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Kate Burkholder #14
Hidden One
The discovery of an Amish bishop's remains leads chief of police Kate Burkholder to unearth a chilling secret in The Hidden One, a new thriller from bestselling author Linda Castillo.
Over a decade ago, beloved Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus disappeared without a trace. When skeletal remains showing evidence of foul play are unearthed, his disappearance becomes even more sinister.
The town’s elders arrive in Painters Mill to ask chief of police Kate Burkholder for help, but she quickly realizes she has a personal connection to the crime. The handsome Amish man who stands accused of the murder, Jonas Bowman, was Kate’s first love. Forced to confront a painful episode from her past, Kate travels to Pennsylvania’s Kishacoquillas Valley, where the Amish culture differs dramatically from the traditions she knows. Though Bishop Stoltzfus was highly respected, she soon hears about a dark side to this complex man. What was he hiding that resulted in his own brutal death?
Someone doesn’t want Kate asking questions. But even after being accosted and threatened in the dead of night, she refuses to back down. Is she too close to the case—and to Jonas—to see clearly? There’s a killer in the Valley who will stop at nothing to keep the past buried. Will they get to Kate before she can expose the truth? Or will the bishop’s secrets remain hidden forever?
Over a decade ago, beloved Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus disappeared without a trace. When skeletal remains showing evidence of foul play are unearthed, his disappearance becomes even more sinister.
The town’s elders arrive in Painters Mill to ask chief of police Kate Burkholder for help, but she quickly realizes she has a personal connection to the crime. The handsome Amish man who stands accused of the murder, Jonas Bowman, was Kate’s first love. Forced to confront a painful episode from her past, Kate travels to Pennsylvania’s Kishacoquillas Valley, where the Amish culture differs dramatically from the traditions she knows. Though Bishop Stoltzfus was highly respected, she soon hears about a dark side to this complex man. What was he hiding that resulted in his own brutal death?
Someone doesn’t want Kate asking questions. But even after being accosted and threatened in the dead of night, she refuses to back down. Is she too close to the case—and to Jonas—to see clearly? There’s a killer in the Valley who will stop at nothing to keep the past buried. Will they get to Kate before she can expose the truth? Or will the bishop’s secrets remain hidden forever?
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 5, 2022
1033 people are currently reading
13070 people want to read
About the author
Linda Castillo
98 books6,463 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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March 29, 2025
The Hidden One by Linda Castillo
(Kate Burkholder #14)
Kate "I'm a cop" Burkholder doesn't spend a lot of time in Painter's Mill in this 14th novel of the Kate Burkholder series. She has been asked for help by the elders of another town because a man of their town has been accused of a long ago murder. Of course Kate will help, the man is her first love, someone she hasn't seen or spoken to since she was fifteen years old. Kate nosing around into a crime in a town that isn't in her jurisdiction doesn't go over well with the local law enforcement of that town but details like that never stop Kate. Another thing that never stops Kate is body damage that would kill a mere mortal. As usual, Kate finds herself in nearly fatal situations a time or four but that's par for the course for her.
Jonas Bowman, Kate's first love, has been accused of Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus's murder . Stoltzfus disappeared years ago and only now have his bones been found. On the surface, Stoltzfus was well respected but when digging deeper, Kate finds he had a very dark side and that he'd made enemies over the years. Too bad Jonas aired his grievances with Stoltzfus in public so it's very easy to pin the murder on him. Never fear, nothing stops Kate Burkholder, when she's on the trail of justice. This story checks all the Kate Burkholder marks and she'll show the local cops how crime solving is done right.
Pub Jul 5, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for this ARC.
(Kate Burkholder #14)
Kate "I'm a cop" Burkholder doesn't spend a lot of time in Painter's Mill in this 14th novel of the Kate Burkholder series. She has been asked for help by the elders of another town because a man of their town has been accused of a long ago murder. Of course Kate will help, the man is her first love, someone she hasn't seen or spoken to since she was fifteen years old. Kate nosing around into a crime in a town that isn't in her jurisdiction doesn't go over well with the local law enforcement of that town but details like that never stop Kate. Another thing that never stops Kate is body damage that would kill a mere mortal. As usual, Kate finds herself in nearly fatal situations a time or four but that's par for the course for her.
Jonas Bowman, Kate's first love, has been accused of Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus's murder . Stoltzfus disappeared years ago and only now have his bones been found. On the surface, Stoltzfus was well respected but when digging deeper, Kate finds he had a very dark side and that he'd made enemies over the years. Too bad Jonas aired his grievances with Stoltzfus in public so it's very easy to pin the murder on him. Never fear, nothing stops Kate Burkholder, when she's on the trail of justice. This story checks all the Kate Burkholder marks and she'll show the local cops how crime solving is done right.
Pub Jul 5, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for this ARC.
July 4, 2022
Kate Burkholder is the Chief Police Of Police in a town called Painter's Mill, Ohio. It is an Amish community. Kate use to be Amish but ended up no longer being Amish when she was a teenager then moved to Columbus, Ohio, my home town. Then she ended moving back to Painter's Mill to be a police there.
Kate found out from Nelson Yoder that human bones were discovered by one of his brethen's when he was cutting hay. The police came and found out that those bones were identified as belonging to Ananais Stoltz. Ananais was a Bishop for many years. Ananais disappeared eighteen years ago. He vanished without a trace. His children and grandchildren were upset with worry and heartache because no-one knew what happened to him. The police found out that he was shot twice. There was a rifle found with the bones. It was a muzzleloader which was rusted. It belonged to an Amish man, named Jonas. Kate knew Jonas. He was a childhood friend, as they grew older they played baseball, hockey and went swimming in the creek. They also hung out together as teenagers. Kate is asked by some bishops for some help in investigating the case.
This is the 14th book in the Kate Burkholder series. I just love this series. This book can be read as a standalone. I have read every book in this series. This book has a lot of nail biting suspense. I always love how the author has all of her characters well developed. Kate has a lot of life threatening predicaments that she gets herself into.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
This was a buddy read with Marilyn and we both agreed that Kate is under so many life threatening predicaments and that she must be super human, because she never ends up in the hospital.
I want to thank Netgalley and Minotaur Books for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kate found out from Nelson Yoder that human bones were discovered by one of his brethen's when he was cutting hay. The police came and found out that those bones were identified as belonging to Ananais Stoltz. Ananais was a Bishop for many years. Ananais disappeared eighteen years ago. He vanished without a trace. His children and grandchildren were upset with worry and heartache because no-one knew what happened to him. The police found out that he was shot twice. There was a rifle found with the bones. It was a muzzleloader which was rusted. It belonged to an Amish man, named Jonas. Kate knew Jonas. He was a childhood friend, as they grew older they played baseball, hockey and went swimming in the creek. They also hung out together as teenagers. Kate is asked by some bishops for some help in investigating the case.
This is the 14th book in the Kate Burkholder series. I just love this series. This book can be read as a standalone. I have read every book in this series. This book has a lot of nail biting suspense. I always love how the author has all of her characters well developed. Kate has a lot of life threatening predicaments that she gets herself into.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
This was a buddy read with Marilyn and we both agreed that Kate is under so many life threatening predicaments and that she must be super human, because she never ends up in the hospital.
