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Handled #2
Cleansed
Sometimes you have to go back in order to go forward – Gray is going back to handle the man who saw him as an angel, and unleashed the demon in him.
I am a Handler; I deal with serial killers, legally, ruthlessly, and in the presence of my Witness, because justice must be seen to be done.
Handling is an intimate procedure. I only perform for an audience of one; for my Witness, with his hot eyes and his innocent heart, and the pure white soul that I dirtied up so beautifully.
Now someone else is watching, the man who refined the monster in me. I can’t allow that to continue, particularly as he threatens the Witness who has caused the frozen lump in my chest that I laughingly refer to as a heart, to sporadically beat.
This isn’t about retribution; this is cleaning up the past so I have a chance at a future.
Cleansed is the second book in the Handled trilogy, it is a dark gay romance dealing with adult themes and contains graphic scenes that may upset some readers. Please heed the trigger warnings inside.
I am a Handler; I deal with serial killers, legally, ruthlessly, and in the presence of my Witness, because justice must be seen to be done.
Handling is an intimate procedure. I only perform for an audience of one; for my Witness, with his hot eyes and his innocent heart, and the pure white soul that I dirtied up so beautifully.
Now someone else is watching, the man who refined the monster in me. I can’t allow that to continue, particularly as he threatens the Witness who has caused the frozen lump in my chest that I laughingly refer to as a heart, to sporadically beat.
This isn’t about retribution; this is cleaning up the past so I have a chance at a future.
Cleansed is the second book in the Handled trilogy, it is a dark gay romance dealing with adult themes and contains graphic scenes that may upset some readers. Please heed the trigger warnings inside.
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First published November 27, 2020
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August 6, 2021Review removed due to plagiarism allegations.
September 3, 2022
Ya mas acostumbrados a sus intereacciones Nathan y Gray comienzan a darse cuenta que la relacion entre ellos va mucho mas alla de ser Handler-Witness y para Nathan de ser la "liberacion" de Gray, sino que comienzan realmente a interesarse y ha integrarse como amantes-amigos. Pero el pasado de Gray regreso para tomar venganza y esta vez Gray no esta dispuesto a esperar que otro Handler se ocupe del caso, sino que el mismo lo va a manejar. Pero para ir contra el hombre que lo secuestro tendra que "escapar" de la organizacion para la que ha estado "trabajando" durante los ultimos 20 años, y dejar a Nathan de lado. Sera que Gray podra abandonarlo todo por su venganza? Incluso a Nathan?
Ya conociendo el pasado de Gray, esperaba que el "malvado" fuera otro tipo, con mas poder, por eso me decepciono lo facil que fue encontrarlo, atraparlo y matarlo. Ademas, todo el libro era mas de las luchas morales de Nathan. Aqui la quimica de la pareja es casi inexistente, los dialogos son pobres, y la trama demasiado tonta.
Quizas fui yo, pero este libro me gusto menos que el anterior, con todo y que son menos paginas, se siente eterno. Hay demasiadas descripciones sin sentido, demasiadas auto-flagelaciones, y lo que son la accion y las escenas eroticas son demasiado simples (para mi punto de vista).
En fin, tengo curiosidad en ver que mas de esta pareja habia que explorar para que se pudieran publicar al menos 2 libros mas y un "puente" para un spin-off, asi que voy a continuar con esta serie, ya con muchas menos esperanzas que antes.
Ya conociendo el pasado de Gray, esperaba que el "malvado" fuera otro tipo, con mas poder, por eso me decepciono lo facil que fue encontrarlo, atraparlo y matarlo. Ademas, todo el libro era mas de las luchas morales de Nathan. Aqui la quimica de la pareja es casi inexistente, los dialogos son pobres, y la trama demasiado tonta.
Quizas fui yo, pero este libro me gusto menos que el anterior, con todo y que son menos paginas, se siente eterno. Hay demasiadas descripciones sin sentido, demasiadas auto-flagelaciones, y lo que son la accion y las escenas eroticas son demasiado simples (para mi punto de vista).
En fin, tengo curiosidad en ver que mas de esta pareja habia que explorar para que se pudieran publicar al menos 2 libros mas y un "puente" para un spin-off, asi que voy a continuar con esta serie, ya con muchas menos esperanzas que antes.
August 5, 2021
changing my rating because of plagiarism.
i suppose the overwhelming amount of editing mistakes and the whole angel backstory of grayson makes complete sense now, since this was plagiarised from a destiel fanfic from ao3. 🙄
https://mobile.twitter.com/kokomroily...
https://mobile.twitter.com/lotrspnfan...
i suppose the overwhelming amount of editing mistakes and the whole angel backstory of grayson makes complete sense now, since this was plagiarised from a destiel fanfic from ao3. 🙄
https://mobile.twitter.com/kokomroily...
https://mobile.twitter.com/lotrspnfan...
August 5, 2021
I guess the rest of the series is ugh...
Oh boy what a mess. Another plagiarism from Ao3
The Original post: https://archiveofourown.org/works/980...
See the twitter post from the real author Mayalaen:
https://twitter.com/Mayalaen/status/1...
Oh boy what a mess. Another plagiarism from Ao3
The Original post: https://archiveofourown.org/works/980...
See the twitter post from the real author Mayalaen:
https://twitter.com/Mayalaen/status/1...
December 28, 2020
"Asking for pain from Nathan feels freeing somehow, almost healing, but more than that - innocent."
