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To Love a Psycho #1
Dream a Little Dream
His student. His obsession. His undoing.
"Maybe there’s something in two broken souls needing the same thing, at the same time, then searching for it in the same place.
Aaron Jones has survived by hiding behind walls of control and calculated indifference. He’s had to. As the son of two infamous serial killers, people either fear him, pity him, or crave to peel him open just to see what’s underneath. The last thing he needs is anyone digging into his past. Especially not a man who makes him want to surrender every defence.
Dr Kenneth Lyons. Criminal psychologist. Brilliant. Respected. Off-limits.
And the one man Aaron can’t seem to resist.
Kenny has always been drawn to the shadows of the human mind, but nothing is darker, or more tempting, than the new haunted student in his lecture hall. Aaron is beautiful, complicated, and utterly forbidden. Every rule says he should walk away. Every glance, every brush of contact, makes that impossible.
Desire twists into obsession. Boundaries shatter.
Every kiss is dangerous.
Every touch is a confession.
And every moment brings them closer to ruin.
But when a new killer surfaces on campus, mimicking the crimes of Aaron’s parents, their intoxicating entanglement turns deadly. Someone wants to resurrect the past. Someone wants to expose the truth. And if Kenny isn’t careful, giving into Aaron could cost him everything.
Dream a Little Dream (To Love a Psycho, Book 1)
is a dark MM romance of forbidden attraction, psychological obsession, and murder mystery suspense, for readers who crave steam tangled with danger, secrets, and a love that should never happen, but does.
Please see the author note for potential triggers.
"Maybe there’s something in two broken souls needing the same thing, at the same time, then searching for it in the same place.
Aaron Jones has survived by hiding behind walls of control and calculated indifference. He’s had to. As the son of two infamous serial killers, people either fear him, pity him, or crave to peel him open just to see what’s underneath. The last thing he needs is anyone digging into his past. Especially not a man who makes him want to surrender every defence.
Dr Kenneth Lyons. Criminal psychologist. Brilliant. Respected. Off-limits.
And the one man Aaron can’t seem to resist.
Kenny has always been drawn to the shadows of the human mind, but nothing is darker, or more tempting, than the new haunted student in his lecture hall. Aaron is beautiful, complicated, and utterly forbidden. Every rule says he should walk away. Every glance, every brush of contact, makes that impossible.
Desire twists into obsession. Boundaries shatter.
Every kiss is dangerous.
Every touch is a confession.
And every moment brings them closer to ruin.
But when a new killer surfaces on campus, mimicking the crimes of Aaron’s parents, their intoxicating entanglement turns deadly. Someone wants to resurrect the past. Someone wants to expose the truth. And if Kenny isn’t careful, giving into Aaron could cost him everything.
Dream a Little Dream (To Love a Psycho, Book 1)
is a dark MM romance of forbidden attraction, psychological obsession, and murder mystery suspense, for readers who crave steam tangled with danger, secrets, and a love that should never happen, but does.
Please see the author note for potential triggers.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2025
187 people are currently reading
390 people want to read
About the author
C.F. White
37 books228 followersBrought up in a relatively small town in Hertfordshire, C F White managed to do what most other residents try to do and fail—leave.
She eventually settled for pie and mash, cockles and winkles and a bit of Knees Up Mother Brown to live in the East End of London; securing a job and creating a life, a home and a family.
She writes gritty British based stories about imperfect men falling in love against the odds and has been accused of sprinkling a bit of humour into them from time to time too.
She eventually settled for pie and mash, cockles and winkles and a bit of Knees Up Mother Brown to live in the East End of London; securing a job and creating a life, a home and a family.
She writes gritty British based stories about imperfect men falling in love against the odds and has been accused of sprinkling a bit of humour into them from time to time too.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
May 9, 2025
4.5
Exactly what I love to read! I'm really into crime mysteries at the moment too and this one was definitely engaging.
Aaron broke my heart - the things he's endured because of who his parents are are devastating. I empathised with him so much, and the pain and rejection he feels from Kenny had me teary eyed.
Kenny is an interesting character who's facing a battle between ethics and desire, and honestly I feel like he's making stupid decisions but I can understand his reasoning.
Roisin is definitely a few sandwiches short of the whole picnic and I'm interested to see what role she plays in the series.
I'm so glad this is a trilogy though because I want to know more about Aaron and Kenny, and I need to see Aaron get his well deserved HEA. The tension between these two is so good and I can't wait to see it burst!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from CF White, and this is my honest review
Exactly what I love to read! I'm really into crime mysteries at the moment too and this one was definitely engaging.
Aaron broke my heart - the things he's endured because of who his parents are are devastating. I empathised with him so much, and the pain and rejection he feels from Kenny had me teary eyed.
Kenny is an interesting character who's facing a battle between ethics and desire, and honestly I feel like he's making stupid decisions but I can understand his reasoning.
Roisin is definitely a few sandwiches short of the whole picnic and I'm interested to see what role she plays in the series.
I'm so glad this is a trilogy though because I want to know more about Aaron and Kenny, and I need to see Aaron get his well deserved HEA. The tension between these two is so good and I can't wait to see it burst!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from CF White, and this is my honest review
June 26, 2025
4.25**** stars
A student and a professor.
The son of a pair of serial killers and a criminal psychologist involved in their case and conviction ten years prior .
And now there is a new victim. A murder that resembles too much the parents’ MO. Only they couldn’t have done it. So who?
And although parts of the book were a bit longwinded and I had wished for the general pace to be faster I was fascinated and very much invested. In the overall plot, the characters, especially Aaron and also the murder mystery.
The romance between Kenny and Aaron was more of an afterthought in this first book in the trilogy but I honestly didn’t mind. It only added to the careful and reserved approach. And although there were sexual encounters, theirs is not a love story yet. They want it to be but at this point, it’s impossible.
Can’t wait for the sequel to release.
**************
To Love a Psycho Trilogy
Book 1 - Dream a Little Dream - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Kiss Me Honey Honey - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Killing Me Softly - currently reading
A student and a professor.
The son of a pair of serial killers and a criminal psychologist involved in their case and conviction ten years prior .
God, he was good at lying.
And now there is a new victim. A murder that resembles too much the parents’ MO. Only they couldn’t have done it. So who?
And although parts of the book were a bit longwinded and I had wished for the general pace to be faster I was fascinated and very much invested. In the overall plot, the characters, especially Aaron and also the murder mystery.
The romance between Kenny and Aaron was more of an afterthought in this first book in the trilogy but I honestly didn’t mind. It only added to the careful and reserved approach. And although there were sexual encounters, theirs is not a love story yet. They want it to be but at this point, it’s impossible.
“If you want me to help you heal, to get you through all this, and understand who you are, then I can’t blur those lines. Not with you.
Can’t wait for the sequel to release.
**************
To Love a Psycho Trilogy
Book 1 - Dream a Little Dream - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Kiss Me Honey Honey - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Killing Me Softly - currently reading
October 23, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Dream a Little Dream was an impressive and a bit disturbing Book 1 in a series that promises more excitement and murdery chills to come! Not a romance exactly, but the energy is there for these complicated MCs to go the distance. Rightfully, (assoc. prof) Kenny and (son of serial killers) Aaron's push and pull beginnings had me squirming. Most times these romances say they're forbidden and they're not, but there were some serious lines here that made me nervous, and I'm really glad there's a legit build-up to however these two will bridge that gap in the installments to come!
White's narrative style and tone, complex characters, and ofc the serial-killer creepy vibes made this story compulsively readable, and I absolutely cannot wait to dive right into the next! Great start to this crime drama romance, and looking forward to wherever White takes this series next in Kiss Me Honey Honey!
Dream a Little Dream was an impressive and a bit disturbing Book 1 in a series that promises more excitement and murdery chills to come! Not a romance exactly, but the energy is there for these complicated MCs to go the distance. Rightfully, (assoc. prof) Kenny and (son of serial killers) Aaron's push and pull beginnings had me squirming. Most times these romances say they're forbidden and they're not, but there were some serious lines here that made me nervous, and I'm really glad there's a legit build-up to however these two will bridge that gap in the installments to come!
White's narrative style and tone, complex characters, and ofc the serial-killer creepy vibes made this story compulsively readable, and I absolutely cannot wait to dive right into the next! Great start to this crime drama romance, and looking forward to wherever White takes this series next in Kiss Me Honey Honey!
Want to read
March 8, 2025Pre-read:
You're telling me there's a MM psychological thriller with...I'm gonna assume age gap cause student/prof and I didn't know about it? This is theoretically something I'd really love.
You're telling me there's a MM psychological thriller with...I'm gonna assume age gap cause student/prof and I didn't know about it? This is theoretically something I'd really love.
January 2, 2026
4.5⭐️
Really good!
I didn’t realise there was more than one book, so I’m happy that the next one is available to read now. I hate waiting 😆
I listened to this on Audible, and I thought the narrator was perfect for Kenny but not so much for Aaron, so I think I’ll just read the rest.
