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Circle of Evil #2
Touching Evil
Forensic psychologist Sophia Channing nearly lost her life to a serial killer. Fortunately, her own quick thinking—and Division of Criminal Investigation agent Cam Prescott’s efforts—rescued her from a horrifying fate. Together, Sophia and Cam jailed the sadistic predator and closed the case on his reign of terror.
But when teenagers make a gruesome discovery in the Iowa woods, Sophia and Cam realize they’ve only scratched the surface of an evil that runs even deeper and deadlier than one madman’s twisted desires. And they don’t come more twisted than the killer known as the Zombie Lover: Vance’s mystery accomplice, who’s still at large and stacking up bodies. With the law snapping at his heels and private demons screaming in his head, the Zombie Lover is hell-bent on carrying out a desperate, double-edged mission. He’s determined to terminate Sophia, then target medical examiner Lucy Benally, who he’s vowed to make his own…dead or alive.
Revised edition: This edition of Touching Evil includes editorial revisions.
But when teenagers make a gruesome discovery in the Iowa woods, Sophia and Cam realize they’ve only scratched the surface of an evil that runs even deeper and deadlier than one madman’s twisted desires. And they don’t come more twisted than the killer known as the Zombie Lover: Vance’s mystery accomplice, who’s still at large and stacking up bodies. With the law snapping at his heels and private demons screaming in his head, the Zombie Lover is hell-bent on carrying out a desperate, double-edged mission. He’s determined to terminate Sophia, then target medical examiner Lucy Benally, who he’s vowed to make his own…dead or alive.
Revised edition: This edition of Touching Evil includes editorial revisions.
276 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2013
406 people are currently reading
734 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Brant
82 books639 followersThe mother of five children, Kylie Brant claims she began writing to save her sanity. Plotting stories became her method of escape from the reality of constant ball games, chauffeuring kids, and refereeing "minor" disagreements between her perfect offspring.
In 1992 she was elated to get a call from Silhouette offering to buy her second novel. Home with laryngitis at the time, she still managed to croak out agreement, and her career was born. A few months later she went on to sell Rancher's Choice, the first manuscript she’d written.
Kylie is married to her high school sweetheart, and they make their home in Iowa. She insists that all her heroes are based on her husband of 23 years because he possesses that most heroic of make qualities — ironing skills. Those abilities come in handy, as she juggles a full time teaching job with writing and a family.
Doing things the easy way has never held much appeal for this multi award-winning author. She graduated with high honors from the University of Northern Iowa. A graduation photo shows her in cap and gown holding her two sons, one aged 16 months and the other three weeks. She went on to obtain a teaching job working with learning-disabled children while completing her master’s degree at night and during summers.
"There was a time in my life when I could imagine myself as a life-long student," she recalls. "I actually toyed with the idea of pursuing a doctorate. But instead, my life took a spin and I ended up writing romances. I’ve never regretted it!" Her family has since been completed by the birth of another son and a set of twins, a boy and a girl.
Kylie’s books are regularly featured on bestseller lists such as Waldenbooks and B. Dalton Bookseller. With over a million copies of books in print, her novels have been distributed in 20 countries and released in seven languages.
Family and friends are the main focus of Kylie’s life. When she isn’t writing or teaching, she enjoys reading and flower gardening. She loves traveling, preferring beach, ocean, and room service.
In 1992 she was elated to get a call from Silhouette offering to buy her second novel. Home with laryngitis at the time, she still managed to croak out agreement, and her career was born. A few months later she went on to sell Rancher's Choice, the first manuscript she’d written.
Kylie is married to her high school sweetheart, and they make their home in Iowa. She insists that all her heroes are based on her husband of 23 years because he possesses that most heroic of make qualities — ironing skills. Those abilities come in handy, as she juggles a full time teaching job with writing and a family.
Doing things the easy way has never held much appeal for this multi award-winning author. She graduated with high honors from the University of Northern Iowa. A graduation photo shows her in cap and gown holding her two sons, one aged 16 months and the other three weeks. She went on to obtain a teaching job working with learning-disabled children while completing her master’s degree at night and during summers.
