. I absolutely LOVED everything😍
I had only two problems with this book:
1—it ended. What do you mean it ended? I wanted more.
2—The ending. WHAT DO YOU MEAN THE BOOK ENDS THIS WAY?
Anyways…to sum it all up, this book was absolute perfection—from the FMC & MMC being toxically obsessed and dependent, to the creepiness, to the romance that bloomed between them.
Lastly, I really want to thank Ayelet for being there to listen to my yaps because it was A LOT and for such a long time 😭😭, and to thank her for letting me be on the ARC team.
I will update this later (when the book is officially out) to add some of my fav quotesss.
I definitely recommend this hahahah
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 ⭐️ Spoilers ahead! read at your own risk
Thank you so much to Ayelet Eden and her team for sending me an ARC of 'An Empty Playground'! I started reading it this afternoon and finished it in about four hours, which should probably tell you something about how invested I was.
The premise is such a good one: two people wake up completely alone in the world, with no idea where everyone has gone or what has happened. Naturally, my immediate thought was- simulation. I instantly thought of 'The Hollow' on Netflix, and from that point onwards I was essentially conducting my own investigation alongside Adam and Eve. I had theories. Many theories. Some were more dignified than others.
I know this is marketed as enemies-to-lovers, but I would actually call it reluctant allies-to-lovers, which I think fits the story much better. Adam and Eve had fantastic chemistry, and I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. It felt properly built up rather than appearing out of thin air, and there was a lovely emotional core to it. Their relationship wasn't simply about attraction; the trust and vulnerability that developed between them worked particularly well for me.
The writing was also genuinely good. It was easy to get into and kept me turning the pages, which is ultimately why I managed to finish the book in a single afternoon. I was particularly invested in the mystery and kept wanting to find out what had actually happened to them and to the world around them.
I did have a couple of little issues along the way. Early on, I found myself questioning Adam's intelligence when, despite being a soldier, he didn't seem to consider the importance of having physical maps, only for Eve to point it out. I couldn't help thinking, "you're a soldier, mate. Surely maps are rather fundamental?" But I digress.
The pacing also became a little repetitive for me at times. Not because I wasn't invested, I very much was, but because I personally wanted more of the mystery and action. I tend to gravitate towards stories with a bit more going on, and I found myself considerably more interested in figuring out what was happening than in the day-to-day survival. Towards the end, I even found myself skimming some of the more intimate scenes because I was far too invested in finding out what happened next. Apparently I have priorities.
And then there was the pregnancy.
The pregnancy jumpscare.
I can't lie: I hated it. 😂 Even though there were plenty of signs pointing towards it, I was still sitting there thinking, 'oh, for God's sake'. Sometimes you can see a plot development coming from several miles away and still be personally offended when it arrives.
Interestingly, I kept thinking throughout the book that this would make an excellent survival/mystery television series. The premise is incredibly visual: two people alone in an empty world, the eerie isolation, the mystery gradually unfolding, and the relationship developing alongside it. I could absolutely see myself watching this every week and becoming increasingly insufferable with my theories. A short 8-episode special, only two actors, a one or two man show, it could be a masterpiece.
And then we get to the ending.
If this wasn't a simulation, I would eat my own socks.
Overall, I really enjoyed ' An Empty Playground'. The writing was engaging, the premise was genuinely intriguing, and Adam and Eve's chemistry was one of my favourite parts of the book. I did find some of the survival elements repetitive, and I personally would have loved a little more action and a greater focus on the mystery, but I was invested enough to devour the entire thing in four hours- so clearly, it was doing something right.
A very enjoyable read, with a fascinating premise, a romance I actually cared about, and an ending that has left me feeling both smug about my theories and deeply suspicious of my own intelligence. 😂 Also I am scared to read the second book following this one because what if she's actually *whispers* preganant? how was this prangent formed, could she be pregonant- okay I'll stop
https://youtu.be/EShUeudtaFg?si=48UCa...
**edit i checked time stamps TOOK ME 3 HOURS TO READ THIS
Thank you so much to Ayelet Eden and her team for sending me an ARC of 'An Empty Playground'! I started reading it this afternoon and finished it in about four hours, which should probably tell you something about how invested I was.
The premise is such a good one: two people wake up completely alone in the world, with no idea where everyone has gone or what has happened. Naturally, my immediate thought was- simulation. I instantly thought of 'The Hollow' on Netflix, and from that point onwards I was essentially conducting my own investigation alongside Adam and Eve. I had theories. Many theories. Some were more dignified than others.
I know this is marketed as enemies-to-lovers, but I would actually call it reluctant allies-to-lovers, which I think fits the story much better. Adam and Eve had fantastic chemistry, and I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop. It felt properly built up rather than appearing out of thin air, and there was a lovely emotional core to it. Their relationship wasn't simply about attraction; the trust and vulnerability that developed between them worked particularly well for me.
The writing was also genuinely good. It was easy to get into and kept me turning the pages, which is ultimately why I managed to finish the book in a single afternoon. I was particularly invested in the mystery and kept wanting to find out what had actually happened to them and to the world around them.
