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Like Neon Mornings
This is a story about self-forgiveness, temporary love, rattlesnakes, old couches, and a shark nightlight.
Isaiah, an ex-con, tries to move past the worst mistake of his life while driving the same road where it happened. Luce, a former sex worker, looks to turn over a new leaf when she winds up pregnant from a one night stand. On her way back to her hometown, Luce's car breaks down just outside of Las Vegas. She and Isaiah meet at an auto shop, and a series of events starting with being held at gunpoint bring them into each other's lives headfirst.
Luce needs a thousand dollars to fix her car. Isaiah pitches a scheme: make the money in twenty-four hours so Luce can get back on the road, no strings attached. Nothing illegal, just flipping some furniture and picking up a party gig with his sister's catering company. For him, it starts as just a way to pass the time. For her, it's a chance to move forward. But as they explore the city with new eyes, ghosts of the past start to unveil themselves.
This is a love story. Kind of.
Isaiah, an ex-con, tries to move past the worst mistake of his life while driving the same road where it happened. Luce, a former sex worker, looks to turn over a new leaf when she winds up pregnant from a one night stand. On her way back to her hometown, Luce's car breaks down just outside of Las Vegas. She and Isaiah meet at an auto shop, and a series of events starting with being held at gunpoint bring them into each other's lives headfirst.
Luce needs a thousand dollars to fix her car. Isaiah pitches a scheme: make the money in twenty-four hours so Luce can get back on the road, no strings attached. Nothing illegal, just flipping some furniture and picking up a party gig with his sister's catering company. For him, it starts as just a way to pass the time. For her, it's a chance to move forward. But as they explore the city with new eyes, ghosts of the past start to unveil themselves.
This is a love story. Kind of.
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2023
5 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
June 22, 2023
This was really well-written. I'm so glad because I was excited to try this author, and now I'm convinced she's my next new favorite. Any author that can make two characters have such a connection over the course of twenty-four hours is all right by me. Also one of the few authors that gets this city right and actually ventures off the Strip.
August 13, 2023
Wow! Ok, listen up. Novellas generally do not appeal to me, but I picked this up after Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean left me with an intense craving for more from Shiloh Sloane. And well, she just blew my mind in under 90 pages.
The way this short story punched me right in the feels ... I am obsessed.
This short story is a work of art. A literary masterpiece. The best poem I have ever read. Absolute perfection. I am stunned by the fact that this whirlwind 24-hour romance left me with such a book hangover! I cannot stop thinking about Luce and Isaiah — these two characters are so real, so raw and flawed and alive.
Sloane redefines romance in this book. Through her unique and intensely poetic voice, she shows us that a profound and meaningful love story does not need weeks, months, or years in order to reach a life-changing depth. It just needs a few moments and two souls with broken edges that fit together so seamlessly. This is a story of how healing can find you in a moment. Of how being in the right place at the right time can completely change your life for the better.
Definitely recommend Shiloh Sloane to anyone looking for poetic depth and out-side-the-box love stories. I cannot wait to read every damn thing she publishes!
Official extras from the author:
Playlist
Mood board
The way this short story punched me right in the feels ... I am obsessed.
"How long has wanting taken a backseat to survival? All my life, I think."
This short story is a work of art. A literary masterpiece. The best poem I have ever read. Absolute perfection. I am stunned by the fact that this whirlwind 24-hour romance left me with such a book hangover! I cannot stop thinking about Luce and Isaiah — these two characters are so real, so raw and flawed and alive.
"I don’t know her yet. Not that much. But from the bottom of my damned heart, I love her like all this isn’t temporary."
Sloane redefines romance in this book. Through her unique and intensely poetic voice, she shows us that a profound and meaningful love story does not need weeks, months, or years in order to reach a life-changing depth. It just needs a few moments and two souls with broken edges that fit together so seamlessly. This is a story of how healing can find you in a moment. Of how being in the right place at the right time can completely change your life for the better.
Definitely recommend Shiloh Sloane to anyone looking for poetic depth and out-side-the-box love stories. I cannot wait to read every damn thing she publishes!
Official extras from the author:
Playlist
Mood board
March 6, 2024
I've been holding onto this book review for some time now, struggling to find the right words to give it the praise it truly deserves. Honestly, I still haven't found them. I fear I might not do it justice, but all you need to know is: this book is a must-read!
"𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘕𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴" is a captivating short novella, showcasing epic storytelling in its most authentic and unfiltered form. It's my first encounter with Shiloh Sloane’s work, and I'm certain it won't be my last. While it took me a moment to acclimate to the distinctive writing style, I soon fell in love with its poetic essence. This book is truly one-of-a-kind, unlike anything I've read before.
As far as the plot goes, I’ll only give you a little bit more than what you would get from the front and back cover. The setting is Vegas. Two strangers, an ex-con and a former sex worker, cross paths in an auto repair shop one morning. Wrong place, wrong time. Getting held up at gunpoint was just the jumping off point for a series of events that bring these two strangers together. Over the next 24 hours, Isaiah and Luce embark on a journey through the city in order to raise funds for Luce’s auto repairs. Two lives, one starting over and one who can’t escape the past, find solace and purpose in each other's company.
I'm about to indulge in a little ramble here. Realistic and raw stories? Oh, they're my absolute favorite! There's something so captivating about narratives that feel like you're right there, observing two people interact in the flesh. No fluff, no unrealistic expectations—just genuine human experiences. And endings? Well, they don't always have to be wrapped up neatly with a bow. I love the kind that leaves you pondering, crafting your own epilogue in your mind. "𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘕𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴" nailed that vibe for me—it was perfection in my eyes.
