What do you think?
Rate this book
Criminal Intentions #7
Cult of Personality
ABOUT THIS EPISODE
"He pushed me."
Three words turn a suspected suicide into an unsettling murder, pointing to a killer whose methods and motives threaten to expose buried memories of Seong-Jae's past. Yet neither Malcolm nor Seong-Jae are ready for the shadowed secrets that could shatter their tenuous new relationship, when a haunting presence seems to stalk them around every corner, watching their smallest move, baiting them and flirting just out of reach. Is it the killer, always staying one step ahead?
Or a green-eyed ghost, luring both Malcolm and Seong-Jae toward the point of no return?
"He pushed me."
Three words turn a suspected suicide into an unsettling murder, pointing to a killer whose methods and motives threaten to expose buried memories of Seong-Jae's past. Yet neither Malcolm nor Seong-Jae are ready for the shadowed secrets that could shatter their tenuous new relationship, when a haunting presence seems to stalk them around every corner, watching their smallest move, baiting them and flirting just out of reach. Is it the killer, always staying one step ahead?
Or a green-eyed ghost, luring both Malcolm and Seong-Jae toward the point of no return?
172 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2019
95 people are currently reading
549 people want to read
About the author
Cole McCade
65 books1,530 followersSlender. 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...
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...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews
April 18, 2023
— 4.5 stars ☆
so with this, i just wanted to emphasise on how much i adore this series! but first i have to say one thing - the way the discussion of boundaries and what one can and cannot do in a relationship? it was so valid. this was with regards to touching, kissing, fondling, foreplay, leading into sex, anything really. but the way it was handled here? i have to applaud it bcs GOSH. ohmygosh. it's so beautifully and remarkably written. seong-jae was so valid for each and every one of his choices with his sexuality and how and when he wanted to have sex, and i really respect how the author handled this so so well!! and when malcolm accepted him for who he was, tears literally came into my eyes bc this couple >>>
my fave things about this (bear in mind there's going to be a lot of unintelligible fangirling and squealing over them!!)
✧ the dynamics between mal and seong-jae have me in a CHOKEHOLD, i swear. i'd run into a fire for these two any day. the way mal'd be so brutally honest and straightforward and romantic and gooey with seong-jae and then seong-jae would blush and 'tch' and be all grumpy but secretly happy?? 😭 they own me. they're literally so soft with each other it makes me wanna melt into a puddle. <3
sobbing so hard at the acceptance. 😭
✧ seong-jae singing mal a lullaby to make him go to sleep on his thighs ohmygosh! 🥰
✧ the way seong-jae was jealous of gabrielle and finally admitted it to himself and mal LMAO i'm laughing so hard
✧ the cute moments between them are everything!! the way they'd just brush a hair, or wildly kiss the lips, of each other, it's all so passionate and lovely and did i mention i'm in love with them. 😭😭
✧ THEY'RE FINALLY BOYFRIENDS EEP! but really, they're the definition of soulmates for me. 🥺
✧ honorable mention: seong-jae with his thoughts of "annoying old man, making his breaths hitch and chest tighten like that" which always makes me snicker and giggle like a madwoman ILOVEHIMSOSOMUCH!! 🥺 and mal is so the very definition of soft ngl. i love him so much.
fuck that sila pov in the end, he wants to break my soulmates apart? and wants to shatter seong-jae my beloved? i won't let him 🥰 he better not come for my babies OR ELSE. 💀🔪
the obsession is definitely continued, and i had so much fun buddy reading with you, hanna! can't wait to binge the entire series with you heheh (no way are you getting rid of me bby 🥰).
so with this, i just wanted to emphasise on how much i adore this series! but first i have to say one thing - the way the discussion of boundaries and what one can and cannot do in a relationship? it was so valid. this was with regards to touching, kissing, fondling, foreplay, leading into sex, anything really. but the way it was handled here? i have to applaud it bcs GOSH. ohmygosh. it's so beautifully and remarkably written. seong-jae was so valid for each and every one of his choices with his sexuality and how and when he wanted to have sex, and i really respect how the author handled this so so well!! and when malcolm accepted him for who he was, tears literally came into my eyes bc this couple >>>
❝You have got to stop saying shit like that.❞
❝Why?❞
❝Because.❞ Rough fingers brushed under his chin, grazing against his skin in slow sparks, trailing along his jaw. ❝It just gets me more and more fucked up over you.❞
Seong-Jae took a shaky breath. ❝…I want that. I want you to feel that way.❞
❝Why?❞
❝So I know it is not just me.❞
my fave things about this (bear in mind there's going to be a lot of unintelligible fangirling and squealing over them!!)
✧ the dynamics between mal and seong-jae have me in a CHOKEHOLD, i swear. i'd run into a fire for these two any day. the way mal'd be so brutally honest and straightforward and romantic and gooey with seong-jae and then seong-jae would blush and 'tch' and be all grumpy but secretly happy?? 😭 they own me. they're literally so soft with each other it makes me wanna melt into a puddle. <3
❝If you thought I would reject that part of you…❞ Malcolm’s hold tightened, and he rested his brow to the back of Seong-Jae’s neck, warm breaths and tangled hair slithering over his skin, down his spine. ❝No. I won’t. I may not have the experience to understand…but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…❞ He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. ❝Hold on to me. It’s okay.❞
sobbing so hard at the acceptance. 😭
✧ seong-jae singing mal a lullaby to make him go to sleep on his thighs ohmygosh! 🥰
✧ the way seong-jae was jealous of gabrielle and finally admitted it to himself and mal LMAO i'm laughing so hard
✧ the cute moments between them are everything!! the way they'd just brush a hair, or wildly kiss the lips, of each other, it's all so passionate and lovely and did i mention i'm in love with them. 😭😭
✧ THEY'RE FINALLY BOYFRIENDS EEP! but really, they're the definition of soulmates for me. 🥺
He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart, to do so.
Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep.
A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way again.
✧ honorable mention: seong-jae with his thoughts of "annoying old man, making his breaths hitch and chest tighten like that" which always makes me snicker and giggle like a madwoman ILOVEHIMSOSOMUCH!! 🥺 and mal is so the very definition of soft ngl. i love him so much.
fuck that sila pov in the end, he wants to break my soulmates apart? and wants to shatter seong-jae my beloved? i won't let him 🥰 he better not come for my babies OR ELSE. 💀🔪
the obsession is definitely continued, and i had so much fun buddy reading with you, hanna! can't wait to binge the entire series with you heheh (no way are you getting rid of me bby 🥰).
February 24, 2019
5+++++++ stars
WARNING! Gifs.. Gifs.. and more Gifs
I thought it would get boring.. ummm nope! i thought wrong, it gets better with each episode. GAAAAAHHHH!
I am happy that the case did not get overshadowed by the cutesy moments. Me is satisfied. The case was another one with the cray cray hiding behind bible. Ugh! I dislike those with a passion.
These guys talk things out! That is the other best part of this series. I dislike unnecessary miscommunication. I am all for, when you have something to say, say it! or when you want to ask something, ask! don't go sulking for no good reason. I am so happy!
The writing.....
The Kissing.. ASSSDDKLGJHHLLLKG!! Mal and Seong-Jae love to kiss and i love reading about my guys kissing..
Malcolm was growling, fingers tightening in Seong-Jae’s hair. Seong-Jae smiled to himself…and sealed their mouths together, stealing deep, languid tastes of Malcolm’s mouth, twining their tongues together and tasting him until their lips grew so slick, so hot, that each time they parted and came together again their flesh met with the quietest of damp sounds, sweetly suggestive of other things and barely heard.
The Cuddling.... GAAAH!
The sex scenes are hot, dirty, rough, tender with some smoking hot biting.. Double GAAAAH!!
Sila gives me the creeps.
Mal and Sade...
This is one friendship that should never be messed with, or i will start cutting...
Seong-Jae made that soft “tch” sound…but then crushed his mouth to Malcolm’s. Quick and hot enough to take Malcolm’s breath away, a thing of irritation and vengeance and clashing heat, and he groaned as he let himself be overwhelmed, breathing in that scent of diesel and smoke as Seong-Jae practically punished him with bites and vicious strokes for the crime of actually wanting him.
GAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!
WARNING! Gifs.. Gifs.. and more Gifs
I thought it would get boring.. ummm nope! i thought wrong, it gets better with each episode. GAAAAAHHHH!
I am happy that the case did not get overshadowed by the cutesy moments. Me is satisfied. The case was another one with the cray cray hiding behind bible. Ugh! I dislike those with a passion.
These guys talk things out! That is the other best part of this series. I dislike unnecessary miscommunication. I am all for, when you have something to say, say it! or when you want to ask something, ask! don't go sulking for no good reason. I am so happy!
The writing.....
The Kissing.. ASSSDDKLGJHHLLLKG!! Mal and Seong-Jae love to kiss and i love reading about my guys kissing..
