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The Amish Witness

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SHATTERED AMISH SANCTUARY

After witnessing the murder of her best friend, Elizabeth Lapp flees to the Amish community she left years ago, hoping the killer won't find her. But the murderer follows Elizabeth, trapping her in her family's barn, and she's sure she won't survive—until an Amish man rushes to save her. As the attacker runs off, Elizabeth sees her rescuer is none other than Thomas King, the handsome farmer she left behind with her dreams and her heart. Now widowed with two small children, Thomas vows to keep her safe…despite not being ready to forgive her. And suddenly, the man whose love she longs for—but can't allow herself to accept—is all that's standing between her and a cold-blooded killer.

288 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published September 5, 2017

69 people are currently reading
148 people want to read

About the author

Diane Burke

35 books46 followers
This award winning author lives in Central Florida. She loves to visit the beach, spend time with friends and family, read, and, of course, write, write, write.

She loves to hear from her readers. Catch her on her website dianeburkeauthor.com for her latest books or write her at diane@dianeburkeauthor.com

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5 stars
94 (52%)
4 stars
62 (34%)
3 stars
16 (8%)
2 stars
5 (2%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 27 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Marilyn.
1,270 reviews
May 31, 2020
After reading the first page I was reading quickly. Elizabeth didn’t anticipate her life being endangered immediately after her return home to her Amish community or being rescued by her former boyfriend. Secrets from the past, unbelievable happenings and some adorable children gave way to heartache, truths being exposed and renewed romance. Will the Amish community be able to handle the murderer or will the Sheriff’s department be called upon?

I was given this used book from an acquaintance, thus no review was required. I have shared my own opinion.
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,236 reviews490 followers
July 11, 2017
This is one of those books that once you turn the cover you will soon be reading the last page, yes it goes that fast.
Evil people don’t often think rationally, and it is proven here, so much of what happens makes no sense, and yet it seems so real. The author has woven a tale that covers both the Amish and English worlds, and boy do the converge into one another, and the consequences become deadly, and you will be asking yourself “Why?”
Some of the reason why some of the things happen will leave you scratching your head, and yet other seem so real and yes, you really can see that taking place. There are terrifying moments along with some subtle romance, and children that will warm your heart.
A book to pick up when you want to be quickly immersed in a story that will linger after the last page has been turned.
I received this book through Net Galley and Harlequin Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.

Profile Image for Clare O'Beara.
Author 25 books372 followers
February 18, 2018
This is a suspense story which occurs in an Amish community, as a young woman who left the farm returns home after her friend is murdered.

I enjoyed this lively read and the mix of outside influences with the community way of life. A romance develops, but between the emphasis on scary incidents and the inspirational nature of the read, the book is suitable for teens as well as adults.

I downloaded an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
Profile Image for Pamela Pavkov.
1,263 reviews26 followers
October 30, 2020
The Amish Witness is a very suspense packed mystery involving the Amish written by Diane Burke. This story has everything a great mystery needs to keep the readers interest. The characters are well developed and add great depth to this story. The storyline never dies out so the suspense just continues to build.

Elizabeth Lapp flees the English world back to her Amish community after witnessing the murder of her best friend. Hoping she has left the murderer behind Elizabeth tries to start living the life she left behind as a teenager. When things start to happen which causes Elizabeth to question her decision she is grabbed by a stranger in the darkness of her barn only to be saved by the man she left behind and still loves. Thomas King is shocked to see Elizabeth home again and this begins the journey to keep Elizabeth and her mother safe. There are several secrets that will be revealed as this story plays out which makes for a very interesting read. Who the murderer turns out to be leaves people in high places stunned.

I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others.

Congratulations to Diane Burke for writing another exceptional story of suspense and mystery for her readers enjoyment.
Profile Image for Susan.
64 reviews
November 4, 2017
It’ll Be Over Before You Know It!

Diane Burke is a new-to-me author. I did a general search of “Amish” and The Amish Witness came up. With so many authors writing in the Amish fiction genre, would this work be able to hold its own compared to some of the other authors’ works? Indeed, Burke accomplishes it quite well!

The Amish Witness follows Elizabeth Lapp, who jumped the fence years ago. When she witnesses the murder of her dear friend, Hannah, she heads back to her Amish community for refuge…but she hasn’t run far enough.

Thomas King is a widowed Amish farmer with two small children. He is shocked to find a woman being attacked in a neighbor’s barn….only to see that the woman is none other than Elizabeth Lapp, the girl that left him for the Englisch world so many years ago. Seeing as there is a killer on the loose, Thomas pledges to protect Elizabeth – even if he can’t forgive her.

What happened at the murder scene? Why did someone decide that Hannah should be killed? Why did Elizabeth really leave her Amish community behind? Can Thomas ever truly forgive Elizabeth? Read and find out!

