Hunter and Prey: When The Stalker Becomes The Stalked

by Aimee Gauley

When Marie “Max” Maxwell files for divorce, she looks forward to a fresh start on her terms. Her estranged husband, Brad Simmons, has other ideas. Brad’s obsession with controlling Max turns into relentless stalking and tormenting. But he isn’t the only one who can play those the stalker becomes the stalked. Brad unwittingly becomes a participant in a deadly game of cat and mouse where the lines between hunter and prey are obscured. In this gripping tale of suspense, right and wrong become distorted, leaving readers questioning who the true villain is. Each spine-tingling twist and shocking revelation will keep you guessing until the end. Prepare to be captivated by this thrilling psychological mystery, where the lines between protagonist and antagonist are blurred- and the truth lies hidden between layers of secrets and suspense. Grab your seat and hold on tight as “Hunter and Prey” takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving you to question everyone’s motives.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 8, 2024

Reviews

[Danette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This quick-read story is a psychological mystery that evolves from the narrow scopes of three main characters living in a quiet little Mississippi River town and smartly keeps the reader determined to solve the ‘who-dun-it’ before concluding. The author creatively uses ‘potentiality’ to keep the reader always guessing. The tale features multiple threaded abuse of alcohol, emotional harassment and mental trauma, self-mutilation, and misuse of sexual desire. Some of the key characters are not as they seem, either, except for Max’s love interest, Aaron? And the author brings a little optimistic balance through Max and Aaron’s budding relationship. "Hunter and Prey" highlights displaced loyalties and misperceptions that contribute to a surprising and disturbing conclusion. The unpredictability of the human psyche plays into the unexpected outcomes in this all too-believable-to-be-true fiction. The characters are interesting but a bit more depth to some of them (like Lou, Becky, and even Marie Maxwell) would make the novel five-star. Enjoyed reading this author’s debut work and keeping my eye out for another one from Aimee Gauley.

[Michelle Zilisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small town Iowa police allowing a stalker to get away with tormenting his ex as she tries to divorce him and move on with her life as she finds new romance. As Max struggles with her world constantly in upheaval, she is grounded by the relationship with Lou who is the best friend and support any gal could ask for. Karma is a beautiful thing and loved the surprise at the end.

[Mandy Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A psychological thriller with a twist you will NOT see coming! Once i started this book, I couldnt put it down! 8/5 stars!

[Daniela D · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was decent, but I found it lacking. It was predictable. I really wanted to love this. I'm not disappointed that I read it but it for sure wasn't memorable.

*edit... after more background info and realizing this story was based on real events in the author's life, I appreciate the book more!