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To Love a Psycho #1
Dream a Little Dream
His student. His obsession. His undoing.
"Maybe there’s something in two broken souls needing the same thing, at the same time, then searching for it in the same place.
Aaron Jones has survived by hiding behind walls of control and calculated indifference. He’s had to. As the son of two infamous serial killers, people either fear him, pity him, or crave to peel him open just to see what’s underneath. The last thing he needs is anyone digging into his past. Especially not a man who makes him want to surrender every defence.
Dr Kenneth Lyons. Criminal psychologist. Brilliant. Respected. Off-limits.
And the one man Aaron can’t seem to resist.
Kenny has always been drawn to the shadows of the human mind, but nothing is darker, or more tempting, than the new haunted student in his lecture hall. Aaron is beautiful, complicated, and utterly forbidden. Every rule says he should walk away. Every glance, every brush of contact, makes that impossible.
Desire twists into obsession. Boundaries shatter.
Every kiss is dangerous.
Every touch is a confession.
And every moment brings them closer to ruin.
But when a new killer surfaces on campus, mimicking the crimes of Aaron’s parents, their intoxicating entanglement turns deadly. Someone wants to resurrect the past. Someone wants to expose the truth. And if Kenny isn’t careful, giving into Aaron could cost him everything.
Dream a Little Dream (To Love a Psycho, Book 1)
is a dark MM romance of forbidden attraction, psychological obsession, and murder mystery suspense, for readers who crave steam tangled with danger, secrets, and a love that should never happen, but does.
Please see the author note for potential triggers.
"Maybe there’s something in two broken souls needing the same thing, at the same time, then searching for it in the same place.
Aaron Jones has survived by hiding behind walls of control and calculated indifference. He’s had to. As the son of two infamous serial killers, people either fear him, pity him, or crave to peel him open just to see what’s underneath. The last thing he needs is anyone digging into his past. Especially not a man who makes him want to surrender every defence.
Dr Kenneth Lyons. Criminal psychologist. Brilliant. Respected. Off-limits.
And the one man Aaron can’t seem to resist.
Kenny has always been drawn to the shadows of the human mind, but nothing is darker, or more tempting, than the new haunted student in his lecture hall. Aaron is beautiful, complicated, and utterly forbidden. Every rule says he should walk away. Every glance, every brush of contact, makes that impossible.
Desire twists into obsession. Boundaries shatter.
Every kiss is dangerous.
Every touch is a confession.
And every moment brings them closer to ruin.
But when a new killer surfaces on campus, mimicking the crimes of Aaron’s parents, their intoxicating entanglement turns deadly. Someone wants to resurrect the past. Someone wants to expose the truth. And if Kenny isn’t careful, giving into Aaron could cost him everything.
Dream a Little Dream (To Love a Psycho, Book 1)
is a dark MM romance of forbidden attraction, psychological obsession, and murder mystery suspense, for readers who crave steam tangled with danger, secrets, and a love that should never happen, but does.
Please see the author note for potential triggers.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2025
About the author
C.F. White
42 books314 followersC F White writes gritty, emotionally charged MM romance and romantic suspense, featuring complex characters, flawed heroes, dark secrets and men who fall hard when they least expect it. From dark, twisty thrillers to heartfelt contemporary romance, her stories are packed with passion, angst, found family and hard-won happy endings.
She lives in East London with her family, who have long since accepted that she spends more time talking to imaginary characters than to them.
She lives in East London with her family, who have long since accepted that she spends more time talking to imaginary characters than to them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
February 16, 2026
I'm annoyed at how much I enjoyed this. Mostly because it felt like 90% thriller and 10% romance. But that 10%? WHEWWWW.
Okay, as a big hater of student x professor pairings, I went into this half-hearted because I figured if I'm already biased against the pairing, how much could I possibly enjoy the story, right?
Wrong.
First off, the RESTRAINTTTTT.
That alone was enough to sell me on this. I've always felt like the pairing has a power imbalance you can't escape from. So the fact that Kenny(professor) drew the line firmly and stood on it? Worked for me.
Obviously I know I may live to regret this in the sequel. But at this point I would personally get Kenny's hands and place them on Aaron.
Because wdym you're telling him it can't be more but when he's falling apart he can get into your bed and you hold him all night?
WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY REITERATING AT ANOTHER POINT THAT FOR AS LONG AS HE'S YOUR STUDENT, IT CAN NEVER BE MORE, BUT THERE'S A GOODBYE KISS WHERE YOUR TONGUES TOUCH, EVEN IF IT DOESN'T DEVOLVE INTO MORE?!
How are you adding an extra layer of separation by not being his therapist but driving him to see the one you handpicked for him, every bloody week, and then one time, holding hands for part of the way there?
And poor Aaron thinks it's partly because of his pedigree. Asks him, 'If I weren't me, if I were just another twink you met on a night out, would it be different?'
Kenny goes, 'No. Because if you weren't you, I wouldn't even be interested in the first place.'
GUYS, HOW IS THIS A GOODBYE, LET'S NOT GET CARNAL SPEECH?
This sounds like the appetizer for getting carnal.
These are the mixed signals they talk about in Situationships 101.
Kenny was KILLING me and I don't know why Aaron doesn't just club him over the head caveman style and tie him up until he stops with the nonsense.
***I support Kenny's nonsense. I just hate every moment of the support.
Aaron's no better, though at least he's made it clear the situation is not an issue for him and if Kenny changes his mind, he's ready to go all in.
Man told him he can't let him in because if he does he might not ever let him go and he'd ruin him. And this MF TEENAGER goes....
"That is not a deterrent for me."
💀
You really have to be the adult with kids because they refuse to be it😂
Very bold about it, too. Goes on a violent bender after discovering Kenny went on a date and then tells him "You know how to make it stop."
Basically tells him 'I'm acting up because you're seeing other people'. As if THEY are dating.
Lololol and he quizzes him about the events of said dates like he's in charge😂
How are you asking your professor "Did you kiss her?" like it's your business in any way.
And Kenny acts all blasé about it but I know it secretly thrills him.
Because he gives vague answers that give room for misinterpretation. He likes that Aaron's feral for him, even if he won't admit it.
But also, I get it? Because do you really want to start a relationship with a 19 year you met in a bar very far away from where you teach specifically to reduce the odds of them being a student, have the most mutually explosive sexual encounter ever, only to then discover that they're a student in your first year class, possibly knew who you were at the time of the initial encounter, also happen to be the son of the most prolific serial killers you helped put away in your career AND are now a suspect in a murder that seems to follow their parents' MO?
That's a LOT of baggage, lol.
I liked when Kenny was all tangled up in thoughts of 'Do I not think Aaron's the murderer because it doesn't fit the profile I have of him or do I not want him to be a murderer because my deepest desire is to touch him in ways that can't be explained in polite company?'
