The Games We Play

by Alistair B. Hayward

A phantom in the shadows, moving beneath the shroud of London’s night, David prowls the desolate park. Unaware of danger, his victims fall into his trap with cold precision, solidifying his grim reputation as the ‘London Strangler’. Yet the thrill always wanes, leaving David yearning for a new challenge.Enter Pete. David concocts a sinister game, luring Pete into a macabre dance of manipulation and dread. Ensnared in David’s deadly machinations Pete’s descent into darkness is swift. Amidst terror and deceit, the more paranoia grips him, the further his sanity slips—each step tightening the grip of madness.As the game escalates, lives are lost, minds are fractured, and David’s depravity is laid bare. Only one question Who will emerge triumphant in this deadly duel?The Games We Play delves into the abyss of the human psyche, blurring the line between predator and prey. With each turn, tension mounts, drawing readers deeper into a labyrinth of danger and deception. Prepare to be ensnared, horrified, and utterly enthralled by the twisted games within these haunting pages.

Genres: Horror, Thriller

322 pages, Paperback

Published July 30, 2024

About the author

Alistair B. Hayward is the author of gripping, disturbing serial killer thrillers, including the controversial The Games We Play and the new psychological supernatural mystery, Echoes of a Killer.

With a penchant for high-functioning psychopaths and visceral storytelling, Alistair weaves narratives where ordinary settings harbor extraordinary darkness. His writing is fueled by a love for 80s slasher films and a fascination with the psychology of violence. In Echoes of a Killer, he introduces a unique twist to the genre: a protagonist whose salon chair becomes the most dangerous seat in Los Angeles.

Alistair lives in Auckland, New Zealand. Despite the darkness of his books, he insists he is quite nice in real life.

Reviews

[Carl Bluesy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone needs a friend in the hobby even killers

This was a particularly brutal thriller horror book that dives deep into the mind of a serial killer and his friend.

The two killer start of playing a game about ways to deal with their victims, and as things progress, the trust each other dwindles. And that’s where the real drama and fun of this book was. There was lots to enjoy, but that element was really fun.

If you were a fan of the Dexter show or books this will be a great enjoyable book for you.

[Eve Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy shit holy shit. I need more asap, I can’t believe this is the authors first book, absolutely brilliant. Dark and disturbing but the storyline was amazing. Hope to see more a David soon!!!!!

[Nikki Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

🔪 The Games We Play 🔪
👀 by - @alistairbhayward

Do you love a good serial killer story? A slaughtering tale just in time for Halloween season. 🔪🔪

David is a serial killer. Many deaths under his belt. As he becomes bored, he brings his friend on board, Pete. The only thing is….. Pete will get more than he bargained for. How far are these two willing to go to play the game????

This is not for the faint of heart. If you like your horror a little gruesome, here ya go. Wickedly evil. Disturbing and terrifying…. read The Games We Play!

- Available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited!! Thank you so much Alistair B Hayward for my stunning gifted copy! My review was WAY OVERDUE

4 🔪🔪🔪🔪

[Andi Finnell (spookybooknerd4ever) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all!!!! I'm sitting here contemplating what TF I just read! I absolutely loved it! This book is just pure depravity and debauchery. It will really stick with me a long time.

It definitely gave me American psycho vibes and I think a lot of my horror whores will love this one!!

The chapters are short, which you know I love. We have two POVS and the book flows really easily. Oh, and this is a debut novel!!! GTFOH!!!

This book is about David. David is a serial killer. But he's getting a little bored with just killing people. So he enlists his friend, Pete, to start killing too. But Pete is a little reckless and sloppy. As things start to escalate, we have to remember that the game is chess not checkers. You have to know how to play the game so you don't get caught.

Y'all, please go give this author a follow and go grab this book. I promise you, you will not regret it.

[Chandra Claypool (WhereTheReaderGrows) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full review to come in Scream Magazine.

I love the depravity and storyline itself. However, I did have some issues with it. As a debut, I can only see him improving and giving us more f*cked up stories and I am definitely here for them!

[Natalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes! Yes! Yes! I loved this book!

