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Kate Burkholder #4.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8.5, 9.5, 10.5
A Simple Murder
New York Times bestselling author Linda Castillo is known as a “master of the genre” (People) for her pulse-pounding mystery series set in Amish country. Now, together for the first time in print, A Simple Murder features six original short stories starring whip-smart chief of police, Kate Burkholder.While on vacation with her partner John Tomasetti in LONG LOST, Kate discovers that the old house where they're staying is haunted by a girl who disappeared decades before... An abandoned baby is discovered on the Amish bishop's front porch in A HIDDEN SECRET, and Kate is called in to investigate. SEEDS OF DECEPTION unearths the secrets of Kate Burkholder's own Amish past—and lays the groundwork for her future career in law enforcement.In the midst of a power outage in Painters Mill, a teenage girl is attacked at an Amish party in ONLY THE LUCKY.IN DARK COMPANY is the story of an injured woman with amnesia who seeks Kate's help in trying to remember her attacker’s identity...and her own.IN PLAIN SIGHT leads Kate to what she believes is a straightforward hit-and-run accident—but she soon uncovers a story of teenage passion that may have led to attempted murder.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2021
474 people are currently reading
1422 people want to read
About the author
Linda Castillo
97 books6,511 followersLinda Castillo is the author of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling Kate Burkholder mystery series, set in the world of the Amish. The first book, Sworn to Silence, was adapted into a Lifetime original movie titled An Amish Murder starring Neve Campbell as Kate Burkholder. Castillo is the recipient of numerous industry awards including a nomination by the International Thriller Writers for Best Hardcover, a nomination for the Mystery Writers of America’s Sue Grafton Memorial Award, and a nomination for an “Audie Award” for best mystery audiobook. Her work has appeared on numerous bestseller lists and earned a spot on the Boston Globe’s shortlist for best crime novel.
In addition to writing, Castillo’s other passion is horses. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, three Appaloosas, and two feisty, but loveable Blue Heelers.
She loves hearing from readers. Contact her at books@lindacastillo.com.
In addition to writing, Castillo’s other passion is horses. She lives on a ranch in Texas with her husband, three Appaloosas, and two feisty, but loveable Blue Heelers.
She loves hearing from readers. Contact her at books@lindacastillo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 332 reviews
March 4, 2021
A collection of short stories featuring my favorite character/series!
I had to laugh at myself just a little. When I requested this book all I saw was that it was a new release from Linda Castillo. I had no idea it wasn’t a full length novel!
Though I’m not a huge fan of short stories, how could I resist diving back into the life of Kate Burkholder, Chief of Police at Painters Mill, to see what she was up to.
There are six short stories included in this book. And I have to say I enjoyed every one of them though I was always left wanting more. Maybe another 200 pages to each story😂. Then I could enjoy 6 new full length books. I’m not asking too much here…am I?🤷🏻♀️
I do have Linda Castillo’s next release Fallen on my shelf and cannot wait to dive into it!
If you are a fan of the series and enjoy short stories don’t miss out!
A buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an ARC to read and review.
I had to laugh at myself just a little. When I requested this book all I saw was that it was a new release from Linda Castillo. I had no idea it wasn’t a full length novel!
Though I’m not a huge fan of short stories, how could I resist diving back into the life of Kate Burkholder, Chief of Police at Painters Mill, to see what she was up to.
There are six short stories included in this book. And I have to say I enjoyed every one of them though I was always left wanting more. Maybe another 200 pages to each story😂. Then I could enjoy 6 new full length books. I’m not asking too much here…am I?🤷🏻♀️
I do have Linda Castillo’s next release Fallen on my shelf and cannot wait to dive into it!
If you are a fan of the series and enjoy short stories don’t miss out!
A buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an ARC to read and review.
March 5, 2021
Review also published on blog: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
A Collection of Short Stories involving Kate Burkholder? Sign me up!
If only they had delivered as much as I’d hoped. Herein lies my problem with short stories - I’m often let wanting more and such was the case with most of the stories in “A Simple Murder” the collection by Linda Castillo.
Of the stories featured here, a few pulled me in. They were:
Long Lost: Here, Kate Burkholder and her partner John Tomasseti go away to a B&B for a long weekend only to discover that the town is embroiled in the case of a woman who went missing a few months prior. Though it’s not their jurisdiction, the two can’t help but dig around.
A Hidden Secret: The case of a newborn baby being left on the doorstep of the bishop’s house leads Burkholder and Tomasetti to investigate and well, gives the readers a lot to hope for.
In Plain Sight: In this well done short story, a young amish man is on the wrong end of a hit and run accident. The question, of course, is why. Brilliantly plotted, concise and well executed, if only all of the stories in this collection ended this perfectly, I would have been all in.
Truth be told, I was quite disappointed in this collection. I love Kate Burkholder. Her series is near and dear to my heart, but throughout this I just felt as though these stories were missing something and that they weren’t truly fleshed out enough. I am however an ardent fan of this series and the author and can’t wait to dive into her next full length novel “Fallen” which I have on my NetGalley shelf ready to read.
This was another buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to NetGalley, Minotaur Books and Linda Castillo for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter on 3.4.21
A Collection of Short Stories involving Kate Burkholder? Sign me up!
If only they had delivered as much as I’d hoped. Herein lies my problem with short stories - I’m often let wanting more and such was the case with most of the stories in “A Simple Murder” the collection by Linda Castillo.
Of the stories featured here, a few pulled me in. They were:
Long Lost: Here, Kate Burkholder and her partner John Tomasseti go away to a B&B for a long weekend only to discover that the town is embroiled in the case of a woman who went missing a few months prior. Though it’s not their jurisdiction, the two can’t help but dig around.
A Hidden Secret: The case of a newborn baby being left on the doorstep of the bishop’s house leads Burkholder and Tomasetti to investigate and well, gives the readers a lot to hope for.
In Plain Sight: In this well done short story, a young amish man is on the wrong end of a hit and run accident. The question, of course, is why. Brilliantly plotted, concise and well executed, if only all of the stories in this collection ended this perfectly, I would have been all in.
Truth be told, I was quite disappointed in this collection. I love Kate Burkholder. Her series is near and dear to my heart, but throughout this I just felt as though these stories were missing something and that they weren’t truly fleshed out enough. I am however an ardent fan of this series and the author and can’t wait to dive into her next full length novel “Fallen” which I have on my NetGalley shelf ready to read.
This was another buddy read with Kaceey.
Thank you to NetGalley, Minotaur Books and Linda Castillo for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter on 3.4.21
November 1, 2021
Rating: 4.5 rounded up to 5 Stars
All six short stories each have a book description and a mini review on my website at:
https://avonnalovesgenres.com/feature...
