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Cryptic Pursuit
Serena
Alex is gone and it’s all my fault. Now, his killer haunts and stalks me, punishing me with more victims than I can handle. I should’ve put an end to his games the moment I first laid eyes on him. Now I’ve been blessed with a second shot at redemption at the Major Crimes Unit in Greenwich. But nothing could’ve prepared me to come face to face with someone from my past, and the worst part? He doesn’t remember me.
Matteo
Tirelessly busting my arse to get to where I wanted to be as a Detective Inspector, ended up costing me the woman I thought I wanted. Now, no one could fulfil the position. Until she came. She’s the Chief’s daughter, but something about her seems familiar. She irritates me to my core but yet, I desire her the most. With the serial killer lurking closer, her life becomes in danger. Overstepping boundaries has always been easy for me to do, but to save her? I’d do anything.
This book includes dark themes, please take the time to consider the trigger and content warnings before proceeding with this story.
Alex is gone and it’s all my fault. Now, his killer haunts and stalks me, punishing me with more victims than I can handle. I should’ve put an end to his games the moment I first laid eyes on him. Now I’ve been blessed with a second shot at redemption at the Major Crimes Unit in Greenwich. But nothing could’ve prepared me to come face to face with someone from my past, and the worst part? He doesn’t remember me.
Matteo
Tirelessly busting my arse to get to where I wanted to be as a Detective Inspector, ended up costing me the woman I thought I wanted. Now, no one could fulfil the position. Until she came. She’s the Chief’s daughter, but something about her seems familiar. She irritates me to my core but yet, I desire her the most. With the serial killer lurking closer, her life becomes in danger. Overstepping boundaries has always been easy for me to do, but to save her? I’d do anything.
This book includes dark themes, please take the time to consider the trigger and content warnings before proceeding with this story.
- GenresDarkDark Romance
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2024
6 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Jayti
2 books16 followersJayti loves to write contemporary romance, featured with dark, forbidden and emotional tropes included. She writes powerful male and female characters who can take charge, provide a morally-grey personality all the while allowing the female character to strive to protect themselves and be possessively loved by a devoted partner.
Follow her instagram for more updates: @jayti.pauthor
Follow her instagram for more updates: @jayti.pauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 11, 2024
THIS BOOK EVERYBODY, THIS BOOK IS PHENOMENAL!!! Where do I even begin? This gave me Criminal Minds vibes, the whole police found family trope was so good. THE PLOT??? I WAS ON MY TOES THE WHOLE TIME! I couldn't guess who TSH was until the big reveal, which made this experience even more interesting to me. I felt all the emotions Serena and Matteo felt and even more.
Serena, omg, she's my girl. She did not backed down from fighting her stalker even though she knew how hard it was for her to win. She went through so much in this book, but she remained strong and kept her sassy attitude.
Matteo, the 6'2 baby, he is my guilty pleasure. Ugh, this man was intense. He looked like he couldn't give a f about Serena, but he was whipped from the beginning. He loved her so much that he was ready to give his life for her.
The tension between these two was explosive, I was panting until the moment they had their first kiss. But when the spice hit, THE SPICE HIT.
This is Jayti's debut novel, but it surely didn't feel like it. She brings a new approach with very descriptive gore scenes, great banter and a very interesting way of keeping readers intrigued by the story.
The two were made for each other and I adored to see their relationship slowly develop into this epic love story.
THE CLIFFHANGER THO??? ILLEGAL!!!! I NEED BOOK 2 RIGHT NOW.
Don't forget to check TW because this book is very heavy.
🌶🌶🌶/5
(Thank you Jayti Philpot for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
Serena, omg, she's my girl. She did not backed down from fighting her stalker even though she knew how hard it was for her to win. She went through so much in this book, but she remained strong and kept her sassy attitude.
Matteo, the 6'2 baby, he is my guilty pleasure. Ugh, this man was intense. He looked like he couldn't give a f about Serena, but he was whipped from the beginning. He loved her so much that he was ready to give his life for her.
The tension between these two was explosive, I was panting until the moment they had their first kiss. But when the spice hit, THE SPICE HIT.
This is Jayti's debut novel, but it surely didn't feel like it. She brings a new approach with very descriptive gore scenes, great banter and a very interesting way of keeping readers intrigued by the story.
The two were made for each other and I adored to see their relationship slowly develop into this epic love story.
THE CLIFFHANGER THO??? ILLEGAL!!!! I NEED BOOK 2 RIGHT NOW.
Don't forget to check TW because this book is very heavy.
🌶🌶🌶/5
(Thank you Jayti Philpot for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
April 27, 2025
First of all I cannot believe this is Jayti’s debut novel, it was fantastic! Criminal minds but make it based in the UK!
