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Chasing Evil: Shocking Crimes, Supernatural Forces, and an FBI Agent’s Search for Hope and Justice
How a skeptical FBI agent reached out to a famous psychic for help on a baffling case – and the twenty-five-year crime-solving journey that followed
In the summer of 1998, FBI agent Bob Hilland reluctantly picked up the phone to call the famous psychic John Edward. Bob didn’t expect much from the call, but he was working on an unsolvable cold case and had nowhere else to turn.
What Bob never imagined was that the call would lead to a shattering of all his preconceived notions, a huge break in the cold case, and an unlikely crime-solving partnership that spanned twenty-five years.
As Bob and John took on more cases together, they slowly learned how to rely on each other and trust their skills, ultimately finding not only justice for the crimes they solved, but resolution and healing in their own lives.
Centering on the investigation of the gruesome John Smith murders that rocked the nation, Chasing Evil is a heart-stopping story of murder, justice, and finding help in unexpected places.
In the summer of 1998, FBI agent Bob Hilland reluctantly picked up the phone to call the famous psychic John Edward. Bob didn’t expect much from the call, but he was working on an unsolvable cold case and had nowhere else to turn.
What Bob never imagined was that the call would lead to a shattering of all his preconceived notions, a huge break in the cold case, and an unlikely crime-solving partnership that spanned twenty-five years.
As Bob and John took on more cases together, they slowly learned how to rely on each other and trust their skills, ultimately finding not only justice for the crimes they solved, but resolution and healing in their own lives.
Centering on the investigation of the gruesome John Smith murders that rocked the nation, Chasing Evil is a heart-stopping story of murder, justice, and finding help in unexpected places.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
658 people are currently reading
10041 people want to read
About the author
Robert Hilland
3 books17 followersRobert Hilland is a former police officer and FBI Special Agent who worked in law enforcement for 30 years. He worked a number of high-profile cases including the investigation of serial killer John Smith. Bob has appeared on several television series including 20/20, Cold Case Files, and On the Case with Paula Zahn. He presently provides training to other U.S. government agencies and dedicates himself to preparing the next generation of investigators.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
July 13, 2025
Chasing Evil: Shocking Crimes, Supernatural Forces, and an FBI Agent's Search for Hope and Justice
By John Edward and Robert Holland
This was a book that tickled all my book itches! It had suspenseful and intriguing cases, a serial killer that gets away repeatedly, and a real psychic that helps on these cases for his friend, but stays anonymous. Some of the the things the psychic tells the FBI friend makes no sense at all until the agent is in the right place or time. It was really chilling how accurate he was.
I love fiction books like this but to think this is real really makes it that more spectacular. Totally enjoyed the whole book! None of it was beyond belief.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this amazing book. I shed tears for the victims but was amazed at the way some of the criminals were caught.
By John Edward and Robert Holland
This was a book that tickled all my book itches! It had suspenseful and intriguing cases, a serial killer that gets away repeatedly, and a real psychic that helps on these cases for his friend, but stays anonymous. Some of the the things the psychic tells the FBI friend makes no sense at all until the agent is in the right place or time. It was really chilling how accurate he was.
I love fiction books like this but to think this is real really makes it that more spectacular. Totally enjoyed the whole book! None of it was beyond belief.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this amazing book. I shed tears for the victims but was amazed at the way some of the criminals were caught.
June 10, 2025
3.5 stars.
It seems in so many instances the monsters we think are real are just figments of our mind. However, there are other monsters who are human and perform evil deeds that go beyond one's horror imagination.
Robert Hilland, a man well versed in criminal behaviors, being in the police, and then the FBI. Baffled by as case, he is forces to call a well known psychic, named John Edward. Bob is a non believer in psychic phenomenon, so he figured this call would be a waste of time. However, after speaking with Edward, his skepticism diminished and they formed a partnership that lasted twenty-five years.
The two men collaborated on many cases with John getting messages from the world beyond that would lead Bob to either the body or the perpetrator.
One of their famous cases was John Smith, a cunning, treacherous man who had outwitted many. Accused of murders of women, two of which were his wives, Bob and John knew he was guilty but needed to prove it. The case made headlines and eventually John Smith was caught and is serving a life sentence, thanks to the persistent skills of Bob and John.
This was a interesting look into aspects many of us find it difficult to believe. John Edward went onto become a famous psychic on TV entitled Crossing Over, while Bob retired but never gave up his quest to find those who had been murdered and lost.
It seems in so many instances the monsters we think are real are just figments of our mind. However, there are other monsters who are human and perform evil deeds that go beyond one's horror imagination.
