Elusive Evil

by JJ Samie Myles

Sometimes evil is so close you can’t see it.

Former NZSAS corporal Nik “Nikyboy” Te Koha is on vacation with his Task Force SEAR buddies in Indonesia when a suicide bomber targets a church. Triage efforts quickly morph into a full-blown mission, bringing Nik’s old demons knocking.

Terror has haunted Rina Soto from childhood, killing her family and fueling her passion to join Delta 77, a counter-terrorism unit. Convinced the recent attack wasn't a one-off, she sets out to hunt down the bombers with the help of an enigmatic Kiwi and his highly skilled team.

Opposites attract; fighting the same enemy unites. Nik and Rina put their lives on the line to prevent more carnage, but another threat looms much closer. Can Rina's unwavering faith pierce Nik's darkness?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 19, 2025

About the author

JJ Samie Myles is always on the hunt for a thrilling adventure, be it in real life or the fictional realm. Having traveled the globe and interacted with people from all walks of life, she is equipped with an arsenal of story ideas. Her mission is to share the beauty of God’s light in a dark world and encourage her readers in their faith. JJ is fluent in savage banter, obsessed with the ocean, and loves to laugh.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author has a wonderful ability to pull at my heartstrings while increasing my heart rate and engaging me in a story filled with love, sacrifice, and bravery. She knows exactly how to merge her two worlds and hold my attention in the thrill of the combat zone as equally well as she holds it in the brief tender moments of love amid chaos.

This time her characters face their tumultuous past, suicide bombers, race to protect an orphanage and bring down an ‘elusive evil’. As with book one, the Task Force SEAR (Special Extraction and Attack Response) features and requires the aid of Delta 77, an elite anti-terrorism unit based in Lombok, an Indonesian island.

I enjoyed getting to meet Rina ‘Pit Bull’ Soto and appreciated her encouraging messages reminding us to keep our focus where it needs to be, the importance of praying for ourselves, and of availing ourselves of God’s armour. Both Rina and Nikora Te Koha are masterfully crafted characters and Myles knows how to make them shine.

I’m looking forward to Ledger’s story in book 3.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Wow. Wow. As always, JJ has crafted a hauntingly beautiful, real story that would touch the soul of any believer.

I loved this book. But as with Book One of this series...I was also properly horrified. It hurts my heart to read stories like that, knowing that this kind of persecution does happen in our world today. But JJ's books also give me hope because I know there are also brave men and women like our SEAR team who are on the battle grounds, fighting to protect those in harm's way.

Nik and Rina are two incredible warriors. I loved both of their determination and thirst for justice. Most of all, their faith was inspiring. Even in their weakness, the way they both leaned on and trusted God with everything was truly awe-inspiring to read. The two of them compliment each other so well and I loved that they were also an escape for each other. A reminder of the good God has given us too.

I also loved getting to know the rest of the SEAR team better in this book too. And I really hope that Madden, Ledger and Ariel will be getting their own books too!

[Steffani Webb]

Another POWERFUL and explosive story by JJ Samie Myles. Intense action throughout and I love how raw and relatable the characters are. Nik’s journey was especially poignant. So much redemption in this story. Now I can’t wait for book 3!!

[Andrea Anderson-Bain · Rating 5 out of 5]

My ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

JJ Samie Myles has done it again! There’s a reason she’s one of my absolute favorite authors and someone I’ll always recommend. Elusive Evil is another beautiful reminder of why her stories stay with me long after I finish them.

I fell in love with these characters in Crimson Sands, and stepping back into their world felt like reconnecting with old friends. They have wound their way into my heart — and they’re not leaving. 🫶

This book takes us deeper into Nik and Rina’s journey, raising the emotional stakes in the best ways. Their strength, devotion, protectiveness, and the way they anchor each other often reminded me so much of Kris and myself. The similarities between Nik and Kris especially warmed my heart and made this story even more personal and redemptive for me. 🥹❤️

Myles blends action, heart, and faith so seamlessly. I loved the way Nik wrestles with his past while Rina holds tight to the faith that’s carried her through her own heartbreak. Rina’s trust in God becomes such a gentle, steady light in Nik’s darkest moments, and those scenes were some of my favorites. They spoke to me in a way that felt deeply real.

