By day, Jaseon McKnight Jr. is Milly Grove’s Medical Examiner, a respected doctor with access to the city’s darkest crime scenes. By night, he’s Slash, an elite killer known for his precision with a blade whose work never leaves traces or witnesses behind.
Until he does.
After a job, Slash realizes that someone saw him leaving the scene. Now he’s watching, stalking, and fighting the urge to finish a job while battling feelings of his own.
Will Slash tie up his loose ends? Or protect them at all costs?
Mind of a Maniac was wild!!! The twists and turns were astounding. Lowkey I didn’t have any issues with JJ, he had a mission and when he realized that he had caught feelings for Blossom, he pivoted. It was cute watching JJ fall in love 🥰 Who needs enemies with a brother like Rowan or an ex like TJ. My only issue with this book was it took Rowan and TJ too long to be eliminated! They caused so much chaos and I was getting antsy!
A chaotic slow burn. Is that a thing? If not it is now. They say history tends to repeat itself. Killa doesn’t fall too far from the tree. Like father like son. Chip off the old block And all the other cliches or whatever they said.
Ion know tho Jaseon Jr aka Slash 🔪might have rewritten history
JJ definitely lives up to his name! He’s set out to get rid of Blossom. But one look at her and her realizes he’s got other plans…
Told his daddy to watch this..Dr by day killa 🔪 by DNA! 🧬
Go ahead and tap into the mind of a maniac. But make sure you’ve read where it all started first!
4.5⭐️ The fact that this family could get crazier is crazy lol! I enjoyed this book so much. An unhinged slow burn with the sweetest and most eerie moments lol.
I might be a lil slow but I love this crazy s*** 😂 ain’t nothing wrong with a psycho loving you if he gone love you right. JJ was everything and everywhere Blossem needed him and I loved that for her. Grant it bay girl almost blocked her blessing trying to get buck and have morals but she got it together. Stacy was a great best friend and I love a good BF that’s gone ride through whatever. Everybody else was stupid and the plot plotted the way it should. It’s always a good time in the Nek Mills universe.
On the plus side, it was genuinely fun catching up with the Milly Grove crew. The family dynamics were still entertaining as hell, and there were definitely moments that had me laughing out loud. JJ came in strong too. Jaseon Jr. is clearly not wrapped tight and I mean that in the best way, because he brought the chaos and the comedy. The “I can’t compete where I don’t compare” line from his dad? Yeah, that was funny as hell.
But overall… the book was just okay for me.
My biggest issue is this: I really don’t like when a series brings back an original powerhouse character, just to make them feel less powerful in a newer book. Jayceon was the original maniac, and I didn’t love how JJ handled his father in this story. It took something away from the legacy and the presence Jayceon should still have.
And then there’s Blossom. Whew. That whole storyline was hella lame to me. The brother/fiancée situation felt dragged out, repetitive, and honestly exhausting. I understood her loyalty toward Rowan because that’s her brother, even after everything. But her concern for Tyreek? Nah. He did entirely too much for me to buy that energy. The storyline didn’t feel compelling, and it started to weigh the book down.
By the end, I found myself more interested in Karlie than anything else, and I really hope she gets her own story because there was way more potential there.
So yeah: I didn’t hate it, and I’m still invested in the world and the characters… but this one didn’t hit as hard as it could’ve. 3 stars for the laughs, the nostalgia, and JJ’s early momentum, even if the plot (especially Blossom’s) didn’t fully deliver.
The parallels between JJ and his father were all over the place. The man birthed himself twice. I noticed that JJ and Jamari appeared to be the most like him—JJ being..well…a maniac and Jamari having his unfiltered mouth. Jax seemed to be the chill twin with personality traits at that resembled BeBe. Hilarious to say the least. I really enjoyed the cat and mouse game with Blossom. Poor thing needed a bit of excitement with that awful man she was engaged too. Rowan was just as crazy though. Sir how you out here hating your sister that way. Whew. In the end everything worked out the way it should’ve. I loved the seeing how characters from other stories were weaved in too.
While JJ was indeed a maniac, I’m not sure if he was as crazy as his daddy in his prime. He gave me more silent stalker killer, while his daddy was more in your face and completely unhinged about EVERYTHING. Here’s what I’ll say though. I’m very intrigued by Karlie and what may or may not be happening with Marshall. Also, something’s telling me Jamir might have more of his daddy in him than he presents. It’s giving geeky maniac, but hey what do I know. Stacy was a great friend to Bloss, hopefully she finds her man but idk if he needs to be a McKnight.