There’s a real likeness to Fred and Rose West in this book. From their names to their crimes to the aftermath. Lots of little nods to their story. Having watched a fair few documentaries on these two, it made this story feel super real and interesting. It doesn’t focus heavily on their crimes but rather the aftermath.
The story between Kenny and Aaron was very intriguing. Lots of bad decisions and toxic moments, but the way it’s written just has you wanting more from them both.
Really good, and I’m looking forward to where this goes next.
………………………………………………………….
I got an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
Really good!
I didn’t realise there was more than one book, so I’m happy that the next one is available to read now. I hate waiting 😆
I listened to this on Audible, and I thought the narrator was perfect for Kenny but not so much for Aaron, so I think I’ll just read the rest.
There’s a real likeness to Fred and Rose West in this book. From their names to their crimes to the aftermath. Lots of little nods to their story. Having watched a fair few documentaries on these two, it made this story feel super real and interesting. It doesn’t focus heavily on their crimes but rather the aftermath.
The story between Kenny and Aaron was very intriguing. Lots of bad decisions and toxic moments, but the way it’s written just has you wanting more from them both.
Really good, and I’m looking forward to where this goes next.
………………………………………………………….
I got an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
April 11, 2025
Well, that was an unique experience I had with this book. I started it not feeling that into it but then it kept getting better and better. Ultimately, I really liked it and I'm impressed at how much my opinion differs from the beginning. As a heads up: this book doesn't end in HEA/HFN for the couple as it is the start of a series and it is disclosed by the author at the beginning, but it isn't a bad ending either.
The story is about Aaron, a young guy who is interested in Kenny, an older man that turns out to be his professor at the university he's enrolled in. The mutual attraction is undeniable, but once Kenny discovers he is his student along with more things about Aaron's past, Kenny tries to draw a line. In the midst of everything, the body of a student from the campus is found dead and Kenny believes the killer is related to his sister's and Aaron's cases. The murderer might be on the hunt again.
I have to start by praising about how well the story delivered on the elements it intended, especially the forbidden attraction trope. The pull between the MCs is very present. I liked that it was Aaron pushing the buttons, playing with the power imbalance of their dynamic, and that the narrative was self-aware without it feeling obnoxious. There is the themes of mystery and crime as well, both keeping me at the edge of my seat.
Another thing to highlight was that the story introduced new themes organically and the change in perspectives actually helped to move it forward. The subplot about Rahul was upsetting, same as the one with the bully. The more the story advanced, the more Aaron's character turned out to have more depth besides the obsessive and feisty young guy going after his professor, it showed he is a person with values that fights agaisnt injustice and doesn't let assholes put him and others down. It shoved that he cared, he felt human, no matter what his nonchalant attitude wants to project as his mask.
At first, I felt more invested into those topics alone rather than the main relationship, but Kenny eventually won me over and I ended up believing in the relationship too. Kenny is a smart man that tries to be the responsible adult between both, but he's also an hypocrite and it was satisfying that the narrative called him out for not following his own preaching about honesty. Truth is, Kenny is a liar as much as Aaron, but in different ways: him lying about his attraction and lifestyle, while Aaron is lying about who he really is (inside and outside). This makes their dynamic interesting because both aren't exactly perfect, instead they make each other confront their secret demons.
Now onto the things that didn't entirely work for me:
-While this ultimately did happen, it took me some time to get used to the writting style. After the first few chapters, I felt that it flowed better and could finally get into the story.
-I wanted a bit more build up between MCs before their first meeting, because it felt a bit too much like instalust - a trope I'm not into. It wasn't until after the 30% where I actually felt they had chemistry, although I wished their dynamic wasn't only about attraction/obsession and there were some actual feelings involved too. I guess it'll be addressed later in the series.
-Kenny is supossed to be well versed in psychology but at one point he suggest Aaron to treat him and discover his repressed memories, which wouldn't work realistically speaking because of their closeness. As an expert, he should know that and even if he wants to, there was never a mention of this fact, as if he really believed he could "fix" Aaron. I guess that shows one of Kenny's flaws. I just prefer important facts not to be glossed over.
Ultimately, I thought the development between the couple felt natural, because sometimes it is taking two steps forward and one back. The ending was satisfying because things get wrapped up as best as possible and within the circumstances, it is fitting. I appreciated the good pacing and that the last pages set up a continuation. I really am hoping that book 2 has the dynamic reversed: Kenny being the chaser next time instead of Aaron. It is about time he's the one getting jealous, hoping Taylor can evoke that one him.
Overall, this was a really great start of a series. There are many great things introduced such as the psychological aspect, the complexity of the MCs (separately and in unison), a good murder mystery (a bit predictable but with a good pay off) and the intense push and pull between MCs made this work a solid book. Definitely looking forward to the upcoming ones.
-This was an ARC review.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: third person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
The story is about Aaron, a young guy who is interested in Kenny, an older man that turns out to be his professor at the university he's enrolled in. The mutual attraction is undeniable, but once Kenny discovers he is his student along with more things about Aaron's past, Kenny tries to draw a line. In the midst of everything, the body of a student from the campus is found dead and Kenny believes the killer is related to his sister's and Aaron's cases. The murderer might be on the hunt again.
I have to start by praising about how well the story delivered on the elements it intended, especially the forbidden attraction trope. The pull between the MCs is very present. I liked that it was Aaron pushing the buttons, playing with the power imbalance of their dynamic, and that the narrative was self-aware without it feeling obnoxious. There is the themes of mystery and crime as well, both keeping me at the edge of my seat.
Another thing to highlight was that the story introduced new themes organically and the change in perspectives actually helped to move it forward. The subplot about Rahul was upsetting, same as the one with the bully. The more the story advanced, the more Aaron's character turned out to have more depth besides the obsessive and feisty young guy going after his professor, it showed he is a person with values that fights agaisnt injustice and doesn't let assholes put him and others down. It shoved that he cared, he felt human, no matter what his nonchalant attitude wants to project as his mask.
At first, I felt more invested into those topics alone rather than the main relationship, but Kenny eventually won me over and I ended up believing in the relationship too. Kenny is a smart man that tries to be the responsible adult between both, but he's also an hypocrite and it was satisfying that the narrative called him out for not following his own preaching about honesty. Truth is, Kenny is a liar as much as Aaron, but in different ways: him lying about his attraction and lifestyle, while Aaron is lying about who he really is (inside and outside). This makes their dynamic interesting because both aren't exactly perfect, instead they make each other confront their secret demons.
Now onto the things that didn't entirely work for me:
-While this ultimately did happen, it took me some time to get used to the writting style. After the first few chapters, I felt that it flowed better and could finally get into the story.
-I wanted a bit more build up between MCs before their first meeting, because it felt a bit too much like instalust - a trope I'm not into. It wasn't until after the 30% where I actually felt they had chemistry, although I wished their dynamic wasn't only about attraction/obsession and there were some actual feelings involved too. I guess it'll be addressed later in the series.
-Kenny is supossed to be well versed in psychology but at one point he suggest Aaron to treat him and discover his repressed memories, which wouldn't work realistically speaking because of their closeness. As an expert, he should know that and even if he wants to, there was never a mention of this fact, as if he really believed he could "fix" Aaron. I guess that shows one of Kenny's flaws. I just prefer important facts not to be glossed over.
Ultimately, I thought the development between the couple felt natural, because sometimes it is taking two steps forward and one back. The ending was satisfying because things get wrapped up as best as possible and within the circumstances, it is fitting. I appreciated the good pacing and that the last pages set up a continuation. I really am hoping that book 2 has the dynamic reversed: Kenny being the chaser next time instead of Aaron. It is about time he's the one getting jealous, hoping Taylor can evoke that one him.
Overall, this was a really great start of a series. There are many great things introduced such as the psychological aspect, the complexity of the MCs (separately and in unison), a good murder mystery (a bit predictable but with a good pay off) and the intense push and pull between MCs made this work a solid book. Definitely looking forward to the upcoming ones.
-This was an ARC review.
Tags: (might miss some of them)
-POV: third person
-Content warnings:
-Elements:
-Sexual act(s):
-Dynamic:
March 2, 2025
Wow! I’m blown away by this gripping, dark, twisted, and intense psychological thriller. C.F. White is a master of suspense, and she brings her A-game with this new series. This is the true crime/serial killer x MM romance mashup you didn’t know you needed!
There are a lot of different kinds of relationships to unpack in this one - familial, romantic, platonic, and toxic - but let’s talk about the romance. It’s not a HEA or even a HFN…YET. In fact, both of the MCs spend most of this book dating other people despite their insanity-inducing level of chemistry. I’m not even sure this qualifies as a full-on romance, although it’s definitely building toward it, including some really hot, very intense encounters between Aaron & Kenny.
C.F. White has been upfront & honest about this being a series romance arc, and she’s definitely making us work for it. Their connection is undeniable, electric, end game kind of material - we know it and they know it - just buzzing between them waiting to combust. Unfortunately, their timing is terrible - think serial killers getting the way and all the cards stacked against them kinds of terrible. But I don’t know if I’ve ever shipped a couple harder or loved a character more for having the strength to walk away.