I did have a couple of little issues along the way. Early on, I found myself questioning Adam's intelligence when, despite being a soldier, he didn't seem to consider the importance of having physical maps, only for Eve to point it out. I couldn't help thinking, "you're a soldier, mate. Surely maps are rather fundamental?" But I digress.
The pacing also became a little repetitive for me at times. Not because I wasn't invested, I very much was, but because I personally wanted more of the mystery and action. I tend to gravitate towards stories with a bit more going on, and I found myself considerably more interested in figuring out what was happening than in the day-to-day survival. Towards the end, I even found myself skimming some of the more intimate scenes because I was far too invested in finding out what happened next. Apparently I have priorities.
And then there was the pregnancy.
The pregnancy jumpscare.
I can't lie: I hated it. 😂 Even though there were plenty of signs pointing towards it, I was still sitting there thinking, 'oh, for God's sake'. Sometimes you can see a plot development coming from several miles away and still be personally offended when it arrives.
Interestingly, I kept thinking throughout the book that this would make an excellent survival/mystery television series. The premise is incredibly visual: two people alone in an empty world, the eerie isolation, the mystery gradually unfolding, and the relationship developing alongside it. I could absolutely see myself watching this every week and becoming increasingly insufferable with my theories. A short 8-episode special, only two actors, a one or two man show, it could be a masterpiece.
And then we get to the ending.
If this wasn't a simulation, I would eat my own socks.
Overall, I really enjoyed ' An Empty Playground'. The writing was engaging, the premise was genuinely intriguing, and Adam and Eve's chemistry was one of my favourite parts of the book. I did find some of the survival elements repetitive, and I personally would have loved a little more action and a greater focus on the mystery, but I was invested enough to devour the entire thing in four hours- so clearly, it was doing something right.
A very enjoyable read, with a fascinating premise, a romance I actually cared about, and an ending that has left me feeling both smug about my theories and deeply suspicious of my own intelligence. 😂 Also I am scared to read the second book following this one because what if she's actually *whispers* preganant? how was this prangent formed, could she be pregonant- okay I'll stop
https://youtu.be/EShUeudtaFg?si=48UCa...
**edit i checked time stamps TOOK ME 3 HOURS TO READ THIS
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
I really wanted to enjoy An Empty Playground, because the premise immediately caught my attention. A seemingly empty world, two people searching for other survivors, strange paranormal elements, survival, and an enemies-to-lovers romance sounded like something I would love. Unfortunately, while I thought the concept had a lot of potential, the execution fell very flat for me.
My biggest issue was that the story felt surprisingly shallow. Both main characters are clearly meant to have complicated histories and emotional baggage, but I never felt like I truly got to know either of them. Their pasts are often vaguely referenced rather than explored in enough depth to make their behaviour or relationship feel fully grounded. The heroine also spends a great deal of the story frightened, crying, or relying on the male lead, which made it difficult for me to connect with her as a protagonist.
I also struggled with the enemies-to-lovers aspect. I never really understood what made these characters enemies beyond distrust, antagonistic comments, and the male lead occasionally behaving threateningly. Their eventual relationship developed without enough emotional groundwork for me, and once they were together, much of the romantic dialogue felt generic rather than specific to these two characters.
The dialogue and internal narration were another sticking point for me. Emotional beats are frequently explained very directly rather than being allowed to emerge through character behaviour and subtext. Because I was so often being told what the characters were feeling and what their interactions meant, some scenes that were clearly intended to feel vulnerable or romantic unfortunately came across as awkward to me instead.
I was particularly disappointed by the survival and paranormal aspects because these were some of the most interesting parts of the premise. The characters spend significant time travelling and camping while searching for other people and animals, but much of that journey felt like movement from one location to another rather than meaningful exploration or survival. I kept waiting for the environment to become a character in its own right—for scarcity, danger, discoveries, or the eerie absence of other life to really matter—but many of those opportunities went unexplored.
There are also genuinely intriguing paranormal moments, including some disturbing encounters with wildlife, that immediately made me want to know more. Unfortunately, these elements are often introduced and then left behind before they can be developed. I found myself considerably more curious about the strange world and what had happened to it than the central romance.
The conflicts between the leads also didn’t always work for me. Several arguments felt disproportionate to what caused them and seemed designed primarily to create romantic or sexual tension rather than arising naturally from their personalities and circumstances. Likewise, the intimate scenes felt familiar compared with other romance novels I’ve read and didn’t add the character-specific depth I was hoping for.
Finally, although the story clearly aims for a strong emotional impact, I unfortunately didn’t feel much by the ending. I understood what the characters were supposed to be feeling, but I never became emotionally invested enough in them or their relationship for those moments to land with me. The cliffhanger does leave plenty unresolved for the second half of the duet, but I wish this first installment had given more answers and development to the mysteries it introduced.
There is a compelling story buried in An Empty Playground, and I can understand why readers who enjoy romance-forward, trope-heavy stories may have a very different experience with it. For me, though, the fascinating premise promised considerably more depth, survival, mystery, and character development than I ultimately found on the page.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. This review reflects my own reading experience and opinions.