I want to thank Netgalley and Minotaur Books for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2022
4.5⭐😊
I can always count on Linda Castillo to throw in an unexpected reveal to the ending! This is an excellent series. It's very well written.
Kate Burkholder is Chief of police from Painters Mill, Ohio. Kate used to be Amish but left when she was eighteen. In The Hidden One Kate got a visit from Amish bishops from Pennslyvania to help look into a case involving recently discovered decades-old remains that belong to a missing bishop. Jonas Bowman, an old friend, and her first love is charged with homicide.
I really enjoy this one not only was the mystery engaging but also there are a lot of flashbacks. I learn a little more about Kate's background when she's still Amish. Amish lifestyle is fascinating to me.
I have been listening to this series since the beginning and absolutely love Kathleen McInerney's performance. She's especially good when it comes to children's voices.
Thank you Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for this DRC.
Available July 5th, 2022!
I can always count on Linda Castillo to throw in an unexpected reveal to the ending! This is an excellent series. It's very well written.
Kate Burkholder is Chief of police from Painters Mill, Ohio. Kate used to be Amish but left when she was eighteen. In The Hidden One Kate got a visit from Amish bishops from Pennslyvania to help look into a case involving recently discovered decades-old remains that belong to a missing bishop. Jonas Bowman, an old friend, and her first love is charged with homicide.
I really enjoy this one not only was the mystery engaging but also there are a lot of flashbacks. I learn a little more about Kate's background when she's still Amish. Amish lifestyle is fascinating to me.
I have been listening to this series since the beginning and absolutely love Kathleen McInerney's performance. She's especially good when it comes to children's voices.
Thank you Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for this DRC.
Available July 5th, 2022!
July 5, 2022
***HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY***
I have not read every book in this series but I enjoyed the ones that I did read. I needed a break from thrillers and I hoped this would be just the ticket!! I was right and I thoroughly enjoyed this novel!!
Kate Buckholder is the chief of police in the small town of Painter’s Mill. She gets a visit from two Amish bishops from the town where she grew up, Belleville. Some skeletal remains have been uncovered along with a rifle. The remains of those of past bishop Ananias Stoltzfus who has been missing for over a decade.
The police have taken Jonas Bowman into custody because he readily admitted that the rifle was his and it was known that he had some past and very public arguments with the bishop. The evidence is circumstantial and these bishops aren’t so sure they have the right man.
Kate and Jonas had a long ago high school romance but she has known Jonas since she was 6 years old. With this long history and Kate’s reputation of getting to the bottom of things, they ask her to come and help with the investigation – although it will not be in an official capacity. Kate was also raised Amish and can speak their language and knows their ways.
On her arrival she meets with Jonas and is convinced that he didn’t commit this crime. The police aren’t very happy with her digging around and with the exception of one deputy they aren’t willing to share what evidence they have, etc.
Kate has a way of making people open up to her and soon she is sure that there is much more to the story of Ananias Stoltzfus – he perhaps isn’t the man they thought they knew.
This is a very multi-layered plot and there is more action than I’ve ever read in this series before. Kate’s life is threatened several times but she never gives up. She uncovers secrets long buried and makes connections that others didn’t see.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK:
I enjoyed the way the author portrays the Amish people, without judgment and with honest explanations of their lifestyle and beliefs.
There is a lot of human emotion in this book. There are those who just want Jonas locked away because of things he did in his youth and those that are hiding secrets that are damaging.
The characters are well developed and the setting of the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside is well described.
This mystery was not easy to figure out and it wasn’t until the final pages that the pieces of this puzzle fell into place.
***HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY***
This is just a great mystery series with believable characters and the pacing was great.
I can absolutely recommend this novel to Ms. Castillos fans and others who want to investigate this wonderful series.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to read and review this title.
#TheHiddenOne
#Kate Burkholder
#Minotaurinfluencers
I have not read every book in this series but I enjoyed the ones that I did read. I needed a break from thrillers and I hoped this would be just the ticket!! I was right and I thoroughly enjoyed this novel!!
Kate Buckholder is the chief of police in the small town of Painter’s Mill. She gets a visit from two Amish bishops from the town where she grew up, Belleville. Some skeletal remains have been uncovered along with a rifle. The remains of those of past bishop Ananias Stoltzfus who has been missing for over a decade.
The police have taken Jonas Bowman into custody because he readily admitted that the rifle was his and it was known that he had some past and very public arguments with the bishop. The evidence is circumstantial and these bishops aren’t so sure they have the right man.
Kate and Jonas had a long ago high school romance but she has known Jonas since she was 6 years old. With this long history and Kate’s reputation of getting to the bottom of things, they ask her to come and help with the investigation – although it will not be in an official capacity. Kate was also raised Amish and can speak their language and knows their ways.
On her arrival she meets with Jonas and is convinced that he didn’t commit this crime. The police aren’t very happy with her digging around and with the exception of one deputy they aren’t willing to share what evidence they have, etc.
Kate has a way of making people open up to her and soon she is sure that there is much more to the story of Ananias Stoltzfus – he perhaps isn’t the man they thought they knew.
This is a very multi-layered plot and there is more action than I’ve ever read in this series before. Kate’s life is threatened several times but she never gives up. She uncovers secrets long buried and makes connections that others didn’t see.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK:
I enjoyed the way the author portrays the Amish people, without judgment and with honest explanations of their lifestyle and beliefs.
There is a lot of human emotion in this book. There are those who just want Jonas locked away because of things he did in his youth and those that are hiding secrets that are damaging.
The characters are well developed and the setting of the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside is well described.
This mystery was not easy to figure out and it wasn’t until the final pages that the pieces of this puzzle fell into place.
***HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY***
This is just a great mystery series with believable characters and the pacing was great.
I can absolutely recommend this novel to Ms. Castillos fans and others who want to investigate this wonderful series.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to read and review this title.
#TheHiddenOne
#Kate Burkholder
#Minotaurinfluencers
May 1, 2022
Both my wife and I enjoy reading this series. This book has Kate Burkholder going to Amish country in Pennsylvania. Three Amish bishops/elders come to visit her In Painters Mill, Ohio, where she is the police chief. They want her to go to Pennsylvania to investigate a murder. Jonas Bowman has been arrested for the murder of Ananias Stoltzfus and they believe that he is innocent. They have heard of Kate. They know that she grew up Amish, but left the fold as a teenager. They know that she is a very good investigator. Jonas and Kate have history and this is explained through flashback chapters interspersed throughout the book.
Because of this history, Kate decides to take a few days off and go to Lancaster County, Pa,., to investigate. She is attacked several times while there, and always miraculously survives, a recurring theme is this series.
This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend that you read them in order, as there are developments in Kate's personal life as the series progresses.
One quote: A bit of humor: "Buggy horse took a crap in the street," he tells me. "Lady in the RAV stepped in it." "Bet that didn't go over very well," I mutter as I squeeze between two teenage boys who've stopped to see what all the excitement is about.
Joe's mouth twitches. "She's pissed, Chief. Went over to to confront him. Just about tore my head off when I told her to move her car."
We both rate it 4 bright stars and plan to keep reading this series.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
Because of this history, Kate decides to take a few days off and go to Lancaster County, Pa,., to investigate. She is attacked several times while there, and always miraculously survives, a recurring theme is this series.