I immensely enjoy this book, great world-building and really worth reading. This is such a good twisted love story. While the first book was mostly dark and intense, this one was romance, sweet, but with intense scenes as well. This was really interesting read especially we get to find out more about Gray's back story and my heart bleed for him, he endured a lot as a child and I was intrigued by how his character evolved as an individulual. What I really liked as well was Indigo's participation in this book, we get to see his character and not just Nathan's psychopath brother. I'm excited to dive right into the next book.
I immensely enjoy this book, great world-building and really worth reading. This is such a good twisted love story. While the first book was mostly dark and intense, this one was romance, sweet, but with intense scenes as well. This was really interesting read especially we get to find out more about Gray's back story and my heart bleed for him, he endured a lot as a child and I was intrigued by how his character evolved as an individulual. What I really liked as well was Indigo's participation in this book, we get to see his character and not just Nathan's psychopath brother. I'm excited to dive right into the next book.
December 7, 2020
So happy to report that the first book in this series was not an anomaly. The story picks up with Gray and Nathan recovering from their last ordeal and learning about their next. At this point, we have a pretty clear and vivid picture of what Gray endured as a child. So, when that person turns out to be the one watching Gray, in true Gray fashion, he decides to taunt said stalker in spectacular fashion. Unfortunately, he does this by somewhat using Nathan, who is none too happy about it when he finds out.
While Gray is not supposed to “handle” this case due to conflict in interest and the revenge nature of it, he simply cannot abide. After all, this person put Gray through hell, tortured, scarred and essentially turned him into the “monster” he is today. With the introduction of Nathan into Gray’s life, we have seen the subtle transformation that Gray never thought possible, but they are still on pretty thin ice where their relationship is concerned, at least on Gray’s side. Nathan has learned pretty quickly how to navigate Gray which, through that process, have brought out Nathan’s feelings for Gray, though he is careful not to share for fear of Gray’s reaction. Not to worry too much though, because we can see Gray is having similar feelings even if he isn’t sure what they are. Gray is someone who has thought himself incapable of many different feelings and emotions, something that has enabled him to perform his job as a Handler.
Nathan isn’t ready to give up on Gray and takes a big risk that ultimately pays off. While this story ends in a happy for now scenario, we are assured they are headed in the right direction and after some time and circumstances evolve, they will be able to move forward together. We have a lovely epilogue showing how these two are going to make it work in the meantime and the promise of a book 3 right around the corner. I am loving watching these two evolve and grow with this unique storyline keeping the page turning and can’t wait to see it all play out.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
August 7, 2021
DNF at 17%
It was just the same sex again. This time someone caught feelings and guess who that was. Not the psychopath oh no. It was the naïve as hell human.
And honestly knowing that Grey fucked Nathan and then showered him with affection even after he knew that his old tormentor was watching just to put on "a show" left a bad feeling in my stomach which I did not like at all. Especially since Nathan doesn't know about this.
It was just the same sex again. This time someone caught feelings and guess who that was. Not the psychopath oh no. It was the naïve as hell human.
And honestly knowing that Grey fucked Nathan and then showered him with affection even after he knew that his old tormentor was watching just to put on "a show" left a bad feeling in my stomach which I did not like at all. Especially since Nathan doesn't know about this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2021
**UPDATE**
Last year...I had the review below...now I retract...so disappointing that the author had to plagiarize. They were becoming one of the authors I so enjoyed and was excited on getting stories from...all lies...so be aware fellow readers.
Still Dark...Still Good
Well this is getting good. Second story in this saga centered around a handler Gray and his witness Nathan. The guys take up from where it was left off and still go about business as usual...dealing out justice to those who are evil. They have a relationship of sorts but they are working on the lack of trust and communication. Gray's past has come back to haunt him which puts their newfound relationship to the test. In this story we read on revelations, truths, betrayals and finally closure. The title really fits this story perfect because Gray has been "cleansed" and now is on a new journey/chapter in his life. Can this journey of rediscovery survive the guys relationship?? Well I can't wait to find out in the next installment. I'm sooooo hooked!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Last year...I had the review below...now I retract...so disappointing that the author had to plagiarize. They were becoming one of the authors I so enjoyed and was excited on getting stories from...all lies...so be aware fellow readers.
Still Dark...Still Good
Well this is getting good. Second story in this saga centered around a handler Gray and his witness Nathan. The guys take up from where it was left off and still go about business as usual...dealing out justice to those who are evil. They have a relationship of sorts but they are working on the lack of trust and communication. Gray's past has come back to haunt him which puts their newfound relationship to the test. In this story we read on revelations, truths, betrayals and finally closure. The title really fits this story perfect because Gray has been "cleansed" and now is on a new journey/chapter in his life. Can this journey of rediscovery survive the guys relationship?? Well I can't wait to find out in the next installment. I'm sooooo hooked!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2021
8.5.21 EDIT
Author plagiarizes
4 stars
The second book in the series picks up not long after the first one left off. We get to see more of this bond between serial killer and government official, and how their bond strengthens.
We also get to see a bit more of Nathan’s 13-year-old brother Indigo, who when younger was caught taking a cat apart. Found to have psychopathic traits (duh), the government did what they did to Gray—sent Indigo to their lock-down facility, microchipped him, and will continue to evaluate him as he grows up. I hope we get to see more of him.
Gray gets to confront his childhood captor and torturer.
And readers get to wait for the next in the series as there’s still no conclusion, yet. I was happy that this book felt more like a romance, though.
