It's Witchcraft

Criminal Intentions #5

by Cole McCade

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

An eerie ritualistic murder sends Malcolm and Seong-Jae down a bizarre path of the occult to find a killer--but when it comes to witchcraft, the suspect's not the only one casting a spell. With Seong-Jae haunting his dreams, Malcolm is practically bewitched, his trust in Seong-Jae growing deeper and deeper as both men learn to rely on each other.

But when the murder triggers memories from both Seong-Jae's and Malcolm's shadowed pasts, will the secrets they share bring them closer...or drive them further apart?

Genres: M M Romance, Mystery, Romance, Crime, Contemporary, LGBT, Mystery Thriller

205 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 10, 2018

About the author

Slender. Angry. (Part) Asian.

Yeah, that about sums me up.

Hi. I’m Cole. Xen. Whatever you want to call me; both are true, and both are lies. My pen names are multitudes, my nicknames legion. Tall, bi/queer, introverted author of a brown-ish persuasion made up of various flavors of Black, Asian, and Native American. I’m cuter than Hello Kitty, more bitter than the blackest coffee, and able to trip over cats in a single half-asleep lurch; I’m what happens when a Broody Antihero and a Manic Pixie Dream Boy fight to the death, and someone builds a person from the scraps left behind. Beardless, I look like the uke in every yaoi manga in existence; bearded or not, I sound like Barry White. About half my time is spent as a corporate writer, and the other half riding a train of WTFery that sometimes results in a finished book. Romance, erotica, sci-fi, horror, paranormal; LGBTQIA and cishet; diverse settings and diverse characters from a diverse author.

Sometimes I shout about things on the internet. Usually intersectional feminism and marginalized voices, and whomever’s punching down in those directions today. Sometimes human sociology, the psychology of sex and gender, and my own gender non-conforming arse (he/him, by the way). Sometimes I get really mad at Stephen Hawking and nerd out all over the place about hairy black holes, and believe it or not, that’s not a terrible pun or even worse innuendo.

That’s it. I’m a huge dork. My humor’s so dry it could empty oceans. I’m a native Southerner from the New Orleans area with zero Southern accent; I’m a mess of multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-lingual influences; I have two cats. I wake up at daft hours of the morning to go running. I crochet terrible, lumpy things that never really turn into anything. I’m older than you think I look. I’m much more shy than my fury makes me sound (signifying gods only know what, but probably nothing). Recently I decided, at 36, that I needed to restart my life and move cross-country, so I tossed 75% of my possessions in the trash and randomly trucked it to Seattle. I’m in love with books and music and technology, and they war with each other for dominance and sometimes come together in a beautiful confluence. Most of the physical books I own are strange, obscure, out of print, overseas imports, or any combination of the four. Most of the physical books I used to own were destroyed in Hurricane Katrina, and have been replaced with the infinite library on my Nook. My wallet has a dangerous attraction to anything with pages; it flirts and teases and gives its all, until there’s nothing left but emptiness and ruin.

There will always be things you don’t know, and I won’t tell.

But ask me late at night over live music in a seedy bar, and you might just get an honest answer.

...or you can poke me via:

* Email: blackmagic@blackmagicblues.com
* Twitter: @thisblackmagic
* Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/xen.cole
* Website & Blog: http://www.blackmagicblues.com
* Tumblr: http://thisblackmagic.tumblr.com/

And there's my Xen Sanders SFF / Horror profile:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Reviews

[Shile (Hazard's Version) on-hiatus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread - December 2021

My poor tiny little peanut heart. GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!!

This is still sooooooo good.

***********************************************
Oh Dear Lawd what have I gotten myself into? GAAAAAH!!!



And i thought book 4 had the feels. This was worse..

I now sound like a broken record but..... The UST! THE FREAKING UST is killing me! And i am eating that shit up.



-Sade, Jason, Anjulie, Gabi! just GAAAAAAHHH!

Then there is Mal and Seong-Jae... The touches, the conversations...GAAAAAHHH!



“I’m looking for my cat.” That lyrical British accent mocked, and he turned, almost pirouetting, arms flung out and making slashes in the drizzling rainfall before he spun to a stop. “Don’t suppose you’ve seen him? He’s all black.”

[lila · Rating 4 out of 5]

— 4.5 stars ☆

❝I will never expect you to put my life above the life and well-being of someone you love, Malcolm.❞ Dark eyes held his with such promise, such painful and quiet understanding. ❝No matter what your sense of duty expects.❞
Don't you know that right now...
You're the one I'd give up life and limb for?
You're the one I'd put above anyone and everyone else?
But ❝I know you wouldn't,❞ was all he said aloud. ❝That's why I trust you with everything.❞

i absolutely ADORE how honest Seong-Jae and Malcolm were with each other in this one 🥺🥰

also, Huang + Sade?? Anjulie + Gabi? 🤭 so many theories lol.

***

the way i'm unable to resist my next hit of them is... annoying, to say the least, when i have such good books on my currently reading 😭 just can't help it tho <33

[Han · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 WE-ARE-FINALLY-GETTING-SOMEWHERE-WITH-THESE-TWO-DUMMIES Stars

Thoughts:

*Slow clap* Wishes do come true because the communication of my dreams between them is finally happening! They are still keeping secrets from each other, but that’s to work on at another time lol.

What we get:
-Jealousy/Pining
-C.H.E.M.I.S.T.R.Y
-Shirtless SJ
-A hot-gym-fighting scene
-Growth and development
-A SPEECH (THIS SCENE!)
-”He’s mine.”
-Introduction to new potential ships
-And as always Mal&SJ being their dumb adorable selves

I don’t have much else to say other than that this was my favorite of them so far. Also that the queer inclusion/positivity and diversity in these is stellar!!

The tension is about to break officially in the next one, and I’ll be pulling up in the front row for the show! I cannot wait!

Would I recommend this and to who:
Crime junkies and slow burn romance lovers
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
E-book - Another thanks to KU! xoxo
How did I discover this:
Lila - My girl has got me hooked!
Pace:
Fast
POV:
Multi - Malcolm and Seong-Jae primarily

Quotes:
‘And if someone tried to hurt Seong-Jae, Malcolm wasn’t wholly sure he could trust himself not to do something he’d regret.’