Anyway, I’m kind of tearing up as I wind own this review and go back through my highlights because this story was so…cool and awesome and meaningful.
"𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘕𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴" is a captivating short novella, showcasing epic storytelling in its most authentic and unfiltered form. It's my first encounter with Shiloh Sloane’s work, and I'm certain it won't be my last. While it took me a moment to acclimate to the distinctive writing style, I soon fell in love with its poetic essence. This book is truly one-of-a-kind, unlike anything I've read before.
As far as the plot goes, I’ll only give you a little bit more than what you would get from the front and back cover. The setting is Vegas. Two strangers, an ex-con and a former sex worker, cross paths in an auto repair shop one morning. Wrong place, wrong time. Getting held up at gunpoint was just the jumping off point for a series of events that bring these two strangers together. Over the next 24 hours, Isaiah and Luce embark on a journey through the city in order to raise funds for Luce’s auto repairs. Two lives, one starting over and one who can’t escape the past, find solace and purpose in each other's company.
I'm about to indulge in a little ramble here. Realistic and raw stories? Oh, they're my absolute favorite! There's something so captivating about narratives that feel like you're right there, observing two people interact in the flesh. No fluff, no unrealistic expectations—just genuine human experiences. And endings? Well, they don't always have to be wrapped up neatly with a bow. I love the kind that leaves you pondering, crafting your own epilogue in your mind. "𝘓𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘕𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴" nailed that vibe for me—it was perfection in my eyes.
Anyway, I’m kind of tearing up as I wind own this review and go back through my highlights because this story was so…cool and awesome and meaningful.
February 18, 2023
Once again, this author has left me speechless. This was a novella length story, that elicited more emotional response from me than most full-length novels, or even multi-book series. The magic here comes not only from the author's exquisite writing, but from her uncanny ability to flesh out her characters, making them wholly lovable, raw, and relatable.
This beautiful story is both heartbreaking and inspiring in equal measure. About two strangers crossing paths, bonding during an emotionally charged chance encounter. And end up baring their souls to each other, providing one another much needed healing, closure, and courage to go forth in their individual journeys. I laughed, cried, and felt completely seen- like this author gets all of us on some level. Even though on the surface we seemingly have so little in common, I felt such a kinship with Luce, the female lead. This is because Ms. Sloane delves deep into the motivations and traits, flaws and all, that govern most people. Most mothers, myself included, have been trying for years to articulate a certain sentiment regarding how motherhood makes us feel... And with these lines, which will stay with me for the rest of my days, she summed it up perfectly:
"If you carve all your life away, that kid'll fill the spot and push you out," she says. "But if you keep living, he'll find room."
Gems like this passage are peppered throughout this book, which is why connecting to the story and characters is so effortless and rewarding. If you read because you want to feel something, this one should move to the top of your list. I could not love it more.
This beautiful story is both heartbreaking and inspiring in equal measure. About two strangers crossing paths, bonding during an emotionally charged chance encounter. And end up baring their souls to each other, providing one another much needed healing, closure, and courage to go forth in their individual journeys. I laughed, cried, and felt completely seen- like this author gets all of us on some level. Even though on the surface we seemingly have so little in common, I felt such a kinship with Luce, the female lead. This is because Ms. Sloane delves deep into the motivations and traits, flaws and all, that govern most people. Most mothers, myself included, have been trying for years to articulate a certain sentiment regarding how motherhood makes us feel... And with these lines, which will stay with me for the rest of my days, she summed it up perfectly:
"If you carve all your life away, that kid'll fill the spot and push you out," she says. "But if you keep living, he'll find room."
Gems like this passage are peppered throughout this book, which is why connecting to the story and characters is so effortless and rewarding. If you read because you want to feel something, this one should move to the top of your list. I could not love it more.
May 13, 2025
Gagged, stunned, traumatized
December 30, 2024
I had to squeeze in one last book for 2024, and decided to choose this one. I wish I had the capacity to write a better review than I do right now, but it is what it is, and maybe I’ll come back later and update this. It took me a moment to adjust to the writing style—it often felt like a stream of consciousness. But once I did, I enjoyed it a lot. The characters in this story are ones that leave their mark on you, and I think I’ll occasionally wonder what they are up to every now and again.
I really liked this story.
I really liked this story.
November 14, 2023
Like Neon Mornings by Shiloh Sloane
"How long has wanting taken a backseat to survival?"
This was something I wouldn't usually read. I am so glad I did. Shilohs writing is pure liquid. It rolls off the tongue and gives poetic bliss. This was a novella of 24 hours of two strangers falling in love. They were raw and edgy; even I fell in love with both of them.
"He is a book on the highest shelf, fallen off and open and I want to read every page."
If you are looking for something to spark your heart and a quick full story, this novella is for you. This is something completely different from The Lindals' stories.
"How long has wanting taken a backseat to survival?"
This was something I wouldn't usually read. I am so glad I did. Shilohs writing is pure liquid. It rolls off the tongue and gives poetic bliss. This was a novella of 24 hours of two strangers falling in love. They were raw and edgy; even I fell in love with both of them.
"He is a book on the highest shelf, fallen off and open and I want to read every page."
If you are looking for something to spark your heart and a quick full story, this novella is for you. This is something completely different from The Lindals' stories.
January 15, 2025
I am an inconsolable mess of emotions. That was beautiful and tragic and painfully romantic. I’m begging Shiloh to give us another 24 hours with Luce and Isaiah 3 years into the future (because I refuse to believe that these 2 are anything but real life soulmates)
March 10, 2023
This was such a beautiful story. Shiloh writes the most amazing characters- so viscerally human, full of sharp edges and softness. The way she writes is so soothing and evokes so much feeling I’m obsessed.
