Material Witness

Nov 20, 2012 Mercedes Cordero rated it 5 of 5 stars

An excellent, excellent ending to an almost flawless series. Vanetta Chapman, so very skilfully and masterfully, weaves intriguing hidden messages and a beautiful romance into a great mystery. Every detail fits perfectly in the plot, advancing the story, the drama and our interest in the characters. Nothing is out of place, everything is important to the story and every character has a mission to accomplish.

We once again see Callie interacting with her three Amish friends: Deborah, whom I love i...more An excellent, excellent ending to an almost flawless series. Vanetta Chapman, so very skilfully and masterfully, weaves intriguing hidden messages and a beautiful romance into a great mystery. Every detail fits perfectly in the plot, advancing the story, the drama and our interest in the characters. Nothing is out of place, everything is important to the story and every character has a mission to accomplish.

We once again see Callie interacting with her three Amish friends: Deborah, whom I love in a I-want-to-be-like-her kind of way (yeah, I'm a Deborah groupie), Esther, and Melinda. The depth their friendship has reached, the way their friendship has grown, progressed and mature is simply lovely. They are friends who love, support and look out for each other with fierce love and determination, and that is a rare thing even in a work of fiction. But we also get to see Callie falling in love with a man who really loves her and is not afraid to show it. I loved that. I'm a sucker for a good, sweet, clean romance.

Now, this time around, we get to know Deborah's and Melinda's children, too. Usually when writing kids, authors tend to write them as either too precocious or too bland and immature for their age. Not here. The children are written age appropriately, and we get to see how their mind works, how they plot and plan and how they take action in their strong-willed way. I loved the children's point of view, and how innocent and, at the same time, take charge they are.

The character development is one of the best I have seen/read in a long time. The way Mrs. Chapman uses descriptions and details to reveal the characters' personalities and traits is clever and makes everything fit together. Nothing is superfluous. The story flows, the pace never breaks, and every word, detail, dialogue and description serves a purpose.

The mystery, the drama, the suspense and the romance held my attention, kept my interest and had me turning the pages quickly and steadily. Intriguing, beautiful and sweet with a great ending that did not disappoint and gave me closure. Mrs. Chapman did such a great job that, even when things didn't necessarily turn out as I hoped, it still made me smile, completely satisfied.

Flawless!(less)

like 2 likes · see review

Jan 13, 2013 Janie R. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: amish-books-read

Excellent book by Vannetta Chapman! I enjoyed this book,very much, esp. since Max played a very special role in the book..I knew he was always a special kind of hero! Thank you,Vannetta for including Max in the book in lot of ways..it made me smile! And I was glad to see the transformation in Shane Black...love is pretty powerful! All in all it was a great conclusion to the series, there were times it was time to go to sleep... and it sure was hard to put this book down! I highly recommend this...more

like 1 like · see review

May 06, 2013 Michelle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Happy times are flowing through Shipshewana, Indiana, that is until Aaron, Melinda Byer’s little boy witnesses a murder in the parking lot of Callie Harper’s quilt shop that sends this small town into shock. Material Witness has our quartet of leading ladies: Callie, Ester, Deborah and Melinda, who are once again involved in a murder investigation. Callie is beside herself and cannot believe this is happening. Little does she know that her world is about to be turned upside down and inside out....more Happy times are flowing through Shipshewana, Indiana, that is until Aaron, Melinda Byer’s little boy witnesses a murder in the parking lot of Callie Harper’s quilt shop that sends this small town into shock. Material Witness has our quartet of leading ladies: Callie, Ester, Deborah and Melinda, who are once again involved in a murder investigation. Callie is beside herself and cannot believe this is happening. Little does she know that her world is about to be turned upside down and inside out. The killer wants something that Callie has and will not rest until they get it. Shane Black is back on the scene to investigate along with Andrew Gavin. Shane vows to protect Callie, who has taken up space in his heart and little Aaron who is the only one who can identify the mad man. Time is of the essence and they must all work together to figure out why Callie is involved before the killer strikes again. The ladies seem to think there are clues to this mystery hidden on a set of quilts that they were given. Shane thinks they may be off their rockers. A stack of quilts can’t possibly hold the answers they are looking for right? Or can they………