This was sooooooo good. I love a good crashout unhinged MMC and JJ was no exception. This entry into the McKnight family saga was no different when it came to the laughs, drama, love, BDE, action, and bomb backstories. Blossom was beautiful, confident, successful, and sure as to who she was and what she wanted. She was surrounded by deceitful trifling folks but had the love of her bestie Stacy, her parents, and the infamous JJ. He was mysteriously sexy, bold, hardworking, and a certified maniac. He was willing to protect her by any means necessary from whomever or whatever posed a threat. I loved the story and watching him peel back layer by layer of himself , his intent, and feelings. The appearances of our favorite McKnight characters and seeing the siblings all grown up was an added bonus. An absolute 10/10. I hope we get another book from this loving but never playing with you family.
Back again and the kids are all grown up. When I say these kids still don't play behind they Mama, I cried laughing at every single interaction they had with their daddy about their momma. It was great catching up with the original Maniacs and their families. Dr. Jaseon McKnight Jr (JJ/Slash) is the Grim Reaper reimagined and I love it. But what happens when Dr. McKnight ends up falling head over heals for the person he is suppose to unalive? I'll tell you....pure unfiltered, unhinged, unexpected twists, turns, dips and trips. Hold onto you pearls this one is a wild unexpected ride! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
JJ is definitely a maniac. He is crazier than his father...even his dad had to give him the crown of crazy. He did not play about his Bloss Baby. Unhinged, certifiable, maniac, delusional, nutcase...you name it, that was Dr. Jaseon Jr McKnight!
Side note: The cashew comment was hilarious!
Can't wait to read about the other siblings and/or Marshall.
I love a good cameo and we got 2 of the Mills brothers and 2 of the Boudreauxs. I loved that for me. Jaseon Sr still don’t have an ounce of sense. JJ and Jax still double team Sr like they did as toddlers Lol… JJ is definitely a maniac but within reason. For his family, his love, and his side hustle Slash is ready to come out and play.
This was a great addition to the series. Loved Jaseon Jr. and Blossom's story. Interesting how everything came full circle and loved the how other characters were incorporated into this book. Don't want to give too much away but I do hope the other siblings get a story. I feel like the way this book was written left some doors open for them.
Yall are in for a time ! I loved Cuffed by a Certified Maniac and Loved by a Certified Maniac! So to have Jaseon Sr son story years later !!! 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨 yall are in for a time! If you are thought Jaseon Sr and Amir was unhinged just wait!
If a person is always brash, don’t expect any other reaction. When someone is always tell you that they going to give you the business, please believe them. When a man wants a woman, he’s going to so action more then words. Let’s chat
I was to say that JJ (Jaseon Jr) is worst that his father just more calculated and more patient. He too is also book bae🥰. Alright here we go - f everyone knew this man had no care and going do as he please, why did they keep trying this man🫣. TJ (Tyreek Jr) was his biggest thorn in his side. JJ was a family man but TJ was and never would have been considered family🤭. Now at first I didn’t think my guy could be a lover boy but I was so wrong cause at first site this man took claim of Blossom. The pressure and assurance this man was applying 🤭. This man handled any threat or issue Bloss Baby had and I loved every bit of it. He not only told her what it was, he showed it at all time. The way this man allowed her to make him a better man and she did it without knowing🥰. Though this man was a successful ME (medical examiner), his night job was not the average and if you was graced with his alter ego Slash, just know that nap would be forever. Let me say that I would never want to be face to face with Slash.
Tyreek Jr is just as raggedy as his father. He irritated me through the entire read🤨. This man just couldn’t let his estranged family The McKnight be and live in peace. They wasn’t even thinking or worries about him at all. One thing for sure, you keep poking a bear he’s going to respond. I think he has some type of complex or something. He definitely thought he was that 🥷🏽 but far from it. The way he did Bloss Baby had me wanting to get active🤭. How mad she moved on? He thought he was step ahead of everyone but really was many steps behind🤭. All I’ll say is, he asked for the boogeyman and got him. That karma was real.