This story doesn’t shy away from the heaviness of terrorism, and some scenes were genuinely tough for me to read. But they were written with honesty and respect — showing the reality without exploiting it. And just when the weight feels heavy, Myles’ signature humor breaks through with perfect timing. I laughed out loud more than once, which I truly appreciated.

Overall, Elusive Evil is everything I love in romantic suspense: high stakes, emotional depth, and a meaningful, hope-filled faith thread. It’s powerful, heartfelt, and absolutely unforgettable. A solid 5-star read, and one I’ll be recommending to anyone who loves suspense grounded in redemption, resilience, and real love. 🤍

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

these two were fire and ice. I lived the dynamic and the way they learned to trust each other. great second book in the series.

[Alissa Peppo (bookstagrambyalissamorgan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elusive Evil is the action packed and faith-filled second installment of JJ Samie Myles’ Task Force SEAR series, and I loved it! Honestly, the first book Crimson Sands really made me fall in love with Christian romantic suspense, and I thought that it would be a hard act to follow because it was SO INCREDIBLE! However, Elusive Evil did not disappoint— and it exceeded all expectations! With a protective and relentless hero and strong faith-filled heroine, the romance will have you swooning, but it is just one part of this multi-layered book/work of art. The action is absolutely non-stop, and you keep turning page after page— I read it in one sitting! One of the best parts, however, is how this story shines a light on the very real spiritual battles that are happening all around us, and the persecution that Christians face around the world. JJ Samie Myles continues to deliver five star action packed reads with great romance and strong spiritual themes, and I am SO EXCITED to see what she writes next!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes, and my thoughts are my own. I really did love it!

[MyWeekendIsBooked7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

JJ Samie Myles certainly knows how to hook a reader in the story. Nik and Rina team up to stop an elusive terrorist that seems to know a little too much about them. Spiritual warfare is a big topic in this book and should certainly be talked about more! If you're love military fiction, romantic suspense, bold Christian fiction, and amazing characters, PICK THIS BOOK UP! You'll love it!

I received an ARC copy from the author. All opinions presented are my own.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the TASK FORCE SEAR series by JJ Samie Myles. As with every single book she writes under both pen name, she does an exceptional job. I love how JJ weaves faith in the story with so much suspense and emotion. There is a lot going on in this second book about spiritual warfare and the evil we face in this world. But God’s strength is woven in the middle of it all. We as humans face such darkness at times but with the help and work of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome that darkness with His light. This team of TASK FORCE guys/girls they are like family and fight for each other and those who can’t fight for themselves. They fight against evil and the persecution of Christians.

10 ⭐️ stars worthy again!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book started out with bang. Nikyboy and Rina are fighting physically and spiritually battles. This book is absolutely amazing. JJ has done such a wonderful job again. The chemistry between Nikyboy and Rina is incredible. This book will keep you up way too late waiting to find out what happens next. The team banter is the best. You will laugh and cry. The way JJ talks about God and his love is always so special and inspiring