A serial unaliver playing cat and mouse games, the stalker who’s taunting the main Sargent on the case kept me guessing the entire time! Add in a childhood friends to lovers situation and this is pure perfection! It was so fun trying to catch onto all the twists in this book. Matteo the MMC had the most deliciously filthy mouth you couldn’t help but fall in love with him!
The cliffhanger though, need book 2 asap! Thank you so much to Jayti Philpot for sending me your debut novel in exchange for my honest review, I’m so grateful!
A serial unaliver playing cat and mouse games, the stalker who’s taunting the main Sargent on the case kept me guessing the entire time! Add in a childhood friends to lovers situation and this is pure perfection! It was so fun trying to catch onto all the twists in this book. Matteo the MMC had the most deliciously filthy mouth you couldn’t help but fall in love with him!
The cliffhanger though, need book 2 asap! Thank you so much to Jayti Philpot for sending me your debut novel in exchange for my honest review, I’m so grateful!
October 2, 2024
Firstly, debut novel…. holy moly what a debut.
I had been eagerly awaiting getting to this book, and let me tell you it HIT. It had so much plot, so much depth, it was tense, it was thrilling and exciting. I was pulled this way, then that way. The plot just kept giving, twists after twist. This book was more plot than smut, but the smut was absolutely giving. The way it all worked out, and how the twists all came together was just perfection. You’ll be second guessing yourself every step…. It’s a ride. That I loved the absolute shit out of. I was weak, feral…. SHOOK, I laughed (the British banter had me howling). I cried… but ultimately this is an absolute great read.
I fell and I fell hard for Matteo, he was absolutely perfect in every way. Grumpy, possessive…. And the tension! Ughhh the tension between him & Serena in the early chapters was just HEAVEN. I love a slow burn, and it was so well done. I was feral for them to finally connect, and when they did…. DAMN. HOT STUFF.
If you love everything thrilling, intense, plot heavy & spicy, get it on your TBR.
Super easy 5 star.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jayti, more… I need more.
Gimme.
I had been eagerly awaiting getting to this book, and let me tell you it HIT. It had so much plot, so much depth, it was tense, it was thrilling and exciting. I was pulled this way, then that way. The plot just kept giving, twists after twist. This book was more plot than smut, but the smut was absolutely giving. The way it all worked out, and how the twists all came together was just perfection. You’ll be second guessing yourself every step…. It’s a ride. That I loved the absolute shit out of. I was weak, feral…. SHOOK, I laughed (the British banter had me howling). I cried… but ultimately this is an absolute great read.
I fell and I fell hard for Matteo, he was absolutely perfect in every way. Grumpy, possessive…. And the tension! Ughhh the tension between him & Serena in the early chapters was just HEAVEN. I love a slow burn, and it was so well done. I was feral for them to finally connect, and when they did…. DAMN. HOT STUFF.
If you love everything thrilling, intense, plot heavy & spicy, get it on your TBR.
Super easy 5 star.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jayti, more… I need more.
Gimme.
September 22, 2024
So I was blessed with a ARC of Jayti’s debut and I can’t wait for this book to officially release. The characters, the plot, the spice, the tension are all 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I couldn’t stop reading and finished this in 3 sittings. It’s so addictive. I feel like I can’t do this book justice. If you’re getting into Dark romance or like cat and mouse tension this should defo go on your list!
Considering this is Jayti’s first book they’re releasing. I can’t wait to see what they do in the future ❤️
I couldn’t stop reading and finished this in 3 sittings. It’s so addictive. I feel like I can’t do this book justice. If you’re getting into Dark romance or like cat and mouse tension this should defo go on your list!
Considering this is Jayti’s first book they’re releasing. I can’t wait to see what they do in the future ❤️
October 15, 2024
Incredible!!
This is Jayti Philpot’s debut novel and wow 🤩 incredible..
"Come out, come out, wherever you are, my sweet," my masked captor sings, with malice and excitement purring in his voice.
From the very first page its action packed there’s no messing about…
This book was gripping, intense I was hooked..
The Secrets 🤯 the twists, it was like watching a movie reading this book I’d give it more stars if I could..
This is Jayti Philpot’s debut novel and wow 🤩 incredible..
"Come out, come out, wherever you are, my sweet," my masked captor sings, with malice and excitement purring in his voice.
From the very first page its action packed there’s no messing about…
This book was gripping, intense I was hooked..
The Secrets 🤯 the twists, it was like watching a movie reading this book I’d give it more stars if I could..