This book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend that you read them in order, as there are developments in Kate's personal life as the series progresses.
One quote: A bit of humor: "Buggy horse took a crap in the street," he tells me. "Lady in the RAV stepped in it." "Bet that didn't go over very well," I mutter as I squeeze between two teenage boys who've stopped to see what all the excitement is about.
Joe's mouth twitches. "She's pissed, Chief. Went over to to confront him. Just about tore my head off when I told her to move her car."
We both rate it 4 bright stars and plan to keep reading this series.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
June 3, 2022
Once again we’re treated to another day in the life of Painters Mill, Sheriff Kate Burkholder. And as we would expect, she’s charging into the frontline of danger…solo! Some things never change! But that’s why we love her! Headstrong, fearless, she is one tough cookie!
After receiving a visit from the elders of an Amish community in Pennsylvania, Kate's memories are jogged of her life before leaving the Amish life behind. More importantly, it took her back to her first love, Jonas Bowman.
And presently, Jonas is in a teensy bit of trouble. He’s been charged with the murder of his former Bishop. (Now that’s bad Karma!) A man that had been missing for years until his body was recently discovered. The elders are hoping that given Kate's police background and knowledge of Amish life, she can aid in helping to free Jonas. I suppose it doesn’t hurt that the two have a history!😉
Does Katie find herself in trouble in her attempt to free Jonas? Well of course she does! We’d expect nothing less from her!
This is book fourteen of my hands-down favorite series! It would easily work as a stand-alone, but you’d be missing so much! I highly recommend starting at the beginning!
Already looking forward to next years’ release!
A buddy read with Susanne! That we both enjoyed!
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books.
After receiving a visit from the elders of an Amish community in Pennsylvania, Kate's memories are jogged of her life before leaving the Amish life behind. More importantly, it took her back to her first love, Jonas Bowman.
And presently, Jonas is in a teensy bit of trouble. He’s been charged with the murder of his former Bishop. (Now that’s bad Karma!) A man that had been missing for years until his body was recently discovered. The elders are hoping that given Kate's police background and knowledge of Amish life, she can aid in helping to free Jonas. I suppose it doesn’t hurt that the two have a history!😉
Does Katie find herself in trouble in her attempt to free Jonas? Well of course she does! We’d expect nothing less from her!
This is book fourteen of my hands-down favorite series! It would easily work as a stand-alone, but you’d be missing so much! I highly recommend starting at the beginning!
Already looking forward to next years’ release!
A buddy read with Susanne! That we both enjoyed!
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books.
May 27, 2025
This is an Amish Mystery Suspense/Thriller, and this is the 14th book in the Kate Burkholder series. I have read and reviewed all the other books in this series before reading this book. Even though I enjoyed the other books in this series I do feel you can read this book as a standalone, but you will be missing the character development that happens in other books. This book is all about Kate helping an Amish man that was her first love, and we get flashbacks of when she was Amish throughout this book. I really loved this book. I loved getting more of Kate's backstory. The mystery in this book was really good and kept me on my toes guessing what was going to happen. I loved the characters in this book. Kate's character has done so much growing and changing throughout this series, and I love her character how she is now. I think this book is my favorite Kate Burkholder book so far. I re-read this book by listening to the audiobook, and I really loved the narrator. I was kindly provided an e-copy and e-audiobook of this book by the publisher (Minotaur Books) or author (Linda Castillo) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
July 6, 2022
5 past love stars
My favorite female and formerly Amish police chief is back for installment #14! I am amazed that Linda Castillo continues to find new adventures for her resilient chief!
This time Kate is headed to a small town in Pennsylvania because an old friend is in jail on murder charges. A body has been discovered from a cold case 18 years ago. The bones belong to an Amish bishop and Kate’s old friend Jonas had a very public fight with him shortly before he turned up missing.
Now that the body has been found and Jonas admitted that the gun next to the body was his as well, he’s been arrested and is now in jail. The local Amish leaders invite Kate to help her old friend as things are looking quite bleak for Jonas. The local Pennsylvania police force isn’t very cooperative with Kate, but soon she has stirred up enough trouble trying to unearth old clues that her life is in danger.
This one builds to a vintage showdown, and I was quite surprised at the real culprit. As usual, Kate ends up battered and bruised and two vehicles are damaged.
My favorite part of this one was the last chapter when she returns home to Painters Mill and Tomasetti.
My gratitude to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this one. Now available. Of course, I'm eagerly awaiting the next one in the installment.
My favorite female and formerly Amish police chief is back for installment #14! I am amazed that Linda Castillo continues to find new adventures for her resilient chief!
This time Kate is headed to a small town in Pennsylvania because an old friend is in jail on murder charges. A body has been discovered from a cold case 18 years ago. The bones belong to an Amish bishop and Kate’s old friend Jonas had a very public fight with him shortly before he turned up missing.
Now that the body has been found and Jonas admitted that the gun next to the body was his as well, he’s been arrested and is now in jail. The local Amish leaders invite Kate to help her old friend as things are looking quite bleak for Jonas. The local Pennsylvania police force isn’t very cooperative with Kate, but soon she has stirred up enough trouble trying to unearth old clues that her life is in danger.
This one builds to a vintage showdown, and I was quite surprised at the real culprit. As usual, Kate ends up battered and bruised and two vehicles are damaged.
My favorite part of this one was the last chapter when she returns home to Painters Mill and Tomasetti.
My gratitude to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this one. Now available. Of course, I'm eagerly awaiting the next one in the installment.
July 5, 2022
This outing takes Kate out of Painters Creek where she is sheriff, and into her past. When asked by a Bishop from a different ordang to come and see if she can help someone she once knew very well now being held for murder, she agrees. Though doubtful of how much help she can be, her curiousity and belief in his innocence brings her face to face with an important part of her past. It also exposes her to danger as there are many secrets being kept.
Less violent than her last few, plus we add get additional information about Kate as a young girl, when she was still part of the Amish community. The 14th in series and it still maintains my interest. One to which I look forward.
Narration by McInerney was well done.
Less violent than her last few, plus we add get additional information about Kate as a young girl, when she was still part of the Amish community. The 14th in series and it still maintains my interest. One to which I look forward.
Narration by McInerney was well done.
August 10, 2025
Could. Not. Put. Down.
Fast-paced, action packed thriller based on a murder that occurred in Amish country 18 years ago.
Author Linda Castillo kept me glued to the edge of my seat. The Chief of Police is a strong, assertive, determined woman.
Highly recommend!
Fast-paced, action packed thriller based on a murder that occurred in Amish country 18 years ago.
Author Linda Castillo kept me glued to the edge of my seat. The Chief of Police is a strong, assertive, determined woman.
Highly recommend!
July 15, 2022
The Hidden One by Linda Castillo was the first book that I have read in this series. It read well as a stand-alone book but I will definitely seek out her previous books in this series. I found The Hidden One to be well paced with a gripping plot that was chock full of surprising twists. The characters were well developed and even though I had no prior background about them I found them easy to relate to and follow. I enjoyed the descriptions and unique customs that Linda Castillo wove within the context of the plot about the Amish people and their lives. It was fast paced and kept my attention from the first page to the last. The chapters alternated between past and present to allow an understanding of the history that evolved prior to present day.
