Finding Joy Under the Neon Lights: A Review of Under the Neon Lights by N. J. Vinson
There’s something undeniably magical about discovering a book that speaks to your soul, especially when it arrives serendipitously, as happened with Under the Neon Lights. Many thanks to NetGalley for recommending this delightful YA novel to me! I’ve never read an ARC before, so I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity when I dove into N. J. Vinson’s world of skating, fleeting friendships, and young love.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of a skating community, this story centers on the captivating character of Jaelyn, who is unusually relatable for a 16-year-old. Unlike many protagonists who feel more like adults, Jaelyn embodies the raw emotions, hopes, and fears of her age. Her journey alongside her best friend Noe and her relationship with Trey is not just engaging but profoundly realistic. I found myself nodding in recognition at her inner struggles and the heartbreak of transitioning friendships—something that I think anyone can resonate with, regardless of age.
The relationship between Jaelyn and Trey is one of the novel’s standout elements. I was instantly drawn in by their dynamic, which navigates the complexities of adolescent love with incredible nuance. Their moments are not glossed over; Vinson honors the awkwardness, the misunderstandings, and the thrill of first love. I appreciated how authentically they argued, learned to trust each other, and experienced those charmingly awkward moments that made my own teenage years so memorable. It’s rare to find a YA romance that feels this genuine, and I was here for every moment!
One aspect I have to note is that the book is styled as poetry. Honestly, it took me a bit to adjust; I hadn’t realized this until I started reading! While the poetic format offers beautiful imagery and introspective lines, I found myself struggling to connect with it fully, which is why I ultimately rated it 4 stars instead of 5. Lines like:
“Even when the rink is gone,
we have to keep this going,
‘cause I don’t plan on failing you.”
hold such emotional weight, yet sometimes the lyrical quality overshadowed the narrative flow for me.
That said, the quotes contained within this book are a pure joy! They capture not just brief moments, but entire emotions, echoing the ups and downs of teenage life, love, and self-discovery. My personal favorite has to be:
“They can snatch our neighbourhood,
steal our livelihood,
but they can never
take us away from
each other.”
This line beautifully encapsulates the spirit of resilience that runs through the novel, resonating deeply with me.
In conclusion, Under the Neon Lights is a heartwarming, relatable tale that captures the spirit of youth and the fight for joy, despite life’s challenges. If you’re looking for a touching YA romance mixed with a vibrant exploration of community and self-identity, this book is definitely for you. It left me feeling inspired and hopeful, reminding me of the joy in the small, everyday moments that make life truly beautiful.
Mark your calendars for June 3, 2025, when this gem is set to be published. I can’t wait for others to experience Jaelyn’s world and the warmth of her journey!
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