So I get why Kenny's like this absolutely, on pain of death, can NOT happen.
But will still touch tongues with him as a goodbye.
Came for the romance, of which there was criminally little but plenty of yearning, stayed for the thriller-esque plot.
Unrelated. What exactly is Kenny packing and how is he putting it down because why is his ex from eons ago now engaged but still hurt at the idea of him with someone else?
Kenny, Kennyyyyy. If you're out there, we want to see. If you won't show us, then at least show Aaron.
I'm rooting so hard for that boy to wear that man down, you don't even know.
Okay, as a big hater of student x professor pairings, I went into this half-hearted because I figured if I'm already biased against the pairing, how much could I possibly enjoy the story, right?
Wrong.
First off, the RESTRAINTTTTT.
That alone was enough to sell me on this. I've always felt like the pairing has a power imbalance you can't escape from. So the fact that Kenny(professor) drew the line firmly and stood on it? Worked for me.
Obviously I know I may live to regret this in the sequel. But at this point I would personally get Kenny's hands and place them on Aaron.
Because wdym you're telling him it can't be more but when he's falling apart he can get into your bed and you hold him all night?
WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY REITERATING AT ANOTHER POINT THAT FOR AS LONG AS HE'S YOUR STUDENT, IT CAN NEVER BE MORE, BUT THERE'S A GOODBYE KISS WHERE YOUR TONGUES TOUCH, EVEN IF IT DOESN'T DEVOLVE INTO MORE?!
How are you adding an extra layer of separation by not being his therapist but driving him to see the one you handpicked for him, every bloody week, and then one time, holding hands for part of the way there?
And poor Aaron thinks it's partly because of his pedigree. Asks him, 'If I weren't me, if I were just another twink you met on a night out, would it be different?'
Kenny goes, 'No. Because if you weren't you, I wouldn't even be interested in the first place.'
GUYS, HOW IS THIS A GOODBYE, LET'S NOT GET CARNAL SPEECH?
This sounds like the appetizer for getting carnal.
These are the mixed signals they talk about in Situationships 101.
Kenny was KILLING me and I don't know why Aaron doesn't just club him over the head caveman style and tie him up until he stops with the nonsense.
***I support Kenny's nonsense. I just hate every moment of the support.
Aaron's no better, though at least he's made it clear the situation is not an issue for him and if Kenny changes his mind, he's ready to go all in.
Man told him he can't let him in because if he does he might not ever let him go and he'd ruin him. And this MF TEENAGER goes....
"That is not a deterrent for me."
💀
You really have to be the adult with kids because they refuse to be it😂
Very bold about it, too. Goes on a violent bender after discovering Kenny went on a date and then tells him "You know how to make it stop."
Basically tells him 'I'm acting up because you're seeing other people'. As if THEY are dating.
Lololol and he quizzes him about the events of said dates like he's in charge😂
How are you asking your professor "Did you kiss her?" like it's your business in any way.
And Kenny acts all blasé about it but I know it secretly thrills him.
Because he gives vague answers that give room for misinterpretation. He likes that Aaron's feral for him, even if he won't admit it.
But also, I get it? Because do you really want to start a relationship with a 19 year you met in a bar very far away from where you teach specifically to reduce the odds of them being a student, have the most mutually explosive sexual encounter ever, only to then discover that they're a student in your first year class, possibly knew who you were at the time of the initial encounter, also happen to be the son of the most prolific serial killers you helped put away in your career AND are now a suspect in a murder that seems to follow their parents' MO?
That's a LOT of baggage, lol.
I liked when Kenny was all tangled up in thoughts of 'Do I not think Aaron's the murderer because it doesn't fit the profile I have of him or do I not want him to be a murderer because my deepest desire is to touch him in ways that can't be explained in polite company?'
So I get why Kenny's like this absolutely, on pain of death, can NOT happen.
But will still touch tongues with him as a goodbye.
Came for the romance, of which there was criminally little but plenty of yearning, stayed for the thriller-esque plot.
Unrelated. What exactly is Kenny packing and how is he putting it down because why is his ex from eons ago now engaged but still hurt at the idea of him with someone else?
Kenny, Kennyyyyy. If you're out there, we want to see. If you won't show us, then at least show Aaron.
I'm rooting so hard for that boy to wear that man down, you don't even know.
February 6, 2025
4.5
Exactly what I love to read! I'm really into crime mysteries at the moment too and this one was definitely engaging.
Aaron broke my heart - the things he's endured because of who his parents are are devastating. I empathised with him so much, and the pain and rejection he feels from Kenny had me teary eyed.
Kenny is an interesting character who's facing a battle between ethics and desire, and honestly I feel like he's making stupid decisions but I can understand his reasoning.
Roisin is definitely a few sandwiches short of the whole picnic and I'm interested to see what role she plays in the series.
I'm so glad this is a trilogy though because I want to know more about Aaron and Kenny, and I need to see Aaron get his well deserved HEA. The tension between these two is so good and I can't wait to see it burst!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from CF White, and this is my honest review
Exactly what I love to read! I'm really into crime mysteries at the moment too and this one was definitely engaging.
Aaron broke my heart - the things he's endured because of who his parents are are devastating. I empathised with him so much, and the pain and rejection he feels from Kenny had me teary eyed.
Kenny is an interesting character who's facing a battle between ethics and desire, and honestly I feel like he's making stupid decisions but I can understand his reasoning.
Roisin is definitely a few sandwiches short of the whole picnic and I'm interested to see what role she plays in the series.
I'm so glad this is a trilogy though because I want to know more about Aaron and Kenny, and I need to see Aaron get his well deserved HEA. The tension between these two is so good and I can't wait to see it burst!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from CF White, and this is my honest review
November 3, 2026
Eeep! This was so good! A much-needed win after having to endure the disaster that was acosh
Anywayyyyyys
I really enjoyed this! Yay. This was such a spooky vibe which was such a great pick for this time of year. It’s based in the UK (West Midlands to be exact), where our MC, Aaron, now attends the University of Ryston as a criminal psychology major. So we got the dark academia vibes and a hot professor 😋 (That’s my shit)
I really liked both MCs. This is an age gap, professor x student, thriller murder vibe, slow burn. Oh and did I mention Aaron is the son of notorious serial killers? Eeeeek.
They do hookup as strangers in the like first chapter, but it doesn’t happen again. Nothing happens between them again in this book except for a kiss much later in the book. There isn’t any romance in this apart from the tension between them and obviously the forbidden nature of their relationship. The plot is the main focus. From what I’m used to with this author, attraction comes first and the build to their love story & emotional connection is more gradual throughout the rest of the books. And that’s clearly what is going to happen here as well.