Kate Burkholder grew up in Painters Mill, Ohio in an Amish family. She realized early on that she struggled with many of the rules and ways of life of the Amish. Kate chose to leave the fold and live her life under her own terms. She became the Chief of Police of Painters Mill. On an ordinary day off, Kate was out doing errands when she got a phone call from the precinct with the most unusual request. Elders from an Amish community in Pennsylvania had come to seek out her help in an investigation of one of theirs’. Someone in their Amish community was being charged with murder. It was someone Kate had known for practically her whole life. Jonas, the boy she had known since she was six years old and her first love, was being charged with the murder of Ananias Stolzfus, the Bishop of the Amish community where Jonas now lived. Kate had not seen or thought about Jonas in a very long time. She did not know what type of man he had become but she couldn’t imagine that the Jonas she knew would be capable of committing murder. Kate agreed to travel to Pennsylvania to try and help prove that Jonas did not commit the crime he was being investigated for. Upon her arrival in Pennsylvania, Kate was met with obstacle after obstacle. The local police were determined to offer her as little information as possible about the case. Kate was met with an excessive lack of cooperation from the local police. She soon discovered that someone was targeting her. Someone was afraid that Kate was getting too close to discovering the truth about a long kept secret and wanted her to go back from where she came from. Kate was physically attacked, her car was vandalized and she was almost killed when her car was forced off the road and over a dangerous cliff. Despite all the close and dangerous situations Kate faced she was adamant about not giving up. Knowing the ways and language of the Amish helped Kate gain information that might not have been shared with outsiders. Would Kate be able to discover whether Jonas was guilty of the crime he was suspected of committing? How would Kate react to seeing Jonas again after his abrupt departure all those years ago? How would Janas’ family feel about her and how would Kate feel about them? I recommend you read The Hidden One to discover the answers to all these questions. I recommend this book very highly.
Thank you to Minotaur Books/St. Martin’s Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read The Hidden One by Linda Castillo through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Kate Burkholder grew up in Painters Mill, Ohio in an Amish family. She realized early on that she struggled with many of the rules and ways of life of the Amish. Kate chose to leave the fold and live her life under her own terms. She became the Chief of Police of Painters Mill. On an ordinary day off, Kate was out doing errands when she got a phone call from the precinct with the most unusual request. Elders from an Amish community in Pennsylvania had come to seek out her help in an investigation of one of theirs’. Someone in their Amish community was being charged with murder. It was someone Kate had known for practically her whole life. Jonas, the boy she had known since she was six years old and her first love, was being charged with the murder of Ananias Stolzfus, the Bishop of the Amish community where Jonas now lived. Kate had not seen or thought about Jonas in a very long time. She did not know what type of man he had become but she couldn’t imagine that the Jonas she knew would be capable of committing murder. Kate agreed to travel to Pennsylvania to try and help prove that Jonas did not commit the crime he was being investigated for. Upon her arrival in Pennsylvania, Kate was met with obstacle after obstacle. The local police were determined to offer her as little information as possible about the case. Kate was met with an excessive lack of cooperation from the local police. She soon discovered that someone was targeting her. Someone was afraid that Kate was getting too close to discovering the truth about a long kept secret and wanted her to go back from where she came from. Kate was physically attacked, her car was vandalized and she was almost killed when her car was forced off the road and over a dangerous cliff. Despite all the close and dangerous situations Kate faced she was adamant about not giving up. Knowing the ways and language of the Amish helped Kate gain information that might not have been shared with outsiders. Would Kate be able to discover whether Jonas was guilty of the crime he was suspected of committing? How would Kate react to seeing Jonas again after his abrupt departure all those years ago? How would Janas’ family feel about her and how would Kate feel about them? I recommend you read The Hidden One to discover the answers to all these questions. I recommend this book very highly.
Thank you to Minotaur Books/St. Martin’s Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read The Hidden One by Linda Castillo through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 21, 2022
The fourteenth book in the series introduces a character from Kate's past. Jonas Bowman was the object of Kate's first crush and the two had a serious relationship before his family had to move away. Now Kate has been asked to help prove that Jonas is not responsible for the death of an Amish Bishop. Kate has to travel to another town and attempt to investigate a murder out of her own jurisdiction.
I really enjoyed following Kate's investigations which were smart and well planned. She understands of course how the system works, and even when the local police attempt to shut her out she still makes headway. It helps of course that she is like a dog with a bone and she never gives up. The pacing was excellent and it was very hard to stop reading.
I guessed the victim's past much sooner than Kate did but both of us were equally surprised by the identity of the killer. Kate's propensity to near death experiences has irritated me in some previous books but for some reason did not bother me at all in this one. This despite the fact that she nearly dies on four separate occasions.
However I am pretty sure it is not a spoiler to say that she lives, and returns in one piece to Tomasetti. There is a cute ending and I look forward to the author writing more books in this series.
I really enjoyed following Kate's investigations which were smart and well planned. She understands of course how the system works, and even when the local police attempt to shut her out she still makes headway. It helps of course that she is like a dog with a bone and she never gives up. The pacing was excellent and it was very hard to stop reading.
I guessed the victim's past much sooner than Kate did but both of us were equally surprised by the identity of the killer. Kate's propensity to near death experiences has irritated me in some previous books but for some reason did not bother me at all in this one. This despite the fact that she nearly dies on four separate occasions.
However I am pretty sure it is not a spoiler to say that she lives, and returns in one piece to Tomasetti. There is a cute ending and I look forward to the author writing more books in this series.
May 30, 2022
My thanks to St. Martin's press, Linda Castillo and Netgalley.
I decided to read this book because I have a few Goodreads friends who have read and enjoyed this series. I'm glad I finally gave this series a go.
That being said, the mystery part of this book was o.k. The big bad was a tad predictable.
Still, what made this book sing was Katie. I absolutely love her, and want to know more.
I'll admit that Ms. Castillo can set a scene!
Also, the Amish farmhouses.
I decided to read this book because I have a few Goodreads friends who have read and enjoyed this series. I'm glad I finally gave this series a go.
That being said, the mystery part of this book was o.k. The big bad was a tad predictable.
Still, what made this book sing was Katie. I absolutely love her, and want to know more.
I'll admit that Ms. Castillo can set a scene!
Also, the Amish farmhouses.