The only thing I have a problem with is (as with other foreign authors) some objects mentioned aren’t Americanized (number plate, sat nav, etc). It’s not a huge deal, but when one wants to set a story in a particular place, not using correct names lessons the authenticity of the story. Even when the story is fictionalized.
Still a great book. On to book 3.
Author plagiarizes
4 stars
The second book in the series picks up not long after the first one left off. We get to see more of this bond between serial killer and government official, and how their bond strengthens.
We also get to see a bit more of Nathan’s 13-year-old brother Indigo, who when younger was caught taking a cat apart. Found to have psychopathic traits (duh), the government did what they did to Gray—sent Indigo to their lock-down facility, microchipped him, and will continue to evaluate him as he grows up. I hope we get to see more of him.
Gray gets to confront his childhood captor and torturer.
And readers get to wait for the next in the series as there’s still no conclusion, yet. I was happy that this book felt more like a romance, though.
The only thing I have a problem with is (as with other foreign authors) some objects mentioned aren’t Americanized (number plate, sat nav, etc). It’s not a huge deal, but when one wants to set a story in a particular place, not using correct names lessons the authenticity of the story. Even when the story is fictionalized.
Still a great book. On to book 3.
December 29, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/12/29/...
Rating: 5 Stars – absolutely perfect
Rating: 5 Stars – absolutely perfect
August 8, 2021
Changing my rating because plagiarism is not cool!!
https://mobile.twitter.com/Mayalaen/s...
https://archiveofourown.org/works/980...
August 5, 2021
Romilly King didn't write this. Its stolen. Like everything else King publishes.
November 26, 2020
It was so good to be back with Gray and Nathan, I missed them so much.
Loved reading this book, on a different level than the first one, but it's still love.
It's a dark romance, and while the first one was mostly dark, this was romance. Sweet and lovely romance. Okay, still dark, but it's the perfect balance between the two book. Gray was more human and I fell for him more page after page. He is still a psycopath, because there is no miracle or angels, but a lovely psycopath.
Loved the little changes in Gray, and when he cried - oh god that scene! The connection between Gray and Nathan, their relationship, their love - it's so good and real. And I love how Nathan handles everything. I love Nathan and Indigo's relationship, Nathan has so much love to give and he has two psycopath whose brain works different. It's really fascinating to watch how Nathan love these two and how they are accepting it.
Gray is a really well written character and it's really exciting to read about those stuff he does and how he thinks. I love being in Gray's POV.
The story was a little slower than the first and it wasn't as exciting, but after a while it got interesting too. I really can't wait to read the last book, I'm curious how they will end up together and how everything will turn out. I want to see more Indigo and more sweet Gray.
The ending was good and I was really sad that it ended - but that little webcam scene was worth everything.
I feel I could talk about Gray for hours and how perfect he is, but you have to check it for yourself. Read this book!
Loved reading this book, on a different level than the first one, but it's still love.
It's a dark romance, and while the first one was mostly dark, this was romance. Sweet and lovely romance. Okay, still dark, but it's the perfect balance between the two book. Gray was more human and I fell for him more page after page. He is still a psycopath, because there is no miracle or angels, but a lovely psycopath.
Loved the little changes in Gray, and when he cried - oh god that scene! The connection between Gray and Nathan, their relationship, their love - it's so good and real. And I love how Nathan handles everything. I love Nathan and Indigo's relationship, Nathan has so much love to give and he has two psycopath whose brain works different. It's really fascinating to watch how Nathan love these two and how they are accepting it.
Gray is a really well written character and it's really exciting to read about those stuff he does and how he thinks. I love being in Gray's POV.
The story was a little slower than the first and it wasn't as exciting, but after a while it got interesting too. I really can't wait to read the last book, I'm curious how they will end up together and how everything will turn out. I want to see more Indigo and more sweet Gray.
The ending was good and I was really sad that it ended - but that little webcam scene was worth everything.
I feel I could talk about Gray for hours and how perfect he is, but you have to check it for yourself. Read this book!
January 18, 2021
This series is sooo good!! This episode is nail biting as the first. Finding the man who got ahold of Gray when he was a child. Nathan and Gray get closer to finding him and closer to each other.
I dont want to write too much about the story itself as its in the blurb. If you read book one this is a great continuation of the story. Action packed, dark, suspense and love.
Page turner. I loved every minute of it.
I dont want to write too much about the story itself as its in the blurb. If you read book one this is a great continuation of the story. Action packed, dark, suspense and love.
Page turner. I loved every minute of it.
July 5, 2021
Gray is fascinating as ever
How is it possible to be so drawn to someone like Gray? At least, the old Gray. The new Gray is still deadly, but softened around the edges just a bit. All because of Nathan.
Nathan isn’t lily white, either. He’s chaotic good, even without Gray’s influence.
I can’t wait for the next book!
How is it possible to be so drawn to someone like Gray? At least, the old Gray. The new Gray is still deadly, but softened around the edges just a bit. All because of Nathan.
Nathan isn’t lily white, either. He’s chaotic good, even without Gray’s influence.
I can’t wait for the next book!
August 6, 2021
This entire series was plagarized from a destiel fanfic series on AO3. Doing a find/replace on the names in the work of an actual writer doesn't make Romilly King one.
November 28, 2020
A dark study in love.
This is the second in the Handled series. This is such a good twisted love story.
These characters are so intriguing and their interactions fascinating.
Gray's evolving darkness and his remembrance of his past are the cornerstone of book two, as well as
Nathan's evolving love for Gray and his acceptance of his own darker desires.