Malcolm was growling, fingers tightening in Seong-Jae’s hair. Seong-Jae smiled to himself…and sealed their mouths together, stealing deep, languid tastes of Malcolm’s mouth, twining their tongues together and tasting him until their lips grew so slick, so hot, that each time they parted and came together again their flesh met with the quietest of damp sounds, sweetly suggestive of other things and barely heard.
The Cuddling.... GAAAH!
The sex scenes are hot, dirty, rough, tender with some smoking hot biting.. Double GAAAAH!!
Sila gives me the creeps.
Mal and Sade...
This is one friendship that should never be messed with, or i will start cutting...
Seong-Jae made that soft “tch” sound…but then crushed his mouth to Malcolm’s. Quick and hot enough to take Malcolm’s breath away, a thing of irritation and vengeance and clashing heat, and he groaned as he let himself be overwhelmed, breathing in that scent of diesel and smoke as Seong-Jae practically punished him with bites and vicious strokes for the crime of actually wanting him.
GAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!
July 9, 2024
"I'm your partner. I won't let you fall."
Gahhhhh!!!!!!! This series is seriously messing with my average rating and I totally blame it on the outstanding writing style. It's like getting my monthly dose of catnip and right now I don't see me giving it anything less than five stars EVERY SINGLE TIME, so consider yourselves warned...
More often than not, the 'hunt', this 'dance around each other' is the most interesting part in a book for me and when both guys are finally together it starts to getting bland and sometimes even boring (yep, I can hear your gasps), but right from the start I had a feeling that Mal and Seong-Jae would be epic together and this feeling didn't deceive me.
AND. IT. IS. GETTING. BETTER. WITH. EACH. BOOK. THROUGH
~ Cuddle scenes, that made me swoon
"You should have warned me you were a biter. Be careful." Seong-Jae slipped his hand from inside Malcolm's slacks and tangled his fingers in his beard, tugging him close. "I bite back."
Malcolm smiled slowly, shifting to drape a heavy arm over Seong-Jae's waist, gathering him in. "God, I hope so," he rumbled, and brushed his lips across Seong-Jae's.
~ Conversations, that were overdue and opened up the path to complete trust
"It has been fifteen years... but what I did to myself then changed me forever, Malcolm.
~ Banter, that made me laugh
"You actually like me," he ventured, and Malcolm smiled, eyes crinkling at the corners.
"Yeah. Yeah, I do."
"Why?"
"If I tried to list the reasons, you'd punch me before I got to three."
~ Cuddle scenes, that melted me
It felt almost surreal, to be sprawled out in his bed with Seong-Jae naked and spent atop him, willingly and comfortably wrapped up with him; after a few minutes Seong-Jae shifted his position to pillow his cheek against Malcolm's chest instead, one arm creeping up around his neck and fingers toying into his hair.
~ Scorching rough sex, that made me deliciously hot all over
Malcolm met him with grinding hips and hardness twin to his own and that fucking scent , that dripping hot scent of slicked anticipation, that scent of deep animal fucking that would be all he needed to forget anything but Malcolm.
~ An utterly disturbing case about twisted minds hiding their depravity behind the excuse of religion, that made me uneasy and angry and that brought Seong-Jae almost to his limits.
~ Some 'oh sh*t' moments , that made me read through my fingers
... the world tilted and tumbled and plummeted as the bridge rail struck him hard in the stomach, before he was dropping with nothing beneath him and the river seeming to yawn open a hungry black mouth beneath him.
~ And... did I already mention cuddle scenes? I did??? Yeah well, I can't mention them often enough. Yep, that good! Next one please! ;-)
April 27, 2025
It's no secret that I am not a mystery reader, yet here I am, in book #7.
So, what I have to say will be short.
The things that happened in this episode in terms of romance made every dead body I stumbled upon since the beginning of this series worthwhile.
LoVeD!
April 6, 2023
4.25 “I’m your partner. I won’t let you fall.”... “I am your partner too. And I will not let you fall, either.” Stars
Thoughts:
Nothing can ruin the high I am on after reading this book!! My heart is soaring after every. single. adorable. moment.
What we get
-B.A.N.T.E.R. (it never fails)
-Softies being soft
-STEAMY STEAMY SCENES! (with bedroom commands and biting - HALP!)
-Kiss demonstrations
-Walls being dropped with open communication
-“I’m just not in the mood for dead bodies right now when I’m more interested in the very live one in my bed.”
-Swoon worthy dialogue
-“Will you stay with me?” “Yes”
-Lullabies
-A glimpse into a side ship again
-A rescue scene
-Growth and development
-Fluff galore!!!
The case in this one is very background with the main focus of Malcolm and Seong-Jae finally being in their little happy bubble while figuring out how this is going to work between personal and professional worlds.
The deep dive into demisexuality & asexuality and the ins and outs and miscommunication of it was one of my favorite topics (on top of switches)!! I also loved the discussion on boundaries because it is very necessary. The healthy discovery into their relationship is everything!
I could write sonnets about Cole McCade’s writing. It is beautifully descriptive, but never overly!
Another wonderful addition to the Criminal Intentions series. Scared and eager to be ruined by what is to come with my bestie, lila, who is reading this with me!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Crime junkies and slow burn romance lovers
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Good and faithful KU E-book!
How did I discover this:
LILA! And now we are buddy reading the series! Dreams do come true! 🥰
Pace:
Fast
POV:
Multi - Malcolm and Seong-Jae primarily
Quotes: I had so many more quotes to add but I know there is a limit! *SPOILERS*
“If you keep that up, you’re going to get pinned again.” “Is that meant to be a threat?” “Closer to a promise.”
“You should have warned me you were a biter. Be careful. I bite back.” “God, I hope so,”
'Malcolm was his partner. His subordinate. Ten years his senior. Infuriating. Insufferable. Annoying. Stubborn. Mule-headed. Set in his ways. Entirely profligate with the rules of their job. Arrogant. Foul-mouthed. At times, utterly juvenile. Entirely too indiscriminate with his bedroom habits…but also kind. Empathetic. Charismatic. Intelligent. Intuitive. Deeply honorable, albeit by his own code. Brave. Proud. Dedicated. Loyal. Sweet, in his own strange and small ways.'
“Pet peeve.” “Other than your every waking moment?” “Ouch.”
“If you thought I would reject that part of you… No. I won’t. I may not have the experience to understand…but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…Hold on to me. It’s okay.”
“You’re confusing and complex and completely fucking enthralling, and every time I think I know you, you completely turn me around.” “But you do know me. Better than anyone has in a very long time.”
“I just really, really want to kiss you.” “Why?” “Because I’m high on the fact that I can.”
“I’m very tired, Seong-Jae. I feel older than I even am. I just…don’t have the energy to shape my life around someone else for a serious commitment anymore, let alone around multiple someone elses. But you’re worth finding that energy. You give me that energy. It’s worth making the effort with you, when I wasn’t even interested in trying before.”
“I would like to remind you that the more you mention your ex-wife, the more frequently I threaten to murder you.” “Thought you said you weren’t jealous.” “I lied,”
"I had your back as your partner…but I want everyone to know just how bad I will fuck them up if they touch my boyfriend.”
“Tell me to stop…or tell me you want me.” “I do not want you. I need you.”
Triggers:
Death, Murder, Graphic Horrific Details, Swearing, Religious Bigotry, Cults, Grooming, Sexual Content, Injury, Gore, Toxic Relationships, etc.
___________________________________
04/04/23 -
Let the obsession continue!! Mal&SJ supremacy! 🙌
BR with my bestie, lila!! 💗
Thoughts:
Nothing can ruin the high I am on after reading this book!! My heart is soaring after every. single. adorable. moment.
What we get
-B.A.N.T.E.R. (it never fails)
-Softies being soft
-STEAMY STEAMY SCENES! (with bedroom commands and biting - HALP!)
-Kiss demonstrations
-Walls being dropped with open communication
-“I’m just not in the mood for dead bodies right now when I’m more interested in the very live one in my bed.”
-Swoon worthy dialogue
-“Will you stay with me?” “Yes”
-Lullabies
-A glimpse into a side ship again
-A rescue scene
-Growth and development
-Fluff galore!!!
The case in this one is very background with the main focus of Malcolm and Seong-Jae finally being in their little happy bubble while figuring out how this is going to work between personal and professional worlds.
The deep dive into demisexuality & asexuality and the ins and outs and miscommunication of it was one of my favorite topics (on top of switches)!! I also loved the discussion on boundaries because it is very necessary. The healthy discovery into their relationship is everything!
I could write sonnets about Cole McCade’s writing. It is beautifully descriptive, but never overly!
Another wonderful addition to the Criminal Intentions series. Scared and eager to be ruined by what is to come with my bestie, lila, who is reading this with me!
Would I recommend this and to who:
Crime junkies and slow burn romance lovers
Paperback/Hardcover/Audiobook/E-book:
Good and faithful KU E-book!
How did I discover this:
LILA! And now we are buddy reading the series! Dreams do come true! 🥰
Pace:
Fast
POV:
Multi - Malcolm and Seong-Jae primarily
Quotes: I had so many more quotes to add but I know there is a limit! *SPOILERS*
“If you keep that up, you’re going to get pinned again.” “Is that meant to be a threat?” “Closer to a promise.”