"There was a time in my life when I could imagine myself as a life-long student," she recalls. "I actually toyed with the idea of pursuing a doctorate. But instead, my life took a spin and I ended up writing romances. I’ve never regretted it!" Her family has since been completed by the birth of another son and a set of twins, a boy and a girl.
Kylie’s books are regularly featured on bestseller lists such as Waldenbooks and B. Dalton Bookseller. With over a million copies of books in print, her novels have been distributed in 20 countries and released in seven languages.
Family and friends are the main focus of Kylie’s life. When she isn’t writing or teaching, she enjoys reading and flower gardening. She loves traveling, preferring beach, ocean, and room service.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 7, 2015
I enjoyed this. Kept me on my toes, guessing.
We are back with Cam and Sophia. No, they are not together. He is there to protect her. The attraction is still there but they won't go there.
I liked the secondary characters too.
The "bad guy" was a total creep.
We meet other characters ... but what is their story? Are they victims? Only time will tell.
I saw some good reviews for book 3 and went to one-click it as soon as I had finished this one. It sort of ended on a bit of a cliffhanger... I hate cliffhangers.
But ... the kindle version is not out until October 20th! Aw, well. It is pre-ordered and hopefully I will still remember the previous two books by the time that rolls around.
We are back with Cam and Sophia. No, they are not together. He is there to protect her. The attraction is still there but they won't go there.
H headed in the direction of his spare bedroom. And tried not to recall the times, not all that long ago, that Sophie had spent her nights in his bedroom. With him at her side.
I liked the secondary characters too.
The "bad guy" was a total creep.
"I'm sorry Mommy.
I'm really, really sorry."
We meet other characters ... but what is their story? Are they victims? Only time will tell.
I saw some good reviews for book 3 and went to one-click it as soon as I had finished this one. It sort of ended on a bit of a cliffhanger... I hate cliffhangers.
But ... the kindle version is not out until October 20th! Aw, well. It is pre-ordered and hopefully I will still remember the previous two books by the time that rolls around.
Feeling like he was stepping off the edge of a very steep precipice, Cam nodded.
"You have my word."
August 21, 2015
Another spine tingler! And a great opening to book three!!! Which is where I'm going now. :)
September 16, 2015
When I left CHASING EVIL (Bk 1) Sonia Channing, Forensic Psychologist and Division of Criminal Investigation Agent Cam Prescott were on the trail of a serial killer.
The murders have continued, although the killer is behind bars, leaving no option to consider other than there was a partner. When this one tries to kill Sonia, she and law enforcement concoct a story about her 'death'.
This killer is really a psycho. "Mommy" seems to direct his every move, although she has been dead for many years ...at the hands of the killer.
And when this killer sets his sights on Lucy Benally, medical examiner, there is no one safe.
I have really enjoyed the first two stories in this series. Heading to FACING EVIL (Final) next. This is a Romantic Suspense..... probably 50/50. I love how the chase for the bad guy goes. Lots of movement, lots of excitement, lots of drama. I like the personal issues between all the characters ..some get resolved, some don't (just like in real life)
There is a cliffhanger of sorts ...setting up where FACING EVIL will go. I'm looking forward to following....
Thank you to NetGalley / Thomas & Mercer for a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
4.5 Stars
The murders have continued, although the killer is behind bars, leaving no option to consider other than there was a partner. When this one tries to kill Sonia, she and law enforcement concoct a story about her 'death'.
This killer is really a psycho. "Mommy" seems to direct his every move, although she has been dead for many years ...at the hands of the killer.
And when this killer sets his sights on Lucy Benally, medical examiner, there is no one safe.
I have really enjoyed the first two stories in this series. Heading to FACING EVIL (Final) next. This is a Romantic Suspense..... probably 50/50. I love how the chase for the bad guy goes. Lots of movement, lots of excitement, lots of drama. I like the personal issues between all the characters ..some get resolved, some don't (just like in real life)
There is a cliffhanger of sorts ...setting up where FACING EVIL will go. I'm looking forward to following....