“You know me better than that. I’m on your side, Seong-Jae. Period. I’ve got your back.”

“Tell me I’m not the only one feeling this.” He searched those unreadable eyes, looking for…for…anything. “I can’t get you out of me, and it’s fucking up my head.”

‘Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again.‘

“No touching. He’s mine.”

Triggers:
Death, Murder, Graphic Horrific Details, Swearing, Sexual Content, Injury, Gore, Toxic Relationships, etc.

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, well, as much as I'm not about big ego's and dick swinging competitions...

HOLY FUCK SEONGJAE SWINGING HIS DICK AROUND WHEN HE'S ANGRY AND JEALOUS?????????????
GETTING PUNCHY?
GETTING MURDEROUS??
GETTING UP IN PEOPLES FACES???
BEING A BLUNT AF BITCH TO ALL WHO CROSS HIM????
🥵🐀🥵🐀🥵🐀🥵





Also, there is finally some sort of character/relationship development in this book FINALLY. (Maybe just sprinkles 😉 IYKYK)

AND YES, they still say next to ✨nothing✨ but that is so ✨Malcolm and Seongjae-Coded✨ at this point, that I wouldn't expect anything less. hahahah. They use sarcasm, and short sentences to kind of say everything with minimal words BUT MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY??????



THE ENDING HAS LEFT ME HUNGRYYYYYYYY 🍽️


(Yes, I forgave malcolm. I'm back on my 5 stars for them BS.. I'M A WEAK ASS HOE OKAY?. I KNOW. BUT MAL GOING THROUGH SOME SHIT AND I WAS FUCKING FROTHING WHEN SEONGJAE GOT STABBY FOR IT. If this book had no step towards something for seong/mal, I would have been over it, I needed a bit more than one crumb this time. I would survive on two crumb only, and I got 2 crumb so I am happy.)

[Simone - on indefinite hiatus - · Rating 5 out of 5]

***4.5 Stars***

The emptiness that we confess
In the dimmest hour of day
In the common town they make a sound
Like the low sad moan of prey
The bitter taste the hidden face
Of the lost forgotten child
The darkest need the slowest speed
The debt unreconciled
...
The awful cost of all we lost
As we looked the other way
We've paid the price of this cruel device
Till we've nothing left to pay
~ The Angry River

As for me, this song fits to the whole season, but it pretty much sums this episode up to a T. In several aspects.

Boy, this was powerful and intense! In every friggin' way... Calling the case Mal and Seong-Jae are dealing with this time 'gruesome' would put it mildly. The gory details in all their sickening glory shine a light on the depravity of human nature, which makes it feel so much the more alarmingly real. Even thinking about what our more and more twisted society is capable of, makes me sick to my stomach.

But even if this episode combines several threads to the story arc in general and gave me some answers to certain suspicions, it is the steadily deepening emotion between Mal and Seong-Jae that is in the focus here. The sparks that fly between them (gahhhh, I'm still thinking about this kickboxing scene!!!!!) would put every fireworks to shame and we are still in the build-up phase of their relationship. I can't even begin to imagine the lush intensity when they are finally together. Seing these complicated men talk and open up to each other felt almost magical and gave me goosebumps all over. Because they not only talked, they pretty much bared parts of their soul by revealing a bit of their past and themselves. Of feelings. And that's far from being all...

Wordless, Seong-Jae held him, his embrace so warm, so comforting, long fingers threading through Malcolm's hair in soothing strokes. He said so much through touch, more than most managed with the longest speeches, and that touch right now promised safety, promised forgiveness, promised kindness, promised acceptance.
Whatever Malcolm's crimes of the past...
Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae's arms, he finally felt whole again.

There is a captivating beauty to the author's writing style that makes everything all the more emphatic, haunting and vibrant. I can see each and every detail as clear as crystal in my mind's eye and that only intensifies my feelings about the characters and the stories in general. Another big plus for me is the diversity Cole McCade brings to life with his characters, so on a very personal note: there are not nearly enough characters from the ace spectrum in gay romance in my opinion, therefore I have to thank the author for giving me some variety here and someone I can identify with to some extent.

And on another more selfish note: could I please have some kind of HEA for Sade and Huang? I don't care how or when, but pretty please??????

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best so far!

In this episode, Cole McCade has officially got me wrapped around his finger.

I want to take a moment to set aside the brilliance of Malcolm and Seong-Jae, the MCs, and gush about the supporting characters I'm slowly falling in love with.




Every time I turn a page and read:

✔ "Anjulie Zarate Y Salazar couldn't remember the last time she'd slept through a sunrise..."

✔ "It felt strange, to Gabrielle, to step back into life in Baltimore as if she'd never left..."

✔ "When Jason Huang returned home, Sade was waiting for him...."

✔ "Sometimes, in the quiet emptiness of the office after midnight, Sade thought the only time they could truly be themself was in this space... "

I feel something bubbling in the pit of my stomach—something building dangerously, 💣🎆🎇 making me nervous and excited all at once for what's coming their way.

Oh, the thirst to know more! Goddammit, evil authors!!!

I can't remember the last time I was so impressed by the strength of the supporting characters in a story. They are fleshed out imperfectly perfect! And they have it all: bones, flesh, heart, and soul. As I said before, they are not there just for the sake of it. I am amazed by how deep they are under my skin already. As Lisa, my friend, said, the author is very stingy with reveals 🤨😤 and yet I am terribly invested!

✳✳✳✳Gushing over.😬😬😬


Back to the MCs, I'm just leaving two quotes:



C'mon, guys!!!



And last but not least, mind the mystery, 😱😬



Because it was horrendous.

[Lau ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“People do crazy things when they are in love.”

Seong-Jae arched a brow. “You quoted that from a Disney film.”

“And you recognized it.”