Blossom aka Blossom Baby was that chick and pure 🥰. My girl was your typical Queen who just wanted love and be loved, spend time with her man and so much more to only get the opposite 😔. She irritated me too through the read cause how much evidence did you need to know that TJ was not it or the one. Like my girl was having many blonde moments (mean no disrespect)🤭. Now I will say that she was not ready for JJ. Who would’ve thought being in the wrong place at the wrong time would bring the man you can’t live without🤭. Then that vacation when it all changed, my girl wasn’t ready but when she got ready 🤏🏾🤏🏾. My girl wasn’t ready to be put deep into the mattress😜. I almost forget what she had to deal with and experience when it came to her brother Rowan. She didn’t deserve it and I’m so glad she has the man she has🤭
Oh I almost forgot that trifling brother Rowan and how he treated her. Let me just say, I want to catch a case 🤭. Cause it ain’t no way he did what he did and thought he was safe. Who in their right mind would do their sister the way he did. Like he really disliked Blossom. Overall, mental illness plays a big factor and his was overlooked by his father. That monkey on his back caused him more issue then he expected - JJ aka Slash. That payback was like no other - IYKYK 🫣.
This entire series had me in a chokehold in a dang good way. I didn’t think anyone could out do Jaseon Sr. but I was wrong🤭. These MMC were them🥷🏽. JJ is now one of my book baes. Now for some reason, I would love to know more about Jaxson. Ya boy was very comfortable making moves🤭. Ready for what’s next.
Chile, JJ is definitely 10x worse than his daddy and I loved every moment of it…
Blossom is the daughter of Milly Groves governor and she believes her happy ever after is within reach while dating TJ, an up and coming detective in the Grove. Little does she know TJ is not who he portrays himself to be and when she discovers his double life she stands on business to remove him from hers!
I loved that Nek wrote a very strong minded FMC, who valued herself in such a way that no matter your position in her life she decided when and how you would navigate in it.
JJ the sexy Medical Examiner by day and Slasher by night. Whew chile he was an unattached emotionless menace. Per usual he had his normal set of bird brains that didn’t understand they could never get more from him.
His attraction to Blossom put him on a path outside of his normal behavior, and everything he thought he was in control of slipped from his grasp easily.
His character development was really good overall, but it took him a while to get a grip on sanity. The antagonist in this book lasted entirely too long for me. I was so over TJ & Rowan.. the fact that they were still around and carried POV chapters all the way up to 80% was too much for me.. the side plots with the sister took away from time on page with Blossom and JJ and i found that the same words were repeated over and over when describing how he felt about the incident with his sister.
Overall this book gave more than just romance, it had thrills, mystery, graphic un-aliving and overall complex love. I truly enjoyed it.
Since I read the parents’ story last year, I came into this a little confused about who TJ was and how he was JJ’s cousin. But once everything clicked, it clicked.
And let me tell you — this story was a whole lot of crazy, and I love that for me.
JJ is absolutely his daddy’s son. I caught myself justifying some of his wild actions like I wouldn’t have been hauling ass in real life if I saw that kind of chaos unfolding. 🤣
Rowan’s situation, though, was frustrating in a different way. Everyone knew he had mental health struggles, and instead of actively helping him, they watched him spiral deeper into gambling, drugs, and alcohol. That kind of enabling was bound to lead to something bad. His issues didn’t excuse his actions at all, but it definitely felt like things could have been avoided if someone had stepped in sooner.
Blossom had a few moments where she annoyed me, but overall she was still a strong character and added a lot to the story.
It was also fun seeing characters from other books in the universe pop up throughout the story. I love when series do that because it makes the world feel connected.
Overall, this was an entertaining and chaotic ride. I’m really excited to see where the rest of this series goes and to find out who the rest of the kids end up with.
Welcome to the mind of a maniac! I really enjoyed JJ & Bloss baby and I truly loved seeing the characters from previous books. Seeing all of the kids grown & their personalities was definitely entertaining 🤣 I didn’t think anyone could get crazier than Jaseon, but JJ upped the score for sureee! That man set his sights on Bloss baby & popped up on her anywhere and everywhere. Blossom had such a good heart but mannn she needed to do Rowan & TJ dirty from jump! She gave them men too many chances to play in her face. & ever after all the shit they did, she still was attempting to give them the benefit of the doubt. I was glad when she finally let JJ do what he do best. She had to know that not only was he not goin let nobody ever play on his top, he also was going to protect her by any means necessary. Stacy was an amazing friend to Blossom & ngl I would love to see her get with one of them fine ass brothers 🙂↕️ Karlie definitely goin have something going on with Marshall soon 👀 I’m very intrigued by Jamir & would love to dive deeper into him. Uno, Wild, & Boko popping up was a pleasant surprise 🥰 All in all, this was a great hilarious read!