Thank you to NetGalley / Thomas & Mercer for a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
4.5 Stars
April 3, 2014
Rating 3.5 stars
After struggling to get through the first book this one surprisingly gripped me from the start because I felt it had romance as well as suspense. Sophia is still recovering from her attack and Cam is protective and trying to find the second partner. Honestly, I loved the book and didn't see the last twist coming. I am looking forward to the last book.
After struggling to get through the first book this one surprisingly gripped me from the start because I felt it had romance as well as suspense. Sophia is still recovering from her attack and Cam is protective and trying to find the second partner. Honestly, I loved the book and didn't see the last twist coming. I am looking forward to the last book.
July 9, 2017
Good except for the pornography
I really liked reading this crime thriller except for the ridiculously long and detailed descriptions of the sex scenes. At least half a dozen of them scattered throughout the book. The story got sidetracked from a fast paced, interesting detective novel and devolved into a boring bodice ripper. Boring to me, anyway. I just quickly scanned over those silly scenes to get back to the action, but it really detracted from the quality of this book.
I really liked reading this crime thriller except for the ridiculously long and detailed descriptions of the sex scenes. At least half a dozen of them scattered throughout the book. The story got sidetracked from a fast paced, interesting detective novel and devolved into a boring bodice ripper. Boring to me, anyway. I just quickly scanned over those silly scenes to get back to the action, but it really detracted from the quality of this book.
January 7, 2014
Love this series and can't wait for the last book of the trilogy. A must read for lovers of romantic suspense. But start with the first one, so you get the full scope of Cam and Sophie's relationship.
June 28, 2019
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
December 27, 2021
Rating is a 3.5 the names they give to the villian....The Zombie Lover.....there are some crazies in this world!!! Enjoyed the story and the characters.
August 12, 2016
Another cliffhanger, another awesome narration..
Ok, the bad guy in Chasing Evil was truly a sexual deviant BUT Sonny (his name is mentioned right off the bat so telling you his name is not a spoiler), our bad guy in this book, was totally sickening since he was a necrophiliac. OMG! That is so disgusting. I guess you could call it a plus that the body had been embalmed before he got busy with it. Again, I’m so glad the author doesn’t describe what he and the corpse are doing. Ewww.
Again, during this book Cam and Sophie are fighting there attraction but since Sophie came so close to having a horrible ending in the last book she’s not fighting her feelings so much in this book. When she finally told Cam about her feelings I was so glad. Oh, she didn’t tell him she loved him but it was close enough, for now.
I’d also like to compliment this author on her sex scene. It did go on for pages and pages BUT it was sweet and so romantic WITHOUT all the stupid things that so many other authors have lovers saying to each other, you know, all that crap you roll your eyes at and say, “who talks like that?” Cam and Sophie are attracted to each other but there wasn’t an ounce of sexual tension in this book.
There was swearing and the F-bomb was used 26 times.
I do like Gavin and Lucy and it did become exciting when Gavin was shot and Lucy was taken by Sonny.
As to the narration: I just realized why I enjoyed this narrator. She doesn’t read with ‘sometimes’ emotions. She reads every word, every sentence, every paragraph with emotions. That’s why I enjoyed every word of the last book, Chasing Evil, as well as this one. Whether it Cam’s smooth sexy voice or Sophie’s soft, calming and cultured tone or the killer’s evil, cunning, creepy, whiny, laughing, well you get what I mean, Kate Zane just does it all through the whole book.
Ok, the bad guy in Chasing Evil was truly a sexual deviant BUT Sonny (his name is mentioned right off the bat so telling you his name is not a spoiler), our bad guy in this book, was totally sickening since he was a necrophiliac. OMG! That is so disgusting. I guess you could call it a plus that the body had been embalmed before he got busy with it. Again, I’m so glad the author doesn’t describe what he and the corpse are doing. Ewww.
Again, during this book Cam and Sophie are fighting there attraction but since Sophie came so close to having a horrible ending in the last book she’s not fighting her feelings so much in this book. When she finally told Cam about her feelings I was so glad. Oh, she didn’t tell him she loved him but it was close enough, for now.
I’d also like to compliment this author on her sex scene. It did go on for pages and pages BUT it was sweet and so romantic WITHOUT all the stupid things that so many other authors have lovers saying to each other, you know, all that crap you roll your eyes at and say, “who talks like that?” Cam and Sophie are attracted to each other but there wasn’t an ounce of sexual tension in this book.