My biggest issue was that the story felt surprisingly shallow. Both main characters are clearly meant to have complicated histories and emotional baggage, but I never felt like I truly got to know either of them. Their pasts are often vaguely referenced rather than explored in enough depth to make their behaviour or relationship feel fully grounded. The heroine also spends a great deal of the story frightened, crying, or relying on the male lead, which made it difficult for me to connect with her as a protagonist.
I also struggled with the enemies-to-lovers aspect. I never really understood what made these characters enemies beyond distrust, antagonistic comments, and the male lead occasionally behaving threateningly. Their eventual relationship developed without enough emotional groundwork for me, and once they were together, much of the romantic dialogue felt generic rather than specific to these two characters.
The dialogue and internal narration were another sticking point for me. Emotional beats are frequently explained very directly rather than being allowed to emerge through character behaviour and subtext. Because I was so often being told what the characters were feeling and what their interactions meant, some scenes that were clearly intended to feel vulnerable or romantic unfortunately came across as awkward to me instead.
I was particularly disappointed by the survival and paranormal aspects because these were some of the most interesting parts of the premise. The characters spend significant time travelling and camping while searching for other people and animals, but much of that journey felt like movement from one location to another rather than meaningful exploration or survival. I kept waiting for the environment to become a character in its own right—for scarcity, danger, discoveries, or the eerie absence of other life to really matter—but many of those opportunities went unexplored.
There are also genuinely intriguing paranormal moments, including some disturbing encounters with wildlife, that immediately made me want to know more. Unfortunately, these elements are often introduced and then left behind before they can be developed. I found myself considerably more curious about the strange world and what had happened to it than the central romance.
The conflicts between the leads also didn’t always work for me. Several arguments felt disproportionate to what caused them and seemed designed primarily to create romantic or sexual tension rather than arising naturally from their personalities and circumstances. Likewise, the intimate scenes felt familiar compared with other romance novels I’ve read and didn’t add the character-specific depth I was hoping for.
Finally, although the story clearly aims for a strong emotional impact, I unfortunately didn’t feel much by the ending. I understood what the characters were supposed to be feeling, but I never became emotionally invested enough in them or their relationship for those moments to land with me. The cliffhanger does leave plenty unresolved for the second half of the duet, but I wish this first installment had given more answers and development to the mysteries it introduced.
There is a compelling story buried in An Empty Playground, and I can understand why readers who enjoy romance-forward, trope-heavy stories may have a very different experience with it. For me, though, the fascinating premise promised considerably more depth, survival, mystery, and character development than I ultimately found on the page.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. This review reflects my own reading experience and opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, thanks Ayelet, for giving me the opportunity to read this upfront.
Overall, I found the concept of this book genuinely intriguing, but I kept wishing it would push every element further. There were things I really enjoyed, but if both the strengths and the darker aspects had been more extreme, I probably would have enjoyed the book much more.
What I liked:
The strongest part for me was the loneliness. Especially at the beginning, the author captured the unsettling feeling of a world that simply stopped in the middle of living. Empty houses, abandoned belongings, silent public spaces, everything was still there, but the people were gone. That atmosphere worked really well for me.
I also loved experiencing Adam’s yearning. Give me a man who is strong, capable and masculine on the outside but soft and sensitive underneath, and I’m there. Watching him slowly develop feelings for Eve, worry about her and begin to see her as his home was one of my favorite parts of the story. His vulnerability and tenderness were far more compelling to me than his dominant “alpha” persona.
The Adam and Eve symbolism also caught my attention. Once the book began suggesting that they might be the Adam and Eve of a new world, I became genuinely curious. Were they chosen? Was the old world destroyed? Were they expected to repopulate it? The later hints that their reality might be artificial, the blocked borders, distorted time, misplaced objects and the feeling of being watched, had so much potential.
What didn’t work for me:
My biggest issue was that the world never felt apocalyptic enough.
For far too long, electricity, running water, refrigerators, industrial ovens, hotels and even gym equipment continued working almost normally. Fresh food remained available much longer than felt believable, and the collapse of infrastructure barely affected their journey. It took until surprisingly late in the book for spoiled milk, canned food and unreliable electricity to become relevant.
I wanted the world to deteriorate around them. I wanted food to rot, power grids to fail, water and fuel to become scarce, cities to flood or burn, animals to reclaim populated areas and survival to become genuinely difficult. A harsher world would have intensified both the loneliness and the characters’ dependence on each other.
I had a similar problem with the central mystery. There simply weren’t enough clues early on. In hindsight, I can see the "Truman Show" style direction, but while reading, the strange moments were too few and too far apart. I wish the story had unsettled me from the beginning with repeating locations, impossible distances, missing memories, inconsistent time or objects appearing where they shouldn’t. That would have made the eventual reveal feel carefully constructed rather than like an explanation being withheld for the sequel.
The romance also suffered from tonal inconsistencies. There were moments when Eve was vulnerable or experiencing a genuine crisis, and I expected the intimacy between them to become softer. Instead, Adam would sometimes switch into teasing or generic dominant dirty talk that felt completely wrong for the emotional situation.