Material Witness grabs your attention right off the bat and doesn’t let you go until your fingers have turned the last page. This book had my heart pounding one minute and the next minute I was smiling and giving a little fist pump! The love between family, friends, and how far one is willing go to protect them is captured beautifully in this book. The interaction between the children was an added surprise because I think they stole the show! Although I am sad that my adventures are over in Shipshewana, I am fully satisfied with how Vannetta has ended this amazing series of books. All three books are top notch and will always have a spot on my bookshelf. When I read a book that is as wonderful as Material Witness, I am always a little miffed why on earth people say they don’t care to read Amish fiction. Vannetta Chapman has crafted a clever and witty tale that is full of suspense and engaging characters. Why would you not want to read something that will fill you to the brim with honest to goodness writing and beautiful story telling?(less)

like 1 like · see review

Dec 06, 2012 Kathleen (Kat) Smith rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: amish-historical-romance-fiction, chick-literature, christian-action-adventure, christian-fiction, christian-suspense-fiction, contemporary-fiction, murder-mystery, romance-fiction, supense-thriller-fiction

I just love it when really talented authors take some of my favorite genre's and mix them together to create such a seamless blend for a great story you truly fall in love all over again with being an avid book reader. In the case of Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman, we are taken back to the small Amish town of Shipshewana, Indiana that is comprised of about 600 residents, not all of them Amish. Here in this small town there's been a bit of competition between two owners of Amish quilt store...more I just love it when really talented authors take some of my favorite genre's and mix them together to create such a seamless blend for a great story you truly fall in love all over again with being an avid book reader. In the case of Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman, we are taken back to the small Amish town of Shipshewana, Indiana that is comprised of about 600 residents, not all of them Amish. Here in this small town there's been a bit of competition between two owners of Amish quilt stores. Mrs. Knepp is the eighty-year-old owner of Quilts and Needles and feels that Callie Harper and her friends that run Daisy's Quilt Shop have deviated from the traditional Amish ways by offering quilting, knitting and other craft classes that draw much of the business to their shop. Even the English tourists have been frequenting Daisy's Quilt Shop over Mrs. Knepps.

Yet in the middle of the Fall Festival, things are about to get interesting. Now the population of the small town is well over thirty thousand and business is booming. The streets are crowded and no one seems to notice an Amish women standing in the shrubs just outside the parking lot of Daisy's Quilt Shop. No one that is except for Aaron, a small boy who is confined to a wheelchair and a Labrador named Max. Without any sound, the woman falls sprawled out on the ground. There is no sound, no blood. In the darkness only the evil eyes of a man who stands over the women and then stares at Aaron is the only lasting memory of what has just happened.

When Callie Harper learns what has happened and to whom, she is immediately ridden with guilt for all the months that her and Mrs. Knepp argued over their businesses. What's worse is this is the third murder to happen in the small town of Shipshewana in the last fifteen months and in every single one of those cases, Callie Harper has been involved. Not it seems that this murder case is about to get personal on many levels. Callie Harper is the target and not only does someone want what she has or they'll risk murder, but Aaron is the only eye witness. Will Callie be able to help solve this crime or will she finally run out of options?

I received Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman compliments of Zondervan Publishing and Net Galley for my honest review. I absolutely LOVED this book and it immediately captivated my interest from the first page and I could not put it down until I knew who did it! This is the third book in the Shipshewana Mystery series and once again brings back the characters we have fallen in love with including the romantic tension between investigator Shane Black and Callie Harper. Will they finally realize their interest lies more than just in solving cases and goes much, much deeper? You'll have to pick this one up to find out. I personally give this one a 5 out of 5 stars!!!(less)

like 1 like · see review

Nov 02, 2012 Brenda Casto rated it 5 of 5 stars

To say that I love this series is an understatement. I feel like Ms. Chapman's storytelling just gets better and better. While I love the mystery that takes place in each of the Shipshewana Amish Mystery series, it's really the friendships that take place between the Amish and English characters that really sells me on the series.

The Fall Crafters Fair which is Shipshewana's largest festival of the year, is in full swing, when a murder takes place in the parking lot of Daisy's Quilt Shop.With on...more To say that I love this series is an understatement. I feel like Ms. Chapman's storytelling just gets better and better. While I love the mystery that takes place in each of the Shipshewana Amish Mystery series, it's really the friendships that take place between the Amish and English characters that really sells me on the series.

