“A Neon Darkness,” authored by Lauren Shippen, delves into the complex world of Robert Gorham, known by his alias Damien, who first appeared in Shippen’s prolific audio drama, “The Bright Sessions.” As the second installment in The Bright Sessions book series, this narrative takes a darker turn to examine the origins of one of its more enigmatic and morally ambiguous characters. The novel unfurls Damien’s journey, intoxicating in his power to influence desires, a thematic exploration of control and the desperate human need for connection and belonging.

Shippen’s portrayal of Damien is both intricate and unsettling. The strength of the character lies in his gray morality; his desires and methods blur the lines between villainy and vulnerability. Damien’s ability, to make others want what he wants, serves as both the central fulcrum of his external power and his internal conflicts. It’s a curse disguised as a celestial gift, offering unlimited power yet dragging him into an abyss of loneliness and detachment. This dichotomy is at the heart of Shippen’s exploration of Damien – his profound isolation juxtaposed with his manipulative charisma.

The inclusion of other “Unusuals,” individuals with extraordinary abilities, introduces a dynamic setting for examining themes of power dynamics, community, and identity. Shippen effectively crafts these characters with distinct voices and formidable powers, but it is Damien who stands out, compelling and sometimes repelling, as he grapples with his darker impulses. His interactions with these characters are tinted with the rawness of his needs and fears, making them poignant and sometimes chilling.

Shippen’s prose is lucid and evocative, adept at capturing the inner turmoil of her protagonist as well as the vibrant, sometimes eerie world of the Unusuals. Her narrative pacing ensures that readers are drawn deeply into Damien’s psychological and emotional vortex, almost to the point of complicity. One feels the weight of Damien’s cravings for acceptance and fear of his own destructive potential, making him a protagonist who both repels and fascinates.

The book’s exploration of control, both self-imposed and external, raises compelling moral questions that linger with the reader. Damien’s journey is not just about the struggle for power, but also about the implications of wielding it without restraint. Shippen does not shy away from depicting the consequences of Damien’s actions, providing a narrative that is both a character study and a cautionary tale about the seductive nature of unbridled power.

In conclusion, “A Neon Darkness” is a compelling addition to The Bright Sessions universe, providing a deep dive into one of its most troubled characters. Lauren Shippen manages to balance captivating storytelling with thoughtful examination of complex themes. This novel is an intricate, dark, and ultimately thought-provoking tale that will appeal to fans of character-driven narratives as well as those interested in the ethical dimensions of supernatural abilities.