Criminal Investigation Notes

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The investigation of a severed limbs case was stalled. Lu Junchi, captain of the Major Crimes Unit, went to the Chinese police academy to ask for advice. Captain Lu originally thought he would get the advice of a respected old professor. Unexpectedly, he met the sick and weak beauty, Su Hui, who gave him some advice.

Before the reasoning, Lu Junchi belatedly wondered if this Beauty Su was just a pretty face. After the actual evidence, Lu Junchi belatedly thought that this Beauty Su wasn’t a pretty face, he was the one who was silly and foolish.

Lu Junchi was grateful for Su Hui’s help in this case. He appreciated Su Hui’s talent but was afraid that the weak and sick Su Hui wouldn’t be able to live a convenient life. Therefore, he became a Daddy Long Legs uncle and sent warmth to Su Hui day and night. He sent and sent…

Later, he took the big beauty home.

Captain Lu didn’t know that this crippled beauty Su Hui, who had extremely poor eyesight, was deaf in one ear and could run 200 meters in three minutes, would turn out to be a criminal psychology profiling expert who scared criminals. He didn’t know that Su Hui had multiple identities or that he was an old acquaintance…

Su Hui was proficient in criminal psychology portraits and had extremely meticulous reasoning ability. He went deep into the hearts of the criminals to reveal their secrets. He had the courage to go into extreme danger and walked through a hail of bullets with no fear. His heart was like a rock as he fought against evil, like a reed that couldn’t be defeated. He looked so weak while actually being so tough.

No one knew that his world was actually a foggy mess on the verge of collapse. The surrounding liveliness was like a silent movie to him. This was until he met the person who helped him put everything together, retrieving his lost memories and finding the truth of everything to put him back on the road of life.

Su Hui: Do you know what ‘hope’ is in my dictionary?

Lu Junchi: ?

Su Hui: It is you.

Associated Names
One entry per line
Breaking dawn
刑侦笔记
破晓
Related Series
Criminal Investigation Files (Shared Universe)
Recommendations
Criminal Psychology (3)
Silent Reading (3)
Criminal Investigation Files (2)
The Way of the Evil (2)
Breaking Through the Clouds (2)
Swallowing the Seas (2)
Recommendation Lists
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09/23/23 Shanghai Fantasy extra 19
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19 Reviews sorted by


Michelle-08
New Michelle-08
March 5, 2024
Status: Completed
The story is okay, there's a lot interesting and intriguing arcs but if you're looking for dog food/meng/fluff, this one is not for you, this one took ages to confirm their relationship, if I remember it correctly it's around chapter 100th. lol The story revolves around interconnected crimes.

Anyway, although I liked this one, I am not going to reread this again. I feel the ending is anti-climatic with all the crimes going on and serial killers stories etc. Maybe it's just me, but the reason behind all these killings by... more>> the big boss' is... meh. It is simply ridiculous!

Aristotle and Hemingway's story is much better imho! lol ᕦ (⩾﹏⩽) ᕥ The side characters are decos, they're just there to let the main characters shine, they are 2D in my opinion.

The extras? The only extra that I love the most is Yu Yan and Yao Fei's arc, I think their arc is way better than the main characters love story. Also, the mystery game thing is cringey. I cannot! ugh! ε=٩ (●❛ö❛) ۶

So, it's up to you! People have different opinions, you may or may not like this but you will definitely never know unless you try, right? <<less
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xiaqinger
xiaqinger rated it
September 25, 2021
Status: Completed
Honestly, falling in love with this book.

MC is such amazing profiler (and person) with all of his disabilities. ML is talented, upright, and gentle captain of serious crime. Together they solve many serial mu*ders. Perfect work partner (and life partner ofc).
Spoiler

their "relationship" begin 2 years ago, I'm glad they make it this time after dancing between life and death.

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The cases are interesting. I love how MC explaining the psychological terms in an easy manner. The writer did a good job on their research.

Worth reading!!!
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Meatshield
Meatshield rated it
March 3, 2022
Status: Completed
A well-written work.

