Netflix greenlights Navessa Allen's 'Lights Out' with 'Why Women Kill' producer and it's about to get scary
Some stories aren't meant to stay between the pages. Especially the ones that thrive on secrecy, danger, and the kind of pressure that leaves readers uneasy long after the final page. Netflix is now turning Navessa Allen's dark romance novel 'Lights Out' into a TV series. The book, which is the first in the 'Into Darkness' series, was first released in early 2024, later had a wider release in September. The plot centers on a trauma nurse who develops an obsession with a masked, tattooed internet heartthrob known for viral thirst traps, setting the stage for plenty of drama and steamy moments for the screen adaptation.
Hannah Schneider, known for 'Accused' and 'Why Women Kill,' is set to serve as showrunner, writer, and executive producer for the live-action adaptation. The series will also be executive-produced by Peter Chernin and Tracey Cook of Chernin Entertainment, alongside Allen herself, as per Deadline. The novel is published by Slowburn, with its sequel 'Caught Up,' debuting at No. 1 on the New York Times bestseller list in June 2025, and a third book, 'Game On,' set for release on Tuesday, March 31.
Chernin Entertainment, which is behind the adaptation, has previously produced major series for Netflix like 'Slumberland' and 'Fear Street' movies. The production house has also produced several high-profile projects for Apple TV, like 'Chief of War,' 'Truth Be Told,' and 'See.' Talking about Allen, she is an East Coast–based author whose work blends dark romance, humor, and themes of trauma and healing. She is represented by CAA via the Dijkstra Agency. Schneider is also represented by CAA, along with Jackoway Austen Tyerman Wertheimer Mandelbaum Morris Bernstein Trattner Auerbach Hynick Jaime LeVine Sample & Klein.
Notably, a supporting character from 'Lights Out' becomes the main love interest in 'Caught Up', meaning Netflix’s adaptation could pave the way for future seasons. The project also signals a shift in Hollywood’s romance trend. While studios have mostly adapted contemporary and romance hits by authors like Emily Henry, Rebecca Yarros, and Callie Hart, along with successful YA romance series such as 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' and 'My Life With the Walter Boys,' 'Lights Out' brings a darker romance into the streaming spotlight.
Notably, Netflix is heavily investing in book adaptations, as evidenced by the recent Season 2 renewal of 'Finding Her Edge.'Based on Jennifer Iacopelli's novel of the same name, Season 1 premiered on Netflix on January 22. Created by Jeff Norton, the show beautifully blends sports and romance with the complications of being a teenager. The eight-episode show follows an ice dancer, Adriana Russo (Madelyn Keys), as she trains for the World Championships amid a complicated love triangle. As per reports, 'Finding Her Edge' Season 1 ranked in the Top 10 across 81 countries, surpassed 12 million views, and peaked at #3 on Netflix's English TV chart.