“You should have warned me you were a biter. Be careful. I bite back.” “God, I hope so,”
'Malcolm was his partner. His subordinate. Ten years his senior. Infuriating. Insufferable. Annoying. Stubborn. Mule-headed. Set in his ways. Entirely profligate with the rules of their job. Arrogant. Foul-mouthed. At times, utterly juvenile. Entirely too indiscriminate with his bedroom habits…but also kind. Empathetic. Charismatic. Intelligent. Intuitive. Deeply honorable, albeit by his own code. Brave. Proud. Dedicated. Loyal. Sweet, in his own strange and small ways.'
“Pet peeve.” “Other than your every waking moment?” “Ouch.”
“If you thought I would reject that part of you… No. I won’t. I may not have the experience to understand…but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…Hold on to me. It’s okay.”
“You’re confusing and complex and completely fucking enthralling, and every time I think I know you, you completely turn me around.” “But you do know me. Better than anyone has in a very long time.”
“I just really, really want to kiss you.” “Why?” “Because I’m high on the fact that I can.”
“I’m very tired, Seong-Jae. I feel older than I even am. I just…don’t have the energy to shape my life around someone else for a serious commitment anymore, let alone around multiple someone elses. But you’re worth finding that energy. You give me that energy. It’s worth making the effort with you, when I wasn’t even interested in trying before.”
“I would like to remind you that the more you mention your ex-wife, the more frequently I threaten to murder you.” “Thought you said you weren’t jealous.” “I lied,”
"I had your back as your partner…but I want everyone to know just how bad I will fuck them up if they touch my boyfriend.”
“Tell me to stop…or tell me you want me.” “I do not want you. I need you.”
Triggers:
Death, Murder, Graphic Horrific Details, Swearing, Religious Bigotry, Cults, Grooming, Sexual Content, Injury, Gore, Toxic Relationships, etc.
___________________________________
04/04/23 -
Let the obsession continue!! Mal&SJ supremacy! 🙌
BR with my bestie, lila!! 💗
February 7, 2025
I highlighted the shit out of this, oh my ... what a heavenly beautiful and dark story.
The story, the case and the little glimpses into Seong-Jae’s past are oh so wonderful and scary at the same time.
Love me some psyco-sociopaths. I know this is going to be disastrous, but at this point I have to admit that I like the villain.
That aside, this book focuses heavily on the sparked romance and my goodness.... puuuhhhh, these two are just blazing.
Seong-Jae’s fingertips strayed lower, following the coarse, narrow trail of hair toward the open waist of Malcolm’s slacks; Malcolm lifted his hips, hissing through his teeth. “Ah. Getting curious now?”
“Someone was holding me down so I could not touch him.” 🤤🤤🤤 (Oh yes, there is much more and more treats in this book, but you'll have to read it for yourself.)
“I have feelings for you, Seong-Jae. I’m not sure what they are. It’s complicated and new and kind of snuck up on me and blindsided me to make me pay attention to it, but…it’s there.” Searching blue eyes captured him, held him, asked him so many things. “And…I’d like to figure them out, if you think you could feel anything for me.”
Too blunt. Malcolm always had to be so irritatingly blunt, enough to take Seong-Jae’s breath away and leave his heart stumbling. 🫠🖤🫠🖤🫠🖤🫠
And for all triggers, and there are quite a few, please read the foreword ...
The story, the case and the little glimpses into Seong-Jae’s past are oh so wonderful and scary at the same time.
Love me some psyco-sociopaths. I know this is going to be disastrous, but at this point I have to admit that I like the villain.
That aside, this book focuses heavily on the sparked romance and my goodness.... puuuhhhh, these two are just blazing.
Seong-Jae’s fingertips strayed lower, following the coarse, narrow trail of hair toward the open waist of Malcolm’s slacks; Malcolm lifted his hips, hissing through his teeth. “Ah. Getting curious now?”
“Someone was holding me down so I could not touch him.” 🤤🤤🤤 (Oh yes, there is much more and more treats in this book, but you'll have to read it for yourself.)
“I have feelings for you, Seong-Jae. I’m not sure what they are. It’s complicated and new and kind of snuck up on me and blindsided me to make me pay attention to it, but…it’s there.” Searching blue eyes captured him, held him, asked him so many things. “And…I’d like to figure them out, if you think you could feel anything for me.”
Too blunt. Malcolm always had to be so irritatingly blunt, enough to take Seong-Jae’s breath away and leave his heart stumbling. 🫠🖤🫠🖤🫠🖤🫠
And for all triggers, and there are quite a few, please read the foreword ...
August 29, 2025
WHEN YOUR BOYFRIENDS FINALLY BECOME BOYFRIENDSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!
I won't lie, this was probably the weakest book for me so far, and i'm hoping and praying it's not just because I love a slow burn and the chase....... and now that we are here....... and they are finally boyfriends......... DO NOT LOSE INTEREST BRAIN OR I WILL FIGHT YOU.........
But also, this book just felt like a horny filler episode of your fave show? And maybe that's why it's been my least fave. I actually like the cop/mystery/suspense parts of this series so far, and this case was just kinda meh.
There was also some........ questionable decisions made considering our MC babies are VERY QUALIFIED detectives.... I'd like to stay delulu about it, but it was lowkey stupid, and I think the only reason the scene existed, was to show how strong you can be when you have......... ✨the power of love✨ lol.
Anywayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Still 10/10.
Who doesn't love a horny filler episode anyway?
The way these two CAN'T KEEP THEIR FILTHY LIL PAWS OFF EACHOTHER NOW??????????
Seongjae going from... I need emotional connection to fuck, TO FUCK FUCK FUCKKKKKKKKKKING 🥵🥵🥵
I won't lie, this was probably the weakest book for me so far, and i'm hoping and praying it's not just because I love a slow burn and the chase....... and now that we are here....... and they are finally boyfriends......... DO NOT LOSE INTEREST BRAIN OR I WILL FIGHT YOU.........
But also, this book just felt like a horny filler episode of your fave show? And maybe that's why it's been my least fave. I actually like the cop/mystery/suspense parts of this series so far, and this case was just kinda meh.
There was also some........ questionable decisions made considering our MC babies are VERY QUALIFIED detectives.... I'd like to stay delulu about it, but it was lowkey stupid, and I think the only reason the scene existed, was to show how strong you can be when you have......... ✨the power of love✨ lol.
Anywayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy. Still 10/10.
Who doesn't love a horny filler episode anyway?
The way these two CAN'T KEEP THEIR FILTHY LIL PAWS OFF EACHOTHER NOW??????????
Seongjae going from... I need emotional connection to fuck, TO FUCK FUCK FUCKKKKKKKKKKING 🥵🥵🥵
![Profile Image for moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645500038i%2F37448930._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
September 14, 2021
blessing y'all with my fav Seongjae x Malcolm moments:
↠ "If you thought I would reject that part of you..." Malcolm's hold tightened, and he rested his brow to the back of Seong-Jae's neck, warm breaths and tangled hair slithering over his skin, down his spine. "No. I won't. I may not have the experience to understand...but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to..." He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. "Hold on to me. It's okay."
↠ Malcolm sighed, but a warm, almost tender smile lingered on his lips. "I'm very tired, Seong-Jae. I feel older than I even am. I just...don't have the energy to shape my life around someone else for a serious commitment anymore, let alone around multiple someone elses." He shook his head. "But you're worth finding that energy. You give me that energy. It's worth making the effort with you, when I wasn't even interested in trying before." He caught Seong-Jae's chin, holding him firmly between thumb and forefinger, until Seong-Jae couldn't look away from that intense gaze if he wanted to. "Is that clear enough?"
↠ "Fuck," he gasped out. "Fuck!"
"Malcolm...Malcolm." Seong-Jae clutched him tight, pulling him in close, his voice shaking as he buried his face against Malcolm's hair. "I am your partner too," he whispered. "And I will not let you fall, either."
I SWEAR, THESE TWO. just take my heart already. i knew the slow burn would be worth it once they finally got together and omff, this was worth every tension, every glance, small touches and longing bc their cute as hell moments and conversations in this? chefs kiss. i loved it whenever Malcolm would be blunt and straightforward towards SJ and SJ blushes and insults him in return. i thought it was cute bc he's not used to affection but you can clearly tell he feels just as much for Malcolm as Malcolm does for him. ♡
also, yikes. that ending. Sila gives me the creeps, but im intrigued by him at the same time. 😭 however, im gonna fight him if he causes trouble for my bbs Malcolm and SJ. leave them alone with their happiness, pls thank u.
↠ "If you thought I would reject that part of you..." Malcolm's hold tightened, and he rested his brow to the back of Seong-Jae's neck, warm breaths and tangled hair slithering over his skin, down his spine. "No. I won't. I may not have the experience to understand...but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to..." He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. "Hold on to me. It's okay."
