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“Lights Out: A Dark Roast of Mystery and Tragedy”

Holly Black’s Lights Out immerses readers in a world of intergalactic coffee production, blending mundane tasks with a touch of cosmic intrigue. Told in the first person by an unnamed narrator working at a space station, the story combines a murder mystery with a poignant exploration of identity, change, and consequences.

The narrator is our guide through the intricacies of life on the station, from coffee-related banter to their paralyzing fear of the dark. The narrative takes a chilling turn when blackouts lead to mysterious deaths, and the arrival of the Twelfth Doctor propels the investigation forward. While the twist—that the narrator is the killer—is predictable for seasoned Doctor Who fans, Black’s strength lies in her ability to weave themes of transformation and tragedy into the tale.

The narrator’s revelation as a laboratory-created monster, feeding on adrenaline and struggling with the uncontrollable needs of adolescence, is a profound metaphor for puberty. The story’s emotional depth shines through the monster’s internal conflict, as they grapple with their actions and ultimate sacrifice to save the station.

The Twelfth Doctor is beautifully written here, displaying his characteristic mix of sharp intellect, compassion, and moral ambiguity. His interactions with the Fifty-One (the narrator) are both probing and empathetic, capturing his ability to understand even the most alien of creatures. The revelation that the Doctor’s past actions inadvertently caused the station’s tragedies adds a layer of poetic irony, underscoring the complexities of his role as a hero.

The story concludes not with a bombastic resolution but with a reflective moment of choice, as the narrator makes a fateful decision to ensure the safety of others. This subdued ending mirrors the intimate scale of the tale, focusing on character and theme rather than spectacle.

📝Verdict: 78/100

Lights Out is a small but poignant story, blending a straightforward mystery with rich thematic undertones. While the twist may lack surprise, its execution and emotional resonance more than compensate. Holly Black crafts a tale that lingers, much like the aftertaste of a strong cup of coffee—dark, bittersweet, and deeply reflective. A thoughtful addition to the Doctor Who mythos.