I think at this point of the series every word I say about the plot it’s going to be at least a small spoiler. I wouldn’t have wanted to know when they finally open to each other, or kiss or get together because it spoils the slow burn. So I’ll just say there is a steamy scene of them fighting in the gym that it’s a new favourite. I didn’t know fighting could be sexy until Cole McCade happened!!

For those who read the book:

SPOILER
I am the only one who didn’t expect Seong-Jae to be asexual? I loved it though, I haven’t read any asexual main character before and I’m super curious about how it’s going to affect their relationships!

[Youssra (semi ia) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Malcom and Seong-Jae: Yearning final bosses.

plot was fun, but read lots of similar plotlines. Interested in the underlying plot though!


3.75 stars!

I still hate the voice the narrator chose for Malcom pls he makes him sound like an 80 year old smoker 😭😭

[Drusilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

These guys break my heart into so many thousand pieces every time. They talk to each other, oh my goodness. Not about everything of course, but oh my, so much progress. And how I cried.

“Tell me I’m not the only one feeling this.” He searched those unreadable eyes, looking for…for…anything. “I can’t get you out of me, and it’s fucking up my head.” 💔💔💔

Wordless, Seong-Jae held him, his embrace so warm, so comforting, long fingers threading through Malcolm’s hair in soothing strokes. He said so much through touch, more than most managed with the longest speeches, and that touch right now promised safety, promised forgiveness, promised kindness, promised acceptance. Whatever Malcolm’s crimes of the past… Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again. 😭😭😭

That was so good. I'm so overwhelmed I don't know what to read next. It's a bit like this story has left me in shock. The best book so far. I have to savor this a bit.

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 3 out of 5]

⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*A Little Better*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱

This one was a step up. Definitely. We finally got on a more personal level. We get to see the two main character rely on each other more. And I like that the main focus isn't JUST the detective case. I have a hunch about who the nameless person is, so we'll just wait and see if I'm right or not. Overall, it was better than the others. That said, it wasn't great, I still want more it more personal, but at least we're getting somewhere, finally. It was little bit more enjoyable. Also, is it just me or did I just read three books in one row? I need to sleep now.



The Characters:
The list is a bit long so I've put it in a spoilers tag.

→ Malcolm ‘Mal’ Ibrahim Khalaji (43), Baltimore Police Department homicide Sergeant Detective. Has worked with the BPD for nearly fifteen years. Malcolm used to be a "university professor at U of M. Criminal psych. Army before that, just to pay for college. GI bill landed him in Afghanistan for a full tour right at the start of the war". Only child. Used to be on narcotics, until he became a detective.
→ Seong-Jae Yoon (33), transfered from LAPD to BPD: homicide Lieutenant Detective. Malcolm's new partner, who outranks Malcolm. He's been on the force for eleven years, between LAPD and other institutions. Used to be FBI: Behavioral Analysis Unit before LAPD. Has a younger sister; still in high school who lives in L.A.. His Western given name is Scott, which he hasn't used since high school; hates the name. Is asexual: Seong-Jae's last boyfriend described him as ‘gay gray-ace with demi sprinkles.’
→ Anjulie Zarate y Salazar, Captain of BPD.
→ Cara Stenson, a forensics. Her husband, Rowan, is a florist.
→ Sade Marcus, they’re (uses they/them pronouns) the resident computer geek. Half their officers can barely send a coherent email. Sade keeps them from infecting half the BPD network with malware, and does a little information sniffing when they need it. Is Huang's lover.
→ Gabrielle Leon-Khalaji, Malcolm's ex-wife. They divorced a few years ago. She's a lawyer: public defender mostly now, but she used to work some pretty high-profile fed cases. She and Anjulie went to law school together. They’ve been friends for a long time and she was the one who introduced Gabrielle to Mal. Her parents a rich rich.
→ Dr. Karen Ryusaki, the departmental counselor.
→ Lillienne Wellington, the daughter of Maximilian Wellington, owner of Wellington hotel and the entire Wellington empire of which the Madame is heir to. Lillienne had an affair with Marion Garvey, a night club owner in downtown Baltimore: the victim in book two. He was involved in the local drug trade. - Maximilian killed Marion. Lillienne was the inheritor of Garvey’s holdings.
→ Jason Huang, Chinese criminal; a cocaine dealer. Min Zhe Jason Huang is employed by the DEA; is—was an undercover agent. He went rogue and became what he is now.
→ Edmund Bishop, the hitman that killed Marion's runners Chance Taylor, Cheri Harmon and Declan Lutz. He used to work for Marion Garvey. Huang bought him from Wellington to clean up after her runners made a mess.
→ Chris Romeo, was on Bishop's hit list and worked for Marion. Bishop was caught before he could kill him. Chris was supposed to be a witness against Bishop but he was killed at the end of the book four, along with Officer McComber, who was there to protect Chris. It is implied that Lillienne killed them.
→ Joshua Appletree, Seong-Jae's last partner in LAPD for two years. Seong-Jae was to/had testify/testified against his former partner in the shooting case.
→ Arash Khalaji and Caroline Khalaji, Mal's parents.
→ Nathaniel ‘Nathan’ Ezekiel McAllister (21), three of the victims' (Darian Park, Trevor Manson and Zachary Weston) ex-boyfriend in book one, and dated briefly another victim, DeMarcus Shay. He was bassist and songwriter in some emo-punk band, Genus Corvidae.
→ Sarah Sutterly, number one Genus Corvidae fangirl and Nathan McAllister Fan Club President. The killer in book one.
→ Logan Wilde, the victim who was killed in a Wellington owned hotell: The W-Suites on North Point.
→ Andy Ortiz, a potential testimony who has had sex with the killer, Nicolas Madsen.
→ Carl Olstadt, the killer's driver; he picks him up where the Mister and Missus (Vanden and Alicia Chambers; they are rich, high society) say to pick him up.
→ Aanga Joshi, SSA who Seong-Jae dated for a week, who fucked Seong-Jae. Joshi was his former senior agent at the BAU.

Whatever Malcolm’s crimes of the past…
Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again.

Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary (Slow-Burn) Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Five.
Love triangle? - No.
Cheating? - No.
HEA? - No.
Favorite character? - Malcolm ‘Mal’ Khalaji.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes, I think so.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not...?
Rating - 3 stars.