↠ Malcolm sighed, but a warm, almost tender smile lingered on his lips. "I'm very tired, Seong-Jae. I feel older than I even am. I just...don't have the energy to shape my life around someone else for a serious commitment anymore, let alone around multiple someone elses." He shook his head. "But you're worth finding that energy. You give me that energy. It's worth making the effort with you, when I wasn't even interested in trying before." He caught Seong-Jae's chin, holding him firmly between thumb and forefinger, until Seong-Jae couldn't look away from that intense gaze if he wanted to. "Is that clear enough?"
↠ "Fuck," he gasped out. "Fuck!"
"Malcolm...Malcolm." Seong-Jae clutched him tight, pulling him in close, his voice shaking as he buried his face against Malcolm's hair. "I am your partner too," he whispered. "And I will not let you fall, either."
I SWEAR, THESE TWO. just take my heart already. i knew the slow burn would be worth it once they finally got together and omff, this was worth every tension, every glance, small touches and longing bc their cute as hell moments and conversations in this? chefs kiss. i loved it whenever Malcolm would be blunt and straightforward towards SJ and SJ blushes and insults him in return. i thought it was cute bc he's not used to affection but you can clearly tell he feels just as much for Malcolm as Malcolm does for him. ♡
also, yikes. that ending. Sila gives me the creeps, but im intrigued by him at the same time. 😭 however, im gonna fight him if he causes trouble for my bbs Malcolm and SJ. leave them alone with their happiness, pls thank u.
July 23, 2021
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Better*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Okay I have to admit, the first chapter was adorable. I really liked Mal and Seong-Jae's scenes this time around. They were finally getting somewhere. Admitting things and doing things. I liked it. Now here's one thing that is bothering me a bit; the timeline. While each book feels like a month has gone buy, the reality is that it's probably just one (+-) week for each book. Meaning Mal and Seong-Jae has only known each other for... 6-8 weeks. So I was expecting slow-burn slow-burn and in my mind it is correct but then I stare at the facts...
It's really not that slow-burn, because the timeline is short, yet it still feel like a slow-burn simply because of how in my mind, each book is about one month, if that makes sense? In a way, when you look at the facts that Mal and Seong-Jae has only know each other for those weeks, it kinda feels too fast for how deep they already feels. Now, this can be because I myself has never been in love and have no idea how it feels or how fast it is to feel love. But then again, it feels like they've known each other for months. Did any of that makes sense? I'm rambling.
That said, this book is much better than, say, book one. I like the split between the cases and the relationship. It now has a good balance. I LOVE that Mal is protective of Seong-Jae and isn't afraid to show it. I also liked that the book didn't feel overly long either. But, - yes of course it has to be a but - I'm not looking forward to the Sila part. I really am not.
The Characters:
The list is a bit long so I've put it in a spoilers tag.
Malcolm was his partner. His subordinate. Ten years his senior. Infuriating. Insufferable. Annoying. Stubborn. Mule-headed. Set in his ways. Entirely profligate with the rules of their job. Arrogant. Foul-mouthed. At times, utterly juvenile. Entirely too indiscriminate with his bedroom habits…but also kind. Empathetic. Charismatic. Intelligent. Intuitive. Deeply honorable, albeit by his own code. Brave. Proud. Dedicated. Loyal. Sweet, in his own strange and small ways.
And the only one who had taken the time to try to ask who Seong-Jae was, and not only accepted the answers…but tried to make room for him, and it was so new and strange that Seong-Jae neither knew how to deal with it or knew what to say to it.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary (Slow-Burn)
Series: - Series, Book Seven.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
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? - Unsure..
Rating - 3.5/3 stars.
January 13, 2025
"I'm your partner," Malcolm whispered fervently. "I want to be more than that to you, but..." He clutched at Seong-Jae so hard, as if he could anchor him enough to keep him from tumbling down into the dark that waited in the back of his mind, always. "I'm your partner. I won't let you fall."
Okay. Listen. Are you listening? Sweet. My absolute favorite couple is and always will be Neil and Andrew. That's not going to change.
BUT.
Seong-Jae Yoon and Malcolm Khalaji? Right. Behind. Them. 😳😳
I love how, after tumbling into bed together (fucking FINALLY 😩 pun intended), they don't pull away, don't pretend nothing happened. They have honest conversations, and Seong-Jae opens up about an important part of his past that any partner should know, getting into a new relationship. God I adore this man to bits, you have no idea. And right then they also discuss more Seong-Jae's sexuality and what it possibly means for them, establishing boundaries... Can this be even more perfect? No?? Thought so. 🤭
...that doesn't mean there aren't secrets between them. Possibly very deadly secrets (still looking at you Seong-Jae, this is going to bite you in the ass so hard... you and Malcolm both). Because Sila is this omnipresent psychopathic fae-child and a master manipulator and I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop because you KNOW it's going to. And you know what? I'm dreading it but also... I'm fearfully excited because his presence promises a grand explosion.
Another thing - at the end of every book, there's not only a QA section which is mostly interesting and fun to read, but also a gem called afterword. In most books, I skip these. DON'T do that with Cole McCade. It's precisely the words and thoughts and heart he puts into his afterwords that make him an incredibly beautiful human being in my eyes. It would be such a shame to rob yourself of that ❤️
Okay. Listen. Are you listening? Sweet. My absolute favorite couple is and always will be Neil and Andrew. That's not going to change.
BUT.
Seong-Jae Yoon and Malcolm Khalaji? Right. Behind. Them. 😳😳
I love how, after tumbling into bed together (fucking FINALLY 😩 pun intended), they don't pull away, don't pretend nothing happened. They have honest conversations, and Seong-Jae opens up about an important part of his past that any partner should know, getting into a new relationship. God I adore this man to bits, you have no idea. And right then they also discuss more Seong-Jae's sexuality and what it possibly means for them, establishing boundaries... Can this be even more perfect? No?? Thought so. 🤭
...that doesn't mean there aren't secrets between them. Possibly very deadly secrets (still looking at you Seong-Jae, this is going to bite you in the ass so hard... you and Malcolm both). Because Sila is this omnipresent psychopathic fae-child and a master manipulator and I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop because you KNOW it's going to. And you know what? I'm dreading it but also... I'm fearfully excited because his presence promises a grand explosion.
Another thing - at the end of every book, there's not only a QA section which is mostly interesting and fun to read, but also a gem called afterword. In most books, I skip these. DON'T do that with Cole McCade. It's precisely the words and thoughts and heart he puts into his afterwords that make him an incredibly beautiful human being in my eyes. It would be such a shame to rob yourself of that ❤️
May 13, 2021
Cult of Personality has one of the most disgusting, annoying, irritating character I’ve read. And they are TWO of them! Also, please excuse the lack of faith of this science girl, but I think he was so creepy:
“If God wishes me to procreate, He will gift unto me as He did unto Mary, and get with child that woman whom I choose as my partner. That child will be imbued with my essence, without the sin of fornication.”
“You think fornication is a sin?”
“It’s certainly not a clean act.” And a subtle edge entered Adam’s voice despite that persistently pleasant smile as he continued, “Are you sinners, detectives?”
“Repeatedly and with each other,” Malcolm retorded.
“Malcolm,” Seong-Jae hissed.
But you can always trust Malcom to save the day! You must be sick of me by now, but I love the way Cole McCade writes. It’s beautiful, romantic, full of feelings and so sexy!
“I’m your partner,” Malcolm whispered fervently. “I want to be more than that to you, but…” He clutched at Seong-jae so hard, as if he could anchor him enough to keep him from tumbling down into the dark what waited in the back of his mind. “I’m your partner. I won’t let you fall.”
“If God wishes me to procreate, He will gift unto me as He did unto Mary, and get with child that woman whom I choose as my partner. That child will be imbued with my essence, without the sin of fornication.”
“You think fornication is a sin?”
“It’s certainly not a clean act.” And a subtle edge entered Adam’s voice despite that persistently pleasant smile as he continued, “Are you sinners, detectives?”
“Repeatedly and with each other,” Malcolm retorded.
“Malcolm,” Seong-Jae hissed.
But you can always trust Malcom to save the day! You must be sick of me by now, but I love the way Cole McCade writes. It’s beautiful, romantic, full of feelings and so sexy!
“I’m your partner,” Malcolm whispered fervently. “I want to be more than that to you, but…” He clutched at Seong-jae so hard, as if he could anchor him enough to keep him from tumbling down into the dark what waited in the back of his mind. “I’m your partner. I won’t let you fall.”
October 13, 2024
Reread #2
🫠❤️🔥🥹
Reread #1
Stay....
While the case in this one was ok.... I absolutely LOVED everything else about this book. And the rating is solely based on the relationship part of the book
SJ and M are talking, communicating! SJ is soilling secrets to M and it's heartbreakimg and heartwarmimg at the same time.
The cuddling....so sweet.
The kissing... these guys are ALWAYS kissing and they give no shit who sees them.