December 1, 2022
the setup…
Police Chief Kate Burkholder has to face someone from her past when three Amish elders from Belleville, Pennsylvania approach her for help. One of their own is accused of murder, a man with whom she has a history. Almost eighteen years ago, Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus disappeared without a trace…until now when his remains were discovered. Jonas Bowman, the man charged with killing him, was Kate’s first love when he and his family lived in Painter’s Mill. Now she has to determine if the man she knew as a young girl could be a murderer as the evidence is damning.
the heart of the story…
One of the aspects of this series I’ve come to appreciate are those times when people from Kate’s past reappear and we learn a lot more about her and why she left the Amish community. The case itself was extremely interesting, too, but I was just as drawn to the story of Kate and Jonas’ past. Her involvement was sticky on a lot of levels, especially since she wasn’t even certain of Jonas’ innocence and local law enforcement wasn't rolling out the welcome mat. There were so many layers to the case and it took some really dangerous turns, most particularly for Kate. But it was the tension between Jonas and Kate as they met for the first time since they were teens that had me edgy.
the narration…
McInerney had her work cut out for her with this story as there were a host of characters requiring distinction. She handled them all with perfection and of course her storytelling was on par. I will always listen to this series.
the bottom line…
I knew Kate was going to be in the middle of some dangerous situations and was prepared, particularly because she wasn’t on her home turf and was alone. Things did get nasty for her, some self imposed and others not at all. I had hunches about who murdered the bishop but didn’t know the why. The case was really twisty and I was hooked through the end. But it was the little reward also at the end involving Kate personally that left me so very satisfied. A nice bow since I’m now up to date in the series and will have to wait until next year for more.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Police Chief Kate Burkholder has to face someone from her past when three Amish elders from Belleville, Pennsylvania approach her for help. One of their own is accused of murder, a man with whom she has a history. Almost eighteen years ago, Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus disappeared without a trace…until now when his remains were discovered. Jonas Bowman, the man charged with killing him, was Kate’s first love when he and his family lived in Painter’s Mill. Now she has to determine if the man she knew as a young girl could be a murderer as the evidence is damning.
the heart of the story…
One of the aspects of this series I’ve come to appreciate are those times when people from Kate’s past reappear and we learn a lot more about her and why she left the Amish community. The case itself was extremely interesting, too, but I was just as drawn to the story of Kate and Jonas’ past. Her involvement was sticky on a lot of levels, especially since she wasn’t even certain of Jonas’ innocence and local law enforcement wasn't rolling out the welcome mat. There were so many layers to the case and it took some really dangerous turns, most particularly for Kate. But it was the tension between Jonas and Kate as they met for the first time since they were teens that had me edgy.
the narration…
McInerney had her work cut out for her with this story as there were a host of characters requiring distinction. She handled them all with perfection and of course her storytelling was on par. I will always listen to this series.
the bottom line…
I knew Kate was going to be in the middle of some dangerous situations and was prepared, particularly because she wasn’t on her home turf and was alone. Things did get nasty for her, some self imposed and others not at all. I had hunches about who murdered the bishop but didn’t know the why. The case was really twisty and I was hooked through the end. But it was the little reward also at the end involving Kate personally that left me so very satisfied. A nice bow since I’m now up to date in the series and will have to wait until next year for more.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
June 29, 2022
I had not read a book in this series prior to reading this one. It worked very well as a stand-alone book for me.
The body of a missing Amish bishop has been found and chief of police Kate Burkholder has been asked by the town's elders for help. This one hit close to home for Kate as the man accused of killing the man was her first love, Jonas Bowman. Kate travels to the Kishacoquillas Valley to do her own investigation.
The murder victim was not a well-liked man. In fact, as the book progresses readers and audiobook listeners learn more about not only the murdered man but also about Kate's past and her relationship with Jonas. Who says you can never go home again? But will going back put Kate in danger? Someone does not want her asking questions, but who?
I enjoyed this audiobook but could not help but notice how many times "Amish" was said. A LOT. I thought if I were to take a drink of dandelion wine (read the book) every time "Amish" was said, well, let's just say, I would not want to do that!
I enjoyed this book and as I mentioned, it worked very well as a stand-alone book for me. I enjoyed learning about Kate's past and her relationship with Jonas. I also enjoyed how the story played out and I can honestly say I did not see that reveal coming!
I'm sure fans of the series will enjoy this and if you have not read this series, it's a worthwhile and enjoyable read/listen.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
The body of a missing Amish bishop has been found and chief of police Kate Burkholder has been asked by the town's elders for help. This one hit close to home for Kate as the man accused of killing the man was her first love, Jonas Bowman. Kate travels to the Kishacoquillas Valley to do her own investigation.
The murder victim was not a well-liked man. In fact, as the book progresses readers and audiobook listeners learn more about not only the murdered man but also about Kate's past and her relationship with Jonas. Who says you can never go home again? But will going back put Kate in danger? Someone does not want her asking questions, but who?
I enjoyed this audiobook but could not help but notice how many times "Amish" was said. A LOT. I thought if I were to take a drink of dandelion wine (read the book) every time "Amish" was said, well, let's just say, I would not want to do that!
I enjoyed this book and as I mentioned, it worked very well as a stand-alone book for me. I enjoyed learning about Kate's past and her relationship with Jonas. I also enjoyed how the story played out and I can honestly say I did not see that reveal coming!
I'm sure fans of the series will enjoy this and if you have not read this series, it's a worthwhile and enjoyable read/listen.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
May 1, 2022
One of my recent favorites in the Kate Burkholder series! I thought this one was on par with some of the earlier books, and had a fresh feeling, which for me has been lacking in some of her recent books.
When Kate's high school sweetheart, Jonas Bowman, moved away abruptly when she was a teenager, she was crushed and has always felt guilty for her role in his leaving Painter's Mill. When she learns that he is arrested for the murder of his bishop, the elected elders of his community ask Kate to help prove his innocence. Although she has no standing in Pennsylvania, Kate gives her word to the elders that she will help him and begins investigating as a regular citizen to uncover the truth about who killed the Bishop. Unfortunately for Kate, local law enforcement is not eager to share information with an outsider, especially an ex-Amish police chief, and the family of the bishop firmly believes Jonas is the murderer and fights her at every step. It doesn't take long for Kate to discover that the bishop had a cruel streak and was not well-liked, providing an abundance of suspects and one of them will go to nothing to keep Jonas behind bars.
I really liked the back story into Kate's life as an Amish pre-teen/teen. I thought it added even more depth to her character, and honestly, I was ready for a break from the Kate/Tomasetti love story, so to read about her "first love" was interesting. I also like that it was a change of scenery - I love Painter's Mill and Kate's team, but honestly, for a small town, there are more murders there than in any big city, so I was glad Painter's Mill got to rest easy for a change! 😂 I thought the puzzle pieces were complex and didn't really come together until the final pages of the book, which is always a plus as well!
Overall, definitely one of the best books in this series by the brilliant Linda Castillo! I'm already looking forward to #15! 4 stars.
When Kate's high school sweetheart, Jonas Bowman, moved away abruptly when she was a teenager, she was crushed and has always felt guilty for her role in his leaving Painter's Mill. When she learns that he is arrested for the murder of his bishop, the elected elders of his community ask Kate to help prove his innocence. Although she has no standing in Pennsylvania, Kate gives her word to the elders that she will help him and begins investigating as a regular citizen to uncover the truth about who killed the Bishop. Unfortunately for Kate, local law enforcement is not eager to share information with an outsider, especially an ex-Amish police chief, and the family of the bishop firmly believes Jonas is the murderer and fights her at every step. It doesn't take long for Kate to discover that the bishop had a cruel streak and was not well-liked, providing an abundance of suspects and one of them will go to nothing to keep Jonas behind bars.
I really liked the back story into Kate's life as an Amish pre-teen/teen. I thought it added even more depth to her character, and honestly, I was ready for a break from the Kate/Tomasetti love story, so to read about her "first love" was interesting. I also like that it was a change of scenery - I love Painter's Mill and Kate's team, but honestly, for a small town, there are more murders there than in any big city, so I was glad Painter's Mill got to rest easy for a change! 😂 I thought the puzzle pieces were complex and didn't really come together until the final pages of the book, which is always a plus as well!