I was given The Amish Witness in exchange for my honest review. I was not disappointed. Burke does an exceptional job of capturing the reader with the first few pages. You then have no choice: You must read it until the end! Part of the storyline had me thinking – is this realistic? And yet, when a murder occurs is there really ever any sanity to it? Definitely pick this one up. You’ll fly through the pages in no time!
Profile Image for Kim Bakos.
595 reviews13 followers
June 7, 2018
One of my favorite genres is Amish fiction, and when you throw in a little suspense, it is a perfect mix.
This was a fun story, and even though it is a Christian story, it doesn't shy away from the tougher issues as this included rape and murder.
I love the characters - none were too good to be true - and the sweet love story that is the heart of the book.
Profile Image for Anna Marie.
1,397 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2023
Absolutely NO.

I can't believe how many people four starred this disaster. Do they not read actual literature, ever?

We have a heroine who is *NOT* a heroine. She left her faith seven years ago, and only returns now when she's sc-c-c-cared of a murderer she saw kill her friend Hannah. So immediately she runs to the Amish friends and family, to put THEIR lives in danger, because she's that *strong and independent*, that wonderful a person.

And immediately, the murderer is in her barn where she's gathering eggs in "waist deep snow" in the "dark" of winter. Um, cluephone: chickens don't lay eggs in winter. Been keeping them for seventeen years now, and it's kind of obvious to homesteaders and farmers.

Then she drops the eggs, but nobody slips in the gunk as she fights for her life against baddie. Oh, and somehow some of the eggs she dropped DON'T break (!?!?!!?!?!). How about no?

As for the fight, it goes like this:
Him: Give me what's mine.
Her: Who are you? What do you want?!
Him: I want what's mine.
Her: I don't know what you're talking about.
Him: You have it, and it's MINE!!!
Her: Please! Go away! I don't have anything!!
Him: You have what's MINNNNNNEEEE!!!!

Um, don't you think he would've *CLARIFIED* by now? Not kidding, there are something like THREE pages of this BS. You know, "The papers, you fool!" or "My money- don't be stupid!" or even "Muh samwrich - I'm hungry!!!!" But no. Just "what's mine".

Because STELLAR writing.

The Hero shows, up. *Gasp!* Elizabeth's back! She betrayed me, deserted me, broke my heart into a zillion pieces, and now I have a totally different, happy life, but GAH!! I've missed her, want to introduce her to my kids, have her for my own!! Wait, WHAT?! How incongruous is all THAT!!?? He raises a pitchfork to protect her, baddie runs out the back door, and...

... they all go in and have coffee and deliver the non-broken eggs to mom and decide that it's none of their business who he was or what he wants, and oh, look at the time!! There are chores to do!!

At which point Hero - who has "little time to offer" Elizabeth/mother - spends TWO HOURS haying and milking the cows two widows have on their farm. ?!?!?!?! I... just... it's... NO!!!! GAH!!!!!! They would NOT have that many cows, he would NOT have that much time to put into it if he has his own farm and children and... NO!

And then he goes BACK inside the house to have breakfast NOT with his children and NOT talk about it with Elizabeth, some more?!?!

Just STOP. Because this is so melodramatic, so hyper-flawed, so pitifully written that I threw it against a wall. It's BAD. Period.

My husband won't even read the Love Inspired Suspense books, anymore - he says they're garbage books put out by people who don't know anything about writing OR suspense. I liked 'Speed Trap' by Patricia Davids very much, so I am looking for that... but beginning to think he's right.

