ComfyPages First Book of 2026: Lights Out by Navessa Allen

Lights Out by Vanessa Allen was a fitting way to begin my 2026 reading year—engaging, atmospheric, and easy to slip into when I was craving a story that would pull me in without asking too much. From the start, it creates a sense of tension that quietly builds, drawing you forward page by page. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to read just a little longer each night, even when you promised yourself you’d go to bed early.

What I enjoyed most was the mood of the story. There’s an underlying unease that keeps you alert, paired with characters who feel grounded and believable. The pacing felt just right—not rushed, but never dragging—and I found myself genuinely curious about where the story was headed. It’s the sort of read that keeps your mind engaged while still feeling approachable and comfortable.

Starting a new reading year with Lights Out felt like opening the door to possibility. It reminded me why I love settling into a good book in the first place—the escape, the curiosity, and that quiet excitement of turning the first pages of a brand-new year of reading. It was a solid, enjoyable start to 2026, and a reminder that there’s always something special about the first story you choose to begin again.

After finishing Lights Out, it felt only right to dive straight into Caught Up by Vanessa Allen—and I’m so glad I did. This sequel picks up with a familiar sense of tension but deepens the story in a way that feels both natural and satisfying. There’s an ease to returning to this world, like slipping back into a conversation you didn’t quite want to leave, while still feeling the stakes rise with each chapter.

What stood out most in Caught Up was how the characters continued to grow. The emotions felt more layered, the relationships more complex, and the tension a little sharper. I appreciated that the story didn’t simply repeat what worked in the first book—it expanded on it, giving more insight and depth while keeping that steady pull that makes you want to keep reading. The pacing remained engaging without feeling overwhelming, making it an easy book to settle into during quiet evenings.

Reading Caught Up right after Lights Out felt like the perfect continuation and a comforting rhythm to start the year. It reminded me why reading series back-to-back can be so rewarding—you get to stay immersed just a bit longer, letting the story fully unfold. It was a cozy, engaging follow-up that made me excited to keep going, and a great reminder that sometimes the best reading moments come from not rushing away too soon.

⭐Rating: 4/5 for both books. Recommended for readers who love fast page turners, but are OK with some graphic romance scenes.