Overall, definitely one of the best books in this series by the brilliant Linda Castillo! I'm already looking forward to #15! 4 stars.
June 12, 2022
Another winner from Linda Castillo! If you love the Kate Burkholder series, this new installment is sure to please.
When remains of an Amish Bishop are found in another town, Kate Burkholder is called upon for help. The suspect is a former friend of Kate's and if she doesn't do something fast, he's going to be sent to prison for the rest of his life!
When Kate goes digging around where she doesn't belong, trouble ensues. What else is new?
Though this series is a tad formulaic, I admit to loving it.
3.75 stars
A buddy read with Kaceey that we both enjoyed.
Thanks to Minotaur Books for the galley, and the e-galley via Netgalley and thanks to Macmillan Audio for the alc.
When remains of an Amish Bishop are found in another town, Kate Burkholder is called upon for help. The suspect is a former friend of Kate's and if she doesn't do something fast, he's going to be sent to prison for the rest of his life!
When Kate goes digging around where she doesn't belong, trouble ensues. What else is new?
Though this series is a tad formulaic, I admit to loving it.
3.75 stars
A buddy read with Kaceey that we both enjoyed.
Thanks to Minotaur Books for the galley, and the e-galley via Netgalley and thanks to Macmillan Audio for the alc.
November 26, 2022
As Chief of Police of Painters Mill, Kate Burkholder, travelled to Pennsylvania’s Kishacoquillas Valley after being asked by three of the town's elders to help solve the murder of Amish bishop, Ananias Stoltzfus, Kate wondered at the arrest of an old and dear friend. Jonas Bowman moved to Pennsylvania twenty years prior, and was married with children now. But with the bishop's bones having recently been discovered after he'd been missing for eighteen years, and Jonas' old gun found beside the body, it was obvious to the police that he'd done the deed. But Kate wasn't convinced.
After interviewing Jonas, Kate travelled to his home to meet his family. Then began her investigation and although not welcomed by the police of the area, Kate was determined to discover the answers. The anomalies were adding up, and when she was attacked, she knew she was on the right track. But the case was cold, she was stymied on all sides - could she do it?
The Hidden One is #14 in the Kate Burkholder series by Linda Castillo and it was brilliant! Newly released this year, I feel this one is one of her best. Kate was on her own this time, without the support of her team and Tomasetti. Her experience and judgment worked well for her, and her strength in finding justice was high. I flew through The Hidden One in a matter of hours, and am looking forward to #15 already. Highly recommended.
After interviewing Jonas, Kate travelled to his home to meet his family. Then began her investigation and although not welcomed by the police of the area, Kate was determined to discover the answers. The anomalies were adding up, and when she was attacked, she knew she was on the right track. But the case was cold, she was stymied on all sides - could she do it?
The Hidden One is #14 in the Kate Burkholder series by Linda Castillo and it was brilliant! Newly released this year, I feel this one is one of her best. Kate was on her own this time, without the support of her team and Tomasetti. Her experience and judgment worked well for her, and her strength in finding justice was high. I flew through The Hidden One in a matter of hours, and am looking forward to #15 already. Highly recommended.
April 20, 2022
Time flies when you’re having fun, and Linda Castillo seems to be having fun with her Kate Burkholder series. She’s just finished her 14th installment of this popular Amish mystery series with The Hidden One. For readers like me, who have read each of the previous novels, it’s a bit sad to see Kate leave her team behind and head to Pennsylvania, where a childhood friend has been accused of murder. We barely get to see the Painter’s Mill, Ohio, gang – Glock, T.J., Pickles, Margaret, Skid, and Mona. Heck, we don’t see much of the Chief’s live-in-lover either, John Tomasetti.
The Diener – elected officials of the church district – from Belleville, Pennsylvania, pay a visit to Kate and ask her to help one of their own, Jonas Bowman, who has been arrested for the murder of an elderly Amish man, Ananias Stoltzfus. Kate is shocked. While she’s not seen Jonas for many years, the idea that he could have killed someone is unfathomable. The two were friends, close friends growing up. She has no official standing in Pennsylvania, but she vows to do whatever she can to help Jonas.
In the Prologue, we see the death occur. What we don’t see is who kills the former bishop. Throughout the novel, we begin to see conflicting pieces of the man’s life, his strict adherence to Amish principles, but, according to some, his temper and even violent behavior. Kate wonders, could this have provoked someone. Even so, no one deserves to be murdered. To the family and community, Stoltzfus wandered off and disappeared. His body was found 18 years later. He’d been shot twice. An old musket was next to him in a shallow grave.
What about Jonas? As Kate meets with Jonas, her heart and mind flash back to many times during her childhood and teenage years. She was a strong-willed child who was conflicted about what it meant to be Amish, to live by the rules, to be female within Amish culture. With adolescence, this became a struggle, especially when an older, attractive young man sent shock waves through her body and soul. Eventually, Jonas and his family were sent away, and Kate blamed herself.
Fortunately for Kate, she has a strong, understanding man in Tomasetti. He is confident in their relationship, in her.
As for the murder charges, local law enforcement is not eager to share with an outsider, and the family of the deceased resents her interference. As far as they are concerned, the killer is where he belongs.
This was one of my favorite books in the entire series. It flows so well from one scene to another. As in each Burkholder book, there are memories from Kate’s past. This time, they are bittersweet, but she is able to put them aside, knowing that she has someone special to go home to. Don’t think it’s all smooth sailing, however. Kate wouldn’t be Kate if trouble didn’t find her. And it does, more than once. As usual, it’s nothing she can’t handle.
I received an ARC version of The Hidden One from NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review. Thanks also to Minotaur Books and the author. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 stars
The Diener – elected officials of the church district – from Belleville, Pennsylvania, pay a visit to Kate and ask her to help one of their own, Jonas Bowman, who has been arrested for the murder of an elderly Amish man, Ananias Stoltzfus. Kate is shocked. While she’s not seen Jonas for many years, the idea that he could have killed someone is unfathomable. The two were friends, close friends growing up. She has no official standing in Pennsylvania, but she vows to do whatever she can to help Jonas.
In the Prologue, we see the death occur. What we don’t see is who kills the former bishop. Throughout the novel, we begin to see conflicting pieces of the man’s life, his strict adherence to Amish principles, but, according to some, his temper and even violent behavior. Kate wonders, could this have provoked someone. Even so, no one deserves to be murdered. To the family and community, Stoltzfus wandered off and disappeared. His body was found 18 years later. He’d been shot twice. An old musket was next to him in a shallow grave.
What about Jonas? As Kate meets with Jonas, her heart and mind flash back to many times during her childhood and teenage years. She was a strong-willed child who was conflicted about what it meant to be Amish, to live by the rules, to be female within Amish culture. With adolescence, this became a struggle, especially when an older, attractive young man sent shock waves through her body and soul. Eventually, Jonas and his family were sent away, and Kate blamed herself.
Fortunately for Kate, she has a strong, understanding man in Tomasetti. He is confident in their relationship, in her.
As for the murder charges, local law enforcement is not eager to share with an outsider, and the family of the deceased resents her interference. As far as they are concerned, the killer is where he belongs.