Every facet of this story brings that cold, chilling edge you'd expect from a psychological thriller. I haven’t been this alert and captivated by a story in quite some time; some of it's just the abject horror, deviance, & depravity necessary to carry out such cold, calculated crimes, but it’s also the slow, methodical way the story unfolds and secrets are revealed. Revelation after revelation will have you reeling and wondering where it could possibly end. Everything and everyone in this story is connected, so my advice is to buckle up and pay attention! It’s a wild ride. I can’t wait for more, and I’m pretty sure I’ll never look at roses the same way again.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
There are a lot of different kinds of relationships to unpack in this one - familial, romantic, platonic, and toxic - but let’s talk about the romance. It’s not a HEA or even a HFN…YET. In fact, both of the MCs spend most of this book dating other people despite their insanity-inducing level of chemistry. I’m not even sure this qualifies as a full-on romance, although it’s definitely building toward it, including some really hot, very intense encounters between Aaron & Kenny.
C.F. White has been upfront & honest about this being a series romance arc, and she’s definitely making us work for it. Their connection is undeniable, electric, end game kind of material - we know it and they know it - just buzzing between them waiting to combust. Unfortunately, their timing is terrible - think serial killers getting the way and all the cards stacked against them kinds of terrible. But I don’t know if I’ve ever shipped a couple harder or loved a character more for having the strength to walk away.
Every facet of this story brings that cold, chilling edge you'd expect from a psychological thriller. I haven’t been this alert and captivated by a story in quite some time; some of it's just the abject horror, deviance, & depravity necessary to carry out such cold, calculated crimes, but it’s also the slow, methodical way the story unfolds and secrets are revealed. Revelation after revelation will have you reeling and wondering where it could possibly end. Everything and everyone in this story is connected, so my advice is to buckle up and pay attention! It’s a wild ride. I can’t wait for more, and I’m pretty sure I’ll never look at roses the same way again.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
March 24, 2025
I am absolutely blown away. I am finding it hard to find words to describe how much I loved this book, it is utterly engrossing. This author has a captivatingly unique voice and the way the layers of suspense and reveals are built is genius. That prologue sent a deluge of questions through my mind and I was instantly hooked, unable to put it down but also self aware enough that I knew I didn’t want to rush through it. Parts of this book literally sent chills down my spine, there are Spectacular games of cat and mouse playing out, mind games where each word is a move on a live high stakes chess board.
Aaron and Kenny add their layers of the romantic plot development with a touch of forbidden age gap and student professor dynamic and with a fascinating push and pull, the author taking all the time to describe their compulsions and their obsession with each other.
Characters, their back stories, their motivations are fully fleshed out and presented in a most impactful way, inexorably pulling you in with language that is sublimely immersive. And that ending, more questions seeded into my brain and I need to read more, what happens next.
Book 2 is coming out later this month so highly recommend starting this series soon.
Expect:
* Suspense
* Dark academia
* Forbidden Student Professor
* Touch starved
* Hurt comfort
* Age gap
* Morally grey
* Psychological thriller
* Found family
* Slow burn
* Not an HEA yet
Aaron and Kenny add their layers of the romantic plot development with a touch of forbidden age gap and student professor dynamic and with a fascinating push and pull, the author taking all the time to describe their compulsions and their obsession with each other.
Characters, their back stories, their motivations are fully fleshed out and presented in a most impactful way, inexorably pulling you in with language that is sublimely immersive. And that ending, more questions seeded into my brain and I need to read more, what happens next.
Book 2 is coming out later this month so highly recommend starting this series soon.
Expect:
* Suspense
* Dark academia
* Forbidden Student Professor
* Touch starved
* Hurt comfort
* Age gap
* Morally grey
* Psychological thriller
* Found family
* Slow burn
* Not an HEA yet
December 22, 2025
My baby Aaron deserves all the love in the world, especially after everything he went through because of his parents.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- psychological thriller
- forbidden romance
- professor × student
- age gap
- hurt x comfort
- trauma bonding
- slow burn
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- psychological thriller
- forbidden romance
- professor × student
- age gap
- hurt x comfort
- trauma bonding
- slow burn
December 28, 2025
ARC review
I loved this book so much.
It's a first in a trilogy and I'm already dying for the rest.
Aaron had been through a lot in his short life and the only thing he wants is to someone to love him and understand him. He went through so much because of who his parents were and it wasn't fair.
Kenny helped arrest Aaron's parents and it's a case that haunts him.
These two shouldn't and can't be together for various reasons but it's not easy to ignore a connection like theirs.
I loved this book so much.
It's a first in a trilogy and I'm already dying for the rest.
Aaron had been through a lot in his short life and the only thing he wants is to someone to love him and understand him. He went through so much because of who his parents were and it wasn't fair.
Kenny helped arrest Aaron's parents and it's a case that haunts him.
These two shouldn't and can't be together for various reasons but it's not easy to ignore a connection like theirs.
Read
October 27, 2025dnf 23%
hooookkaayyy apparently cleaning out my KU shelves is just not going well for me.
the premise sounded awesome but the writing is meh? and it feels like the author keeps forgetting their own plan? one moment the MC knows who Kenny is before showing up in his class the next he...doesn't? one sec he seeks him out to establish that connection in the club and the next...he didn't know he'd end up in his class? yet five minutes later we again are told he signed up for the class to get close to Kenny?
pick a lane, won't ya? 🤷♀️
hooookkaayyy apparently cleaning out my KU shelves is just not going well for me.
the premise sounded awesome but the writing is meh? and it feels like the author keeps forgetting their own plan? one moment the MC knows who Kenny is before showing up in his class the next he...doesn't? one sec he seeks him out to establish that connection in the club and the next...he didn't know he'd end up in his class? yet five minutes later we again are told he signed up for the class to get close to Kenny?
pick a lane, won't ya? 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2025
Loved this one. Had my heart pounding from page one till the very end.
April 4, 2025
Where’s the Romance?
I DNF’d this book. I read up to the 55% mark (page 200 for me) and I just couldn’t continue. In the initial author blurb, they mention that this is essentially a romance, but I don’t see it at all. For the entirety of what I’ve read so far, Kenny is pining for his ex, or he’s reliving memories of their past (sometimes explicitly), or he’s with his current love interest Heather. There’s sexual tension between him and Aaron (the other MC), but nothing else. So, I have to ask having read more than half the book, where is the romance or even the chemistry between the two MC’s? It’s non-existent up to this point, and I don’t want to waste more time trying to chase it.
The plot itself is interesting. There’s a murder that connects the MCs pasts together that keeps the reader on edge. I like it, but not enough to keep me interested.
The writing style is geared more towards UK readers. I didn’t understand a lot of the slang and there were times when sentences were unfinished or just stopped and it made me question if it’s a UK thing, or if the story needed an editor? Not sure. It made the reading feel disjointed at times. Overall, not a book for me.
I DNF’d this book. I read up to the 55% mark (page 200 for me) and I just couldn’t continue. In the initial author blurb, they mention that this is essentially a romance, but I don’t see it at all. For the entirety of what I’ve read so far, Kenny is pining for his ex, or he’s reliving memories of their past (sometimes explicitly), or he’s with his current love interest Heather. There’s sexual tension between him and Aaron (the other MC), but nothing else. So, I have to ask having read more than half the book, where is the romance or even the chemistry between the two MC’s? It’s non-existent up to this point, and I don’t want to waste more time trying to chase it.
The plot itself is interesting. There’s a murder that connects the MCs pasts together that keeps the reader on edge. I like it, but not enough to keep me interested.
The writing style is geared more towards UK readers. I didn’t understand a lot of the slang and there were times when sentences were unfinished or just stopped and it made me question if it’s a UK thing, or if the story needed an editor? Not sure. It made the reading feel disjointed at times. Overall, not a book for me.
March 5, 2025
Insert a string of courses here because this book made me remember why I often read series only when all books are released and I just read an ARC so I have to wait even longer for the next book to be out… And I lovingly hate that!
I knew there was going to be a second (and third) book. But I suspected it to be standalone books.
Warning: they’re not. It’s the same couple. It’s slow burn. It’s so fucking slow it’s backwards. It ends not with a HEA but with a I-need-the-next-book-right-fucking-now. I don’t even know what to do with myself now…
I finished the book about an hour and a half on a weekday past my bedtime. Because I couldn’t stop reading because I needed them together. And then the author did that!
This book is amazing! I am obsessed!
I love psychological thrillers and I have no idea how accurate the things in the book are or if anything Kenny ever said while analyzing is true of if the author did her research while watching Criminal Minds. And I don’t care. It is amazing!
It felt real, it felt reasonable, it made sense.
Kenny’s and Aaron’s relationship… gosh, it is so sizzling on fire. I could feel their want and need through the pages and it burnt me with them.
It was so perfectly paced! I mean, I’ll pop champagne when they’ll finally be together, but all the pining hurt so good.