Robert Hilland, a man well versed in criminal behaviors, being in the police, and then the FBI. Baffled by as case, he is forces to call a well known psychic, named John Edward. Bob is a non believer in psychic phenomenon, so he figured this call would be a waste of time. However, after speaking with Edward, his skepticism diminished and they formed a partnership that lasted twenty-five years.
The two men collaborated on many cases with John getting messages from the world beyond that would lead Bob to either the body or the perpetrator.
One of their famous cases was John Smith, a cunning, treacherous man who had outwitted many. Accused of murders of women, two of which were his wives, Bob and John knew he was guilty but needed to prove it. The case made headlines and eventually John Smith was caught and is serving a life sentence, thanks to the persistent skills of Bob and John.
This was a interesting look into aspects many of us find it difficult to believe. John Edward went onto become a famous psychic on TV entitled Crossing Over, while Bob retired but never gave up his quest to find those who had been murdered and lost.
October 19, 2025
There were parts I liked about this book (the investigation, detective work, learning more about psychic abilities, etc) but there were others I struggled with (some chapters, like Vick’s, felt gratuitous and only put in to boast about high profile cases). I’d recommend for fans of John E. Douglas and/or the supernatural.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
July 17, 2025
I usually stay away from non-fiction, but true crime can often draw me in. With that being said, this book is great. It moves quickly, they keep it interesting and doesn't get bogged down with details. The things that Bob Hilland and John Edward are truly amazing. If you are a skeptic of the supernatural however, this may not be the book for you.
Thank you to Net Galley and St Martin's Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and St Martin's Press for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2025
I received a free copy of, Chasing Evil, by Robert Hilland, John Edward, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I remember John Edward from his show, Crossing Over, in the early 2000's. This book is about a FBI agent who contacts John Edward about a cold case, and John Edward does provide hep on the case. This book is not for everyone, bit I found it interesting.
August 21, 2025
Special thanks to the publisher for a free, physical ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Robert Hilland is a former FBI agent, specializing in polygraph lie detection, with many high-profile murders under his belt. John Edward is the famous psychic who had a television show in the early 2000’s that contributed to his rise to notoriety. In “Chasing Evil: Shocking Crimes, Supernatural Forces, and an FBI Agent’s Search for Hope and Justice”, both worlds collide as Hilland and Edward’s chance meeting turns into a twenty-five-year-plus career of bringing “evil” to justice.
The focus of this novel, at least from Hilland’s end, is the case of serial murderer John Smith. Hilland knew that John Smith was responsible for the disappearance, and likely death, of two of his own wives but the FBI did not have enough evidence to prove it. It is this case that brings Edward to the scene, after he provides information that leads Hilland to a huge break in the case.
This story is unique as it bridges the unlikely gap between science and the supernatural, connecting crime solving with psychic visions in an intriguing way. I have only ever seen police involve psychics on television shows, and usually in an ironic way, or in situations where they are left with no other options, so it surprised me that Hilland and Edward were able to solve many cases so successfully in this way. I am a hardcore cynic when it comes to “psychic visions” and “communing with the dead”, so Edward’s portion of the story was a hard pill for me to swallow (and, to be honest, it still is), but it sure tried hard to sway me to the side of the believer.
I felt for Robert as he tried to balance his FBI life with his family life(and failed), and again when his life-long search seemed to be in vain, leading to no results, but I appreciated how these components of Robert’s life made him a human being who readers could easily connect and sympathize with. Robert is on the side of “Good”, in the battle of Good vs. Evil, so it is easy to root for him.
The chapters are broken up into smaller sections, making the book easily digestible but of course, the subject matter eliminates it from being an “easy read”. I followed along on Robert’s elusive “John Smith” case, and hoped for justice almost as much as Robert himself, did.
I will never be a believer in the psychic world, but I’m absolutely addicted to real-life FBI case studies, and “Chasing Evil” was deliciously entertaining on that front. “Evil” is perfect for fans of “Mindhunter”, who don’t mind a little psychic flair on the side.
Robert Hilland is a former FBI agent, specializing in polygraph lie detection, with many high-profile murders under his belt. John Edward is the famous psychic who had a television show in the early 2000’s that contributed to his rise to notoriety. In “Chasing Evil: Shocking Crimes, Supernatural Forces, and an FBI Agent’s Search for Hope and Justice”, both worlds collide as Hilland and Edward’s chance meeting turns into a twenty-five-year-plus career of bringing “evil” to justice.