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elusive Evil is another spellbinding book from JJ Samie Myles. Suspensefilled, fast paced and mind-blowing, this book kept me hooked from the beginning. Nikyboy and Raina together with the whole crew of Sear Force are determined to stop the spreading terror that paralyses the christian community. The connection between Raina and Nikyboy from the beginning is strong, two intense characters focused on their goals, their facade a cover for deep hurt and trauma. As both work side by side, they open up to each other. They both helped each other, strengthening each other's weakness. I love the way Raina helped Nikyboy to open up his heart to God, encouraging him to let go of his fears and reassuring him that his past didn't mean his life should be filled with torture and loneliness, helping him to understand and see that God's love was greater than all other and allowing God to take control chased the darkness within away. Haunted by his past and his emotions, Nikyboy was afraid to let anyone in but with Raina's help, he came to terms with his grief and came to enjoy the fullness of true friendship and brotherhood that existed among the Sear Force.
The whole Sear Force team is truly a family. I enjoyed meeting Keith and Dakota again, Ledger, Ariel and Mad are a whole vibe. The support of Raina's Uncle and their team made it possible to track down and stop the terror that threatened the existence of many.
Elusive evil is a reminder of the subtle evil nature of Satan in daily life's activities, creeping into the mind, terrorizing and stealing joy. Nikyboy won the battle of the mind; Raina learnt to open her heart to love and the growth of other characters is heartwarming. I look forward to Ledger's story as well as the other members of Sear Force in subsequent books. An amazing read all through.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author JJ Samie Myles snagged my attention with the non-stop action, all within the first chapter of Elusive Evil. Nikora Te Koha, also known as "Nickyboy", had lost so much and felt as if he had also lost his connection to God. He thought that spending time in Lombok, relaxing, was inviting danger and terror in. Yet, Task Force SEAR was filled with believers fighting to combat the oppression of Christianity all over the world.

Nik and Rina Soto worked together to end the threat of Komandan, a terrorist who had claimed attacks for the past ten years. Throughout this story, several images of evil running unchecked was met with an onslaught of prayers overcoming that powerful and determined evil with a lot of faith, prayer and hope. Plus, a lot of dedication given to the cause was sprouting hope in normalcy's return.

Elusive Evil was an appropriately named book, written by an Author whose faith in our Creator is strong and true. My thoughts regarding my Christian faith were forced to consider the Truth of His Word, my commitment to my beliefs, and my willingness to serve (or believe) as characters within this book did. I give this book 5 stars out of 5 stars because the words written, and the story within, opened my heart and mind to the life Jesus has called us to live. JJ Samie Myles has the method of reaching the reader and unveiling the truth within.

[It's Sunrise Again · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elusive Evil is a fantastic Christian romantic suspense novel. If you haven't read the first book in the Task Force SEAR series, I recommend reading it first, as Elusive Evil picks up where Crimson Sands, the previous book, leaves off.

The faith element that JJ has brilliantly woven into the action and suspense is quite different from the typical Christian Fiction storyline. With a focus on Spiritual Warfare, it melds into the storyline and its intensity perfectly.

I really enjoyed reading Elusive Evil, and I really appreciate that it's set in Indonesia and the uniqueness of that. I thought the setup for Ledger's story was awesome, and I cannot wait to read Death Wish, the next book in this series.

If you enjoy Christian romantic suspense, with non-stop action, high octane suspense, and a thrilling adventure, then I highly recommend Elusive Evil.

I received a complimentary copy from the author, but I wasn't required to leave a review. This does not impact my thoughts or opinions on this novel.

[ChriseBee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I needed this book so much. It was eye-opening, encouraging, and challenging for my faith journey. Full RTC.Wow, I needed this book. Elusive Evil was eye-opening, encouraging, and challenging for my faith journey. I couldn't have read a better book to start 2026. I was sent an ARC of book 2, which focused on terrorist attacks against Christians and spiritual warfare. There was nothing preachy about this story - just realistic people and heartbreaking situations portrayed with a message of hope through faith in God.

Nik and Rina were likeable characters from the start as individuals and romantic interests. I loved that they prayed together and with the wider team and encouraged each other with Bible verses. They challenged each other to dig deeper into their faith despite the shadows of their past and present.

I also loved the support of the Task Force SEAR team for each other despite their differences and the tensions that arose. It was great to see their camaraderie continue from book 1.