The Fall Crafters Fair which is Shipshewana's largest festival of the year, is in full swing, when a murder takes place in the parking lot of Daisy's Quilt Shop.With only one witness to the crime, it might not be so easy to solve. As things start to escalate Callie realizes that she just might be the intended target, it seems she has something the killer wants, but she isn't sure what it is! Thing is this killer isn't going to stop until he gets it, regardless of what he has to do. Can the police figure it out, or will it take Callie and her friends to solve this one?

To say this book has a fast moving plot is an understatement! Once I started reading it, I couldn't wait to see what might happen! There were several suspenseful moments in the story, which pulled it right along. This book really has it all,in addition to the small town feel of the story, it has the Amish/Englisher friendship, a splash of romance,a nice mystery, a dog, baby, Amish children one of which is dealing with an illness that was new to me. Chicken Breast Disease was something I had never heard of but learned a bit about in this story.I always enjoy whenever a dog is included in a story and with this one we have Max. The author provides a satisfying ending, that wraps up the story nicely, I just hope that this book isn't the final one in the series.

While this is the third book in the Shipshewana Amish Mystery series it can easily be read as a stand alone work, although if you're a fan of Amish fiction, cozy mysteries, or just a great read, you are certainly going to want to read the entire series. Each story is a good clean read, that I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to anyone. Highly recommended!
(less)

like 1 like · see review

Oct 17, 2012 Pathway Midland rated it 4 of 5 stars

Book 3 in Chapman’s Shipshewana Amish Mystery series was one of those I could not put down until I had finished it well past my bedtime. Callie Harper, owner of Daisy’s Quilt Shop, and her three Amish friends (Deborah, Esther, and Melinda) are again unwittingly pulled into yet another mystery in the small northern Indiana town when one of Melinda’s sons witnesses a murder in Callie’s parking lot during the town’s busy Fall Crafter’s Fair. Detective Shane Black struggles to keep them all safe and...more

like 1 like · see review

Sep 14, 2012 Maureen Timerman rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

Just finished another great visit with Callie, and her Amish girlfriends. Deborah, Esther, and Melinda who have made Callie an honorary sister.
When the owner of the other fabric shop is found dead in Callie's parking lot, and the murder witnessed by young Aaron, Melinda's young handicapped son. You have to think...not again?? Mrs Knepp, the deceased has never liked Callie, but why was she murdered?
The only thing they can think of is the quilts that an elderly Amish woman left the four of them....more

like 2 likes · see review

Sep 09, 2012 Jodie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, amish-fiction, net-galley, vannetta-chapman, christian-manifesto

Once again the small town of Shipshe is turned upside down when Callie finds a woman dead in front of her quilt store. As the details come in, detective Shane Black realizes that the killer actually meant to go after Callie. Now, they must find out who this "creeper" guy is and get what he is asking for or someone in Callie's circle of friends may be the next victim.

I have read the first two in the series and must honestly say, this one is by far the BEST one! From the very beginning, I was draw...more Once again the small town of Shipshe is turned upside down when Callie finds a woman dead in front of her quilt store. As the details come in, detective Shane Black realizes that the killer actually meant to go after Callie. Now, they must find out who this "creeper" guy is and get what he is asking for or someone in Callie's circle of friends may be the next victim.

I have read the first two in the series and must honestly say, this one is by far the BEST one! From the very beginning, I was drawn in. Not only was there a “who dunnit” type mystery, but there were also kids involved, a beloved dog, and romance. With that combination, what’s not to love about the book?

I loved that Vannetta also included emotions from all the characters into the story. From the beginning, Deborah was worried about allowing her children to go out by themselves at the Festival. That allowed me to connect with her as I would have felt the same way. It seems as though no matter how old your children get, it’s never easy to let them “grow up.” I also enjoyed having the kids sneakiness mixed throughout the book. What a bunch of brave, determined children. Most times children are just glossed over and only referred to as “present” in a certain scene. However, Vannetta does a beautiful job of not just including them in the story, but also allowing their “issues” to be integral to the story.

One of my other favorite aspects of this series is the relationship between the Englisch and the Amish communities. The two communities of Shipshe always seem to pull together, without issue, in a time of crisis. What I like is that when they do pull together, they still remain true to their beliefs, and respect the others beliefs. When Shane was questioning some in the Amish community, he gathered more from their facial reactions and body language than he did their actual word answers. He knew the Amish wouldn’t turn against their own or allow any police authority. However, he didn’t belittle or disrespect them; he just went with his gut instinct and found another way to go about getting his answers.