September 21, 2024
s
✨Arc Review✨
What an amazing first novel from @jayti.pauthor
This a great book for fans of true crime. The book is fast paced and I was on the edge of my seat throughout the book. The story had me in a chokehold, I loved the characters and the found family trope. The chemistry between Serena and Matteo 🔥🔥. Jayti absolutely smashed it out of the park with this one and i can't wait to read more of her work
Please check triggers and content warnings before reading
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️
✨Arc Review✨
What an amazing first novel from @jayti.pauthor
This a great book for fans of true crime. The book is fast paced and I was on the edge of my seat throughout the book. The story had me in a chokehold, I loved the characters and the found family trope. The chemistry between Serena and Matteo 🔥🔥. Jayti absolutely smashed it out of the park with this one and i can't wait to read more of her work
Please check triggers and content warnings before reading
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️
September 21, 2024
This is Jayti’s debut book I received this as an arc and I devoured it, the title says it all with the twists and turns edge of your seat moments, I thought at first Serena knew TSH but I was wrong, she is kick-ass and would do anything for the people she loves and Matteo he is my kind of guy tall dark and mysterious with a side of kink, it is phenomenal and I hope to read more from Jayti he is an amazing writer this is one to be read and devoured it is available to buy 31st October
October 1, 2024
I enjoyed every minute of this book!!! It was so fast paced serial killer,murder mystery the characters were amazingly well written. If you love true crime this book is for you! It was an honor to arc read for Jayti Philpot🖤
September 12, 2024
Love this.
This is definitely different then books I'm used to read. For once the serial unaliver/stalker is exactly that.😂😂
This book has a lot in. It has elements of thriller, horror and I would even say splatterpunk, but don't worry there is also romance in it😉 With that said please check triggers because this book has them for a reason!! IT IS DARK!
Love authors writing, it has a lot of details, body language and those delicious tensions. Whole book is filled with secrets and plot twists that will keep you at the edge of your seat.
All in all, love this book and can't wait to read next book in duet. Also that ending? Author knows how to keep us on our toes.
⭐️5/5
🌶3/5
This is definitely different then books I'm used to read. For once the serial unaliver/stalker is exactly that.😂😂
This book has a lot in. It has elements of thriller, horror and I would even say splatterpunk, but don't worry there is also romance in it😉 With that said please check triggers because this book has them for a reason!! IT IS DARK!
Love authors writing, it has a lot of details, body language and those delicious tensions. Whole book is filled with secrets and plot twists that will keep you at the edge of your seat.
All in all, love this book and can't wait to read next book in duet. Also that ending? Author knows how to keep us on our toes.
⭐️5/5
🌶3/5
May 18, 2025
The dedication alone had me in a chokehold! This is an outstandingly written debut from Jayti.
This story was captivating. From the very beginning the thrills began & the scene of terror was set. The plot evolved like a flowing river & drew me into the story. The romance was a definate slow burn, a childhood friends to lovers with a twist.
Serena & Matteo ❤️🔥 They both experienced so much & watching their story unfold just gripped my heart. The strength & resilience Serena displays is remarkable. The trauma she faces crippling but ultimately empowering her. Matteo is the epitome of masculinity, his own trauma slowly emerging & only adds to depth of his allure. They want and need each other more than they both initially imagined.
The suspense 😮 The fear 😰The twists 👀 The emotions 🥺 The spice❤️🔥
An outstanding mix of crime, k!lls, thrills, trauma, comedy, friendship, family, memories, lust, love & more …..
I would 100% recommend (Please be aware of & check TWs first)
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. It was an honour & I am on tenterhooks for the next book!
This story was captivating. From the very beginning the thrills began & the scene of terror was set. The plot evolved like a flowing river & drew me into the story. The romance was a definate slow burn, a childhood friends to lovers with a twist.
Serena & Matteo ❤️🔥 They both experienced so much & watching their story unfold just gripped my heart. The strength & resilience Serena displays is remarkable. The trauma she faces crippling but ultimately empowering her. Matteo is the epitome of masculinity, his own trauma slowly emerging & only adds to depth of his allure. They want and need each other more than they both initially imagined.
The suspense 😮 The fear 😰The twists 👀 The emotions 🥺 The spice❤️🔥
An outstanding mix of crime, k!lls, thrills, trauma, comedy, friendship, family, memories, lust, love & more …..
I would 100% recommend (Please be aware of & check TWs first)
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. It was an honour & I am on tenterhooks for the next book!
July 4, 2025
ARC REVIEW
What just happened. From the opening sentence till the end the suspense, surprise, tension . i could feel everything written through the screen. I could never figure out what was going to happen next when it was revealed who i screamed from shock. How ? just how ? i just can't comprehend , you need to read this honestly. The spice is a 4.
What just happened. From the opening sentence till the end the suspense, surprise, tension . i could feel everything written through the screen. I could never figure out what was going to happen next when it was revealed who i screamed from shock. How ? just how ? i just can't comprehend , you need to read this honestly. The spice is a 4.
