Like Neon Mornings by Shiloh Sloane

 

This book crossed my radar because the author's other book, THEN, EARTH SWALLOWED OCEAN was showing up as a suggested read for people who enjoyed my own work. LIKE NEON MORNINGS feels like one of those 2000s-era indie movies, specifically Away We Go. Luce and Isaiah are both in their 30s and are messy, imperfect people, but the focus of the book is on meaningful connections, and those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that can end up changing our whole lives.

Luce is an ex-prostitute and Isaiah is an ex-con. They meet at an autoshop in Las Vegas, and have the misfortune to be there during a stick-em-up. Stranded, and desperate, Isaiah offers to help her make the money she needs to fix up her car and get out of there. Lawfully, of course. I don't want to say too much because I don't want to spoil it, but the writing was gorgeous and I found myself wanting to highlight everything. Their characters were just so perfect, and this is proof that you can have two people fall in love in a day and not have it feel like instalove. I'm just so impressed by this author and her writing.

3.5 to 4 out of 5 stars