Chasing Evil: Shocking Crimes, Supernatural Forces, and an FBI Agent’s Search for Hope and Justice
John Edward and Robert Hilland, with Natasha Stoynoff. St. Martin’s Essentials, $32 (368p) ISBN 978-1-250-29175-2
Psychic Edward (Fallen Masters) and retired FBI agent Hilland recount their decades-long crime-solving partnership in this mesmerizing account. Hilland was a paranormal skeptic when, in 1998, he half-heartedly called Edward—a well-known medium—for help with an FBI cold case about the missing wives of a man named John Smith. Though the case had stumped law enforcement for years, Edward offered advice from his spirit guide that led Hilland to a clue which proved instrumental in locating the mutilated body of Smith’s first wife. Smith was convicted, and Edward, who wanted to avoid publicity about his work with the police, quickly bonded with Hilland. Their friendship turned into a 25-year working partnership, which they candidly reflect on here, with Hilland taking most of the narrative duties. High-profile cases he recalls collaborating on include identifying a 9/11 victim, tracking down an on-the-run Whitey Bulger, and making strides in the Michael Vick dog-fighting case. The duo’s chemistry, the variety of crimes covered, and the supernatural subject matter conspire to make this a good bet for true crime fans who think they’ve seen it all. Photos. (Sept.)
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Reviewed on: 07/14/2025
Genre: Nonfiction