This is NOT worth anyone's time.
DNF @ pg. 29
Profile Image for Books and Spoons.
1,612 reviews32 followers
September 25, 2017
A tangled tale of murder and mayhem in the Amish community mixed with a second chance with love and the powerful message of forgiveness and redemption.
The Amish community and their faith and the culture are compelling and interesting. The simple way of life and the absolute faith in God and His guidance are rather impressive and alluring. I enjoyed the author's way to tell the story in such fluent, flowing way that captured my mind completely, dismissing everything else around me.
Elizabeth Lapp makes an intriguing heroine with her sudden return to the community, the mysterious secrets she is holding, and the way she departed her family, friends, and the Amish way seven years ago. She is kind, sweet lady, with heart of gold. Yet she has a stubborn streak, she is independent, she has a wide worldview after her years in the English world, and she's a very private person making it hard to open up about her deepest fears and doubts in her heart.
Thomas has had his heart broken twice, the first time when Elisabeth left the community without explanation, and the second time when his young wife died giving birth to their daughter. He is a devoted father, a good son, kind and helpful neighbor. His faith in God is unwavering, his ability to see the bigger picture and to find forgiveness in his heart are admirable.
While protecting Elisabeth and her mother from the constant attacks, Thomas is tangling with the old feelings awakening towards Elisabeth. The suspense is intense and the assaults escalating, turning into dangerous and deadly. The secrets from the past have come to hunt the present and only complete honesty will bring forward the clues needed to catch the culprit.
The grace, compassion, and mercy the characters display is commendable. The support of the community, the help, loyalty, and protection they provide to each other is praiseworthy. From the broken hearts and hopes for the future, they find the ability to open up, share their inner fears and doubts and forgive, forget, and move on to a brighter future.
While the mystery and mayhem kept the mind entertained and the story intense, the growing love and dispensation towards each other, the spiritual growth of the characters, gave something to reflect on and appreciate.
Compelling and enthralling romantic suspense with strong elements of faith and forgiveness
~ Four Spoons
Profile Image for Pam Graber.
1,130 reviews42 followers
June 1, 2020
Elizabeth Lapp and her best friend left the Amish community years ago, each running away for a different reason. Eight years down the road, Elizabeth witnesses her best friend's murder, and runs - back to the only place she's ever really felt safe, her Amish home. Soon after arriving, she is accosted by the killer in her mother's barn. The only thing that saves her is having her mother's neighbor, Thomas King, show up for the evening chores. Realizing she' has brought the danger to her mother's doorstep, Lizzie decides it is better that she leave, but running away last time only hurt the ones she loved. Can she hurt her mother, and Thomas, that way again?

Thomas King loved Elizabeth Lapp from the time they were children, so when she left the community without a word, he was heartbroken. He waited for her to come back, until her mother told him she didn't plan to return. He married, had a son, and when his wife died giving birth to their daughter, he decided he couldn't take losing another woman and packed his heart away. Seeing Lizzie in danger brings out his protective instincts, and having her close by jump starts his heart. Can he convince her to stay and face her fear?

This book was a quick read with a plot that moved along at a swift pace. Readers of romantic suspense would enjoy this. I know I did!
Profile Image for Pam.
4,625 reviews68 followers
August 9, 2017
accurate the descriptions are, I am not sure as I can only go on what little I have read. It also deals with a murderer seeking out the witness to the murder.
Elizabeth Lapp has finally come home after seven years of being out of the community. She and her friend Hannah had left together. Elizabeth could not let Hannah go out into the world totally alone; so, with the backing of her parents, Elizabeth went. To do this, she also had to break up with her suitor, Thomas King. She had another reason for breaking up with him; but only she and her Mother knew the reason.
Elizabeth and Hannah were moving into a new condo. Hannah stayed at the condo while Elizabeth made a final trip to get the rest of the boxes. As she was carrying a box into the condo, she witnessed a man killing her friend Hannah. Elizabeth did not get a clear look at the man; but knowing she would be next, she ran to her car. Not knowing anywhere else to go, Elizabeth headed home.
Once home, she questioned her decision. Was coming home a mistake? Would the murderer follow her? Was she putting her Mother and the community in danger? She finds herself relying on Thomas King. However, this puts his two young children and his parents at risk. Can she do this? Where should she go?
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
November 20, 2017
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, The Amish Witness. I always love Amish stories and this one was excellent. This story is well written, action packed and full of faith. I know you are going to love it.

Elizabeth Lapp was brought up Amish. When her best friend had to leave the community Elizabeth went with her. She just witnessed the murder of her friend and this time she runs home but the killer follows her. He attacks her in the barn and she is rescued by a neighbor. Thomas was the love of her life before she left the community. A man who is unable to forgive her.

Widower Thomas King helps the Lapp widow (Elizabeth's mamm) after her husband's death. He is shocked to find out that Elizabeth has returned home, he helps her from a man trying to kill her, and even though she betrayed him he vows to protect her. Since he has two small children he can't risk his heart to his first love but he will keep her alive.

A journey of reunited hearts that beat just for each other. A killer trying to destroy them and find the evidence Hannah left behind. God has a plan for these two; a plan for a hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan and not for evil.
499 reviews6 followers
December 29, 2017
The Amish and English worlds collide in Lancaster, Pennsylvania when Elizabeth Lapp returns home. Seven years ago Elizabeth left her community to flee to Philadelphia with her best friend Hannah. The two girls establish themselves but Hannah still holds a secret.

The story is woven with intrigue and danger when Elizabeth witnesses Hannah's murder and comes face to face briefly with the killer. While Elizabeth is known for being fiercely independent she returns home to the safety of her community and her mamm.

The past can't be forgotten when she sees her old beau Thomas King. He is now a widower with two sweet children Benjamin and Rachel.

The unknown killer follows Elizabeth and wants something that belongs to him. Elizabeth does not know what it is but she then has to deal with many episodes of violence and danger and her life being at risk all for this secret.