This was gruesome and raw from beginning to end, the level of cruelty, the explicit of the descriptions and the tension within the whole story makes this book, at least for me, perfection. Is incredibly fast paced, cold blooded and the ending (although the idea crossed my mind at some point) let me speechless; the foggy/ snowy/ cold London scenes take you to the Jack the Ripper vibes but in a modern well thought novel with a little bit of American psycho. Can’t recommend it enough and to my bookghouls out there who love a good reading in their blood and guts, this one is a must! Is just *chef kiss*

[River 🔪🩸 (horror.books.and.chill) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s taken me a few days to wrap my head around this book and truly be able to do a proper review.

I want to start off by saying the author did send me a copy to read and review but these thoughts are all my own.

Now, onto the review.

My first thought about this book was “wow”, but I can’t really just leave that as a review.

Some of my favorite books are about serial killers, and this one had 𝐭𝐰𝐨.

It definitely gave me American Psycho vibes which I enjoyed (now I want to reread it 😂). And while there was a bit of gore throughout, the real disturbing parts happen towards the end (a grand finale so to speak). I enjoyed Dave as a character because although he is a serial killer he’s also got his shit together. He’s been at it a while and is able to discern what’s safe and what isn’t. It’s interesting to watch as Dave is a business man by day, and a killer by night. He goes through the motions, playing the perfect, loving, doting boyfriend but feels no emotion and no love.

Pete.. where do I start with you? He’s like a train wreck that you just can’t look away from. His descent into utter madness is one that’s chaotic and disturbing. You know you shouldn’t enjoy watching it but it’s something you just can’t look away from.

I felt the writing was very well done and gave all the right details in all the right spots. And it is a 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 detailed book, I will say that, which I think added to the bleak atmosphere of the book.

The ending caught me completely off guard, though I did suspect where it was going but not to that extent. It was like a gut punch that left me gasping for air. It’s one of pure depravity that I never in a million years would have guessed.

I highly recommend this book if you enjoy serial killers, and watching them decline into a world of darkness that they can’t get out of.

Alistair really hit it out of the park with this one 👌🏻

[Nicola (deathandthemacabre) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It was at that point that the idea suddenly popped into his head. It came to him as a vision. He saw himself and David standing over a body, as he had previously seen. David had blood all over his white shirt. Pete stood behind David, looking down to see what David had done. Pete had blood on his hands. He looked at the mess on the floor and realised that was the mangled body of a girl: a blood-soaked bra lay on the ground next to the body. What was left of the face belonged to Jo."

David is a serial killer and has been terrorising the streets of both New York and London for years, hailed the London Strangler by the media, but has never been caught. However, David has become bored and seeks to lure someone into playing his games - his best friend Pete.

Pete initially, having been manipulated and blackmailed into playing these games, is apprehensive and terrified.. until he gets a taste of blood and not only becomes obsessed with killing but, as a result, becomes sloppy and unhinged. He's now addicted to getting a better kill than David as well as taking trophies from his victims, ultimately making him dangerous, unpredictable, and highly likely to get caught.

I was very kindly sent this book, and honestly, it was incredible, especially for a debut. I usually have a very short attention span with longer books, but I couldn't put this one down. The writing style is great - it's vivid and descriptive, and I love that it's constantly switching from the perspectives of both David and Pete; both what they're doing/saying aswell as what they're thinking. It also has newspaper articles and TV news reports sprinkled throughout so you can follow the investigations in the media with the killers. SO good.

I love how it was set in London, mentioning so many places I recognise - it was gory, brutal, and absolutely insane. The chapters are really short, which I prefer, and honestly, I'm hoping for a sequel. I had an idea in my head of what I thought was happening, and I was completely wrong! It also gives big American Psycho vibes, but in London.

It's definitely one of my favourite reads of the year. I can't recommend it enough.

[Jasmine Maddy-Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend for anyone who ENJOYS intense and detailed psychological thrillers. Alistair B. Hayward’s The Games We Play is an intense dive into the darkest corners of the human mind. From the first page, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. The story provides a front-row seat into the twisted mind of a serial killer, making for a truly disturbing and immersive experience.

Hayward’s writing is incredibly vivid and detailed, capturing the chilling thoughts and motivations of the characters. The plot is filled with relentless twists and turns that keep you on edge, constantly questioning what’s real and who can be trusted. The pacing is perfect, with each chapter ending in a way that made it impossible to stop reading.

