Survivor: Blood vs. Water - Episode Thirteen

Monica, such an open book!

Another solid episode in a very solid season. Ultimately, now that we're so close to the end, I can say this hasn't been my favorite season, but I've still very much enjoyed it. Even if Tyson, who was my pick to win from the beginning, takes the title and the money, it'll still be pretty straightforward and predictable because no one made moves early enough to really shake things up.

Sure, Hayden's ruckus that lead to drawing rocks last week, and his fight to the very end this week were great to watch and very valiant efforts, but at the end of the day, it was just too late, and that's what's a shame. I suppose that tends to happen when you put experienced players who don't need to warm up as much against new players who have many more things to adjust to before they start thinking as big. Nevertheless, this season has certainly been entertaining, and I didn't hate Redemption Island nearly as much as the first time!!!

The main point of conversation for me in this episode is Monica. She got pulled so far on all sides and attacked so vehemently that I really felt bad. I mean, she's a beast, and I totally respect her, don't get me wrong, but she is emotionally vulnerable and Hayden, Ciera, Tyson and Gervase ALL took advantage of that. Granted, it was the best move for all of them, but still.

Now, we're just a few days away from knowing who comes back from Redemption Island and who wins... What do you think? Is there still a chance things will get shaken up, or is it a straight shot from here?

All that and more in my latest video, which you can watch below!

Survivor: Blood vs. Water - Episode One

Blood vs. Water: Will this cast sink or swim?

We're baaack! I had my doubts about this season when they announced the premise, but my deep-rooted fandom took over quickly and my excitement at the return of Survivor was unsinkable.

I have SO MANY thoughts about the season, the twists, the premiere, it was hard to contain them all in one video, but I did. In about ten minutes, I go over how I feel about the first twists: Day Zero, voting someone off right off the bat and Redemption Island; as well as my views on the tribes and their strengths and weaknesses.

Before the season even started, I had high hopes for Tyson. I adore him and can't wait to enjoy his sense of humor and wit on the show, which I hope will be given some more attention in later episodes. Other than that, my early favorites are more on the loved ones tribe... which seems to go in line with Jeff Probst's thoughts too.

So ultimately, my picks for the loved ones tribe are Vytas, Hayden and John, with some hopes for Ciera and Rachel, who we haven't seen much of yet.

For the returning players tribe, I'm putting 80% of my chips on Tyson, with big hopes for Tina and Laura M.

What about you? How do you feel about the new season's twists? Who are your early favorites?