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Touch of Evil #8
Echoes of Sin
Prepare for the chilling echoes of truth to be unraveled one page at a time in the latest psychological thriller by USA Today Bestselling Author Kennedy Layne…
Fear has taken root within a small mountain town as a serial killer stalks the isolated trails of the Smoky Mountains. The remains left behind leave little doubt that the victims have suffered excruciating deaths. The brutal nature of the murders has left a local community shaken and afraid for their own safety.
Brooklyn Sloane and her investigative unit are brought in by the FBI to uncover the truth behind these horrific atrocities. After examining the crime scenes, Brook’s criminal profile begins to emerge, revealing that the killer is intimately familiar with the terrain. He even possesses a knowledge of the mountains known only to someone who lives amongst the residents.
When another hiker goes missing, the stakes are raised and the clock is reset. With the killer hidden in a fog of anonymity, Brook and her team have no choice but to devise an elaborate plan—one that could very well put her own life at risk—to lure the killer out of shadows.
Fear has taken root within a small mountain town as a serial killer stalks the isolated trails of the Smoky Mountains. The remains left behind leave little doubt that the victims have suffered excruciating deaths. The brutal nature of the murders has left a local community shaken and afraid for their own safety.
Brooklyn Sloane and her investigative unit are brought in by the FBI to uncover the truth behind these horrific atrocities. After examining the crime scenes, Brook’s criminal profile begins to emerge, revealing that the killer is intimately familiar with the terrain. He even possesses a knowledge of the mountains known only to someone who lives amongst the residents.
When another hiker goes missing, the stakes are raised and the clock is reset. With the killer hidden in a fog of anonymity, Brook and her team have no choice but to devise an elaborate plan—one that could very well put her own life at risk—to lure the killer out of shadows.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2023
619 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Kennedy Layne
158 books661 followersKennedy Layne is a USA Today bestselling author. She draws inspiration for her romantic thrillers in part from her not-so-secret second life as a wife of a retired Marine Master Sergeant. He doubles as her critique partner, beta reader, and military consultant. Kennedy also has a deep love for cozy mysteries, thrillers, and basically any book that can keep her guessing until the very end. They live in the Midwest with their menagerie of pets. The loyal dogs and mischievous cats appreciate her writing days as much as she does, usually curled up in front of the fireplace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 22, 2024
December? I have to wait until December???
Okay just finished the story and discovered that he final book will not be released until December. I am so sad. How will I live without these characters. Everyone of them has grown on me and I feel bereft. Theo, Sylvie, Bit, Brook, and even Arden have become known to me in such a way I care what happens to them. They are real to me. This series has totally captivated me . brook is the perfect profiler. Her serial killer brother set her down this path but she has such mad skills and I love her 'aha' moments when she realizes who the killer is. it's fascinating. I can't wait to see the last book in the series. While it pains me that it won't be until December, it pains me more to know that the end is nigh for Brook and her team. I bet its going to be epic.
Okay just finished the story and discovered that he final book will not be released until December. I am so sad. How will I live without these characters. Everyone of them has grown on me and I feel bereft. Theo, Sylvie, Bit, Brook, and even Arden have become known to me in such a way I care what happens to them. They are real to me. This series has totally captivated me . brook is the perfect profiler. Her serial killer brother set her down this path but she has such mad skills and I love her 'aha' moments when she realizes who the killer is. it's fascinating. I can't wait to see the last book in the series. While it pains me that it won't be until December, it pains me more to know that the end is nigh for Brook and her team. I bet its going to be epic.
July 18, 2023
Love this series. It's still fresh and as captivating as the first book. After the ending of the last book, I was in anticipation of two things - one that Brooke would get a break from worrying about Jacob and two knowing the only way she is ever going to get rid of him is if he dies.
As with all the other books the case the team end up working is always fascinating and keeps your interesting from beginning to end.
As with all the other books the case the team end up working is always fascinating and keeps your interesting from beginning to end.
April 8, 2025
Holy Cannoli! This series is so OUTSTANDING. Every book gets better. I love the characters, it’s fast paced like whiplash fast and always leaves you wanting more.
If you are a fan of crime thrillers as much as I am, then add this series to your must read. And it’s on kindle unlimited too. You will soon be as addicted as I am!
If you are a fan of crime thrillers as much as I am, then add this series to your must read. And it’s on kindle unlimited too. You will soon be as addicted as I am!
December 2, 2025
4 – 4.5 Stars
Evil touches our lives every day.
We don’t always see it, hear it, or touch it…but it’s there all the same.
