🤣 There were so many moments that had me laughing out loud.
🌶️ There were quite a few scenes I had to turn down the volume in carpool because I didn’t want the teachers to hear what I was listening to!
🏆 Josh has cemented himself as one of my all time favorite dark romance MMCs!
😕 I didn’t connect to Aly, but maybe I was just jealous because I loved Josh so much!
2025/7/19 Edited to
... Read moreOkay, so let's talk more about why 'Lights Out' by Navessa Allen is more than just another book – it’s an experience, especially if you're into dark rom-coms! From the moment I picked it up (or rather, pressed play on the audiobook), I knew this wasn't going to be a typical romance. The book cover itself, with the person in a black hoodie and blue glow, hints at the hacker element, and the trigger warnings listed are definitely something to pay attention to for a full appreciation of the story.
Let's dive into Josh, because honestly, he’s a character that sticks with you. He's not your conventional hero; he's described as a hacker and definitely falls into that 'morally gray' category, which I absolutely adore in a male main character. Imagine someone who operates with multiple computer screens, perhaps even a skull mask, and has that intense energy you see in action movies. That quote, 'slays together, stays together,' perfectly captures the kind of bond he seeks. He’s complex, fiercely protective in his own unique way, and he keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering what he’ll do next. For anyone looking for a dark romance MMC that challenges expectations, Josh is your guy.
Then there’s Aly, the trauma nurse. She's strong, capable, and her job puts her in high-stress situations daily, which makes her perfectly suited to handle someone like Josh. The imagery of her in scrubs, looking determined, really paints a picture of a woman who knows what she wants – or at least, knows what she doesn't want until Josh comes along. That desire for someone with a 'soul as black as night' who would 'burn the world down' for her? It's not just a poetic line; it’s a core part of her character's longing and what makes her dynamic with Josh so compelling. Their interactions are a mix of intense chemistry and laugh-out-loud moments, creating that perfect dark rom-com balance.
And speaking of laughs, the book truly delivers. Remember that 'baklava slid sideways' moment from the text messages? That's just a tiny glimpse into the unique humor woven throughout. It keeps the story from becoming too heavy, even with the serious undertones and necessary trigger warnings. Readers looking for a romance that doesn't shy away from darker themes but still manages to bring the fun will find a lot to love here.
Oh, and I can't forget Fred! The cats in this story, especially Fred, add such an unexpected and charming layer. For all you cat lovers out there, you'll appreciate how these furry friends, depicted on those old television screens, bring a touch of lightness and personality to the narrative. It’s these little details, like the Batman Lego figure or the contrast between a trauma nurse and a hacker, that really make Navessa Allen’s world in 'Lights Out' feel so rich and immersive. If you're pondering what to read next, especially if you're curious about Josh and Aly's unique brand of chaos and chemistry, I highly recommend diving in!