My heart breaks for Aaron and all he’s had to go through. From a traumatizing & tumultuous upbringing, he still carries a jadedness & dark attitude with him. I really liked how Kenneth saw through him and they had this inevitable chemistry. Both of them were pretty compelling and I liked that they had distinct personalities.
I’m intrigued where the rest of this story will go and how their relationship will develop over the next few books. I always get nervous when there’s multiple books in a series like this because I hate when things drag or relationships don’t develop at the proper pace. However, it was done pretty well in her other series, so I have more faith!!
Regarding the plot, at a certain point I did predict the sort of “who done it” aspect of the story, but I still thought this was well done and entertaining. I didn’t know what to expect going in because I didn’t read the blurb, but I did know it was an age gap.
And last thing- I’m also coming to realize that one of my favorite things about this author is how well she researches the focus of the plot or aspects of the characters. In the previous trilogy I read by her (pretty poison), the law was heavily integrated into the plot and with this book, forensic/criminal psychology is the focus. In both, she really dives into it and doesn’t leave you sitting on the surface. When she gives a character an attribute or background, it’s actually well-developed. She doesn’t just tell us that Kenneth is a criminal psychologist and leaves it at that. This aspect of his character is integrated into the story through different interactions, dialogue, and situations that let us actually seeee him doing his job. His knowledge & education on criminal psychology feel like a genuine extension of who he is rather than it just being a superficial detail added to his characterization. I felt the exact same about Tristan’s character in Pretty Posion and how he demonstrated his expertise as a barrister.
I mean, White does mention that she did a lot of research for this book in her author’s note, but still I wanted to mention how much I appreciate it!
And yeah, maybe this is the bare minimum for novels, but I still don’t feel like it’s all that common for romance novels. Well, this is a romance thriller-but you get the point. I genuinely haven’t read many romance novels where the occupation of an MC is fully integrated into the characterization, the narrative, the dialogue, plot, etc etc. Characters are usually just assigned an attribute and it ends up being more like a skill set that we’re supposed to just accept as part of their personality. White does so much more imo! ☺️
She takes the time to establish what those occupations actually mean to the characters and how they manifest in their everyday lives and the plot itself.
Anywayyyyyys
I really enjoyed this! Yay. This was such a spooky vibe which was such a great pick for this time of year. It’s based in the UK (West Midlands to be exact), where our MC, Aaron, now attends the University of Ryston as a criminal psychology major. So we got the dark academia vibes and a hot professor 😋 (That’s my shit)
I really liked both MCs. This is an age gap, professor x student, thriller murder vibe, slow burn. Oh and did I mention Aaron is the son of notorious serial killers? Eeeeek.
They do hookup as strangers in the like first chapter, but it doesn’t happen again. Nothing happens between them again in this book except for a kiss much later in the book. There isn’t any romance in this apart from the tension between them and obviously the forbidden nature of their relationship. The plot is the main focus. From what I’m used to with this author, attraction comes first and the build to their love story & emotional connection is more gradual throughout the rest of the books. And that’s clearly what is going to happen here as well.
My heart breaks for Aaron and all he’s had to go through. From a traumatizing & tumultuous upbringing, he still carries a jadedness & dark attitude with him. I really liked how Kenneth saw through him and they had this inevitable chemistry. Both of them were pretty compelling and I liked that they had distinct personalities.
I’m intrigued where the rest of this story will go and how their relationship will develop over the next few books. I always get nervous when there’s multiple books in a series like this because I hate when things drag or relationships don’t develop at the proper pace. However, it was done pretty well in her other series, so I have more faith!!
Regarding the plot, at a certain point I did predict the sort of “who done it” aspect of the story, but I still thought this was well done and entertaining. I didn’t know what to expect going in because I didn’t read the blurb, but I did know it was an age gap.
And last thing- I’m also coming to realize that one of my favorite things about this author is how well she researches the focus of the plot or aspects of the characters. In the previous trilogy I read by her (pretty poison), the law was heavily integrated into the plot and with this book, forensic/criminal psychology is the focus. In both, she really dives into it and doesn’t leave you sitting on the surface. When she gives a character an attribute or background, it’s actually well-developed. She doesn’t just tell us that Kenneth is a criminal psychologist and leaves it at that. This aspect of his character is integrated into the story through different interactions, dialogue, and situations that let us actually seeee him doing his job. His knowledge & education on criminal psychology feel like a genuine extension of who he is rather than it just being a superficial detail added to his characterization. I felt the exact same about Tristan’s character in Pretty Posion and how he demonstrated his expertise as a barrister.
I mean, White does mention that she did a lot of research for this book in her author’s note, but still I wanted to mention how much I appreciate it!
And yeah, maybe this is the bare minimum for novels, but I still don’t feel like it’s all that common for romance novels. Well, this is a romance thriller-but you get the point. I genuinely haven’t read many romance novels where the occupation of an MC is fully integrated into the characterization, the narrative, the dialogue, plot, etc etc. Characters are usually just assigned an attribute and it ends up being more like a skill set that we’re supposed to just accept as part of their personality. White does so much more imo! ☺️
She takes the time to establish what those occupations actually mean to the characters and how they manifest in their everyday lives and the plot itself.
March 17, 2025
4.25**** stars
A student and a professor.
The son of a pair of serial killers and a criminal psychologist involved in their case and conviction ten years prior .
And now there is a new victim. A murder that resembles too much the parents’ MO. Only they couldn’t have done it. So who?
And although parts of the book were a bit longwinded and I had wished for the general pace to be faster I was fascinated and very much invested. In the overall plot, the characters, especially Aaron and also the murder mystery.
The romance between Kenny and Aaron was more of an afterthought in this first book in the trilogy but I honestly didn’t mind. It only added to the careful and reserved approach. And although there were sexual encounters, theirs is not a love story yet. They want it to be but at this point, it’s impossible.
Can’t wait for the sequel to release.
**************
To Love a Psycho Trilogy
Book 1 - Dream a Little Dream - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Kiss Me Honey Honey - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Killing Me Softly - currently reading
A student and a professor.
The son of a pair of serial killers and a criminal psychologist involved in their case and conviction ten years prior .
God, he was good at lying.
And now there is a new victim. A murder that resembles too much the parents’ MO. Only they couldn’t have done it. So who?
And although parts of the book were a bit longwinded and I had wished for the general pace to be faster I was fascinated and very much invested. In the overall plot, the characters, especially Aaron and also the murder mystery.
The romance between Kenny and Aaron was more of an afterthought in this first book in the trilogy but I honestly didn’t mind. It only added to the careful and reserved approach. And although there were sexual encounters, theirs is not a love story yet. They want it to be but at this point, it’s impossible.
“If you want me to help you heal, to get you through all this, and understand who you are, then I can’t blur those lines. Not with you.