September 7, 2024
ℭ𝔯𝔶𝔭𝔱𝔦𝔠 𝔓𝔲𝔯𝔰𝔲𝔦𝔱 𝔟𝔶 𝔍𝔞𝔶𝔱𝔦 𝔓𝔥𝔦𝔩𝔭𝔬𝔱 (𝔄ℜℭ ℜ𝔢𝔳𝔦𝔢𝔴)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
Fav Quotes:
“ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴡʜʏ ɪ ꜰᴇᴇʟ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴡᴀʏ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪ ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ᴇxᴘʟᴀɪɴ ɪᴛ. ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ - ɴᴏ - ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ʟᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴇᴛ ʜᴜʀᴛ. ɪᴛ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴘʜʏꜱɪᴄᴀʟʟʏ ᴋɪʟʟ ᴍᴇ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪꜰ ɪ ᴄᴏɴᴛɪɴᴜᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜɪꜱ ꜰᴇᴇʟɪɴɢ…”
“ʏᴏᴜʀ’ʀᴇ ᴍʏ ʀᴏᴏᴋɪᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴄᴜ. ʙᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴀʟꜱᴏ ᴍʏ ꜰʟᴀᴍᴇ, ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴀɴᴄᴇꜱ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ɪɴ ᴍʏ ᴠᴇɪɴꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ʙᴏɪʟꜱ ᴍʏ ʙʟᴏᴏᴅ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴡᴀʏ ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜱᴛᴏᴘ.”
“ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ɪɴ ᴍʏ ᴍɪɴᴅ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪ ɢᴏ ᴛᴏ ꜱʟᴇᴇᴘ, ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪ’ᴍ ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇ. ʏᴏᴜ ɪɴᴠᴀᴅᴇ ᴍʏ ᴍɪɴᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ʏᴇᴛ, ɪ ᴀʟʟᴏᴡ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴀʏ. ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ɪɢɴɪᴛᴇꜱ ᴍʏ ꜱᴋɪɴ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇɴᴅ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ɪ’ᴍ ɴᴏᴛʜɪɴɢ,”
“ɪ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ꜱᴛᴇᴘ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ. ɴᴏ ᴍᴀᴛᴛᴇʀ ʜᴏᴡ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴛᴜʀɴꜱ ᴏᴜᴛ, ᴡᴇ’ʟʟ ᴅᴏ ᴛʜɪꜱ. ᴛᴏɢᴇᴛʜᴇʀ,”
Review:
THE ENDING- Jayti what do you mean?! I absolutely loved this story!! It was soo good, I was literally messaging back and forth with Jayti through it, i love Teo and Senna 🥹, their chemistry and their dynamic! But ofc the storyline?! What I tell you I couldn’t put this book down, I’m not joking, I was trying to figure out what happens next every time, I highly recommend but ofc read trigger warnings just incase! Your mental health matters most 🫶🏼
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
Fav Quotes:
“ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴡʜʏ ɪ ꜰᴇᴇʟ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴡᴀʏ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪ ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ᴇxᴘʟᴀɪɴ ɪᴛ. ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ - ɴᴏ - ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ʟᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴇᴛ ʜᴜʀᴛ. ɪᴛ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ᴘʜʏꜱɪᴄᴀʟʟʏ ᴋɪʟʟ ᴍᴇ, ʙᴜᴛ ɪꜰ ɪ ᴄᴏɴᴛɪɴᴜᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜɪꜱ ꜰᴇᴇʟɪɴɢ…”
“ʏᴏᴜʀ’ʀᴇ ᴍʏ ʀᴏᴏᴋɪᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴄᴜ. ʙᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴀʟꜱᴏ ᴍʏ ꜰʟᴀᴍᴇ, ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴀɴᴄᴇꜱ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ɪɴ ᴍʏ ᴠᴇɪɴꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ʙᴏɪʟꜱ ᴍʏ ʙʟᴏᴏᴅ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴡᴀʏ ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ꜱᴛᴏᴘ.”
“ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ɪɴ ᴍʏ ᴍɪɴᴅ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪ ɢᴏ ᴛᴏ ꜱʟᴇᴇᴘ, ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪ’ᴍ ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇ. ʏᴏᴜ ɪɴᴠᴀᴅᴇ ᴍʏ ᴍɪɴᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ʏᴇᴛ, ɪ ᴀʟʟᴏᴡ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴛᴀʏ. ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ɪɢɴɪᴛᴇꜱ ᴍʏ ꜱᴋɪɴ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ɪᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴇɴᴅ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ɪ’ᴍ ɴᴏᴛʜɪɴɢ,”
“ɪ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ꜱᴛᴇᴘ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ. ɴᴏ ᴍᴀᴛᴛᴇʀ ʜᴏᴡ ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴛᴜʀɴꜱ ᴏᴜᴛ, ᴡᴇ’ʟʟ ᴅᴏ ᴛʜɪꜱ. ᴛᴏɢᴇᴛʜᴇʀ,”
Review:
THE ENDING- Jayti what do you mean?! I absolutely loved this story!! It was soo good, I was literally messaging back and forth with Jayti through it, i love Teo and Senna 🥹, their chemistry and their dynamic! But ofc the storyline?! What I tell you I couldn’t put this book down, I’m not joking, I was trying to figure out what happens next every time, I highly recommend but ofc read trigger warnings just incase! Your mental health matters most 🫶🏼
November 1, 2024
My first proper thriller I would say!
I devoured it, I never normally read a thriller thinking I won’t enjoy it too much but I absolutely loved it.
There was also romance involved of course but really I was so grasped by the storyline part it was incredible.
It kept me excited and invested to find out what happened next and I’m soooo glad I had the chance to read it as it was amazing.
Serena was a great FMC she had been through something tragic and came out stronger, I loved her character throughout and was a great person.
Mateo was very charming, banter was great especially in the beginning when he was being a wind up.
Overall I really really enjoyed this and would certainly recommend to anyone who likes thrillers and or romance!
Highlights I loved -
“You’re always my rookie. But La Mia fiamma for my soul.”
“He’s so beautiful when he doesn’t open his mouth and talk sh!t half the time.”
Synopsis -
Serena
Alex is gone and it’s all my fault. Now, his killer haunts and stalks me, punishing me with more victims than I can handle. I should’ve put an end to his games the moment I first laid eyes on him. Now I’ve been blessed with a second shot at redemption at the Major Crimes Unit in Greenwich. But nothing could’ve prepared me to come face to face with someone from my past, and the worst part? He doesn’t remember me.
Matteo
Tirelessly busting my arse to get to where I wanted to be as a Detective Inspector, ended up costing me the woman I thought I wanted. Now, no one could fulfil the position. Until she came. She’s the Chief’s daughter, but something about her seems familiar. She irritates me to my core but yet, I desire her the most. With the serial killer lurking closer, her life becomes in danger. Overstepping boundaries has always been easy for me to do, but to save her? I’d do anything.
The TW and CW are in the front of the book, please refer to these before proceeding with this story.
I devoured it, I never normally read a thriller thinking I won’t enjoy it too much but I absolutely loved it.
There was also romance involved of course but really I was so grasped by the storyline part it was incredible.
It kept me excited and invested to find out what happened next and I’m soooo glad I had the chance to read it as it was amazing.
Serena was a great FMC she had been through something tragic and came out stronger, I loved her character throughout and was a great person.
Mateo was very charming, banter was great especially in the beginning when he was being a wind up.
Overall I really really enjoyed this and would certainly recommend to anyone who likes thrillers and or romance!
Highlights I loved -
“You’re always my rookie. But La Mia fiamma for my soul.”
“He’s so beautiful when he doesn’t open his mouth and talk sh!t half the time.”
Synopsis -
Serena
Alex is gone and it’s all my fault. Now, his killer haunts and stalks me, punishing me with more victims than I can handle. I should’ve put an end to his games the moment I first laid eyes on him. Now I’ve been blessed with a second shot at redemption at the Major Crimes Unit in Greenwich. But nothing could’ve prepared me to come face to face with someone from my past, and the worst part? He doesn’t remember me.
Matteo
Tirelessly busting my arse to get to where I wanted to be as a Detective Inspector, ended up costing me the woman I thought I wanted. Now, no one could fulfil the position. Until she came. She’s the Chief’s daughter, but something about her seems familiar. She irritates me to my core but yet, I desire her the most. With the serial killer lurking closer, her life becomes in danger. Overstepping boundaries has always been easy for me to do, but to save her? I’d do anything.
The TW and CW are in the front of the book, please refer to these before proceeding with this story.
September 27, 2024
Arc Review
First of all I want to thank my babygirl for trusting me with her work.
Second of all I want to say that this book blowed my mind away. Omg I just can't explain how good this book was.
I am a sucker for horror and thriller and mystery. And having a book that has all three plus dark romance is the best thing that can happen to me as a reader lol.
The mystery and the plot twist was just mind blowing. I want to go back and read it for the first time again so I can spend ten minutes staring at the wall with my mind scrambled. I also used Dark Victorian Detective ambience music while reading it and the vibe is just different.
My heart was racing the whole time with Serena, that girl and the mystery just made my heart drop like crazy lol. That's how good it was.
The story was so good and the banter between both MC was exactly what I like. Serena and Matteo are so fkn good and hot together.