[Rina Pride · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seong-Jae e Malcolm ainda vão me matar de ansiedade 🤣 Acho que é a primeira série de livros que acompanho onde o romance é construído de forma lenta mas ágil ao mesmo tempo. Por mais que esteja demorando para eles virar um casal, eu não vejo problema nisso porque está sendo muito bem construído. Cole sabe nos entregar migalhas sem nos fazer desistir do casal, pelo contrário, acho que as migalhas e que torna tudo mais intenso entre eles. Os dois claramente são loucos um pelo outro mas não sabem lidar com isso, o passado de Malcolm com sua ex mulher é algo triste, mas superavel ( ele só precisa aprender isso). O passado de Seong-Jae ainda não foi revelado, mas desconfio que será algo bem pesado ( já estou me preparando emocionalmente). O tal do Sila é claramente o cara que Malcolm ficou logo no primeiro episódio da série, esse cara está circulando Seong-Jae e prevejo que trará ainda muitos problemas para nossa dupla fav de investigadores. Agora estou acompanhando só em audiobook e a experiência tá ótima, não tenho do que reclamar. Só preciso descansar um pouco minha mente para assim continuar os próximos livros. Fazia tempo que eu não concluía livros direto assim ( tava precisando disso) agradeço a Criminal intentions 🙏🏼

[Layla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread #2
That rooftop scene though.
The little touches 😭😭😭

...........
Reread #1

Took me 3 hours to finish this.
Obssessed? Totally.

..........

Yes I finihsed ANOTHER one.

Summary?
These two men are going to kill me.
They are EVERYRHING.
- the sparring scene.
-Jealous SJ
-Clueless Mal
-The TALK on the rooftop
- The intimacy.

Gahhhh
Yes they don't even kiss in this book but theur banter and the UST made up for it.
It was amazing.

I think we all have an idea of who the nameless man is and Mal should stay FAR FAR AWAY.

Sigh. I STAN #MalJae

Now move along...nothing to see here.
*opens book 6*

[aleksandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5

I can honestly say this was my favorite episode so far. Malcon and Seong-Jae finally admit their feelings and the case was probably the most interesting, at least for me.

I'm also officially Anjulie's fan club after she told Malcon to wake up and realize that he may be hurting Seong-Jae by sleeping with others, even if Seong-Jae may not admit it because of his sexuality. My theory about Seong-Jae being asexual was right, and I hope Malcolm will take good care of him, because I know something bad happened to him in the past.

I'm so glad they finally talked because it means their relationship will move forward in great direction I hope. Plus, Huang and Sade, Anjulie and Gabi? YES.

Some of my favorite moments:

"Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again."

“Why are you such an asshole?” he asked. “Because I love it when you call me one,” Malcolm replied, with a completely unrepentant grin. Seong-Jae bit his tongue.

"Malcolm interjected his body between them, making a wall of himself before she could ever come into contact with Seong-Jae. “Hey,” he said firmly, leaning down to look into her eyes., letting his napkin fall. “No touching. He’s mine.”

The last quote was so hot. Next one please.

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve neglected Malcom and Seong-Jae at bit over the past couple of months, but as has been the case with each previous episode, the possibilities, the tension, the complexity and the bigger storyline just keeps building and building. Even more so in this case and with a gripping opener, It’s Witchcraft leaves you satisfied, yet wanting more. Onto episode six...

Hell of a first day back, isn’t it?”

[Karla · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars**

[Pauline · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was by far the most intense emotional rollercoaster of a book I’ve ever read (ask Teru and Sandy who counselled me while reading, I’m so sorry girls for all my emotional ranting, you’re the best for putting up with me 🫶)

Let me start this review by saying: I know I didn’t read it at the right time. So a lot of my experience with this one comes back to me and timing and is not the books fault. Okay? Okay.

Because WOW did I feel a lot while reading this and I think a lot of the time It was not the emotions McCade intended lol

The urge to break my kindle in half during the first half of this book was visceral 😳
All the hurt and rage and indignation book 4 left me with came ROARING back and affected me so heavily that it seriously dampened my reading joy (since then I sat myself down and dissected why it affected me so much, so yay to books continuously teaching us new things about ourselves!).

Like… wdym Mal, you just rolled out of bed after fucking your ex wife repeatedly and now you’re lusting after SJ? You don’t even deserve to LOOK at him right now ffs 🤬
His obtuse, selfish obliviousness grated on my nerves HEAVILY and made me not only lose respect for him as a person but also - and this was the most disappointing thing ever - made me stop rooting for him and SJ for quite some time. I could cry just thinking about it because THAT WAS THE BEST PART OF THESE BOOKS FOR ME!

I’m grateful for all the conversations that have been had between M and Anjulie (fuck, the way she ripped him a new one made me so happy), and M and SJ (though I’m still missing the one between Malcolm and Gabi!!!). All good and important conversations but after being irritated so profoundly for so long, they didn’t pack the emotional gut punch that I was hoping for and expecting. And that just made me sad.

Honestly, I’ve had a bit of a shitty time and am generally emotionally exhausted and those two do not help in that department, ngl 😅 That’s why I say it’s me, hi, I’m the problem it’s me and probably not the book. I would say I should maybe try again some other time but I won’t put myself through that clusterfuck of a situation ever again if I can help it 😂

BUT THEN AGAIN - I still found myself loving their banter, their sparring practice was the hottest thing I’ve ever read, their vulnerability worked for me sometimes and then there also was SJ in nothing but low slung gi pants 😮‍💨
All in all I’d say I mellowed out in the second half of the book, thank fuck. So I haven’t lost all hope that they will be able to hook me again, Malcolm especially.

So yeah, apart from the rollercoaster of these emotional ups and downs, the case was interesting (but very gruesome again), the overarching plot line is still hella intriguing and 2 stars of my rating alone go to SJ punching M in the face while wearing nothing but said gi pants. Fuck, I love him.
3,5⭐️

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This keeps getting better and better! The level of intensity both personal and professional keeps escalating, more players enter the fray, more thoughts and feelings weave themselves into Malcolm and Seong-Jae canvas. I believe that the painting will soon follow. And it's going to be beautiful. The characters are complex and multidimensional, the situations are raw and real, the murders are devious and shocking. But the best part is Malcolm and Seong-Jae.