Can’t wait for the sequel to release.
**************
To Love a Psycho Trilogy
Book 1 - Dream a Little Dream - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Kiss Me Honey Honey - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Killing Me Softly - currently reading
August 27, 2026
4.5 stars...
His throat tightened, breath catching. He clenched his fists, fingernails digging into his palms as the weight of it all bore down on him. He wanted to scream, to rage against the void where his childhood had once stood. But what good would it do? The house was gone, and so was the boy who had dreamed of heroes. In his place stood someone who knew not all stories had one.
And some villains didn’t even hide.
Yes... this was everything I wanted! It really delivered what was promised (by the blurb and that amazing cover 🤤) and I'm so excited to move on with the series. This was my first time with this author so I didn't know how it would hit, but it was a bulls-eye! 👍👍
His throat tightened, breath catching. He clenched his fists, fingernails digging into his palms as the weight of it all bore down on him. He wanted to scream, to rage against the void where his childhood had once stood. But what good would it do? The house was gone, and so was the boy who had dreamed of heroes. In his place stood someone who knew not all stories had one.
And some villains didn’t even hide.
Yes... this was everything I wanted! It really delivered what was promised (by the blurb and that amazing cover 🤤) and I'm so excited to move on with the series. This was my first time with this author so I didn't know how it would hit, but it was a bulls-eye! 👍👍
October 23, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Dream a Little Dream was an impressive and a bit disturbing Book 1 in a series that promises more excitement and murdery chills to come! Not a romance exactly, but the energy is there for these complicated MCs to go the distance. Rightfully, (assoc. prof) Kenny and (son of serial killers) Aaron's push and pull beginnings had me squirming. Most times these romances say they're forbidden and they're not, but there were some serious lines here that made me nervous, and I'm really glad there's a legit build-up to however these two will bridge that gap in the installments to come!
White's narrative style and tone, complex characters, and ofc the serial-killer creepy vibes made this story compulsively readable, and I absolutely cannot wait to dive right into the next! Great start to this crime drama romance, and looking forward to wherever White takes this series next in Kiss Me Honey Honey!
Dream a Little Dream was an impressive and a bit disturbing Book 1 in a series that promises more excitement and murdery chills to come! Not a romance exactly, but the energy is there for these complicated MCs to go the distance. Rightfully, (assoc. prof) Kenny and (son of serial killers) Aaron's push and pull beginnings had me squirming. Most times these romances say they're forbidden and they're not, but there were some serious lines here that made me nervous, and I'm really glad there's a legit build-up to however these two will bridge that gap in the installments to come!
White's narrative style and tone, complex characters, and ofc the serial-killer creepy vibes made this story compulsively readable, and I absolutely cannot wait to dive right into the next! Great start to this crime drama romance, and looking forward to wherever White takes this series next in Kiss Me Honey Honey!
Want to Read
March 8, 2025Pre-read:
You're telling me there's a MM psychological thriller with...I'm gonna assume age gap cause student/prof and I didn't know about it? This is theoretically something I'd really love.
You're telling me there's a MM psychological thriller with...I'm gonna assume age gap cause student/prof and I didn't know about it? This is theoretically something I'd really love.
August 31, 2026
It took me just half of a day to read this book bc I just couldn’t/wouldn’t put it down!! 🤯….Im literally lost for words on how much this book affected me and the hard grip it had on my heart and soul. Highly recommend!
And Daniel, you TOTALLY were correct on this one friend!! 🤩
And Daniel, you TOTALLY were correct on this one friend!! 🤩
January 2, 2026
4.5⭐️
Really good!
I didn’t realise there was more than one book, so I’m happy that the next one is available to read now. I hate waiting 😆
I listened to this on Audible, and I thought the narrator was perfect for Kenny but not so much for Aaron, so I think I’ll just read the rest.
There’s a real likeness to Fred and Rose West in this book. From their names to their crimes to the aftermath. Lots of little nods to their story. Having watched a fair few documentaries on these two, it made this story feel super real and interesting. It doesn’t focus heavily on their crimes but rather the aftermath.
The story between Kenny and Aaron was very intriguing. Lots of bad decisions and toxic moments, but the way it’s written just has you wanting more from them both.
Really good, and I’m looking forward to where this goes next.
………………………………………………………….
I got an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
Really good!
I didn’t realise there was more than one book, so I’m happy that the next one is available to read now. I hate waiting 😆
I listened to this on Audible, and I thought the narrator was perfect for Kenny but not so much for Aaron, so I think I’ll just read the rest.
There’s a real likeness to Fred and Rose West in this book. From their names to their crimes to the aftermath. Lots of little nods to their story. Having watched a fair few documentaries on these two, it made this story feel super real and interesting. It doesn’t focus heavily on their crimes but rather the aftermath.
The story between Kenny and Aaron was very intriguing. Lots of bad decisions and toxic moments, but the way it’s written just has you wanting more from them both.
Really good, and I’m looking forward to where this goes next.
………………………………………………………….
I got an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
September 1, 2026
This was interesting, but I feel like it could have been even better. It was quite easy to figure out who was behind it all, and I would’ve happily taken a little more suspense, a few more twists, and overall a bit more shock value, especially with a plot like this.
I did like the characters, though. They’re both compelling MMCs with distinct personalities, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing their relationship deepen and getting to know them better. I hope there’ll be more psychological elements in this.
But yeah, I wasn’t exactly glued to the pages just yet but it was good, though, and I’m definitely sticking around to see where this series goes.
I did like the characters, though. They’re both compelling MMCs with distinct personalities, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing their relationship deepen and getting to know them better. I hope there’ll be more psychological elements in this.
But yeah, I wasn’t exactly glued to the pages just yet but it was good, though, and I’m definitely sticking around to see where this series goes.
March 4, 2025
Well, that was an unique experience I had with this book. I started it not feeling that into it but then it kept getting better and better. Ultimately, I really liked it and I'm impressed at how much my opinion differs from the beginning. As a heads up: this book doesn't end in HEA/HFN for the couple as it is the start of a series and it is disclosed by the author at the beginning, but it isn't a bad ending either.
The story is about Aaron, a young guy who is interested in Kenny, an older man that turns out to be his professor at the university he's enrolled in. The mutual attraction is undeniable, but once Kenny discovers he is his student along with more things about Aaron's past, Kenny tries to draw a line. In the midst of everything, the body of a student from the campus is found dead and Kenny believes the killer is related to his sister's and Aaron's cases. The murderer might be on the hunt again.
I have to start by praising about how well the story delivered on the elements it intended, especially the forbidden attraction trope. The pull between the MCs is very present. I liked that it was Aaron pushing the buttons, playing with the power imbalance of their dynamic, and that the narrative was self-aware without it feeling obnoxious. There is the themes of mystery and crime as well, both keeping me at the edge of my seat.