There was swearing and the F-bomb was used 26 times.
I do like Gavin and Lucy and it did become exciting when Gavin was shot and Lucy was taken by Sonny.
As to the narration: I just realized why I enjoyed this narrator. She doesn’t read with ‘sometimes’ emotions. She reads every word, every sentence, every paragraph with emotions. That’s why I enjoyed every word of the last book, Chasing Evil, as well as this one. Whether it Cam’s smooth sexy voice or Sophie’s soft, calming and cultured tone or the killer’s evil, cunning, creepy, whiny, laughing, well you get what I mean, Kate Zane just does it all through the whole book.
December 4, 2015
And so the series continues. Well written characters, a little romance, suspense and plot twists.
October 13, 2020
Another dark and twisted one
I didn't expect the ending but I definitely understood where it was coming from. The clues were there. The story picks up at an interesting place where Cam and Sophia realize there is actually another killer, one that favors the dead. After an attempt on Sophia's life, they work hard to catch the zombie killer while uncovering more of the victims he and partner Vance have abused. Just as they get close to catching him, another loose end appears.
I have to admit that I wasn't sure what to expect but eww, someone who sexually assaults a dead body is disturbing to think about. I'm still not sure why he did that even knowing what his childhood was like.
I didn't expect the ending but I definitely understood where it was coming from. The clues were there. The story picks up at an interesting place where Cam and Sophia realize there is actually another killer, one that favors the dead. After an attempt on Sophia's life, they work hard to catch the zombie killer while uncovering more of the victims he and partner Vance have abused. Just as they get close to catching him, another loose end appears.
I have to admit that I wasn't sure what to expect but eww, someone who sexually assaults a dead body is disturbing to think about. I'm still not sure why he did that even knowing what his childhood was like.
September 27, 2018
Great follow on from the first Circle of Evil book
I was able to get into this book much easier than the first. It pays to read the books in order to follow the story line. The characters had developed a little more although I still had a little trouble trying to remember the peripheral characters roles and names straight. I did like the cadaver dog & handler (ok, I'm an animal lover so I pay more attention especially when a border collie is involved).
Once again, a nice twist at the end to ensure I read the final book of the trilogy.
I was able to get into this book much easier than the first. It pays to read the books in order to follow the story line. The characters had developed a little more although I still had a little trouble trying to remember the peripheral characters roles and names straight. I did like the cadaver dog & handler (ok, I'm an animal lover so I pay more attention especially when a border collie is involved).
Once again, a nice twist at the end to ensure I read the final book of the trilogy.
June 12, 2020
Oh Boy, Oh Boy!
I gave this 5 stars because I really, really like the series. I also like that even though a series, there is a sort of closure at the end of each book that, at least for me, allows me to close the book and be comfortable about waiting until I have time to start the next book in the series.
I am also totally enthralled with Cam! Having confessed to that, I love Cam and Sophia's
developing relationship.
I must also say, that if I ever have to see a therapist I would hope to find one as caring as Sophia.
I gave this 5 stars because I really, really like the series. I also like that even though a series, there is a sort of closure at the end of each book that, at least for me, allows me to close the book and be comfortable about waiting until I have time to start the next book in the series.
I am also totally enthralled with Cam! Having confessed to that, I love Cam and Sophia's
developing relationship.
I must also say, that if I ever have to see a therapist I would hope to find one as caring as Sophia.
September 21, 2020
Didn't see it coming!!
This is the second book in the Circle of Evil series. I don't recommend it until you read the first one. I definitely recommend this series, I have enjoyed it tremendously so far!! The interesting and complex characters make for a series that contains numerous plotlines that twist beautifully and unexpectedly yet intertwine and connect with convincing satisfaction. It's a must read for anyone who enjoys mystery/psycho thrillers!! Try and guess where this one's going!