This was one of my favorite books in the entire series. It flows so well from one scene to another. As in each Burkholder book, there are memories from Kate’s past. This time, they are bittersweet, but she is able to put them aside, knowing that she has someone special to go home to. Don’t think it’s all smooth sailing, however. Kate wouldn’t be Kate if trouble didn’t find her. And it does, more than once. As usual, it’s nothing she can’t handle.
I received an ARC version of The Hidden One from NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review. Thanks also to Minotaur Books and the author. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.5 stars
July 10, 2022
I loved this 14th book in Linda Castillo's "Kate Burkholder" series!
One of my all-time favourite series!
Kate Burkholder is the Chief of Police in Painters Mill. One day she is approached by two Amish bishops from the town in Pennsylvania where she grew up. Skeletal remains of a bishop that disappeared 18 years earlier have been uncovered and Kate has been asked for her assistance with this cold case investigation. She agrees and quickly discovers the man charged with the crime is her childhood first love.
A captivating plot and suspenseful read!
It is always a pleasure to revisit the characters I have become quite attached to in Painters Mill. However, this novel focuses more on Kate than any of the others.
I can hardly wait for the next Kate Burkholder novel.
Once again narrator Kathleen McInerney does a superb job telling this story!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
One of my all-time favourite series!
Kate Burkholder is the Chief of Police in Painters Mill. One day she is approached by two Amish bishops from the town in Pennsylvania where she grew up. Skeletal remains of a bishop that disappeared 18 years earlier have been uncovered and Kate has been asked for her assistance with this cold case investigation. She agrees and quickly discovers the man charged with the crime is her childhood first love.
A captivating plot and suspenseful read!
It is always a pleasure to revisit the characters I have become quite attached to in Painters Mill. However, this novel focuses more on Kate than any of the others.
I can hardly wait for the next Kate Burkholder novel.
Once again narrator Kathleen McInerney does a superb job telling this story!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
June 7, 2022
3.5 Stars
This book series has become comfort reads. The story and writing is predictable but I don't care. I will keep reading as long as she keeps writing.
This book series has become comfort reads. The story and writing is predictable but I don't care. I will keep reading as long as she keeps writing.
June 14, 2024
This is the second book I have read recently that revolve around the Amish. It also introduced me to Kate Burkholder, a police detective and a former member of the Amish community.
When a bishop's remains, who had been missing for quite a time, are found in a newly acquired pasture, Kate is called in to investigate because of her former Amish roots. Her former love interest, Jonas Bowman, is accused of the murder of Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus, a supposed loved member of the community. His disappearance ten years ago set the community worrying and Jonas on the eventual path of being called a murderer.
However, Stoltzfus was no saint, and as Kate investigates, some forces seem to be against her and quite threatening. Her memories are also triggered as she again in thrown into an Amish community and her former love.
Someone did kill Stolzfus and the list of possibles seem to grown as more is discovered about the man who was a supposed saint but really a sinner.
When a bishop's remains, who had been missing for quite a time, are found in a newly acquired pasture, Kate is called in to investigate because of her former Amish roots. Her former love interest, Jonas Bowman, is accused of the murder of Amish bishop Ananias Stoltzfus, a supposed loved member of the community. His disappearance ten years ago set the community worrying and Jonas on the eventual path of being called a murderer.
However, Stoltzfus was no saint, and as Kate investigates, some forces seem to be against her and quite threatening. Her memories are also triggered as she again in thrown into an Amish community and her former love.
Someone did kill Stolzfus and the list of possibles seem to grown as more is discovered about the man who was a supposed saint but really a sinner.
August 6, 2022
*3.5* This series continues to be engaging, intense, and also oddly heartwarming for all the brutal murders.
The set up is Painters Mill Police Chief Kate Burkholder leaves town to investigate a murder. The prime suspect is someone she's grown up with, and has strong emotions connected to him. I missed all the usual characters in this one, but mostly Tomasetti. There is a quite strength to him that balances Kate's somewhat reckless behavior. I really need at least one romantic scene with them, there are none in this book.
Yes, this story is a bit predictable, with Kate getting physically hurt at the end of every book, but I don't care.
What niggled at the back of my mind was the reshaping of Kate's childhood. Earlier books cover the horrors that happened to her at 14. This book attempts to show her as an almost normal, healthy teenager at 15. I can't imagine teenage Kate would have been able to recover so quickly when longtime readers know how her childhood abuse clung to every part of her adult life.
As a standalone, it was pretty good, but as part of the series, it didn't make sense. Other than that, I love these characters, and will continue to read the series until Kate and Tomasetti are in the old folks home, sitting in rocking chairs, hands clasped.
Big thanks to St. Martin's press, Linda Castillo and Netgalley for the ARC.
The set up is Painters Mill Police Chief Kate Burkholder leaves town to investigate a murder. The prime suspect is someone she's grown up with, and has strong emotions connected to him. I missed all the usual characters in this one, but mostly Tomasetti. There is a quite strength to him that balances Kate's somewhat reckless behavior. I really need at least one romantic scene with them, there are none in this book.
Yes, this story is a bit predictable, with Kate getting physically hurt at the end of every book, but I don't care.
What niggled at the back of my mind was the reshaping of Kate's childhood. Earlier books cover the horrors that happened to her at 14. This book attempts to show her as an almost normal, healthy teenager at 15. I can't imagine teenage Kate would have been able to recover so quickly when longtime readers know how her childhood abuse clung to every part of her adult life.
As a standalone, it was pretty good, but as part of the series, it didn't make sense. Other than that, I love these characters, and will continue to read the series until Kate and Tomasetti are in the old folks home, sitting in rocking chairs, hands clasped.
Big thanks to St. Martin's press, Linda Castillo and Netgalley for the ARC.
April 7, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Another great addition in the Kate Burkholder series! "The Hidden One" is book 14 and I have been a fan since book 1!
An old friend of Kate's is being accused of murder. An 18 year old cold case involving the death of the bishop. Kate heads to Pennsylvania to try to help in the investigation. The more Kate investigates however, the more dark secrets are revealed about the bishop and as Kate gets closer to discovering the truth, someone seems desperate to quiet her.
I will admit, I did miss her team. Pickles, Mona and Glock were not really involved in this one but I look forward to reuniting with them in book 15! A solid suspenseful addition to this series, I will be here for the next one!
A huge thank you to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and Linda Castillo for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book!
An old friend of Kate's is being accused of murder. An 18 year old cold case involving the death of the bishop. Kate heads to Pennsylvania to try to help in the investigation. The more Kate investigates however, the more dark secrets are revealed about the bishop and as Kate gets closer to discovering the truth, someone seems desperate to quiet her.
I will admit, I did miss her team. Pickles, Mona and Glock were not really involved in this one but I look forward to reuniting with them in book 15! A solid suspenseful addition to this series, I will be here for the next one!
A huge thank you to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and Linda Castillo for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book!
July 12, 2022
4.5 stars.
Exciting prologue! Now, 18 years later....
Three Amish elders from Pennsylvania visit Painters Mill, Ohio's Chief of Police Kate Burkholder. They ask her to look into a case where Jonas Bowman has been arrested for the murder of a bishop 18 years earlier. Why so long for the arrest? The bishop disappeared but the bones have only now been discovered. Since Jonas was her first love twenty years ago, Kate agrees to look into the case unofficially as her badge gives her no authority in Pennsylvania.