His age made some of it even harder to believe. A 21-year-old can absolutely be sexually experienced, but Adam often sounded like a 35-year-old dominant romance hero placed inside the body of a much younger man. His yearning and sensitivity felt natural; the prepackaged alpha persona did not.
In the end, I liked the premise, parts of the atmosphere and Adam’s emotional development. But the book felt too restrained in all the areas where I wanted it to commit: the apocalypse wasn’t apocalyptic enough, the mystery wasn’t strange enough, and the intimate moments weren’t always emotionally appropriate.
If those elements had been pushed further, if the world had been harsher, the clues more disturbing and the romance softer where it needed to be, I probably would have enjoyed this so much more.
Overall, I found the concept of this book genuinely intriguing, but I kept wishing it would push every element further. There were things I really enjoyed, but if both the strengths and the darker aspects had been more extreme, I probably would have enjoyed the book much more.
What I liked:
The strongest part for me was the loneliness. Especially at the beginning, the author captured the unsettling feeling of a world that simply stopped in the middle of living. Empty houses, abandoned belongings, silent public spaces, everything was still there, but the people were gone. That atmosphere worked really well for me.
I also loved experiencing Adam’s yearning. Give me a man who is strong, capable and masculine on the outside but soft and sensitive underneath, and I’m there. Watching him slowly develop feelings for Eve, worry about her and begin to see her as his home was one of my favorite parts of the story. His vulnerability and tenderness were far more compelling to me than his dominant “alpha” persona.
The Adam and Eve symbolism also caught my attention. Once the book began suggesting that they might be the Adam and Eve of a new world, I became genuinely curious. Were they chosen? Was the old world destroyed? Were they expected to repopulate it? The later hints that their reality might be artificial, the blocked borders, distorted time, misplaced objects and the feeling of being watched, had so much potential.
What didn’t work for me:
My biggest issue was that the world never felt apocalyptic enough.
For far too long, electricity, running water, refrigerators, industrial ovens, hotels and even gym equipment continued working almost normally. Fresh food remained available much longer than felt believable, and the collapse of infrastructure barely affected their journey. It took until surprisingly late in the book for spoiled milk, canned food and unreliable electricity to become relevant.
I wanted the world to deteriorate around them. I wanted food to rot, power grids to fail, water and fuel to become scarce, cities to flood or burn, animals to reclaim populated areas and survival to become genuinely difficult. A harsher world would have intensified both the loneliness and the characters’ dependence on each other.
I had a similar problem with the central mystery. There simply weren’t enough clues early on. In hindsight, I can see the "Truman Show" style direction, but while reading, the strange moments were too few and too far apart. I wish the story had unsettled me from the beginning with repeating locations, impossible distances, missing memories, inconsistent time or objects appearing where they shouldn’t. That would have made the eventual reveal feel carefully constructed rather than like an explanation being withheld for the sequel.
The romance also suffered from tonal inconsistencies. There were moments when Eve was vulnerable or experiencing a genuine crisis, and I expected the intimacy between them to become softer. Instead, Adam would sometimes switch into teasing or generic dominant dirty talk that felt completely wrong for the emotional situation.
His age made some of it even harder to believe. A 21-year-old can absolutely be sexually experienced, but Adam often sounded like a 35-year-old dominant romance hero placed inside the body of a much younger man. His yearning and sensitivity felt natural; the prepackaged alpha persona did not.
In the end, I liked the premise, parts of the atmosphere and Adam’s emotional development. But the book felt too restrained in all the areas where I wanted it to commit: the apocalypse wasn’t apocalyptic enough, the mystery wasn’t strange enough, and the intimate moments weren’t always emotionally appropriate.
If those elements had been pushed further, if the world had been harsher, the clues more disturbing and the romance softer where it needed to be, I probably would have enjoyed this so much more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review!
This was… very strange??? The premise genuinely had me because everyone in the world randomly disappearing one day, leaving behind two complete strangers who have spent weeks travelling across the US trying to find another living person, only for those two people to be called Adam and Eve is actually such an interesting set up. Unfortunately I don’t think the execution did enough with it.
Adam and Eve reluctantly team up and continue travelling from state to state looking for other survivors. Adam is a soldier, Eve nicknames him Soldier Boy, he calls her Crazy Girl in return, and I could’ve happily lived without either nickname. He’s extremely standoffish at first and there is some tension as they slowly start trusting each other but once they warm up to each other the story becomes SO focused on sex.
They eventually sleep together and Eve has a bit of a crisis over all the feelings that brings up and from there it just gets progressively weirder. There’s a scene involving Adam holding a knife to Eve’s neck while making her tell him about the sex toys she’s inexplicably been carrying around in her suitcase since the apocalypse, lots of conversations about sex and their kinks and meanwhile I’m sat there thinking… HELLO??? WHERE DID EVERYONE GO???
Because that was my biggest issue!! You have SUCH an intriguing mystery sitting right there and somehow it felt secondary in its own book. There were little hints that something bigger was happening like animals had disappeared too, then suddenly there’s a bird, random thunder storms when they try to cross borders out of the US but none of it was explored enough to really build that unsettling dystopian atmosphere I wanted.