The cases are interesting and the profiling is logical and riveting to read about. I liked that the individual cases all tied to the bigger plot. The main characters are well-crafted and hard not to cheer for. I liked that the romance was slow but sweet and natural.
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Xiao Jing Ya
Xiao Jing Ya rated it
October 16, 2023
Status: --
I came with great expectations and was disappointed. I read there were many good reviews and good rating but for me this is just meh for a crime novel, and even more meh in the romance department.

For first time crime/mystery danmei readers, this could be a good enough starting point, but for seasoned crime novel readers who had read many other great crime/mystery danmeis, you'd be very likely to be unimpressed.

There are various points in details and worldbuilding in which I feel like the author doesn't quite understand how a... more>> police bureau work. Or even if it really does work like that, then it truly is a shitty bureau. There were so many scenes where the author made other characters s*upid, arrogant, or incompetent, just to make the main character shine, or just for some trivial faceslapping. Really, it was very unnecessary.

The side characters also felt flat and had little to no presence. They were just. There. They feel very 2D and not interesting enough to be memorable. Even the criminals are predictable and didn't really arouse my curiosity. Except that one death-sentenced taxi driver from the first case... I quite like his characterization. And that boy who was hanged in the live streaming case.

I also feel like author had put in too much theories and examples of real life serial killers without truly integrating it to the scenes. In honesty, the story could still go on just fine without all those details. Instead of wasting time on that, I hoped author could at least research how a good police operation (and investigation) should be done.

There was a severe lack in details and obvious loopholes such as why there were no commander in a big arrest? Why two ordinary aunties could sneak into the office door of the major crime unit?? Why was there no deeper background checking on a psychiatrist who would treat one of their most prized profiler who, by the way, should have a very important protection status?

I tried to just go on reading, but I always get frustrated on how the characters react and how ridiculous their actions were, as if no one but Su Hui and Lu Junchi could take the right action. And even then, Lu Junchi oftentimes left me disappointed too.

As s*upid as they were, the officers of a city bureau should be at least competent and had enough brain to not underestimate the suspects every. single. time.

The author seemed to really like to tell, don't show. Until the middle of the novel, I still couldn't feel that Lu Junchi was that great of a captain, or that the major crime unit is elite, etc apart from the narrations. They feel mediocre to me and not great enough for a team of their caliber. Really, I didn't feel that they're that professional. Especially if they were in charge of the greatest criminal cases in the huge city. The entire police department's operations sometimes made me feel like they're just actors playing police, not actual professionals doing a professional job with a super high stake.

The old police were too conceited and the youngs were reckless. Really not dependable at all. It's ok to be a young police, but author seemed to like blaming their reckless decisions and bad judgements on their youth.

Really. If you're a frontline officer assigned to one of the highest special divisions in the municipal bureau, that should never be tolerated as an excuse. As young as you were, you had several years of experience. That should be more than enough room for you to grow up already. You're not an intern. You're an elite police officer. The fckin safety of the whole city depended on you. There was no room to fck up or someone could end up dead.

And speaking of, even the main characters don't seem all that gripping to me. I don't even feel the charm of the supposed male lead. He feels really flat and uninteresting, not charming enough for his supposed role that I honestly didn't feel any excitement whatsoever when he's on the scene. I read on just to find out Su Hui's past. And I didn't even care of other characters except for him and his cats Aristotle and Hemingway.

It does feel like author had planned everything, but couldn't execute it well, and sometimes there were details that made me wonder if the author had forgotten their own plans?

If this was a novel with a less intense genre I would willingly turn a blind eye, but this is a crime/mystery/police novel. There shouldn't be loopholes like that. It makes me frustrated how many times I got disappointed with how the characters acted.

The romance also didn't spark any interest in me. There were no significant emotional buildup and their interactions were bland. If they weren't previously acquainted already, I would feel nearly no chemistry between them. Their confession also left me confused. The big reveal didn't get me excited or happy, only made me go 'that's it???'

In my eyes, the romance narrative isn't exactly great, as in it couldn't make me feel the supposed emotion and intense longing they have for each other.