I think the only bad thing I have is that it ended and I wanted more, lol, so please Jayti baby sing me up for your next book because this was a masterpiece.
First of all I want to thank my babygirl for trusting me with her work.
Second of all I want to say that this book blowed my mind away. Omg I just can't explain how good this book was.
I am a sucker for horror and thriller and mystery. And having a book that has all three plus dark romance is the best thing that can happen to me as a reader lol.
The mystery and the plot twist was just mind blowing. I want to go back and read it for the first time again so I can spend ten minutes staring at the wall with my mind scrambled. I also used Dark Victorian Detective ambience music while reading it and the vibe is just different.
My heart was racing the whole time with Serena, that girl and the mystery just made my heart drop like crazy lol. That's how good it was.
The story was so good and the banter between both MC was exactly what I like. Serena and Matteo are so fkn good and hot together.
I think the only bad thing I have is that it ended and I wanted more, lol, so please Jayti baby sing me up for your next book because this was a masterpiece.
October 3, 2024
ARC Review;
Rating; ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly, debut novel…. holy moly what a debut.
I fell and I fell hard for Matteo, he was absolutely perfect in every way. Grumpy, possessive…. And the tension! The tension between him & Serena I love a slow burn, and it was so well done.
This story was captivating. From the very beginning the thrills began & The plot evolved like & drew me into the story. The romance was a definate slow burn, a childhood friends to lovers with a twist.
Serena & Matteo They both experienced so much & watching their story unfold The strength & resilience Serena displays is remarkable. The trauma she faces crippling but ultimately empowering her. Matteo is the epitome of masculinity, his own trauma slowly emerging & only adds to depth of his allure. They want and need each other more than they both initially imagined.
The suspense, The fear, The twists, The emotions, The spice
An outstanding mix of crime, k!lls, thrills, trauma, comedy, friendship, family, memories, lust, love & more …..
I would 100% recommend (Please be aware of & check TWs first)
If you love everything thrilling, intense, plot heavy & spicy, get it on your TBR.
Rating; ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly, debut novel…. holy moly what a debut.
I fell and I fell hard for Matteo, he was absolutely perfect in every way. Grumpy, possessive…. And the tension! The tension between him & Serena I love a slow burn, and it was so well done.
This story was captivating. From the very beginning the thrills began & The plot evolved like & drew me into the story. The romance was a definate slow burn, a childhood friends to lovers with a twist.
Serena & Matteo They both experienced so much & watching their story unfold The strength & resilience Serena displays is remarkable. The trauma she faces crippling but ultimately empowering her. Matteo is the epitome of masculinity, his own trauma slowly emerging & only adds to depth of his allure. They want and need each other more than they both initially imagined.
The suspense, The fear, The twists, The emotions, The spice
An outstanding mix of crime, k!lls, thrills, trauma, comedy, friendship, family, memories, lust, love & more …..
I would 100% recommend (Please be aware of & check TWs first)
If you love everything thrilling, intense, plot heavy & spicy, get it on your TBR.
October 31, 2024
An absolutely spectacular debut novel from Jayti Philpot!! Now let me tell you why…
Serena is daughter of the Chief, dealing with personal grief. She dives back into work as DS to a new team with the aim to stop a recent spate of k!llings, while dealing with a sinister stalker always watching. Then she catches the eye of a man from her past, the tall & exceptionally desirable DI Matteo Rinaldi (and did I mention Italian 🤨). Things escalate in every area of her life in a race to catch the ki!ller before he strikes again!
This is well paced, detailed in the writing & keeping you on the edge throughout. The sexual tension between Serena & Matteo is on point and when they eventuality give into their attraction, holy hell does the spice get hot!!! Lots of triggers so read sensibly & check them! Definitely a romantic thriller I wholeheartedly recommend!!
On a personal note, it’s set around my old stomping grounds which was fab to read. So great that SE London & North Kent get some book love 🥰
Serena is daughter of the Chief, dealing with personal grief. She dives back into work as DS to a new team with the aim to stop a recent spate of k!llings, while dealing with a sinister stalker always watching. Then she catches the eye of a man from her past, the tall & exceptionally desirable DI Matteo Rinaldi (and did I mention Italian 🤨). Things escalate in every area of her life in a race to catch the ki!ller before he strikes again!
This is well paced, detailed in the writing & keeping you on the edge throughout. The sexual tension between Serena & Matteo is on point and when they eventuality give into their attraction, holy hell does the spice get hot!!! Lots of triggers so read sensibly & check them! Definitely a romantic thriller I wholeheartedly recommend!!
On a personal note, it’s set around my old stomping grounds which was fab to read. So great that SE London & North Kent get some book love 🥰
October 6, 2024
So many plot twists you’ll get whiplash!
