By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

"Chasing Evil: Shocking Crimes, Supernatural Forces, and an FBI Agent’s Search for Hope and Justice" is a perplexing amalgamation of true crime narrative and supernatural conjecture. Authored by retired FBI agent Robert Hilland and self-proclaimed psychic John Edward, with assistance from Natasha Stoynoff, the book purports to chronicle their 25-year collaboration in solving heinous crimes.

The narrative commences in 1998, when Agent Hilland, ostensibly at his wit's end with an unsolvable cold case, reaches out to Edward. This initial contact, as described, leads to a series of breakthroughs in the investigation of the John Smith murders—a case that had previously confounded law enforcement. The authors assert that Edward's psychic insights were instrumental in locating the remains of Smith's first wife, thereby securing a conviction. Subsequent chapters detail their involvement in high-profile cases, including the identification of a 9/11 victim and the pursuit of fugitive Whitey Bulger.

While the premise is undeniably intriguing, the book demands an extraordinary suspension of disbelief. The reliance on psychic phenomena as a legitimate investigative tool is presented without sufficient empirical evidence, challenging the reader's credulity. As noted in a review by the Washington Independent Review of Books, the authors expect readers to accept Edward's abilities at face value, a proposition that strains common sense. ([washingtonindependentreviewofbooks.com](https://www.washingtonindependentreviewofbooks.com/features/our-week-in-reviews-8-30-25?utm_source=openai))

The writing itself is serviceable but lacks the critical analysis expected in a serious true crime work. The narrative often veers into self-congratulatory territory, with Hilland and Edward portraying themselves as an infallible duo, their methods beyond reproach. This lack of introspection diminishes the book's credibility and leaves the reader questioning the veracity of the accounts.

Furthermore, the book's structure is disjointed, with abrupt transitions between cases and a tendency to dwell on tangential personal anecdotes. This approach disrupts the narrative flow and detracts from the central theme of crime-solving. The inclusion of Natasha Stoynoff as a co-author is puzzling, as her contribution is not clearly delineated, leading to further confusion.

In conclusion, "Chasing Evil" is a frustrating read that fails to deliver on its promise of an insightful exploration into the intersection of law enforcement and the supernatural. The book's reliance on unsubstantiated claims and its lack of critical analysis render it a dubious addition to the true crime genre. Readers seeking a rigorous examination of criminal investigations would be better served elsewhere.

Recommendation: Not recommended.

written on: 9/11/2025