But all in all, the crime is intriguing enough, even if they tend to be underwhelming in their conclusions. It's an okay read if you don't care with meticulous details. And the romance is passable if you don't seek a divine one.

But as I have read other danmeis in similar genres with far greater details and far better romance, this book sadly falls short in comparison. (Especially, if you want to read the similar premise of 'a supposedly dead former police officer with a complicated past going back in action together with a young captain of a high-ranked criminal investigation unit against an old foe and solving several difficult-and-not-completely-unrelated cases to find out the truth about the big incident several years ago, along with a great romance', try [Breaking Through the Clouds | Poyun] by Huai Shang. That one executed this premise wayyyyy better.)

There are sooo many that I could complain about this book, from character designs, character dynamics, plot, storytelling, worldbuilding, crime details, the characters' actions, etc. I truly feel it's a pity because the premise itself is very good. The initial character designs were so interesting and full of potential, and the first case with the taxi driver was very intriguing. It's like watching something that you know had the potential to soar as high as 90/100 but the execution is just 30/100.

I'm very picky especially with crime novels, so for other people, this book could be good, but for me myself, this could be wayyyyy better.

You know a book is good if it could engage you in and keep you curious, but I didn't feel any excitement nor curiosity whatsoever even after 110+ chapters in. I read it just for the sake of finishing it.

I'm someone who tends to remember characters from stories I've read, even those I've read years ago. But after a couple of weeks of pausing the read (on ch 125+) and resuming it, I've already forgotten all the characters here, even the ML's name, which shows clearly how unmemorable they are.

The translation is decent though. Although there were wrong pronouns here and there, the wording is good and easy to understand, and the translator notes are very helpful.

All in all, I gave it a 3/5 score for a very good potential but it flops sadly in execution. <<less
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Evette
Evette rated it
December 18, 2022
Status: Completed
I haven’t wrote a novel review in ages but this novel has me glued to my seat when reading. There was a beautiful build in tension and all of the cases seemed really unique and well thought out.

The story isn’t really romance heavy but unlike usual I was fine with this and really appreciated how the author put the story together.

The chemistry between the main characters and their pasts were really interesting to me and I liked the contrast in character between their past and present.

i got so excited when... more>> I started guessing the mu*der or mastermind of each case. I was right twice and it made me so happy (even though they were just based on who gave me the ick) I even saw it coming 30 ch before which mad me feel psychic. Every time some key information was revealed I legit gasped cause I wasn’t expecting some many plot twists.I couldn’t notice any plot holes when reading and all of the cases were believable enough.

The last case per say had me at the edge of my seat. Like I knew that this wasn’t that kind of story but I was so worried. I started to tear up so much and was angry sobbing. The author did so little when it came to the main characters relationship but I still cried for them; that’s why I think that it’s worth reading. I feel really content with the ending even though there could be so much more.

this review is so unorganised but I jus finished and am high on the adrenaline. <<less
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Arborescens
Arborescens rated it
April 28, 2022
Status: Completed
I just read this (mtl- ngl I read mtl a lot lol) and dang- I love it sm- came because of the relationship, stay because the plot and all the cases and also the relationship. This will be a long review (I just love this novel sm) so skip if you're too lazy to read (btw no spoilers up ahead). Just keep in mind that both ML and MC is very likeable, the mystery is unique and the plot is very intriguing. The more you read it the more you... more>> get into the story. 1000/10 (I wouldn't recommend reading my review first because first hand experince is very nice)

Starting with the plot, I like how there's a real whole plot that connect everything and also affecting all the characters. I don't see much plot hole or even any (either I'm blind maybe lol). Most of the case is very well planned and the motives lined up with their actions.

The characters, are very varied and have personality, some background characters although only appear a bit still can make you sympathize with them and worried with them. Some makes you see how, you can't really judge people of are they right or wrong.

