Themes 

Obsession and control

The relationship between Aly and Josh underscores themes of obsession and power dynamics. Aly is drawn to masked men, particularly Josh, whom she tracks online. This mutual interest leads Josh to exhibit possessive behavior, including monitoring Aly's social media and violating her privacy. Their dynamic examines the fine line between admiration and toxic control, exploring manipulation and ambiguous boundaries.

Trauma and mental health struggles

The characters' traumatic histories influence their actions and decisions. Aly, affected by the toll of her job as a trauma nurse, and Josh, burdened by his father's criminal legacy, navigate life through these experiences. The story shows how past trauma impacts present relationships, creating challenges and extreme responses.

The blurred lines between fantasy and reality

In Lights Out, digital interactions blur the line between fantasy and reality. Aly and Josh's relationship, which starts online and moves to face-to-face encounters, challenges their understanding of identity and intimacy. This transition questions the nature of their relationship and their emotional and psychological investments.

Consent, boundaries, and power dynamics

Consent and boundaries are central to the novel, presenting morally ambiguous situations where consent shifts with power dynamics. 

Romance

Romance is a key element in Lights Out, despite its darker themes. Allen combines eroticism with emotional vulnerability, depicting how two troubled individuals find a semblance of healing. The portrayal of romance challenges conventional moral standards, illustrating a connection that explores unconditional love.

Quick facts

• Published in 2024, Lights Out is the first book in Navessa Allen’s Into Darkness series.

• The story features Aly Cappellucci, a trauma nurse, and Josh Hammond, the son of a notorious serial killer.

• Josh Hammond has a massive online following as a masked personality called “the.faceless.man.”

• Lights Out blends dark romance, psychological thriller, and comedic elements, creating a narrative filled with unexpected twists.

• Themes explored include stalking, obsession, trauma survival, and complex moral dilemmas faced in crisis situations.

• Navessa Allen utilized humorous Instagram reels effectively for marketing the book.

• Main characters Aly and Josh share strong chemistry and witty character banter, making their dual narrative perspectives engaging.

• The audiobook features acclaimed narrators Jacob Morgan and Elena Wolfe.

• Allen is known for incorporating deeply researched backgrounds and inspirations drawn from her life on a 200-year-old farm.

• Fred, Aly’s cat, is considered by readers to be one of the memorable stars of the book.

• Trigger warnings for Lights Out include stalking, past abuse, violence, and explicit sexual content.

About the author

Navessa Allen is an author specializing in dark and spicy romance, focusing on complex character interactions and moral dilemmas. She became a viral TikTok sensation with Lights Out, a bestseller marking the debut of her Into Darkness Trilogy. She also written fiction in various subgenres, including paranormal and romantasy. Allen lives in New England on a 200-year-old farm with her husband, their cats, and an assortment of animals.