It’s not just about the gruesome acts, but the intricate mind games and the intense paranoia that drive the characters. This book really made me feel the thrill and the darkness that consumes them.

[mrsbookburnee Niamh Burnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a nice fluffy read, this is not for you… but if you like your thrillers as dark as can be! Then this be for you!! This is the darkest of the dark.

I was immediately immersed in this book, the dual POV and the different media aspects really added to the experience, honestly how is this a debut?!!.

I loved the darkness of our protagonists actions and how descriptive these were, the author doesn’t hold anything back, despite how twisted David and Pete were, I really liked them both! David was fascinating, how he has managed to stay under the radar for so long. Peter was endearing, psychotic, but endearing, to me he seemed like one of life’s losers and he seemed like he didn’t get one up on everyone.

Despite the terror I felt whilst reading this, the ending made me feel quite emotional, with me feeling sorry for Pete. Not many thrillers can evoke a wide range of feelings in thrillers, so kudos to the author (again, a debut??)

[Rachel M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Come meet David. David loves the thrill of a kill, the suspense that builds, the actual kill, the waiting until the body is discovered then the investigation that follows. But you know when you do things too many times, you loose excitement, the thrill, you don’t get quite the same high. David is dead set on chasing that high, he ups his game by enticing his friend Pete to join in with the killing spree. Now Pete doesn’t know David is the serial killer known as the ‘London Strangler’ but in turn David is unaware just how dark and depraved Pete is. David is a Pro at the game, Pete is an amateur, but David made the choice to invite Pete to the game and this is one sick, twisted game.

[Honey Dy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, thank you so much, Alistair, for gifting me my very own copy of this book. After reading it, I'm thrilled to have it as part of my collection.
This is one of the best serial killer books I've ever read. It’s sophisticated, premeditated, and meticulously structured, making me think you truly got inside the mind of a serial killer.

The book delved into the dark thoughts and detailed planning of a killer striving to achieve the perfect kill without getting caught. It’s like a cat-and-mouse game where timing was everything, and I was utterly hooked from the start.

I was completely immersed in the killer’s perspective, describing the kills, the risks, and the precautions, which further heightened the excitement in reading this book, and the format, through the eyes of the killer, made it even more gripping, keeping me on the edge of my seat.

I found this book totally unhinged, out of control, and adrenaline-fueled, much like my review, and I just can't stop raving about it. The ending was a COMPLETE SHOCKER - completely unpredictable and brilliantly executed. 👏 👏👏

The book also poses a few intriguing questions that I'd like to ask you, Alistair? Who is the real mastermind—the killer or the apprentice? The adrenaline rush was intense, my heart raced, and I was constantly on the edge. The dual POV of Pete and David added both depth and the thrill, and I particularly enjoyed seeing Pete become unhinged.

All I can say is you, Alistair Hayward, you're definitely a man worth watching and taking note of! If The Games We Play is just a snippet of what comes out of your ingenous mind, then sign me up for all your future work!!!

Thanks again for giving me this amazing reading experience. Saying you hope I like it is an understatement to the true feelings I have about this book.....I FKN LOVED IT ♥️

[Michelle Yandle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here's a revised version:

---

I was so stoked when the author asked to send me a copy. After multiple warnings about how dark it was, I started to wonder what I was getting myself into. But when I read it and thought, *that wasn’t so bad*, I questioned if there was something wrong with me 😂. After reading “Brother” and some of Chris Carter’s books, this one, while uncomfortable at times, wasn’t too intense for me. I don’t read books for the gore, and while some stories push boundaries at the expense of the plot, this was actually well-written and kept me intrigued.

The story follows two different serial killers, each playing off the other in a twisted game. The little hints dropped throughout the story made me eager to uncover what “game” David was orchestrating. There were two very different perceptions of what the game was, and I was hooked, wanting to know what David had in mind.

I’ve always been fascinated by psychology, and I appreciated how the author explored the thought processes of two distinct sociopaths—one in control and one losing it.

The tension built throughout the story, and though it made me uncomfortable at times (I’m not a sociopath), I was compelled to keep reading.

Be warned, this isn’t for the faint-hearted and definitely pushes some boundaries, but the writing is solid! And I love that it’s by an NZ author! Looking forward to what you create next. Thanks for gifting me your book!