This is a series where I've read every book from the first. For me, the stories are still fresh. You could read this book without the others but I highly recommend you start with #1 Sworn to Silence so you can love the characters as much as I do. I would love to find time to go back and re-read all these books - they're just that good. I loved the ending in this one.
Exciting prologue! Now, 18 years later....
Three Amish elders from Pennsylvania visit Painters Mill, Ohio's Chief of Police Kate Burkholder. They ask her to look into a case where Jonas Bowman has been arrested for the murder of a bishop 18 years earlier. Why so long for the arrest? The bishop disappeared but the bones have only now been discovered. Since Jonas was her first love twenty years ago, Kate agrees to look into the case unofficially as her badge gives her no authority in Pennsylvania.
This is a series where I've read every book from the first. For me, the stories are still fresh. You could read this book without the others but I highly recommend you start with #1 Sworn to Silence so you can love the characters as much as I do. I would love to find time to go back and re-read all these books - they're just that good. I loved the ending in this one.
March 20, 2022
The Hidden One is the 14th book in the Kate Burkholder series. I have read all of them from the first, Sworn to Silence. Kate Burkholder is the main character who is the police chief in the town of Painter Mill, Ohio. It is a town that has a lot of Amish living there. Kate was Amish but left when she was 18 years old. She was hired because she understands them. The supporting characters have been in the stories from the first book. along with the new ones that add to the story. While in town Kate gets a call from her dispatcher that there are three Amish men waiting to see her at the police station. Nelson Yoder, bishop over at Belleville, PA along with Nathan Kempf, deacon and Mahon Barkman, one of the ministers in the valley. They tell Kate that a body was discovered on Doyle Schlabach's farm. The dead person is Ananias Stoltzfus who was a bishop who disappeared 18 years ago. He was shot twice. A muzzle loader gun that killed him belonged to Jonas Bowman. Jonas had grown up in Painter Mill. He and Kate shared a past. They would like Kate to come to PA to help. This is where the story takes the reader on an adventure to find out who and why the bishop was killed. Kate comes up against many obstacles including no help from the police, being attacked in her motel room, two car accidents, etc. The end is an exciting climax to a surprising ending.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for this ARC.
July 12, 2022
This is my first time reading an episode of the Kate Burkholder series by Linda Castillo, set in Amish country in Ohio. While Kate has left the Amish world behind as an adult, she retains understanding and sympathy for the Amish people themselves and their way of life.
She is taken by surprise one day when three elders of an Amish community in Pennsylvania arrive at her office in Painters Mill with a totally unexpected request. Apparently, a bishop of their community, missing for some twenty years, has resurfaced…his remains were unearthed by a farmer and a man has been arrested for murder. These Elders know of Kate’s reputation and also that the man arrested originally came from Kate’s home town in Ohio. Will she please come and ensure that justice is done, working unofficially, of course?
This case allows readers insight into Kate’s past while also providing useful knowledge about the Amish people past and present in the story. The information is passed on smoothly through various events and incidents rather than large information “dumps “. Also, there is a steady pace of action once the story gets under way along with attention to the beautiful natural world surrounding Kate’s investigation in Pennsylvania.
I do recommend The Hidden One, to those who already follow Linda Castillo’s series and to those, like me, who have wondered about the Kate Burkholder books. Castillo has made this a series you can enter here comfortably.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
She is taken by surprise one day when three elders of an Amish community in Pennsylvania arrive at her office in Painters Mill with a totally unexpected request. Apparently, a bishop of their community, missing for some twenty years, has resurfaced…his remains were unearthed by a farmer and a man has been arrested for murder. These Elders know of Kate’s reputation and also that the man arrested originally came from Kate’s home town in Ohio. Will she please come and ensure that justice is done, working unofficially, of course?
This case allows readers insight into Kate’s past while also providing useful knowledge about the Amish people past and present in the story. The information is passed on smoothly through various events and incidents rather than large information “dumps “. Also, there is a steady pace of action once the story gets under way along with attention to the beautiful natural world surrounding Kate’s investigation in Pennsylvania.
I do recommend The Hidden One, to those who already follow Linda Castillo’s series and to those, like me, who have wondered about the Kate Burkholder books. Castillo has made this a series you can enter here comfortably.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
June 2, 2022
Loved it. Full review to come closer to pub date
July 25, 2022
*4.5 stars rounded up. What a great way to spend a stormy Saturday, devouring an excellent mystery!
A group of elders from a small Amish community in Ohio come to ask a favor of Kate Burkholder, the chief of police in Painters Mill, Ohio. It seems an old friend of hers, Jonas Bowman, has been accused of murdering his bishop, Ananias Stoltzfus. The man has been missing for several years but the remains have just been unearthed--along with Jonas's rifle.
Kate has a past history with the accused man--he was her first love--and knows him to be a good man, so she agrees to travel to Pennsylvania to look into the case. As she expected, she will get no help from the local sheriff's department--they are sure they have their man, after all.
Kate's investigative style is quite skillful; she soon realizes she has someone worried with her questions. The pacing of the plot is perfect and kept me rapidly turning the pages to find out what would happen next. I was totally fooled in my own attempt to figure out 'whodunit.' Love that!
Kate is a fascinating character--intelligent, flawed, stubborn, determined. Chapters with the backstory of what happened between Jonas and Kate many years ago are interspersed with the action. It's a pretty heart-touching story! But as Jonas tells Kate, "The one thing that I know for certain is that everything will work out the way it's supposed to." (I happen to believe that too!)
I've read just one other book in this series but I'll definitely be back for more! Thank you to the publisher Minotaur for providing me with a paper arc of this book. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
A group of elders from a small Amish community in Ohio come to ask a favor of Kate Burkholder, the chief of police in Painters Mill, Ohio. It seems an old friend of hers, Jonas Bowman, has been accused of murdering his bishop, Ananias Stoltzfus. The man has been missing for several years but the remains have just been unearthed--along with Jonas's rifle.
Kate has a past history with the accused man--he was her first love--and knows him to be a good man, so she agrees to travel to Pennsylvania to look into the case. As she expected, she will get no help from the local sheriff's department--they are sure they have their man, after all.
Kate's investigative style is quite skillful; she soon realizes she has someone worried with her questions. The pacing of the plot is perfect and kept me rapidly turning the pages to find out what would happen next. I was totally fooled in my own attempt to figure out 'whodunit.' Love that!
Kate is a fascinating character--intelligent, flawed, stubborn, determined. Chapters with the backstory of what happened between Jonas and Kate many years ago are interspersed with the action. It's a pretty heart-touching story! But as Jonas tells Kate, "The one thing that I know for certain is that everything will work out the way it's supposed to." (I happen to believe that too!)
I've read just one other book in this series but I'll definitely be back for more! Thank you to the publisher Minotaur for providing me with a paper arc of this book. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 17, 2025
Another solid read in this very good series. This particular book focuses on Kate who has been asked to look into an old murder case in another Amish community in Pennsylvania. Someone from her past has been accused of this, and Kate wants to get to the bottom of this. As always, Kate is smart and formidable and tenacious in her investigation. I always enjoy re-visiting Kate, and learning more about her past.😊
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