At first, I hesitated to dive into the heavy topics yet this story shows that we are in the midst of a spiritual fight whether we engage or not, and it is better to be prepared than go in blind and unprotected. This series has become a favourite, and I can't wait to see what JJ Samie Myles will write about in the next book.

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rina Soto and Nik “Nikyboy” Te Koha are in the thick of terrible situations as they search for the master mind spearheading many of the terrorist attacks on Christians in Indonesia. Both must come to terms with how they handle the tragedies in their own lives and the counter-terrorism careers they have chosen as they grow in faith and battle the elusive evil that is terrorizing the church with radicalized suicide bombers.
This is another fast paced read that leaves your heart pounding as you are once again reminded that the world we live in is in the midst of a continuous spiritual battle. No matter what the situation, God is in control and the need to rely on Him and cling to His truth, dressed in full Spiritual Armor is real and relevant every day.

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing addition to the Task Force Sear series. Elusive Evil starts off with a bang, and the SEAR team joins forces with Delta 77, an anti-terrorism unit in Lombok, in a race to stop terrorists against Christians. In this fast-paced, action-packed story, Nik and Rina are fighting physical and spiritual warfare. Both endured loss and pain in their lives. Myles crafted another wonderful story with realistic characters, team banter, and an engaging, hard to put down storyline.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just read it!

JJ Samie Myles knocks it out of the park again! I loved this book! It has it all… action, mystery/suspense, swoon worthy romance, lovable characters, and a fantastic faith element interwoven through it all.

I didn’t want to put this book down and I didn’t want to leave these characters. While this is the 2nd book in the series, it can be read as a standalone… until you decide you want to go back and read the first one anyways!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is jammed packed with all the things I love....action, romance, faith and fantastic team dynamics. Can't wait for next book!

[Words And Lore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the SEAR guys. Ugh! The love and savage banter and the radical faith. There is so much to love. The action is thrilling, the friendship is deep and a little savage 😆
I love the way Nik and Rina care for each other and how good they are together.
A great read if you love bold and thrilling Christian romance.

Some Quotes I liked:
He sighed. “No, it’s just . . . not a pretty story.” Rina’s expression softened. “I’m here for the beautiful and ugly, Nikyboy.”

“Do God’s work, Nikora. You’re made to combat evil, and the world needs men like you. The kind of men who stared into the abyss themselves and are willing to go back to rescue the ones at risk of being swallowed by it.”

“Quitting is not an option, Soto. You hear me?”

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must-Read Romantic Suspense!

I absolutely loved this story! Elusive Evil has everything I’m looking for in a romantic suspense: wonderful characters, a suspenseful plot with perfectly paced action, heartfelt romance, humor (Ariel is the best!), and some unexpected surprises that kept me turning the pages.

The faith thread was incredibly well done — it felt natural to the story and added so much depth. The spiritual warfare aspect really has me thinking. I loved every second of this book!

Nik and Rina were perfection together. Their individual histories just about broke my heart — I wanted to jump into the pages and give them both a hug, especially Nik. Their chemistry, emotional growth, and healing were all beautifully done. The pacing of the action was spot-on, and Ariel’s humor brought much-needed levity at just the right moments.

I’m really loving this team and the relationships between all the characters. Ms. Myles always includes thoughtful and relevant faith elements in her stories, and Elusive Evil is no exception. Here are two of my favorite quotes:

“Isn’t believing in God all about trusting that He does the right thing, even if it hurts us temporarily? We need to remember that He always works for our good, and that we only see a glimpse of the whole picture.”

“Human beings constantly felt the need to understand what was going on and explain everything. But if they could, God wouldn’t be God.”

If you haven’t read JJ Samie Myles/Skylar J. Kent yet, please do yourself a favor and put her books at the top of your TBR. She’s a must-read, an auto-buy author, and definitely a top favorite for me!

Elusive Evil is book 2 in the Task Force SEAR series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. That said, I’d highly recommend starting with Crimson Sands (book 1), which gives a great introduction to the team and characters you’ll come to love.