Us in the Bright Lights by Zanni L Arnot

Sometimes, you have to lose everything to find yourself. A swoony and moving novel about ending up in the most unexpected places, with the most unlikely people, and discovering it’s exactly where you’re meant to be.

Stevie Jones has always lived in the comfort of her best friend Bella‘s glorious shadow. But when Bella’s suddenly gone, her absence casts a harsh light on everything Stevie’s not. Who even is she without her best friend?

Unmoored, Stevie moves to Europe for a year in a desperate attempt to fulfill Bella’s bucket list. As she checks off Bella’s list, she begins to figure out who she is: the things she doesn’t like, and the things she does . . . which would all be terrific, if one of those things wasn’t way-off-limits Theodore, Bella’s long-time crush.

As her time overseas draws painfully to a close, Stevie must decide whether she wants to go back to her old life or stay in the big, bright light of the new world she’s building.

Us in the Bright Lights is a deeply romantic novel about a girl who loses everything, but finds herself in the process. Perfect for fans of Nina Kenwood and Biffy James.

About the Author: Zanni L. Arnot has published over forty trade books for kids under the moniker Zanni Louise, including bestselling board books, picture books, chapter books, and middle grade. A Guide to Falling off the Map is her first young adult novel. Zanni tours the world, visiting kids in schools and running writing retreats for grownups. She’s also a proud ambassador for Room to Read, an organisation that gives kids access to books. In her free time, you’ll likely find Zanni trail running in forests. Zanni lives with her family of four on the east coast of Australia. To find out more, visit www.zanniarnot.com.

28 Jul 2026

Us in the Bright Lights by Zanni L Arnot ISBN 9780734424501