Mannnnn…. This story! This story had me all thinking I knew exactly where the story was going and who was taking me there. I was wrong everytime and I love that. The plot of this story really shines! There’s depth and so many twists. You know I love a good twist that I can’t figure out!
Thinking back even the first 5 pages. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor and piece my heart back together. I was reading those first pages going what have I gotten myself into?!
The spicy be spicing. It was perfect for a story that was amazing to begin with. The spice made perfect sense and added to that depth of plot I was mentioning.
If you are looking for a book that gives strong who dun it vibes but you also want a romance, this is your book!
Mannnnn…. This story! This story had me all thinking I knew exactly where the story was going and who was taking me there. I was wrong everytime and I love that. The plot of this story really shines! There’s depth and so many twists. You know I love a good twist that I can’t figure out!
Thinking back even the first 5 pages. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor and piece my heart back together. I was reading those first pages going what have I gotten myself into?!
The spicy be spicing. It was perfect for a story that was amazing to begin with. The spice made perfect sense and added to that depth of plot I was mentioning.
If you are looking for a book that gives strong who dun it vibes but you also want a romance, this is your book!
July 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
For a debut novel, this book was truly incredible. The story had me gripped from the very beginning.
If you enjoy crime stories, the show Criminal Minds, and drama this thriller/horror is definitely a must-read.
Warning it does end in a cliffhanger as this book is only part 1, and I am sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for book 2. The twists and turns the story took had me so locked in I couldn't help but finish this book in just a few days. Having to wait for book 2 is torture because I absolutely need to know where this journey is going to end up.
Please check the trigger warnings before reading as your mental health matters and this series does contain sensitive topics and explicit content and is intended for audiences over 18 years old.
🌶🌶.5
For a debut novel, this book was truly incredible. The story had me gripped from the very beginning.
If you enjoy crime stories, the show Criminal Minds, and drama this thriller/horror is definitely a must-read.
Warning it does end in a cliffhanger as this book is only part 1, and I am sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for book 2. The twists and turns the story took had me so locked in I couldn't help but finish this book in just a few days. Having to wait for book 2 is torture because I absolutely need to know where this journey is going to end up.
Please check the trigger warnings before reading as your mental health matters and this series does contain sensitive topics and explicit content and is intended for audiences over 18 years old.
October 14, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book chucks you in straight away. There is no slow introduction to her life but instead you are greeted with a suspenseful chase in the first chapter. Which I loved as it hooked me in immediately, I just couldn't put it down!
Throughout the book there were so many good twists which I loved! Any predictions that I had were thrown out the window as I got deeper into the plot. Speaking of the plot this is my first dark detective romance!
There were times that I thought a spicy scene was going to happen however Jay was just teasing us but it was worth the wait!
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book chucks you in straight away. There is no slow introduction to her life but instead you are greeted with a suspenseful chase in the first chapter. Which I loved as it hooked me in immediately, I just couldn't put it down!
Throughout the book there were so many good twists which I loved! Any predictions that I had were thrown out the window as I got deeper into the plot. Speaking of the plot this is my first dark detective romance!
There were times that I thought a spicy scene was going to happen however Jay was just teasing us but it was worth the wait!
October 24, 2024
This is dark, gritty and hooks you in. There's action throughout as you follow Serena in a game of cat and mouse. I love psychological thriller and this keeps you on your toes as the rush is on to identify the killer before more are killed. There are a few surprises along the way, more so as you reach the end with everything unfolding.
There's a mix of crime and passion to this one and Serena and Matteo's relationship is a strong theme throughout with them learning to work with each other and more. Their history is kinda sweet and depth to Matteo's character. I still feel there's a lot to unpick with him and am sure that part 2 will not disappoint.
There's a mix of crime and passion to this one and Serena and Matteo's relationship is a strong theme throughout with them learning to work with each other and more. Their history is kinda sweet and depth to Matteo's character. I still feel there's a lot to unpick with him and am sure that part 2 will not disappoint.
September 17, 2024
To all my book girlies that love a good book with a stalker. Has a man that says he isn't with her but would burn the world if you ever touched her, and couldn't stand to be without her. You love a good murder mystery and just a little bit of spice that just brings the book all together then let me tell you this book is for you. There may be some scenes that could be a trigger so proceed carefully if you know you are triggered easily. Other than that this book is absolutely amazing and will completely capture your attention.
October 29, 2024
I was hooked. I loved all of the secret layers that slowly unfolded into one intertwined story. It was so fun to try and unpack all of the secrets and big reveals along with the characters. Not only that, but I love the dynamic of the team, especially Matteo and Serena! I love their relationship.
I love how packed the plot was - the tension and the twists keep you so entranced!
