Amish Fugitive

Love Inspired Cold Case

by Shelley Shepard Gray

An Amish outcast. A woman willing to help.

A killer determined to silence them.

Daniel Miller’s Amish community won’t accept him even though he’s been acquitted of a crime he didn’t commit. When Lela Borntrager offers to help him find the real culprit, Daniel has a chance to prove his innocence. But a killer on the loose puts them both in danger. Will Daniel accept Lela’s help, or will he sacrifice clearing his name to keep her safe?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Amish, Amish Fiction, Romance

216 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2023

About the author

Librarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).

Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.

Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.

Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.


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Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve really enjoyed the books that Shelley Shepard Gray has written for the Love Inspired Cold Case line, and Amish Fugitive is no exception. The cold case element allows for a slower pace than the typical Love Inspired Suspense titles (which are action packed from the first page to the last, with little down time) and contains a great mix of romance, mystery, and suspense. Gray’s writing voice lends itself perfectly to this style of book, and I love that her signature warmth and down-to-earth characters get a chance to shine in this genre too.

In Amish Fugitive, Daniel Miller is returning home at long last but he’s certainly not getting a hero’s welcome. On the contrary, his Amish community doesn’t seem to care that the courts overturned his murder conviction; as far as they’re concerned, he did kill one of their own. Never mind that he’s one of their own too and was framed for the murder. Even though most of us (hopefully lol) have never experienced Daniel’s exact situation, the author skillfully keeps him relatable to the average reader. After all, we’ve all felt unwelcome at some point in our lives – many times by people whom we hoped would extend grace or friendship.

Enter Lela Borntrager, who out of everyone in the community really does have a reason to harbor ill feelings toward Daniel (she’s related to the young man who was killed). Yet instead she is one of the only people to offer him friendship and acceptance … and maybe even her heart. I loved Lela right away. She is warm and gracious and witty, and she’s definitely someone you want in your corner. She does the right thing even when it costs her, and that’s always an admirable trait in a person, fictional or otherwise. I enjoyed watching her friendship with Daniel blossom into romance as the story progresses, and I appreciated her constant presence in his life despite his attempts to distance himself for her protection.

The mystery in Amish Fugitive has high stakes. Not only does Detective Nate want to find justice for his murdered nephew, but he also wants to give Daniel back the life that the initial halfhearted investigation took from him. I loved the team that Nate, Lela, and Daniel made in this story, particularly as Lela finally got to establish a relationship with her uncle (Nate) who has been estranged from his Amish family. While nothing about the eventual outcome of the case terribly surprised me, the path to get there IS full of twists and turns that kept me absorbed in the story & turning the pages.

Bottom Line: Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray is an enjoyable cold case mystery with a dash of suspense and a sweet romance. Gray also usually includes a secondary romance thread, and I really loved the one in this book! Themes of restoration, friendship, and forgiveness are lightly tucked into the plot, supporting the story without being preachy or saccharine, and the layered characters feel real and relatable. I enjoyed this warmly-written read, and I’m looking forward to the next one!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[January · Rating 3 out of 5]

Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray
Inspirational Cold Case Collection
216-page Kindle Ebook story starts on 8 and ends on 204

Genre: Inspiration, Crime Fiction, Clean Romance, Christian Fiction, Amish Fiction

Featuring: Author's for Inspirational Cold Case Collection, Epigraphs, September, Pariah Trope, Forbidden Love Trope, Detective, Cold Case, Family Drama, Amish, Former Amish, The Innocence Project, Framed, Murder Investigation, Waitress, Berlin, Ohio; Drugs Friendship, Estranged Family, Forgiveness, Stern Parenting, Excerpt from Buried Threat by Susan Gee Heino

Rating as a movie: PG-13 for mentions of murder, drugs, and violence

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️🌽

My thoughts: 🔖Page 42 of 216 Chapter Five - This is the best opening so far. I am a big concern with how the guys are being treated. Seems like liberty was taken for the plot, this is Christian behavior and the family could have written.

This plot felt very juvenile from the crime to the romance. It wasn't my favorite but it was interesting and mostly entertaining. I never found out where they were living, somewhere far from Berlin but a half day's drive away. I would have liked to see more forgiveness on a wider scale, the conclusion was speeding to the epilogue, it felt a bit incomplete..

Recommend to others: Sure, it's a decent story.