King has a wonderful handle on characterization and with his dark twisted storytelling this book was impossible to put down.
Great read. Read the first one first.
This is the second in the Handled series. This is such a good twisted love story.
These characters are so intriguing and their interactions fascinating.
Gray's evolving darkness and his remembrance of his past are the cornerstone of book two, as well as
Nathan's evolving love for Gray and his acceptance of his own darker desires.
King has a wonderful handle on characterization and with his dark twisted storytelling this book was impossible to put down.
Great read. Read the first one first.
September 20, 2021
Rating changed for evidence of author plagiarism
A bit darker
More background on Gray, action spiced just a little with sex. Characters I can get absorbed in. It feels like a bigger read than the number of pages would indicate. Lots of quality in a compact form.<\s>
More background on Gray, action spiced just a little with sex. Characters I can get absorbed in. It feels like a bigger read than the number of pages would indicate. Lots of quality in a compact form.<\s>
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August 5, 2021I have been made aware that a significant portion of this author's catalog are plagiarized from fanfiction. I have removed my ratings and reviews, but I am leaving this record of having read the book for my own tracking purposes. I originally read this book via Kindle Unlimited.
August 5, 2021
Apparently, this author likes to plagiarize their work. 👎🏼👎🏼
Read
August 5, 2021Changing my rating because the book is plagiarised https://twitter.com/lotrspnfangirl/st...
February 19, 2021
Cleansed is the second in the continuing Handled trilogy by Romilly King. It is still dark, but something beautiful is happening between Gray and Nathan which transforms Cleansed into an unexpected, yet desired, blooming romance. Cleansed picks up where Handled left off, and as such, is not a standalone. Here, the focus switches from the art of “handling” to Gray and Nathan.
Gray is still a psychopath, and a member of the government-sanctioned program that deals with serial killers. However, Gray is evolving. As he remembers his past, pieces of his humanity return. The feelings are strange and uncomfortable for Gray, while at the same time refreshing and interesting. Within the pages of Handled, Gray lacks emotion, with the exception of his psychopathic desires and need to give/receive pain. In contrast, there is a scene in Cleansed where Gray breaks down and cries, and OMG is it intense and emotional.
Nathan is, in part, the catalyst that breaks through Gray’s seemingly impenetrable walls. He offers an amazing plethora of love to both Gray and his psychopathic brother, Indigo. Nathan delivers it in a way that their warped brains can receive. It is utterly amazing to witness the interactions that occur. There is more to Indigo’s story and one has to wonder if there will be a spinoff.
When Gray’s past comes back to bite him in the buttocks, it places a strain on the tender relationship that is forming as he and Nathan work through their communication and trust issues. Gray is not supposed to handle a situation so close to him but, there is an understanding that he needs the closure. Nathan must make a decision, to trust Gray or honor his responsibilities as Gray’s handler. It is a delicate balance that Nathan tackles perfectly, at least in this reader’s opinion.
With the evolution of their relationship, Gray’s previous handlers are astonished by the way the attachment transforms from raw sex, need and desire, to a loving, trusting partnership. Of course, there are bumps along the way that add to the credibility of their story. Gray has been closed off for years and is navigating uncharted territory as Nathan tries his best to not rock the boat and let things progress naturally. It will be extremely interesting to see how the trilogy solidifies their relationship; will it be a happily-ever-after or more of a happy-for-now. I am dying to find out!
The use of multiple points of view, depending on who is the focal point at the time, will engross you in this story, giving the impression that you are present as each and every act plays out. Romilly King’s writing style captures the essence of the characters and where the story detours into the macabre, it flows perfectly without becoming a revolting picture of the events.
Cleansed is truly unique, engaging and completely mesmerizing. You can’t wait to see what will happen on every turn of the page. The world-building is so spectacular, you are immersed within it, as time seems to pass effortlessly around you.
Gray is still a psychopath, and a member of the government-sanctioned program that deals with serial killers. However, Gray is evolving. As he remembers his past, pieces of his humanity return. The feelings are strange and uncomfortable for Gray, while at the same time refreshing and interesting. Within the pages of Handled, Gray lacks emotion, with the exception of his psychopathic desires and need to give/receive pain. In contrast, there is a scene in Cleansed where Gray breaks down and cries, and OMG is it intense and emotional.
Nathan is, in part, the catalyst that breaks through Gray’s seemingly impenetrable walls. He offers an amazing plethora of love to both Gray and his psychopathic brother, Indigo. Nathan delivers it in a way that their warped brains can receive. It is utterly amazing to witness the interactions that occur. There is more to Indigo’s story and one has to wonder if there will be a spinoff.
When Gray’s past comes back to bite him in the buttocks, it places a strain on the tender relationship that is forming as he and Nathan work through their communication and trust issues. Gray is not supposed to handle a situation so close to him but, there is an understanding that he needs the closure. Nathan must make a decision, to trust Gray or honor his responsibilities as Gray’s handler. It is a delicate balance that Nathan tackles perfectly, at least in this reader’s opinion.
With the evolution of their relationship, Gray’s previous handlers are astonished by the way the attachment transforms from raw sex, need and desire, to a loving, trusting partnership. Of course, there are bumps along the way that add to the credibility of their story. Gray has been closed off for years and is navigating uncharted territory as Nathan tries his best to not rock the boat and let things progress naturally. It will be extremely interesting to see how the trilogy solidifies their relationship; will it be a happily-ever-after or more of a happy-for-now. I am dying to find out!
