Dan Foster, an admitted slacker, just cracked his fifth, or maybe it's his 6th, Miller Light when the sun explodes like a dripping egg yolk from the sky while on vacation at a luxury resort outside of the Bahamas.

And that's just the start of his vacation from hell.

Dan saw the ad on Facebook. A newly constructed resort on it's own island outside of the Bahamas promising a vacation that they'll never forget. (They weren't lying about that!) He convinces his girlfriend, Mara, to join him for two weeks of fun in the sun. Except where's the sun now? It's time to up the ante from beer to booze.

The resort consists of three buildings, A, B, and C.

Building A is strictly for the wealthiest and most notable guests, Building B is more of a middle-class affair, and Building C, with little in the way of any amenities, is for the poorer folks that still want to vacation but can't really afford to.

As you can imagine when the sun explodes leaving the guests in darkness and scrambling to make sense of a non-sensical situation that tempers begin to flare pitting the guests against each other.

Thankfully, Lilliana, of Beach Bod by Lilianna fame, along with her preacher husband, Peter, are there to take charge. Their motto: Let us pray and yoga away the impending apocalypse.

Can Dan muster the courage and charisma it takes to take charge and save an entire island of people? You'll have to read this to find out.

I absolutely loved this one! Dan Foster is the antihero of my dreams. I adored him and his self deprecating sense of humor. Dan is the first to admit that he's kind of a loser. Not a bad guy per se, just not a very ambitious one. He's a guy that just lets life pass him by without putting in much effort. So imagine his surprise when other guests start looking to him for answers. He's not a leader, he doesn't want to be a leader, but maybe this will be a new chapter for him. It's time he steps up and becomes a real man. A fixer. A doer. Someone Mara will be proud of.

Speaking of Mara, she's a nurse with a heart of gold, that wants to help and save anyone and everyone. Dan's total opposite and Dan often wonders what she see's in him. We, as readers, know what she see's in him, because Dan is funny, sweet, and kind and their banter was so adorable. These two are relationship goals. Dan and Mara, forever!

The entire cast of characters were a delight in their own way. Except Rico, screw that guy!

Alan, Charles, Lenny, Gloria - chefs kiss! 👌

Lilianna and Peter were perfectly annoying and so entertaining. You'll love to hate these two.

I hope this book finds it's audience because it truly is unique, funny, and heartwarming. I am so impressed with this debut from M.J. Wassmer and I think other readers will be too. If it piques your interest even slightly I urge you to give it a try. You won't be disappointed. 4 stars!

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for my complimentary copy

Imagine you’re on a small beach in the Caribbean on a much needed vacation, and then it suddenly goes dark because the sun exploded. This apocalyptic book started with a literal boom and doesn’t let up throughout the story. There were such vivid characters here that help balance the seriousness of their situation with some lightness. The book had an interesting exploration of how people react in the face of a major natural disaster. It was fast paced, the narration was excellent, and characters you’ll root for and loathe. It’s out now and a perfect book for when you need something quick and original.

From start to finish, this plot was as messy as its characters. The only redeeming qualities were the hilariously ridiculous characters, but seriously, what did I just read!? The writing is funny, so as long as you’re going into this expecting comedy, it’s a decent read.

This one was a book I couldn't initially get into at first. For the first third of it actually. Until my interest slowly trickled in and found myself somewhat interested in continuing.

Dan Foster is on vacation in the Bahamas and suddenly, the sun explodes. The whole resort on the island is devastated and suddenly jumps into disarray, until certain "leaders" step in to dictate the island's supplies and the guests into preserving materials to survive the end of the world. Dan is determined to fight against this sudden dictatorship and along the way, his girlfriend and a bunch of new friends help him try to make an escape from this chaotic environment.

I don't think this book was for me, or just the wrong timing to even read something like this. This one was heavy in dialogue rather than plot development, and when we got things rolling it sometimes felt like a movie gone wrong. I did enjoy the idea and concept of this one, reminding me of the movie This Is The End and much like many movies I've seen that give off "end of the world" vibes.

Special thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebook Landmark for providing a digital reviewer's copy in exchange for my honest opinion of this book!

Dan and his girlfriend are off for a two-week vacation to the Bahamas to the grand opening of a resort on a private island. Unfortunately, it appears that this will be the resort's final days as well because the sun just exploded.

Fans of John Scalzi will enjoy this darkly humorous dystopian tale of what happens when a dream vacation turns into an unthinkable nightmare. The book tries to be both satirical and earnest, which didn't always work for me.