As with any mystery, the best part should be the mystery and suspense part of the storyline. Vannetta sure didn’t disappoint in this one. Like I said earlier, I was drawn in right from the beginning with the murder of the woman on the sidewalk. But, that wasn’t all there was to this story. Along with the murder, there was the mystery of the quilt and if they did in fact have a hidden message or not. I really liked the fact that once the “creeper’s” identity was revealed, there was still mystery as to if they would discover the hidden money in time, or if there even was any hidden money. To continue the intrigue in the story, then they still had to figure out the message in the quilts and if it was relevant to the “creeper.”

I like that when I pick up one of Vannetta’s mysteries, I get a good, clean mystery. I don’t need all the gruesomeness of some mysteries out there. Just give me the knowledge someone was murdered, mix that with a good story line to keep up the suspense, and then throw in a little reality and romance. That’s what I have come to love with this series because that’s exactly what this series delivers. Thank you Vannetta!

Pros: Great suspenseful story line.

Cons: I would have liked a clearer finality to the quilt map.

I was graciously provided a free copy of this book from Zondervan in partnership with The Christian Manifesto to review it. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. (less)

like 2 likes · see review

Aug 18, 2012 Rhonda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman
4 STARS This book is the third book in the series but the first one I have read. So to me it seems like a stand alone novel with old friends back together. Now I would love to go back and read the ones I missed. This a mix of friends some amish and others english and some cops. They all seem to be friends and respect each others ways. The characters are warm and likeable. Except the murders of course. It keeps you guess till the end on who and why. It is a cl...more Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman
4 STARS This book is the third book in the series but the first one I have read. So to me it seems like a stand alone novel with old friends back together. Now I would love to go back and read the ones I missed. This a mix of friends some amish and others english and some cops. They all seem to be friends and respect each others ways. The characters are warm and likeable. Except the murders of course. It keeps you guess till the end on who and why. It is a clean book no sex,no swearing, some kissing, some lying and some killings. The story begings at the Fall Crafters Fair that is going on in town. Daisy's Quilt Shop is busy at this time. Three kids leave thier parents and go look over the booths and almost back to the store one of the Matt realized he had left his wallet at one of two booths. So they parked Aaron in his wheelchair near a bench and the other two ran back to look for the wallet. It was Aaron idea to wait thier because he knew they could each run faster and check a booth and get back to him before they were all late getting back. While Aaron was waiting he saw a lady in the bushes looking at the store not wanting to be seen. He also so a man come up behind her and the lady fell face down and the killer bending over and picking something up and looked right into his eyes. Aaron had Max Callie's dog with him and he started barking loudly and the guy ran off. After the crime scene people had left Callie went back to her apartment that is by the store and got a phone call wanting the money of someone else would be hurt. She was being watched and if she went to the police he would know. Callie did not know how he knew where she was and what she was doing but she was not willing to take the risk. Especially when he mentioned Aaron and his wheelchair and killing Max. So she texted Shane the police detective who was in charge of the case that she would be late for thier breakfast and the new time and place. Callie was able to tell him about the phone call and trashing her place. They came up with a plan that would give them time. keep Callie safe and her friend's son Aaron safe. So while everyone met to work together to figure out what money was missing and how someone would think that she now had it and why they think it was Callie that was supposed to be hurt instead of killing a 80 year old lady who was dressed like her. So her friends and families all stayed at another amish house to keep them safe. The three teens also had thier own ideas and plans after they were almost killed by being run over. They wanted to stop the killer so they tried to lie to their parents. This was a good detective romance story. I did not put it down till I had finshed reading it. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest reviews by Netgalley. 09/01/2012 PUB Zondervan 320 pages ISBN 9780310330455 (less)

like 2 likes · see review

Jun 26, 2012 Barb Klein rated it 4 of 5 stars

“Material Witness” by Vannetta Chapman is a Shipshewana Amish Mystery. I don’t know why I enjoy the books about the Amish and Mennonites so much. Maybe it’s because of the simple lifestyle and non-violent aspects of their faith. “Material Witness” is a really good murder mystery. I live in Indiana and am familiar with Shipshewana and the area of northern Indiana so I can identify with the story a little more than I would otherwise. Callie, an Enslischer, Deborah, Melinda and Esther, Amish women...more

like 1 like · see review

Sep 28, 2012 Jeannie and Louis Rigod rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is the third novel in what, I believe, is a trilogy of mysteries set in an Amish town. Shipshewana, IN.

Best friends, Esther, Deborah, Melinda are enjoying the annual Fall Crafter's Fair when Melinda's child witnesses a murder in the yard of Daisy's Quilt Shop. The killer sees the boy and off begins a story of friendship, and suspense.

Who is this bold, in your face, and willing to attack in daylight killer? Is he one of the community or an Englischer? Why is it at their friends shop? Was Mr...more

like 1 like · see review

Nov 01, 2012 Dorrice added it

Just a note to say that the last book I read I am not even going to list here on Goodreads. The plot was so super simple that I almost quit half way through. I am not going to identify the book or the author. I already know this story will not be like that, as I have read some of Vannetta Chapman's books before.Whew!

Two days later:I just finished reading the book and enjoyed every word. Vanetta Chapman is a skilled writer who knows how to keep a plot moving and does it without losing sight of th...more

like 1 like · see review

Sep 08, 2012 Kristy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Vannetta Chapman’s “Material Witness” proves to be as wonderful, if not more compelling than her two previous Shipshewana Series books. “Material Witness” combines friendship, the “plain” life, mystery and romance all in one. The friendships you have grown to love throughout the previous books continue and grow even more strong in this third book.

The book begins with a murder right outside Daisy’s Quilt Shop that Callie continues to manage. The only material witness – the handicapped boy of Mel...more

like 1 like · see review

Aug 25, 2012 Rhonda Gayle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Tragedy strikes on the opening night of the Fall Crafters Fair when a woman is
killed in the parking lot of Daisy's Quilt Shop, and the only material witness is one of Melinda Byer's boys. The investigation takes a more bizarre turn when detective Shane Black becomes convinced the killer was actually after Callie.
This time it's a madman loose in the largest crowd of the year, and he's looking for something or someone. If they can't figure out what, one of Deborah and Callie's close circle of fri...more

like 2 likes · see review

Aug 06, 2012 Kathyk21 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Material Witness is one of a series of mysteries set in an Amish community. The mystery and story line were well done. There was good suspense and action after the opening setting. The quilting theme was nicely woven into the story, providing the reader with an insight into the craft, art, and valuation of Amish work.

I was disappointed in one minor aspects of the book. The main character, Carrie's emotional reactions were a bit forced and didn't feel authentic. She was frightened one moment and...more

like 1 like · see review

Jan 16, 2013 Judy rated it 5 of 5 stars

An Exciting Mystery - A Real Page Turner!

I felt like I was in Shipshewana right there with Callie and her friends Deborah, Melinda, and Esther. Another crime has been committed and of course Callie is right in the middle of it all. Was this latest crime targeted for her instead of the victim? The scary part was Melinda’s son Aaron witnessed it all. Would he be the next target?

The author Vannetta Chapman had me on the edge of my seat for this read. I turned those pages just as fast as my eyes wou...more

like 3 likes · see review

Nov 18, 2012 Digna rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

A suspense filled mystery with a surprisingly unique narritive.

Material Witness is the first book I have ever read in the Amish murder mystery genre. I was surprised by how suspenseful this story turns out to be and how it really kept me on the edge of my seat. Set in the small Amish town of Shipshewana, Indiana. Callie Harper an Englishcher and owner of Daisy's Quilt Shop is the main character in this story. During Shipshewana's largest Fall crafting and community festivals of the year a murder...more A suspense filled mystery with a surprisingly unique narritive.

Material Witness is the first book I have ever read in the Amish murder mystery genre. I was surprised by how suspenseful this story turns out to be and how it really kept me on the edge of my seat. Set in the small Amish town of Shipshewana, Indiana. Callie Harper an Englishcher and owner of Daisy's Quilt Shop is the main character in this story. During Shipshewana's largest Fall crafting and community festivals of the year a murder takes place right outside her shop. This crime is very personal to Callie as the person killed is a rival of hers and the only witness to the crime is a disabled child and son of one of her Amish friends and coworkers. It doesn't take long for Callie to be pulled right into the middle of the mess as she is later targeted by the potential killer. Detective Shane Black is the fortress in the community as he tries to keep everyone safe, especially Callie as he hunts down the killer. Shane and Callie also have a little romance going on, which is a delightful addition to the story.

A refreshing change for me with this story is how the Amish share a bond with the Englishchers within this community. One common theme was the coming together of the Amish community when in need during tragedy or misfortune. The author uses an interesting concept, Amish story book quilts are used in combination with a hidden mystery. The children of the Amish also are very involved in the story and even get themselves into hot water throughout the story. I would recommend this book and series to anyone looking for an exhilarating murder mystery with a mix of Amish and Englishchers and their interactions. This book stands well alone and can be read out of series, it contains a little bit of everything including romance, suspense and action. Chapman's easy to read writing style and unique narrative and perception of the Amish and Englishchers interactions is certainly a nice change from other Amish authors.(less)

like 2 likes · see review

Jul 21, 2012 Kay Defreese rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book is the third in the Sheshewana mystery series and by far the best! One of Callie's competitor's has been murdered outside her quilt shop window. Aaron is a young Amish lad bound to a wheelchair is the only witness. This youngster is the child of one of Callie's dearest Amish friends. Pretty soon it becomes obvious that Callie was the intended victim instead of the older lady when Callie starts receiving threatening phone calls. She nicknames him The Creeper. Not only is her life at sta...more

like 2 likes · see review

Sep 09, 2012 Andrea Norton rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, christian-fiction, christian-romance, mystery, amish

Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman is set in the small Amish community if Shipshewana, Iowa. It is the third book in the Shipshewana Amish Mystery Collection although it is the only book in the collection I have read. I found the book to be worthy as a stand alone novel and had no trouble getting to know the characters. I'm sure reading the first two books in the series would, no doubt, have added more depth to the characters but Mrs. Chapman did a wonderful job of weaving details of the chara...more

like 1 like · see review

Aug 25, 2012 Laura rated it 4 of 5 stars

Title: MATERIAL WITNESS
Author: Vannetta Chapman
Publisher: Zondervan
September 2012
ISBN: 978-0-310-33045-5
Genre: Amish/ mystery

It is the Fall Crafters Fair in Shipshewana, and Callie is running a thriving business at Daisy’s Quilt Shop, the business she inherited when she came up from Texas to attend her aunt’s funeral. But it isn’t even dark when an elderly woman is murdered in her front parking lot, the only clear witness a seven year old Amish boy, and a shop full of customers.

Detective Shane...more

like 1 like · see review

Dec 22, 2012 Carolyn rated it 5 of 5 stars

Another wonderful story from Vannetta Chapman. This is the third book in Chapman's "Shipshewana Amish Mystery" series, and a delightful series it is. I especially enjoyed the involvement of the children in this story, despite the efforts of their parents to keep the children out of harm's way; also enjoyed the part Max, the dog, contributed.

One of the things that makes Amish stories so enjoyable is the way in which the parents involve the children, as much as possible, in all of their activitie...more

like 1 like · see review

Sep 09, 2012 Iola rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, amish, christian-fiction, kindle, mystery-thriller, netgalley

Mrs Knepp, the ornery owner of the one of the two quilt shops in Shipshewana, Indiana, is found dead outside Callie Harper's quilt shop, and the only witnesses are a dog and a disabled seven-year-old boy. Callie soon hears from the murderer, when he drugs her dog, tears up her apartment and threatens to harm the boy if she doesn't turn over the money. It is an obvious case of mistaken identity because she doesn't have 'the money', but can the police find the murderer before he makes good on his...more Mrs Knepp, the ornery owner of the one of the two quilt shops in Shipshewana, Indiana, is found dead outside Callie Harper's quilt shop, and the only witnesses are a dog and a disabled seven-year-old boy. Callie soon hears from the murderer, when he drugs her dog, tears up her apartment and threatens to harm the boy if she doesn't turn over the money. It is an obvious case of mistaken identity because she doesn't have 'the money', but can the police find the murderer before he makes good on his threats?

Meanwhile, Callie and her Amish friends, Deborah, Melinda, and Esther, have received a strange commission in the will of old Mrs Hochstetler: to restore and sell three antique quilts. The quilts are not in traditional Amish patterns, and they seem to present their own mystery to solve.