There were plenty of times that I had to clutch my pearls because JJ was straight up DERANGED. He was Mean. Rude. Arrogant and Unapologetic. And I really liked him🤣🥰Blossom aka “Bloss Baby” really didn’t stand a chance when it came to JJ. He went to great lengths to get her AND to protect her. Blossom and her “unnatural allegiance to losers” was blowing me a little bit throughout most of the book. Their physical chemistry was undeniable and towards the end we really got to see the softness and romantic side of them as a couple so I do wish we got to experience just a bit more of that. I’m also not sure if the series is continuing but I’d love to know more about JJ’s siblings Jamir and Karlie. I feel like they have a story to tell.
This was a good time. There was drama. Twists. And unexpected moments. While you technically could read this as a standalone, I definitely think you should at minimum read Cuffed By a Certified Maniac first to get context on the McKnight family and to truly appreciate the full circle moments.
Breonna and Jayseon are still a mess! 😂 Jayseon Jr aka Slash is no better! He is truly is father’s son. Shoot Jamie, Jamari and Jaxson are too. I’m surprised Karlie is still as sweet and giving. I was hoping her and Marshall got together. Anyone is better than Percy. JJ tripped me out with that Percy lol. It’s like history repeated itself. JJ took TJ’s woman unbeknownst to him. TJ is Tyreek’s son. He was his father’s son. I’m glad JJ did meet Blossom. She didn’t need TJ. It’s crazy how her own brother felt about her though. She loved Rowan but his demons had him despising her. I’m glad JJ didn’t take him out. That dark Boko made an appearance and helped with Row lol. It was good seeing Uno also. I laughed so much when Jayseon heard how JJ went to get his girl and was such a proud dad. He looked at him differently though after he saw how he did TJ. He said JJ was more of a maniac! I enjoyed this book so much!
Jaseon Sr. and Breonna’s kids are alright! While this story centers on Jaseon Jr. and his love, Blossom, you get to check in with all of the McKnight family throughout their story. JJ and Blossom have an interesting me cute and from there the story just gets crazy, dramatic, hilarious, romantic and Hella sexy. It’s really juicy and I don’t want to give away too many details but know that you are in for a time! JJ is definitely his father‘s son with a dash with his mama. Blossom holds her own and though she’s not as spicy as Ms. Breonna, she is perfect for JJ. The family is back in full effect and you will love reading about them again. There are also some other cameos from the Mills universe that you will enjoy as well.
I don’t know if Ms. Mills plans on a full second generation of maniacs but after this, I definitely can see the universe continuing. Enjoy!
Not Nek Mills reminding us AGAIN that her pen game is different 😮🔥
The way I already knew this was about to hit the moment she announced the McKnight Maniacs were coming back!!! The excitement was real, and this book absolutely delivered from beginning to end. Jaseon Jr. is truly his daddy son!!! This story delivered everything I love in a book: an unhinged MMC, a strong FMC who was loyal and loving (even when it wasn’t always deserved), supportive family, successful business owners, a little messy, delusional ex and glizzy gobblers, plenty of humor, love, and a beautifully executed happy ending.
On top of that, we were blessed with 500+ pages and cameos from some familiar Nek Mills favorites, which made the reading experience even better.
As always, this was a 10/10 for me. Nek Mills’ pen truly never misses.
Mind of a Maniac was so good — definitely the best book in the series! I hope we get stories about the kids next. Jaseon Jr. was a hoot to read, just like his dad: crazy as hell but standing ten toes behind his woman and his family. I also liked how it started with a smaller plot that built into something much bigger, and the multiple POVs all flowed together really nicely.
Blossom was a great character; I kinda wish she had been done with Tyreek a little earlier, but I was glad she didn’t go back to him. I loved the stalker plot with Jaseon — how it started as a clean-up from one of his night missions, then he found her interesting and started catching feelings. Overall, this was a great book and definitely my favorite out of the three.
So y'all been asking for yearning to be brought back in books huh!?
Who would've thought yearning and unhinged could be housed within the same MMC- not I.
How this author merged those two components was so impressive!
I love how this author pushed their pen and comfort zone while remaining true to their voice.