Instead there was just so. much. driving. Drive to another state. Nothing. Drive somewhere else. Nothing. Talk. Sex. Drive. Bird! More driving. Eventually they decide searching is pointless and settle down, Eve becomes pregnant and then right at the end the world starts going spotty and black.
And I’m sorry but WHERE was this energy 50 pages ago??? We suddenly get this dramatic reality is literally breaking moment out of nowhere. It didn’t feel like a cliffhanger the story had been naturally building towards it felt like the author realised there needed to be an ending and threw something dramatic in so we could get a “to be continued” for book two.
I’m definitely curious about what the actual explanation is for all this but I’m not sure I’m curious enough to do another road trip with Adam and Eve to find out.
This was… very strange??? The premise genuinely had me because everyone in the world randomly disappearing one day, leaving behind two complete strangers who have spent weeks travelling across the US trying to find another living person, only for those two people to be called Adam and Eve is actually such an interesting set up. Unfortunately I don’t think the execution did enough with it.
Adam and Eve reluctantly team up and continue travelling from state to state looking for other survivors. Adam is a soldier, Eve nicknames him Soldier Boy, he calls her Crazy Girl in return, and I could’ve happily lived without either nickname. He’s extremely standoffish at first and there is some tension as they slowly start trusting each other but once they warm up to each other the story becomes SO focused on sex.
They eventually sleep together and Eve has a bit of a crisis over all the feelings that brings up and from there it just gets progressively weirder. There’s a scene involving Adam holding a knife to Eve’s neck while making her tell him about the sex toys she’s inexplicably been carrying around in her suitcase since the apocalypse, lots of conversations about sex and their kinks and meanwhile I’m sat there thinking… HELLO??? WHERE DID EVERYONE GO???
Because that was my biggest issue!! You have SUCH an intriguing mystery sitting right there and somehow it felt secondary in its own book. There were little hints that something bigger was happening like animals had disappeared too, then suddenly there’s a bird, random thunder storms when they try to cross borders out of the US but none of it was explored enough to really build that unsettling dystopian atmosphere I wanted.
Instead there was just so. much. driving. Drive to another state. Nothing. Drive somewhere else. Nothing. Talk. Sex. Drive. Bird! More driving. Eventually they decide searching is pointless and settle down, Eve becomes pregnant and then right at the end the world starts going spotty and black.
And I’m sorry but WHERE was this energy 50 pages ago??? We suddenly get this dramatic reality is literally breaking moment out of nowhere. It didn’t feel like a cliffhanger the story had been naturally building towards it felt like the author realised there needed to be an ending and threw something dramatic in so we could get a “to be continued” for book two.
I’m definitely curious about what the actual explanation is for all this but I’m not sure I’m curious enough to do another road trip with Adam and Eve to find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2026
Thank you so much to the author, Ayelet Eden, for the opportunity to read this before the release!
📚 ARC REVIEW:
First of all I want to start by saying that the entire concept of this book already had me hooked when I first heard of it, so I got into this with very high expectations and I'm still deciding if they were really met or not…
🧭 THE PLOT:
The book follows our FMC, Eve, who suddenly finds herself entirely alone in the world—or so she thinks.
After driving around the country for a few days she suddenly meets this mysterious man (whose name is only later revealed in the book) and they decide to team up together to find out what caused the entire population to vanish and if they are truly the only two people on the planet right now.
If you‘re a fan of The Society you will definitely enjoy this since it gave me the exact same eerie vibe while reading!
Unfortunately, the plot barely seemed existent to me. Even though the book was super fast paced, some chapters felt unnecessary and more like filler chapters in order to make the book longer because nothing was happening for quite some time. And then there's also the fact that some weird stuff was happening but then it never got mentioned again.
👤 THE CHARACTERS:
What I liked was that we got diary entries of Eve throughout the entire book. However, they were too short for me to really connect with her character. I would've enjoyed them a lot more if we also got some longer entries where she genuinely lets herself talk about her emotions in order for the reader to understand what goes on in her mind, what motivations she has and what feelings occupy her body.
I really enjoyed the banter between the FMC and the MMC. Their relationship felt very realistic. The untrustworthiness in the beginning and then their teamwork becoming friendship and then something more. It felt very natural.
💭 LAST THOUGHTS:
Overall, I'd give this book 3.5/5 stars 🌟 I will definitely be reading the second book because the cliffhanger left me hooked & curious about how the story will continue!
📚 ARC REVIEW:
First of all I want to start by saying that the entire concept of this book already had me hooked when I first heard of it, so I got into this with very high expectations and I'm still deciding if they were really met or not…
🧭 THE PLOT:
The book follows our FMC, Eve, who suddenly finds herself entirely alone in the world—or so she thinks.
After driving around the country for a few days she suddenly meets this mysterious man (whose name is only later revealed in the book) and they decide to team up together to find out what caused the entire population to vanish and if they are truly the only two people on the planet right now.