Follow along as Brooklyn Sloane, a former consultant for the FBI, takes on cold cases that are thrown on a random desk to gather dust without a second thought to the victims’ families left behind. She knows all too well what it’s like to be the one left with nothing but unanswered questions. Her renowned career as a federal profiler was built on apprehending only the most notorious serial killers who made the front page of the national newspapers. Unfortunately, she failed to bring to justice the one who stained her soul—her very own brother. He is still out there hunting, but she fully intends to be the one who ends his reign of terror.
Echoes of Sin is the fourth book in the Touch of Evil Series by Kennedy Layne.
Touch of Evil is a gripping blend of psychological intrigue, suspense, and raw emotion and follows Brooklyn Sloane, a former FBI consultant turned private investigator, as she tackles cold cases and confronts her own haunting past.
Brooklyn is a standout FMC – she’s intelligent, determined, and yet deeply flawed. Her relentless pursuit of justice, particularly as she hunts for her estranged brother, who is a cunning serial killer, definitely added extra intrigue as well as a deeply personal layer to the overarching story. Ms. Layne seems to easily manage to delve into Brooklyn’s psyche while also maintaining the tension of the mysteries.
Each book is a carefully crafted puzzle, with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. The dark, moody tone is balanced by moments of vulnerability and humanity, making the characters feel real and very relatable. Ms. Layne’s writing is sharp and evocative, painting vivid scenes that draw you into the world of crime and justice.
It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys a story that challenges the mind and tugs at the heartstrings. Prepare to be captivated - and maybe even a little haunted - by this unforgettable series.
Happy Reading…
Evil touches our lives every day.
We don’t always see it, hear it, or touch it…but it’s there all the same.
Follow along as Brooklyn Sloane, a former consultant for the FBI, takes on cold cases that are thrown on a random desk to gather dust without a second thought to the victims’ families left behind. She knows all too well what it’s like to be the one left with nothing but unanswered questions. Her renowned career as a federal profiler was built on apprehending only the most notorious serial killers who made the front page of the national newspapers. Unfortunately, she failed to bring to justice the one who stained her soul—her very own brother. He is still out there hunting, but she fully intends to be the one who ends his reign of terror.
Echoes of Sin is the fourth book in the Touch of Evil Series by Kennedy Layne.
Touch of Evil is a gripping blend of psychological intrigue, suspense, and raw emotion and follows Brooklyn Sloane, a former FBI consultant turned private investigator, as she tackles cold cases and confronts her own haunting past.
Brooklyn is a standout FMC – she’s intelligent, determined, and yet deeply flawed. Her relentless pursuit of justice, particularly as she hunts for her estranged brother, who is a cunning serial killer, definitely added extra intrigue as well as a deeply personal layer to the overarching story. Ms. Layne seems to easily manage to delve into Brooklyn’s psyche while also maintaining the tension of the mysteries.
Each book is a carefully crafted puzzle, with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. The dark, moody tone is balanced by moments of vulnerability and humanity, making the characters feel real and very relatable. Ms. Layne’s writing is sharp and evocative, painting vivid scenes that draw you into the world of crime and justice.
It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys a story that challenges the mind and tugs at the heartstrings. Prepare to be captivated - and maybe even a little haunted - by this unforgettable series.
Happy Reading…
May 10, 2024
I feel like for the first time Brook realizes and treats her team as family. I know we've been moving to this, but she actually was telling people about how the company worked. Plus she wanted Sylvie to go home and she reached out to Graham to send her things. She's so much softer/relaxed now, which I know isn't saying much as she's still very buttoned up with those she hasn't let past her walls. I was surprised she shared as much as she did with the Sheriff.
The crime was awful, more so when we got to the end and found out why and who the bad guy was. Part of me hated what happened with them and part of me figured it was the least they deserved.
And Jacob...why does it feel like he has so many things planned out, so that even if 1 is blocked, there is still another way open to him and his evil plans.
The crime was awful, more so when we got to the end and found out why and who the bad guy was. Part of me hated what happened with them and part of me figured it was the least they deserved.
And Jacob...why does it feel like he has so many things planned out, so that even if 1 is blocked, there is still another way open to him and his evil plans.
November 13, 2024
Brook Sloane and the team at S&E Investigations are in the Smokey Mountains. The FBI has requested their help when a woman who went missing is discovered in a cabin up in the mountains. Brook delivers the profile and believes it’s a serial killer. She also thinks he is local and has knowledge of the mountains and hiking trails. When another woman comes up missing, Brook sets a plan in motion that could catch the killer but will it put her life at risk too?
I really liked this story. Plenty of suspense. New characters. A serial killer. No sex or sexual tension. Brook is good at her job and has great colleagues helping. There were many grammatical errors. Can’t wait to read the next one.
I really liked this story. Plenty of suspense. New characters. A serial killer. No sex or sexual tension. Brook is good at her job and has great colleagues helping. There were many grammatical errors. Can’t wait to read the next one.