When the killer is finally discovered and his motives exposed the story has a suspenseful yet satisfying ending.

I loved reading how Elizabeth and Thomas both had to learn to forgive and trust each other again. This is a wonderful story for those who love reading Amish stories as well as the elements of suspense. It will keep your turning the pages all the way until the end!
195 reviews9 followers
January 27, 2020
If you are looking for a book that is fulled with lots of suspense. A book that will keep you turning page after page, pick up a copy of The Amish Witness by Diane Burke.
After witnessing her best friend being murdered, Elizabeth Lapp leaves the English world, after seven years, to seek refuge in the Amish community of Stony Creek in Lancaster PA.
The killer will stop at nothing to get from Elizabeth what he claims she has that belongs to him
Thomas King, her ex-beau, comes to the rescue when he happens upon the attacker as he attacks Elizabeth in the barn.
Follow Thomas, as he does all he can to protect Elizabeth from this horrible person.
Profile Image for Joy Melville.
Author 3 books91 followers
October 1, 2017
As in any human being, there are inner secrets/lies and that's been made clear in Diane Burke's THE AMISH WITNESS -
My issue with the story is that there are so many TRADITIONS handed down - so many - REGULATIONS passed out by individual Bishops, that it's hard to wrap my head around the contemporary AMISH ROMANTIC SUSPENSE as a GENRE

I've lived around the Amish for 50 years and have seen their religion exploited in many ways.
NOT quite ready to accept it in Romantic Suspense.

Otherwise this is a GOOD ROMANTIC SUSPENSE STORY.
Profile Image for Kelly Knapp.
948 reviews20 followers
December 12, 2017
When Elizabeth witnesses the murder of her freind, she realizes that the only safe place is back home in old Amish community. Returning means facing her old beau, who wants to know why she left to live an englisher's life. However, the killer has followed her to the community and demands she return what belongs to him. The problem is Elizabeth does have anything, or does she?

I love these books because they have good stories, mixed with a romance that always ends in a happy ever after. While this is rarely true in real life, sometimes adults need some fantasy too.
Profile Image for Fay Risner.
Author 88 books13 followers
November 20, 2018
Another good book from Harlequin Amish Romance. In this one a young Amish woman leaves her community and the man she had planned to marry to keep her secret from all of them. Seven years later witnesses a murder and flees back to the Amish community for protection and help from the man she loved, now a widower, only to have the killer follow her. Lots of suspense and a good romance which would be suitable for teenagers to read.
Profile Image for Jan Jackson.
25 reviews2 followers
September 8, 2017
Elizabeth Lapp returns home to the safety of her Amish life after the murder of her best friend. But danger follows her, and only the man she left behind can save her from a killer.

Diane Burke weaves a story filled with suspense and danger, but also one of renewed faith and forgiveness. Excellent read!
121 reviews3 followers
February 6, 2023
Toy Technology

Just the right kind of suspense; just the right kind of romance, and both perfectly balanced to supply a wonderful afternoon of entertainment. Now to find another story by Ms. Burke.
128 reviews
June 3, 2025
The Amish Witness

All I can say is this You Have To Read This Book. This is the first book I read by this author, but
it won't be my last. What an amazing writer Diane Burke is. Wish I could give more then a five
star rating, Thank you to this author I absolutely loved this story.
113 reviews
October 21, 2018
A nice mystery with twists and page turners. I couldn't put it down. I very nicely written cozy mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
18 reviews
March 19, 2021
I love this book because it is so happy, scary and sad all at the same time.
393 reviews13 followers
September 9, 2022
After reading the 1st couple of pages I was hooked. Loved the story line. Thank you Diane Burke for sharing your tales with us readers.😀
Profile Image for Nancy.
2,592 reviews65 followers
September 19, 2022
Not boring. Illustrates the problem with keeping secrets. A peek into Amish life. 3.5 stars
Profile Image for Rhonda.
516 reviews20 followers
March 27, 2018
I've been reading Amish works of fiction for many, many years now and my favorite ones combine a bit of romance with suspense. This one does a beautiful job of combining the two. A theme of past hurts and forgiveness tie the two together nicely.
I love to read about couples who have had previous relationships and then meet again, under new circumstances. Thomas and Elizabeth have a significant history of romance and love, but it ended badly when Elizabeth left her Amish faith and community to join the English world with her friend, Hannah. Hannah has brought Thomas and Elizabeth together again, but unfortunately it happens when Hannah is murdered. It makes complete sense to me that Elizabeth would seek the solace of home and family when tragedy strikes and her life it in danger too.
I am rating this book 4 **** stars and I highly recommend it to readers.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley and Love Inspired Suspense in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 28 reviews

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