Review Detail

OUTER BANKS: LIGHTS OUT is a fast-paced and engaging YA contemporary, featuring a new story with the characters from the Netflix show. Told from dual perspectives of JJ and John B, the story feels as if takes place prior to the events of the show. It is Spring Break, and John B, JJ, Kiara, and Pope are up to their hijinks with a new plot to steal alcohol from the Tourons/Kooks, the wealthy people who live in or vacation in the Outer Banks. As proud Pogues (or honorary pogue in Kiara's case), they only cross paths with the Kooks and Tourons when they must.

After a rough night when John B is feeling the absence of his father and JJ receives his father's abuse, they come up with a plan to go spearfishing. Unable to convince Kiara and Pope to go with them, they head out on their own, only to end up right next to some Tourons, including the intriguing Savannah who does not quite act like the others and challenges them in a bet. After a storm rolls in, Savannah winds up abandoned by her Touron boyfriend and the three must find shelter in an abandoned lighthouse - where smugglers also decide to ride out the storm. In this life-or-death situation, they'll need to use their wits and their plots to survive the night.

What I loved: This was fantastically fun with a light suspense feel and a fast-pace that make the pages turn quickly. The characters are easy to like and become quickly invested in. Both John B and JJ are coming to terms with their fathers, who they want to be, and defining family. This harrowing night will have them re-examining what their lives and friendships. I found this story and characters so compelling that I ended up checking out the show afterwards. This was a really riveting and surprising read with plenty of twists and turns to keep the readers on their toes and banter and humor to break up the intensity.

There are some intriguing themes around family/found family, friendship, parental relationships, blurry lines between good and bad, the complexity of people, and socioeconomic differences. The friendships and character development in the story really made this into a strong story with characters I wanted to follow more. The romance was an interesting touch, highlighting some of the disparities and the blurry lines in decision-making. While fans of the show may be disappointed by the relatively small roles of Kiara and Pope, but I did think it made the story-telling stronger to focus on JJ and John B, exploring their lives and bond.

Final verdict: A riveting and compelling new story, OUTER BANKS: LIGHTS OUT combines charming characters with a fun suspense plot to deliver a unique plot with thought-provoking themes. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys a good suspense read with strong character development, regardless of whether they are already fans of the show or not!