The focus of this novel, at least from Hilland’s end, is the case of serial murderer John Smith. Hilland knew that John Smith was responsible for the disappearance, and likely death, of two of his own wives but the FBI did not have enough evidence to prove it. It is this case that brings Edward to the scene, after he provides information that leads Hilland to a huge break in the case.
This story is unique as it bridges the unlikely gap between science and the supernatural, connecting crime solving with psychic visions in an intriguing way. I have only ever seen police involve psychics on television shows, and usually in an ironic way, or in situations where they are left with no other options, so it surprised me that Hilland and Edward were able to solve many cases so successfully in this way. I am a hardcore cynic when it comes to “psychic visions” and “communing with the dead”, so Edward’s portion of the story was a hard pill for me to swallow (and, to be honest, it still is), but it sure tried hard to sway me to the side of the believer.
I felt for Robert as he tried to balance his FBI life with his family life(and failed), and again when his life-long search seemed to be in vain, leading to no results, but I appreciated how these components of Robert’s life made him a human being who readers could easily connect and sympathize with. Robert is on the side of “Good”, in the battle of Good vs. Evil, so it is easy to root for him.
The chapters are broken up into smaller sections, making the book easily digestible but of course, the subject matter eliminates it from being an “easy read”. I followed along on Robert’s elusive “John Smith” case, and hoped for justice almost as much as Robert himself, did.
I will never be a believer in the psychic world, but I’m absolutely addicted to real-life FBI case studies, and “Chasing Evil” was deliciously entertaining on that front. “Evil” is perfect for fans of “Mindhunter”, who don’t mind a little psychic flair on the side.
August 24, 2025
Bob Hilland is a retired FBI agent who used Psychic John Edward’s help to solve cases for 25 years. One such case is the famous John Smith case.
This was an interesting story that had me glued to the pages.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins Press for letting me read this great ARC that will be released September 2, 2025.
This was an interesting story that had me glued to the pages.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins Press for letting me read this great ARC that will be released September 2, 2025.
June 11, 2025
Welcome to Chasing Evil, where the FBI teams up with a psychic and things go from “okay, maybe” to “wait, what now?” faster than you can say, “Did he really call Afghan birds skunks with wings?” Yes. Yes, he did.
This book starts like a true crime procedural but ends up feeling like the author’s midlife crisis was ghostwritten by a spirit guide. Picture a stoic FBI agent who slowly becomes a believer—not just in the afterlife, but in dragging every single global tragedy into one book. You came for cold cases, but oh no, you’re also getting a crash course in 9/11, dog fighting rings, Guyana, Afghanistan, polygraphs, failed marriages, and miscellaneous brooding.
Let’s talk psychic John Edward. The man’s got more spirit tea than your grandma’s séance circle, but the vibes range from “helpful ghost whisperer” to “how convenient this message from the beyond solves everything!” It’s giving The Sixth Sense, but sponsored by Wikipedia and your conspiracy uncle.
Also, if you’re hoping for cultural sensitivity or historical accuracy? Buckle up, babe. What could’ve been a deep, gripping journey veers into White-savior land, takes a hard left at Unverified History Boulevard, and crashes into “Is this still about the murder?” Alley.
To be fair, the pacing is snappy and the first half? Genuinely gripping. I was hooked like a medium on a live call-in show. But the second half? It’s like the author realized he had a lot of important things to say—and none of them involved finishing the story we started with. The result is a cluttered, chaotic stew of personal anecdotes, crime scenes, and spiritual breadcrumbs.
Triggers:
• Racism/xenophobic language
• Animal abuse (dog fighting mention)
• Violent crime and murder
• War references
• Cultural insensitivity
• 9/11 trauma
• Domestic issues (failed marriage)
Spice Level:
Zero. Unless you count unresolved spiritual tension and passive-aggressive references to global conflict.
Rating:
⭐️⭐️½ (2.5 out of 5 stars)
One star for the premise, half a star for ambition, one star for the ghostly sass.
Mood: Twisty, intense, but unintentionally chaotic
Pacing: Fast-paced in the beginning, derailed in the second act
Final Thought:
Think Criminal Minds meets Ghost Adventures… if the script was written during a Red Bull-fueled TED Talk on everything except the main plot.
This book starts like a true crime procedural but ends up feeling like the author’s midlife crisis was ghostwritten by a spirit guide. Picture a stoic FBI agent who slowly becomes a believer—not just in the afterlife, but in dragging every single global tragedy into one book. You came for cold cases, but oh no, you’re also getting a crash course in 9/11, dog fighting rings, Guyana, Afghanistan, polygraphs, failed marriages, and miscellaneous brooding.