This time the murder investigation takes the back seat to the development of personal relationship between MCs. Who knew that touching fingers and whispered words could be more seductive than the hottest kiss. I waited with bated breath to see what will happen between them here and they didn't disappoint! Some parts are very emotional and a tad painful, always intense and very intimate. The tidbits Mr McCade drops are explosive, the subjects he tackles are complex and on point. I loved these two imperfect slightly dented but not broken men who sought solace in each other in the time of need, loved the trust that developed between them to the point that some of the darkest secrets were revealed. It was amazing.

The murder investigation was thrilling but still did not overshadow the emotional side of the book. This time it was pretty gruesome and was dealt with very quickly. More was told about characters that at first didn't make sense but now it gets a little clearer one book at a time. I am enjoying this series immensely and highly recommend it!

[Lisa the book CREEP · Rating 4 out of 5]

People are strange, don’t you think?” he said softly. “They’re like little machines. You push a button, and they spit out a reaction. An emotion. Love, hate, fear, anger…it’s all just programming. You can program anyone for almost anything. Push a button, hate your parents. Push a button, hate yourself. Push a button, tumble headlong into jealousy, resentment, bitterness.” "Push a button…fall in love." 🖤


“…how come we never dated?”

“Mal,” she answered softly, almost under her breath. “Mal’s why.” 💔😭

[oshiiy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars 💫

I loved this episode. This is by far the best one. Cole is doing a great job. 👏

I know still, I couldn't get a glimpse of Seong-Jae and Mal’s romantic relationship. However, they spoke more secrets and emotional things in their lives to each other. I loved how Seong-Jae peeled off his mask for a little time. He let himself be fragile in front of Mal. It was so precious. How Malcolm understood Seong-Jae was the loveliest thing I've read in this episode. They trust each other. I loved how their relationship has built up step by step.

The book was uncovered extra puzzles a little more little. But there are more questions left without answers. I sense like there's a dangerous thing that will go to happen in the future. I really like Sade. But I don't understand how he has trapped that mess. I want him to be happy. He is a good person. All the things that happened really led me to not trust everyone in the series. Everyone has their mysteries and I hope they will unravel in the future.

On to the next book..

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am actually brain-dead and speechless.

How can so much happen in a 'mere' episode?
And I am not talking about the gruesome murder at the beginning (if you are in any way squeamish, I would advise you to skip over the first chapter)

This was the episode of revelations and a huge step forward to what's going on between Malcolm and Seong-Jae.
Please don't expect anything physical, there are a couple of very valid and important reasons why that might not happen quickly! And it feels totally right.
When I am saying physical I mean sexual intimacy, because Seong-Jae does have a way to express his feelings with a very subtle body language of his own! Which kind of melts me into my seat again and again. (Not mentioning that particular hug up on that rooftop.)

The centrepiece of this episode is the rooftop scene. I read it twice. I needed to sleep on it to digest and then reread slowly to really savour every word (again) . I was even more mesmerized the second time round, unable to take my eyes off a single sentence. And I highlighted the hell out of that scene, but I am going to refrain from quoting because it would give too much away.

What I can say is that Malocm and Seong-Jae talk. That we find out more about Malcolm's past and his relationship with Gabi. That they reach some kind of understanding, or rather an acknowledgement of that there is something between them. Even if they don't know what to do about it.
And that I felt train-wrecked after it, and emotionally drained. And I ADORED it all! Absolutely stellar writing!
But... it seems that Malcolm is opening himself up a lot more than Seong-Jae.

If I haven't said this before: Cole McCade is a master of words and language. I adore how he writes emotions. The imagery, the comparisons, the depth (abyss-deep, I would say!). The INTENSITY.

Apart from being sent through the proverbial emotional wringer, the other things I loved most (and which are a lot less masochistic) are:

.) the sparring session between Malcolm and Seong-Jae
.) Seong-Jae facing off with Huang
.) Maloclm and Seong -Jae complimenting each other! Precious!

What totally creeps me out is the Nameless Man. I think we all have got an idea who it is by now. And I am screaming DANGER! every time he comes anywhere near Malcolm.

There are so many surprises around every corner in this series, you can never be sure what's going to happen next. Off to find out what the next episode holds!

[MarianR · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think the most remarkable thing about this episode are the secundary characters.
The development and history of them is incredible. The author is giving them their own role for the drama and it is very intriguing. And I loved it.
Am I a happy girl because Khalaji and Yoon were able to talk? Yes. Although they did not talk about everything, I am very happy about that🤭.

"Wordless, Seong-Jae held him, his embrace so warm, so comforting, long fingers threading through Malcolm’s hair in soothing strokes. He said so much through touch, more than most managed with the longest speeches, and that touch right now promised safety, promised forgiveness, promised kindness, promised acceptance. Whatever Malcolm’s crimes of the past… Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again."

And with that I say goodbye and I go running to read the other one!🏃‍♀️

[~✿ Tala✿~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

It feels like we're starting to get the puzzle pieces uncovered, more and more clues that have left me with so many questions...



This book broke my heart and then slowly put me back together. Everyone who told me to be patient and keep going was SO right, it was definitely worth it. So many precious and delicate moments between Malcolm and Seong-Jae. I'm obssessed!!

[haletostilinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to shake these two idiots and also go "now kiss!" at the same time lmao. But they're so amazing together and I absolutely FREAKING ADORED their progress in this book, their ever deepening relationship.

I suspected it, but was still surprised when we learn Seong-Jae is gay grayace/demi but it fits his character. That doesn't mean that Seong-Jae won't feel anything romantic or sexual to Malcolm (we already got from that he DOES feel attraction to Malcolm, and a growing romantic attraction as well) just that generally he does not feel it. I like how the author described in the end how demi/grayace people sometimes feel when they do meet someone they feel attraction to, because it describes Seong-Jae dealing with it to a T.