All six short stories each have a book description and a mini review on my website at:
https://avonnalovesgenres.com/feature...
April 12, 2022
I’m reading the series in order and will post reviews for each story as I complete them.
Long Lost #4.5
Kate Burkholder and John Tomasetti decide to get away for some extended time together at a bed & breakfast not far out of town. They get drawn into a local unsolved mystery involving the disappearance of young woman more than twenty years ago. Despite their best efforts to ignore the urge, both end up conducting an unofficial investigation.
This story accomplished two things: an opportunity for Kate and John to focus on their relationship and a chance to work as a team to solve a case. It’s short but managed to be highly entertaining. I had the great fortune of listening to it, which was even better with Kathleen McInerny narrating. The novellas aren’t a favorite format but this was a nice interlude, minus the usual murder and mayhem.
A Hidden Secret #6.5
Bishop Troyer wakens to a mewling sound on his front steps slightly before dawn and suspected the source even before he opens the door. It’s an infant, apparently only hours old, and he glimpses the silhouette of someone running away amidst the shadows. Since the baby is swathed in an Amish blanket, he suspects the baby is an Amish child. He calls Police Chief Kate Burkholder who brings Agent John Tomasetti with her to begin their investigation and try to locate the mother.
This is a bittersweet gem of a story. Absent the normal gruesome murders we’re accustomed to in this series, the search to find the baby’s parents leads to heartache, triumph and joy. The outcome was lovely despite the tattered emotional path to get there. It’s a very short story but long on emotion and character. I loved listening to it as Kathleen McInerney delivered a subtle and understated performance. It was a nice change of pace.
Seeds of Deception #7.5
We go back in time when Kate Burkholder was 14-years old, living Amish in Painter’s Mill. She and brother Jacob are picking apples in Zimmerman’s Orchard when her best friend Mattie Erb shows up to help. Soon after, while Jacob is elsewhere in the Orchard, they’re joined by Billy Marquardt and his buddies, all Englishers. Kate keeps her distance but the daring Mattie goes off into the barn with Billy.
We first meet Mattie in Her Last Breath and this short story provides some much needed background to help understand how Kate missed so much about her best friend. The events following Mattie’s entry into that barn offers a prescient view of the woman she would later become and a little bit why Kate may have been blind to her behavior. And, we get some insight into the seeds that were sown that caused Kate to eventually pursue a career in law enforcement. As always, Kathleen McInerney delivered another solid narration performance. I very much enjoyed this small peek into Kate’s past.
Only the Lucky #8.5
Police Chief Kate Burkholder and her team have their hands full on Friday the 13th in Painter’s Mill. There’s a massive power outage caused by a traffic accident and a full blown Amish teen party brewing that threatens to be rife with underage drinking on remote private property. When Kate arrives, she finds a young Amish girl in the barn who’s been brutally assaulted with a 2 by 4.
I enjoy the police procedural aspects of this series and though this story is short, the investigation was thorough and interesting. I had my suspicions early and even though I guessed correctly, I liked having it supported by the clues and Kate’s dogged pursuit. I also listened to the story because the narrator has become the voice of this series and continues to get everything right.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
In Dark Company #9.5
Police Chief Kate Burkholder is called to the home of an Amish dairy farmer in the middle of the night when a young woman shows up at their home, battered and bruised. She also has no memory but is filled with terror, undefined but it involves someone chasing her meaning harm. It’s now up to Kate to help figure out what happened to the woman and her identity.
I love how this series seems to master the short story, setting up and solving an interesting mystery while delivering strong procedurals and excitement. Throughout the story, I went back and forth as to whether or not “Jane Doe” was truly having memory issues or faking it. It took me up to the reveal to determine that answer. And, yes, it had another dangerous moment for our fearless police chief and the author actually addressed that issue in the story! Finally, I was able to listen to this one because of the audio bundle of all the short stories! The narrator has solidified her place as the wonderful voice of the series in my head and she continued that here. I enjoyed this one, very much so.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
In Plain Sight #10.5
Noah Kline, a 17-year old Amish boy, is walking home after spending the evening with his English girlfriend when he’s deliberately and viciously struck by a car and left in a field. When he’s discovered the next day, Police Chief Kate Burkholder doesn’t know if it’s a simple hit and run or something more.
I have to now admit that the short stories in this series have become favorites. In just a short amount of time we get the crime, array of suspects, the procedurals to solve the case and an exciting resolution. That’s hard to do well in a full length novel yet it’s done so compellingly here. I wasn’t certain about the whodunit until the real, which coincided with the discovery of key clues. Since more details would be spoilerish, I’ll just stop there. Listening to the story added to my enjoyment as the narrator is my voice of the series in such a good way. Nice little mystery with a strong theme to add to the mix.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Long Lost #4.5
Kate Burkholder and John Tomasetti decide to get away for some extended time together at a bed & breakfast not far out of town. They get drawn into a local unsolved mystery involving the disappearance of young woman more than twenty years ago. Despite their best efforts to ignore the urge, both end up conducting an unofficial investigation.
This story accomplished two things: an opportunity for Kate and John to focus on their relationship and a chance to work as a team to solve a case. It’s short but managed to be highly entertaining. I had the great fortune of listening to it, which was even better with Kathleen McInerny narrating. The novellas aren’t a favorite format but this was a nice interlude, minus the usual murder and mayhem.
A Hidden Secret #6.5
Bishop Troyer wakens to a mewling sound on his front steps slightly before dawn and suspected the source even before he opens the door. It’s an infant, apparently only hours old, and he glimpses the silhouette of someone running away amidst the shadows. Since the baby is swathed in an Amish blanket, he suspects the baby is an Amish child. He calls Police Chief Kate Burkholder who brings Agent John Tomasetti with her to begin their investigation and try to locate the mother.
This is a bittersweet gem of a story. Absent the normal gruesome murders we’re accustomed to in this series, the search to find the baby’s parents leads to heartache, triumph and joy. The outcome was lovely despite the tattered emotional path to get there. It’s a very short story but long on emotion and character. I loved listening to it as Kathleen McInerney delivered a subtle and understated performance. It was a nice change of pace.
Seeds of Deception #7.5
We go back in time when Kate Burkholder was 14-years old, living Amish in Painter’s Mill. She and brother Jacob are picking apples in Zimmerman’s Orchard when her best friend Mattie Erb shows up to help. Soon after, while Jacob is elsewhere in the Orchard, they’re joined by Billy Marquardt and his buddies, all Englishers. Kate keeps her distance but the daring Mattie goes off into the barn with Billy.