Another thing to highlight was that the story introduced new themes organically and the change in perspectives actually helped to move it forward. The subplot about Rahul was upsetting, same as the one with the bully. The more the story advanced, the more Aaron's character turned out to have more depth besides the obsessive and feisty young guy going after his professor, it showed he is a person with values that fights agaisnt injustice and doesn't let assholes put him and others down. It shoved that he cared, he felt human, no matter what his nonchalant attitude wants to project as his mask.
At first, I felt more invested into those topics alone rather than the main relationship, but Kenny eventually won me over and I ended up believing in the relationship too. Kenny is a smart man that tries to be the responsible adult between both, but he's also an hypocrite and it was satisfying that the narrative called him out for not following his own preaching about honesty. Truth is, Kenny is a liar as much as Aaron, but in different ways: him lying about his attraction and lifestyle, while Aaron is lying about who he really is (inside and outside). This makes their dynamic interesting because both aren't exactly perfect, instead they make each other confront their secret demons.
Now onto the things that didn't entirely work for me:
-While this ultimately did happen, it took me some time to get used to the writting style. After the first few chapters, I felt that it flowed better and could finally get into the story.
-I wanted a bit more build up between MCs before their first meeting, because it felt a bit too much like instalust - a trope I'm not into. It wasn't until after the 30% where I actually felt they had chemistry, although I wished their dynamic wasn't only about attraction/obsession and there were some actual feelings involved too. I guess it'll be addressed later in the series.
-Kenny is supossed to be well versed in psychology but at one point he suggest Aaron to treat him and discover his repressed memories, which wouldn't work realistically speaking because of their closeness. As an expert, he should know that and even if he wants to, there was never a mention of this fact, as if he really believed he could "fix" Aaron. I guess that shows one of Kenny's flaws. I just prefer important facts not to be glossed over.
Ultimately, I thought the development between the couple felt natural, because sometimes it is taking two steps forward and one back. The ending was satisfying because things get wrapped up as best as possible and within the circumstances, it is fitting. I appreciated the good pacing and that the last pages set up a continuation. I really am hoping that book 2 has the dynamic reversed: Kenny being the chaser next time instead of Aaron. It is about time he's the one getting jealous, hoping Taylor can evoke that one him.
Overall, this was a really great start of a series. There are many great things introduced such as the psychological aspect, the complexity of the MCs (separately and in unison), a good murder mystery (a bit predictable but with a good pay off) and the intense push and pull between MCs made this work a solid book. Definitely looking forward to the upcoming ones.
-This was an ARC review.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: third person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
The story is about Aaron, a young guy who is interested in Kenny, an older man that turns out to be his professor at the university he's enrolled in. The mutual attraction is undeniable, but once Kenny discovers he is his student along with more things about Aaron's past, Kenny tries to draw a line. In the midst of everything, the body of a student from the campus is found dead and Kenny believes the killer is related to his sister's and Aaron's cases. The murderer might be on the hunt again.
I have to start by praising about how well the story delivered on the elements it intended, especially the forbidden attraction trope. The pull between the MCs is very present. I liked that it was Aaron pushing the buttons, playing with the power imbalance of their dynamic, and that the narrative was self-aware without it feeling obnoxious. There is the themes of mystery and crime as well, both keeping me at the edge of my seat.
Another thing to highlight was that the story introduced new themes organically and the change in perspectives actually helped to move it forward. The subplot about Rahul was upsetting, same as the one with the bully. The more the story advanced, the more Aaron's character turned out to have more depth besides the obsessive and feisty young guy going after his professor, it showed he is a person with values that fights agaisnt injustice and doesn't let assholes put him and others down. It shoved that he cared, he felt human, no matter what his nonchalant attitude wants to project as his mask.
At first, I felt more invested into those topics alone rather than the main relationship, but Kenny eventually won me over and I ended up believing in the relationship too. Kenny is a smart man that tries to be the responsible adult between both, but he's also an hypocrite and it was satisfying that the narrative called him out for not following his own preaching about honesty. Truth is, Kenny is a liar as much as Aaron, but in different ways: him lying about his attraction and lifestyle, while Aaron is lying about who he really is (inside and outside). This makes their dynamic interesting because both aren't exactly perfect, instead they make each other confront their secret demons.
Now onto the things that didn't entirely work for me:
-While this ultimately did happen, it took me some time to get used to the writting style. After the first few chapters, I felt that it flowed better and could finally get into the story.
-I wanted a bit more build up between MCs before their first meeting, because it felt a bit too much like instalust - a trope I'm not into. It wasn't until after the 30% where I actually felt they had chemistry, although I wished their dynamic wasn't only about attraction/obsession and there were some actual feelings involved too. I guess it'll be addressed later in the series.
-Kenny is supossed to be well versed in psychology but at one point he suggest Aaron to treat him and discover his repressed memories, which wouldn't work realistically speaking because of their closeness. As an expert, he should know that and even if he wants to, there was never a mention of this fact, as if he really believed he could "fix" Aaron. I guess that shows one of Kenny's flaws. I just prefer important facts not to be glossed over.
Ultimately, I thought the development between the couple felt natural, because sometimes it is taking two steps forward and one back. The ending was satisfying because things get wrapped up as best as possible and within the circumstances, it is fitting. I appreciated the good pacing and that the last pages set up a continuation. I really am hoping that book 2 has the dynamic reversed: Kenny being the chaser next time instead of Aaron. It is about time he's the one getting jealous, hoping Taylor can evoke that one him.
Overall, this was a really great start of a series. There are many great things introduced such as the psychological aspect, the complexity of the MCs (separately and in unison), a good murder mystery (a bit predictable but with a good pay off) and the intense push and pull between MCs made this work a solid book. Definitely looking forward to the upcoming ones.
-This was an ARC review.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: third person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
March 16, 2026
So captivating you’ll forget to blink, sleep, and hold on to your sanity (that last part is your fault, Kenny). And yet it’s merely the beginning. And I’m so fucking ready.
February 5, 2025
Wow! I’m blown away by this gripping, dark, twisted, and intense psychological thriller. C.F. White is a master of suspense, and she brings her A-game with this new series. This is the true crime/serial killer x MM romance mashup you didn’t know you needed!
There are a lot of different kinds of relationships to unpack in this one - familial, romantic, platonic, and toxic - but let’s talk about the romance. It’s not a HEA or even a HFN…YET. In fact, both of the MCs spend most of this book dating other people despite their insanity-inducing level of chemistry. I’m not even sure this qualifies as a full-on romance, although it’s definitely building toward it, including some really hot, very intense encounters between Aaron & Kenny.