If you‘re a fan of The Society you will definitely enjoy this since it gave me the exact same eerie vibe while reading!
Unfortunately, the plot barely seemed existent to me. Even though the book was super fast paced, some chapters felt unnecessary and more like filler chapters in order to make the book longer because nothing was happening for quite some time. And then there's also the fact that some weird stuff was happening but then it never got mentioned again.
👤 THE CHARACTERS:
What I liked was that we got diary entries of Eve throughout the entire book. However, they were too short for me to really connect with her character. I would've enjoyed them a lot more if we also got some longer entries where she genuinely lets herself talk about her emotions in order for the reader to understand what goes on in her mind, what motivations she has and what feelings occupy her body.
I really enjoyed the banter between the FMC and the MMC. Their relationship felt very realistic. The untrustworthiness in the beginning and then their teamwork becoming friendship and then something more. It felt very natural.
💭 LAST THOUGHTS:
Overall, I'd give this book 3.5/5 stars 🌟 I will definitely be reading the second book because the cliffhanger left me hooked & curious about how the story will continue!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Might just be my top book of 2026.
I am honestly struggling for words, it was an honour to be sent a pre release and amazed at how good it was.
I’ve never read a book with a plot such as this which it seems to be hard to find originality in the dystopian genre recently.
Every page was a head turned with plot twists I couldn’t have imagined.
Honestly well done.
The book features dual POV which can be a hit or miss but it was done perfectly.
It begins waking up and everyone has disappeared? What would you do?
because i’d certainly hope to bump into this mmc.
The flirty bickering throughout the whole book made me unable to put it down so fun and so devastating all in one.
‘ “Im listening” Please keep talking. ‘
These characters were written with such depth I hated them both and loved them at the same time. They were so human, and every bad decision, every outburst, every cry I understood.
It’s fascinating how we went majority of the book without even knowing their names let alone a backstory but I still managed to be so attached.
An FMC who’s emotional and strong always hooks me she honestly has my whole heart a woman who doesn’t back down and doesn’t need to be babied whilst equally needing a cry.
“ Is this what he wants to do? He wants me to keep my head down and nod at his words and never talk back, even when he says shit like that? Well, tough luck. He’s got the wrong girl. And I’m the only girl he currently has, so, take that, Sergeant Jerk.”
“Tell me your name, the words hang on the tip of my tongue. And then tell me more. And more. Give me all you have until nothing’s left hidden inside you.” And an MMC who wants anything other than to be stuck with her whilst secretly pining the whole time- take my money.
I can never get enough of these two and a plot with endless mystery.
Dystopian, enemies to lovers, strong fmc, mystery, secretly soft mmc. Just read this book.
Might just be my top book of 2026.
I am honestly struggling for words, it was an honour to be sent a pre release and amazed at how good it was.
I’ve never read a book with a plot such as this which it seems to be hard to find originality in the dystopian genre recently.
Every page was a head turned with plot twists I couldn’t have imagined.
Honestly well done.
The book features dual POV which can be a hit or miss but it was done perfectly.
It begins waking up and everyone has disappeared? What would you do?
because i’d certainly hope to bump into this mmc.
The flirty bickering throughout the whole book made me unable to put it down so fun and so devastating all in one.
‘ “Im listening” Please keep talking. ‘
These characters were written with such depth I hated them both and loved them at the same time. They were so human, and every bad decision, every outburst, every cry I understood.
It’s fascinating how we went majority of the book without even knowing their names let alone a backstory but I still managed to be so attached.
An FMC who’s emotional and strong always hooks me she honestly has my whole heart a woman who doesn’t back down and doesn’t need to be babied whilst equally needing a cry.
“ Is this what he wants to do? He wants me to keep my head down and nod at his words and never talk back, even when he says shit like that? Well, tough luck. He’s got the wrong girl. And I’m the only girl he currently has, so, take that, Sergeant Jerk.”
“Tell me your name, the words hang on the tip of my tongue. And then tell me more. And more. Give me all you have until nothing’s left hidden inside you.” And an MMC who wants anything other than to be stuck with her whilst secretly pining the whole time- take my money.
I can never get enough of these two and a plot with endless mystery.
Dystopian, enemies to lovers, strong fmc, mystery, secretly soft mmc. Just read this book.
September 19, 2026
★★★★★ An absolute favorite
I honestly don’t even know where to start because I LOVED this book. I knew the concept was going to be something I’d enjoy, but I absolutely did not expect to become this obsessed with the story
I really loved the FMC, but the MMC… OH MY GOD. I could probably write an entire book just about him. I became so attached to the main characters, and now I’m suffering knowing I have to wait for the next book
I especially loved the atmosphere of this completely empty world, with all the little clues slowly revealing what might have happened. The concept behind the storyline is something I had never encountered before, and it was probably what intrigued me the most. I spent SO much of the book trying to figure things out, connecting clues and coming up with theories. To the point where I couldn’t stop talking about it to my boyfriend. I would tell him all my theories and new ideas, and eventually he started coming up with theories of his own! This is genuinely the kind of story that keeps your brain working even after you’ve put the book down
And the writing is so smooth and enjoyable to read that I had an incredibly hard time putting the book down. “Just one more chapter” turned into “wait… what time is it ?” way too many times
And then… THE ENDING
I reached the last page with only one thought: WHY DON’T I HAVE BOOK TWO?! The cliffhanger was absolutely perfect. I was genuinely left in shock and immediately needed to know what happens next. I don’t think I’ve ever been so desperate to get my hands on the next book
So yes, this is a 5/5 and an absolute favorite. The story combines so many themes and elements that I love that I honestly couldn’t help but fall completely in love with it. I would die for these characters, I desperately need the sequel, and I’m probably going to keep thinking about all my theories until I get it
Thank you for this incredible read and the possibility to had access to it, now please, PLEASE give me book two !