Let’s talk psychic John Edward. The man’s got more spirit tea than your grandma’s séance circle, but the vibes range from “helpful ghost whisperer” to “how convenient this message from the beyond solves everything!” It’s giving The Sixth Sense, but sponsored by Wikipedia and your conspiracy uncle.
Also, if you’re hoping for cultural sensitivity or historical accuracy? Buckle up, babe. What could’ve been a deep, gripping journey veers into White-savior land, takes a hard left at Unverified History Boulevard, and crashes into “Is this still about the murder?” Alley.
To be fair, the pacing is snappy and the first half? Genuinely gripping. I was hooked like a medium on a live call-in show. But the second half? It’s like the author realized he had a lot of important things to say—and none of them involved finishing the story we started with. The result is a cluttered, chaotic stew of personal anecdotes, crime scenes, and spiritual breadcrumbs.
Triggers:
• Racism/xenophobic language
• Animal abuse (dog fighting mention)
• Violent crime and murder
• War references
• Cultural insensitivity
• 9/11 trauma
• Domestic issues (failed marriage)
Spice Level:
Zero. Unless you count unresolved spiritual tension and passive-aggressive references to global conflict.
Rating:
⭐️⭐️½ (2.5 out of 5 stars)
One star for the premise, half a star for ambition, one star for the ghostly sass.
Mood: Twisty, intense, but unintentionally chaotic
Pacing: Fast-paced in the beginning, derailed in the second act
Final Thought:
Think Criminal Minds meets Ghost Adventures… if the script was written during a Red Bull-fueled TED Talk on everything except the main plot.
May 18, 2025
5 stars. This book read like a movie to me. This was a real life cat and mouse chase, the battle between good and evil. I’ve hardly been able to put it down.
The author, an ex FBI agent from NYC, takes you through the cases he worked on, as well as ‘the case’ of his career, the one he couldn’t shake. The incredible spiritual guidance he had behind the scenes was fascinating. What a story. I finished the book and sat in silence for a moment, just to gather my thoughts.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to review this arc. I wish the author every success with this incredible book.
The author, an ex FBI agent from NYC, takes you through the cases he worked on, as well as ‘the case’ of his career, the one he couldn’t shake. The incredible spiritual guidance he had behind the scenes was fascinating. What a story. I finished the book and sat in silence for a moment, just to gather my thoughts.
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to review this arc. I wish the author every success with this incredible book.
August 25, 2025
⭐⭐⭐
Pre-Read Notes:
I like true crime books and I expect to like this one. The author is a small town detective whose work with medium informants have proven fruitful. That's not usually my sort of fare unless I'm reading *fiction*, but I really like how this story is being narrated. "Here's a medium," he asserts, but does not try to convince me on the off-chance I'm a skeptic. Which I am. But I respect integrity lol.
Final Review
(thoughts & recs) I merely liked this one, as it's not about what I thought, really. I was mostly there for that first case about Smith. However, at about 200 pages, the writers leaves off that case without really resolving it for us. The last 150 pages of the book are about his psychic informant, his own supposed developing psychic skill, and unrelated cases. I think the last 150 pages should be cut and the first case given a stronger ending. I would have loved it then!
I recommend this to fans of true crime and supernatural overlap and psychic detectives.
My Favorite Things:
✔️ "I wanted to help these women. Louise was alive, and maybe it was because that do-gooder manager at the photo studio stuck her poster in the window. She might have been his next victim. And what about this Diane he was about to marry? I had to get this guy." p90 He writes this immediately after denying that he sees himself as a hero, butttttt he sort of does. Or at least he wrote the book as though he thought he was. No judgement. A hero's quest is a hero's quest.
✔️ This is a riveting case. I'm about halfway through and I'm hooked.
✔️ The whole psychic aspect of this case is fun...until I remember I'm reading nonfiction and then it's meh. Supposedly this psychic predicted 9-11 but I mean...what good did that do if so?
Notes:
1. content notes - police, criminal justice system, DV, psychics, interrogation, polygraphs, police procedures, animal cruelty, animal death, murder, serial killer
Thank you to the author John Edward and ghostwriter Robert Hilland, St. Martin's Essentials, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of CHASING EVIL. All views are mine.
Pre-Read Notes:
I like true crime books and I expect to like this one. The author is a small town detective whose work with medium informants have proven fruitful. That's not usually my sort of fare unless I'm reading *fiction*, but I really like how this story is being narrated. "Here's a medium," he asserts, but does not try to convince me on the off-chance I'm a skeptic. Which I am. But I respect integrity lol.