C.F. White has been upfront & honest about this being a series romance arc, and she’s definitely making us work for it. Their connection is undeniable, electric, end game kind of material - we know it and they know it - just buzzing between them waiting to combust. Unfortunately, their timing is terrible - think serial killers getting the way and all the cards stacked against them kinds of terrible. But I don’t know if I’ve ever shipped a couple harder or loved a character more for having the strength to walk away.
Every facet of this story brings that cold, chilling edge you'd expect from a psychological thriller. I haven’t been this alert and captivated by a story in quite some time; some of it's just the abject horror, deviance, & depravity necessary to carry out such cold, calculated crimes, but it’s also the slow, methodical way the story unfolds and secrets are revealed. Revelation after revelation will have you reeling and wondering where it could possibly end. Everything and everyone in this story is connected, so my advice is to buckle up and pay attention! It’s a wild ride. I can’t wait for more, and I’m pretty sure I’ll never look at roses the same way again.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
There are a lot of different kinds of relationships to unpack in this one - familial, romantic, platonic, and toxic - but let’s talk about the romance. It’s not a HEA or even a HFN…YET. In fact, both of the MCs spend most of this book dating other people despite their insanity-inducing level of chemistry. I’m not even sure this qualifies as a full-on romance, although it’s definitely building toward it, including some really hot, very intense encounters between Aaron & Kenny.
C.F. White has been upfront & honest about this being a series romance arc, and she’s definitely making us work for it. Their connection is undeniable, electric, end game kind of material - we know it and they know it - just buzzing between them waiting to combust. Unfortunately, their timing is terrible - think serial killers getting the way and all the cards stacked against them kinds of terrible. But I don’t know if I’ve ever shipped a couple harder or loved a character more for having the strength to walk away.
Every facet of this story brings that cold, chilling edge you'd expect from a psychological thriller. I haven’t been this alert and captivated by a story in quite some time; some of it's just the abject horror, deviance, & depravity necessary to carry out such cold, calculated crimes, but it’s also the slow, methodical way the story unfolds and secrets are revealed. Revelation after revelation will have you reeling and wondering where it could possibly end. Everything and everyone in this story is connected, so my advice is to buckle up and pay attention! It’s a wild ride. I can’t wait for more, and I’m pretty sure I’ll never look at roses the same way again.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
March 24, 2025
I am absolutely blown away. I am finding it hard to find words to describe how much I loved this book, it is utterly engrossing. This author has a captivatingly unique voice and the way the layers of suspense and reveals are built is genius. That prologue sent a deluge of questions through my mind and I was instantly hooked, unable to put it down but also self aware enough that I knew I didn’t want to rush through it. Parts of this book literally sent chills down my spine, there are Spectacular games of cat and mouse playing out, mind games where each word is a move on a live high stakes chess board.
Aaron and Kenny add their layers of the romantic plot development with a touch of forbidden age gap and student professor dynamic and with a fascinating push and pull, the author taking all the time to describe their compulsions and their obsession with each other.
Characters, their back stories, their motivations are fully fleshed out and presented in a most impactful way, inexorably pulling you in with language that is sublimely immersive. And that ending, more questions seeded into my brain and I need to read more, what happens next.
Book 2 is coming out later this month so highly recommend starting this series soon.
Expect:
* Suspense
* Dark academia
* Forbidden Student Professor
* Touch starved
* Hurt comfort
* Age gap
* Morally grey
* Psychological thriller
* Found family
* Slow burn
* Not an HEA yet
Aaron and Kenny add their layers of the romantic plot development with a touch of forbidden age gap and student professor dynamic and with a fascinating push and pull, the author taking all the time to describe their compulsions and their obsession with each other.
Characters, their back stories, their motivations are fully fleshed out and presented in a most impactful way, inexorably pulling you in with language that is sublimely immersive. And that ending, more questions seeded into my brain and I need to read more, what happens next.
Book 2 is coming out later this month so highly recommend starting this series soon.
Expect:
* Suspense
* Dark academia
* Forbidden Student Professor
* Touch starved
* Hurt comfort
* Age gap
* Morally grey
* Psychological thriller
* Found family
* Slow burn
* Not an HEA yet
February 27, 2025
ARC review
I loved this book so much.
It's a first in a trilogy and I'm already dying for the rest.
Aaron had been through a lot in his short life and the only thing he wants is to someone to love him and understand him. He went through so much because of who his parents were and it wasn't fair.
Kenny helped arrest Aaron's parents and it's a case that haunts him.
These two shouldn't and can't be together for various reasons but it's not easy to ignore a connection like theirs.
I loved this book so much.
It's a first in a trilogy and I'm already dying for the rest.
Aaron had been through a lot in his short life and the only thing he wants is to someone to love him and understand him. He went through so much because of who his parents were and it wasn't fair.
Kenny helped arrest Aaron's parents and it's a case that haunts him.
These two shouldn't and can't be together for various reasons but it's not easy to ignore a connection like theirs.
February 20, 2026
Excellent book with, to quote Evelyn (go find her review for this book - I couldn’t have said it better), “criminally little” romance but I’m desperate to continue with Aaron and Kenny so off I go. I am loving this author!
PS don’t miss the Dream Bonus Chapter from Book Funnel called Cruel Summer. There’s a brief conversation that physically made my heart ache for a moment 💔
PS don’t miss the Dream Bonus Chapter from Book Funnel called Cruel Summer. There’s a brief conversation that physically made my heart ache for a moment 💔
May 8, 2026
Incredible
Obsessed
This was incredible
Stunning writing
Loved the thriller mystery vibes
Kenny and Aaron are everything
Wow
I flew through this fiening for the 2nd book and more of their story
This actually made me excited to read
The plot, the mystery, secrets, angst, tension between those two
Just wow
Stunning
Obsessed
This was incredible
Stunning writing
Loved the thriller mystery vibes
Kenny and Aaron are everything
Wow
I flew through this fiening for the 2nd book and more of their story
This actually made me excited to read
The plot, the mystery, secrets, angst, tension between those two
Just wow
Stunning
December 24, 2025
5⭐️ audiobook narration
4.5⭐️ story
I just recently listened to my first ever CF White book (All Wrapped Up) in which Aaron was a side character and I was so intrigued by his character & very excited to find out he has his own whole series!
*I received an ALC copy of this audiobook, all opinions are my own*
It’s been a really long time since I read a proper book series, where the romance is told across all the books and I really enjoyed this one! Yes we don’t get a ton of “spicy scenes” with our MCs together but the tension is palpable!
Plus so much else is going on plot-wise, I didn’t feel like anything was missing because I was fully invested in solving the crime mystery of the book. Which is what makes this imo more a crime book with romantic elements, but I know in the next books their relationship will continue to develop. I can’t wait for the next book to be available on audio!