The two main characters in this were both flawed, and complicated, and they boy felt so completely real. And despite the entire story taking place over the course of 24 hours, their love felt deep, and true. Instalove is a trope I generally don’t like, but this didn’t even feel like instalove. It felt like they went through an entire lifetime of romancing each other, like both of their lives had just been a build up to that day. UGH it was phenomenal, with the most perfect, soft ending.
The two main characters in this were both flawed, and complicated, and they boy felt so completely real. And despite the entire story taking place over the course of 24 hours, their love felt deep, and true. Instalove is a trope I generally don’t like, but this didn’t even feel like instalove. It felt like they went through an entire lifetime of romancing each other, like both of their lives had just been a build up to that day. UGH it was phenomenal, with the most perfect, soft ending.
February 1, 2023
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Where do I start? I started this thinking I would read a little and finish tomorrow but once I started, I couldn't put it down. Now it's almost midnight and I need more. This was so good! There was angst, and a little bit of drama. There was so much emotion and you didn't get the typical and expected happily ever after. I love how the author left enough room to continue this story and I really hope she does.
Where do I start? I started this thinking I would read a little and finish tomorrow but once I started, I couldn't put it down. Now it's almost midnight and I need more. This was so good! There was angst, and a little bit of drama. There was so much emotion and you didn't get the typical and expected happily ever after. I love how the author left enough room to continue this story and I really hope she does.
January 9, 2024
I want so much more and yet I’m completely fulfilled by this novella. Shiloh is such an incredible writer, packing so much depth into a story that is less than 100 pages. There is heart in her characters, a rawness that seeps off the pages and I fell for both of them. The story takes place over twenty four hours and yet it feels like so much more. I hope in some distant land that Luce and Isaiah are living happily ever after.
February 20, 2025
Like Neon Mornings | Shiloh Sloane
I felt like I walked off the planet, with stars dancing around my feet while reading this book! This little masterpiece was absolutely captivating! To think it all unfolds within 24 hours and just 114 pages is incredible.
"I don’t know her yet. Not that much. But from the bottom of my damned heart, I love her like all this isn’t temporary."
At first, I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, but as I got a feel for the author’s writing style, it completely won me over & she rocked it. So much happens, and it’s all executed in a way that left me wanting more. I felt like I was riding the emotional highs right alongside these characters! Luce and Isaiah had me spinning with their heartache and chemistry, and even though they might not seem like free birds at first, they ABSOLUTELY were on this special night. I was definitely pulled into their universe!
*This is a story about self-forgiveness, temporary love, rattlesnakes, old couches, the Hoover Dam, and a shark nightlight.
This was my first book by @shilohsloane but it definitely won’t be my last. I want to continue to ride this high with the author! Onto the next!
Highly Recommend! 🤌🏻🔥 please check your TW's.
Thank you to my insta gals @myloveoflit @rereadqueen @moodreadingwithash for the realest FOMO that ever lived!!!! 🤣 it finally happened for me and you girls were on point!
I felt like I walked off the planet, with stars dancing around my feet while reading this book! This little masterpiece was absolutely captivating! To think it all unfolds within 24 hours and just 114 pages is incredible.
"I don’t know her yet. Not that much. But from the bottom of my damned heart, I love her like all this isn’t temporary."
At first, I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, but as I got a feel for the author’s writing style, it completely won me over & she rocked it. So much happens, and it’s all executed in a way that left me wanting more. I felt like I was riding the emotional highs right alongside these characters! Luce and Isaiah had me spinning with their heartache and chemistry, and even though they might not seem like free birds at first, they ABSOLUTELY were on this special night. I was definitely pulled into their universe!
*This is a story about self-forgiveness, temporary love, rattlesnakes, old couches, the Hoover Dam, and a shark nightlight.
This was my first book by @shilohsloane but it definitely won’t be my last. I want to continue to ride this high with the author! Onto the next!
Highly Recommend! 🤌🏻🔥 please check your TW's.
Thank you to my insta gals @myloveoflit @rereadqueen @moodreadingwithash for the realest FOMO that ever lived!!!! 🤣 it finally happened for me and you girls were on point!
February 14, 2023
Wow. This is the first book I’ve read by Shiloh Sloane and I’m impressed. Let me be honest, I was going to pass on this book when I first read the blurb. I had too many other books I needed to read, but then I saw her TikTok video. I felt it in my heart, this woman is special. And I knew I needed to read this. I needed to get a peek into her mind.
And man did this take me on a ride. This is so raw. Almost intrusive. It truly felt as if I was a fly on the wall eavesdropping into someone’s private affairs. And I for one, loved every second of it. As a single mother, I resonated with Luce on a deep level. Wanting to be able to give everything to your child, wanting to prepare for everything and all the emotions that go with it, I get it.
Spice level (1-5): 🌶️ Vanilla and short
Three months pregnant, Luce is making her way back to her childhood home in Miami. While passing through Las Vegas her car breaks down, forcing her to pause her journey. While sitting in the waiting area, a man named Isaiah begins to make small talk with her. When the mechanic tells her the cost of the repairs to her car, Isaiah quickly jumps in to help. Not wanting to take any charity, Luce refuses, but Isaiah is dead set on helping her. Through their time trying to come up with the money, they start to bond. They have lived different lives and the only thing that connects them is the feeling of not being deserving of love and their deprivation of it. As their feelings grow stronger, so does the realization that once her car is fixed, Luce will be back on the road on her way to Miami to be with her family and Isaiah will stay in Las Vegas. Can one day change everything for these two lost souls?