Final Review
(thoughts & recs) I merely liked this one, as it's not about what I thought, really. I was mostly there for that first case about Smith. However, at about 200 pages, the writers leaves off that case without really resolving it for us. The last 150 pages of the book are about his psychic informant, his own supposed developing psychic skill, and unrelated cases. I think the last 150 pages should be cut and the first case given a stronger ending. I would have loved it then!
I recommend this to fans of true crime and supernatural overlap and psychic detectives.
My Favorite Things:
✔️ "I wanted to help these women. Louise was alive, and maybe it was because that do-gooder manager at the photo studio stuck her poster in the window. She might have been his next victim. And what about this Diane he was about to marry? I had to get this guy." p90 He writes this immediately after denying that he sees himself as a hero, butttttt he sort of does. Or at least he wrote the book as though he thought he was. No judgement. A hero's quest is a hero's quest.
✔️ This is a riveting case. I'm about halfway through and I'm hooked.
✔️ The whole psychic aspect of this case is fun...until I remember I'm reading nonfiction and then it's meh. Supposedly this psychic predicted 9-11 but I mean...what good did that do if so?
Notes:
1. content notes - police, criminal justice system, DV, psychics, interrogation, polygraphs, police procedures, animal cruelty, animal death, murder, serial killer
Thank you to the author John Edward and ghostwriter Robert Hilland, St. Martin's Essentials, and NetGalley for an accessible digital arc of CHASING EVIL. All views are mine.
April 12, 2025
“Chasing Evil” is a captivating true crime story based on cases from Robert Hilland’s FBI career and his collaboration with psychic John Edward. In the beginning, Hilland was a skeptic and felt that psychics were frauds. But as the two worked together on cases, they forged a professional on personal bond. As most true crime stories, the subject matter can be dark, but this book was fast-paced and kept my attention from start to finish. No matter whether you are a believer or a skeptic, “Chasing Evil” is a must-read for true crime lovers.
June 9, 2025
I was super appreciative to get an ARC of this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. The book read as fiction and it was hard to put down. John Edwards and his show crossing over with John Edwards played a crucial role while I was dealing with grief after my father passed away. I save the five star reviews for incredible literary works that stay with me for a while. While this book is non fiction and lacking a bit on the literary art category, I know the impact of this book will stay with me. I hope this duo continue their friendship and I look forward to future books from them.
October 22, 2025
Hmm! The jury is out on psychic phenomenon, but there's no doubt this is an entertaining read. Seriously though, I'm mildly concerned about how reliant FBI SA Robert Hilland became on psychic information for seemingly mundane, straightforward cases. Makes me wonder if John Edward billed The Man by the hour.
September 2, 2025
I’ll be honest, when I read a summary of Chasing Evil and how the story was going to involve the topic of psychic powers, I was put off and not really interested.
One day the book arrived in the mail and I was surprised I was chosen to receive an early copy. I decided to give the story a chance…I was immediately captivated by the story and could not put it down. I finished it in one day!!! I can’t tell you how long it has been since I finished a book in a day!
A riveting part memoir and true crime book was an easy read for me. I felt all the emotions as I plowed through the novel. This book is more than fighting crime and seeking justice but also about how we all have a purpose in our lifetime and everyone’s journey looks different. If you enjoy true crime, this book is for you! I highly recommend.
Thank you for your service Robert Hilland!
I received a complimentary advanced physical copy from publisher St. Martin’s Press. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book.
One day the book arrived in the mail and I was surprised I was chosen to receive an early copy. I decided to give the story a chance…I was immediately captivated by the story and could not put it down. I finished it in one day!!! I can’t tell you how long it has been since I finished a book in a day!
A riveting part memoir and true crime book was an easy read for me. I felt all the emotions as I plowed through the novel. This book is more than fighting crime and seeking justice but also about how we all have a purpose in our lifetime and everyone’s journey looks different. If you enjoy true crime, this book is for you! I highly recommend.
Thank you for your service Robert Hilland!
I received a complimentary advanced physical copy from publisher St. Martin’s Press. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book.
June 28, 2025
I could not put this book down.
The cases, written with such clarity and detail, are fascinating on their own. But Bob provides so much more to each of these cases, these stories, these victims. Honestly, he gives victims an opportunity to have their stories, otherwise forgotten, told.
Then the added layer of his work with John Edward takes every case to the next level with so many connections between people and cases. I was truly enthralled by their dynamic and teamwork.
This is a book that has left a lasting impression on me, for sure. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in true crime stories and to anyone who, like me, questions the possibility of spirits and a higher power. I'm a true skeptic and the has definitely given me pause and much to consider.
