I started this book expecting blood splatter and morally questionable romance—and instead found myself wrapped in flannel, laughing into my coffee, and swooning over a cinnamon-roll music teacher. Love in the Time of Serial Killers is not what it sounds like. It’s a rom-com for the emotionally bruised and pop culture obsessed, with banter so sharp it could be considered a weapon.

Through Phoebe’s insecure, trauma-laced lens and Sam’s unexpectedly grounding kindness, this story became a warm retreat into family, love, and healing. The CAWPILE scores reflect it all—10s in character, atmosphere, writing, plot, and enjoyment. It gave me everything I didn’t know I was craving: a literary dissertation meets the soft side of romance.

Discover Lights Out, rated highly across all key storytelling elements. A five-star masterpiece that will stay with you long after the final page!

In 1761, on a sunny day in September, a King and Queen met for the very first time. They were married within hours.