I really like that the professor actually sees and regards the problems that a relationship would bring. It’s often quite fast smoothed over and the characters are fine, but Kenny (in the end) actually heeds that they can’t be together. Yes, I hate him a teeny little bit for that too.
Aaron’s character.... he is very screwed up. Not sure how much therapy someone can take to overcome the shit he went through.
It took a while for him to be graspable and to see behind his facade.
Same with Kenny. He closed himself off from the world because he can see the darkness and the fucked-up-ness in everyone.
I think they both kind of just want to be happy and be loved and know that something in their heads is too twisted up to permit that.
I also have to mention the overall setting of the book because I could really see it in my mind. The eariness of a small-town college, somewhere in the British countryside. (I didn’t google the city, don’t tell me if it’s not).
The rainy weather and the fog on the riverbank. It feels like I know how it felt like walking through the muddy woods.
So… go preorder and read this book!
I’ll be here, nursing the hangover of bookish hangovers until the whole trilogy is out!!
PS: If someone is into fucked up manga, read In These Words, Volume 1
I pictured Kenny as Katsuya so much! The way he stood, with his glasses,...
Thank you GRR for allowing me to read this book early (I kinda lovingly hate you).
I knew there was going to be a second (and third) book. But I suspected it to be standalone books.
Warning: they’re not. It’s the same couple. It’s slow burn. It’s so fucking slow it’s backwards. It ends not with a HEA but with a I-need-the-next-book-right-fucking-now. I don’t even know what to do with myself now…
I finished the book about an hour and a half on a weekday past my bedtime. Because I couldn’t stop reading because I needed them together. And then the author did that!
He blinked, breaking the spell Aaron had over him before he could do something reckless, something that would shatter his very existence.
This book is amazing! I am obsessed!
He inhaled. The man smelled of cyanide. Ash. Ethanol and regret. And it fizzed on Aaron’s tongue as if he wanted to lick him and die. With him. Because of him.
I love psychological thrillers and I have no idea how accurate the things in the book are or if anything Kenny ever said while analyzing is true of if the author did her research while watching Criminal Minds. And I don’t care. It is amazing!
It felt real, it felt reasonable, it made sense.
Kenny’s and Aaron’s relationship… gosh, it is so sizzling on fire. I could feel their want and need through the pages and it burnt me with them.
It was so perfectly paced! I mean, I’ll pop champagne when they’ll finally be together, but all the pining hurt so good.
I really like that the professor actually sees and regards the problems that a relationship would bring. It’s often quite fast smoothed over and the characters are fine, but Kenny (in the end) actually heeds that they can’t be together. Yes, I hate him a teeny little bit for that too.
“What animal would you be, and why?”
“A fish.”
Heather scrunched up her nose. “A fish? Why a fish?”
“Because there aren’t any monsters in the sea. They all walk on land.”
Aaron’s character.... he is very screwed up. Not sure how much therapy someone can take to overcome the shit he went through.
It took a while for him to be graspable and to see behind his facade.
Same with Kenny. He closed himself off from the world because he can see the darkness and the fucked-up-ness in everyone.
I think they both kind of just want to be happy and be loved and know that something in their heads is too twisted up to permit that.
“I only run when I’m being chased.”
“Who says you’re not?”
I also have to mention the overall setting of the book because I could really see it in my mind. The eariness of a small-town college, somewhere in the British countryside. (I didn’t google the city, don’t tell me if it’s not).
The rainy weather and the fog on the riverbank. It feels like I know how it felt like walking through the muddy woods.
So… go preorder and read this book!
I’ll be here, nursing the hangover of bookish hangovers until the whole trilogy is out!!
Maybe there’s something in two broken souls needing the same thing, at the same time, then searching for it in the same place.
PS: If someone is into fucked up manga, read In These Words, Volume 1
I pictured Kenny as Katsuya so much! The way he stood, with his glasses,...
Thank you GRR for allowing me to read this book early (I kinda lovingly hate you).
February 21, 2025
Let me take a moment to breathe because WOW this book ATE.
I love books that deal with psychopaths, psychology and all that goodness and I haven't found the book that ticked all my boxes the way this one had. It has you in a chokehold and every second spent reading lures you deeper and deeper into the world crafted by the author. I just love it so much.
Aaron is kinda a cross between a psycho and an empathetic cutie pie. His snarky attitude, witty remarks and avoidance of things are a shield to hide his true self. His little obessession with his professor, Kenny, and later his craving for him break his walls a lot faster that a water ballon hitting the ground. His character is something that needs to be studied, for sure. I also love how much attention he needs and someone to dominate him but not just anyone. No, my boy needs Kenny's firm guidance.
Kenny is such a wholesome character. I love when he goes on his little psychological rants which Aaron loves. His position and age and career and all other outside factors prevent him from truly embracing his need for Aaron. The craving. The obsession. I actually loved seeing him slowly becoming obsessed with Aaron and how that obsession built up throughout the story.
All in all this was a book that had me staying up 'til the next day because of how good it was. It was well balanced. There wasn't anything lacking in my opinion and the twists and turns? They had my heart beating erratically.
Expect dark romance, age gap, mutual obsessed MCs, games of cat and mouse, steamy encounters, unhinged twink, cute precious scenes that really soothe the soul and a lot more crazy shenanigans.
//ARC Review//
I love books that deal with psychopaths, psychology and all that goodness and I haven't found the book that ticked all my boxes the way this one had. It has you in a chokehold and every second spent reading lures you deeper and deeper into the world crafted by the author. I just love it so much.
Aaron is kinda a cross between a psycho and an empathetic cutie pie. His snarky attitude, witty remarks and avoidance of things are a shield to hide his true self. His little obessession with his professor, Kenny, and later his craving for him break his walls a lot faster that a water ballon hitting the ground. His character is something that needs to be studied, for sure. I also love how much attention he needs and someone to dominate him but not just anyone. No, my boy needs Kenny's firm guidance.
Kenny is such a wholesome character. I love when he goes on his little psychological rants which Aaron loves. His position and age and career and all other outside factors prevent him from truly embracing his need for Aaron. The craving. The obsession. I actually loved seeing him slowly becoming obsessed with Aaron and how that obsession built up throughout the story.
All in all this was a book that had me staying up 'til the next day because of how good it was. It was well balanced. There wasn't anything lacking in my opinion and the twists and turns? They had my heart beating erratically.
Expect dark romance, age gap, mutual obsessed MCs, games of cat and mouse, steamy encounters, unhinged twink, cute precious scenes that really soothe the soul and a lot more crazy shenanigans.
//ARC Review//
March 10, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This is a great start to a new series by CF White and I really liked the set up and the characters. We first see Aaron as a young boy being removed from his home as his parents are being arrested for a series of murders. We then move forward to Aaron starting college and his life in between has been one of trauma, assault, and violence. It’s a tragedy what happens to him as he’s put into care and doesn’t get any help. He was forbidden to use the internet and he was unable to search out any information on his parents until he was 16. He’s now seeking out Kenny because he knows that Kenny was involved in his parents’ case and the two of them have a connection that runs deep. Neither one of them expected the red hot, obsessive attraction between them.
The mystery here was not difficult to solve, as the killer was easily seen in plain sight, but the overall story of it illuminates Aaron’s past a little more. This series is a trilogy and with Aaron’s mother an on-page character from prison, it will be a twisted path of discovery of where this will go. The match has already been lit on the chemistry between Aaron and Kenny, but it will be a long road to get them together as they valiantly fight the inevitable.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This is a great start to a new series by CF White and I really liked the set up and the characters. We first see Aaron as a young boy being removed from his home as his parents are being arrested for a series of murders. We then move forward to Aaron starting college and his life in between has been one of trauma, assault, and violence. It’s a tragedy what happens to him as he’s put into care and doesn’t get any help. He was forbidden to use the internet and he was unable to search out any information on his parents until he was 16. He’s now seeking out Kenny because he knows that Kenny was involved in his parents’ case and the two of them have a connection that runs deep. Neither one of them expected the red hot, obsessive attraction between them.
The mystery here was not difficult to solve, as the killer was easily seen in plain sight, but the overall story of it illuminates Aaron’s past a little more. This series is a trilogy and with Aaron’s mother an on-page character from prison, it will be a twisted path of discovery of where this will go. The match has already been lit on the chemistry between Aaron and Kenny, but it will be a long road to get them together as they valiantly fight the inevitable.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
March 4, 2025
I really wanted to give this book 4 stars because honestly the ending didn’t do the rest of the book justice. It felt simple predictable and flats compared to the rest of the book and the emotions i felt until then! But that just wouldn’t be fair to the rest of the book because my whole reading experience - until the last hundred pages, was OMG 5 ⭐️ read….
Soooo because this is the first book in a series and this is my first read of this author I am going to give it five stars but be very strict on my rating of the second book!
Soooo because this is the first book in a series and this is my first read of this author I am going to give it five stars but be very strict on my rating of the second book!