4.5⭐️ story
I just recently listened to my first ever CF White book (All Wrapped Up) in which Aaron was a side character and I was so intrigued by his character & very excited to find out he has his own whole series!
*I received an ALC copy of this audiobook, all opinions are my own*
It’s been a really long time since I read a proper book series, where the romance is told across all the books and I really enjoyed this one! Yes we don’t get a ton of “spicy scenes” with our MCs together but the tension is palpable!
Plus so much else is going on plot-wise, I didn’t feel like anything was missing because I was fully invested in solving the crime mystery of the book. Which is what makes this imo more a crime book with romantic elements, but I know in the next books their relationship will continue to develop. I can’t wait for the next book to be available on audio!
October 13, 2026
Aaron + Kenny
-mm romantic thriller
-student x professor
-son of serial unalivers x criminal psychologist
-forbidden attraction
-mutual obsession
-murder mystery
-age gap
like…just everything about this whole as relationship dynamic is already so much intrigue…but then add in the plot? & ALL THE TWISTS?? like homies been in basically witness protection for a decade cause he’s the child of serial killers…& for years he stalked the psychologist who profiled his parents…who also happened to date the cop that found & saved him as a boy when they were caught…& he ends up fucking him at a club one night & turns up the next day AS HIS STUDENT?? oh yeah!! this is a hella good time!!
-mm romantic thriller
-student x professor
-son of serial unalivers x criminal psychologist
-forbidden attraction
-mutual obsession
-murder mystery
-age gap
like…just everything about this whole as relationship dynamic is already so much intrigue…but then add in the plot? & ALL THE TWISTS?? like homies been in basically witness protection for a decade cause he’s the child of serial killers…& for years he stalked the psychologist who profiled his parents…who also happened to date the cop that found & saved him as a boy when they were caught…& he ends up fucking him at a club one night & turns up the next day AS HIS STUDENT?? oh yeah!! this is a hella good time!!
Read
October 27, 2025dnf 23%
hooookkaayyy apparently cleaning out my KU shelves is just not going well for me.
the premise sounded awesome but the writing is meh? and it feels like the author keeps forgetting their own plan? one moment the MC knows who Kenny is before showing up in his class the next he...doesn't? one sec he seeks him out to establish that connection in the club and the next...he didn't know he'd end up in his class? yet five minutes later we again are told he signed up for the class to get close to Kenny?
pick a lane, won't ya? 🤷♀️
hooookkaayyy apparently cleaning out my KU shelves is just not going well for me.
the premise sounded awesome but the writing is meh? and it feels like the author keeps forgetting their own plan? one moment the MC knows who Kenny is before showing up in his class the next he...doesn't? one sec he seeks him out to establish that connection in the club and the next...he didn't know he'd end up in his class? yet five minutes later we again are told he signed up for the class to get close to Kenny?
pick a lane, won't ya? 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2025
Loved this one. Had my heart pounding from page one till the very end.
April 4, 2025
Where’s the Romance?
I DNF’d this book. I read up to the 55% mark (page 200 for me) and I just couldn’t continue. In the initial author blurb, they mention that this is essentially a romance, but I don’t see it at all. For the entirety of what I’ve read so far, Kenny is pining for his ex, or he’s reliving memories of their past (sometimes explicitly), or he’s with his current love interest Heather. There’s sexual tension between him and Aaron (the other MC), but nothing else. So, I have to ask having read more than half the book, where is the romance or even the chemistry between the two MC’s? It’s non-existent up to this point, and I don’t want to waste more time trying to chase it.
The plot itself is interesting. There’s a murder that connects the MCs pasts together that keeps the reader on edge. I like it, but not enough to keep me interested.
The writing style is geared more towards UK readers. I didn’t understand a lot of the slang and there were times when sentences were unfinished or just stopped and it made me question if it’s a UK thing, or if the story needed an editor? Not sure. It made the reading feel disjointed at times. Overall, not a book for me.
I DNF’d this book. I read up to the 55% mark (page 200 for me) and I just couldn’t continue. In the initial author blurb, they mention that this is essentially a romance, but I don’t see it at all. For the entirety of what I’ve read so far, Kenny is pining for his ex, or he’s reliving memories of their past (sometimes explicitly), or he’s with his current love interest Heather. There’s sexual tension between him and Aaron (the other MC), but nothing else. So, I have to ask having read more than half the book, where is the romance or even the chemistry between the two MC’s? It’s non-existent up to this point, and I don’t want to waste more time trying to chase it.
The plot itself is interesting. There’s a murder that connects the MCs pasts together that keeps the reader on edge. I like it, but not enough to keep me interested.
The writing style is geared more towards UK readers. I didn’t understand a lot of the slang and there were times when sentences were unfinished or just stopped and it made me question if it’s a UK thing, or if the story needed an editor? Not sure. It made the reading feel disjointed at times. Overall, not a book for me.
July 12, 2026
4.5 stars
February 21, 2025
Let me take a moment to breathe because WOW this book ATE.
I love books that deal with psychopaths, psychology and all that goodness and I haven't found the book that ticked all my boxes the way this one had. It has you in a chokehold and every second spent reading lures you deeper and deeper into the world crafted by the author. I just love it so much.
Aaron is kinda a cross between a psycho and an empathetic cutie pie. His snarky attitude, witty remarks and avoidance of things are a shield to hide his true self. His little obessession with his professor, Kenny, and later his craving for him break his walls a lot faster that a water ballon hitting the ground. His character is something that needs to be studied, for sure. I also love how much attention he needs and someone to dominate him but not just anyone. No, my boy needs Kenny's firm guidance.
Kenny is such a wholesome character. I love when he goes on his little psychological rants which Aaron loves. His position and age and career and all other outside factors prevent him from truly embracing his need for Aaron. The craving. The obsession. I actually loved seeing him slowly becoming obsessed with Aaron and how that obsession built up throughout the story.
All in all this was a book that had me staying up 'til the next day because of how good it was. It was well balanced. There wasn't anything lacking in my opinion and the twists and turns? They had my heart beating erratically.
Expect dark romance, age gap, mutual obsessed MCs, games of cat and mouse, steamy encounters, unhinged twink, cute precious scenes that really soothe the soul and a lot more crazy shenanigans.
//ARC Review//
I love books that deal with psychopaths, psychology and all that goodness and I haven't found the book that ticked all my boxes the way this one had. It has you in a chokehold and every second spent reading lures you deeper and deeper into the world crafted by the author. I just love it so much.
Aaron is kinda a cross between a psycho and an empathetic cutie pie. His snarky attitude, witty remarks and avoidance of things are a shield to hide his true self. His little obessession with his professor, Kenny, and later his craving for him break his walls a lot faster that a water ballon hitting the ground. His character is something that needs to be studied, for sure. I also love how much attention he needs and someone to dominate him but not just anyone. No, my boy needs Kenny's firm guidance.
Kenny is such a wholesome character. I love when he goes on his little psychological rants which Aaron loves. His position and age and career and all other outside factors prevent him from truly embracing his need for Aaron. The craving. The obsession. I actually loved seeing him slowly becoming obsessed with Aaron and how that obsession built up throughout the story.
All in all this was a book that had me staying up 'til the next day because of how good it was. It was well balanced. There wasn't anything lacking in my opinion and the twists and turns? They had my heart beating erratically.
Expect dark romance, age gap, mutual obsessed MCs, games of cat and mouse, steamy encounters, unhinged twink, cute precious scenes that really soothe the soul and a lot more crazy shenanigans.
//ARC Review//
March 10, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This is a great start to a new series by CF White and I really liked the set up and the characters. We first see Aaron as a young boy being removed from his home as his parents are being arrested for a series of murders. We then move forward to Aaron starting college and his life in between has been one of trauma, assault, and violence. It’s a tragedy what happens to him as he’s put into care and doesn’t get any help. He was forbidden to use the internet and he was unable to search out any information on his parents until he was 16. He’s now seeking out Kenny because he knows that Kenny was involved in his parents’ case and the two of them have a connection that runs deep. Neither one of them expected the red hot, obsessive attraction between them.
The mystery here was not difficult to solve, as the killer was easily seen in plain sight, but the overall story of it illuminates Aaron’s past a little more. This series is a trilogy and with Aaron’s mother an on-page character from prison, it will be a twisted path of discovery of where this will go. The match has already been lit on the chemistry between Aaron and Kenny, but it will be a long road to get them together as they valiantly fight the inevitable.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This is a great start to a new series by CF White and I really liked the set up and the characters. We first see Aaron as a young boy being removed from his home as his parents are being arrested for a series of murders. We then move forward to Aaron starting college and his life in between has been one of trauma, assault, and violence. It’s a tragedy what happens to him as he’s put into care and doesn’t get any help. He was forbidden to use the internet and he was unable to search out any information on his parents until he was 16. He’s now seeking out Kenny because he knows that Kenny was involved in his parents’ case and the two of them have a connection that runs deep. Neither one of them expected the red hot, obsessive attraction between them.
The mystery here was not difficult to solve, as the killer was easily seen in plain sight, but the overall story of it illuminates Aaron’s past a little more. This series is a trilogy and with Aaron’s mother an on-page character from prison, it will be a twisted path of discovery of where this will go. The match has already been lit on the chemistry between Aaron and Kenny, but it will be a long road to get them together as they valiantly fight the inevitable.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
February 19, 2026
Crazy readable. Almost broke my work night rule and stayed up past midnight but finished at 11:55.
Are there some highly problematic dynamics that made me cringe? 💯! Do I also greatly dislike the casual use of word psycho in the series name as well as the cover which makes this book seem more like a conventional MM romance than it really is? You betcha! Am I totally going to start reading the next in the series during breaks at work? Oh absolutely. Is the tension between the two MCs and the writing top notch? Yes and yes.
An aside: very curious about how people in forensic psychology look at people and personality disorders as opposed to the rest of us. Seems like a fundamentally different orientation, but maybe that’s just fiction being fictional.
Are there some highly problematic dynamics that made me cringe? 💯! Do I also greatly dislike the casual use of word psycho in the series name as well as the cover which makes this book seem more like a conventional MM romance than it really is? You betcha! Am I totally going to start reading the next in the series during breaks at work? Oh absolutely. Is the tension between the two MCs and the writing top notch? Yes and yes.
An aside: very curious about how people in forensic psychology look at people and personality disorders as opposed to the rest of us. Seems like a fundamentally different orientation, but maybe that’s just fiction being fictional.
August 9, 2026
I bought this book on recommendation from the author at a signing event. I told her what I like she said this would hit the mark, she was not wrong.
I genuinely couldn't put this book down, I should be asleep right now as I need to get up soon for work, but just one more chapter became just finish the book. So I did.
Aaron is such a complex character and I adore him, he has such a hard uncaring shell but it's hiding a damaged boy and I just love that he is starting to let himself heal.
Kenny .. I love him .. but dude come on! You can help Aaron and be with him at the same time right? Right?!?!
I love their dynamic and I can't wait to see it grow more in book two.
I found this a really original premise and I'm sold on C F White as a great author.
I genuinely couldn't put this book down, I should be asleep right now as I need to get up soon for work, but just one more chapter became just finish the book. So I did.
Aaron is such a complex character and I adore him, he has such a hard uncaring shell but it's hiding a damaged boy and I just love that he is starting to let himself heal.
Kenny .. I love him .. but dude come on! You can help Aaron and be with him at the same time right? Right?!?!
I love their dynamic and I can't wait to see it grow more in book two.
I found this a really original premise and I'm sold on C F White as a great author.
March 4, 2025
I really wanted to give this book 4 stars because honestly the ending didn’t do the rest of the book justice. It felt simple predictable and flats compared to the rest of the book and the emotions i felt until then! But that just wouldn’t be fair to the rest of the book because my whole reading experience - until the last hundred pages, was OMG 5 ⭐️ read….
Soooo because this is the first book in a series and this is my first read of this author I am going to give it five stars but be very strict on my rating of the second book!
Soooo because this is the first book in a series and this is my first read of this author I am going to give it five stars but be very strict on my rating of the second book!
March 23, 2025
Dream a Little Dream is the first book in the To Love a Psycho series. This is the story of Aaron who's parents were infamous serial killers and Kenny (Dr Kenneth Lyons) his professor a renowned criminal psychologist. I love dark books about crime mysteries. I loved this story so much, it kept me at the edge of my seat. I felt so bad for Aaron and all he has gone through because of who his parents are. I wanted to yell at Kenny because of some of the decisions he makes through the story. I did want more of the romance between the guys but understand that this is just the first book in the trilogy. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
May 7, 2025
Wow! Just wow!
Definitely not the romance I anticipated. Ignore the cover. This book floored me. It was so much more intense than I expected. I don’t have the brain power to say this gracefully, so pardon my bluntness. There wasn’t much in the way of hot and heavy scenes. I think this was strategic. I don’t feel bored or even bereft. ‘Edged’ is my best descriptor. I am curious about what comes next.
Definitely not the romance I anticipated. Ignore the cover. This book floored me. It was so much more intense than I expected. I don’t have the brain power to say this gracefully, so pardon my bluntness. There wasn’t much in the way of hot and heavy scenes. I think this was strategic. I don’t feel bored or even bereft. ‘Edged’ is my best descriptor. I am curious about what comes next.
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