The PDA... Mal being a protective possesive boyfriend who will fuck up anyone who dares looks at SJ wrong. SWOON
The flirting... these guys are so in love it's nauseating....in a good way.
The sex...gawd the sex, though not overly descriptive but so emotional.
SJ is still salty and snappy and prickly and I ADORE him.
Mal is still the sweetest cinnamon roll and I Adore him too.
I STAN #MalJae
PS.... Sila you can fuck right off.
🫠❤️🔥🥹
Reread #1
Stay....
While the case in this one was ok.... I absolutely LOVED everything else about this book. And the rating is solely based on the relationship part of the book
SJ and M are talking, communicating! SJ is soilling secrets to M and it's heartbreakimg and heartwarmimg at the same time.
The cuddling....so sweet.
The kissing... these guys are ALWAYS kissing and they give no shit who sees them.
The PDA... Mal being a protective possesive boyfriend who will fuck up anyone who dares looks at SJ wrong. SWOON
The flirting... these guys are so in love it's nauseating....in a good way.
The sex...gawd the sex, though not overly descriptive but so emotional.
SJ is still salty and snappy and prickly and I ADORE him.
Mal is still the sweetest cinnamon roll and I Adore him too.
I STAN #MalJae
PS.... Sila you can fuck right off.
January 12, 2025
“If you thought I would reject that part of you…” Malcolm’s hold tightened, and he rested his brow to the back of Seong- Jae’s neck, warm breaths and tangled hair slithering over his skin, down his spine. “No. I won’t. I may not have the experience to understand… but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…” He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong- Jae barely held back from echoing. “Hold on to me. It’s okay.”
I am dying. These two are beyond fucking adorable. I loved that this book picked up immediately following book six so we got to see some afterglow and an honest conversation where both Seong-Jae and Malcolm were open, honest and emotionally vulnerable and just spoke with each other. The discussion about boundaries and expectations of each other and a potential relationship was a joy to read.
I'm gonna puke my heart up.
I loved getting more of Seong-Jaes back story and getting that extra layer of understanding as to why he is as he is. Although I am desperately worried about what Sila is going to do next. Every time he pops out with his cryptic shit about black cats or dragonflies I feel myself clench up lol. I recognise that every book I read gets me one step closer to the conversation where Malcolm finds out who Sila is and the whole scope of that particular cluster fuck comes out.
The investigations continue to be fairly simple but still very interesting. I really enjoyed the one in this book and like how they are tying previous villains in still and not just forgetting them once they're solved.
It may not need repeating but these two continue to have the most explosive chemistry together 🥵 (as I mentioned in my review of book two, Malcolm knows how to Fuck with a capital F- good for you Seong-Jae).
“Shall we explore further?”
“If someone comes out with a chainsaw, I’m running.”
“If someone comes out with a chainsaw,” Seong- Jae retorted blandly, “I am tripping you.”
“… so you’re still mad at me for getting too rough.”
“Malcolm,” Seong- Jae said, gliding past him and brushing his arm with a challenging sidelong look, “you have not even begun to fathom what could be too rough for me.”
I am dying. These two are beyond fucking adorable. I loved that this book picked up immediately following book six so we got to see some afterglow and an honest conversation where both Seong-Jae and Malcolm were open, honest and emotionally vulnerable and just spoke with each other. The discussion about boundaries and expectations of each other and a potential relationship was a joy to read.
I'm gonna puke my heart up.
I loved getting more of Seong-Jaes back story and getting that extra layer of understanding as to why he is as he is. Although I am desperately worried about what Sila is going to do next. Every time he pops out with his cryptic shit about black cats or dragonflies I feel myself clench up lol. I recognise that every book I read gets me one step closer to the conversation where Malcolm finds out who Sila is and the whole scope of that particular cluster fuck comes out.
The investigations continue to be fairly simple but still very interesting. I really enjoyed the one in this book and like how they are tying previous villains in still and not just forgetting them once they're solved.
It may not need repeating but these two continue to have the most explosive chemistry together 🥵 (as I mentioned in my review of book two, Malcolm knows how to Fuck with a capital F- good for you Seong-Jae).
“Shall we explore further?”
“If someone comes out with a chainsaw, I’m running.”
“If someone comes out with a chainsaw,” Seong- Jae retorted blandly, “I am tripping you.”
“… so you’re still mad at me for getting too rough.”
“Malcolm,” Seong- Jae said, gliding past him and brushing his arm with a challenging sidelong look, “you have not even begun to fathom what could be too rough for me.”
October 31, 2023
4.5/5
The review contains spoilers!
This series keeps getting better and better with every book, and my love for Seong-Jae and Malcolm just keeps growing and growing. Like seriously, this two idiots might kill me someday with how cute and affectionate they are.
Seong-Jae still keeps secrets from Malcolm that Malcolm knows he had, and I hope Silas won’t mess anything up between them. I’m pretty scared of this guy, he is a psycho and he works in Gabi’s new workplace? I know it will fuck up some things in the future.
Some of my favorite scenes (as always):
Seong-Jae sings? And it’s a Lady Gaga song? God he is the cutest.
The bickering is a perfection, as always.
Malcolm is going to be the best boyfriend, I know that.
This series is pretty long and they are already in a relationship, even though it’s only a beginning and they still don’t know everything about each other, but I’m pretty anxious because it’s only a 7 book from 28 in the series (at least for now). I hope nothing will happen in the next books for them. They deserve everything and more.
The review contains spoilers!
This series keeps getting better and better with every book, and my love for Seong-Jae and Malcolm just keeps growing and growing. Like seriously, this two idiots might kill me someday with how cute and affectionate they are.
Seong-Jae still keeps secrets from Malcolm that Malcolm knows he had, and I hope Silas won’t mess anything up between them. I’m pretty scared of this guy, he is a psycho and he works in Gabi’s new workplace? I know it will fuck up some things in the future.
Some of my favorite scenes (as always):
“It is Lady Gaga,” Seong-Jae huffed in offended tones, and Malcolm had to bite his tongue to keep from bursting out laughing and possibly getting smacked for it.
“You are so, so gay.”
“Yes, I am.” Seong-Jae scowled at him. “Is that a problem?”
“Not at all,” Malcolm said—then leaned up to brush his lips to Seong-Jae’s."
Seong-Jae sings? And it’s a Lady Gaga song? God he is the cutest.
“…and you’re blushing,” he finished. “You’re blushing.” Narrowed eyes flung him a deadly look.
“Malcolm?”
“Yeah?”
“Shut up."
“Are you sinners, detectives?”
“Repeatedly and with each other,” Malcolm retorted. “Malcolm,” Seong-Jae hissed. Malcolm would apologize later."
The bickering is a perfection, as always.
“I’ll be good,” Malcolm promised. “I just really, really want to kiss you.”
“Why?”
“Because.” Malcolm grinned. “I’m high on the fact that I can.” Seong-Jae looked roughly two seconds away from biting him."
“Someone’s going to start shit with you sooner or later, Seong-Jae. I had your back as your partner…but I want everyone to know just how bad I will fuck them up if they touch my boyfriend.”
Malcolm is going to be the best boyfriend, I know that.
This series is pretty long and they are already in a relationship, even though it’s only a beginning and they still don’t know everything about each other, but I’m pretty anxious because it’s only a 7 book from 28 in the series (at least for now). I hope nothing will happen in the next books for them. They deserve everything and more.
February 27, 2019
Every time when I think this series can't possibly push me further emotionally ... Cole McCade does just that.
I wasn't sure what to expect after what happened in S1, ep6, chapter 13.
But then we get chapter 2!
And OMG, OMFG. OMG.
Malcolm and Seong-Jae actually acknowledge their feelings. They actually talk to each other (at least a bit) about their feelings. And their relationship starts blossoming.
Malcolm:
He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart ... Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep. A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way.
Seong-Jae surrendered a battle he had not realized he was fighting, until he was willing to give himself up so completely to pleasure, to sensation, to touch. To Malcolm.
Malcolm:"It just gets me more and more fucked up over you."
Seong-Jae took a shaky breath. "I want that. I want you to feel that way."
"Why?"
"So I know it is not just me."
Now, all this really inspired to find my own cast. Not sure whether this will be the final version, but here we go...
So all this sounds very lovely, but of course (this being an episode mid-season) it is not going to stay like this, is it?
And that last chapter certainly rattles wildly at the tender bond Malcolm and Seong-Jae have been building. Darn, Sila creeps me out so much. I barely could read that last chapter. It's one to cause nightmares. To say I am worried what he has in store for my two guys (I do love them equally, I really do!), is an understatement.
I know I keep repeating myself here like a stuck record, but this series has been absolutely awesome so far. Every single episode offers twists and turns and so many emotions I can hardly breathe.
If you haven't tried it yet ... I highly recommend it.
I wasn't sure what to expect after what happened in S1, ep6, chapter 13.
But then we get chapter 2!
And OMG, OMFG. OMG.
Malcolm and Seong-Jae actually acknowledge their feelings. They actually talk to each other (at least a bit) about their feelings. And their relationship starts blossoming.
Malcolm:
He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart ... Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep. A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way.
Seong-Jae surrendered a battle he had not realized he was fighting, until he was willing to give himself up so completely to pleasure, to sensation, to touch. To Malcolm.
Malcolm:"It just gets me more and more fucked up over you."
Seong-Jae took a shaky breath. "I want that. I want you to feel that way."
"Why?"
"So I know it is not just me."
Now, all this really inspired to find my own cast. Not sure whether this will be the final version, but here we go...
So all this sounds very lovely, but of course (this being an episode mid-season) it is not going to stay like this, is it?
And that last chapter certainly rattles wildly at the tender bond Malcolm and Seong-Jae have been building. Darn, Sila creeps me out so much. I barely could read that last chapter. It's one to cause nightmares. To say I am worried what he has in store for my two guys (I do love them equally, I really do!), is an understatement.
I know I keep repeating myself here like a stuck record, but this series has been absolutely awesome so far. Every single episode offers twists and turns and so many emotions I can hardly breathe.
If you haven't tried it yet ... I highly recommend it.
January 12, 2019
My Lord, I seriously might not survive these guys, they kill me in the best way. *sigh*
Though everything between them feels new and tender (unless it’s blisteringly hot), at least neither Malcolm and Seong-Jae are no longer in denial with each other.
And while I’m ecstatic that this is so, I’m also terrified, because I have to wonder how long *and deep* a game Sila is playing. The only thing that keeps me hopeful is that Mal & Seong-Jae are damn good at what they do and plenty capable at taking care of themselves.
It’s just that there are other ways of hurting them. :(
I am so freaking invested in these guys and Cole McCade is doing an outstanding job at keeping them real to me. The cases are interesting *though this one made my skin crawl a bit* and the building of their work relationship and partnership is as compelling as their personal one.
It sure is a loooong time til February 10th.
Though everything between them feels new and tender (unless it’s blisteringly hot), at least neither Malcolm and Seong-Jae are no longer in denial with each other.
And while I’m ecstatic that this is so, I’m also terrified, because I have to wonder how long *and deep* a game Sila is playing. The only thing that keeps me hopeful is that Mal & Seong-Jae are damn good at what they do and plenty capable at taking care of themselves.
It’s just that there are other ways of hurting them. :(
I am so freaking invested in these guys and Cole McCade is doing an outstanding job at keeping them real to me. The cases are interesting *though this one made my skin crawl a bit* and the building of their work relationship and partnership is as compelling as their personal one.
It sure is a loooong time til February 10th.
March 8, 2019
It’s the dawn of a new era for Malcolm and Seong-Jae as the romantic line has well and truly been crossed, but not at the expense of another case to crack.
Sometimes the quiet cases ache the most...”
This case unearths some strong feelings, particularly for Yoon, but for all the more emotionally charged scenes there are those which lift it by injecting humour and sexiness in all the right places. And all that build up to this point in the series? Worth every page.
Seven books in and my love for this series and these men is showing no sign of waning with Cult of Personality seeing me literally plonking my arse down and guzzling it in one sitting. And with moments that will leave your heart melting and others seeing it stop beating momentarily, it’s a rollercoaster I recommend riding.
I’m just not in the mood for dead bodies right now when I’m more interested in the very live one in my bed.”
Sometimes the quiet cases ache the most...”
This case unearths some strong feelings, particularly for Yoon, but for all the more emotionally charged scenes there are those which lift it by injecting humour and sexiness in all the right places. And all that build up to this point in the series? Worth every page.
Seven books in and my love for this series and these men is showing no sign of waning with Cult of Personality seeing me literally plonking my arse down and guzzling it in one sitting. And with moments that will leave your heart melting and others seeing it stop beating momentarily, it’s a rollercoaster I recommend riding.
I’m just not in the mood for dead bodies right now when I’m more interested in the very live one in my bed.”
June 13, 2021
Death should never be exciting. But the sheer mundane flatness of it, the anticlimactic ending to it… It disrespects the enormity of the lives lost. 🖤💔🥵🙈🥰
January 31, 2025
All the things I loved about this:
- the ace spectrum discussions and how this works for their dynamic, perfect! Beautiful! Most relatable ace/demi rep I’ve read.
- The book starting immediately after the last one, with the aftermath of them finally getting together and all their adorable bond forming
- Mal’s support when SJ reveals a major part of his history
- Their ridiculous, hilarious banter
- SJ admitting to his jealousy over Gabi
- How fucking sweet some of the little moments are! The blushing and SJ singing, I hate corny shit but I loved the tender, swoony moments between them.
- I’m not normally a big highlighter of book quotes but there was so many great parts here I went a bit crazy
Malcolm didn’t know how he kept a straight face. “…Scott, huh.” “Murder you in your sleep,” Seong-Jae hissed under his breath.
Murder is clearly Seong-Jae’s love language
“I would like to remind you that the more you mention your ex-wife, the more frequently I threaten to murder you.” “Thought you said you weren’t jealous.” “I lied,” Seong-Jae retorted, and pushed past him to shove the door open.
“If you thought I would reject that part of you…” Malcolm’s hold tightened, and he rested his brow to the back of Seong-Jae’s neck, warm breaths and tangled hair slithering over his skin, down his spine. “No. I won’t. I may not have the experience to understand…but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…” He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. “Hold on to me. It’s okay.
As always, I find the authors notes in the end of the book particularly touching and insightful.
- the ace spectrum discussions and how this works for their dynamic, perfect! Beautiful! Most relatable ace/demi rep I’ve read.
- The book starting immediately after the last one, with the aftermath of them finally getting together and all their adorable bond forming
- Mal’s support when SJ reveals a major part of his history
- Their ridiculous, hilarious banter
- SJ admitting to his jealousy over Gabi
- How fucking sweet some of the little moments are! The blushing and SJ singing, I hate corny shit but I loved the tender, swoony moments between them.
- I’m not normally a big highlighter of book quotes but there was so many great parts here I went a bit crazy
Malcolm didn’t know how he kept a straight face. “…Scott, huh.” “Murder you in your sleep,” Seong-Jae hissed under his breath.
Murder is clearly Seong-Jae’s love language
“I would like to remind you that the more you mention your ex-wife, the more frequently I threaten to murder you.” “Thought you said you weren’t jealous.” “I lied,” Seong-Jae retorted, and pushed past him to shove the door open.
“If you thought I would reject that part of you…” Malcolm’s hold tightened, and he rested his brow to the back of Seong-Jae’s neck, warm breaths and tangled hair slithering over his skin, down his spine. “No. I won’t. I may not have the experience to understand…but if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…” He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. “Hold on to me. It’s okay.
As always, I find the authors notes in the end of the book particularly touching and insightful.
June 23, 2021
Still hooked, still addicted and still 5 starring the heck out of this series. LOVE these two men so hard!
March 13, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
SILA SAT ON THE ROOF of Malcolm Khalaji’s building and let his bare feet dangle over the edge, swinging and swinging and swinging. If his legs were only six inches longer, they would see him: just a pair of heels and ten curled toes, swaying in the air over Malcolm’s window, playing peek-a-boo with the lovers like a little peeping tom.
Uhm, this X-chapter at the end with Sila’s POV really gave me the creeps. 😱
Never in a thousand years would he imagine that the cold, closed man he had met in that alley would ever open to him so thoroughly. Give himself so fully. Take Malcolm so completely.
And when Malcolm came, thrusting up into that arched, gracefully moving body…
He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart, to do so.
Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep.
A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way again. 🥹♥️
SILA SAT ON THE ROOF of Malcolm Khalaji’s building and let his bare feet dangle over the edge, swinging and swinging and swinging. If his legs were only six inches longer, they would see him: just a pair of heels and ten curled toes, swaying in the air over Malcolm’s window, playing peek-a-boo with the lovers like a little peeping tom.
Uhm, this X-chapter at the end with Sila’s POV really gave me the creeps. 😱
Never in a thousand years would he imagine that the cold, closed man he had met in that alley would ever open to him so thoroughly. Give himself so fully. Take Malcolm so completely.
And when Malcolm came, thrusting up into that arched, gracefully moving body…
He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart, to do so.
Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep.
A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way again. 🥹♥️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2021
The case was not very mysterious, but it did hold my attention. McCode writes a lot of themes on his murders, and he's very good at it.
OMG, these guys are so cute.
"But if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…” He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. "Hold on to me. It's okay."
They are just beginning and still have a lot to know, but they are willing to give it a try.
"He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart, to do so. Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep. A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way again."
Also, the last chapter☠️☠️.
OMG, these guys are so cute.
"But if you feel yourself slipping, if you need something to hold on to…” He made a rough, choking sound in the back of his throat, one Seong-Jae barely held back from echoing. "Hold on to me. It's okay."
They are just beginning and still have a lot to know, but they are willing to give it a try.
"He felt as though he ripped out a piece of his heart, to do so. Ripped out a piece of his heart and gave it to Seong-Jae to have, to hold, to keep. A piece that would belong to him forever, and would never fit inside Malcolm the same way again."
Also, the last chapter☠️☠️.
December 14, 2022
Currently (still) swooning over Mal and Seong-Jae being lovey-dovey and looking out for each otherrr 😫😍😍💗💗💗💗💗
Also I love Anjulie and Gabriella.
Also I love Anjulie and Gabriella.
April 6, 2020
I sort of said to myself I would take a wee break from this series and maybe read something else, but as the story progresses, I am so caught up in all that is going on ... the past, the present, that I want to keep going see what the future brings.
Malcolm and Seong-Jae are moving forward with their "relationship". But there are things lurking in the shadows.
A crime committed, not as gruesome, to be sure, but still quite disturbing.
Who is Sila?
Sade? Not sure what to make of them!
Even Gabi ... has she some hidden agenda?
It's driving me batty. No wonder I have to continue ...
... and I will never be again.
Malcolm and Seong-Jae are moving forward with their "relationship". But there are things lurking in the shadows.
... neither Malcolm nor Seong-Jae are ready for the shadowed secrets that could shatter their tenuous new relationship, when a haunting presence seems to stalk them around every corner, watching their smallest move, baiting them and flirting just out of reach.
A crime committed, not as gruesome, to be sure, but still quite disturbing.
The tree had a bit more experience than the apple ...
Watching him was like watching a revolving carousel of masks ...
Who is Sila?
Sade? Not sure what to make of them!
Even Gabi ... has she some hidden agenda?
It's driving me batty. No wonder I have to continue ...
When all your Promises are Gone ...
June 14, 2021
omg boyfriends!!!!!!!!
January 14, 2019
Finally, finally, finally. That's how I feel reading this, and reading Seong-Jae and Malcolm's relationship in this. We finally get them together, and starting a relationship, and it is glorious!
This book picks up right after the end of the sixth book, and the first 20-ish percent of this is basically Seong-Jae and Malcolm in the afterglow of the sex they had, and them talking and facing what they did - and thankfully no running away or "lets pretend that never happened" happens. I'm getting tired of that in romance books so the opposite of that was really refreshing - and talking more in depth.
I have to say I was not expecting what Seong-Jae told Malcom. I thought Sila was just a messed up ex who was emotionally abusive - or maybe even physically abusive as well - but it's more than that. I won't spoil what that is, but it was huge that Seong-Jae shared what he did with Malcom (and no he still doesn't tell him about Sila, damn it! Argh. But they JUST start dating in this episode, so it's understandable that Seong-Jae isn't there yet) and let himself lean on Malcolm, who was offering to be leaned on.
It just makes me so happy and giddy how good these two are for each other. How understanding they both are, how sweet Malcolm is with Seong-Jae, how cute they are with each other. Seong-Jae is so stoic, yes, but with Malcolm he melts. Also their banter is as great and cute as ever.
This book was mostly furthering Seong-Jae and Malcom's relationship and focusing on it as they make the transition into being boyfriends and how that works, and the case is important in how it relates to Seong-Jae. Since we learn more about him and his past, and how it relates to Sila, the case is similar in some ways that hit way too close to home for Seong-Jae. It was interesting how that all tied together.
I also gotta say that I am loving the duo of Gabrielle and Anjulie. They're great friends, and the way Anjulie is there for Gabrielle while Gabrielle is making a transition in her life back to Baltimore (and getting over Malcolm) is wonderful.
ALSO! I am now
Also, that ending - not the good ending with Malcolm and Seong-Jae together (always love that) but the ending ending with Sila. UGH. He is so creepy and scary and I am scared for Malcom and Seong-Jae and our secondary characters, Gabrielle, Anjulie and Sade as well. Maybe even Jason Huang, who I don't think is as bad a guy as he seems.
But otherwise I absolutely loved this and I am reveling in the Seong-Jae and Malcolm goodness and I can't wait for more and already wish I didn't have to wait a whole month for the next installment. These two are so perfect together! I just want so much more of these two together. *happy sigh*
This book picks up right after the end of the sixth book, and the first 20-ish percent of this is basically Seong-Jae and Malcolm in the afterglow of the sex they had, and them talking and facing what they did - and thankfully no running away or "lets pretend that never happened" happens. I'm getting tired of that in romance books so the opposite of that was really refreshing - and talking more in depth.
I have to say I was not expecting what Seong-Jae told Malcom. I thought Sila was just a messed up ex who was emotionally abusive - or maybe even physically abusive as well - but it's more than that. I won't spoil what that is, but it was huge that Seong-Jae shared what he did with Malcom (and no he still doesn't tell him about Sila, damn it! Argh. But they JUST start dating in this episode, so it's understandable that Seong-Jae isn't there yet) and let himself lean on Malcolm, who was offering to be leaned on.
It just makes me so happy and giddy how good these two are for each other. How understanding they both are, how sweet Malcolm is with Seong-Jae, how cute they are with each other. Seong-Jae is so stoic, yes, but with Malcolm he melts. Also their banter is as great and cute as ever.
This book was mostly furthering Seong-Jae and Malcom's relationship and focusing on it as they make the transition into being boyfriends and how that works, and the case is important in how it relates to Seong-Jae. Since we learn more about him and his past, and how it relates to Sila, the case is similar in some ways that hit way too close to home for Seong-Jae. It was interesting how that all tied together.
I also gotta say that I am loving the duo of Gabrielle and Anjulie. They're great friends, and the way Anjulie is there for Gabrielle while Gabrielle is making a transition in her life back to Baltimore (and getting over Malcolm) is wonderful.
ALSO! I am now
Also, that ending - not the good ending with Malcolm and Seong-Jae together (always love that) but the ending ending with Sila. UGH. He is so creepy and scary and I am scared for Malcom and Seong-Jae and our secondary characters, Gabrielle, Anjulie and Sade as well. Maybe even Jason Huang, who I don't think is as bad a guy as he seems.
But otherwise I absolutely loved this and I am reveling in the Seong-Jae and Malcolm goodness and I can't wait for more and already wish I didn't have to wait a whole month for the next installment. These two are so perfect together! I just want so much more of these two together. *happy sigh*
January 12, 2019
This book is crazy good! I didn't want it to end! Seong-Jae and Malcolm are together, and it's so intense and passionate between them but also sweet and adorable. Seong-Jae finally opens up about some of his past, the moment is so touching and the support Malcolm gives him makes me love him even more. There are now casual touches, spontaneous kisses and the sense of belonging and intimacy. They are funny and cute then sexy and hot and it is such a rush to finally see them together - like coming home! Awesome!
This time the case has a mental impact on Seong-Jae, and we get a glimpse into the dark secret he keeps, and frankly speaking it is fascinating to get just a peek. It keeps me guessing and involved with the characters and the story. The amount of depravity people are ready to inflict on others for the sake of their beliefs is astounding. But the best part in the investigation is how Malcolm and Seong-Jae work together, how in tune they are. No matter the case they will dig out the truth using their mind, intuition and experience to uncover the worst of humanity's deeds.
This book is sweet, smart and sensual. It leaves you satisfied while still guessing. So worth the wait and now I am hungry for more! #MalcolmSeong-JaeTeam
** ARC received through Booksprout for my honest review **
This time the case has a mental impact on Seong-Jae, and we get a glimpse into the dark secret he keeps, and frankly speaking it is fascinating to get just a peek. It keeps me guessing and involved with the characters and the story. The amount of depravity people are ready to inflict on others for the sake of their beliefs is astounding. But the best part in the investigation is how Malcolm and Seong-Jae work together, how in tune they are. No matter the case they will dig out the truth using their mind, intuition and experience to uncover the worst of humanity's deeds.
This book is sweet, smart and sensual. It leaves you satisfied while still guessing. So worth the wait and now I am hungry for more! #MalcolmSeong-JaeTeam
** ARC received through Booksprout for my honest review **
July 12, 2023
𝟬𝟰/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟬 ~ 𝟰.𝟱 ✩
𝟭𝟬/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭 ~ 𝟰.𝟮𝟱 ✩
Took me a whole hot minute to finish this one, but I am back on my rereading journey. Honestly, Malcolm and Seong-Jae have my whole-ass heart. Also, Seong-Jae calling Malcolm his boyfriend… Ahjlkjasldkflkrjjasd 😭👏✨
┍━━━━━✧✦━━━━━┑
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 ✩
┕━━━━━✧✦━━━━━┙
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
(first read -04/2020)
4.5 stars!
Cult of Personality is episode 7 and damn I am here for it!
I am loving the dynamic between Seong-Jae and Malcolm! I'm really liking how they idk COMMUNICATE!
Instead of using stupid miscommunication to add drama/tension McCade allows his characters to act naturally and react in ways that feels true to them. And honestly I am here for any and all scenes in which Seong-Jae emotes to anyone!
Like lets hug it out people!
I will say the only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is this case wasn't one of my favorites. While all of the cases are really interesting and inventive some of them have felt a bit less important than others. Although I have a feeling McCade will tie all the cases together somehow?!