The cases, written with such clarity and detail, are fascinating on their own. But Bob provides so much more to each of these cases, these stories, these victims. Honestly, he gives victims an opportunity to have their stories, otherwise forgotten, told.
Then the added layer of his work with John Edward takes every case to the next level with so many connections between people and cases. I was truly enthralled by their dynamic and teamwork.
This is a book that has left a lasting impression on me, for sure. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in true crime stories and to anyone who, like me, questions the possibility of spirits and a higher power. I'm a true skeptic and the has definitely given me pause and much to consider.
August 27, 2025
2.5 stars. This book was all over the place.
I don’t think Hilland is a bad writer - I actually really enjoyed the setup at the beginning where it was set up to introduce the key players at each stop of the investigation. And it was interesting to read about how he grew to trust his intuition.
But then it completely changes into something else. There are chapters wholly unrelated to the Smith case. Which would’ve been fine except that’s definitely not how it was marketed or described. I personally hate when nonfiction books end on a cliffhanger with unsolved crimes, but I disliked the ending here because the ending was so anticlimactic!
Overall I think the structure could’ve benefited from some adjusted juxtaposition.
Thank you to NetGalley, Robert Hilland & John Edward, and St. Martin’s Essentials for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I don’t think Hilland is a bad writer - I actually really enjoyed the setup at the beginning where it was set up to introduce the key players at each stop of the investigation. And it was interesting to read about how he grew to trust his intuition.
But then it completely changes into something else. There are chapters wholly unrelated to the Smith case. Which would’ve been fine except that’s definitely not how it was marketed or described. I personally hate when nonfiction books end on a cliffhanger with unsolved crimes, but I disliked the ending here because the ending was so anticlimactic!
Overall I think the structure could’ve benefited from some adjusted juxtaposition.
Thank you to NetGalley, Robert Hilland & John Edward, and St. Martin’s Essentials for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2025
Having been through similar experiences to Bob during my time in the force, this book resonated a lot with me but on a more personal level.
Then throw in John Edwards and you can't help but wonder is there more out there?
Even for the most heightened sceptic, this book and the stories within can't be denied that something is bigger than us out there and we all serve a purpose in this big wide world of ours.
If you like true crime and you have an open mind, this will blow your socks off.
Then throw in John Edwards and you can't help but wonder is there more out there?
Even for the most heightened sceptic, this book and the stories within can't be denied that something is bigger than us out there and we all serve a purpose in this big wide world of ours.
If you like true crime and you have an open mind, this will blow your socks off.
August 31, 2025
Chasing Evil follows investigators tackling cold case crimes, initially drawing readers in with a gripping premise and engaging storytelling. The book promises a deep dive into solving mysteries but takes an unexpected turn, heavily leaning on tarot, psychics, and supernatural elements to crack cases.
While the start was compelling, the reliance on "beyond the grave" methods felt outrageous and unbelievable, detracting from the credibility of the investigations. I would have preferred a focus on forensics and sharp investigative skills, as the supernatural angle went too far over the top, making the resolutions feel unconvincing and far-fetched. One star.
I was invited to read a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
While the start was compelling, the reliance on "beyond the grave" methods felt outrageous and unbelievable, detracting from the credibility of the investigations. I would have preferred a focus on forensics and sharp investigative skills, as the supernatural angle went too far over the top, making the resolutions feel unconvincing and far-fetched. One star.
I was invited to read a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 19, 2025
My two favorite worlds collided in this book: true crime and talking to the dead! Amazing and sad stories. Good and evil collide. A must read if these topics interest you.
March 30, 2025
TL;DR: A fascinating chronicle of an FBI agent and a psychic working together.
Source: NetGalley, thank you so much to the publisher!
Plot: This was pretty well paced, though I think they reached a bit fill in the end.
Characters: Interesting! They felt fairly well represented with what we got.
Readability: This one is an easy read, everything is approachable if heavy.
Thoughts:
I’m not entirely sure where I swing on the topic of psychics, but I find reading about them fascinating. In Chasing Evil we do just that, following an FBI agent who ends up asking for a receiving quite a bit of help from a popular, well known psychic to solve cases. The primary case is one of a man who is linked to the disappearance of several women, including two wives. Robert Hilland and John Edwards work together to try and find and put the man away.
The second half of this, starting with his story of his 911 experience is a good indicator of the story loosing a little bit of the tension and tightness that carried it through. While the book continued to be engaging and fascinating, we lost a lot of the meat of the story where the case of John Smith fizzled out. That’s really my only complaint, and it’s a weak one I’ll happily admit.