December 28, 2024
A shift in view
Brook and team are in the field and on an active case. Their knowledge notices a murder is not just a murder but signature of a serial killer in the area. Seeing how they adapt to different locations and situations was fascinating, especially with the extra and new emotional issues that Sylvie had to face with her dad. Bit was a superstar and shared his capabilities and loyalty in several different scenes. Graham was only slightly in the book but as a sign of possibilities and warmth. The locals were colorful and all had so many secrets. The sheriff was great and I would like to see him again! A good book with a great twist courtesy of Jacob at the end
Brook and team are in the field and on an active case. Their knowledge notices a murder is not just a murder but signature of a serial killer in the area. Seeing how they adapt to different locations and situations was fascinating, especially with the extra and new emotional issues that Sylvie had to face with her dad. Bit was a superstar and shared his capabilities and loyalty in several different scenes. Graham was only slightly in the book but as a sign of possibilities and warmth. The locals were colorful and all had so many secrets. The sheriff was great and I would like to see him again! A good book with a great twist courtesy of Jacob at the end
July 21, 2023
Echoes of Sin😈
Another fantastic demonstration of this author’s storytelling abilities! Brook is yet again caught up in an active investigation when the body of a murdered female hiker is discovered. Due to federal jurisdiction rather than handing over the case to a local FBI office, Brook decides to take on this case with her team. Their discoveries about the killer are chilling and kept me on the edge of my seat❣️
I’m excited to see what’s in store for everyone next and what Brook’s brother Jacob has planned😳 Absolutely love this series and can’t recommend it enough🙌
Another fantastic demonstration of this author’s storytelling abilities! Brook is yet again caught up in an active investigation when the body of a murdered female hiker is discovered. Due to federal jurisdiction rather than handing over the case to a local FBI office, Brook decides to take on this case with her team. Their discoveries about the killer are chilling and kept me on the edge of my seat❣️
I’m excited to see what’s in store for everyone next and what Brook’s brother Jacob has planned😳 Absolutely love this series and can’t recommend it enough🙌
November 7, 2024
A Captivating Story
This is the first book in the series that I've read, and it was an outstanding read. I was so utterly captivated by every word, that I couldn't put it down. It's a psychological thriller and crime mystery drama, with a wide variety of creative characters. The details and descriptions are so well written in to the story that you can perfectly picture each scenario with a sense of realism that puts you right in the middle of the investigation with the characters. It's a highly recommended read. Now, I want to read the whole series.
This is the first book in the series that I've read, and it was an outstanding read. I was so utterly captivated by every word, that I couldn't put it down. It's a psychological thriller and crime mystery drama, with a wide variety of creative characters. The details and descriptions are so well written in to the story that you can perfectly picture each scenario with a sense of realism that puts you right in the middle of the investigation with the characters. It's a highly recommended read. Now, I want to read the whole series.
November 9, 2024
I enjoyed this book very much, the storyline was well written and the pace was good too. The members of the investigation team are all individuals, and you feel like you are getting to know them. There is a sub plot regarding a particularly nasty serial killer.
I am looking forward to reading more in this series, to find out more regarding the sub plot and to engage with the team again.
I am looking forward to reading more in this series, to find out more regarding the sub plot and to engage with the team again.
November 16, 2024
pretty solid
(2 1/2). This is a fun procedural effort. We have a nice protagonist in Brook Sloan, a very entertaining support cast, and the ever present overriding specter of Brook’s extremely evil brother. Lots of reveals, good tech work and logical thinking drive this story to a nice finish that makes a pretty lightweight read feel good. Pretty good stuff.
(2 1/2). This is a fun procedural effort. We have a nice protagonist in Brook Sloan, a very entertaining support cast, and the ever present overriding specter of Brook’s extremely evil brother. Lots of reveals, good tech work and logical thinking drive this story to a nice finish that makes a pretty lightweight read feel good. Pretty good stuff.
May 2, 2025
This series is great. The author makes you really involved with the characters and you care what is happening with them. You just can't wait to get to the next story. I am so glad Brook & Graham got together, I just hope nothing really bad happens to Graham knowing Brooks brother doesn't want her happy. On to number 9.
May 12, 2025
Unfortunately, this book ended up being my least favorite of the series, and I found myself constantly putting it down — I actually procrastinated finishing it, which says a lot considering how much I enjoyed the earlier books. The characters felt flat this time around, and the plot meandered without the tension or emotional depth that made the previous books so compelling.
July 17, 2023
great book
This series is the perfect example of why I prefer to read a series after it is complete. I can’t wait til the next book comes out. I’ve always loved her writing and books, but this series is one of the best I have read ny anyone.
This series is the perfect example of why I prefer to read a series after it is complete. I can’t wait til the next book comes out. I’ve always loved her writing and books, but this series is one of the best I have read ny anyone.
