Chasing Maya: A Dark Undercover Thriller Romance

by J.L. Ash

Maya Taylor is a survivor of a cartel revenge that destroyed her family. Five years later, she lives under protective custody, haunted by trauma and chased by fear.

Then she meets Phoenix.

Charming and sexy, Phoenix Allveron, has become her escape from reality. Their relationship is no-strings-attached, and Maya is safe to let her guard down.

Phoenix is hiding the truth that could shatter her completely.

Because in Maya's world, love isn't dangerous, it's who to trust.

Genres: Thriller

Unknown Binding

Reviews

[Amanda Milne]

Wow, this is a fast paced storyline by J L Ash! It is based on Maya who has experienced a terrible tragedy and Phoenix who comes into her life. The spice was good and the storyline was great! Maya discovers something about Phoenix that makes her rethink what their relationship is. You can really feel the emotions in this book.
If you want a fast paced book, then this is the book for you.

[Bookish_Ashleigh]

I LOVED this book. It starts right off intense and giving you the story to understand everything you will need. It continues on with an undercover cop who falls for the woman he is protecting but she doesn’t know he isn’t a cop. Every aspect of their friendship builds but with an underlying secret. Each page gives you more suspense and makes it so you don’t want to put the book down. There is trauma, thriller, spice and love all wrapped into this book. If you like dark romance that you can’t put down, this is for you!

[Heather Newsome]

I really enjoyed this story. It’s intense from the very start but the story holds true. Maya deserves nothing but true love and happiness

[Patricia Lord]

This is a quick short read that is a thriller full of trauma, secrets, spice and love. It will hold you attention till the end leaving you wanting more and wishing it was a longer read.

[Selina Nagy]

loved this book. well written and plot was good!

[Sandra Ringgaard Coyle]

What an amazing read 😍
I loved every second of it ❤️
As Beta reader, I am so happy I got first hand on this, and I hope you will love it too ❤️
This is a story I will not forget ❤️❤️❤️

[Nicole Wolstenholme]

I received Chasing Maya as an Arc from J.L. Ash. This is my first book by this author and I was not disappointed! This book is a Dark Undercover Thriller Romance. The it was written was perfect. The way the prologue just sucks you in and makes you want to read more. I had to know what was going to happen next. The relationship between Maya and Phoenix was delightfully. The way he would do anything to protect her knowing that it’s only supposed to be a job but he can’t help but be falling in love with her. This book may be short but it gave details and kept me intrigued wanting to know more and what was going to happen next!! This will not be last book by J.L. Ash that is for sure!!

[Rima Ayoub]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Chasing Maya by J.L. Ash was SUCH a good read. Finding out that, Dark thriller romance is my absolute favorite genre to read, and books like this always hook me fast. This one grabbed me right from the start. The first night I picked it up, I was already 50% through before I knew it. Honestly, if life wasn’t lifing and I had started earlier in the day, I probably would’ve finished it in just a few hours.

The storyline is there, the spice is definitely spicing, and it keeps you engaged the whole time. That said…. read the trigger warnings first. The book starts off with a lot of heavy triggers right away, so if you have any, make sure you check that list before diving in.

Even though it’s a short read, it didn’t feel rushed or as if anything was missing. It gets straight to the point in the beginning, which I appreciate because a lot of shorter books can feel crammed and rushed. This one didn’t have that problem at all.

I’ll definitely be checking out more of J.L. Ash’s work. I’m really glad I got the chance to read this one. The writing flows so smoothly, which is always a huge plus for me.

Once again… if you have triggers, read the trigger list first.

Happy reading. Xo 💋

[Jade Godfrey]

I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book and wow… what a ride it was!

From the very first pages the story throws you straight into a dark and dramatic world that instantly hooks you in. I found myself completely pulled into the story and constantly wanting to know what was going to happen next.

The relationship between Phoenix and Maya develops throughout the book and it was amazing to watch their journey unfold. Their connection grows in such an intense way and you really feel the tension, emotion and chemistry between them.

Then you add in the chaos of a murderer hunting Maya and the huge secret that Phoenix is hiding — the fact that he’s actually an undercover cop. That twist adds so much tension and drama to the story and keeps you turning the pages because you just need to know how everything is going to play out.