We first meet Mattie in Her Last Breath and this short story provides some much needed background to help understand how Kate missed so much about her best friend. The events following Mattie’s entry into that barn offers a prescient view of the woman she would later become and a little bit why Kate may have been blind to her behavior. And, we get some insight into the seeds that were sown that caused Kate to eventually pursue a career in law enforcement. As always, Kathleen McInerney delivered another solid narration performance. I very much enjoyed this small peek into Kate’s past.
Only the Lucky #8.5
Police Chief Kate Burkholder and her team have their hands full on Friday the 13th in Painter’s Mill. There’s a massive power outage caused by a traffic accident and a full blown Amish teen party brewing that threatens to be rife with underage drinking on remote private property. When Kate arrives, she finds a young Amish girl in the barn who’s been brutally assaulted with a 2 by 4.
I enjoy the police procedural aspects of this series and though this story is short, the investigation was thorough and interesting. I had my suspicions early and even though I guessed correctly, I liked having it supported by the clues and Kate’s dogged pursuit. I also listened to the story because the narrator has become the voice of this series and continues to get everything right.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
In Dark Company #9.5
Police Chief Kate Burkholder is called to the home of an Amish dairy farmer in the middle of the night when a young woman shows up at their home, battered and bruised. She also has no memory but is filled with terror, undefined but it involves someone chasing her meaning harm. It’s now up to Kate to help figure out what happened to the woman and her identity.
I love how this series seems to master the short story, setting up and solving an interesting mystery while delivering strong procedurals and excitement. Throughout the story, I went back and forth as to whether or not “Jane Doe” was truly having memory issues or faking it. It took me up to the reveal to determine that answer. And, yes, it had another dangerous moment for our fearless police chief and the author actually addressed that issue in the story! Finally, I was able to listen to this one because of the audio bundle of all the short stories! The narrator has solidified her place as the wonderful voice of the series in my head and she continued that here. I enjoyed this one, very much so.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
In Plain Sight #10.5
Noah Kline, a 17-year old Amish boy, is walking home after spending the evening with his English girlfriend when he’s deliberately and viciously struck by a car and left in a field. When he’s discovered the next day, Police Chief Kate Burkholder doesn’t know if it’s a simple hit and run or something more.
I have to now admit that the short stories in this series have become favorites. In just a short amount of time we get the crime, array of suspects, the procedurals to solve the case and an exciting resolution. That’s hard to do well in a full length novel yet it’s done so compellingly here. I wasn’t certain about the whodunit until the real, which coincided with the discovery of key clues. Since more details would be spoilerish, I’ll just stop there. Listening to the story added to my enjoyment as the narrator is my voice of the series in such a good way. Nice little mystery with a strong theme to add to the mix.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
January 1, 2021
5 murderous stars
My favorite way to wrap up 2020 is reading some Linda Castillo! Normally, I’m not a fan of short stories, but in this case, I so love this character that I truly enjoy these stories!
These six stories feature Kate Burkholder and her partner in crime (and the bedroom) John Tomasetti.
I usually say that I want more romance for Kate and John and the first story offers just that. In “Long Lost” the couple gets away to a romantic B&B but of course investigate a missing person case!
“A Hidden Secret” is all about an abandoned newborn and I’m secretly hoping that there might be marriage and a baby in Kate’s future.
I really enjoyed “Seeds of Deception” as it went into Kate’s past and explored some time from her Amish upbringing.
During an Amish party, a young girl is attacked, and Kate is called in to investigate. “Only the Lucky” is a story filled with jealousy.
Trauma can bring about amnesia and that’s just the case “In Dark Company” with a woman who can’t remember who she is or what happened.
The final short story, “In Plain Sight”, a hit-and-run investigation turns out to be more complex that it seemed at first.
Overall, I love these short stories that build the character of Kate Burkholder. I have read all 12 books in this series and I count this character as one of my all-time favorites. Can’t wait to read the next full-length book, but in the meantime, these short stories gave me great satisfaction!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur for the complimentary copy to read and review.
My favorite way to wrap up 2020 is reading some Linda Castillo! Normally, I’m not a fan of short stories, but in this case, I so love this character that I truly enjoy these stories!
These six stories feature Kate Burkholder and her partner in crime (and the bedroom) John Tomasetti.
I usually say that I want more romance for Kate and John and the first story offers just that. In “Long Lost” the couple gets away to a romantic B&B but of course investigate a missing person case!
“A Hidden Secret” is all about an abandoned newborn and I’m secretly hoping that there might be marriage and a baby in Kate’s future.
I really enjoyed “Seeds of Deception” as it went into Kate’s past and explored some time from her Amish upbringing.
During an Amish party, a young girl is attacked, and Kate is called in to investigate. “Only the Lucky” is a story filled with jealousy.
Trauma can bring about amnesia and that’s just the case “In Dark Company” with a woman who can’t remember who she is or what happened.
The final short story, “In Plain Sight”, a hit-and-run investigation turns out to be more complex that it seemed at first.
Overall, I love these short stories that build the character of Kate Burkholder. I have read all 12 books in this series and I count this character as one of my all-time favorites. Can’t wait to read the next full-length book, but in the meantime, these short stories gave me great satisfaction!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur for the complimentary copy to read and review.
March 13, 2021
When I saw this on Overdrive I instantly put a hold for a copy without reading the description. Thankfully, when I came to Goodreads to add to my TBR, it was clear this is collection of 6 novellas. GR is the best, one glance and you'd know which order the book is. That being said, I have already read five of six in this collection.
IN DARK COMPANY (#9.5) Chief of Police Kate Burkholder of Painters Mill, Ohio helps a young lady with amnesia recalls her identity and who was trying to kill her. I'm not familiar with Hutterites so this little book was an interesting read and a good novella mystery.
IN DARK COMPANY (#9.5) Chief of Police Kate Burkholder of Painters Mill, Ohio helps a young lady with amnesia recalls her identity and who was trying to kill her. I'm not familiar with Hutterites so this little book was an interesting read and a good novella mystery.
June 28, 2023
If you are familiar with the Kate Burkholder series, you will love this short story collection.
If you aren’t familiar with this series, you may enjoy this short story collection as a simple introduction to her characters.
Either way, you have an opportunity to meet Kate the Chief of Police of Painters Mill in Ohio, and the love of her life, John Tomasseti, who is also in law enforcement.
The author’s strengths are in the development of the plot, and her depiction of the Amish lifestyle.
Although, most stories were mostly predictable, it was an easy cozy mystery read.
If you aren’t familiar with this series, you may enjoy this short story collection as a simple introduction to her characters.
Either way, you have an opportunity to meet Kate the Chief of Police of Painters Mill in Ohio, and the love of her life, John Tomasseti, who is also in law enforcement.
The author’s strengths are in the development of the plot, and her depiction of the Amish lifestyle.
Although, most stories were mostly predictable, it was an easy cozy mystery read.
April 3, 2022
A collection of short stories which fit throughout the Kate Burkholder series, I finished the last in the book this morning (3/4/22). With Linda Castillo's usual aplomb, I can't fault any of these - I just wish there were more in the book! A series that I'm thoroughly enjoying, this book is worth the purchase to give the readers these added short stories. Recommended.
April 28, 2022
It was fun having A Simple Murder to read while waiting patiently (or would that be IMpatiently?) for Fallen to be released. This is a set of six short stories, taking place at different times during Kate's life. My favorites: In Dark Company, Only the Lucky, and A Hidden Secret. My least favorite: Seeds of Deception.
I have enjoyed the Kate Burkholder series so, so much! Even with these short stories, it's fascinating to read about the Amish lifestyle. Okay. Now back to waiting...
I have enjoyed the Kate Burkholder series so, so much! Even with these short stories, it's fascinating to read about the Amish lifestyle. Okay. Now back to waiting...
June 2, 2021
Long Lost
5 Stars
VERY quick read but I still enjoyed it. The ending was mostly predictable. I like a happy ending!
A Hidden Secret
5 Stars
I kind of wish this one was a full length novel. There wasn't a big murder mystery to it, but I still think the author could do so much with this novella!
Seeds of Deception
5 Stars
Listened to this one tonight. Short story from Kate Burkholder's youth. It kind of shows her first "case".
Only the Lucky
5 Stars
Short case for Kate to solve in her Amish town. The perp was easy to guess but I love any return to Painter's Mill!
In Dark Company
5 Stars
Another good in-between for this series! Reading these out of order is making me want to go back and read all of these again!
In Plain Sight
5 Stars
I feel like this one was a little similar to her other short story (with finding out whodunit) but still a good story to hold me over until I get the next one!!
5 Stars
VERY quick read but I still enjoyed it. The ending was mostly predictable. I like a happy ending!
A Hidden Secret
5 Stars
I kind of wish this one was a full length novel. There wasn't a big murder mystery to it, but I still think the author could do so much with this novella!
Seeds of Deception
5 Stars
Listened to this one tonight. Short story from Kate Burkholder's youth. It kind of shows her first "case".
Only the Lucky
5 Stars
Short case for Kate to solve in her Amish town. The perp was easy to guess but I love any return to Painter's Mill!
In Dark Company
5 Stars
Another good in-between for this series! Reading these out of order is making me want to go back and read all of these again!
In Plain Sight
5 Stars
I feel like this one was a little similar to her other short story (with finding out whodunit) but still a good story to hold me over until I get the next one!!
February 20, 2021
Six short stories / novellas--most in the 60-70 page range--featuring Kate Burkholder. They're all pretty good. IMHO, none is outstanding, but none is a unworthy of a read. I agree with those reviewers who prefer full-length Burkholder novels, but I wouldn't say that she can't write shorter-form fiction.
In fact, after writing a dozen Burkholder books, Castillo probably needs a break from pumping out the next one (due next fall). I've given all Castillo's novels four- or five-star ratings--I really do like them, and think she's good at plotting and has some great characters--but if I had a complaint, it's that the Amish people she's writing about seem to attratct violence and vengeance. I realize that's Castillo's schtick--murder in Amish country!--but some of these stories feel like maybe she had an idea, and then realized there wasn't enough there to support a full-length novel.
Many series writers experiment with new series or standalones. If Castillo wants shorter-form novellas to serve as palate cleanser, hey, I'll read 'em.
In fact, after writing a dozen Burkholder books, Castillo probably needs a break from pumping out the next one (due next fall). I've given all Castillo's novels four- or five-star ratings--I really do like them, and think she's good at plotting and has some great characters--but if I had a complaint, it's that the Amish people she's writing about seem to attratct violence and vengeance. I realize that's Castillo's schtick--murder in Amish country!--but some of these stories feel like maybe she had an idea, and then realized there wasn't enough there to support a full-length novel.
Many series writers experiment with new series or standalones. If Castillo wants shorter-form novellas to serve as palate cleanser, hey, I'll read 'em.
April 26, 2021
Five previously published short stories make up A Simple Murder: A Kate Burkholder Short Story Collection by Linda Castillo. Published in 2013 to 2019, each short story was released at that time as a marketing effort to draw attention to the new book that would soon follow. Such is the case here as there is a short excerpt from the upcoming novel, Fallen, which is to be released this summer.
The book opens with “Long Lost” published in 2013 when the romance between Kate Burkholder and John Tomasetti is new. Tomasetti is a state agent and Kate Burkholder is the Chief of Police of Painter's Mill, Ohio. They are their first weekend getaway about an hour from her home. They are at a bed-and-breakfast owned and operated by Harley and Fannie Hilty. They also soon become interested in the disappearance of Angela Blaine who vanished many years prior to their arrival.
Next is “A Hidden Secret” where a newborn is left in a laundry basket at the front door of the home of Bishop Troyer. Leaving the child wrapped in an Amish quilt and with an Amish rattle, as well as a being left on the Bishop's porch, all indications are is that the newborn is the hours old child of a local resident. After the baby is checked out at the local hospital and under care, Chief Burkholder needs to identify and locate the parents. Especially the mother who probably gave birth alone and may need urgent medical care.
Next up is “Seeds of Deception” which takes readers back to a time in Kate Burkholder's complicated childhood. As the tale begins, she is fourteen and her mom wants her to go pick apples with her older brother Jacob. She is already in trouble because her mom caught her reading a mystery novel the other night using a flashlight under the covers. it should have been a quiet and boring day at Zimmerman's orchard. It isn't at all.
It is a Friday evening in the spring and things are unusually quiet in “Only the Lucky.” Chief of Police Kate Burkholder had no idea that there is about to be a major party underway until local Amish farmer Aaron Yonder comes to tell her. She has known Aaron since they were kids and she knows that he does not come to see her easily. The fact that it is Friday the 13th does not help matters. Nor does a murder.
Before dawn wake up calls happen a lot in the novels and they happen here too “In Dark Company” where a four in the morning phone call gets things rolling for Chief of Police Kate Burkholder. A woman has arrived at a residence in the surrounding rural area. It is clear that she has been assaulted and she is terrified. What isn’t clear is who did it, what happened to her, and the identity of the suspect or suspects. The case is going to be difficult as the woman seems to have no memory of what happened and does not even know her name.