The topics touched on are heavy. We have violence against women, missing and deceased children, an on site 911 experience with details of that event, etc. It’s a lot to take in. But it’s pacey, it’s fast and it will keep you reading. I enjoyed it, and for fans of true crime I think it’ll be a fun read.
Source: NetGalley, thank you so much to the publisher!
Plot: This was pretty well paced, though I think they reached a bit fill in the end.
Characters: Interesting! They felt fairly well represented with what we got.
Readability: This one is an easy read, everything is approachable if heavy.
Thoughts:
I’m not entirely sure where I swing on the topic of psychics, but I find reading about them fascinating. In Chasing Evil we do just that, following an FBI agent who ends up asking for a receiving quite a bit of help from a popular, well known psychic to solve cases. The primary case is one of a man who is linked to the disappearance of several women, including two wives. Robert Hilland and John Edwards work together to try and find and put the man away.
The second half of this, starting with his story of his 911 experience is a good indicator of the story loosing a little bit of the tension and tightness that carried it through. While the book continued to be engaging and fascinating, we lost a lot of the meat of the story where the case of John Smith fizzled out. That’s really my only complaint, and it’s a weak one I’ll happily admit.
The topics touched on are heavy. We have violence against women, missing and deceased children, an on site 911 experience with details of that event, etc. It’s a lot to take in. But it’s pacey, it’s fast and it will keep you reading. I enjoyed it, and for fans of true crime I think it’ll be a fun read.
September 27, 2025
Fascinating book - helps validate the value of psychics
August 25, 2025
This was one of the best true crime books I’ve read. Bob Hilland is the type of law enforcement officer that every case deserves. He really put his heart and soul into these cases, and opened up his mind to accept the supernatural assistance in order to make that happen. I have great respect for both him and John Edward. I was familiar with John Edward’s name before this book, but had never seen a show or read a book by him. Definitely a fascinating gift he shares. There are some heartbreaking stories described in this book, not the least is Bob’s experiences during 9/11. Excellent book and I very much appreciate the advance copy from the authors and St Martins Press.
September 6, 2025
I didn’t think I could admire John Edward more, but I do. Bob Hilland now makes my admiration list.
June 29, 2025
As John Edward would say, "Cool."
I've been a fan of John's for decades, and now I'm a fan of Bob.
While the book is about the Smith murders in that that story is the beginning of his relationship with John and it weaves throughout, it reads more like a memoir --Bob ties in cases and experiences where he relied on John Edward for a team assist from the other side. Bob is taking you on the journey through his career that highlights a major lesson he needed (still needs?) to learn in his life about balance. One that likely speaks to many of us. His personal relationships suffer from his drive to solve that ONE case and his other justice crusades.
It was a very enjoyable page turner.
I've noticed a couple books recently where younger reviewers have issues with the way a story was told --finding it not what THEY wanted to read, not politically correct, and a number of other complaints. So they don't finish the book and/or give it a low rating. It strikes me that somewhere along the way we've lost the art of communication --of sitting back and listening to someone tell their story. As if a story isn't good enough unless it's 100% politically correct and fits into their box of what is acceptable. Life isn't like that. Humans are not perfect and always PC.
And it's dangerous for society to close off to the stories you don't like. To narrow your view. And that's the end of my preaching for today.
I got an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Thank you to the publisher for that!!
This is my honest review. I enjoy reading true crime and books about the 'paranormal' so this was definitely and 'you got your chocolate in my peanut butter' genre for me! :)
I've been a fan of John's for decades, and now I'm a fan of Bob.
While the book is about the Smith murders in that that story is the beginning of his relationship with John and it weaves throughout, it reads more like a memoir --Bob ties in cases and experiences where he relied on John Edward for a team assist from the other side. Bob is taking you on the journey through his career that highlights a major lesson he needed (still needs?) to learn in his life about balance. One that likely speaks to many of us. His personal relationships suffer from his drive to solve that ONE case and his other justice crusades.
It was a very enjoyable page turner.
I've noticed a couple books recently where younger reviewers have issues with the way a story was told --finding it not what THEY wanted to read, not politically correct, and a number of other complaints. So they don't finish the book and/or give it a low rating. It strikes me that somewhere along the way we've lost the art of communication --of sitting back and listening to someone tell their story. As if a story isn't good enough unless it's 100% politically correct and fits into their box of what is acceptable. Life isn't like that. Humans are not perfect and always PC.
And it's dangerous for society to close off to the stories you don't like. To narrow your view. And that's the end of my preaching for today.
I got an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Thank you to the publisher for that!!
