A review by lyloveslit
Cuffed by a Certified Maniac by Nek Mills

dark funny tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

“Cuffed by a Maniac” by Nek Mills is an exhilarating journey that takes the reader on a wild ride through the depths of obsession and the heights of romantic passion. The story is centered around the captivating dynamics of Jaseon and Breonna, two characters whose interactions are as unpredictable as they are enthralling.

Jaseon, with his obsessive yet endearing nature, brings a level of intensity and humor that lights up the pages. His antics, particularly his interactions with Breonna, are laugh-out-loud funny, showcasing Mills’ skill in blending dark themes with comic relief. Breonna, Jaseon’s teacher at a childcare center, is the perfect counterpart to his unhinged behavior. Their relationship, though fast-paced and chaotic, is a perfect representation of their personalities - quick, spicy, and undeniably manic.

The novel does not shy away from exploring darker themes. Family issues, threats to their lives, and questions of loyalty and trust are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding layers of complexity to the characters and their relationship. This is not just a simple love story; it’s an exploration of the lengths one will go to for love, and the strength it takes to choose trust in the face of adversity.

What sets “Cuffed by a Maniac” apart is its ability to balance the dark with the light. The sour moments in the characters’ relationship are skillfully offset with sweet, tender moments, reminiscent of the ‘sour patch kids’ candy – first they’re sour, then they’re sweet. This dynamic keeps the story fresh and engaging, ensuring that readers are constantly on their toes.