*extra thoughts*
- Yay for Mal and Sade making up! I love Sade so much and it hurt me to see them shutting out Mal!
- Ummm Sila is freaking creepy and ugh every time his presence is felt I just want to drop kick him in the balls and keep him away from Seong-Jae! Like you will not mess with that mans happiness!
- all the woman characters! I'm liking how even the side characters especially the women are really badass and feel complex and deep. I find that sometimes in m/m romances authors go out of their way to paint the female characters in a not so flattering light. I'm happy to say that's not the case here!
- also is it me or does it feel like Seong-Jae is just the real MC of this series or past few episodes? I am so here for it either way!
ahh i am just loving this series!
𝟭𝟬/𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭 ~ 𝟰.𝟮𝟱 ✩
❝You actually like me,❞ he ventured, and Malcolm smiled, eyes crinkling at the corners.
❝Yeah. Yeah, I do.❞
❝Why?❞
❝If I tried to list the reasons, you’d punch me before I got to three.❞
❝I would not.❞
❝And blush.❞
Seong-Jae scowled, an irritated heat building underneath his cheeks. ❝I do not blush.❞
❝Keep telling yourself that.❞
Took me a whole hot minute to finish this one, but I am back on my rereading journey. Honestly, Malcolm and Seong-Jae have my whole-ass heart. Also, Seong-Jae calling Malcolm his boyfriend… Ahjlkjasldkflkrjjasd 😭👏✨
❝Then maybe…partners by day, dating by night?❞ And before Seong-Jae could even open his mouth, Malcolm laid one thick finger gently against his lips, silencing him. ❝Don’t. Don’t you dare point out that sometimes we have to work at night. I know you.❞
Seong-Jae narrowed his eyes. And promptly bit down on the tip of Malcolm’s finger.
Malcolm yelped, yanking back and shaking his hand with a burst of laughter. ❝Ow! What was that for?❞
❝You know what.❞
┍━━━━━✧✦━━━━━┑
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 ✩
┕━━━━━✧✦━━━━━┙
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
°
(first read -04/2020)
4.5 stars!
Cult of Personality is episode 7 and damn I am here for it!
I am loving the dynamic between Seong-Jae and Malcolm! I'm really liking how they idk COMMUNICATE!
Instead of using stupid miscommunication to add drama/tension McCade allows his characters to act naturally and react in ways that feels true to them. And honestly I am here for any and all scenes in which Seong-Jae emotes to anyone! Like lets hug it out people!
I will say the only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is this case wasn't one of my favorites. While all of the cases are really interesting and inventive some of them have felt a bit less important than others. Although I have a feeling McCade will tie all the cases together somehow?!
*extra thoughts*
- Yay for Mal and Sade making up! I love Sade so much and it hurt me to see them shutting out Mal!
- Ummm Sila is freaking creepy and ugh every time his presence is felt I just want to drop kick him in the balls and keep him away from Seong-Jae! Like you will not mess with that mans happiness!
- all the woman characters! I'm liking how even the side characters especially the women are really badass and feel complex and deep. I find that sometimes in m/m romances authors go out of their way to paint the female characters in a not so flattering light. I'm happy to say that's not the case here!
- also is it me or does it feel like Seong-Jae is just the real MC of this series or past few episodes? I am so here for it either way!
ahh i am just loving this series!
January 13, 2019
Detective Yoon:
Detective Khalaji
Oh God this book...all I wanted.
It starts where we left them in the last volume ...in Malcom's bed. I love this scene between these two. It was so real . I mean they are both lying next to each other and no one regrets. They are happy. Satisfied. And tired. But they talk, talk and talk. Yoon managed to confide one of his biggest secrets and Malcom's reaction ... unbelievable.
« Malcolm…”
“I’m your partner,” Malcolm whispered fervently. “I want to be more than that to you, but…” He clutched at Seong-Jae so hard, is if he could anchor him enough to keep him from tumbling down into the dark that waited in the back of his mind, always. “I’m your partner. I won’t let you fall. »
Malcom is one of the cutest things in this world. This big guy is everything. I love when he seeks contact with Yoon. And Yoon's reaction every time is too sweet.
« Hey,” he asked. “Before we have to go out there and be cops…can I kiss you?”
Seong-Jae eyed him. “That question is how tonight’s ill-advised escapade began.”
“I’ll be good,” Malcolm promised. “I just really, really want to kiss you.”
He didn’t recall it being this easy to make Seong-Jae blush, even if that scowl was back in full force, black and grouchy as ever. “Why?”
“Because.” Malcolm grinned. “I’m high on the fact that I can.”
Seong-Jae looked roughly two seconds away from biting him.
Before he caught Malcolm’s tie, wrapped it around his fist, and dragged him in to kiss him. »
The first part of this book is totally adorable BUT reality is never far away. And in their work this reality is just terrifying. The investigation itself was very interesting. A girl who disappears and who is found months later in an irreversible condition. It was just unbearable.
I really liked the arrest of the guilty but I must admit that it did not erase the bitter taste of all the lives he ruined.
I also loved seeing the girl from the previous book! Her strength, her courage was just amazing! She survived. His boyfriend too. Hope they will leave a long and good life together. My favorite book so far.
So. The relationship is slowly (but good) moving. There are just a lot of factors (people) around who are against it.
We learn a little more about Yoon's past. The one with the famous Sila.
This is totally how I picture Sila. Totally like that. His eyes are ...special. SO how can he be so awful?
I must admit that I still do not understand what could have happened between these two? Who is Sila? What does he want? His obsession for Yoon gets me. He's terrifying. The meeting with Gabrielle ... even I was freaked out! Who tells this kind of story? Really?
I hope he will not touch her (or Mal or Yoon or anybody in fact), I kind of like her now she's far from my Malcom.
Yoon: tell us more please!
Am I the only curious about Anjulie/Gabrielle relationship?
Love this.
Detective Khalaji
Oh God this book...all I wanted.
It starts where we left them in the last volume ...in Malcom's bed. I love this scene between these two. It was so real . I mean they are both lying next to each other and no one regrets. They are happy. Satisfied. And tired. But they talk, talk and talk. Yoon managed to confide one of his biggest secrets and Malcom's reaction ... unbelievable.
« Malcolm…”
“I’m your partner,” Malcolm whispered fervently. “I want to be more than that to you, but…” He clutched at Seong-Jae so hard, is if he could anchor him enough to keep him from tumbling down into the dark that waited in the back of his mind, always. “I’m your partner. I won’t let you fall. »
Malcom is one of the cutest things in this world. This big guy is everything. I love when he seeks contact with Yoon. And Yoon's reaction every time is too sweet.
« Hey,” he asked. “Before we have to go out there and be cops…can I kiss you?”
Seong-Jae eyed him. “That question is how tonight’s ill-advised escapade began.”
“I’ll be good,” Malcolm promised. “I just really, really want to kiss you.”
He didn’t recall it being this easy to make Seong-Jae blush, even if that scowl was back in full force, black and grouchy as ever. “Why?”
“Because.” Malcolm grinned. “I’m high on the fact that I can.”
Seong-Jae looked roughly two seconds away from biting him.
Before he caught Malcolm’s tie, wrapped it around his fist, and dragged him in to kiss him. »
The first part of this book is totally adorable BUT reality is never far away. And in their work this reality is just terrifying. The investigation itself was very interesting. A girl who disappears and who is found months later in an irreversible condition. It was just unbearable.
I really liked the arrest of the guilty but I must admit that it did not erase the bitter taste of all the lives he ruined.
I also loved seeing the girl from the previous book! Her strength, her courage was just amazing! She survived. His boyfriend too. Hope they will leave a long and good life together. My favorite book so far.
So. The relationship is slowly (but good) moving. There are just a lot of factors (people) around who are against it.
We learn a little more about Yoon's past. The one with the famous Sila.
This is totally how I picture Sila. Totally like that. His eyes are ...special. SO how can he be so awful? I must admit that I still do not understand what could have happened between these two? Who is Sila? What does he want? His obsession for Yoon gets me. He's terrifying. The meeting with Gabrielle ... even I was freaked out! Who tells this kind of story? Really?
I hope he will not touch her (or Mal or Yoon or anybody in fact), I kind of like her now she's far from my Malcom.
Yoon: tell us more please!
Am I the only curious about Anjulie/Gabrielle relationship?
Love this.
May 15, 2023
It's important to note that I jumped into this series at book 7 thanks to Libro.FM offering me a free download of Cult of Personality! This seems to be where the two leads are finally getting together physically and I'm sure if I had all the leadup from previous novellas it would have a greater impact. That said, I definitely liked this and if you're looking for a steamy romantic suspense series (with a bit of paranormal I think?) following two gay detectives, you should check this out. This installment was particularly interesting as they investigated a suspicious death possibly linked to a religious youth group that's very cult-like. It's definitely shorter than I would have preferred and the steam to plot ratio is a little bit high, but again that's probably because of all the leadup. It's a nice mix of larger plot arc elements with a sort of monster of the week story and a great relationship at the center of it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews