Belief by Chris Parker.
'I'm going to say a few words.' That's the promise made by Ethan Hall, the serial killer and master hypnotist, when he recovers from his gunshot wounds and escapes from hospital. It's a promise that causes havoc, loss and unending pain. Using language to bend people to his will, influencing others to carry out the most destructive acts, Ethan Hall extracts his revenge on Marcus Kline and those closest to him in the most personal and savage ways. Six months have passed since a series of horrific murders forced Marcus Kline, the world's leading authority on communication and influence, into a unique confrontation with Ethan - a battle of words like no other. Now Marcus is trying desperately to save his cancer-stricken wife and rebuild his life, his reputation and his shattered self-confidence. Only Ethan Hall has other plans. Now, with Marcus Kline's self-belief at an all time low, the struggle for survival, sanity and salvation teaches everyone involved that things can always get worse.
Good read with good characters. Little slow but I managed to read it. 4*. Netgalley and urban publications.