This was a fun debut from a new author and I look forward to seeing what he writes in the future!

This review will be posted to Goodreads on August 7, 2024.

I love apocalyptic/disaster movies and books even when the science doesn’t make sense (and the acting is SO bad) so this book should have been right up my alley. This started out good but then was really slow in the middle with the same confrontations happening over and over again; it got old. Add in the dated references (televangelists, Rodney King) and I almost DNF’d. Instead I skipped ahead to find out what happened and the science left a lot to be desired. Otherwise, this had some funny moments; just not enough to make it a must read.

DNF (technically):

Okay, I get the satire. It’s humorous and an accurate take. BUT it relies so heavily on the one single stereotype, hypocritical rich Jesus-freak, to ground the story and it became boring and then annoying. One idea like that cannot carry an entire story. I needed more personalities and layers. More stereotypes if that’s the way you’re going to go. It was just way too heavy handed through the first half and I couldn’t listen to the audio (which only emphasized the things I didn’t like) anymore, regardless of how spot on it is.

I also had the ebook so I did switch from the audio and start skimming the story. I do see where it goes, how it does grow bigger than the first half suggests. It’s a psychological and physical adventure. For me, it came too late and I just wasn’t interested. But for those that are hooked by the story, it is a an explosive ending, so I get it and highly recommend it if the premise appeals.

I also feel like when I accepted the advance copy (many months ago) that it was marketed as more of a summer rom-com adjacent style story. It’s definitely not. It’s a quirky present day dystopian survivalist story. Which is fine. I don’t know where my misconception originated. Just a note.

Just wasn’t entirely the book for me.

BOOK REVIEW: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emojis: 🏖️🌞🔫👰‍♀️❄️🔭

Thank you @netgalley and @wassmerwrites for an ARC of this book. It’s truly been one of my favorite early release reads to date. And happy pub day to MJ Wassmer! What an incredible authors chat tonight at @novelmemphis

Dan and Mara are on a tropical vacation when the sun explodes, leaving them under the dictatorship of the resort investor and a couple rich folks. How will they spend their last days in “paradise”?

This book was hysterical from beginning to end. The absolute chaos that ensues and the character growth all melted together perfectly in this book. Whether Dans internal monologue was bringing me to laughing tears or my jaw was on the floor by the fight or flight reactions of literally ANY side character, this book was addictive. I knew it would only get better when in the first few chapters, Dan is aggressively rude to a guy that makes his beard his personality.

I won’t spoil the ending, but the last 30% of the book had me texting everyone I know to go preorder this book for its release on August 6th. Pleasantly surprised by how the book turned out and I look forward to sharing this with all my friends. #boldsbooks #bookreviews #bookrecommendations #arc #newrelease #pubday

Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

4 stars

Underachiever Dan Foster is at a resort in the Caribbean Islands when the sky goes dark. The vacationers turn all Lord of the Flies with the wealthy guests in the nicest tower (building A) taking control of all the food and services. Dan unwittingly becomes the leader of the B&C buildings.

More of a story about caste systems and power dynamics as Dan works to save as many people as he can. Lilyanna made me want to scream but the book was written with a lot of humor.

The wittiness begins with the title- Zero Stars, Do Not Recommend which must refer to the stars in the sky after the sun explodes. It cannot possibly refer to the stars awarded for THIS debut novel by M. J. Wassmer.
Zero Stars, Do Not Recommend is a witty, diabolical look at the apocalypse through the eyes of Dan Foster. Dan is vacationing with his girlfriend, Mara in the Bahamas when the sun explodes. A dystopian society forms with a satirical cast of characters that will have you laughing out loud.
Thank you @netgalley for an ARC of this debut novel by @wassmerwrites in exchange for an honest review.

When Dan and Mara take a vacation to a brand new resort in the Bahamas, they figured they’d have a nice relaxing vacation in paradise, right? WRONG! Shortly after arrival, there’s an explosion, turning the entire island into an apocalyptic nightmare. The buildings are set up by social class, leaving the elitists to attempt to take over and fend for themselves, leaving the others to work together. This romantic comedy was an enjoyable book with friendships and relationships, being tested, while also working together for survival. Will the vacationers ever make it home? Or will they be stuck on the island forever?

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. These opinions are completely my own.

DNF. After reading the first 100 pages I have concluded this book was not my cup of tea. I urge y to try reading it yourself and form your own opinion. The story is well written, just not to my liking

This was an absolute shining star and blew my world up (yes, all puns are intentional)! The debut book “Zero Stars, Do Not Recommend” by MJ Wassmer was easily a riveting five star read for me. I can’t wait to see what he writes next!