I honestly don’t even know where to start because I LOVED this book. I knew the concept was going to be something I’d enjoy, but I absolutely did not expect to become this obsessed with the story
I really loved the FMC, but the MMC… OH MY GOD. I could probably write an entire book just about him. I became so attached to the main characters, and now I’m suffering knowing I have to wait for the next book
I especially loved the atmosphere of this completely empty world, with all the little clues slowly revealing what might have happened. The concept behind the storyline is something I had never encountered before, and it was probably what intrigued me the most. I spent SO much of the book trying to figure things out, connecting clues and coming up with theories. To the point where I couldn’t stop talking about it to my boyfriend. I would tell him all my theories and new ideas, and eventually he started coming up with theories of his own! This is genuinely the kind of story that keeps your brain working even after you’ve put the book down
And the writing is so smooth and enjoyable to read that I had an incredibly hard time putting the book down. “Just one more chapter” turned into “wait… what time is it ?” way too many times
And then… THE ENDING
I reached the last page with only one thought: WHY DON’T I HAVE BOOK TWO?! The cliffhanger was absolutely perfect. I was genuinely left in shock and immediately needed to know what happens next. I don’t think I’ve ever been so desperate to get my hands on the next book
So yes, this is a 5/5 and an absolute favorite. The story combines so many themes and elements that I love that I honestly couldn’t help but fall completely in love with it. I would die for these characters, I desperately need the sequel, and I’m probably going to keep thinking about all my theories until I get it
Thank you for this incredible read and the possibility to had access to it, now please, PLEASE give me book two !
Review of advance copy received from Author
An Empty Playground was such an unexpected read. I absolutely DEVOURED this book. It’s been a while since I’ve flown through pages this fast, but this one had me completely hooked.
The apocalyptic setting is desperate and tense, but the humor and general “well, everything is going to hell, might as well laugh” energy made it so much fun to read.
That being said, the MMC spent the first 50% of the book absolutely TESTING me.
Sir. Please. I was about to reach into those pages to shake him myself.
Then the second half shifts. Things get quieter, sadder, and strangely more intimate (both emotionally and not -insert side-eye-). The obsession with finding other people starts fading, and the characters begin considering the possibility of settling down. Creating something permanent in a world where permanence basically no longer exists.
I’m also intentionally keeping them as FMC and MMC here because even names start wandering into spoiler territory, and this is one of those books where the less you know, the better.
Because then things start getting WEIRD.
The borders never seem accessible. The timeline feels off. Hours disappear. Days don’t make sense. Memories contradict each other. The FMC and MMC cannot even agree on where they first met.
EXCUSE ME???
At that point, I stopped trusting absolutely everything.
And then the ending happens.
What. The. Fuck.
I will not spoil it, because you deserve to experience that level of confusion and betrayal firsthand, but the final pages completely reframe the entire book.
And the possibility that everything we just read might have been a dream?
Unhinged.
Absolutely unhinged.
Anyway, I need book two immediately because apparently peace was never an option.
Still can't believe I got to read the ARC for this book before it's release.
The apocalyptic setting is desperate and tense, but the humor and general “well, everything is going to hell, might as well laugh” energy made it so much fun to read.
That being said, the MMC spent the first 50% of the book absolutely TESTING me.
Sir. Please. I was about to reach into those pages to shake him myself.
Then the second half shifts. Things get quieter, sadder, and strangely more intimate (both emotionally and not -insert side-eye-). The obsession with finding other people starts fading, and the characters begin considering the possibility of settling down. Creating something permanent in a world where permanence basically no longer exists.
I’m also intentionally keeping them as FMC and MMC here because even names start wandering into spoiler territory, and this is one of those books where the less you know, the better.
Because then things start getting WEIRD.
The borders never seem accessible. The timeline feels off. Hours disappear. Days don’t make sense. Memories contradict each other. The FMC and MMC cannot even agree on where they first met.
EXCUSE ME???
At that point, I stopped trusting absolutely everything.
And then the ending happens.
What. The. Fuck.
I will not spoil it, because you deserve to experience that level of confusion and betrayal firsthand, but the final pages completely reframe the entire book.
And the possibility that everything we just read might have been a dream?
Unhinged.
Absolutely unhinged.
Anyway, I need book two immediately because apparently peace was never an option.