March 23, 2025
Dream a Little Dream is the first book in the To Love a Psycho series. This is the story of Aaron who's parents were infamous serial killers and Kenny (Dr Kenneth Lyons) his professor a renowned criminal psychologist. I love dark books about crime mysteries. I loved this story so much, it kept me at the edge of my seat. I felt so bad for Aaron and all he has gone through because of who his parents are. I wanted to yell at Kenny because of some of the decisions he makes through the story. I did want more of the romance between the guys but understand that this is just the first book in the trilogy. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
May 7, 2025
Wow! Just wow!
Definitely not the romance I anticipated. Ignore the cover. This book floored me. It was so much more intense than I expected. I don’t have the brain power to say this gracefully, so pardon my bluntness. There wasn’t much in the way of hot and heavy scenes. I think this was strategic. I don’t feel bored or even bereft. ‘Edged’ is my best descriptor. I am curious about what comes next.
Definitely not the romance I anticipated. Ignore the cover. This book floored me. It was so much more intense than I expected. I don’t have the brain power to say this gracefully, so pardon my bluntness. There wasn’t much in the way of hot and heavy scenes. I think this was strategic. I don’t feel bored or even bereft. ‘Edged’ is my best descriptor. I am curious about what comes next.
January 5, 2026
4.25
I am obsessed!
Literally obsessed! This books is a roller coaster!
Student/professor—— the student is the child of serial killers that the professor helped captured. I mean WTF!
This story is so captivating like I was hooked and I will need more! I will be reading the second book asap because I need to know what happens next! Aaron and Kenny are wild and had me shooked to my core!
I am obsessed!
Literally obsessed! This books is a roller coaster!
Student/professor—— the student is the child of serial killers that the professor helped captured. I mean WTF!
This story is so captivating like I was hooked and I will need more! I will be reading the second book asap because I need to know what happens next! Aaron and Kenny are wild and had me shooked to my core!
March 2, 2025
I love this book, I don't give 5 stars because of the cliffhanger
The chemistry between Kenny and Aaron is awesome but we have to wait for the next books of the series
If you don't like books with cliffhangers you have to wait for the wholw series is out but the first one is worth the try
The chemistry between Kenny and Aaron is awesome but we have to wait for the next books of the series
If you don't like books with cliffhangers you have to wait for the wholw series is out but the first one is worth the try
September 27, 2025
This book had me hooked from the very first line. Dream a Little Dream is an intoxicating blend of psychological suspense, forbidden romance, and chilling mystery that kept me on edge the entire time.
Aaron Jones, 19, is the kind of character who lingers in your mind long after you turn the last page; beautifully broken, dangerously compelling, and carrying the weight of a haunting legacy.
And then there’s Dr. Kenneth Lyons, 40, the professor who should know better but can’t resist the pull of his enigmatic student.
Their connection crackles with tension, blurring every boundary until obsession takes hold.
The writing is sharp, atmospheric, and laced with an eerie sense of foreboding. As the bodies pile up and the past comes creeping back, the question isn’t just who the real monster is, it’s whether Kenny and Aaron will survive each other.
Also, this story is best experienced firsthand, with its twists and revelations left unspoiled.
If you love dark academia, forbidden attraction, and a psychological thriller that grips you by the throat, this book is a must-read. I’m already dying for the next instalment!
Part of the gripping trilogy of obsession, psychological tension, and dark romance To Love a Psycho, and must be read in order:
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2025
This was a delightful slow burn dark romance. I have been reading more slow burn romance and it is very different than the normal steamy erotica I go for. There was one scene that was so so vivid and then the rest of the book was world and character building. I will definitely continue the series. I appreciate that this was not too formulaic. I understand there are beats to hit when writing romance. The tropes that were included were great. Looking forward to more from this author.
December 29, 2025
Just whoa 😳! What a great read from CF White, Dream A Little Dream is quite a chilling read, where the MC's idyllic image of his family shatters, revealing a horrifying truth lurking beneath the surface.
Aaron, a university student struggles, as he grapples with the devastating implications of his parents' actions, for his own identity. This is the theme of the story throughout, just how innocent is Aaron? From the beginning of the story, it's obvious that he is a badly troubled young man, and has you wondering what he's really capable of. His back story really did make me feel for him, he's young, beautiful, but so scarred mentally, always wondering, 'what if ?'
I really liked Kenny for Aaron, even though he has his own problems. I felt that they were good for each other. Aaron 'acts out' throughout the story, but deep down he's hurting badly. Kenny recognises this, and though the feelings they have for one another are strong, they aren't resolved in this book. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, to see how things develop between them.
Fresh off the final chapter of the audible version, I’m still reeling from the emotional weight of this performance. Piers Ryman doesn’t just read the story; he inhabits it, performing with a level of empathy that makes the horror feel real and the romance feel earned. This is a first class version of character driven storytelling, focusing on two men, Kenny and Aaron, who are as secretive as they are flawed. Piers' voice captures every nuance, the friction of Kenny trying to keep his distance, and the vulnerability of Aaron’s longing for the peace and stability Kenny's presence provides.
Aaron, a university student struggles, as he grapples with the devastating implications of his parents' actions, for his own identity. This is the theme of the story throughout, just how innocent is Aaron? From the beginning of the story, it's obvious that he is a badly troubled young man, and has you wondering what he's really capable of. His back story really did make me feel for him, he's young, beautiful, but so scarred mentally, always wondering, 'what if ?'
I really liked Kenny for Aaron, even though he has his own problems. I felt that they were good for each other. Aaron 'acts out' throughout the story, but deep down he's hurting badly. Kenny recognises this, and though the feelings they have for one another are strong, they aren't resolved in this book. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, to see how things develop between them.
Fresh off the final chapter of the audible version, I’m still reeling from the emotional weight of this performance. Piers Ryman doesn’t just read the story; he inhabits it, performing with a level of empathy that makes the horror feel real and the romance feel earned. This is a first class version of character driven storytelling, focusing on two men, Kenny and Aaron, who are as secretive as they are flawed. Piers' voice captures every nuance, the friction of Kenny trying to keep his distance, and the vulnerability of Aaron’s longing for the peace and stability Kenny's presence provides.
October 22, 2025
4.25/5 stars! Umm. Excuse me!?!?! Someone wrote a book in a series called "To Love a Psycho" and I get the honor of reading it!?!?!?!? Yes please. I am obsessed with dark romance and crime thrillers, so I was so pumped to read this. I really liked watching these characters develop. I also loved the care the professor took to be caring despite Aaron's traumatic past. I wish there hadn't been a cliffhanger. I am eager to read the next book asap.
March 3, 2025
One for people who are good with reality rather than ideality. This book did not work for me on a few levels.
People who like psychological suspense may enjoy this read. For Me reasons, I enjoyed until I did not. IYK me, YK what’s coming next. The element wasn’t included in the TWs.
This book includes one MC Aaron long after the two MCs are very, VERY into each other. The story also includes 10-years-ago backstory scenes for the other MC Kenneth “Kenny” with his ex, including Some will say you needed to see it to get the exes’ past dynamic. I say, really, ma’am, no I did not. It gave the Kenny’s-ex thread equal to or even more weight than the current MCs’ romance. It would have been enough for romantic conflict that the ex is part of the present story too, but, honestly, it started to read like the start of a second-chance romance for Kenny and his ex. And the hints that Kenny and ex and ex's new person are all gonna wind up being bestest buddies was not my thing. Kenny knowing more about what his ex needs than ex's new-person does? Working through their past to resolve it as part of this present story? Hmm. Could have worked for romantic conflict, but, it took over too much. And Kenny listening to the ex rather than his own gut about what Aaron wanted and needed...not great.
But back to our supposed MCs and their story. The forbidden professor-student romantic conflict alone is intense, and I ate up the convoluted, seriously messed-up backstory connection for these two. Aaron, the student, is quite the intriguing character, son of serial killers, studying forensic psychology...and fixated on a person who impacted him in the distant past, who was on-scene when his parents were caught. MC Kenny (which tbh I don’t love the nickname and kinda grimaced at it every time) is the psychologist consultant and now-professor who consulted on Aaron’s parents’ case in the past, a man whose identity Aaron knew when he deliberately signed up for his criminal psychology course in uni.
The main story opens with a hot unforgettable hookup with Aaron and Kenny at a club. Then...Kenny turns out to be Aaron’s professor for his course at uni. Cue much consternation from Kenny, and much intense pushing the boundaries from Aaron. Loved the tension, the dynamic, the obsession-y feel without it going over the top. I could have totally loved this read. But I was also confused as to whether Aaron knew who Kenny was in the club—I’d assumed yes, but later it seems no, which, given he knew his name for sure, did not make sense because he’d have looked up his photo. But didn’t? I may have read it wrong. (Kenny does NOT know who Aaron is)
Things get even more twisted and exciting as a murder happens on campus that points straight to the past, then Kenny’s ex comes back on stage, and Aaron...well, how involved might he really be? Although, come on, it took Kenny way too long to confirm the connection. When it’s that obvious to the reader, the MC should get it sooner.
The story devolved for me when the main antagonist got a huge neon sign pointing to his head for the reader, and the two people most involved in the past case didn’t have a clue, which made them look incompetent. I was also confused as to why there was even any question at first that the murder was a murder when there was very clearly no question about it. Aaron coming under suspicion was entertaining though, that part I enjoyed.
The Nope (for me) happened at 81%, and the book died for me there. If I hadn’t been reading an ARC, I’d have dnf’d. I felt gaslit by the truly fabulous “he’s mine” moment earlier, and then the jump to the new situation. It became a watered-down, not-so-obsessed obsession trope, and I lost interest in the MCs as a couple. The epilogue truly killed the romance dead, revealing that six months later and that was unheroic and killed any sense of romance. Plus, Kenny became a more paternal figure, which...icky. That was my sense of it. But I do believe many people will enjoy this and be eager for book 2. I won’t be continuing.
The Academy Award for best supporting character goes to Aaron’s mom for being fascinating.
No HEA/HFN, open-ends with MCs not together and one in a very lukewarm No literal cheating, but both MCs dating other people, and one sleeping with the other person. Not a safe or good read for me, I am honestly sad to say (I’ve enjoyed a ton of the author’s previous work, so, my assumption was that it would be safe, which no doubt made me react even worse, I admit.). But, folks without my particular issues who love psychological romantic suspense may enjoy the book as the entry into what I believe is to be a trilogy about these two MCs. Read at your discretion.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
People who like psychological suspense may enjoy this read. For Me reasons, I enjoyed until I did not. IYK me, YK what’s coming next. The element wasn’t included in the TWs.
This book includes one MC Aaron long after the two MCs are very, VERY into each other. The story also includes 10-years-ago backstory scenes for the other MC Kenneth “Kenny” with his ex, including Some will say you needed to see it to get the exes’ past dynamic. I say, really, ma’am, no I did not. It gave the Kenny’s-ex thread equal to or even more weight than the current MCs’ romance. It would have been enough for romantic conflict that the ex is part of the present story too, but, honestly, it started to read like the start of a second-chance romance for Kenny and his ex. And the hints that Kenny and ex and ex's new person are all gonna wind up being bestest buddies was not my thing. Kenny knowing more about what his ex needs than ex's new-person does? Working through their past to resolve it as part of this present story? Hmm. Could have worked for romantic conflict, but, it took over too much. And Kenny listening to the ex rather than his own gut about what Aaron wanted and needed...not great.
But back to our supposed MCs and their story. The forbidden professor-student romantic conflict alone is intense, and I ate up the convoluted, seriously messed-up backstory connection for these two. Aaron, the student, is quite the intriguing character, son of serial killers, studying forensic psychology...and fixated on a person who impacted him in the distant past, who was on-scene when his parents were caught. MC Kenny (which tbh I don’t love the nickname and kinda grimaced at it every time) is the psychologist consultant and now-professor who consulted on Aaron’s parents’ case in the past, a man whose identity Aaron knew when he deliberately signed up for his criminal psychology course in uni.
The main story opens with a hot unforgettable hookup with Aaron and Kenny at a club. Then...Kenny turns out to be Aaron’s professor for his course at uni. Cue much consternation from Kenny, and much intense pushing the boundaries from Aaron. Loved the tension, the dynamic, the obsession-y feel without it going over the top. I could have totally loved this read. But I was also confused as to whether Aaron knew who Kenny was in the club—I’d assumed yes, but later it seems no, which, given he knew his name for sure, did not make sense because he’d have looked up his photo. But didn’t? I may have read it wrong. (Kenny does NOT know who Aaron is)
Things get even more twisted and exciting as a murder happens on campus that points straight to the past, then Kenny’s ex comes back on stage, and Aaron...well, how involved might he really be? Although, come on, it took Kenny way too long to confirm the connection. When it’s that obvious to the reader, the MC should get it sooner.
The story devolved for me when the main antagonist got a huge neon sign pointing to his head for the reader, and the two people most involved in the past case didn’t have a clue, which made them look incompetent. I was also confused as to why there was even any question at first that the murder was a murder when there was very clearly no question about it. Aaron coming under suspicion was entertaining though, that part I enjoyed.
The Nope (for me) happened at 81%, and the book died for me there. If I hadn’t been reading an ARC, I’d have dnf’d. I felt gaslit by the truly fabulous “he’s mine” moment earlier, and then the jump to the new situation. It became a watered-down, not-so-obsessed obsession trope, and I lost interest in the MCs as a couple. The epilogue truly killed the romance dead, revealing that six months later and that was unheroic and killed any sense of romance. Plus, Kenny became a more paternal figure, which...icky. That was my sense of it. But I do believe many people will enjoy this and be eager for book 2. I won’t be continuing.
The Academy Award for best supporting character goes to Aaron’s mom for being fascinating.
No HEA/HFN, open-ends with MCs not together and one in a very lukewarm No literal cheating, but both MCs dating other people, and one sleeping with the other person. Not a safe or good read for me, I am honestly sad to say (I’ve enjoyed a ton of the author’s previous work, so, my assumption was that it would be safe, which no doubt made me react even worse, I admit.). But, folks without my particular issues who love psychological romantic suspense may enjoy the book as the entry into what I believe is to be a trilogy about these two MCs. Read at your discretion.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
March 6, 2025
Dream a Little Dream is the first book in a three-book series, ‘To Love a Psycho.’ It stars Kenneth ‘Kenny’ Lyons, renowned criminal psychologist and professor, and Aaron Jones, a dark, and troubled, new student. This is told in third person from Kenny and Aaron’s povs.
Wow, this book is intense! I don’t think I can write a review that will do this book justice. I want to mention that I don’t usually read books like this because they are dark, but I love this author’s stories so I couldn’t pass this up. They have an incredible ability to draw a reader into the setting, and into the characters’ minds and emotions. I’ve read many of their other books and for me, this book deals more with emotions and psychology than with settings, which seemed more obvious in the other series I've read. Be aware this first book is not a romance; it’s more of a mystery/suspense with info handed out in bits and pieces. The blurb does a good job of describing the plot. Other than that, I don’t want to explain anything more about it because it’ll ruin the suspense. This is not just about who the killer is, but also the psychological trauma that both Kenny and Aaron carry with them and how they both struggle to not succumb to it.
The book starts with a scene from the past that lays the groundwork for what happens in the rest of the story. There is another chapter where there’s a jump back in time before the first chapter, which involves Kenny’s relationship with Jack and what caused their breakup. Some people might not like it, I thought it gave good info on how Kenny always psychoanalyzed everyone, even Jack, his boyfriend. Kenny never shut off. Later, there’s Kenny dating as he tries to force himself to lead a normal life but felt nothing and could only think of Aaron. That too, some people might not like, but the semi-relationship is important to the story. This isn’t just about the relationship between Kenny and Aaron, but the other people revolving around them that get pulled into their orbit.
Kenny and Aaron are explosive together. The blistering tension ramps up as Aaron pushes Kenny’s buttons, either sexually, emotionally, or mentally. Aaron is upfront about his attraction and desire for Kenny. But Kenny is determined to stay away from his young student. However, Aaron is a dark mystery wrapped up in a conundrum that draws Kenny in. The characters gravitate around each other only to slingshot away for a short time. I don’t want to describe their personalities too much because who they are as people is part of the tension. I will say that Kenny wants to find a normal partner and knows that Aaron is not that. And Aaron also wants some semblance of stability. This brings up the last couple of chapters. As I mentioned, Aaron is very forward about wanting to be with Kenny, and Kenny pushes him away. So, what does Aaron do? He pushes Kenny’s button to get jealous letting him know he’s going to be with someone else. Remember, this is what Kenny wants for Aaron, to be young and find out what he wants on his own. Aaron goes to Tony who has pursued Aaron since the beginning, but Aaron thinks something like, ‘he doesn’t give Tony everything.’ Now that could mean his heart, or full sex. Aaron is quite capable of keeping Tony waiting, and Aaron wants Kenny. For me, if Kenny is pushing Aaron away, Aaron can see whomever he wants, Aaron has been turned down. He doesn’t have to wait around like a forsaken maiden. He isn’t cheating.
There are parts that I found disturbing, but I was able to get through them. I’m sure most people won’t have a problem. The one person who gave me the creeps however, was Aaron’s mother, Roisin. She was all about playing some game, even from prison.
One thing that didn’t work for me in the book, is Roisin having a crochet hook at the prison. That could be used as a weapon, and considering what she did, I’m surprised she was allowed to have one, and I don’t know why the author wrote that part of the story that way.
This book is like a serial movie/TV show, or a fantasy series taking place over several books. So, I wouldn’t call the ending a cliff-hanger, although some people might. The mystery dealing with this book is solved. However, the over-arching mystery of what kind of game Roisin is playing, and who else might be involved, is still unanswered.
Dream a Little Dream is a fantastic read with a terrific plot, and complex characters. I highly recommend this. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series which is, Kiss Me Honey, Honey. I give this story a solid 5 Stars.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest and unbiased review.
Wow, this book is intense! I don’t think I can write a review that will do this book justice. I want to mention that I don’t usually read books like this because they are dark, but I love this author’s stories so I couldn’t pass this up. They have an incredible ability to draw a reader into the setting, and into the characters’ minds and emotions. I’ve read many of their other books and for me, this book deals more with emotions and psychology than with settings, which seemed more obvious in the other series I've read. Be aware this first book is not a romance; it’s more of a mystery/suspense with info handed out in bits and pieces. The blurb does a good job of describing the plot. Other than that, I don’t want to explain anything more about it because it’ll ruin the suspense. This is not just about who the killer is, but also the psychological trauma that both Kenny and Aaron carry with them and how they both struggle to not succumb to it.
The book starts with a scene from the past that lays the groundwork for what happens in the rest of the story. There is another chapter where there’s a jump back in time before the first chapter, which involves Kenny’s relationship with Jack and what caused their breakup. Some people might not like it, I thought it gave good info on how Kenny always psychoanalyzed everyone, even Jack, his boyfriend. Kenny never shut off. Later, there’s Kenny dating as he tries to force himself to lead a normal life but felt nothing and could only think of Aaron. That too, some people might not like, but the semi-relationship is important to the story. This isn’t just about the relationship between Kenny and Aaron, but the other people revolving around them that get pulled into their orbit.
Kenny and Aaron are explosive together. The blistering tension ramps up as Aaron pushes Kenny’s buttons, either sexually, emotionally, or mentally. Aaron is upfront about his attraction and desire for Kenny. But Kenny is determined to stay away from his young student. However, Aaron is a dark mystery wrapped up in a conundrum that draws Kenny in. The characters gravitate around each other only to slingshot away for a short time. I don’t want to describe their personalities too much because who they are as people is part of the tension. I will say that Kenny wants to find a normal partner and knows that Aaron is not that. And Aaron also wants some semblance of stability. This brings up the last couple of chapters. As I mentioned, Aaron is very forward about wanting to be with Kenny, and Kenny pushes him away. So, what does Aaron do? He pushes Kenny’s button to get jealous letting him know he’s going to be with someone else. Remember, this is what Kenny wants for Aaron, to be young and find out what he wants on his own. Aaron goes to Tony who has pursued Aaron since the beginning, but Aaron thinks something like, ‘he doesn’t give Tony everything.’ Now that could mean his heart, or full sex. Aaron is quite capable of keeping Tony waiting, and Aaron wants Kenny. For me, if Kenny is pushing Aaron away, Aaron can see whomever he wants, Aaron has been turned down. He doesn’t have to wait around like a forsaken maiden. He isn’t cheating.
There are parts that I found disturbing, but I was able to get through them. I’m sure most people won’t have a problem. The one person who gave me the creeps however, was Aaron’s mother, Roisin. She was all about playing some game, even from prison.
One thing that didn’t work for me in the book, is Roisin having a crochet hook at the prison. That could be used as a weapon, and considering what she did, I’m surprised she was allowed to have one, and I don’t know why the author wrote that part of the story that way.
This book is like a serial movie/TV show, or a fantasy series taking place over several books. So, I wouldn’t call the ending a cliff-hanger, although some people might. The mystery dealing with this book is solved. However, the over-arching mystery of what kind of game Roisin is playing, and who else might be involved, is still unanswered.
Dream a Little Dream is a fantastic read with a terrific plot, and complex characters. I highly recommend this. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series which is, Kiss Me Honey, Honey. I give this story a solid 5 Stars.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest and unbiased review.
December 1, 2025
I received this book, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dream a Little Dream, by CF White, is a dark academia romance about overcoming past regrets to pursue a life full of happiness, loss, and everything in between.
Aaron Jones is the alias of a man who has hidden himself away from his parents’ sins and his horrific memories. Now 19 years old, Aaron attends the University of Ryston, where he runs into the infamous Dr. Kenneth Lyons, a psychology professor specializing in criminal forensics. As the two become inexplicably drawn to one another, echoes of a terrible crime come screeching back. Soon, Aaron is confronted with a choice: would he repeat his family’s bloody legacy, or will he plunge into the nightmare and see if there’s anything worth saving?
I love the complexities that Aaron and Kenneth bring into the relationship. White doesn’t just package everything into a neat little bow; both characters’ demons are incredibly messy. They need to build themselves up before they can hope to attempt a somewhat stable relationship, a harsh lesson for anyone involved. Moreover, the seductive tension between these two hooks readers, trapping them not necessarily in a will-they-won’t-they hell, but giving us just enough to want more. Many authors will fill their books with sex before the payout even happens; I’ll tilt my head, shrug my shoulders, and walk away because, aside from those insanely hot scenes, there really isn’t much substance. However, White allows the buildup to happen, making me salivate for more. That’s what sequels are for. She can’t just yank that away from me. Not from my cold, dead hands.
I also enjoy the horror-mystery aspect of the book. Rose reminds me of Eddy Gluskin from Outlast. How much of her delusion remains to be seen, since she is clearly savvy enough to make her will known outside her confinement. She is able to perform the mental gymnastics necessary to avoid accountability, and while she’s so wraped up in herself to pursue any meaningful relationship with her family, it’s obvious she wants one. How she goes about it doesn’t really cross her mind. It’s the same with Eddy Gluskin; he wants to turn men into women to marry them, or so he says. Unfortunately, his desire for a family is a mask for his bloodlust, killing women to satisfy his urges. Every time someone confronts him, Eddy dives deeper into his delusion. I don’t know enough about Rose to see if she does the same thing, but I do know the similarities between the two characters are uncanny.
White delves into the theme of obsession with a gentleness that isn’t common in the dark romance genre. Kenneth is aware of his own monsters, as well as Aaron’s, and even his parents, and tries to navigate them without killing everyone involved. Obviously, we know that co-dependency is not sexy in real life; we want partners who are independent, who are able to function without us. It might not sound like the most romantic thing (and of course, I’m not a psychologist or a professor, but I am a mental health professional WHO can quote the CACREP standards, and I KNOW that doing therapeutic work on Aaron when you’re his SOMEWHAT BOYFRIEND isn’t just unethical but could also damage him further), but it’s the truth. I admire Kenneth’s restraint, even though it also frustrates me to no end.
I will be on the lookout for White’s next books. I want to see the darkness that Aaron and Kenneth are willing to go down, and how much of themselves they’re willing to give to each other before they hit their breaking point. I want to see Aaron process more of his traumas with Kenneth by his side. The world-building is absolutely wonderful, and the side characters have just enough personality to let readers know that there is a wonderful, supportive world waiting for Aaron and Kenneth; they just have to get out of their own heads. As such, I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, Then She was Gone by Lisa Jewell, and Gothikana by RuNyk.
Dream a Little Dream, by CF White, is a dark academia romance about overcoming past regrets to pursue a life full of happiness, loss, and everything in between.
Aaron Jones is the alias of a man who has hidden himself away from his parents’ sins and his horrific memories. Now 19 years old, Aaron attends the University of Ryston, where he runs into the infamous Dr. Kenneth Lyons, a psychology professor specializing in criminal forensics. As the two become inexplicably drawn to one another, echoes of a terrible crime come screeching back. Soon, Aaron is confronted with a choice: would he repeat his family’s bloody legacy, or will he plunge into the nightmare and see if there’s anything worth saving?
I love the complexities that Aaron and Kenneth bring into the relationship. White doesn’t just package everything into a neat little bow; both characters’ demons are incredibly messy. They need to build themselves up before they can hope to attempt a somewhat stable relationship, a harsh lesson for anyone involved. Moreover, the seductive tension between these two hooks readers, trapping them not necessarily in a will-they-won’t-they hell, but giving us just enough to want more. Many authors will fill their books with sex before the payout even happens; I’ll tilt my head, shrug my shoulders, and walk away because, aside from those insanely hot scenes, there really isn’t much substance. However, White allows the buildup to happen, making me salivate for more. That’s what sequels are for. She can’t just yank that away from me. Not from my cold, dead hands.
I also enjoy the horror-mystery aspect of the book. Rose reminds me of Eddy Gluskin from Outlast. How much of her delusion remains to be seen, since she is clearly savvy enough to make her will known outside her confinement. She is able to perform the mental gymnastics necessary to avoid accountability, and while she’s so wraped up in herself to pursue any meaningful relationship with her family, it’s obvious she wants one. How she goes about it doesn’t really cross her mind. It’s the same with Eddy Gluskin; he wants to turn men into women to marry them, or so he says. Unfortunately, his desire for a family is a mask for his bloodlust, killing women to satisfy his urges. Every time someone confronts him, Eddy dives deeper into his delusion. I don’t know enough about Rose to see if she does the same thing, but I do know the similarities between the two characters are uncanny.