I’d recommend Like Neon Mornings to anyone who wants a quick read full of emotions. This is not a complicated plot. Everything takes place within 24 hours. Yet how these characters are stripped bare, it’s special. They are both damaged in one way or another. Silently repenting for their past choices yet living one day at a time, needlessly punishing themselves. It’s a realistic depiction of life for someone who has had it hard. Who wasn’t born with a golden spoon and had to make choices to survive and live with the consequences. This is not my standard choice of reading. I tend to avoid books like these because I don’t want to think, I want to be taken elsewhere. But every so often, I’ll come across a book like this and relish in its message. And Like Neon Mornings just hit a spot I can barely describe. I’m not sure if this is what the author intended, but she’s left me speechless and with a feeling that my heart is being squeezed.
Warning: Reading this book may make you sit in a car shop waiting area hoping a hot tattooed guy will talk to you. May make you sell furniture for a quick buck. May make you want to hoard CDs in your car/truck. May make you want to bartend. May make you think about life and your future. May make you try to talk a gunman down. Don’t do that. May make you put others happiness before your own. May make you realize you are worth love and happiness. Read responsibly.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy for free and I’m leaving an honest review of my own volition. All thoughts are my own.*
And man did this take me on a ride. This is so raw. Almost intrusive. It truly felt as if I was a fly on the wall eavesdropping into someone’s private affairs. And I for one, loved every second of it. As a single mother, I resonated with Luce on a deep level. Wanting to be able to give everything to your child, wanting to prepare for everything and all the emotions that go with it, I get it.
Spice level (1-5): 🌶️ Vanilla and short
Three months pregnant, Luce is making her way back to her childhood home in Miami. While passing through Las Vegas her car breaks down, forcing her to pause her journey. While sitting in the waiting area, a man named Isaiah begins to make small talk with her. When the mechanic tells her the cost of the repairs to her car, Isaiah quickly jumps in to help. Not wanting to take any charity, Luce refuses, but Isaiah is dead set on helping her. Through their time trying to come up with the money, they start to bond. They have lived different lives and the only thing that connects them is the feeling of not being deserving of love and their deprivation of it. As their feelings grow stronger, so does the realization that once her car is fixed, Luce will be back on the road on her way to Miami to be with her family and Isaiah will stay in Las Vegas. Can one day change everything for these two lost souls?
I’d recommend Like Neon Mornings to anyone who wants a quick read full of emotions. This is not a complicated plot. Everything takes place within 24 hours. Yet how these characters are stripped bare, it’s special. They are both damaged in one way or another. Silently repenting for their past choices yet living one day at a time, needlessly punishing themselves. It’s a realistic depiction of life for someone who has had it hard. Who wasn’t born with a golden spoon and had to make choices to survive and live with the consequences. This is not my standard choice of reading. I tend to avoid books like these because I don’t want to think, I want to be taken elsewhere. But every so often, I’ll come across a book like this and relish in its message. And Like Neon Mornings just hit a spot I can barely describe. I’m not sure if this is what the author intended, but she’s left me speechless and with a feeling that my heart is being squeezed.
Warning: Reading this book may make you sit in a car shop waiting area hoping a hot tattooed guy will talk to you. May make you sell furniture for a quick buck. May make you want to hoard CDs in your car/truck. May make you want to bartend. May make you think about life and your future. May make you try to talk a gunman down. Don’t do that. May make you put others happiness before your own. May make you realize you are worth love and happiness. Read responsibly.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy for free and I’m leaving an honest review of my own volition. All thoughts are my own.*
November 11, 2023
Wow.. Probably the best novella I’ve ever read. And best written.
So much depth in 100 pages. Sloane’s writing is so beautifully expressive. Her craft is definitely unique with descriptions and endless beautiful lines like I’ve never read. A broken/healing/whirlwind 24 hour romance that felt so believable— showcasing how a single moment could change your whole life. Luce and Isaiah will definitely leave their mark.
”I see it in his dark eyes, like warm oak, like wood you build a home with, eyes that look at you like they’re already making space for you in the world.”
““What’s it like owning all of your body, all of the time?” The world is only her eyes for a moment. Only the way they plead like I can even tell her. My body has been owned by guilt for twelve years, the state for eight of them. But I know what she means. “Maybe like a loaded gun,” I tell her. “Except more than half the time, the barrel is under your chin.””
“Before we hide away in the truck, I find Isaiah in the darkness and pull him into me. He smells like fire and tastes like sugar. I love him, and his god is sobbing.”
““What’s changed?” I ask her just to hear it. “You,” she says. “Me. I think?” “Everything,” I say,..”
So much depth in 100 pages. Sloane’s writing is so beautifully expressive. Her craft is definitely unique with descriptions and endless beautiful lines like I’ve never read. A broken/healing/whirlwind 24 hour romance that felt so believable— showcasing how a single moment could change your whole life. Luce and Isaiah will definitely leave their mark.
”I see it in his dark eyes, like warm oak, like wood you build a home with, eyes that look at you like they’re already making space for you in the world.”
““What’s it like owning all of your body, all of the time?” The world is only her eyes for a moment. Only the way they plead like I can even tell her. My body has been owned by guilt for twelve years, the state for eight of them. But I know what she means. “Maybe like a loaded gun,” I tell her. “Except more than half the time, the barrel is under your chin.””