This is the second book in the Circle of Evil series. I don't recommend it until you read the first one. I definitely recommend this series, I have enjoyed it tremendously so far!! The interesting and complex characters make for a series that contains numerous plotlines that twist beautifully and unexpectedly yet intertwine and connect with convincing satisfaction. It's a must read for anyone who enjoys mystery/psycho thrillers!! Try and guess where this one's going!
June 21, 2018
DCI Agent Cam Prescott helped rescue DR. Sophia Channing from a serial killer. After arresting the killer they thought the case was closed. Some teenager stumbled upon a man and a corpse in the woods. After further investigation they find it is tied to the same man that had kidnapped Dr. Channing. After unearthing several more bodies the race is on now to catch the man nicknamed The Zombie Lover. Fast paced with lots of suspense.
June 13, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed the first book in the series and wasn't sure what to expect from this one but this book was every bit as good as the first one if not better.. There was certainly plenty of suspense and thrills to keep me hooked . Looking forward to the next one. This book i would recommend you read
I enjoyed the first book in the series and wasn't sure what to expect from this one but this book was every bit as good as the first one if not better.. There was certainly plenty of suspense and thrills to keep me hooked . Looking forward to the next one. This book i would recommend you read
July 12, 2018
This is a review of the audio edition: Strong second in the Circle of Evil series. I continue to enjoy the character development and the story line remains interesting and keeps getting better. This is probably one of the better crime series I’ve read because of story’s flow from book one to two... you can’t help but be interested in picking up the next edition.
February 5, 2017
This series is so good. Cam and Sophie take a strange turn in the search for the cornbelt killers and add Matt from his task force Cam has a lot to worry about while watching Sophie safe. Kylie Brant keeps you on your toes and difficult to put the book down. Great second book to this series.
January 27, 2018
Could not put this down
The story is interesting the internal dialogue a bit repetitive and the love connection between the main characters is very typical but the story moves and has a few twists. I had to keep reading
The story is interesting the internal dialogue a bit repetitive and the love connection between the main characters is very typical but the story moves and has a few twists. I had to keep reading
February 5, 2018
Second in this trilogy. Excellent plot line. Intoduces new characters and filling in more background of existing ones. This book delivers everything promised in the brief synopsis. Certainly worth reading. Once you start you will want to find out the true ending. I'm just about to start book 3
May 21, 2018
Engaging sequel to Chasing Evil. Wonderful main and supporting characters, I give it only four stars because it introduces a second strong woman afraid of romance? losing control? Read it and see for yourself. Meanwhile, I'm moving on to the final boof ot the trilogy, Facing Evil.
December 4, 2017
Evil Story
Great storyline! Cam and Sophia are trying to find a killer but the twists and turns they face keep them from it.
Great storyline! Cam and Sophia are trying to find a killer but the twists and turns they face keep them from it.
November 25, 2017
Killers
Excellent hero & heroine. You are taken in by both equally. Lots of twists & turns to keep you interested
Excellent hero & heroine. You are taken in by both equally. Lots of twists & turns to keep you interested
December 20, 2017
MUST READ
This is another of those "must read" books. Kylie Brant is a great writer and I'm off to read the third book in the series.
This is another of those "must read" books. Kylie Brant is a great writer and I'm off to read the third book in the series.
January 20, 2018
Once again brilliant read. .
Another fantastic read another one I couldn't put down. Good twist at the end. I am downloading book 3. Cant wait to see what happens. !!!!
Another fantastic read another one I couldn't put down. Good twist at the end. I am downloading book 3. Cant wait to see what happens. !!!!
April 9, 2018
Suspenseful
The author,Kylie Grant has outdone herself in the second of this series of Circle of Evil. Lots of twist and turns inviting you in the end to continue on.
The author,Kylie Grant has outdone herself in the second of this series of Circle of Evil. Lots of twist and turns inviting you in the end to continue on.
May 21, 2018
Touching Evil
This is a book worth reading. This book has great suspense a d thrills. This is a book you don't want to put down. I recommend this book
This is a book worth reading. This book has great suspense a d thrills. This is a book you don't want to put down. I recommend this book
July 13, 2018
Good hunt for a serial killer story.
January 3, 2019
An excellent sequel to the first book! I could t put it down and can not wait to read the next one!
January 25, 2019
Very good mystery
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews