Lights Out
I flew through the audiobook version of Navessa Allen’s "Lights Out"! While this novel is super spicy and a bit morbid, I highly recommend it for its witty banter.
I mean, the banter is bantering!
Allen expertly delivered on the dialogue, making it a truly immersive listening experience that fully engaged me. It also made it easy to follow along and mindlessly listen to.
“Never attempt to apply logic to madness, for there is none; it is the nature of madness to be illogical.”
Although this story is undeniably morbid, as someone who has experienced my fair share of trauma, I surprisingly found it entertaining and somewhat relatable. Allen's unique approach to dark themes is thought-provoking and captivating.
However, be warned: this book contains explicit content that may make some readers uncomfortable. This includes graphic sexual content, murder, and other sensitive topics. While it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment, it did take some getting used to.
One aspect that felt slightly disconnected was Aly's mob family background. While it added an interesting layer to the story, it seemed like an afterthought rather than a fully fleshed-out concept. Nevertheless, Josh and Aly's relationship was a highlight of the book, and I adored their dynamic—especially because it wasn’t just Josh stalking Aly; it was really Aly stalking Josh first.
“My evil plan was working. Step one: get Aly to drop her guard. Step two: fuck her on this couch. Oh, wait, no. I’d skipped a few steps somewhere.”
What impressed me most was how seamlessly the intimate, spicy scenes between Josh and Aly were blended into the narrative. Unlike some books where explicit content can feel forced or gratuitous, Allen struck a perfect balance. The chemistry between Josh and Aly is palpable, and their physical relationship serves a purpose in advancing the plot and deepening their emotional connection.
Josh's backstory, in particular, was expertly woven throughout the narrative, providing depth and context to his character. The supporting cast, including douchebag Tyler, added complexity to Josh's development. I actually loved their friendship and Tyler’s unwavering support for Josh. These small details added a lot to the story.
“A couple who slays together, stays together.”
Overall, I highly recommend "Lights Out" for fans of dark, witty stories with engaging characters. I'm eagerly anticipating the release of book two this summer!
Rating: 4/5