“Before we hide away in the truck, I find Isaiah in the darkness and pull him into me. He smells like fire and tastes like sugar. I love him, and his god is sobbing.”
““What’s changed?” I ask her just to hear it. “You,” she says. “Me. I think?” “Everything,” I say,..”
June 11, 2025
They meet at gunpoint at a mechanic shop by chance, and so their story begins……
This is not a typical book that I would pick up, but I had to read every single book by Shiloh.
I can’t believe the well-rounded, heart-wrenching, sweet, and profound story we are given in a short 87-page story. I applaud Shiloh for achieving this in a tiny novella.
I fell deeply in love with Isaiah and Luce. They both had such tragic stories that tore at my heart. This story dives into the human psyche and questions the purpose of life, how to love, and how to heal and move on to find happiness. The last part of this story played like a psychedelic fever dream for me 🫠 Shiloh’s unique writing style mesmerizes.
I will be thinking about this beautiful story for a long time 😭
“A seatbelt down the middle isn’t enough to keep her safe. I want to take her somewhere endless”
This is not a typical book that I would pick up, but I had to read every single book by Shiloh.
I can’t believe the well-rounded, heart-wrenching, sweet, and profound story we are given in a short 87-page story. I applaud Shiloh for achieving this in a tiny novella.
I fell deeply in love with Isaiah and Luce. They both had such tragic stories that tore at my heart. This story dives into the human psyche and questions the purpose of life, how to love, and how to heal and move on to find happiness. The last part of this story played like a psychedelic fever dream for me 🫠 Shiloh’s unique writing style mesmerizes.
I will be thinking about this beautiful story for a long time 😭
“A seatbelt down the middle isn’t enough to keep her safe. I want to take her somewhere endless”
January 5, 2025
4.5 Stars
I loved this story! There is just something about Shiloh’s writing that is so beautiful and emotional. I felt so attached to these characters and their relationship. For such a short book there was so much character development.
Like Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean Shiloh’s writing style is so unique that it’s hard to describe. I absolutely love it and it’s beautiful, but I find myself having to reread sentences sometimes because it’s so different and it doesn’t always flow. This is why I rated it 4.5 instead of 5 stars
Also have to say I love the way this story ended it isn’t a conventional ending for a romance book but that made it feel so much more realistic and it just made sense for this story.
Highly recommend this book and Shiloh Sloane in general!
I loved this story! There is just something about Shiloh’s writing that is so beautiful and emotional. I felt so attached to these characters and their relationship. For such a short book there was so much character development.
Like Then, Earth Swallowed Ocean Shiloh’s writing style is so unique that it’s hard to describe. I absolutely love it and it’s beautiful, but I find myself having to reread sentences sometimes because it’s so different and it doesn’t always flow. This is why I rated it 4.5 instead of 5 stars
Also have to say I love the way this story ended it isn’t a conventional ending for a romance book but that made it feel so much more realistic and it just made sense for this story.
Highly recommend this book and Shiloh Sloane in general!
August 18, 2023
Well then.
Just as I expected. This book completely spellbound me.
I’m not surprised at all. Shiloh seems to have that effortless effect on me.
Truly though, I fell head-over-heels for Isaiah from the very beginning. WHAT does Shiloh put in her book men that make them so irresistible?! Mercy 😍😩
The entire plot is so genuine feeling and nostalgic. Every little detail and thought put into Like Neon Mornings is one of a kind. Never could her writing ever be compared to anyone else’s because it’s entirely its own.
I desperately need more. I hope one day this story can grow and Shiloh blesses us with more of Isaiah and Luce!
Just as I expected. This book completely spellbound me.
I’m not surprised at all. Shiloh seems to have that effortless effect on me.
Truly though, I fell head-over-heels for Isaiah from the very beginning. WHAT does Shiloh put in her book men that make them so irresistible?! Mercy 😍😩
The entire plot is so genuine feeling and nostalgic. Every little detail and thought put into Like Neon Mornings is one of a kind. Never could her writing ever be compared to anyone else’s because it’s entirely its own.
I desperately need more. I hope one day this story can grow and Shiloh blesses us with more of Isaiah and Luce!
May 31, 2025
Goodreads' review prompt says "what did you think?" WHAT DID I THINK? I DON'T think I could ever put into words how Shiloh's writing makes me feel. Nor could I do the writing justice even if I could string something coherent together, especially after that ending. But what I can do is wholeheartedly recommend this book, and the rest of Shiloh's work because she has mastered her craft so brilliantly. You think you know what a heart-wrenching sentence looks like until you read one of Shiloh's and then you're staring at a wall for a bit. And this is what my last two brain cells can string together for what I thought lol
February 25, 2023
Oh how quickly I became engulfed in this 24 hour relationship between Luce and Isaiah. The writing in this book is magnetic and magical, hooks you from the first sentence and never lets go. I think their story exemplifies how fast you can be attracted to someone on a deeper than surface level, how sometimes the universe has people who are meant for you, whether it’s for a short time or forever. I would Love a full length follow up to this to see where they’ve ended up. Thank you to Booksirens for the opportunity to read this in advance.
July 13, 2025
Oh my god, this was so beautiful and painful and incredible.
A pregnant sex worker with a heart of gold and a busted car meets an ex-con with a heart of gold and a tragic backstory - a novella. They spend 24 hours trying to make money to fix her car. And it turns into one of the most amazing little love stories I've ever read. The writing is so fucking poetic and atmospheric. I dont't know how she does it, but Shiloh Sloane manages to fit a whole world into 100 pages with only a 24-hour plot, and I'm on the floor. Again. Every time with this author.