This book was nothing of what I expected but everything that I love.
The world building, the drama, the humor, the spice, the twists, the banter- there's not one thing I didn't like other than I want all the other children's stories now (but I'll patiently wait).
500+ pages but it didn't drag or feel stagnant.
Definitely recommend.
Although it could be read as a standalone because the pertinent information is given in this book- the first two books absolutely will give a greater appreciation of this story along with minor details referenced that will be missed without.
Jaseon “Slash” McKnight Jr.? Low volume. High impact. The type of man who says less and controls more. Moves smooth. Plans quieter. Still somehow owns every room he walks into. And yeah… he gets what he wants. Every. Time.
Blossom “Bloss Baby” Reid? Graceful. Secured. Untouchably HER. She doesn’t chase attention…it naturally finds her. Soft energy with steel underneath. Pretty and paid will always do it for me.
Now let’s talk about that tension… Calculated moves. Careful pressure. Timing so precise it felt personal.
Y’all trust me when I say: the chemistry sat heavy, the buildup was intentional, and that signature McKnight intensity? Alive and active. If you know, you KNOW.
I loved Jaseon Jr...that man is not wrapped tight at all! When his daddy said I can't compete where I don't compare, he wasn't lying 😂. I loved seeing the children grown up and the dynamics as well as the crazy parents. Where I got a little off was with Blossom. I understood her concern and love for Rowan because in the end, despite everything, that is her brother. What bothered me about Blossom, was her concern for Tyreek. That man did too much to garner her concern. I really got interested in Karlie and hope to see her story. All in all it was a good read and I hope to see the rest of them, especially Karlie.
This is how you END A SERIES!!!…This book was so dangerously good, funny and scary at the same time!!!… JJ and Bloss Baby was sooo completely opposite, but such a match!!!…She was the calm in his storm and he played no games about her!!!… I love the happiness and fun that was btwn the McKnight family and friends!!!… Stacy was definitely a welcoming addition and she played no games either!!!… The way JJ did Rowan had me walking away from the book, because that visual was stomach turning!!!…I wonder if he replay that day and how many times it would loop in your head!!!… Tyreek Jr was a nut on run and JJ did him dirty too!!!…
Jaseon Jr. and Blossom aren’t your typical love story.
By day, Jaseon Jr. aka Slash, is a deputy medical examiner but by night, he’s chaotic, wild, and convinced he doesn’t deserve love. Not until he meets Blossom, or as he calls her, Bloss Baby by accident.
Blossom has a thriving real estate career, but her heart craves something more. Despite knowing she should stay away from Jaseon Jr., she feels an irresistible pull toward him.
This story isn’t just about chaos and passion… it’s love at its wildest. And if you know the McKnights, you already know they don’t do anything calm.
One thing Nek gonna do is give us a delulu MMC and imma love it every single time! I’m not gonna hold you this book messed with my head in the best way possible….
This isn’t your typical story, but you know that if you read her other books 🤭 Every page feels dangerous. Every chapter pulls you deeper into a mind that’s been through hell and came back
If you’ve ever battled your own demons… If you’ve ever felt misunderstood… If you’ve ever turned pain into power…
When i first started reading this book, I almost put it down and walked away because it had a different vibe from the first two. I was like these kids are unhinged and all are crazy in the head. I'm so glad that I stuck with it. it was so good, I stayed up half the night to finishing. I couldn't put it down! This was my favorite of the 3. Honestly author the got to be a little touched to write a book like this but my crazy self will be reading more of her work. Guess that means Im a little touched myself! Definitely recommend this series.
Nek will never disappoint!!! I love the fact we got to get a glimpse of some of the old crew and see Sr is still a fool lol. JJ was nothing to play with and did not play about his Bloss Baby 🥹 I will never be one to spoil a book with a review, what I will say is you will be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t crack this one open . It gave Nek from beginning to the end ! Everyone got what they deserved in the craziest way 😉 WELCOME TO THE MIND OF A MANIAC 😝😝
First thing first chef’s kiss to the author. I love an unhinged doctor. This book was good from beginning to end. It jumped off exciting and kept going. I love the family dynamic in both families. I love how Blossom knew JJ was the man for her even though she had known Tyreek longer it just didn’t feel right. Rowan had so many chances to get it right and a family to support him but he couldn’t see it. Mental health is real and it’s good to see the author cover. I hope to see Jax & Marshall story in a book soon.