This is my honest review. I enjoy reading true crime and books about the 'paranormal' so this was definitely and 'you got your chocolate in my peanut butter' genre for me! :)
October 19, 2025
I can’t remember the last time that I read a book that had me this hooked from the beginning, where the pages turned so effortlessly, where you regret the moment it will end. Because. It’s. That. Amazing. This is clearly the best book I’ve read this year aside from the Stephen King autobiography that I got that actually made me feel like I could be a writer. I only wish I could now become a person that works with these two heroes to solve crimes too! We can only hope that the dynamic duo of John Edwards and Robert Hilland will listen to all of our pleas to give us more. For true crime fans, or for anyone who just likes an incredible read, this one needs to be on your shelf.
August 2, 2025
This was so interesting and informative, if you're a skeptic or not, it draws you in and will leave you with goosebumps in many of the stories. Each and every one of these cases hit hard. I would have liked to have seen better transitions between stories, as we just kinda jump from one to the next, but for as real as it's written I can slightly look past that.
Just as an FYI there is a section about 9/11 that has some harsh, real, visuals. My heart aches every time I see anything with 9/11 so just prepare yourself if you're like me otherwise you may also randomly cry in the middle of work while reading.
Thank you to St. Martin's Essentials, St. Martin's Early Readers and Netgalley for access to an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Just as an FYI there is a section about 9/11 that has some harsh, real, visuals. My heart aches every time I see anything with 9/11 so just prepare yourself if you're like me otherwise you may also randomly cry in the middle of work while reading.
Thank you to St. Martin's Essentials, St. Martin's Early Readers and Netgalley for access to an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2025
I love true crime and John Edward's. So I jumped into this book excited. And I wasn't disappointed. I wasn't sure how the back abd forth would go but it was very interesting hearing about the cases and how spirit lives helped solve them. Not everyone believes.. I'm a believer.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book
Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book
September 20, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up. Well I’m still a skeptic as far as psychic powers go but this book was fascinating simply in the details provided on the John Smith case among others. The dedication of FBI agent Hilland was readily apparent and inspiring. I have no alternative hypotheses as to why clues provided by psychic John Edwards were so valuable in some of these cases but as discussed in the book, not all mysteries are solved.
November 14, 2025
Fascinating. Two nights. Done.
If you are a believer in the paranormal you will enjoy this book as I did. If not, then perhaps as you turn the pages, allow an open mind to guide you.
There are cases here of great notoriety. Others are not.
Hilland and Edward move in a diverse reality of constant motion and change. It’s 24/7 with no off switch. They share with us how they meet. Their developing friendship. The deep trust and respect each carries for the other as men and professionals. Born from this is the dedicated unrelenting perseverance to solve the crime, to bring to justice those who step outside societies laws. And to come to terms with the times the answers remain elusive at 3 a.m. or just can’t be found.
The writing is straight forward, flows smoothly, moves at a satisfying pace. There is the opening of "just the facts please ma'am" mindset and style of thinking to a more natural order of the world in which we live. Not to be feared but from which to learn and grow.
“After so many years on the job, I still wasn’t sure how to come to terms with the horrors humans do.”. Page 302, Robert Hilland.
In all things there is duality. Another side for our choosing. Sometimes referred to as free will. I like the opportunity to choose again. To be better. A trait inherent in all man.
If you are a believer in the paranormal you will enjoy this book as I did. If not, then perhaps as you turn the pages, allow an open mind to guide you.
There are cases here of great notoriety. Others are not.
Hilland and Edward move in a diverse reality of constant motion and change. It’s 24/7 with no off switch. They share with us how they meet. Their developing friendship. The deep trust and respect each carries for the other as men and professionals. Born from this is the dedicated unrelenting perseverance to solve the crime, to bring to justice those who step outside societies laws. And to come to terms with the times the answers remain elusive at 3 a.m. or just can’t be found.
The writing is straight forward, flows smoothly, moves at a satisfying pace. There is the opening of "just the facts please ma'am" mindset and style of thinking to a more natural order of the world in which we live. Not to be feared but from which to learn and grow.
“After so many years on the job, I still wasn’t sure how to come to terms with the horrors humans do.”. Page 302, Robert Hilland.
In all things there is duality. Another side for our choosing. Sometimes referred to as free will. I like the opportunity to choose again. To be better. A trait inherent in all man.
October 6, 2025
What a fascinating story! While I am not religious, I do believe there are things beyond my ability to explain and this story was awesome in that way. I love how the detective was willing to be open to new things, and that the other guy actually seemed legit unlike so many others.
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