A pregnant sex worker with a heart of gold and a busted car meets an ex-con with a heart of gold and a tragic backstory - a novella. They spend 24 hours trying to make money to fix her car. And it turns into one of the most amazing little love stories I've ever read. The writing is so fucking poetic and atmospheric. I dont't know how she does it, but Shiloh Sloane manages to fit a whole world into 100 pages with only a 24-hour plot, and I'm on the floor. Again. Every time with this author.
April 10, 2025
Devastating. Beautiful. Tragic. Hopeful. Can‘t believe a 100 page novella packed an emotional punch like this. The writing style is GORGEOUS. Highly recommend.
January 29, 2023
This is an absolute literary masterpiece. I would change nothing about it, it's perfection. The two main characters were so human, so messy, and so full of life. There was something so holy about the book... Something raw and beautiful. I was completely stunned. I've never read anything like it. I was left in tears after reading it; wrecked in the best way. What a refreshing read. Maybe this doesn't give much insight to what the book is about, but it is something that everyone should read. This should be considered a classic. Amazing read. The author has once again outdone themselves.
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of the book in return for an honest review.
Maybe one day, when I've reread it several more times, I will articulate a better review. For now, I am simply in awe of a masterpiece.
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of the book in return for an honest review.
Maybe one day, when I've reread it several more times, I will articulate a better review. For now, I am simply in awe of a masterpiece.
February 21, 2024
I loved it.
I hated it
(Except that I didn’t).
Reading this was a religious experience.
I hated it
(Except that I didn’t).
Reading this was a religious experience.
February 21, 2023
I don't know how to explain how beautiful this novella was, heartbreaking too, and even if there is not a definite HEA, there is hope (crossing fingers for a whole book in the future).
Only 11 chapters (not enough :( , I want more, please and thank you!). It took me about two hours (more or less) in between doing housework. Every minute I spent it cheering for these characters, they are both somewhat troubled souls, a felon and a (pregnant) sex worker. One of them full of guilt and regrets, the other one trying to find herself.
I wholeheartedly recommend this novella once it comes out -Febraury 14th-. I mean, if you read the blurb you should already be tempted to pick it up next!
Disclaimer: Early copy/ARC for free provided by the author and BookSirens, thank you very much!
I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Only 11 chapters (not enough :( , I want more, please and thank you!). It took me about two hours (more or less) in between doing housework. Every minute I spent it cheering for these characters, they are both somewhat troubled souls, a felon and a (pregnant) sex worker. One of them full of guilt and regrets, the other one trying to find herself.
I wholeheartedly recommend this novella once it comes out -Febraury 14th-. I mean, if you read the blurb you should already be tempted to pick it up next!
Disclaimer: Early copy/ARC for free provided by the author and BookSirens, thank you very much!
I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to read
May 19, 2023The summary gave me instant Francesca Lea Block vibes for some reason 💗
January 26, 2024
Bee: I think Shiloh is now easily an auto-read author for me.
This novella isn't like any other novella I've read. Hell, it's plot isn't like any other regular novel I've read either. I'm usually not a fan of an insta-love situation but Luce and Isaiah truly deserved each other. They both found the beauty under all the ugliness that life can deal out and they had me rooting for them the entire time. I loved that the ending wasn't a conventional happy-ending. Man, what a story.
Nik: Whew!! As soon as I read the plot, I knew it was gonna be good. This tiny novella is packed with emotion, adventure and darkness. It has a feel unlike any other book l've ever read. It was gritty and felt like a fever dream, in the best possible way. What a wild ride. I didn't want it to end. I loved seeing the characters open up to each other and grow. My favorite part was the way she makes you feel as you're truly there, experiencing everything for yourself.
This novella isn't like any other novella I've read. Hell, it's plot isn't like any other regular novel I've read either. I'm usually not a fan of an insta-love situation but Luce and Isaiah truly deserved each other. They both found the beauty under all the ugliness that life can deal out and they had me rooting for them the entire time. I loved that the ending wasn't a conventional happy-ending. Man, what a story.
Nik: Whew!! As soon as I read the plot, I knew it was gonna be good. This tiny novella is packed with emotion, adventure and darkness. It has a feel unlike any other book l've ever read. It was gritty and felt like a fever dream, in the best possible way. What a wild ride. I didn't want it to end. I loved seeing the characters open up to each other and grow. My favorite part was the way she makes you feel as you're truly there, experiencing everything for yourself.
August 12, 2023
4/4.5 Stars
This was a very interesting Novella! I feel like Shiloh’s interpretations of art comes across so uniquely; some times I was able to be right there with her and understand the layered forms of her style. But, I admit that there were a few scenes that went completely over my head.
I thought this was such a cute “snippet” love story….I personally understood it as a story that one would classify as a valuable memory, that has been solidified and tucked into safekeeping. For the beholder to pull out and remember with reverence.
This was a very interesting Novella! I feel like Shiloh’s interpretations of art comes across so uniquely; some times I was able to be right there with her and understand the layered forms of her style. But, I admit that there were a few scenes that went completely over my head.
I thought this was such a cute “snippet” love story….I personally understood it as a story that one would classify as a valuable memory, that has been solidified and tucked into safekeeping. For the beholder to pull out and remember with reverence.
June 28, 2023
My Selling Pitch:
Do you like messy, bittersweet romances and gorgeous lyrical writing? Do you like your books to be all imagery and weighty topics? You're gonna love this.
Pre-reading:
I know nothing about this book, but it came across my Goodreads’ feed, and I saw the cover and immediately downloaded it. Didn't even read the blurb. Going in blind, baby.