It was interesting learning more of Malcolm's past, and I was actually expecting the child he and Gabrielle lost to have been a born one, maybe a few years old, but turns out it was a miscarriage well into the pregnancy. No less devastating, but different than what I imagined. Explains how Malcolm never thought of another name in his private thoughts aside from Gabrielle's, though.

I was so happy with how this moved their relationship forward, and the plot forward. We learned some things about Sade - and what exactly was going on with them being with Jason Huang, and a little more about Lillienne Wellington, and the over arching plot. I also totally think that Sila is that blond guy who Malcolm had a one-night-stand with in the very first book, because he shows up again in this one and he acts fairly odd. Pretty suspicious to me.

The murder was gruesome and horrible and pretty damn twisted. It was hard to read about at times. And not that it wasn't important, but I felt it took less of a forefront in the plot in this book, which I didn't mind, because it meant a deeper focus on Malcolm and Seong-Jae and furthering their relationship.

I loved having them back together almost all the time. There's just something so great and special about them. Also that sparring scene in the beginning was really fucking hot. The heat, the chemistry, and the passion. I expected them to stop fighting and start making out any minute. I need it! Haha :P

This felt like an episode of TV that would be focused heavily on the romantic couple - which, if I love the couple, is always awesome and amazing - not that Seong-Jae and Malcolm aren't the MC's in every other book, but they aren't always as much of a focus as they were in this one, is all I'm saying. (Them actually talking to each other, learning things about each other, connecting on a deeper level. I hope we only get more of that from here on out.)

And alas, like with TV shows, we have to wait, and it is painful. I want these two together so badly. But at the same time, the slow burn is delicious...but also, I want them together so bad lol. Guess we'll see if it happens in the next one or in the season finale...or somewhere in between. I'm guessing for somewhere in between...hopefully. No one likes a cliffhanger, mmkay ;)

Cannot wait for the next one. This series is amazing and keeps me glued to ever page and I just gotta keep reading whenever I get them. And I TOTALLY ship Seong-Jae and Malcolm, fyi ;) #Kaloon 5eva lol

Wonder if that should be their ship name...I like it ;) (Also yes go read this rn if you've been keeping up with the series, it was so good!)

[vee]

still abit boring but am gonna continue

“I can be sorry I upset you without knowing what I did to upset you, Seong-Jae.”
“Why?”
“Because I like how we are when we’re okay with each other.” With a faint smile, Malcolm shrugged. “Believe it or not, I like having you for a partner. That’s not something I ever thought I would say again.”

'Malcom wasnt overly surprised that, the moment he and Seong-Jae stepped into the homicide bullpen, everyone stopped and stared at them.
It wasn’t really him. At least he was wearing a shirt, and had a dry cleaner’s garment bag dangling over his shoulder by one finger hooked in the hanger, suit hanging against his back.
It was the half-naked crow of a man gliding smoothly in his wake, walking through the Central HQ station like it was absolutely normal to strut around work in nothing but a pair of workout pants and motorcycle boots, his lean, hard-cut body still glistening with a drying sheen of sweat.
Some days, Malcolm wondered if Seong-Jae was really that divorced from social conventions, or if he just didn’t care.'

oy seongjae yoon, ily <3

“Tch.”
Malcolm sighed patiently. “Seong-Jae.”
“What.”
“Seong-Jae.”
He might as well have caught Seong-Jae by the collar and yanked him about to face Malcolm. Seong-Jae snapped his head toward him, narrowing his eyes, grinding his teeth. “What.”
“Did you pick my lock?”
“Nngh.” Seong-Jae glowered, growling in the back of his throat, the tips of his ears hot—after a few grating moments where the sound of his own molars clashing together almost shredded his nerves, he muttered reluctantly, “…this time.”
“What do you mean, this time?”
“I mean,” Seong-Jae snapped, “that you are inordinately careless when engaged in other activities, and frequently leave your door unlocked. With a stranger in your apartment.”
“So that’s why you’re so worried about the strangers in my apartment, huh?” He settled to lean against the wall next to Seong-Jae, his broad shoulder brushing Seong-Jae’s shoulder and arm, hard-hewn and thick through the suit’s fine wool. “I’m glad you’re so concerned about me.”
Seong-Jae curled his upper lip and pulled away, shifting one inch over until they were no longer touching. “Do not be ridiculous. You are not appropriately attired.”
“For what?”
“Your physical assessment,” Seong-Jae pointed out. “You are aware that as your ranking officer, it is up to me whether or not you can return to active duty?”
“I was hoping you wouldn’t remember that. I usually just get away with a quick checkup physical.”
“Malcolm?”
“What?” Malcolm asked blandly.
“Malcolm.”
“…you’re a tyrant.” Malcolm grumbled against the rim of his mug. “Fine. How are you planning to torture me?”
“A proper physical assessment would suffice,” Seong-Jae said—then pulled his hand from his pocket and pointed sternly at Malcolm before the old wolf could fully open his mouth. “No.”
Malcolm grinned unrepentantly, the weathered, aged seams around his eyes crinkling at the corners. “You’re starting to know me too well.”
“Unfortunately. Regrettably.” With a huff, Seong-Jae folded his arms over his chest.
“You’re normally more subtle than this.”
“Than what?”
“Really? That’s how you’re going to play it?”
“Give me that,” Seong-Jae bit off, and snatched the second mug from Malcolm’s hand. “And go change.”
Malcolm just gave him a knowing look, then chuckled and turned to duck back inside. “Yes, dear."

little interactions like this <3

“You’ve been getting on with the field work?” he asked tentatively.
“Mm.”
“Anything unusual?”
“No.” Seong-Jae seemed as if he would say nothing else, then, “A hitand-run driver identified by plates on traffic cameras. An alcohol poisoning case at the university that may be tried as a homicide rather than seeking suit for wrongful death.”
Mechanical information. Recited tonelessly, emptily, with no interest— either in the cases or in talking to Malcolm. Malcolm hadn’t realized just how much Seong-Jae had subtly warmed to him in small, yet measurable ways until they’d been withdrawn. Sometimes, he realized… Small things could hurt as much as the heaviest blow.
“Do you want to finish them out together, or are you good wrapping up on your own?” he asked.
“I am fine,” Seong-Jae said distantly, his fingers curling against his mouth, gaze fixed out the window but hardly seeming to see the city blurring past, eyes unfocused. “There is nothing left but paperwork.”
“Half the time it feels like that’s most of our job.”
Seong-Jae said nothing.