#BookReview #DarkThriller #PsychologicalThriller #SerialKillers #BookRecommendations #Bookstagram #NZAuthors #AmReading #ThrillerBooks #CrimeFiction #MustRead #Bibliophile #BookLover

[Tory Kekailoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️🍽️

The Games We Play is an absolute masterpiece of a debut novel.
@alistairbhayward - I told you before and i’ll tell you again.. you are something else.. a mastermind 🪄🤌🏼

The prologue had me by the throat and didn’t release me out of that choke hold until the very last page. It’s raw, it’s graphic, it’s gory, it’s emotional, it’s brutal, it’s violent, it’s fucking brilliant.
The Games We Play may be considered a psychological thriller, but it is SO much more. The way Alistair weaves in elements of splatter punk and horror? Alistair Picasso 🎨

This book also has short chapters, which I love! It made it TOO easy to say “ok just one more chapter” and then one chapter turns into 20 more.. His writing is amazing. It will suck you in without a doubt.

In the story, we start off by following David, who is a husband/office man by day — The London Strangler by night. When David starts to get bored with his killings, he invites a friend along to play a fun little game. A fun little game that quickly spirals out of control. Pete is nothing like David. He is inexperienced, unhinged, and just straight RUTHLESS. His killings are MESSY. They are BRUTAL. And they are written sooo precisely. Being able to read from the povs of both men was an absolute wild experience. Both so different, yet so interesting. They also both felt so real! He did a great job at really bringing these characters to life. I felt so invested in their daily lives. We are also introduced to their wives, which added so much more emotion to the story..

This book was a roller coaster to say the least. It’s an adrenaline rush in book form. It’s one that I’ll have on my mind for a long time. It is a true work of art and I truly recommend it to all of my friends who love anything thriller, psychological, violence, gore, serial killer, and dark shit. If you love serial killer docs, THIS IS FOR YOU. If you want to dip into a little bit of splatter, try this out.

Thank you so much @alistairbhayward for sending me a copy and trusting me with your debut. I can’t wait to see this blow up!! You deserve it all!❤️‍🔥

[Riccardo Ball · Rating 3 out of 5]

How to describe this book? American Psycho in London maybe? Certainly has an American Psycho meets Wolfcreek vibe.

It’s a real page turner and gets into things right away and considering it’s a debut novel it doesn’t get weighed down in too much world building but there were a couple of inconsistencies.

I found it really hard to rate this book because of the extreme content - honestly I love horror and true crime but I flinched a few times in this read - the book should come with a warning - sadistic torture at times so be warned!

[Thrillergeek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wowww what did I just read...I'm shocked. Never have I read a book in which such extreme content. The writer said it was not for the fainted heart. Well, he didn't exaggerate...

But I must admit that the story is written brilliantly, the strange thing was that I wanted to read it, to know how it would end.

This story is all written from the murders point of view. It is also a story about two friends and their wife's. These are the 4 most important people in the story.
It is a gripping and nail-biting story. There were a few times I needed to put to book away, it was explicate in details.

But man, this man can write. If you don't like extreme violence and very detailed extreme content, don't read it
Otherwise, have a go because it left me flabbergasted.... this is a book which will stay with me for a long time

[Nicole Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Moly. This is not for the faint hearted but I couldn’t put it down. The book starts with David - a serial killer somewhat bored with his current game. He brings on a new pawn and the new game starts. Al’s ability to flick between the narrative of the two characters is done impeccably. I found myself having empathy for one of the characters - then in the next chapter literally horrified at his actions!
The book itself is graphic and deals with brutality, gore and sexual assault so readers should be aware of this.
Loved the ending. A brilliant debut novel!

[Mairi MacDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emmm what did I just read? As brutal and gruesome as it was I couldn't put this down and was eager to see how things panned out!
It was very well written and had nice short chapters which I love. This was so messaged up but I loved it!

This isn't for the faint hearted! It comes with a lot of trigger warnings so if your easily disturbed or triggered by things like se*ual assault then I would avoid.