Out of the Ashes by Anne Galbraith (2021)
Widow's Secrets by Shelley Shepard Gray (2021)
Danger Next Door by Donna Alward (2021)
Justice Overdue by Lisa Childs (2021)
Grave Secrets by Susan Gee Heino (2022)
Silent Witness by Lara Lacombe (2022)
After She Vanished by Shirley Jump (2022)
Amish Jane Doe by Shelley Shepard Gray (2022)
Evidence Uncovered by Jacquelin Thomas (2022)
Texas Betrayal by Susan Gee Heino (2022)
Buried Ranch Secrets by Lisa Childs (2022)
Killer Past by Ali Olson (2023)
A Cowboy's Justice by Lisa Childs (2023)
Cold Case Deceit by Jacquelin Thomas (2023)
Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray (2023)
Buried Threat by Susan Gee Heino (2023)
A Grave Mistake by Shirley Jump (2023)
Hidden Evidence by Anne Galbraith (2023)

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m such a fan of anything that deals with a cold case therefore I was anxious to read Amish Fugitive. It was refreshing to read a different take on an Amish story and Daniel Miller was the perfect character to achieve that. The Amish community doesn’t readily accept him after being acquitted of a crime he was falsely accused of, but Lela is quick to befriend him and places herself in danger. I loved the interaction between Daniel and Lela and the suspense is right on the mark to keep you turning pages to discover the real killer. The three strand cord of faith is woven in to make the story even more real and believable. I really enjoyed reading this and it is perfect for a quick read during the busy days of summer.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this peek into the life of an Amish man who had been tried and convicted of manslaughter, yet later cleared of the conviction after spending a few years in prison. I really felt for Daniel and the way most of the people in the community refused to acknowledge that he was innocent. Yet, there were a handful of people in the community who had open enough minds and hearts to listen to the truth of the evidence and show him kindness.

Daniel's friendship that grew to romance with Lela was sweet and I liked the way she had confidence that the Lord wanted her to connect with Daniel and get to know him.

I also liked Nate's story. He was the detective who decided to look back into the case and figure out why Daniel was wrongfully convicted and, hopefully, find who really killed his nephew, Brandt.

[Angela (Kentuckybooklover) Brocato-Skaggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has it all: romance, intrigue, and suspense. I did not want to put it down.

Amish Fugitive is a different perspective into modern Amish life in how the war on drugs affects even their lifestyle. Unfortunately there are people who prey on them because of their trusting and simple living.

SSG knows how to hook her reader from page one until the last. My only complaint is I read her books too fast and have to wait for the next one. LOL.

[Patrizia · Rating 4 out of 5]

La storia d'amore non è male e anche quella dello zio della protagonista, che è il detective in questo libro, è carina. Il mistero, invece, non mi ha convinto visto che in realtà non c'è nulla da scoprire, si sa subito chi sia il cattivo, ma nessuno riesce a trovarlo. Comunque sia, mi sento di manica larga e do le 4 stelle.

[Makenna Slagh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good book, though I was a little confused at first. Once it got going, though, it was sooooooo good! Especially at the end when they were hiding in the corn field and were threatened to be shot. Super intense!

[Anna Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I guess the fact that I made it thru a LI Suspense calls for one extra star, but I have to tell you... this one just didn't make the cut, either. It was shoddy in every way. Literally E.V.E.R.Y. way.

First, the writer's tone is that of a high school senior. And yes, the characters are young, but they're so ridiculously immature, it's painful to read. She also has little idea about the Amish, if she thinks 'Nate' isn't a name heard in Amish circles very often (pg 54). Nathan is a *BIBLE* name... and it's VERY common, hello.

And I have my usual complaint about the heroine being twenty and single in an Amish community. This. Wouldn't. Happen. They would arrange something *FOR* her, before that would happen. They're out of school at 16. There's no way they'd let her set for four years, single, just waiting for Prince Charming. That's not the Amish way.

The story is ridiculous, too. Shoddy/lazy cop doesn't look into his case, so an innocent Amish kid goes to prison until a school group takes a closer look at his case and gets him acquitted *FOR* the cops. THEN the now-not-Amish uncle of the victim decides to find the killer - TWO YEARS LATER. Really. That's... absolutely ridiculous. If 1) it was his community, 2) it was his nephew, and 3) nobody liked/trusted the cop on the case? There's not a CHANCE that much time would pass.

Elam & Charity's home is filthy, falling apart, the yard barren and weeds overgrowing the plots... NO. Not a chance - especially with him an elder in the church. There's a standard amongst the Amish, especially the strict districts, and this is one of the strictest. There's NO WAY the Bishop would stand for it.

The author also can't freakin' write. Pg 126-127, paraphrased:
Him: Do you want to do this tonight?
Her: No, tomorrow night.
Him: Really?! That's okay?
Her: No, but... let's do it.
Him: Okay! I'll be here at six tonight!

?!?!?!?!?! GAAHHHHHHHH!!!!

Pg 144 we're told that the waitress at the diner "has a deep faith", but we have ABSOLUTELY no evidence of this in any of the writing. So... where did *THAT* come from? Other than the author says so, which doesn't fly.

The ENTIRETY of the book, Daniel is heavy-handed and slams things, can't drive a buggy because he's too rough with the reins, pushes and squeezes too hard... but then suddenly on Pg 155 all of that is reversed so he can 'cradle her face in his hands'? That's... NOT Daniel. That's an about-face, hello.

And the resolution: there is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING that Wyatt would gain by confessing to the murder, even just in front of Daniel. In fact, that would incriminate him. He wouldn't do it - it's not only out of character, but it's crap writing. "OH, HEY, I'M THE BAD GUY SO SHELLY CAN WRAP THE BOOK UP!!" is really, really pathetic writing. C'mon. Seriously.

And it IRRITATES me in the Amish books when it's a year later in the epilogue, and nobody mentions that the hero now has one of those mustache-less beards going. Like description doesn't matter. Which... oh, hey, in this book, it doesn't. We're never told what anyone looks like, what any of the settings look like... it's just "Market!" or "Diner" or whatever.

No. This wasn't good. It wasn't 'throw-at-the-wall-stupid' (like most of its kind), but I certainly am not keeping it.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author Shelley Shepard Gray is well known for her sweet Amish fiction but has proven she can write suspense as well. And write it well. This one will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Gray isn’t afraid to write about real life, and we see that even the Amish community deals with drug use. And the consequences of it, even to the point of refusing to deal with someone who really wasn’t guilty.

If you want a book with mystery, suspense, and clean romance then do read this one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book! If you love suspense, intrigue, and a dash of romance; this is the book for you! The characters are wonderful! The story is unique and original. Lela is my favorite! She's someone who sees the real person behind the walls that they put up. She's also genuine and loyal. The way the book ends is marvelous! Satisfaction guaranteed!
I was provided a copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Helen Gardner]

I just loved Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray. This novel shows you that even the Amish have some of the same problems within their faith and life as others do. Loved Daniel’s faith and the love that he had for Lela and the fact that they never gave up on each other. Thank you Shelley and Jean for allowing me to read the wonderful novel, the story was very interesting and kept me reading still the end.

Helen M. Gardner

[Ernestine Kaye Haggard · Rating 5 out of 5]

#Shelley Shepard Gray
New York Times Best Selling Author
AMISH FUGITIVE.
Shelley has written another 5 star book
Daniel Miller has come back to his community after been in prison and been acquitted for a crime he didnt do .There is a killer on the loose and Lela Borntrager offers to help him . Does he accept Lela's help ?.Can he prove his self to get his community to accept him.This book is about faith,trust,hope ,happiness.To find out what happens To Daniel and Lela get the book today.

[Tara Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel Miller served prison time, for a murder he didn't commit. When a group of college students challenge Daniels case, he's found innocent. His Amish community shuns him. Daniel and Lela Borntrager are determined to find the real killer. This is a intense, exciting action packed romance. Definitely a must read. I couldn't put it down.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am was so excited that Shelley was writing another book for love inspired cold case, and it did not disappoint. While Daniel’s conviction is over turned, it’s going to take more then that to find his place in the community again. With the help of Detective Nate a once Amish turn detective and budding friendship with Lela, Daniel finds the answers to his questions and his place in the community again. With plenty of twist and turns to keep you on your toes.

[Lisa Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shelley Shepard Gray Amish Fugitive Stand-alone Love Inspired Romance book is truly page turner. It includes love, mystery, boldness, redemption and forgiveness, there is a little of something for everyone and will having you sitting on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend not only this book, but all of Shelley Shepherd Gray’s books. I loved this book and I know you will also.

#shelleyshepardgray #loveinspiredcoldcase #harlequin #amishromance

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so excited that Shelley Shephard has chosen to add another book to the love inspired cold case series, it certainly did not disappoint.
When a young Amish man is wrongly convicted of murder, Lela and her Uncle Nate set out to help him prove his innocence, but the killer is determined to silence them.
I would highly recommend reading this awesome book.
I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher, all opinions are my own.

[Becky Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amish outcast, Daniel Miller trying to fit into his community after he has been cleared of a crime he didn't commit, then Lela bontanger befriends Daniel and offers to help find the real killer. Daniel and Lela overcome overprotective parents and a killer putting their lives in danger

[Carole Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story by Shelley Shepard Gray. An Amish man who was falsely accused, gets released from prison and returns home. As he tries to put his past behind him, will he survive being chased by the true killer. Strong characters, faith and a great storyline make this a five star read.

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooked Me From the Start

Amish Fugitive hooked me right from the start and didn't let me go until the very end. It is a great read!

Book Quote:

"That's how the past is, don't you think?" ... "No matter how hard one might try to paint it a different color, it's always with us."

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this wonderful story full of romance and suspense. I loved Daniel, Lela, Nate and Mitzi. I loved that Daniel needs to finally accept help from people that he did not expect to get help from. I loved all the action and the romance. I did not want to put this book down.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A page turner. Very good!

[PottWab Regional Library]

SM

[Sherry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amish Fugitive is an action packed Cold Case story with suspense, scary moments, sweet clean romance, and second chances. Great book that deserves all five stars!

[J. Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Ending?

A love story with enough suspense and danger to make you scoot to the edge of your seat at times.

I wish there had been more detail about Nate and Mitzi’s courtship—Was Mitzi’s possessive ex husband
totally out of the picture? Was he someone to worry about?

[Sue Vesey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. Not too many books have an Amish man spending time in jail, even unjustly. Original storyline for sure. I liked the characters.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed

Love this author and this story was no exception. Great and unusual storyline. Enjoyed the characters and town. Wish this was a series.