Material Witness was good, but not as good as the other two books in the series. Although I liked the way the plot lines all came together at the end, the last couple of chapters almost felt a little rushed, as if something had been cut out to make way for the required epilogue that ties up all the loose ends. I think I would rather have had more detail around the puzzle surrounding the quilts, and have left the relationship a little more vague. But the thing I really liked about this series was still present: a positive presentation of mature Amish women, as I am over the teenage Amish romances that have flooded the market in recent years.

I understand that this is the final of Vanetta Chapman’s Shipshewana Mysteries. While I have enjoyed this series, I am pleased for the residents of Shipshe (pop. 563), who might have wanted their small town to retain its name as a well-known shopping destination, not a potential murder capital! However, (fictional) murder in small Amish towns is obviously a trend that is catching on, as I have another book in my review pile from another author that is also set in Shipshewana, so this won’t be the last time I visit (in a literary sense). And I hope that the author will consider writing a similar series in another location, because I do enjoy these mystery novels.

Thanks to Zondervan and NetGalley for providing a free book for review.

This review also appears on my blog, www.christianreads.blogspot.com.(less)

like 1 like · see review

Oct 08, 2012 Tammy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Tammy by: NetGalley

My first thought was that this is not the typical Amish book for me. I have never read an Amish mystery book but this one had me from the beginning. When little Aaron Byler witnesses the killing in the parking lot of Daisy's Quilt Shop while he is waiting on his siblings to return from looking for the lost wallet the mystery begins. This book again shows how the Amish community comes together and I mean not only the Amish. Their English friends come together with them at their time of need. Ther...more

like 1 like · see review

May 02, 2013 Kara rated it 5 of 5 stars

From the first page, this book had me smiling. Another murder has taken place in Shipshewana during The Fall Festival and this time the murderer knows all about Callie and their little town. The murderer claims that Callie has access to a load of money that she knows nothing about and this person is threatening her loved ones. It’s up to Callie, Deborah, Melinda, Esther, their families, and the police department to find out how to stop this murderer without anyone else getting hurt.

It’s difficu...more From the first page, this book had me smiling. Another murder has taken place in Shipshewana during The Fall Festival and this time the murderer knows all about Callie and their little town. The murderer claims that Callie has access to a load of money that she knows nothing about and this person is threatening her loved ones. It’s up to Callie, Deborah, Melinda, Esther, their families, and the police department to find out how to stop this murderer without anyone else getting hurt.

It’s difficult to have sympathy for a man who murders an old woman then attempts to hurt a dog, children, and a police officer. This person is either desperate or extremely dangerous or both!

The reader does not get to witness Callie dumping iced tea on anyone in this book (read the book Falling to Pieces for that wonderful scene), but in Material Witness we get to read about her falling in love which is also unchartered territory for Callie. However, her feisty behavior is enjoyed throughout the book.

Even though there is sweet romance in this story, the most enjoyable part was watching the Amish community, Callie’s friends and their families, band together in unexpected ways to find this killer while keeping Callie and Max safe. This community watches out for their own and even though they are a peaceful bunch, they still take risks in doing the right thing. I was eager to see who Callie falls in love with. Even though it wasn’t the man I had initially hoped it would be, I was very pleased with Callie’s choice and Chapman does an excellent job making this man a perfect match for Callie. One of the characters in the story watched a John Wayne movie so there are several references to that.

This book isn’t a typical page-turner, but it’s a wonderful conclusion to the series and it’s a treat to see how everything gets resolved. I highly recommend it. This book can be considered a stand alone, but my suggestion is to read the other two books before it so the reader will fully understand each relationship and why Callie feels hesitancy about certain things. Chapman does an amazing job describing the friendship Callie experiences with Deborah, Melinda, and Esther but that friendship slowly blossoms from the first book. The next book I will be reading by this author is the ebook, A Simple Amish Christmas.
(less)

like · see review

Feb 27, 2013 Susan Earle rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable mystery series featuring a young, recently widowed woman who inherits her aunt's quilt shop in Shipshewana Indiana, home to the neighbouring Amish. As Callie becomes accustomed to running a quilt shop, she becomes friends with many of the Amish.

In this fourth mystery, Callie finds herself caught up in a mystery involving a supposed hidden treasure. She and her three Amish friends have inherited three quilts from an older women in the community. These quilts are unusual and n...more

like 1 like · see review

Aug 31, 2012 Kaye rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: netgalley, 2012-challenge

In Material Witness, Vannetta Chapman reunites her Amish characters, Deborah, Melinda and Esther with their Englishcher friend, Callie, owner of Daisy's quilt shop. Once again, the four friends have a mystery to solve during the Fall Festival, one of Shipshewana's busiest weekends.