Still can't believe I got to read the ARC for this book before it's release.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First of all, I read this book before it came out officially and I just wanted to say that I had an issue with receiving it. The author was quick and so kind in helping me!
Now for the book!: (bear with me, English is not my native language)
The videos I saw online were super enticing. You know how a few sentences can get you hooked and it sure did that for me! I can’t try to describe the book as a mix of a lot of clichés while being creative and surprising. I’ll try to describe it without giving spoilers… you know how you have like the same type of conversations and situations happening in the books that come out after booktok came populair? It’s not exactly like that, the conversations and the stuff happening comes more naturally. It isn’t super forced and smooths in with the plot if you know what I mean.
I’m not that much of a grammar freak, certainly because English ain’t my first language… so I didn’t notice any grammars mistakes or awkward sentences. And maybe the bar is in hell but I love when authors put sentences between these “/‘ (I don’t know what they are called in English) like again the bar is low on that one but I have seen books where they don’t do it or they put every sentences said on a separate line so I’m always thankful for that :)
Also because it has its typical apocalyptic/ end of the world (is this a spoiler? I hope not??) but you don’t really know what’s going on, you are constantly waiting for the boot to drop. And like the little “hints” (that I honestly think I didn’t understand at all but maybe that’s just me) that push you in a certain direction but you’re still confused? I don’t know how to describe it.
I will certainly read book two because what the hell. I want to know!
First of all, I read this book before it came out officially and I just wanted to say that I had an issue with receiving it. The author was quick and so kind in helping me!
Now for the book!: (bear with me, English is not my native language)
The videos I saw online were super enticing. You know how a few sentences can get you hooked and it sure did that for me! I can’t try to describe the book as a mix of a lot of clichés while being creative and surprising. I’ll try to describe it without giving spoilers… you know how you have like the same type of conversations and situations happening in the books that come out after booktok came populair? It’s not exactly like that, the conversations and the stuff happening comes more naturally. It isn’t super forced and smooths in with the plot if you know what I mean.
I’m not that much of a grammar freak, certainly because English ain’t my first language… so I didn’t notice any grammars mistakes or awkward sentences. And maybe the bar is in hell but I love when authors put sentences between these “/‘ (I don’t know what they are called in English) like again the bar is low on that one but I have seen books where they don’t do it or they put every sentences said on a separate line so I’m always thankful for that :)
Also because it has its typical apocalyptic/ end of the world (is this a spoiler? I hope not??) but you don’t really know what’s going on, you are constantly waiting for the boot to drop. And like the little “hints” (that I honestly think I didn’t understand at all but maybe that’s just me) that push you in a certain direction but you’re still confused? I don’t know how to describe it.
I will certainly read book two because what the hell. I want to know!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s hard to describe how I felt about this book, while I thoroughly enjoyed the story and could not put it down, the story felt repetitive and pretty lacklustre. Since seeing the promotion of the book on TikTok and hearing the premise of the book I was immediately enthralled and could not wait to get my hands on the book and dive right into it. Considering the high stakes of the plot and advertisement of it being a heavily dystopian story I was expecting a lot more action packed intense scenes which put me on the edge of my seat, instead I felt I got too comfortable with the story and plot and so felt as though I ended up just breezing through the book hoping something more would happen.
In saying that, the characters were witty, likeable and I was certainly routing for them and the cliffhanger has certainly left me wanting more. The banter had me giddy and I enjoyed the tension between the FMC and MMC. On that same note however, I personally feel the sex scenes should be labeled as explicit rather than just detailed as some scenes where quite in your face which I wasn’t totally expecting and the amount of sex scenes also felt a bit over the top and leaned a lot more towards a romance novel than dystopian romance.
Overall I would settle for a 2.5 - 3 🌟 rating I enjoyed the story and the writing was well done I just unfortunately was expecting more. I will still dive into Book 2 and am excited to see where the story goes but do hope it delivers a lot more of the high stakes and dystopian tension. Thank you so very much Ayelet for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC!! I appreciate it, you’re awesome!! 🌷
Spoiler Fave Quote:
“The current world might be empty, but I prefer it because she’s in it. My previous life had no Eve and it’s not something to be nostalgic about.” 😭💗
In saying that, the characters were witty, likeable and I was certainly routing for them and the cliffhanger has certainly left me wanting more. The banter had me giddy and I enjoyed the tension between the FMC and MMC. On that same note however, I personally feel the sex scenes should be labeled as explicit rather than just detailed as some scenes where quite in your face which I wasn’t totally expecting and the amount of sex scenes also felt a bit over the top and leaned a lot more towards a romance novel than dystopian romance.
Overall I would settle for a 2.5 - 3 🌟 rating I enjoyed the story and the writing was well done I just unfortunately was expecting more. I will still dive into Book 2 and am excited to see where the story goes but do hope it delivers a lot more of the high stakes and dystopian tension. Thank you so very much Ayelet for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC!! I appreciate it, you’re awesome!! 🌷
Spoiler Fave Quote:
“The current world might be empty, but I prefer it because she’s in it. My previous life had no Eve and it’s not something to be nostalgic about.” 😭💗
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