The case... I wouldn't say much but dang I feel fresh reading them. This is not a detective novel and it shows, the clue is not all there and you need to think to know the mu*derer because although all crimes have only one truth, that truth is usually not found because the clues are lacking/not found. You need to find them. This novel is not about solving a puzzle only, it's also about finding the puzzle piece with the lack of clue and making sure it's the right one.

Lastly, although there's no trope of what I usually enjoy reading (Too OP chara, dog blood drama, face slapping, supernatural stuff, and a lot of dog food, some shocking revelation, idol? (yes.... stuff that I enjoyed are odd lol)) the novel is still very interesting and I just can't seem to get bored of it. The writting is just very well done and connected, making it feel like you're in that situation yourself...

okay I'm now at loss of word because I'm really bad at complimenting in english- ignore my now probably doesn't make sense review because my english is bad lol <<less
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Killgore
Killgore rated it
October 12, 2023
Status: Completed
A truly interesting novel. I binge read the whole thing in 2 days. It was almost like an obsession. The characters were well thought out and reading it you get the feeling that the author did some meticulous research to do this. It made me more interested in criminology as a subject and the translator's note and knowledge truly astounded.

There were some grammar mistakes and some site issues with the translator but the story as such is a 10/10

I would recommend this to anybody who likes a good mystery novel.
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shuulys
shuulys rated it
October 4, 2023
Status: Completed
I enjoyed how this novel is all linked together. Like the various crimes that the MC and ML have to solve are related to each other and it's actually one big crime/mystery that they need to figure out. Most of the times the MC solves it with his profiling ability and it really is quite realistic and logical which made the novel even better. Plus I got to learn new things about psychology and history :") made me binge read it throughout the night even tho I had to wake... more>> up early in the morning to work!

Spoiler

anyways, something that I really like about this novel is that both the MC and ML met ages ago and they actually liked each other back then 🥹 but well things happened so it is what it is... but they're still very cute and sweet even though they didn't recognise each other (there are reasons for it)

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Highly recommended to those that loves a sweet but interesting novel that makes you use your brain while reading. Especially if yall like those upright protagonists because they sure are very upright and wonderful human beings :> <<less
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Smtha
Smtha rated it
November 27, 2023
Status: Completed
This novel is a great read! If you love csi, hanibal, criminal mnds, the story very relatable. Love both ML and MC. The crime solving and romance all with a great plots. Translation is excellent, love all the footnotes and wiki. Thank you, recommendation read.
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Little Cloud
Little Cloud rated it
October 8, 2023
Status: --
One of the best crime investigation novel I've read so far! The cases were unique and interesting with some unexpected outcomes. Everything was clearly explained and there were no doubts after finishing the cases. Everything was up to the detail. An amazing novel!

Talking about the characters, my heart aches for our Teacher Yu (Our captain's uncle). At the beginning I didn't expected him to be on the top of my favorites. But when I finished the main story, he became the most memorable one for me. Also our captain... more>> Lu and Professor Su are very cute and loving! Every character has their unique charm. And I love the silly little brother of captain Lu. Former detective Moonlight also someone I really liked. In short, every character is awesome.

Many thanks for the translator for bringing this story to us!

Highly recommend! <<less
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Ouryane00
Ouryane00 rated it
October 4, 2023
Status: c118
Almost done but stopping for now

Rate: 4.5 ⭐️

The cases are quite interesting to read.

I’m not too keen on the romance. It made me really curious about what happened to them so I kept reading but when it was revealed, it felt underwhelming and when they got together, it felt off

Anyhooo the cases are still worth reading :)
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rokiroki
rokiroki rated it
October 2, 2023
Status: Completed
A very interesting read! I haven't read much crime danmei, but I binge-read it in a day because I really enjoyed this one. There were a few parts where I got a little scared, but the mystery made it so worth it. And everything tied together so well at the end! The cases themselves also felt a little realistic - the motivations behind some of them are realistic and sometimes even make you feel sympathy for them.