[Emily Arrington · Rating 4 out of 5]

don’t be an idiot like me and skip the trigger warning

it would have been 5 stars but Pete honestly scared me so much I considered not finishing the book but I’m glad I did

[Char Mullarkey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow. My brain after finishing this 🤯 such a good twist near the end. I couldn’t put this book down, it’s gripping and the short chapters make it even more so. I love a short chapter!

It’s written in such a clever way that one of the characters makes the other seem ‘normal’ at times, even though he is a sadistic serial killer.

This book is NOT for the faint hearted, it’s very graphic, contains lots of intense descriptions of extreme violence and gore (and murder obviously) and also of sexual assault/rape, so make sure you are ready for that before reading.

That being said, this is a brilliant debut book and this author is 100% one to watch for future books also!!!

[Michelle Sherrier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is everything I’ve ever wanted and more! It was so dark and gruesome, I loved every minute of it! If you like a dark disturbing serial killer read this should be your next choice for sure.

[Grace · Rating 1 out of 5]

20% through and it was just awful to read, really disturbing, and I can't deal with it

[Bex Baines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very intense and very graphic. A disturbing but enticing read.

The writing in the first chapter was finding its feet a bit, but I felt it really elevated throughout the book. The perspective changes I thought were well executed and what an ending!

[Dylan Bosworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, well, well…

What do we have here?

The Games We Play is touted as “the most controversial thriller of 2024”. Is it? You’ll have to be the judge of that. What I can proudly say is:

This debut novel is absolutely brutal and full of gore and abject violence, but that isn’t all there is to it. As opposed to the genres with explicit gore, where the violence and the gore is almost a character itself–where the story often doesn’t really involve a plot, and its main focus is to be as gross as possible–The Games We Play is a sprawling, intertwined, psychological thriller that just so happens to be disgusting as all hell.

And why shouldn’t it be?

We follow David, a loving, responsible fiancé, who at night is a brutal serial killer known as the London Strangler. David is getting bored and decides to manipulate his “friend," Pete, into a complex web, where murder is a competition.

The inherent violence, gore, and terror of serial murder is displayed as honestly as I’ve seen in most crime thriller books. Many writers shy away from the filth and disgust that comes with serial killings while also struggling to catch the honesty–the lack of empathy behind the eyes of the killer.

Alistair B. Hayward fulfills this promise without succumbing to either a) toning down the violence, or b) sacrificing prose work to appeal to the elevation of gore for the sake of shock.

His writing is elegant, even when describing torturous scenes that will make the squeamish look away, the gore-hounds begin to drool, and the psychos smile. My problem with the splatter genres has always been the lackluster writing. The bad line-work. It’s clear that most gore-horror is not traditionally publishable due to the extreme content, and thus, is unguarded by the quality filter of talent gate-keepers like agents, and publishers.

This, although not labeled splatterpunk (only comparative due to the violence), breaks the mold. The gore is worthy of that of a Judith Sonnet novel, a Mique Watson novella, hell, even old Stuart Bray status. However, there is a plot. There is character development. There is voice and tone, and God, there is beauty behind the words.

Alistair is able to give each character their own, uniquely different voice, as he invokes the unique ability to ride inside the skull of those characters he’s fleshing out; and the characters are so well developed, you can tell whose point of view you’re reading within only a few words of each chapter.

If you are looking for a complex thriller filled with twists and turns and competitive serial-killer violence, this is for you. If you love the horror and gore of splatter-themed books, but are tired of the lack of emphasis on good prose-writing, then this is for you. If you simply love true-crime, killer stories, and unpredictable chapter endings, guess what, this is for you.

The only issue I have with this novel is that sometimes it can be too involved in the characters’ day-to-day activities–like getting from point A to point B; HOWEVER, this is also reminiscent of Brett Easton Ellis’s long descriptive texts that seemed to have no meaning, IF you missed the purpose of displaying the shallowness, not just of Patrick Bateman, but the shallowness of 1980’s business-culture itself.

I’m going with 5/5 stars. Check your triggers before going in. I’d warn against just about all triggers.

[Priscilla BookaddictNL · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘The Games We Play’ by Alistair B. Hayward is an intriguing and fascinating dive into the minds of killers, exploring the darkest corners of human nature.

The story grabs hold of you from the first page and doesn’t let go, with vivid, detailed descriptions that bring the gruesome and bloody events to life in a way that is both shocking and captivating.

Oh boy I L O V E D the details and the level of cruelty! The violence was extreme and detailed.

Scooping out eyeballs are a trigger for me, so I almost vomited sometimes 😂

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the contrast between the two main characters, David and Pete.

Hayward has crafted two very different kinds of murderers, each with distinct motivations and methods.

David, in particular, stood out to me as a character. His meticulous, calculating nature reminded me of Dexter’s, but with a more grounded, realistic edge that made him feel disturbingly plausible.

I really loved David!

While I thoroughly enjoyed the story and found the pacing and imagery excellent, I did feel that the relationship between David and Pete could have been explored in more depth.

Their dynamic is intriguing, and I was left wanting more background and insight into their connection, which felt somewhat underdeveloped given its importance to the narrative.

What happened in their past and how did they end up here?

That said, Hayward’s writing style is gripping and immersive. His ability to paint scenes with such precision and detail makes the story come alive.

The plot of this story was so awesome and executed very well. I really didn't see the ending coming. It surprised me in a good way!

If you enjoy very dark, graphic thrillers/horror from the povs of the murderers, ‘The Games We Play’ is a must-read.

But keep in mind: this story is not for everyone. Definitely not for the fainted heart!

It was a chilling, well-written thriller that will stay with me for a long time.

Alistair your ‘writer mind’ is sick, and I loved it! 😂😍🖤

[Fauwxx · Rating 2 out of 5]

First of all, thank you so much to author Alistair B. Hayward for sending me a copy of his debut novel, 'The Games We Play'. The quick synopsis is David (serial killer) and his friend from college Pete get involved in a dangerous game of murder tag. David somehow convinces Pete to 'play a game' with him and dares Pete to kill a person. Pete accepts, shenanigans ensue.
.
The Prologue of this novel really grabbed my attention, and I was really interested for the first 1/4 of the book. The author is clearly a very talented writer, his prose are very well written and very descriptive.
.
Although the first 1/4 of the book really had me intrigued, it started to feel like an episode of Dexter. Specifically when Dexter and The Trinity Killer start playing games with each other. I really loved Dexter (even though he was a psychopath), but I think there wasn't enough character building in this novel to get me really invested in David, Pete or their significant others. I also felt like there wasn't enough juxtaposition between David and Pete. They both felt like they had the same personalities (cheating, killing, psychopaths).
.
The whole middle of the book really made me want to DNF it. It was filled with things that I didn't think were necessary to the story - but I think the author put them there to try and show the reader that even though David is a psychopath - he's starting to feel things. I don't want to spoil things - but they just didn't make sense to me.
.
The last quarter of the novel does read like an extreme horror novel/splatterpunk novel. The gore and murders are vile and the final twist was very good! I didn't expect it at all. As for the murder scenes in the earlier parts of the book, I didn't find them to be that disturbing.
.
Once again I feel like the odd man out on this book as a lot of reviewers are giving this book 5 stars. Sadly, I have to give this book 2 stars. It took so much of my willpower to not DNF this. I think if a lot of the unnecessary chapters/information was edited out and the characters were better developed- I probably would have enjoyed this book a lot more. But as always, just because I didn't like it, doesn't mean you won't!

[SmuttySamReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Masterpiece of Psychological Horror—I'm Already Obsessed!
Rarely does a book pull you into the abyss so completely, but The Games We Play manages to do just that. This isn't just a thriller; it's a chilling, sophisticated descent into the twisted genius of its antagonist, David, and the desperate paranoia of his target, Pete. From the very first page, this novel grabbed hold and refused to let go, earning every one of its five stars.

The opening introduces us to David, the "London Strangler," a character who is terrifying because of his profound boredom and his need for intellectual stimulation. His shift from random violence to a targeted, calculated game with Pete is where the story truly becomes electrifying. This is a chess match played with human lives, and the stakes couldn't be higher.

What makes this book a masterpiece is the way it blurs the line between predator and prey. We don't just witness Pete's physical entrapment; we experience his mental and emotional fracturing. The author masterfully uses psychological manipulation, deceit, and escalating paranoia to tighten the noose around Pete’s sanity. Every twist, every turn, makes you question what is real and what is just another calculated move in David's macabre duel. The tension is palpable, the suspense is exquisite, and the pacing is absolutely relentless.

This novel is not for the faint of heart—it delves deep into the abyss of the human psyche—but for fans of dark, intelligent, character-driven thrillers, this is an essential read. The finale is explosive and leaves just enough on the table to make the wait for the next book unbearable. I am completely ensnared and utterly enthralled. If the second book is even half as good as this debut, we are in for an incredible series!

[Paige Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Games We Play explores the darkest depths within the brain of the human psyche. This book is graphic, brutal and not for the faint of heart. This book has dual POV’s and had me in a chokehold. Just when I didn’t think it could get any darker, Alistair continued to prove me wrong after each murder took place.

David is a cold-blooded serial killer. He gets off on killing and decides to blackmail his friend into partaking in the thrill of the game with him. Pete is the perfect partner because he harbors a dark secret just like David. David is growing bored killing alone and he thinks by tricking his friend and luring him into his sadistic game that it will bring that spark back for him that he desires most.

Pete starts to get sloppy with the game and he becomes so addicted that he isn’t thinking logically anymore, leaving David to clean up his mess so they don’t get caught. David grows tired of Pete’s constant mistakes and soon takes matters in a different direction.

Alistair did a marvelous job writing this dark and twisted story. The writing was so vivid and meticulously detailed and painted the perfect picture in one’s mind while reading. There was SO MUCH blood and gore. I loved the newspaper clippings that followed each murder as if we were in real time seeing everything unfold as a reader. It truly was like watching a movie in one’s mind.

Thank you so much, Alistair, for sending me a copy of your novel. I can’t believe this was your DEBUT! I was thoroughly impressed. I look forward to reading future projects from you.

American Psycho fans with love this one!

[Liv R · Rating 5 out of 5]

David, a notorious serial killer known as the London Strangler, has been terrorizing the streets of both New York and London for years, evading capture. But as the thrill of his crimes begins to fade, David grows bored and seeks a new challenge luring his best friend, Pete, into playing his deadly games.

Initially, Pete is reluctant and terrified, manipulated and blackmailed into participating. However, once he tastes blood, everything changes. Pete becomes obsessed with outdoing David, sinking deeper into a dark obsession with murder. His need to one up his friend leads to reckless behavior and a dangerous descent into madness. His thirst for blood, along with his penchant for taking trophies from victims, makes him increasingly unpredictable and more likely to be caught.

This book blew me away! Amazing! Hard to believe this is Alistair B. Hayward's debut!! This read kept me hooked from start to finish. The writing style is vivid and descriptive, and I loved how the narrative alternates between David and Pete’s perspectives, offering insight into their actions, dialogue, and inner thoughts. The inclusion of newspaper articles and TV news reports throughout the story adds an immersive layer, allowing readers to follow the investigation in real-time alongside the killers.

This book was set in London, the book references so many familiar locations, making the gritty, brutal story even more engaging. The chapters are short and to the point, which I really appreciated, and I’m definitely hoping for a sequel. The twists in the plot completely caught me off guard. I thought I had it all figured out, but I was so wrong!

[Abel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book does have in depth description of rape, sexual assault, violence against women and well..murder and gore

This was something I've been looking for in extreme horror. Something that's well detailed and developed instead of "and this happened! and this edgy thing happen! ohhh and the protag is fat and ugly too and don't bathe!"

It was exhausting that this book was a twisted breath of fresh air.

The novel itself did feel like it had American Psycho inspiration with David and his inner monologues I found it interesting and at times humorous with how it matches Patrick Bateman at times. I enjoyed his own perspective and approach to his crimes especially him kick starting the game with his "friend" and coworker, Pete.

Pete is unfamiliar with committing murder until he gets a taste. Throughout the novel you see the POV of a skilled killer and a pure amateur. Pete's increasing depravity really kickstarts the novel as you have no idea what he'd do next on top of his sloppy approach to things.

There were times where I shook my head with Pete's actions and his train of thought. Caught myself thinking like David where he inernally comments how amateurish he is.

I had a good time with it and didn't expect to be such a page turner!

Technically I'd give this a 4.5 but I feel it kind of lives up to the shock factor and actually gives it purpose and show the depravity of two killers.