Wheelchair-bound Aaron, Melinda's son, along with Callie's dog, Max, witness a murder just before dusk right outside the quilt shop. Unfortunately, the murderer sees Aaron and Max watching him. The four friends, Aaron...more In Material Witness, Vannetta Chapman reunites her Amish characters, Deborah, Melinda and Esther with their Englishcher friend, Callie, owner of Daisy's quilt shop. Once again, the four friends have a mystery to solve during the Fall Festival, one of Shipshewana's busiest weekends.

Wheelchair-bound Aaron, Melinda's son, along with Callie's dog, Max, witness a murder just before dusk right outside the quilt shop. Unfortunately, the murderer sees Aaron and Max watching him. The four friends, Aaron and his siblings and Callie's romantic interest, investigator Shane Black, try to figure out who the murderer is and if indeed the murderer got his target or was it a case of mistaken identity. Callie may have been the intended victim. It takes a lot of doing but the kids are the ultimate catalyst in solving the mystery.

In her latest, Chapman continues the subplot of romance between Callie and investigator Shane Black. Both Shane and Callie have had some real hurt in their lives but have finally opened up their hearts to love again. The mystery takes center stage in the story but the friendship of the four women and the romance thread adds to the dimension of the story.

Several things I really like about Chapman's writing; the reader can truly feel a sense of place and the characters are well fleshed out with an authentic voice. I like the respect the Amish and the Englischers have for each other in this series. Chapman handles the disabled Aaron's storyline with much sensitivity. The friendship between the four women feels very real to me as do the relationships between husband and wife and parents and children.

Material Witness can easily be read as a stand-alone as the author fills in enough backstory so that the reader is not left missing anything. I did happen to read the first book in the series, truly enjoyed it and look forward to the next one!

Vannetta Chapman can be found at her website and at her facebook page.

Disclosure: A review copy of the book was provided byNetgalley/Zondervan in exchange for my honest opinion.
(less)

like 1 like · see review

Oct 08, 2012 April Suter rated it 5 of 5 stars

Callie cannot believe another murder has taken place and the witness is a young Amish boy. Shane needs to do his job and protect the one who has become very important to him. The Amish believe in grace and forgiveness, and forgiveness is the hardest thing to do is our lives sometimes.

I think Vannetta you need to write a prequel that tells the story of Seth and how Shane was first introduced into this Amish/English community. As you can tell I don't want the series to end.

320 pages

like 1 like · see review

Mar 06, 2013 Karen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: az-challenge, 2013-shelf

She is one of my favorite authors. I hope this series continues on and on. I would continue to read if storyline based on a fun mystery to solve that did not involve murder. The characters are enduring and I love Max the dog. The books are hard to put down they are well written. Thanks for using Bible verses and the faith of God.

like 1 like · see review

Sep 17, 2012 Sara rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

I enjoyed the first two books in this Shipshewana Amish series – "Falling to Pieces" and "A Perfect Square" – so I was looking forward to returning to the characters and the setting of "Material Witness."

And it did not disappoint.

While I still think my favorite over all was A Perfect Square, since we got to see both sides of the story, this one was still really good. The characters were interesting, the writing was excellent, and the mystery was intricate enough to keep my attention through the...more

like 1 like · see review

Feb 05, 2013 Susan rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is the 3rd in the series and I enjoyed it as much as the first two. I believe this is the last in the series and am sad to see it end. It was a great read. I love the interaction between the Amish friends and Callie in this series. The suspense and romance were wonderful as well.

like 2 likes · see review

title link	preview: Material Witness
avg rating	preview: Material Witness Goodreads rating: 4.26 (114 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13700238-material-witness?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1350070693l/13700238.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13700238-material-witness?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Material Witness by Vannetta Chapman[/url]

Material Witness (Shipshewana Amish Mystery #3)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (3)

Genres

About Vannetta Chapman

Books by Vannetta Chapman

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Material Witness

Material Witness (Shipshewana Amish Mystery #3)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topicDiscuss This Book

combineOther Editions (3)

Genres

About Vannetta Chapman

Books by Vannetta Chapman

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About Material Witness

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (3)