This book has the perfect mix of suspense, drama, romance and spice. If you’re looking for a fast-paced read with a gripping storyline, intense moments and some smut thrown in then this is definitely the book for you! 📚🔥

[Lisa]

This is full of suspense feelings, love secrets protection and of course mafia dealings
Phoenix and Maya story is amazing Maya not sure about Phoenix at times but he was determined to show her a life that you could provide for her a great read

[Tara]

Really enjoyed this. I did feel some things were a bit rushed, but it can be hard fitting so much in a shorter book. Overall well written and kept me hooked

[Debbie Gladitz]

oh my heart Love Maya n Phoenix

Oh this story was amazing. Clara went through something traumatic five years ago that ended with losing her parents n sister. Her father’s coworkers John n Bryant take her in. They change her name to Maya and hide her from the man (Cartel) who ordered her families deaths. Shes in college now and meets Phoenix. They become quick friends and they start to become closer. But little does she know , Phoenix is keeping a huge secret from her. I didn’t want this story to end. I was captivated from the first chapter. WTG J.L. Ash on this book.

[Heather Pesaresi]

I liked the idea for this story and was actually really excited to read it! There were a few inconsistencies that made it difficult for me to stay submersed though.

[Charlene's Bookish Archives]

J.L. Ash is a new to me author, and I have to say, Chasing Maya was a very good introduction.

Maya has been through something horrific, and five years later she’s still living with the consequences. I really liked that her past wasn’t just used as a plot device. It shapes the way she thinks, the choices she makes, and most importantly, how difficult it is for her to decide who deserves her trust.

Then along comes Phoenix.

There was something about him that had me suspicious from the start. 😂 He’s charming, confident and exactly the kind of distraction Maya needs, but there’s clearly more going on beneath the surface. Watching their relationship develop while knowing Phoenix is keeping something from her added a whole other level of tension.

The cartel storyline brings plenty of danger, but for me, the real question throughout the book was who can Maya actually trust? After everything she’s already lost, putting her heart in someone else’s hands feels almost as risky as the danger chasing her.

I enjoyed the mix of romance, secrets, suspense and twists, and I liked that there was more to the story than simply Maya being rescued from her circumstances. She has her own strength, fears and decisions to deal with, which made her much more interesting to follow.

For a first book from an author I hadn't read before, Chasing Maya definitely left an impression. I’m curious to see what else J.L. Ash has in store because I’d happily pick up another one.

[Aurora]

Chasing Maya sneaks up on you. One minute you’re casually reading, the next you’re emotionally invested and mildly annoyed at fictional people for making questionable life choices.

J.L. Ash delivers a story that blends emotion and intrigue well, with characters that feel real enough to argue with. Maya, in particular, is layered and compelling… even when you want to gently (or not so gently) shake her and say, “please make better decisions.” The relationships have that addictive push-and-pull energy that keeps things interesting, even if it occasionally veers into “we could have solved this with one honest conversation” territory.

The pacing is solid overall, though there are moments where the story lingers just a bit too long, like it’s savoring the drama. Some readers will appreciate the extra depth, others might be mentally nudging things along.

Where the book really wins is in its emotional core. The themes of self-discovery and connection hit home without feeling overly preachy, and by the end, you’re left satisfied… with just enough lingering thoughts to keep you side-eyeing the characters’ decisions days later.

A strong, engaging read with heart, tension, and just enough chaos to keep you hooked. Not perfect, but honestly, neither are the characters—and that’s kind of the point.

[Ashley]

Chasing Maya is a dark, gripping, emotional story. Maya witnessed her family get unalived and she was a victim herself but managed to survive. She refuses to give up her life and live in fear so she decides to go to college. While there she meets Phoenix. Naturally, they start off as friends but they evolve into more. But Phoenix is harboring a massive secret that can largely impact their relationship. Maya has been through so much in her life and it just keeps getting more chaotic. Especially when the leader of the cartel responsible for the death of her family escapes from prison. J.L. Ash manages to pack an amazing story filled with suspense, spice, survival, and love into very few pages. Maya endures and witnesses some extremely traumatic events so make sure you check the triggers before reading.

[The Quiet Heliotrope]

I went into this completely blind and based off the blurb I expected this to be so much more. I enjoyed the writing style. Unfortunately, I found the story to be kind of predictable. It was too short of a book for me to care about the characters since their relationship development was too fast.
Phoenix for an undercover cop was not really good at his job in my opinion as he was clearly shady and Maya for someone whose whole family was murdered in front of her eyes, I would have expected her to trust no one.

I kept wanting more from this story, but it never came.

[Read, Run and Rescue]

Man oh man, this one started with a bang no maybe a foot to the door while it’s being kicked in it didn’t let up either as the story progressed and let us wanting more. I loved Maya and how she showed some true perseverance as she dealt with her trauma and kicked ass and took names. I wish this was longer into enjoyed their interactions and the relationship they had the spice was a spicing wish there was more, but I’m a slut for some good smut. I can’t wait to read more from the author she seems to be checking all the boxes for me!

[Barbara Williams]

Clara/Maya had a really bad experience but she survived. Her family did not. She goes into hiding, going on with her life. Phoenix goes undercover ti help find the killer. But after 5 years, the lies are uncovered by Maya. She feels used and lied to. But then her worse nightmare comes after her, Phoenix has to tell the truth and hope for forgiveness. Will their love survive, you will have to read to find out. Very good short read.

[Rhian Velotti]

I devoured this book. It was a quick read and was over before I realized it. I liked the dynamic of the FMC and MMC just wished due to the writing that it was longer. There’s nothing against this negativity but the storyline to me was there just longed for more after getting sucked into the book. Hoping we see more of the characters or they may get their own book told in their perspective. As always it was a pleasure to get to read.

[B. Shytle]

I have seen the different versions of this. I have watched the author go back and forth on how she wanted the scenes to play out. I watched how much work she put into this book and honestly it is worth the read. Follow along as we get to watch the story arcs between the mmc and the fmc. You won't regret it.

[Gail Pilch]

Fantastic, fantastic. Fantastic.
From start to finish i was hooked,, couldnt put this book down, i was desperate to find out what happened next!!!

This book does have some dark themes but there is a Bonus of a happy ever
It was an emotional rollercoaster so be sure to read the trigger warnings!!

[Liz Ranne]

I liked this! She's a new to me author & this is Maya & Phoenix's story & it was a good one! She went through some terrible trauma & he's in college with her; unfortunately, he's keeping a big secret. Her past catches up to her & puts a lot of people in danger. But, she has so many people on her side & it was wonderful to see. The spice & story were fantastic! Recommend this book & author!

[Jessi]

⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

This book has a lot of potential. The story line is great but it all felt very… rushed. There wasn’t any time to fall in love with the characters, to feel any of their deeper emotions.
I know this is a novella which means short story. I just wish we had more moments with the characters.

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee]

I devoured this story in one sitting as I just couldn’t put it down. Maya and Phoenix got under my skin and I was rooting for them all the way through. I love how Mayas strength shone through. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

[Kymmie H]

Book based on Maya who has experienced a horrible tragedy and Phoenix who comes in her life. The spice was spicy and the storyline was awesome. Fast paced book. Highly recommend. Authors emotions came through this book!!!

[Stephanie Jackson]

A really good short spicy thriller. Honestly really enjoyed it which isn’t a surprise I tend to like all of JL’s books. If you’re looking for a quick book that grips you from the start this is it! Definitely one to read

[Kar Wils]

After what the FMC went through the trauma, the healing, finding love, revenge. I was surprised by the end in a good way. I am happy that Maya did find love and happiness after all she went through. this was a good book and definitely recommend this novella

[Amber]

A fast paced novella where Maya witnesses her family get unalived and goes into protection. Five years later, she meets Phoenix and their chemistry is so good. What Maya doesn't know if Phoenix is hiding something as well.

[rebecca]

This is a really good book. Never read this author before but glad I did. He's a cop who is assigned to protect her. She saw her family murdered by a man who is now after her. The story goes from there. I enjoyed it. recommend