Lights Out (Into Darkness, #1)
A trauma nurse whose obsession with masked men takes her into a thrilling stalker romance. Expect morally gray characters, tension, and taboo-leaning scenes—but the writing often blends discomfort with dark humor, making it a softer entry into the darker edge of romance.
Tropes & Themes
About This Book
In "Lights Out," trauma nurse Alyssa "Aly" Cappellucci finds herself captivated by masked men, particularly the enigmatic "the.faceless.man" she follows online. Her fascination leads to a provocative interaction when she drunkenly reaches out to him, setting off a chain of events that blur the lines between fantasy and reality. Aly's life takes a thrilling turn as she embarks on a complex relationship with Josh Hammond, a cybersecurity expert with a hidden past.
As their connection deepens, Aly and Josh navigate a web of secrecy, obsession, and moral ambiguity. Their evolving relationship challenges their boundaries and forces them to confront their darkest desires. The narrative delves into themes of power dynamics, consent, and the psychological impact of trauma, all while maintaining a darkly humorous tone that adds depth to the suspenseful and intense atmosphere.
Set against the backdrop of Aly's demanding career and Josh's concealed identity, "Lights Out" offers a slow-burn romance filled with tension and unexpected twists. The story's mood is both dark and intense, drawing readers into a world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred, and the pursuit of desire leads to unforeseen consequences.
What Readers Say
Readers praise the book's engaging writing style and dark humor, blending discomfort with wit. Many appreciate the intense chemistry and banter between the main characters, enhancing the romance. Fans note the book's exploration of taboo themes, offering a unique and thrilling experience. Some readers find the pacing uneven, with the latter part of the book feeling less compelling. Content warnings include explicit sexual content, stalking, and psychological trauma; reader discretion is advised.
Rating Distribution
Based on 22 Open Library ratings
Reader Reviews
6 curated reviewsAnonymous Reader
Jul 28, 1997
STRONG EFFORT
Mr. Abrahams can write! Lights Out is a well written and engrossing read. However, the ending was so depressing that I'm not sure I will be able to read another of his novels. He is the master of sympathetic tragic character
Anonymous Reader
Dec 1, 2003
Fascinating Read
This was an interesting and fascinating book. This guy is a very good writer, and weaves a great story while bobbing back and forth in time. Would definitely recommend.
Mr. Utah
Oct 24, 2010
Fast paced and fun read
This is a well written, faced paced read. Bought it after seeing that Stephen King had listed four of Abrahams' novels as among his favorites (though Lights Out was not one of the four he listed). Eddie Nye - a man released from prison after serving 15 years for a crime he didn't commit - is a sympathetic and easy character to root for. His efforts to reconnect with his family and uncover the truth about the events that led to his being sent to prison drive the story line and keep the reader turning the pages. Many of the story's twists and surprises will be seen coming by most readers. Eddie'
ReadsALot
Jul 10, 2011
Many Twists and Turns
I read a couple of Abrahams books a few years ago and decided recently to buy another. "Lights Out" is a fast paced book with many twists and turns. It has quirky elements which make it interesting/"light reading".I have been surprised at the difference in books written by Abrahams that are based in a location he dubs Echo Falls. Those books appear to be written for a young audience. (The single one I bought definitely was.) This not one of those books but one written for an adult audience.
Peter LaPrade
May 5, 2004
Average novel about revenge and redemption
I wanted to like Peter Abrahams's "Light's Out", but I just couldn't. Eddie Nye is almost likeable, as a newly released prisoner, who served 15 years for a crime he didn't committ. We slowly learn how he got himself into that mess, and we learn that things are not as they seem, with Eddie's brother, for instince. The subplot about Nye trying to figure out about "Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner" is interesting, but doesn't compensate for the weak ending.
E. S Winskill
Aug 7, 2006
Disappointing ending to well-written book
My first Peter Abrahams book. Liked the writing and the premise. The ending is improbable and unsatisfying, however. I'm in the middle of Abrahams' Oblivion, which is beautifully written. I'll keep reading him.