only bcs he's clueless and doesnt realize how much he hurt my bb seongjae will i forgive him

“You are wrapping as though you are attempting to protect your skin. The purpose is to reinforce your joints and bones, so that the impact of a blow is less likely to tear them out of place in damaging ways and permanently injure your hands and wrists. Learn how to do it right.”
“Yes, Sir,” Malcolm murmured, and bit back his grin at the foul look Seong-Jae flung him.
He wasn’t about to tell Seong-Jae he knew all that. That he’d just beend istracted. It seemed to make his partner feel a little better to have something to snarl at Malcolm over, and it eased something inside Malcolm himself to have Seong-Jae fussing and growling over him, those warm hands firmly layering the tape over his skin, sealing it off, then starting on the other hand in efficient, brusque motions. The entire time Seong-Jae hissed things under his breath, too low to be audible but most certainly irritated, the lyrical lilt of his subtle Korean accent coming out more strongly with every vituperative word, his brows drawn into black and furious furrows. And when he was done with Malcolm’s other hand, he promptly dumped it in Malcolm’s lap, snatched the roll of tape from him, and started wrapping his own knuckles.
Mouth twitching with the struggle it took not to smile, Malcolm flexed his hands, clenching and unclenching them until the tape settled with his movements, giving him a full range of motion. He glanced at Seong-Jae, watching from the corner of his eye as Seong-Jae layered the thick bands of white tape against his skin, glaring at his own hands as if they’d mortally offended him
“You worried about me, Seong-Jae?” Malcolm asked softly. Seong-Jae stiffened. He lifted his head, fixing Malcolm with a seething look, before one hand shot out, tangled in the front of Malcolm’s shirt, and jerked him close until he was eye to cold, penetrating black eye and just barely holding back a startled yelp.
“Do not,” Seong-Jae bit off, baring his teeth, “tempt me to hit you before we officially begin your assessment.”
Then he let go, leaving Malcolm rocking back—
“I think,” he murmured, more to himself than anything, “I missed you.”

and am so glad there was some 'vulnerability' here :

“Don’t pull back,” he whispered, and tentatively slipped his fingers into Seong-Jae’s hair, cradling him, letting cool washes of silk pour over his fingers.
“Please, just this once. We don’t have to talk about it, but…stay like this. If you want to.” The knot in his throat was trying to kill him, trying to choke him into nothing. “Do you want to?”
Nothing. A waiting and trembling nothing.
Until Seong-Jae’s arms were around his shoulders, draped loosely, fingers laced against the back of his neck. And Seong-Jae’s head was on his shoulder, resting there quietly, tensely, as if waiting to be pushed away.
“Mn.”
“Okay,” Malcolm said, breathing him in, absorbing that scent of diesel and smoke, as he curled his hands against the small of Seong-Jae’s back and held while he could. “Okay, then.”
And he simply stayed.

[juli✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝟬𝟰/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭 - 𝟰.𝟱 ★
𝟬𝟵/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭 - 𝟱 ★

❝Tell me I’m not the only one feeling this.❞ He searched those unreadable eyes, looking for…for…anything. ❝I can’t get you out of me, and it’s fucking up my head.❞

𝗦𝗢𝗡𝗚 𝗥𝗘𝗖
— 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝘆 𝗠𝘆𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳
— 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗜𝘁 𝗜𝗳 𝗪𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗜𝘁


I am so fucking happy right now, - 😭

It happened, it really and truly happened. Seong-JaeMal finally communicated, and it. was. glorious. That scene on the roof will forever be my favorite scene in the series. The moment when Mal and Seong-Jae finally stopped dancing around each other was fan-freaking-tastic.


𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗦 (𝗟𝗘𝗚𝗚𝗢)

❝I can be sorry I upset you without knowing what I did to upset you, Seong-Jae.❞
❝Why?❞
❝Because I like how we are when we’re okay with each other.❞ With a faint smile, Malcolm shrugged. ❝Believe it or not, I like having you for a partner. That’s not something I ever thought I would say again.❞

♥ 𝗦𝗘𝗢𝗡𝗚-𝗝𝗔𝗘
— Seong-Jae has really been hitting differently this go around, and no where is that more apparent than in this book. Watching him battle his emotions / feelings towards Mal was everything. Additionally, his confession on the rooftop was still just as poignant as the first time I read it. Seong-Jae is someone who has so much empathy that he has to keep people at arms length. As Malcolm astutely points out, Seong-Jae is incredibly soft on the inside.

❝I will never expect you to put my life above the life and well-being of someone you love, Malcolm.❞ Dark eyes held his with such promise, such painful and quiet understanding. ❝No matter what your sense of duty expects.❞
Don’t you know that right now…
You’re the one I’d give up life and limb for?
You’re the one I’d put above anyone and everyone else?

♥ 𝗠𝗔𝗟𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗠
— My emotions regarding Malcolm have been, varied. The first time I read CRIMINAL INTENTIONS his sleeping around didn't really both me that much, but… going into CI knowing how good Mal and Seong-Jae are together made reading those scenes that much harder. But, I will say I understand Mal, and why he is the way he is. Malcolm is holding on to a lot of pain and guilt. And, by keeping people at arms length he is able to protect himself. That said, what I love about Mal is the way he isn't afraid to be vulnerable with the people he loves *cough* Seong-Jae *cough*

Wordless, Seong-Jae held him, his embrace so warm, so comforting, long fingers threading through Malcolm’s hair in soothing strokes. He said so much through touch, more than most managed with the longest speeches, and that touch right now promised safety, promised forgiveness, promised kindness, promised acceptance. Whatever Malcolm’s crimes of the past… Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again.