The use of multiple points of view, depending on who is the focal point at the time, will engross you in this story, giving the impression that you are present as each and every act plays out. Romilly King’s writing style captures the essence of the characters and where the story detours into the macabre, it flows perfectly without becoming a revolting picture of the events.
Cleansed is truly unique, engaging and completely mesmerizing. You can’t wait to see what will happen on every turn of the page. The world-building is so spectacular, you are immersed within it, as time seems to pass effortlessly around you.
June 1, 2021
Make sure to read Handled first.
The story of Gray and Nathan continues. Only a matter of weeks has elapsed between the end of Handled and the beginning of Cleansed. As the book opens they are on the verge of their first Handling since things went wrong at the end of Handled. (The case where the killer turned his attention on Nathan.) A couple this time. The man likes young Asian woman as sex slaves and the wife enjoys killing them after they’ve been broken.
The execution is bloody and Gray takes Nathan outside of his Courtroom for his reward. Taking Nathan where he once hung bleeding. But Gray senses more than Nathan’s presence, he has a silent observer, who Gray knows is his one time captor. And Gray enjoys rubbing his nose in the hedonism he shares with his Witness.
In the aftermath of the latest Handling, Nathan comes over to Gray’s house to find him out of sorts. His tiger is lacking his normal grace. He seems to be in pain and Nathan adds two and two together to comes up with seven. He assumes Gray needed a Dominant to dole out pain, and he finds himself possessive of his Handler. Gray is amused by Nathan’s odd logic leap, promising he won’t go to another for sex and ordering Nathan to do the same. How cute. They’re going steady.
The pain Gray is fighting is tightness in his scars that is usually managed with massage. Nathan offers to massage his back. And once Gray gets over the tenderness of the gesture, he relaxes under Nathan’s touch. Nathan gives him a happy ending BJ, and he find he doesn’t hate the softer intimacy.
Gray’s former captive makes the next move, pinning wings on the door of the carriage house, leaving the poor swans suffering inside. Nathan finds the gun Gray keeps hidden in his Courtroom and puts the animals out of their misery. Then he forces Gray to fess up. Gray figured out his former captive was circling when that last kill found his Courtroom and tortured Nathan.
Gray honestly never considered anything but taunting his enemy, but now he sets out to treat him as a Handled case. Finding the document that led the killer to his home and then looking though his own file. The initial kidnapping.
Diving into his own past has Gray unlocking memories. Nathan is staying over when Gray gets lost in his dream, calling out. Gray accepts Nathan’s caretaking, the bond between them ever growing.
The next day Gray tracks down the identity of his captor and calls Nathan for his reward. He wants pain and he wants Nathan to fuck him. (Ranks up with their first time together on the hotness scale.)
The day after that, Gray cuts out his tracker and heads out to take his former captive out on his own. Leaving Nathan, Edward, and Nora to play catch-up, with a little help from a similar mind, Nathan’s brother Indigo.
***
Tidbit: Nathan chooses Bon Jovi’s Blaze of Glory as Gray ringtone, specifically the line “I’m going down, in a blaze of glory. Take me now but know the truth.”
The story of Gray and Nathan continues. Only a matter of weeks has elapsed between the end of Handled and the beginning of Cleansed. As the book opens they are on the verge of their first Handling since things went wrong at the end of Handled. (The case where the killer turned his attention on Nathan.) A couple this time. The man likes young Asian woman as sex slaves and the wife enjoys killing them after they’ve been broken.
The execution is bloody and Gray takes Nathan outside of his Courtroom for his reward. Taking Nathan where he once hung bleeding. But Gray senses more than Nathan’s presence, he has a silent observer, who Gray knows is his one time captor. And Gray enjoys rubbing his nose in the hedonism he shares with his Witness.
In the aftermath of the latest Handling, Nathan comes over to Gray’s house to find him out of sorts. His tiger is lacking his normal grace. He seems to be in pain and Nathan adds two and two together to comes up with seven. He assumes Gray needed a Dominant to dole out pain, and he finds himself possessive of his Handler. Gray is amused by Nathan’s odd logic leap, promising he won’t go to another for sex and ordering Nathan to do the same. How cute. They’re going steady.
The pain Gray is fighting is tightness in his scars that is usually managed with massage. Nathan offers to massage his back. And once Gray gets over the tenderness of the gesture, he relaxes under Nathan’s touch. Nathan gives him a happy ending BJ, and he find he doesn’t hate the softer intimacy.
Gray’s former captive makes the next move, pinning wings on the door of the carriage house, leaving the poor swans suffering inside. Nathan finds the gun Gray keeps hidden in his Courtroom and puts the animals out of their misery. Then he forces Gray to fess up. Gray figured out his former captive was circling when that last kill found his Courtroom and tortured Nathan.
Gray honestly never considered anything but taunting his enemy, but now he sets out to treat him as a Handled case. Finding the document that led the killer to his home and then looking though his own file. The initial kidnapping.
Diving into his own past has Gray unlocking memories. Nathan is staying over when Gray gets lost in his dream, calling out. Gray accepts Nathan’s caretaking, the bond between them ever growing.
The next day Gray tracks down the identity of his captor and calls Nathan for his reward. He wants pain and he wants Nathan to fuck him. (Ranks up with their first time together on the hotness scale.)
The day after that, Gray cuts out his tracker and heads out to take his former captive out on his own. Leaving Nathan, Edward, and Nora to play catch-up, with a little help from a similar mind, Nathan’s brother Indigo.
***
Tidbit: Nathan chooses Bon Jovi’s Blaze of Glory as Gray ringtone, specifically the line “I’m going down, in a blaze of glory. Take me now but know the truth.”
August 8, 2021
This book, as well as handled, takes tracts of text and key concepts from "CONventional Psychopathy" parts 1 and 2 - a Destiel fanfic. The real author is working on having it taken down from Amazon. Romilly King's behaviour is scandalous, and with now 4 books in their catalogue proving not to be their work, they are not a writer to be trusted.
April 6, 2021
Hmmm...I really liked this, but then it took a turn that I wasn't really a fan of. I'm going to skip the 3rd in this series.
August 8, 2021
DNF - the author has plagiarized at least 4 of their books. I don't support thieves
July 3, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My star rating is a 4.75.
Cleansed is the second book in Romilly King's Handled series. Receiving a review copy of Cleansed, I read as little of the synopsis as possible to see if it was enough to my liking to get the first book. Spoiler, it was. I can't go into a lot of detail about this book because it is the second in a series. I will say if you don't like morally ambiguous characters, the delicacies surround the death penalty, and the interventions of a government run program to identify and use psychopaths' both for their often times superior intellect and potential deadliness, this is not your series.
To outline the general plot of book one, this is a world where psychopaths' become societies answer to the death penalty, where serial killers are hunted and handled by their own kind. Handlers are ruthless in their justice, and their kills are sanctioned by the government, basically making the Handler and their Witness, judge, jury, and executioner. There are strict guidelines that both the Handler and the witness must abide by that are meant to take the place of the archaic judicial system that often gets it wrong, imprisoning and often killing the wrong person because of race, religion, sexuality... You know our stellar judicial system that prays on the systematically oppressed among us while the government makes incarceration a business of privately run prisons that have no clear motive to rehabilitate and release because it would hurt the bottom line, but I digress. This is truly what this series does to you, it pisses you off and has you rooting for the morally Gray (you'll see why that is funny in a second) characters.
Meet Nathan, he has trained as a witness to stay close to his younger brother who he has taken care of since a young age after their mother's passing. Indi is a psychopath and in the program. Nathan is a witness because it was the only way to stay close. Nathan has been lucky so far and has not been assigned to a Handler, but luck has run out and he is not only assigned to a handler, but he is also assigned to the Handler that was the first, the programs Adam of sorts, the beginning. He is also one of the most notorious, scariest, and cruelest of Handlers if you believe the hype.
Meet Gray, he is the monster of stories meant to keep the general public in line, the invisible hand of justice, the fact that he gets off on serving that justice is just an added perk. Gray is particular and scary and when Nathan comes into his life, he is both intriguing and fun, something Gray has never encountered. Gray handles serial killings that target the most forgotten among us, those the system and the world would rather not see, hear, or help.
Gray and Nathan are hunting a murderer and when he is found, he will be served justice in a courtroom of two, the handler and the witness.
What Romilly, did so well in this series is make the attraction between Nathan and Gray palpable, it grabs you square in the chest making your heart race while you mind is saying no, no, no Nathan beware. But Gray has a way of pulling you in, the way his mind works, the way his body works. How he is that gray line between what is right and wrong. He and Nathan are polar opposites the darkness and the light, and you see how one cannot exist without the other metaphorically, physically, and emotionally. The sex in this series is graphic for those who are not into M/M romance. It is consensual but often rough, sometime brutal, and sometimes so utterly taboo that you want to look away but can't.
I ended up binging this entire series, the third book was just as deliciously wrong and right at the same time. The story lines in each intertwine to an extent although each book gives you a satisfying ending before moving on to the next mystery. The plot and characters are interesting, tortured, deviant, hopeful, and loving. The books are short, but don't feel rushed and certainly tell the story in its entirety. Lower page count's usually come with some sacrifice to the story, and I did not feel that here.
This book series is not for everyone. That said, it is well written, except for many editing errors in the last book. If you like suspense, morally gray characters, and hot sex scenes, look no further.
My star rating is a 4.75.
Cleansed is the second book in Romilly King's Handled series. Receiving a review copy of Cleansed, I read as little of the synopsis as possible to see if it was enough to my liking to get the first book. Spoiler, it was. I can't go into a lot of detail about this book because it is the second in a series. I will say if you don't like morally ambiguous characters, the delicacies surround the death penalty, and the interventions of a government run program to identify and use psychopaths' both for their often times superior intellect and potential deadliness, this is not your series.
To outline the general plot of book one, this is a world where psychopaths' become societies answer to the death penalty, where serial killers are hunted and handled by their own kind. Handlers are ruthless in their justice, and their kills are sanctioned by the government, basically making the Handler and their Witness, judge, jury, and executioner. There are strict guidelines that both the Handler and the witness must abide by that are meant to take the place of the archaic judicial system that often gets it wrong, imprisoning and often killing the wrong person because of race, religion, sexuality... You know our stellar judicial system that prays on the systematically oppressed among us while the government makes incarceration a business of privately run prisons that have no clear motive to rehabilitate and release because it would hurt the bottom line, but I digress. This is truly what this series does to you, it pisses you off and has you rooting for the morally Gray (you'll see why that is funny in a second) characters.
Meet Nathan, he has trained as a witness to stay close to his younger brother who he has taken care of since a young age after their mother's passing. Indi is a psychopath and in the program. Nathan is a witness because it was the only way to stay close. Nathan has been lucky so far and has not been assigned to a Handler, but luck has run out and he is not only assigned to a handler, but he is also assigned to the Handler that was the first, the programs Adam of sorts, the beginning. He is also one of the most notorious, scariest, and cruelest of Handlers if you believe the hype.
Meet Gray, he is the monster of stories meant to keep the general public in line, the invisible hand of justice, the fact that he gets off on serving that justice is just an added perk. Gray is particular and scary and when Nathan comes into his life, he is both intriguing and fun, something Gray has never encountered. Gray handles serial killings that target the most forgotten among us, those the system and the world would rather not see, hear, or help.
Gray and Nathan are hunting a murderer and when he is found, he will be served justice in a courtroom of two, the handler and the witness.
What Romilly, did so well in this series is make the attraction between Nathan and Gray palpable, it grabs you square in the chest making your heart race while you mind is saying no, no, no Nathan beware. But Gray has a way of pulling you in, the way his mind works, the way his body works. How he is that gray line between what is right and wrong. He and Nathan are polar opposites the darkness and the light, and you see how one cannot exist without the other metaphorically, physically, and emotionally. The sex in this series is graphic for those who are not into M/M romance. It is consensual but often rough, sometime brutal, and sometimes so utterly taboo that you want to look away but can't.
I ended up binging this entire series, the third book was just as deliciously wrong and right at the same time. The story lines in each intertwine to an extent although each book gives you a satisfying ending before moving on to the next mystery. The plot and characters are interesting, tortured, deviant, hopeful, and loving. The books are short, but don't feel rushed and certainly tell the story in its entirety. Lower page count's usually come with some sacrifice to the story, and I did not feel that here.
This book series is not for everyone. That said, it is well written, except for many editing errors in the last book. If you like suspense, morally gray characters, and hot sex scenes, look no further.
February 14, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book 2 opens pretty much where Book 1 closed, with a time jump of only 6 weeks. Both Grey and Nate have physically healed from the EVENT at the end of Book 1, but both are still emotionally rattled by it. And given Grey’s psychopathy, it takes a LOT to rattle him.
Nora has them back on the job, their first Handling after the EVENT (author’s accent, not just mine). They are both unsettled, but they are both ready to do the job they do. The case is a husband and wife who are keeping illegal immigrants as “servants” (actually slaves, who get dead went the wealthy socialite couple tire of them). Grey and Nate function better as a team now than they did in the first book. After hearing the case summary you don’t have any kind of sympathy for the guilty couple, so even though you know the couple won’t be “going gentle into that goodnight” the courtroom scene wasn’t written as much from Grey’s POV so it wasn’t as brutal as scenes in Book 1.
The major investigation of this book though, surrounds the sadistic psycho who kidnapped Grey as a child. That horrific experience most likely was a HUGE factor in making Grey the person he is. Grey would likely still have been a psychopath, since his brain just wired that way, But that element of himself that Grey calls “the monster” or “the beast” definitely seems to have come out of that traumatic time.
The side-story of Nate’s teenage brother, which was touched on in Book 1 as being part of why Nate is so committed to what they do, plays a larger role in this book. I didn’t understand in Book 1 why there was so much time spent on Nathan and Indi. In hindsight, it now makes sense. Indi’s “conduct disorder” winds up working to everyone’s benefit since he’s able to think like Grey. I think the author may have had Indi’s role in this book in mind from the start, and in Book 1 was laying the necessary groundwork.
This book again ends in a “Happy For Now” though Nate and Grey are now an established couple and both in it for the long haul. There are complications. Given who Nate and Grey are, and the life challenges they each face, uncomplicated was never going to be an option.
This Book I’m giving a 5. The disturbing aspects of Book 1 were dialed back in Book 2, or maybe I just wasn’t as disquieted as I knew what to expect, and the writing is equally as good. After Book 1 I was on the fence. After Book 2 I’m now looking forward to Book 3.
Book 2 opens pretty much where Book 1 closed, with a time jump of only 6 weeks. Both Grey and Nate have physically healed from the EVENT at the end of Book 1, but both are still emotionally rattled by it. And given Grey’s psychopathy, it takes a LOT to rattle him.
Nora has them back on the job, their first Handling after the EVENT (author’s accent, not just mine). They are both unsettled, but they are both ready to do the job they do. The case is a husband and wife who are keeping illegal immigrants as “servants” (actually slaves, who get dead went the wealthy socialite couple tire of them). Grey and Nate function better as a team now than they did in the first book. After hearing the case summary you don’t have any kind of sympathy for the guilty couple, so even though you know the couple won’t be “going gentle into that goodnight” the courtroom scene wasn’t written as much from Grey’s POV so it wasn’t as brutal as scenes in Book 1.
The major investigation of this book though, surrounds the sadistic psycho who kidnapped Grey as a child. That horrific experience most likely was a HUGE factor in making Grey the person he is. Grey would likely still have been a psychopath, since his brain just wired that way, But that element of himself that Grey calls “the monster” or “the beast” definitely seems to have come out of that traumatic time.
The side-story of Nate’s teenage brother, which was touched on in Book 1 as being part of why Nate is so committed to what they do, plays a larger role in this book. I didn’t understand in Book 1 why there was so much time spent on Nathan and Indi. In hindsight, it now makes sense. Indi’s “conduct disorder” winds up working to everyone’s benefit since he’s able to think like Grey. I think the author may have had Indi’s role in this book in mind from the start, and in Book 1 was laying the necessary groundwork.
This book again ends in a “Happy For Now” though Nate and Grey are now an established couple and both in it for the long haul. There are complications. Given who Nate and Grey are, and the life challenges they each face, uncomplicated was never going to be an option.
This Book I’m giving a 5. The disturbing aspects of Book 1 were dialed back in Book 2, or maybe I just wasn’t as disquieted as I knew what to expect, and the writing is equally as good. After Book 1 I was on the fence. After Book 2 I’m now looking forward to Book 3.
March 7, 2021
Second book of the series and it didn’t disappoint.
The books revolve around the dynamic between the main characters Gray and Nathan. I suggest reading these books in order as the second book is a continue of their story.
The book pulls us straight into the handle of two serial killers, and we are showed an unhappy Gray after the mess that happened in the previous book. The main focus is on an enraged Gray, following up on the discovery of being watched by the people who control him and the person that kidnapped him. Nathan takes a seat back as we discovered what happened to Gray, even if the rage of his tormentor will be focused on him, thanks to Gray taunting him with their relationship.
Throughout the book we discovered what happened to Gray during the time he was in the hands of his kidnapper. We also see how Gray attention has moved, from enjoying killing people to finding his tormentor. All his actions are made to protect Nathan, because he is the most important thing in Gray’s life.
To find the man and to “handle” him, even if he shouldn’t, Gray has to get free.
What’s different in this book is that we see Gray feelings, his need to protect Nathan at all cost and his hunger for freedom. The author shows them in a beautiful way, never letting you think that Gray is weak, or let you think that these feeling could in any way stop him from what he must do.
Nathan as I said is on the passenger seat in this book, but we can see how much he cares for Gray, and he is not willing to leave him handle this case on his own. Nathan does all he can to be with him when he thinks he needs it.
I didn’t like is the Italics parts as I found them confusing at time and had to re-read them to understand who was talking.
I loved the part when Gray gets free and finally enjoys life, but he will have to leave Nathan behind.
The end is hopeful and leave opening for the third book of the series.
The book is well written, sharp, gritty and the characters are well defined.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The books revolve around the dynamic between the main characters Gray and Nathan. I suggest reading these books in order as the second book is a continue of their story.
The book pulls us straight into the handle of two serial killers, and we are showed an unhappy Gray after the mess that happened in the previous book. The main focus is on an enraged Gray, following up on the discovery of being watched by the people who control him and the person that kidnapped him. Nathan takes a seat back as we discovered what happened to Gray, even if the rage of his tormentor will be focused on him, thanks to Gray taunting him with their relationship.
Throughout the book we discovered what happened to Gray during the time he was in the hands of his kidnapper. We also see how Gray attention has moved, from enjoying killing people to finding his tormentor. All his actions are made to protect Nathan, because he is the most important thing in Gray’s life.
To find the man and to “handle” him, even if he shouldn’t, Gray has to get free.
What’s different in this book is that we see Gray feelings, his need to protect Nathan at all cost and his hunger for freedom. The author shows them in a beautiful way, never letting you think that Gray is weak, or let you think that these feeling could in any way stop him from what he must do.
Nathan as I said is on the passenger seat in this book, but we can see how much he cares for Gray, and he is not willing to leave him handle this case on his own. Nathan does all he can to be with him when he thinks he needs it.
I didn’t like is the Italics parts as I found them confusing at time and had to re-read them to understand who was talking.
I loved the part when Gray gets free and finally enjoys life, but he will have to leave Nathan behind.
The end is hopeful and leave opening for the third book of the series.
The book is well written, sharp, gritty and the characters are well defined.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2021
What would it be like if Dexter Morgan’s method was an official department of the justice system? That’s essentially this book.
Serial killers don’t languish on death row exhausting the appeals process. They don’t get off on technicalities. Punishment is swift and permanent. There is no doubt of their guilt, reasonable or otherwise. Their execution is “handled” by trained killers who themselves could have become serial killers if not for the intervention of the department. All executions are officially sanctioned and performed with a “Witness”. Families are given closure in a timely manner.
I received a free copy of book 2 in exchange for a review, so to be fair I read the first book. I loved it. It’s dark, it’s disturbing, it’s serial killers - pretty much what I look for in a book at the moment. It’s open ended so you need to read book 1, 2 and book 3 rounds out the trilogy nicely. In fact I liked the books and characters so much I looked up and bought the trilogy set on Amazon even though it’s available on Kindle Unlimited. I know I will want to read this again. It has typos but what books don’t lately? At least they are few. I wish the books were longer and more killers had been “handled”. Loved the premise, looking forward to the future books in this world. Hoping the rest of the authors books are this good.
Serial killers don’t languish on death row exhausting the appeals process. They don’t get off on technicalities. Punishment is swift and permanent. There is no doubt of their guilt, reasonable or otherwise. Their execution is “handled” by trained killers who themselves could have become serial killers if not for the intervention of the department. All executions are officially sanctioned and performed with a “Witness”. Families are given closure in a timely manner.
I received a free copy of book 2 in exchange for a review, so to be fair I read the first book. I loved it. It’s dark, it’s disturbing, it’s serial killers - pretty much what I look for in a book at the moment. It’s open ended so you need to read book 1, 2 and book 3 rounds out the trilogy nicely. In fact I liked the books and characters so much I looked up and bought the trilogy set on Amazon even though it’s available on Kindle Unlimited. I know I will want to read this again. It has typos but what books don’t lately? At least they are few. I wish the books were longer and more killers had been “handled”. Loved the premise, looking forward to the future books in this world. Hoping the rest of the authors books are this good.
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