White delves into the theme of obsession with a gentleness that isn’t common in the dark romance genre. Kenneth is aware of his own monsters, as well as Aaron’s, and even his parents, and tries to navigate them without killing everyone involved. Obviously, we know that co-dependency is not sexy in real life; we want partners who are independent, who are able to function without us. It might not sound like the most romantic thing (and of course, I’m not a psychologist or a professor, but I am a mental health professional WHO can quote the CACREP standards, and I KNOW that doing therapeutic work on Aaron when you’re his SOMEWHAT BOYFRIEND isn’t just unethical but could also damage him further), but it’s the truth. I admire Kenneth’s restraint, even though it also frustrates me to no end.
I will be on the lookout for White’s next books. I want to see the darkness that Aaron and Kenneth are willing to go down, and how much of themselves they’re willing to give to each other before they hit their breaking point. I want to see Aaron process more of his traumas with Kenneth by his side. The world-building is absolutely wonderful, and the side characters have just enough personality to let readers know that there is a wonderful, supportive world waiting for Aaron and Kenneth; they just have to get out of their own heads. As such, I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, Then She was Gone by Lisa Jewell, and Gothikana by RuNyk.
January 1, 2026
THIS BOOK!!!!!! THIS BOOOOOOOK, OMG.
Dream a Little Dream, is a romantic thriller. It is a story about two men who's paths get intertwined again after years... a story about loss, trauma, obsession and lust so powerful you feel like you are losing your mind.
I went into this book blindly and because of that I did not know what to expect. I only knew it is an age gap student/teacher. I expected forbidden because of that, not because of the actual reason this relationship was forbidden. It blew my mind in the best possible way.
This story was heartbreaking in a way, but it also gave me hope.
I've met Aaron first in "All wrapped up" and I have been curious about him ever since. I needed to know what is that made him the way he was in that book. I am so glad I got my answer.
Aaron's story is not easy to read about. He is a kid that is the result of phycho parents and a system that failed him. To be honest he turned out better than one would expect given the circumstances.
Kenny Lyons is a criminal psychologist, he has been obsessed with this case for years now and that made it hard for him on a personal level. He was already kind of struggling as it was, but Aaron Jones really came into his life and turned it upside down... again.
These two were meant to meet. They were meant to be exactly what each other needed, what each other craved. They were meant to be part of one another's life and find love, acceptance and finally ( at the end of the series I guess ) in each others arms and hearts.
Due to the fact that this is a thriller, I won't say much when it comes to the plot because it is very interesting to read and see for yourself the way things unfold, but what I will say is that Aaron and Kenny really are two pieces of the same soul that finally found their way to each other, even if it was in those circumstances and at the wrong time.
I cannot wait to see where this series takes us next. Dream a Little Dream is for sure one of my fav reads of 2025 and a book that I will re-read multiple times.
Do not expect this one to be spicy or overly romantic. The romance is not your typical kind of romance, it is there but it is in small doses and in the little things. This story is plot driven, but also character driven on a more individual level, if you want.
I am still thinking about how best to describe this book, but I do not have the right words. I think I might come back and write more on my review on my re-read. Until then, please pick up this book and give this series a chance, I highly doubt you will regret it.
I am still shocked that this is not more popular, it definitely deserves more hype and more love.
10 stars. I can't wait to go and read the next one and see what comes next for Dr Kenneth Lyons and our broken boy, Aaron.
Dream a Little Dream, is a romantic thriller. It is a story about two men who's paths get intertwined again after years... a story about loss, trauma, obsession and lust so powerful you feel like you are losing your mind.
I went into this book blindly and because of that I did not know what to expect. I only knew it is an age gap student/teacher. I expected forbidden because of that, not because of the actual reason this relationship was forbidden. It blew my mind in the best possible way.
This story was heartbreaking in a way, but it also gave me hope.
I've met Aaron first in "All wrapped up" and I have been curious about him ever since. I needed to know what is that made him the way he was in that book. I am so glad I got my answer.
Aaron's story is not easy to read about. He is a kid that is the result of phycho parents and a system that failed him. To be honest he turned out better than one would expect given the circumstances.
Kenny Lyons is a criminal psychologist, he has been obsessed with this case for years now and that made it hard for him on a personal level. He was already kind of struggling as it was, but Aaron Jones really came into his life and turned it upside down... again.
These two were meant to meet. They were meant to be exactly what each other needed, what each other craved. They were meant to be part of one another's life and find love, acceptance and finally ( at the end of the series I guess ) in each others arms and hearts.
Due to the fact that this is a thriller, I won't say much when it comes to the plot because it is very interesting to read and see for yourself the way things unfold, but what I will say is that Aaron and Kenny really are two pieces of the same soul that finally found their way to each other, even if it was in those circumstances and at the wrong time.
I cannot wait to see where this series takes us next. Dream a Little Dream is for sure one of my fav reads of 2025 and a book that I will re-read multiple times.
Do not expect this one to be spicy or overly romantic. The romance is not your typical kind of romance, it is there but it is in small doses and in the little things. This story is plot driven, but also character driven on a more individual level, if you want.
I am still thinking about how best to describe this book, but I do not have the right words. I think I might come back and write more on my review on my re-read. Until then, please pick up this book and give this series a chance, I highly doubt you will regret it.
I am still shocked that this is not more popular, it definitely deserves more hype and more love.
10 stars. I can't wait to go and read the next one and see what comes next for Dr Kenneth Lyons and our broken boy, Aaron.
November 9, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dream a Little Dream — C.F. White
ARC provided via GRR — thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
This book is not here to hold your hand — it drops you straight into a twisted, obsessive, beautifully unhinged connection and refuses to let you look away.
Aaron and Kenny hooked me from the first moment. Aaron is the son of serial killers, haunted, razor-sharp, and desperately fighting to keep himself walled off from a world that will never let him forget where he came from. Kenny is the brilliant criminal psychologist who should absolutely stay away from him — but instead watches the darkness and trauma and decides to touch it anyway.
Their chemistry is wrong in all the best ways — forbidden, magnetic, hungry. It’s equal parts vulnerability and danger, and that push-pull between surrender and self-destruction is addicting. Aaron’s pain and control issues, Kenny’s fascination with the shadows inside him… every interaction crackles.
I loved the way this story balances psychological tension with emotional depth. You're not just watching two people fall in lust — you're watching two broken, dangerous souls circle each other like they’re both prey and predator. The obsession grows quietly, then all at once.
Add in the escalating threat of a new killer mimicking Aaron’s parents, and you get that tight-throated suspense that keeps you flipping pages. The violence is sharp, the humor is dark, and the atmosphere is constantly humming with danger and longing.
This isn't a fluffy read — it’s tense, intimate, unsettling, and absolutely compelling. I’m fully invested in this twisted, morally-gray marriage of obsession and need, and I am ready for the next descent in this series.
Tropes:
Dark MM romance
Professor/student (forbidden)
Obsession • trauma bonding • psychological fixation
Morally gray characters
Serial killer legacy
Slow descent into ruin (and love)
Tone: Dark, seductive, unnerving, emotionally jagged
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥/5 — intense, charged, psychological heat > explicit frequency
CW/TW: Serial killers, murder, past trauma, abuse, stalking themes, violence, dark humor, psychological manipulation, obsession
If you like your romance with teeth — sharp, obsessive, and emotionally dangerous — this is your kind of story. And mine, apparently. 😏
Dream a Little Dream — C.F. White
ARC provided via GRR — thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
This book is not here to hold your hand — it drops you straight into a twisted, obsessive, beautifully unhinged connection and refuses to let you look away.
Aaron and Kenny hooked me from the first moment. Aaron is the son of serial killers, haunted, razor-sharp, and desperately fighting to keep himself walled off from a world that will never let him forget where he came from. Kenny is the brilliant criminal psychologist who should absolutely stay away from him — but instead watches the darkness and trauma and decides to touch it anyway.
Their chemistry is wrong in all the best ways — forbidden, magnetic, hungry. It’s equal parts vulnerability and danger, and that push-pull between surrender and self-destruction is addicting. Aaron’s pain and control issues, Kenny’s fascination with the shadows inside him… every interaction crackles.
I loved the way this story balances psychological tension with emotional depth. You're not just watching two people fall in lust — you're watching two broken, dangerous souls circle each other like they’re both prey and predator. The obsession grows quietly, then all at once.
Add in the escalating threat of a new killer mimicking Aaron’s parents, and you get that tight-throated suspense that keeps you flipping pages. The violence is sharp, the humor is dark, and the atmosphere is constantly humming with danger and longing.
This isn't a fluffy read — it’s tense, intimate, unsettling, and absolutely compelling. I’m fully invested in this twisted, morally-gray marriage of obsession and need, and I am ready for the next descent in this series.
Tropes:
Dark MM romance
Professor/student (forbidden)
Obsession • trauma bonding • psychological fixation
Morally gray characters
Serial killer legacy
Slow descent into ruin (and love)
Tone: Dark, seductive, unnerving, emotionally jagged
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥/5 — intense, charged, psychological heat > explicit frequency
CW/TW: Serial killers, murder, past trauma, abuse, stalking themes, violence, dark humor, psychological manipulation, obsession
If you like your romance with teeth — sharp, obsessive, and emotionally dangerous — this is your kind of story. And mine, apparently. 😏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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