The final short story is the 2019 published, “In Plain Sight.” Orin Schlabach's dog would not be silent that morning. Jojo kept barking nearly nonstop at something out in the field. When the 78-year-old man got out there, he realized that Noah Kline is in the field unconscious and barely alive. It is a heck of a way to start a Sunday morning and Chief of Police Kate Burkholder is going to have her hands full.
The book concludes with what is billed as Chapter 1 of Fallen. Unfortunately, it is a prologue and has nothing at all to really interest the reader as the short section is entirely too vague. The sis pages here could be applied to any book in this series or pretty much any mystery by any author anywhere. As a preview of the coming book, the section misses the mark massively and serves absolutely no purpose for the book that is coming out in early July.
All in all, the actual stories in this collection are good ones. For readers who are not already familiar with them, they are a nice slice of the Kate Burkholder world. They also serve as a nice introduction for readers unfamiliar with the world that began many years ago with Sworn to Silence. Whether, when each short story is about $1.99 or less on their own in eBook format, a hardback print collection priced at $30.99 makes sense, I leave it to the reader to determine.
For another look at the book, make sure to read Lesa Holstine’s review from last February here.
A Simple Murder: A Kate Burkholder Short Story Collection
Linda Castillo
https://www.lindacastillo.com/
Minotaur Books
https://us.macmillan.com/books/978125...
February 2021
ISBN# 978-1-250-81968-0
Hardback (audio, eBook, and mass market paperback formats also available)
416 Pages
Material supplied by the good folks of the Dallas Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2021
The book opens with “Long Lost” published in 2013 when the romance between Kate Burkholder and John Tomasetti is new. Tomasetti is a state agent and Kate Burkholder is the Chief of Police of Painter's Mill, Ohio. They are their first weekend getaway about an hour from her home. They are at a bed-and-breakfast owned and operated by Harley and Fannie Hilty. They also soon become interested in the disappearance of Angela Blaine who vanished many years prior to their arrival.
Next is “A Hidden Secret” where a newborn is left in a laundry basket at the front door of the home of Bishop Troyer. Leaving the child wrapped in an Amish quilt and with an Amish rattle, as well as a being left on the Bishop's porch, all indications are is that the newborn is the hours old child of a local resident. After the baby is checked out at the local hospital and under care, Chief Burkholder needs to identify and locate the parents. Especially the mother who probably gave birth alone and may need urgent medical care.
Next up is “Seeds of Deception” which takes readers back to a time in Kate Burkholder's complicated childhood. As the tale begins, she is fourteen and her mom wants her to go pick apples with her older brother Jacob. She is already in trouble because her mom caught her reading a mystery novel the other night using a flashlight under the covers. it should have been a quiet and boring day at Zimmerman's orchard. It isn't at all.
It is a Friday evening in the spring and things are unusually quiet in “Only the Lucky.” Chief of Police Kate Burkholder had no idea that there is about to be a major party underway until local Amish farmer Aaron Yonder comes to tell her. She has known Aaron since they were kids and she knows that he does not come to see her easily. The fact that it is Friday the 13th does not help matters. Nor does a murder.
Before dawn wake up calls happen a lot in the novels and they happen here too “In Dark Company” where a four in the morning phone call gets things rolling for Chief of Police Kate Burkholder. A woman has arrived at a residence in the surrounding rural area. It is clear that she has been assaulted and she is terrified. What isn’t clear is who did it, what happened to her, and the identity of the suspect or suspects. The case is going to be difficult as the woman seems to have no memory of what happened and does not even know her name.
The final short story is the 2019 published, “In Plain Sight.” Orin Schlabach's dog would not be silent that morning. Jojo kept barking nearly nonstop at something out in the field. When the 78-year-old man got out there, he realized that Noah Kline is in the field unconscious and barely alive. It is a heck of a way to start a Sunday morning and Chief of Police Kate Burkholder is going to have her hands full.
The book concludes with what is billed as Chapter 1 of Fallen. Unfortunately, it is a prologue and has nothing at all to really interest the reader as the short section is entirely too vague. The sis pages here could be applied to any book in this series or pretty much any mystery by any author anywhere. As a preview of the coming book, the section misses the mark massively and serves absolutely no purpose for the book that is coming out in early July.
All in all, the actual stories in this collection are good ones. For readers who are not already familiar with them, they are a nice slice of the Kate Burkholder world. They also serve as a nice introduction for readers unfamiliar with the world that began many years ago with Sworn to Silence. Whether, when each short story is about $1.99 or less on their own in eBook format, a hardback print collection priced at $30.99 makes sense, I leave it to the reader to determine.
For another look at the book, make sure to read Lesa Holstine’s review from last February here.
A Simple Murder: A Kate Burkholder Short Story Collection
Linda Castillo
https://www.lindacastillo.com/
Minotaur Books
https://us.macmillan.com/books/978125...
February 2021
ISBN# 978-1-250-81968-0
Hardback (audio, eBook, and mass market paperback formats also available)
416 Pages
Material supplied by the good folks of the Dallas Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2021
April 9, 2021
These short stories have been published before. I have them all in e-book. I've HOPED that they would eventually be together in a physical book. I'm so happy.
I love the short stories that build anticipation for the next full-length book. I've read the books by Ms. Castillo more than once, but often felt I'd like to read the short stories in one sitting. Now I can.
A wonderful series and these little vignettes are great.
I love the short stories that build anticipation for the next full-length book. I've read the books by Ms. Castillo more than once, but often felt I'd like to read the short stories in one sitting. Now I can.
A wonderful series and these little vignettes are great.
May 17, 2022
This is a collection of short stories in the Kate Burkholder series. I don't spend a lot of time reading short stories. They are not my favorite but I liked this collection...and better yet, I liked every story as well. Some of the stories sounded a little familiar but I enjoyed the way the author developed these shorts. They fit nicely in their allotted space.
Plus, I liked the MCs and the other regular characters. They offered a needed anchor of familiarity. So 4 stars for this one.
Plus, I liked the MCs and the other regular characters. They offered a needed anchor of familiarity. So 4 stars for this one.
March 15, 2021
It was really fun reading short stories about one of my favorite characters.
November 11, 2022
I have slowly been reading this collection of short stories featuring the amazing Kate Burkholder. I think I enjoy the full books more than the novellas. Still, can’t stop this overall series from being one of my favorite mystery/thriller series of all times.
April 15, 2024
Several Kate Burkholder short stories. Uneven.
August 19, 2021
If you're a fan of Linda Castillo's Amish cop series, then you ought to like this collection of six short stories that feature Painters Mill Chief Kate Burkholder. One story even features a young Kate when she was still in the Amish life and an incident that contributed to her getting into law enforcement.
The stories were somewhat predictable and easy to figure out if they were mysteries. But what can you do in 50- to 60-page stories? There's not a lot of room for putting in red herrings and misdirections in any investigations. So, Castillo does a nice job in leading the reader through the quick tales.
Apparently, one of the main jobs as the Painters Mill chief is to call ambulances. Notice how many times Burkholder summons ambulances in these stories. Buggy in the ditch? Call an ambulance. Girl beaten with a 2x4? Get an ambulance rolling. Report of a car crash that turns out fictitious? Best get that ambulance in route. Amish guy hit by a car? Well... you know what to do.
The stories were somewhat predictable and easy to figure out if they were mysteries. But what can you do in 50- to 60-page stories? There's not a lot of room for putting in red herrings and misdirections in any investigations. So, Castillo does a nice job in leading the reader through the quick tales.
Apparently, one of the main jobs as the Painters Mill chief is to call ambulances. Notice how many times Burkholder summons ambulances in these stories. Buggy in the ditch? Call an ambulance. Girl beaten with a 2x4? Get an ambulance rolling. Report of a car crash that turns out fictitious? Best get that ambulance in route. Amish guy hit by a car? Well... you know what to do.
February 24, 2021
A Simple Murder is a compilation of short stories by Linda Castillo. Each of the stories focuses on Kate Burkholder and solving a crime in the Painted Mills area. Kate who was born in the Amish life and left eventually moving back in the police chief’s role. Her significant other, John Tomasetti is also in law enforcement and is a huge support for her. The stories following missing people, crimes of passion, foundling babies and other crimes. Each story has a beginning, middle and an end, where the mystery was solved.
A Simple Murder contained some of the short stories I have read previously, but they were nice to read again. A couple of them were new and were fun reads. A Simple Murder by Linda Castillo was a good read.
A Simple Murder contained some of the short stories I have read previously, but they were nice to read again. A couple of them were new and were fun reads. A Simple Murder by Linda Castillo was a good read.
March 29, 2021
3 STARS. A new concept for a familiar character, but I would rather have a whole story arc than a bunch of short stories.
March 6, 2022
TITLE: A SIMPLE MURDER
RATING: 3.5-4.0 Stars
AUTHOR: Linda Castillo
RELEASE DATE: 2/9/2021
GENRE: Mystery/Thriller
THEMES: Amish, Retribution
SERIES: Kate Burkholder
NARRATOR: Kathleen McInerney
LENGTH: 10:09:22
A collection of short stories and a great place to start if you are new to the series. I’m not a huge fan of short stories, only I like this series so much that I would be remiss not to read it. The narrator is the one that (so far) has narrated all in this series, and does an excellent job. Recommend this book.
February 14, 2021
This is probably closer to 2 1/2 but, since I normally really like Castillo’s books, I went with three.
This was a collection of short stories, all of which were very predictable and guessing “who did it” wasn’t even a challenge. Not even close to the books in the regular series.
This was a collection of short stories, all of which were very predictable and guessing “who did it” wasn’t even a challenge. Not even close to the books in the regular series.
February 28, 2021
To me a few stories could've been better. I liked it over all. Hope she does this again with other short stories. I like having in book form. It now is a complete series since the ebooks are now actual book form. Hope she goes on and on with this series. It is my all time favorite series.
February 27, 2021
I'm not a short story fan but I liked these and enjoyed being back with the familiar setting and characters of Kate Burkholder's world.
February 12, 2021
This is an anthology compiling a number of short vignettes in the Kate Burkholder series. It is not necessary to read these stories to follow the main books in the series.
Below are my reviews of each of these stories:
LONG LOST
FINAL DECISION: This was a nice little novella. There was a mystery, but it was a simple one without much drama or thrill. For me, the best part was the relationship between Kate and John and their inability to relax.
THE STORY: Kate Burkholder, a police chief and her lover John Tomasetti are taking a well deserved vacation at a bed and breakfast when a 20 year old mystery of a missing woman tempts them away from their relaxation into investigating what happened.
OPINION: Part of my favorite parts of this series is the interactions between Kate and John. Their dark pasts have made their relationship a rocky one. Here, Kate and John have a chance to relax, but their relationship remains tricky for them so they slide into an investigation rather than dealing with their relationship. For me, that was more interesting than the mystery here.
WORTH MENTIONING: This novella is very short. In my Kindle version, 25% was a preview for another book.
CONNECTED BOOKS: LONG LOST is book 4.5 in the Kate Burkholder series. It can be read as a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 3.5 stars.
A HIDDEN SECRET
FINAL DECISION: A sad solution to a small mystery but with an optimistic ending. I liked this book more for the development of Kate's character and the chance to know how her relationship with John is evolving.
THE STORY: Someone has abandoned a newborn baby and Kate Burkholder comes to investigate. The infant was left with some items which lead Kate to believe that the mother might be Amish. With the help of her lover John Tomasetti, Kate must determine what would lead a woman to abandon her child.
OPINION: One thing I liked about this story was that there was really a happy ending -- especially for this series. The mystery here is small and it solution is pretty obvious because of the short nature of the story but the story works out well. This novella gives Kate and John a chance to have further development in their relationship. It is clear that Kate is serious about John and their relationship might be taking a new direction.
WORTH MENTIONING: This novella gives a good sense of the structure of the novels in this series although the mystery is less grim. In fact, this may be one of the happiest endings ever.
CONNECTED BOOKS: A HIDDEN SECRET is book 6.5 of the Kate Burkholder series. It can be read as a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
SEEDS OF DECEPTION
"Zimmerman's Orchard was the last place fourteen-year-old Katie Burkholder wanted to be, especially with her older brother, Jacob."
FINAL DECISION: An intriguing little story that gives more background and depth to Kate and her family and friends, this short story gives readers a glimpse into Kate's life as a young teenager.
THE STORY: Fourteen year old Amish Kate Burkholder is avoiding her chores with her best friend Mattie. When a barn burns, Kate is torn between the evidence and believing her best friend's version of events.
OPINION: This short story taking place in Kate's teenage years gives some interesting insights into Kate and her relationships with her Amish friends and family. Kate is as dogged as an adult and also willing to go for overall justice even if not particularly factual. I liked seeing this glimpse into Kate before her life became more dark and complicated. I didn't think this story was needed to understand Kate or those around her and I don't think I would reach for this as a re-read but I was satisfied with the story.
WORTH MENTIONING: This story takes place not long before Kate's rape.
CONNECTED BOOKS: SEEDS OF DECEPTION is book 7.5 of the Kate Burkholder series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 3 stars.
ONLY THE LUCKY
FINAL DECISION: This is a nice short story in the Kate Buckholder universe. The story isn't particularly complicated but gives a small sense of the overarching issues that are invested in the series -- Amish-English relationship and conflict, Kate's work as a small town police chief and her romance.
THE STORY: It is Friday the 13th in Painters Mill and plenty is going wrong. A "rager" is being held where both Amish and English are attending. Drinking, drugs and all sorts of problems that young people can get into are expected and enough to give Kate a headache. At the same time, an accident causes a power outage in town. When one of the Amish girls attending the rager is attacked and left for dead, Kate has to find out who wanted to hurt this young woman.
OPINION: I enjoyed this story although the solution seemed pretty basic to me and I figured it out almost immediately. I did like, however, this glimpse of Kate who seems much more settled and happy. I wish we had seen more of her and Tomasetti because I really love their relationship but we did see how peaceful they are right now which was nice.
Because of the length of this story, things happen pretty quickly. I also liked the secondary romance in the story and was surprised at how well everything dropped into place with all the moving parts of the story and the various characters.
The novels in this series tend to be much more angst driven so it was nice to see a more uncomplicated mystery for Kate to solve.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a very short story and only gives a small taste of the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ONLY THE LUCKY is a short story that is 8.5 of the Kate Buckholder series. This story is a taste and introduction to the series for new readers and a bridge story for readers of the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
IN DARK COMPANY
FINAL DECISION: A little mystery that is centered in the characters. I always enjoy seeing Kate doing her work. Wish there was a little more Tomasetti.
THE STORY: Chief of Police Kate Burkholder is awoken with a call about a woman who has run out of the night fleeing a mysterious man. The woman claims to have amnesia but knows that someone is trying to kill her. Kate has to find out who the woman is and discover if she is the victim or a criminal herself.
OPINION: I enjoyed this story but I missed the interaction between Kate and Tomasetti. While I appreciate that she is the main character and I expect in the large books that she will be acting as Chief of Police and an independent woman, I've liked the short stories the best when we get to see the two of them working together.
The story was a well crafted mystery with a definite and clear arc in the story. The characters were well designed for such a short story.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a short story that focuses on a mystery with no romance involved.
CONNECTED BOOKS: IN DARK COMPANY is book 9.5 in the Kate Burkholder series. This is a standalone mystery can be read without knowledge of any of the other books.
STAR RATING: I give this story 4 stars.
IN PLAIN SIGHT
FINAL DECISION: A small mystery about a teenage Amish boy who is struck by a car and questions that arise when it looks like it might not have been an accident. This is a small mystery benefiting its length, but I liked it as we get to see all the best parts of the characters in the series.
THE STORY: When a teenage Amish boy is found seriously injured by the side of the road, it initially appears to be an accident. But Chief Kate Burkholder soon finds out that not everyone in town was happy that the Amish boy was dating an English girl.
OPINION: This is a pretty straightforward story, but has some of the hallmark issues raised in the series: the conflict between the Amish and the others in town, emotional and sex relationships, Kate being a strong person who does her job in a kickass fashion, the relationships she has with her staff and John. This short story (it's too short for me to even consider it a novella) gives a nice taste of what is involved in the series. I thought the plot was well executed.
WORTH MENTIONING: Only small glimpses of Kate and John in this one.
CONNECTED BOOKS: IN PLAIN SIGHT is book 11.5 in the Kate Burkholder series. This short story can be read as a standalone and gives some idea of the stakes in the main books in the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
Below are my reviews of each of these stories:
LONG LOST
FINAL DECISION: This was a nice little novella. There was a mystery, but it was a simple one without much drama or thrill. For me, the best part was the relationship between Kate and John and their inability to relax.
THE STORY: Kate Burkholder, a police chief and her lover John Tomasetti are taking a well deserved vacation at a bed and breakfast when a 20 year old mystery of a missing woman tempts them away from their relaxation into investigating what happened.
OPINION: Part of my favorite parts of this series is the interactions between Kate and John. Their dark pasts have made their relationship a rocky one. Here, Kate and John have a chance to relax, but their relationship remains tricky for them so they slide into an investigation rather than dealing with their relationship. For me, that was more interesting than the mystery here.
WORTH MENTIONING: This novella is very short. In my Kindle version, 25% was a preview for another book.
CONNECTED BOOKS: LONG LOST is book 4.5 in the Kate Burkholder series. It can be read as a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 3.5 stars.
A HIDDEN SECRET
FINAL DECISION: A sad solution to a small mystery but with an optimistic ending. I liked this book more for the development of Kate's character and the chance to know how her relationship with John is evolving.
THE STORY: Someone has abandoned a newborn baby and Kate Burkholder comes to investigate. The infant was left with some items which lead Kate to believe that the mother might be Amish. With the help of her lover John Tomasetti, Kate must determine what would lead a woman to abandon her child.
OPINION: One thing I liked about this story was that there was really a happy ending -- especially for this series. The mystery here is small and it solution is pretty obvious because of the short nature of the story but the story works out well. This novella gives Kate and John a chance to have further development in their relationship. It is clear that Kate is serious about John and their relationship might be taking a new direction.
WORTH MENTIONING: This novella gives a good sense of the structure of the novels in this series although the mystery is less grim. In fact, this may be one of the happiest endings ever.
CONNECTED BOOKS: A HIDDEN SECRET is book 6.5 of the Kate Burkholder series. It can be read as a standalone.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
SEEDS OF DECEPTION
"Zimmerman's Orchard was the last place fourteen-year-old Katie Burkholder wanted to be, especially with her older brother, Jacob."
FINAL DECISION: An intriguing little story that gives more background and depth to Kate and her family and friends, this short story gives readers a glimpse into Kate's life as a young teenager.
THE STORY: Fourteen year old Amish Kate Burkholder is avoiding her chores with her best friend Mattie. When a barn burns, Kate is torn between the evidence and believing her best friend's version of events.
OPINION: This short story taking place in Kate's teenage years gives some interesting insights into Kate and her relationships with her Amish friends and family. Kate is as dogged as an adult and also willing to go for overall justice even if not particularly factual. I liked seeing this glimpse into Kate before her life became more dark and complicated. I didn't think this story was needed to understand Kate or those around her and I don't think I would reach for this as a re-read but I was satisfied with the story.
WORTH MENTIONING: This story takes place not long before Kate's rape.
CONNECTED BOOKS: SEEDS OF DECEPTION is book 7.5 of the Kate Burkholder series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 3 stars.
ONLY THE LUCKY
FINAL DECISION: This is a nice short story in the Kate Buckholder universe. The story isn't particularly complicated but gives a small sense of the overarching issues that are invested in the series -- Amish-English relationship and conflict, Kate's work as a small town police chief and her romance.
THE STORY: It is Friday the 13th in Painters Mill and plenty is going wrong. A "rager" is being held where both Amish and English are attending. Drinking, drugs and all sorts of problems that young people can get into are expected and enough to give Kate a headache. At the same time, an accident causes a power outage in town. When one of the Amish girls attending the rager is attacked and left for dead, Kate has to find out who wanted to hurt this young woman.
OPINION: I enjoyed this story although the solution seemed pretty basic to me and I figured it out almost immediately. I did like, however, this glimpse of Kate who seems much more settled and happy. I wish we had seen more of her and Tomasetti because I really love their relationship but we did see how peaceful they are right now which was nice.
Because of the length of this story, things happen pretty quickly. I also liked the secondary romance in the story and was surprised at how well everything dropped into place with all the moving parts of the story and the various characters.
The novels in this series tend to be much more angst driven so it was nice to see a more uncomplicated mystery for Kate to solve.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a very short story and only gives a small taste of the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ONLY THE LUCKY is a short story that is 8.5 of the Kate Buckholder series. This story is a taste and introduction to the series for new readers and a bridge story for readers of the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
IN DARK COMPANY
FINAL DECISION: A little mystery that is centered in the characters. I always enjoy seeing Kate doing her work. Wish there was a little more Tomasetti.
THE STORY: Chief of Police Kate Burkholder is awoken with a call about a woman who has run out of the night fleeing a mysterious man. The woman claims to have amnesia but knows that someone is trying to kill her. Kate has to find out who the woman is and discover if she is the victim or a criminal herself.
OPINION: I enjoyed this story but I missed the interaction between Kate and Tomasetti. While I appreciate that she is the main character and I expect in the large books that she will be acting as Chief of Police and an independent woman, I've liked the short stories the best when we get to see the two of them working together.
The story was a well crafted mystery with a definite and clear arc in the story. The characters were well designed for such a short story.
WORTH MENTIONING: This is a short story that focuses on a mystery with no romance involved.
CONNECTED BOOKS: IN DARK COMPANY is book 9.5 in the Kate Burkholder series. This is a standalone mystery can be read without knowledge of any of the other books.
STAR RATING: I give this story 4 stars.
IN PLAIN SIGHT
FINAL DECISION: A small mystery about a teenage Amish boy who is struck by a car and questions that arise when it looks like it might not have been an accident. This is a small mystery benefiting its length, but I liked it as we get to see all the best parts of the characters in the series.
THE STORY: When a teenage Amish boy is found seriously injured by the side of the road, it initially appears to be an accident. But Chief Kate Burkholder soon finds out that not everyone in town was happy that the Amish boy was dating an English girl.
OPINION: This is a pretty straightforward story, but has some of the hallmark issues raised in the series: the conflict between the Amish and the others in town, emotional and sex relationships, Kate being a strong person who does her job in a kickass fashion, the relationships she has with her staff and John. This short story (it's too short for me to even consider it a novella) gives a nice taste of what is involved in the series. I thought the plot was well executed.
WORTH MENTIONING: Only small glimpses of Kate and John in this one.
CONNECTED BOOKS: IN PLAIN SIGHT is book 11.5 in the Kate Burkholder series. This short story can be read as a standalone and gives some idea of the stakes in the main books in the series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
May 26, 2024
Who doesn't love Linda Castillo? I don't know anyone who doesn't.
So to be able to read so many short stories about one of my favorite characters, Kate Burkholder, you bet I was in!
4 stars
Happy Reading!
The book burp...
While on vacation with her partner John Tomasetti in LONG LOST, Kate discovers that the old house where they're staying is haunted by a girl who disappeared decades before...
An abandoned baby is discovered on the Amish bishop's front porch in A HIDDEN SECRET, and Kate is called in to investigate.
SEEDS OF DECEPTION unearths the secrets of Kate Burkholder's own Amish past―and lays the groundwork for her future career in law enforcement.
In the midst of a power outage in Painters Mill, a teenage girl is attacked at an Amish party in ONLY THE LUCKY.
IN DARK COMPANY is the story of an injured woman with amnesia who seeks Kate's help in trying to remember her attacker’s identity...and her own.
In IN PLAIN SIGHT, Kate investigates what she believes is a straightforward hit-and-run accident―but soon uncovers a story of teenage passion that may have led to attempted murder.
So to be able to read so many short stories about one of my favorite characters, Kate Burkholder, you bet I was in!
4 stars
Happy Reading!
The book burp...
While on vacation with her partner John Tomasetti in LONG LOST, Kate discovers that the old house where they're staying is haunted by a girl who disappeared decades before...
An abandoned baby is discovered on the Amish bishop's front porch in A HIDDEN SECRET, and Kate is called in to investigate.
SEEDS OF DECEPTION unearths the secrets of Kate Burkholder's own Amish past―and lays the groundwork for her future career in law enforcement.
In the midst of a power outage in Painters Mill, a teenage girl is attacked at an Amish party in ONLY THE LUCKY.
IN DARK COMPANY is the story of an injured woman with amnesia who seeks Kate's help in trying to remember her attacker’s identity...and her own.
In IN PLAIN SIGHT, Kate investigates what she believes is a straightforward hit-and-run accident―but soon uncovers a story of teenage passion that may have led to attempted murder.
June 18, 2021
I really like Linda Castillo's Kate Burkholder mysteries but I didn't realize until I started to read this book that it was a series of short stories. I have to admit that the first few didn't catch my fancy. However as I got deeper into the book the stories got longer and more interesting.
In the end the book was worth the read and fans of Linda Castillo will enjoy the book.
In the end the book was worth the read and fans of Linda Castillo will enjoy the book.
May 2, 2021
Here we have a collection of short stories based on Amish culture by Castillo. One flashes back to Chief of Police Kate Burkholder's youth. The stories vary in lenght. A fair read for thoe who enjoy police related stories.
July 2, 2021
A collection of short stories featuring Kate Burkholder and John Tomaseti. It was a good read. I not only like this series, but I enjoy learning new things when I read. In this book and the series I learned more about the Amish community.
September 19, 2021
Six short stories from the Kate Burkholder series by the author in one book, including a hit-and-run, a missing girl, & a young woman with amnesia. It's an alright read, but because they are short stories they don't really have any depth. I found the book a bit hard-going because just as the individual stories became interesting, they were over. I'd say this is for 'hardcore fans who absolutely have to read everything in a series' only.
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