Crime/Thriller centred novels aren’t usually my go to genre, but when I saw the tropes and blurb for Cryptic Pursuit, it felt like an immediate read. And - it didn’t disappoint!
This was a perfect read for spooky season.
I love how packed the plot was - the tension and the twists keep you so entranced!
Crime/Thriller centred novels aren’t usually my go to genre, but when I saw the tropes and blurb for Cryptic Pursuit, it felt like an immediate read. And - it didn’t disappoint!
This was a perfect read for spooky season.
September 16, 2024
If you like stalker tropes, this is your book.
If you like to feel the tension through the whole story, this is your book.
If you like masked men, this is your book.
If you like strong FMC, that knows her worth and faces the world even when scared, this is your book.
If those aren't your tropes, read the book. They will be after it
If you like to feel the tension through the whole story, this is your book.
If you like masked men, this is your book.
If you like strong FMC, that knows her worth and faces the world even when scared, this is your book.
If those aren't your tropes, read the book. They will be after it
October 31, 2024
ARC REVIEW
I’m a huge fan of true crime so this book had me hooked through the book like the mystery, suspense and I devoured this book quickly like I was on my toes and the edge my seat throughout the book. I was screaming, crying it’s a must read literally would keep coming back to read it you left no crumbs like take all my money.
Also HAPPY RELEASE DAY GORGEOUS!
I’m a huge fan of true crime so this book had me hooked through the book like the mystery, suspense and I devoured this book quickly like I was on my toes and the edge my seat throughout the book. I was screaming, crying it’s a must read literally would keep coming back to read it you left no crumbs like take all my money.
Also HAPPY RELEASE DAY GORGEOUS!
September 10, 2024
I cannot believe this is Jayti first book. It was incredible! I devoured this in a day. Loved Sienna and Matteo story. The plot was a page turner, the spice was perfection, cannot wait for the next part.
October 30, 2024
Criminal minds vibes. A captivating, keeps you on the edge of your seat read. The 2 MCs have major tension and the build up and inevitable explosion when these two give in is… Wow!!
This debut novel is stunning and written to perfection, but that cliffhanger…Women I need more!!!
This debut novel is stunning and written to perfection, but that cliffhanger…Women I need more!!!
October 30, 2024
Cryptic Pursuit is a thrilling, mysterious, action packed read that keeps you intrigued with all the twists and turns!
This was such an intense & suspenseful read that keeps you guessing!
I could not put this book down! And amazing debut novel from Jayti Philpot!
This was such an intense & suspenseful read that keeps you guessing!
I could not put this book down! And amazing debut novel from Jayti Philpot!
October 1, 2024
This was a wild ride and I enjoyed every minute of it! Fast paced, murder mystery, serial killer, strong FMC, morally grey MMC, what more do you need?
4⭐️
3 🌶️
Check TW!
4⭐️
3 🌶️
Check TW!
November 1, 2024
The Silent Hunter is stalking Serena. He has been hunting and taking down law enforcement. Can her team stop him before he makes good on his threats?
This romantic thriller was one hell of a page turner! My heart was pumping the whole time! It’s filled with twisty plot and spice.
The goodness you’ll find in Cryptic Pursuit:
♟️Workplace romance (UK law enforcement)
♟️Banter
♟️Italian MMC and Indian FMC
♟️Touch her & ☠️
♟️”Silent Hunter” serial unal!v3r
♟️St@lking
♟️ Secrets
♟️He calls her “La mia fiamma”
If you’re into true crime and shows like Criminal Minds, you’re going to want to read this!
This romantic thriller was one hell of a page turner! My heart was pumping the whole time! It’s filled with twisty plot and spice.
The goodness you’ll find in Cryptic Pursuit:
♟️Workplace romance (UK law enforcement)
♟️Banter
♟️Italian MMC and Indian FMC
♟️Touch her & ☠️
♟️”Silent Hunter” serial unal!v3r
♟️St@lking
♟️ Secrets
♟️He calls her “La mia fiamma”
If you’re into true crime and shows like Criminal Minds, you’re going to want to read this!
October 11, 2024
How is this a debut novel?? This was amazing!! First off, love me some detective/inspector action. Throw in the smoldering, mysterious, tall Italian man and you have the whole package. I was left completely stunned when I found out who the Killer was! This will take you on some wild rides and make you question every single character.
Serena and Matteo have my heart. From their past to the present, I loved it all.
Got major true crimes, criminal minds, and zodiac killer vibes from this book. It was so fast paced and spicy I never wanted to put it down.
Serena and Matteo have my heart. From their past to the present, I loved it all.
Got major true crimes, criminal minds, and zodiac killer vibes from this book. It was so fast paced and spicy I never wanted to put it down.
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