Needing a much overdue break, Dan and Mara book a two week vacation on a remote island in the Bahamas. All is seemingly going well in Building B at their resort where they enjoy views of the courtyard and pools (they decidedly couldn’t afford Building A since they’re not the Uber wealthy; and B was better than Building C which appeared to have subpar conditions).

Enjoying the warm temps and sun, adult beverages, people watching, and time spent together, Dan and Mara aren’t sure what to think when the unthinkable happens: the sun explodes and throws everyone into darkness.

Their vacation quickly becomes a nightmare when they’re told all communication is down meaning there is no way to call for help to get off the island. And when a wealthy southern woman from Building A, a fitness and wellness influencer with a huge following, takes control of the food and security guards things go from bad to worse.

Alliances are made, lines are drawn, people are killed and all of that is on top of the SUN EXPLODING!
Will Dan and Mara form an alliance of their own? Will the situation bring them closer together or tear them apart? And how on Earth do they try to get back home to their family?

I was instantly hooked from the first sentence of the book to the very last. This was thrilling, engaging, and fast paced. It made me seriously question what I’d do in their situation. This five star read is one you don’t want to miss! Again, I can’t wait to see what the author writes next!

𝖹𝖾𝗋𝗈 𝖲𝗍𝖺𝗋𝗌, 𝖣𝗈 𝖭𝗈𝗍 𝖱𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝖾𝗇𝖽 • 𝖱𝖾𝗏𝗂𝖾𝗐

𝖬.𝖩. 𝖶𝖺𝗌𝗌𝗆𝖾𝗋

𝖱𝖾𝗅𝖾𝖺𝗌𝖾 𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖾: 𝖠𝗎𝗀𝗎𝗌𝗍 6, 2024

★★★.5

I saw this cover and immediately wanted to read it. I will say the beginning of the book does just as good of grabbing your attention as the cover does! The story follows a man who finds himself trapped on an island resort after the sun explodes and he’s conflicted in saving himself & girlfriend or fighting for all the other island resort guests. I definitely wouldn’t want to spend my summer vacation that way but definitely would love to read about it happening to other people!

As intrigued as I was for how this would all play out, I found myself unable to connect with or even really like any of the characters (and there are quite a few to choose from). I look forward to seeing what else this author puts out as the storyline it’s self was very entertaining with the craziness and humor!

Thank you NetGalley & Sourcebooks Landmark for this advanced readers copy ✨

✌🏼Two for Tuesday Book Review✌🏼
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I’m rapidly falling behind on my book reviews so today I’m on vacation and doubling down on my reviews 😂
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Zero Stars Do Not Recommend- follows our male main character who is visiting an all inclusive resort when the sun explodes. It’s a fun end of the world romp and totally unique I loved this one it was a 4 star read for me and totally unique. Special shout out to @netgalley and @sourcelandmark for the advance copy this one is out today !
*
Bitter house- was not my favorite Kiersten modglin unfortunately. It was a quick audiobook, clocking in at under 6 hours but it was a ⭐️⭐️💫 read for me. This was a weird forced proximity mystery that was just so wildly unrealistic. It’s follows a FMC who is left the family house by her grandmother who unceremoniously throws her out at 18. She leaves the house to her granddaughter and a friends son, they both don’t get along. They begin getting notes that reveal secrets about the house. It was just not good and forgettable. I was disappointed by this.
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QOTD- any fun plans this week ? My hubby and I are on vacation this week 🥰

I was so excited to read this. A comedic apocalyptic story where the sun explodes and people lose their minds?! Sounded fun! However….., it didn’t land for me. It was supposed be satirical? But it reminded me of that obnoxious, offensive humor like Bert Kreischer……no thank you. It was dated and just not funny. Witty title though and fits. Zero stars. Do not recommend.

MJ Wassmer's debut novel, "Zero Stars, Do Not Recommend" is a witty and quirky dystopian social satire focused on professional underachiever, Dan Foster, and his less-than-ideal tropical vacation.

Dan and his girlfriend, Mara, have just embarked on their vacation at an all-inclusive beach resort (think Sandals) on a secluded private island in The Bahamas. However, their time in paradise is short-lived when the sun literally explodes, plunging the island resort into chaos.

As the end-of-the-world scenario unfolds, the Elite-level guests from Building A stage a coup, and Dan inadvertently becomes a beacon of hope for the surviving vacationers from the lower-cost Buildings B and C. As class tensions between the guests rise and temperatures drop, revolution brews on the island. When they discover a small, six-person plane that could take them back to the mainland, Dan must make a choice: escape with Mara or stay and fight as an unlikely hero.

Wassmer’s writing combines quick wit, humor, and tender moments. The seamless narrative will make readers simultaneously love and hate humanity at the same time. This book is a page-turner that explores different types of masculinity and the nature of romantic relationships, adding depth to the humorous romp. Dan’s struggle to find purpose and inner strength is sure to resonate with readers and leave them pondering what “success” truly means in life.

Overall, “Zero Stars, Do Not Recommend” is a delightful, fun read that balances satire, pathos, and unexpected heroism.

I really enjoyed the escape that was Zero Stars Do Not Recommend. With a title like that, I was instantly drawn in. The plot was creative and interesting. It deals with darker subjects with dark humor (my kind of book!)— what happens when the world decides to end while you’re on vacation? A little sci fi, a little dystopian, mixed with a unique and funny voice that I enjoyed reading. The story starts off with a bang— you don’t have to wait long for the action to start. I enjoyed the deeper look into relationships and human nature, and the witty commentary on humanity in general. It reminded me of Lord of the Flies with adults. I liked that the MC’s main concern was drinking fruity cocktails instead of being a hero because honestly, same. I think this is a strong debut from MJ Wassmer and enjoyed this eARC from NetGalley. Thank you for sharing this story with me!

I don't often read dystopian novels, but when I do, I definitely like there to be an aspect of comedic relief to take away from the pit in your stomach, "could this really happen one day?" feeling. Zero Stars delivered on that much-needed level of comedy to offset the horrific anxiety this book gave me.

Dan is on a beautiful tropical vacation with his girlfriend when the sun explodes and everything goes to hell. The island is enveloped in darkness, their phones aren't working, temperatures are dropping rapidly, and the rich guests from Building A have taken all of the food and control of the island. Now, guests are forced to work laborious jobs to earn their rations, subjected to the religious regime of the rich and power hungry. He doesn't know how he's going to do it, but Dan is determined to find his way off the island and back home.

If Black Mirror had an element of comedy, this would totally be a Black Mirror episode. It was totally different than anything I would typically reach for, and I really enjoyed that aspect of it. I will say the plot started to drag a bit for me around the 60% mark, and I totally could sense the way this was going to end. Like fully predicted how this would actually wrap up.

All that being said, this is a great sci-fi leaning read that still has some lighthearted moments and can totally be classified as a beach read. If you're looking for something that is unique AND funny, add this to your list!

Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for providing me with an egalley of this title to read and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
The blurb for this book drew me right in. Dystopian? Check! A little romance? Check! Male narrator? Check! I was excited to see what it was all about. Plus the blurb was giving me Seeking a Friend for the End of the World movie vibes and I really enjoyed that film.
I want to let the author know that I loved how he took his own experiences with work and sewed them into this book. I loved that he had that first hand knowledge and was able to use it to build his main character's personality. It made the character much more authentic and real. I was able to connect with this character so well as he was flawed in ways that were concrete and genuine. He wasn't a super hero and he knew it. He was straight forward about who he was and what he could do. But despite his flaws, he still put himself out there and tried his hardest to be better and do better.
The other characters were developed well. I loved all the different personalities Wassmer wove into the book. It was really important to the theme he created. And he used so much humor in a situation that was quite dire. I definitely had laugh out loud moments. But the author was also able to create a lot of tension between the characters. And he demonstrated well how each character played off the others emotions and reactions.
The theme of the sun exploding and the characters' world coming to an end gave the book a very tense feel. This is not the first book I've read these past months that has taken place on a secluded island. As a matter of fact, it's my fourth. The plot gave an almost Lord of the Flies quality to the book. A testament to what humans will do when put into a position where they must defend themselves and their lives against other humans. The book dug down to basic human needs.
The pacing in this book was hard for me. If there was something I didn't like about the book it was that. This being Wassmer's first book I wasn't sure what to expect. Overall, he did a good job moving the book along. However, I did find it a bit slow. And while I liked the characters and the theme, I didn't feel an extreme pull to continuously have it in hand to see what would happen. It dragged a bit after the first 20% or so. I will say the last 25% really picked up and I tore through that much more quickly than the rest of the book.
The twist was great. I did know there would be one somewhere. There had to be. But I wasn't sure how it would play out and I really loved where the author took it.
Overall, this was a fun story and I'd love to read more from this author in the future.