In today’s episode, we are diving deep into the dark, chaotic, and unexpectedly hilarious world of Navessa Allen's massive viral hit, Lights Out. It's a book that asks the ultimate "what if" question: What happens when you accidentally manifest your favorite internet stalker kink?

We break down the morally grey chemistry, the heavy trauma both characters carry, the line between internet fantasy and reality, and why a literal serial killer's son might actually be the ultimate "cinnamon roll" book boyfriend. Plus, we talk about Fred—the real star of the book.

Content Warning:

This episode contains deep-dive discussions of dark romance themes, including cyberstalking, breaking and entering, and explicit BDSM/kink. The plot also deals heavily with the psychological trauma of being the child of a serial killer, graphic descriptions of emergency room medical trauma, grief over the loss of a parent, and a secondary plot involving non-consensual stalking, violence, and graphic body disposal. Listener discretion is strongly advised if you are sensitive to themes of stalking or violent trauma.

Music:

https://uppbeat.io/t/albert-behar/forbidden-desire

License code: NI6EC2P4IWFH367C

When the "Zoo Man" was finally caught, the legal battle that followed became even more bizarre than the crimes themselves. Thomas Huskey’s defense claimed he wasn't responsible for the murders; instead, they pointed the finger at "Kyle," a violent, British-accented alter ego who allegedly emerged during the killings. Join us as we examine the controversial use of Dissociative Identity Disorder in the courtroom, the validity of "Kyle," and how a series of legal technicalities allowed a suspected serial killer to escape the death penalty—even after a confession

Content Warning:

This episode covers a highly disturbing case file out of Knoxville, Tennessee. The discussion of Thomas Huskey includes graphic depictions of predatory behavior targeting sex workers, severe sexual sadism, and the post-mortem concealment of victims. The episode also touches on complex and controversial legal testimonies regarding severe trauma and Dissociative Identity Disorder. Listener discretion is advised.

Music from:

https://uppbeat.io/t/oliver-massa/graveyard-tango

License code: 6CU5MIMVDNS2IMAJ

To her neighbors in Sacramento, California, Dorothea Puente was a sweet, grandmotherly figure. She wore floral dresses, baked homemade cookies, and ran a boarding house for the unhoused, elderly, and the mentally ill. She was looked at as a neighborhood saint - until the stench of death began wafting from her immaculate rose garden. This week, we dive into the chilling story of one of America’s most deceptive female serial killers.

Content Warning:

This episode discusses themes of elder abuse, the exploitation of vulnerable adults, poisoning, and human decomposition. It may not be suitable for all audiences, so listener discretion is advised.

Music:

https://uppbeat.io/t/oliver-massa/graveyard-tango

License code: 6CU5MIMVDNS2IMAJ