I love finding new cop thrillers that I can sink my teeth into. My favorites are those that have female lead characters because they really are tough women, and the authors seem to do them wonderful justice.
This is the second book that I have read by this author in this series. I love finding these authors that seem to fly under the radar, but write amazing stories. This is one of them.
Unique with the setting in Amish country, check out my thoughts and review on this upcoming release below. PS: This can be read as a stand-alone.
Rage by Linda Castillo
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Publication date: July 8, 2025
ISBN-13: 978-1250781147
OVERVIEW:
Summer has arrived with a vengeance in Painters Mill, and a macabre discovery by three Amish children brings the quiet to a grinding halt. Chief of Police Kate Burkholder arrives on scene to find the dismembered body of 21-year-old Samuel Yutzy, a local Amish man who owned a successful landscaping business. What twisted individual murdered him in such a sadistic way?
The investigation has barely begun when, miles away, a second body is found, stuffed into a barrel and dumped in a ravine. The deceased is 21-year-old Aaron Shetler, Samuel Yutzy’s best friend. What could these two young Amish men have been involved in that led to such violent ends?
With a heat wave bearing down, Kate learns quickly that, for reasons she doesn’t understand, no one is willing to talk about what happened to the men. Just as she begins to fear the case may be hopeless, a mystery woman comes forward and reveals that fun-loving Aaron and Samuel had recently befriended some very unsavory characters―individuals who may have ties to a larger, more sinister, black market.
To solve the case, Kate must delve into the most sordid corners of her community, but when she gets too close, the killers target Kate herself. Will the secrets simmering beneath the surface of Painters Mill take another life before she can expose the truth? Or will Kate be the final victim?
Rage by Linda Castillo Review
The first time I read this author, I really enjoyed her characterization and the development of the story. I knew I had to read more in this series. So I was excited to see a new book coming out.
Castillo writes in a unique, gritty manner where the raw detail makes the story come to life. We get a feel for the Amish community and their innate protection of each other, along with the secrets that they hold.
But we also get an in-depth view of the crime and activity that goes on behind the scenes that is not common knowledge.
This particular story latches on to vicious crimes and grizzly murders, all in the name of protecting criminal activity that is not typically expected in our culture and society.
With a tough-as-nails detective, who is from their world, we dive into the culture, trying to solve the murders. Kate is smart and uber resilient, especially as she becomes a target as well. Her husband, Tomasetti, is a sweet breath of fresh air and comfort, helping with his resources as well.
If you enjoy unsuspecting, gritty cases like this, Castillo keeps the reader on the edge with her highly developed, kick butt characters, her intense descriptions, and a simmering love story that still needs to be told! Castillo seems to fly under the radar, but I am quickly becoming addicted to her stories!
5 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.