Thick of it:
Omg, another book with a playlist! I love this trend. Oh you know it’s gonna be a good book when RKS is on the playlist.
Well shit, this is romantic. You son of a bitch, I’m in.
This book is so good.
I love them I love them I love them
This book is gonna break my heart ain’t it?
This book is gonna make me cry at work. (We made it through, but only barely.)
His god is sobbing-fuck me up, book. This is so good.
Post-reading:
I want more.
Honestly a very strong contender for book of the year.
If you told me a book with less than 100 pages could convince me in 24 hours to forgive someone who drove drunk and killed their baby I would've laughed at you.
An angry, sad girl must read. A character study must read.
Has some spicy religious commentary embedded in it too, and y'all know I'm always down for that.
Who should read this:
Angry, sad girls
character study fans
Do I want to reread this:
Yes.
Similar books:
* Corinne by Rebecca Morrow-bittersweet romance, religious commentary
* Dyscalculia by Camonghne Felix-bittersweet romance, mental health commentary
* Sam by Allegra Goodman-bittersweet romance, coming of age, character study
* I Love You But I’ve Chosen Darkness by Claire Vaye Watkins-character study about a mother who abandons her family
* Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley-woman tries to survive through prostitution
* In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado-bittersweet love story, character study
* Normal People by Sally Rooney-bittersweet romance, coming of age, character study
* Beautiful World Where Are You by Sally Rooney-flawed characters being awful to one another character study
* Fireworks Every Night by Beth Raymer-character study of a Florida girl who gets emotionally abused by her parents
* Social Engagement by Avery Carpenter Forrey-bittersweet romance, character study, girl blows up her life over romantic rejection
* Big Swiss by Jen Beagin-character study, love or obsession, messy girl book
* Games and Rituals by Catherine Heiny- angry sad girl short stories
* You Have a Friend in 10A by Maggie Shipstead-feminist short stories, character studies
* The Seaplane on Final Approach by Rebecca Rukeyser-sleazy character study
Unhinged Summary:
I don’t feel right satirizing this one.
Facing an unplanned pregnancy, Luce decides to move home to Miami. On the way, her car breaks down and she stops at a repair shop. The repair shop is held up at gunpoint, but Isaiah, who works as a juvie counselor, is able to talk the robber down. Despite the surreal situation, real life continues. Luce still needs to pay to have her car repaired. She doesn’t have the money. In the old days, Luce would’ve sold herself, but she’s trying to make better choices for her baby and maybe for herself too. Isaiah offers to pay for the repair even though he doesn’t have the money to spare. The two joke about trading cars. Luce turns him down. Isaiah offers to take her around in his car to earn the money. They flip furniture they find left out on the curb and then cater a party for his sister’s company. At the party, they run into Isaiah’s ex. It’s the first time that she’s seen him since he’s been released from jail. She can’t forgive him. He doesn’t ask her to. He can’t forgive himself. He drove home drunk from a party and got into a car accident. His son was in the backseat and didn’t survive. Luce and Isaiah leave the party and visit his son’s grave. They’ve been trying to ignore their attraction to each other all book. It’s almost impossible now. They visit an art installation. They’re trying to be better people. They’re trying to forget they only have the day together. They’re trying. Isaiah teaches her how to want for herself. Luce tells him not to punish himself forever. They want to be together. They should be together. They can’t, but at least they have the night. They’ve fundamentally changed each other for the better. In the morning, the repair shop calls. It doesn’t matter that Luce has the money. The shop was robbed again, and her car is destroyed. She and Isaiah trade cars, and she leaves for Miami a different person.
Do you like messy, bittersweet romances and gorgeous lyrical writing? Do you like your books to be all imagery and weighty topics? You're gonna love this.
Pre-reading:
I know nothing about this book, but it came across my Goodreads’ feed, and I saw the cover and immediately downloaded it. Didn't even read the blurb. Going in blind, baby.
Thick of it:
Omg, another book with a playlist! I love this trend. Oh you know it’s gonna be a good book when RKS is on the playlist.
Well shit, this is romantic. You son of a bitch, I’m in.
This book is so good.
I love them I love them I love them
This book is gonna break my heart ain’t it?
This book is gonna make me cry at work. (We made it through, but only barely.)
His god is sobbing-fuck me up, book. This is so good.
Post-reading:
I want more.
Honestly a very strong contender for book of the year.
If you told me a book with less than 100 pages could convince me in 24 hours to forgive someone who drove drunk and killed their baby I would've laughed at you.
An angry, sad girl must read. A character study must read.
Has some spicy religious commentary embedded in it too, and y'all know I'm always down for that.
Who should read this:
Angry, sad girls
character study fans
Do I want to reread this:
Yes.
Similar books:
* Corinne by Rebecca Morrow-bittersweet romance, religious commentary
* Dyscalculia by Camonghne Felix-bittersweet romance, mental health commentary
* Sam by Allegra Goodman-bittersweet romance, coming of age, character study
* I Love You But I’ve Chosen Darkness by Claire Vaye Watkins-character study about a mother who abandons her family
* Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley-woman tries to survive through prostitution
* In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado-bittersweet love story, character study
* Normal People by Sally Rooney-bittersweet romance, coming of age, character study
* Beautiful World Where Are You by Sally Rooney-flawed characters being awful to one another character study
* Fireworks Every Night by Beth Raymer-character study of a Florida girl who gets emotionally abused by her parents
* Social Engagement by Avery Carpenter Forrey-bittersweet romance, character study, girl blows up her life over romantic rejection
* Big Swiss by Jen Beagin-character study, love or obsession, messy girl book
* Games and Rituals by Catherine Heiny- angry sad girl short stories
* You Have a Friend in 10A by Maggie Shipstead-feminist short stories, character studies
* The Seaplane on Final Approach by Rebecca Rukeyser-sleazy character study
Unhinged Summary:
I don’t feel right satirizing this one.
Facing an unplanned pregnancy, Luce decides to move home to Miami. On the way, her car breaks down and she stops at a repair shop. The repair shop is held up at gunpoint, but Isaiah, who works as a juvie counselor, is able to talk the robber down. Despite the surreal situation, real life continues. Luce still needs to pay to have her car repaired. She doesn’t have the money. In the old days, Luce would’ve sold herself, but she’s trying to make better choices for her baby and maybe for herself too. Isaiah offers to pay for the repair even though he doesn’t have the money to spare. The two joke about trading cars. Luce turns him down. Isaiah offers to take her around in his car to earn the money. They flip furniture they find left out on the curb and then cater a party for his sister’s company. At the party, they run into Isaiah’s ex. It’s the first time that she’s seen him since he’s been released from jail. She can’t forgive him. He doesn’t ask her to. He can’t forgive himself. He drove home drunk from a party and got into a car accident. His son was in the backseat and didn’t survive. Luce and Isaiah leave the party and visit his son’s grave. They’ve been trying to ignore their attraction to each other all book. It’s almost impossible now. They visit an art installation. They’re trying to be better people. They’re trying to forget they only have the day together. They’re trying. Isaiah teaches her how to want for herself. Luce tells him not to punish himself forever. They want to be together. They should be together. They can’t, but at least they have the night. They’ve fundamentally changed each other for the better. In the morning, the repair shop calls. It doesn’t matter that Luce has the money. The shop was robbed again, and her car is destroyed. She and Isaiah trade cars, and she leaves for Miami a different person.
February 12, 2023
I’m currently sitting here at 12:15am reading this for the second time and sobbing for the second time. This book isn’t tragic in the way you typically think, but beautiful in a way that fate can be cruel except when you think about it, it was also kind.
This story follows two people, Luce and Isaiah who meet under fateful circumstance at a mechanic shop and spend a day/night together and fall in love. Unfortunately it is very much a “right person/wrong time situation” because neither of them are in a place to commit so permanently.
This story is so incredibly and unbelievably raw in its delivery that my heart ached for these characters. Isaiah has been carrying around immense guilt over an accident for the last twelve years and you can feel his anguish particularly in one scene. Luce has been a sex worker who recently found out she’s pregnant so she’s dealing with the circumstances of that along with unpacking some of the trauma that has come along with sex work. She has this painfully relatable moment where she can finally have sex because she WANTS to, not because she has to.
These two don’t end up together in your typical HEA ending but please don’t let that deter you from reading this. It is the most bittersweet ending and it makes sense for the couple at this time
QUOTES FROM THE BOOK:
‘and it’s him, like this, maybe the first time I can remember making love instead of fucking. Wanting sex because of the person, not the action, or being wanted, or needing rent money.’
“But the scent of Luce’s perfume mingled with rainwater and campfire smoke is intoxicating when it’s this close to me, and the sound of the rain in a truck is something holy”
This story follows two people, Luce and Isaiah who meet under fateful circumstance at a mechanic shop and spend a day/night together and fall in love. Unfortunately it is very much a “right person/wrong time situation” because neither of them are in a place to commit so permanently.
This story is so incredibly and unbelievably raw in its delivery that my heart ached for these characters. Isaiah has been carrying around immense guilt over an accident for the last twelve years and you can feel his anguish particularly in one scene. Luce has been a sex worker who recently found out she’s pregnant so she’s dealing with the circumstances of that along with unpacking some of the trauma that has come along with sex work. She has this painfully relatable moment where she can finally have sex because she WANTS to, not because she has to.
These two don’t end up together in your typical HEA ending but please don’t let that deter you from reading this. It is the most bittersweet ending and it makes sense for the couple at this time
QUOTES FROM THE BOOK:
‘and it’s him, like this, maybe the first time I can remember making love instead of fucking. Wanting sex because of the person, not the action, or being wanted, or needing rent money.’
“But the scent of Luce’s perfume mingled with rainwater and campfire smoke is intoxicating when it’s this close to me, and the sound of the rain in a truck is something holy”
April 6, 2023
I like to read books that extend my range of reading. At first I thought I had over-reached myself with "Like Neon Mornings". It seemed so foreign to my experience that I didn't know what to think, or to see if I could understand the reality underlying the story. And yet, the author quickly made me feel at home and I could understand the reality of Isaiah and Luce very well.
It is a short love story in every sense of those words. Isaiah and Luce meet by chance in Las Vegas. Luce's car has broken down while she is on the way from Long Beach to Florida and she has no money. The pair of them have different backgrounds and are looking at different futures but they soon understand each other very well. Earning enough money for fixing Luce's car seems too difficult, and yet was easily managed. But that really wasn't the end of the love story.
For me this was most enjoyable and highly recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is a short love story in every sense of those words. Isaiah and Luce meet by chance in Las Vegas. Luce's car has broken down while she is on the way from Long Beach to Florida and she has no money. The pair of them have different backgrounds and are looking at different futures but they soon understand each other very well. Earning enough money for fixing Luce's car seems too difficult, and yet was easily managed. But that really wasn't the end of the love story.
For me this was most enjoyable and highly recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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