✔ 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗜𝗗𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦
— One of my favorite things about the CRIMINAL INTENTIONS series is just how much love and care is put into all of the characters. Cara as Seong-Jae's best friend is wonderful. Anjulie as the stern but caring police captain. Sade the little spider. And, Gabi, Mal's ex-wife. All of these characters feel well rounded and fleshed out.

❝He passed.❞
Anjulie pursed her lips, scanning the page. ❝Frankly, at his age, I’m shocked.❞
❝…excuse the fuck out of you?❞ Malcolm growled.

♥ 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘
— This is how you do slow-burn. The way COLE MCCADE built the foundation in book one, and then slowly added brick by brick was a masterclass in how to do slow-burn romance correctly. Mal and Seong-Jae really got to know one another with each case they worked. We got to see them slowly come to depend and care deeply for one another. Their romance felt… inevitable. And the tension and buildup paid off in a great way. I think one of the main reasons they danced around one another for so long was because, they knew. They knew that once they both committed that was it. They were it for each other.

❝Ow.❞ Malcolm squinted one eye up; the cold and the pressure hurt, but he couldn’t bring himself to pull away from Seong-Jae’s touch. ❝Everyone keeps punching me.❞
Seong-Jae chuckled, low and velvety. ❝You have that kind of face.❞
❝Yeah?❞ Malcolm murmured. …
❝Yeah,❞ Seong-Jae answered. And when Malcolm leaned into him and rested his head to his shoulder… Seong-Jae didn’t pull away.

🅾🅺 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗘
— This case was a weird one, not gonna lie. It was just… strange.

❝Deep breath. We’re just going to go in, see what we see, and get out. No more than an hour.❞
❝An hour in this suit is an eternity in hell.❞
❝But you look so good in it,❞ Malcolm rumbled, …

┍━━━━━✧✦━━━━━┑
𝗖𝗥𝗜𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦: 𝗦𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗢𝗡 𝗢𝗡𝗘

𝟭. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗻𝘀 - 𝟰.𝟱 ✩
𝟮. 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗸 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗲𝘀 - 𝟯.𝟱 ✩
𝟯. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗘𝘆𝗲 - 𝟰 ✩
𝟰. 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 - 𝟰.𝟲 ✩
𝟱. 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 - 𝟱 ✩
𝟲. 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗦𝗺𝗼𝗸𝗲 - 𝟰 ✩
𝟳. 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 - 𝟰.𝟮𝟱 ✩
𝟴. 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲 - 𝟰.𝟳𝟱/𝟱 ✩
𝟵. 𝗔 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲'𝘀 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲 - 𝟰.𝟮𝟱 ✩
𝟭𝟬. 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 - 𝟰.𝟱 ✩
𝟭𝟭. 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗼 - 𝟯.𝟱 ✩
𝟭𝟮. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲: 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗜 - 𝟯.𝟮𝟱 ✩
𝟭𝟯. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗚𝗮𝗺𝗲: 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗜𝗜 - 𝟰 ✩
┕━━━━━✧✦━━━━━┙

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𝙾𝚁𝙸𝙶𝙸𝙽𝙰𝙻 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆 - 𝟶𝟺/𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟶

4.5 stars!!



UGH THAT CONVERSATION ON THE ROOF WAS EVERYTHING!

"He bumped Seong-Jae with his elbow again. “I even missed you. Surly as you are.” Seong-Jae grimaced. “The feeling is not mutual.” “Yes, it is.”

[Teru · Rating 4 out of 5]

How had he gotten in this deep?
How had this crept up on him, until it transformed from a quietly unwanted attraction to a pain embedded under his skin, eating into him day by day?

It's been almost a year since I've had to take a break after book four (I hold grudges, can you tell?) and you know what, I still remember every damn side character that's mentioned. That's how amazing and memorable this series is.

I forgot how damn addicting Malcolm and Seong-Jae are 😳 And even though SJ is my absolute favourite no contest, Malcolm is seriously pulling at my heartstrings here. He's finally opening his eyes, acknowledging his unhealthy behavior, and opening himself up more. The honest conversations they had, getting to know each other more, going deeper and deeper... I just loved to see that. And Malcolm saying no to Gabi, finally? Thank you 😤

Seriously, kudos to McCade because every time the certain pretty young guy appears on a page, either physically or in Seong-Jae's memories, I get cold all over and my stomach clenches with something akin to fear, making me anxious. And that's an indicator of some brilliant writing here.

Also, I have to confess... The way I suddenly burst out crying after I saw Seong-Jae's asexuality being so openly acknowledged and discussed caught me off guard so much that I had to take a break and just breathe. I'm not sure what happened but...oh well. Thank you, Cole McCade. Honestly. 💗

And thank you, Evie, for getting into this series and reviewing it because it made me fall back into this rabbit hole 😊

[Gaby · Rating 5 out of 5]

You guys, this is not a drill. We got THE TALK!

I really hope Malcolm stops sleeping around now, otherwise 🔪.

Also, I’m adding Seong Jae’s gym pants and Malcolm’s reaction to them to the list of moments I’ll never get over from this series.

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cole McCade is a bloody genius. The writing, the plot, the main characters and side characters, hell even the baddies is so on point! It just reels me in, grabs me tight and does not let go. And don't even get me started on the exquisite slow burn Seong-Jae and Malcolm have going on. Gaaah!

I've said already he's a genius, and he really is. What a brilliant series!

[Reem · Rating 4 out of 5]

It keeps getting better and better🥰🥰. sorry no time to write anything properly, I'm off to the next one!

[Gabi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

“Tell me I’m not the only one feeling this.” He searched those unreadable eyes, looking for…for…anything. “I can’t get you out of me, and it’s fucking up my head.”

*******

Wordless, Seong-Jae held him, his embrace so warm, so comforting, long fingers threading through Malcolm’s hair in soothing strokes. He said so much through touch, more than most managed with the longest speeches, and that touch right now promised safety, promised forgiveness, promised kindness, promised acceptance.
Whatever Malcolm’s crimes of the past…
Here, in this now, in Seong-Jae’s arms, he finally felt whole again.