August 3, 2023
Loved, loved, LOVED!
What a ride this one was! Had me on tender hooks the whole way through!
This is a “live” case Brook & Co are investigating and as usual is expertly written and great story telling.
I did not see the unsub being who they were at all!
And JACOB!!!
Read Read READ
What a ride this one was! Had me on tender hooks the whole way through!
This is a “live” case Brook & Co are investigating and as usual is expertly written and great story telling.
I did not see the unsub being who they were at all!
And JACOB!!!
Read Read READ
August 28, 2023
Debbi likes to read
This series just gets better and better. It’s going to be hard to wait until December for the next book. Each book leaves you wanting more. Talk about a cliffhanger. Kennedy Layne has made a fan out of me. Do yourself a favor and read this Series.
This series just gets better and better. It’s going to be hard to wait until December for the next book. Each book leaves you wanting more. Talk about a cliffhanger. Kennedy Layne has made a fan out of me. Do yourself a favor and read this Series.
September 2, 2023
great
Amazing writing and captivating story. This set of books is so good. Book hangover after each one. The following and froth of the integral characters makes all the more interesting
Amazing writing and captivating story. This set of books is so good. Book hangover after each one. The following and froth of the integral characters makes all the more interesting
October 15, 2024
Another good read
Kennedy Layne 's series is excellent And her characters are well defined making for good story lines. If you like books in the JD Robb vein you will enjoy these books.
Kennedy Layne 's series is excellent And her characters are well defined making for good story lines. If you like books in the JD Robb vein you will enjoy these books.
November 7, 2024
Engaging
A serial killer who has mutilated young women in the N.C. mountains. The leader of the team, Brook is a strong minded individual who owns a firm consulted by the FBI to find the killer. An engaging story with a very surprising (actually 2) endings.
A serial killer who has mutilated young women in the N.C. mountains. The leader of the team, Brook is a strong minded individual who owns a firm consulted by the FBI to find the killer. An engaging story with a very surprising (actually 2) endings.
November 14, 2024
Past deeds
Mistaken identity! Anger, heartache cases such terrible things to happen to some people's minds. This book was hard to put down. Thrilling, adventurous, edge of the seat. If you like reviting , murder thriller this book is for you!
Mistaken identity! Anger, heartache cases such terrible things to happen to some people's minds. This book was hard to put down. Thrilling, adventurous, edge of the seat. If you like reviting , murder thriller this book is for you!
April 6, 2025
I’m seven books into this series and I’ve got to say that I admire the way the heroine can remain calm under the pressure of other’s opinions of her.
Another great read with a page turning storyline and a cast of characters that added depth.
Another great read with a page turning storyline and a cast of characters that added depth.
April 27, 2025
This one was a hard one
This one was a hard one for Brooke and her team. A normal guy has a psychotic break And they have a hard time finding him. Brooke makes a shocking decision about moving forward with her life. Jacob is at it again.
This one was a hard one for Brooke and her team. A normal guy has a psychotic break And they have a hard time finding him. Brooke makes a shocking decision about moving forward with her life. Jacob is at it again.
January 9, 2026
Enjoyed
This wasn't my favorite book of the series and it could use some editing. I thought the ending for the killer was interesting and the discussion with the previous victim because there are so many different ways to consider Brooks situation.
This wasn't my favorite book of the series and it could use some editing. I thought the ending for the killer was interesting and the discussion with the previous victim because there are so many different ways to consider Brooks situation.
July 23, 2023
Not up to standards.
As a police procedural it was right on the mark. What was missing was any personality for Sloane or her crew. They had no camaraderie.
As a police procedural it was right on the mark. What was missing was any personality for Sloane or her crew. They had no camaraderie.
October 5, 2023
Loved it
Another terrific book in this series. The story lines are so good and love the dynamics between the characters. Can't wait for the next one.
Another terrific book in this series. The story lines are so good and love the dynamics between the characters. Can't wait for the next one.
February 26, 2024
love these books
These book are very interesting with many twists and turns with a second story line underneath. Exiting to the very end.
These book are very interesting with many twists and turns with a second story line underneath. Exiting to the very end.
March 17, 2024
Another amazingly terrifying installment in the series. I was kept on the edge of my seat until the very end. Can't wait to start Book 9.
July 7, 2024
I’m hooked on this series. It’s hard to put down!
November 17, 2024
A page turner
This one takes you out of the office while keeping you guessing until the very last page.
Very cleverly done.
This one takes you out of the office while keeping you guessing until the very last page.
Very cleverly done.
December 21, 2024
Plausible, Set in the Smoky Mountains, fast paced, no problem following the clues, although I found the large cast of suspects made it a bit difficult.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews