UNTIL this year, I was a Love Island virgin, and before I watched my first episode there was only one thing I felt sure of - that I'd hate it.
The reason I didn't avoid it this year, as I had previously, is this time around I would be following the fate Somerset water engineer Jake Cornish, in my role as a reporter for the county.
And while there are so many things I do dislike about the ITV matchmaking show, I am now hooked nonetheless.
Surprises abound every episode - and I'm not just talking about the Club 18-30-esque villa games.
So, just three weeks in, here are my top five things I didn't see coming when, strictly for work purposes, I first tuned in...
1. I actually enjoy it
When I say I enjoy it, I think it would be fairer to say, I'm a bit addicted.
There are some clever mind games being played by the makers of this show, meaning once you're in, you're all the way in - totally invested and unable to miss an episode.
2. I'm desperate for a holiday
I don't think I'm alone here in feeling, every time you see the islanders relaxing or sipping a cold drink on a balmy evening, that I really, really need a proper holiday.
Ideally in a villa, with a pool and day beds in the garden...
Anyway, it took me by surprise just how much I yearn to get away.
3. Faye is a legend
This is a biggie.
Perhaps I was being judgemental but initially I thought I'd have nothing in common with Devon's Faye Winter.
However, after "getting to know her" over the last few weeks, I am now convinced we could be BEST friends.
She tells it like it is, is totally self-deprecating and is an absolute hoot. I love her.
4. I care about the contestants
Who knew I'd actually care if the islanders found love? Not me, that's for sure.
But I do. I really do.
I would love nothing more than for those in "friendship couples" to find their Mr or Mrs Right and those already coupled up to not be hurt by their current beau.
5. What's with all the underboob?
This one is probably my age showing, but the amount of underboob on show, whether a daytime bikini or evening cocktail dress, has definitely come as a surprise.
In all honesty, so has the frequency of thong action - it has to be up there as one of the cheekiest of programmes, in every sense of the word.
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