I really love reading about power couples in danmei, and this is one of... more>> them. It's like extremely smart, sickly beauty MC x loyal, unwavering, strong ML. The romance part is a little slow, but I agree with one of the other reviewers that it made it feel more natural. They went from strangers > acquaintances > living together > falling in love. And one of the best parts about it was the cats :) <<less
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Cherry.yy
Cherry.yy rated it
August 10, 2023
Status: c79
My first review. Oh I don't think this is review. My first comment.

I really like this novel. The story, the characters, the plot. All of them is my type. (Accidentally put 4.0 star. For me is 5.)

The translation is good, but on some chapter, the translator put a wrong pronouns on Su Hui and that's make me a little uncomfortable. But other than that, I don't have a complain. The translation is really good for me who is not fluent on English. So if you see any wrong grammar,... more>> I'm sorry.

If you are done reading this you must try Sha Qing and Silent reading 👍 <<less
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Dorooo
Dorooo rated it
April 25, 2023
Status: Completed
Quite an alright crime novel. The cases aren't very complex but still detailed enough to keep you reading. My honest rating would be 3.8 mainly because the main and side characters doesn't interest me. Their relationship and personality doesn't quite have that emotional depth that I was hoping for. I solely finished reading this just for the cases.

Although I do agree that the MC and ML are perfect for each other, but if you are looking for a spicy couple full of sparks I think you can look somewhere else.

... more>>
Spoiler

The ML and MC have known each other since 2 years ago. Their relationship at that time is borderline online dating but they failed to meet each other (before the MC got into an accident). Personally, I find the way their past unravels somewhat uneventful. There isn't much suspense because the clues are very much "in your face".

The author is also going in hard with the "smart sickly beauty" trope but with poor writing. I actually fine the trope but it seems like the author only knows how to make the MC cough his lungs out every 2 chapters and catches a fever every 10 chapters. It gets too much when you go through 149 chapters of this and just get sick of it at some point.

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Despite it's flaws, it is still quite a good crime novel especially for first time readers of this genre. <<less
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nadya5554
nadya5554 rated it
November 17, 2023
Status: Completed
Great plot, great characters, great closure, great case.

This novel actually make me interested in criminal psychology. I open a new world that I never even interested before.

Characters are all well written. From main characters to the side and supporting characters. Each person seem "alive" with their stories and personalities.

Overall a well written and engaging novel. Translation is nice. Make me want to read another novel from the same author.

Read it and you will not be able to take the story out of your mind~ ヽ (●´ε`●) ノ
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Kitten998877
Kitten998877 rated it
November 11, 2023
Status: c140
Enjoyed the book! The cases were pretty interesting. However there were times it felt like things are slightly exaggerated but overall it was a good thriller.

Both the characters - Professor Su and Captain Lu are really sweet! Especially captain who is the definition of green flag

The Translator put in a lot of effort on the footnotes - giving the details about terminologies and information about serial killers and the like. Thank you!
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jneowls
jneowls rated it
February 4, 2024
Status: c73
I felt like it started out promising but the more you read the more it feels like a first attempt at a detective novel. The author has done some reaserch and often namedrops all kinds of stuff, but is pretty bad at depicting the way police works. Even me, who knows fxck-all about the topic, can feel that the story is lacking.

The supporting cast of characters barely has any depth, you can pretty much describe each one with a few words. I thought we would learn more about the team... more>> but it's ch.73 and they are only ever mentioned while discussing cases; it doesn't feel like they provide different perspectives even tho they have different sets of skills.

Honestly, the only reason to keep reading is the domestic fluff between main characters but it's sparse enough that I might as well pick up a romance book. <<less
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Jinnmi
Jinnmi
December 10, 2023
Status: c116
Lu Junchi, king of act of service!! This story has been great, the cases are easy to understand and nicely written. I have a lost a little momentum but will definitely finished this when I have time!!
Spoiler

My fav scene so far has to be when Su Hui turned his good ear to the pillow so he could avoid Lu Junchi’s wake up call HAHAHA

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art3micia
art3micia rated it
December 3, 2023
Status: c1
Great mystery novel.

The pace for the crimes was good and the romance was nice too, although more of a second theme, which is my preference when reading crime novels.
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