Sometimes you run across a story that is really kind of out there in terms of the true crime twist. But then you have to remember that there are some people who really are twisted.
I’m excited to find this author and the series that she’s developing. It gives a very unique perspective of the crimes in and around an Amish community.
Check out my thoughts for this upcoming release below.
The Burning by Linda Castillo
Series: Kate Burkholder #16
Publisher: Minotaur Books (July 9, 2024)
ISBN-13: 978-1250781116
OVERVIEW:
Newlywed Chief of Police Kate Burkholder is awakened by an urgent midnight call summoning her to a suspicious fire in the woods. When she arrives at the scene, she discovers a charred body. According to the coroner, the deceased, an Amish man named Milan Swanz, was chained to a stake and burned alive. It is an appalling and eerily symbolic crime against an upstanding husband and father.
Kate knows all too well that the Amish prefer to handle their problems without interference from the outside world, and no one will speak about the murdered man. From what she’s able to piece together, Swanz led a deeply troubled life and had recently been excommunicated. But if that’s the case, why are the Amish so reluctant to talk about him? Are they protecting the memory of one of their own? Or are they afraid of something they dare not share?
When her own brother is implicated in the case, Kate finds herself not only at odds with the Amish, the world of which she was once a part, but also the English community and her counterparts in law enforcement. The investigation takes a violent turn when Kate’s life is threatened by a mysterious stranger.
To uncover the truth about the death of Milan Swanz, Kate must dive deep into the Anabaptist culture, peering into all the dark corners of its history, only to uncover a secret legacy that shatters everything she thought she knew about the Amish themselves―and her own roots.
The Burning by Linda Castillo Review
I have to say I was a little nervous when I got this book for review because it is book 16 in a series. I was really hoping that would not impact getting to know the characters, especially if it was going to be a continuation series.
Thankfully, this did read easily as a standalone. I love the lead officer as a female married to another agency investigator. They worked off each other perfectly, and I love their energy together. Note to self: Read the back books to get their love connection!!
This book is pretty wild with the horrific crime committed and the investigation into a very tight lipped community. The author goes into a lot of detail and makes it clear that they do not like to share information. This makes the investigation extremely difficult.
The author beautifully ties in old-world beliefs into the story which made it a tough one to put down. It was fast paced, interesting, and engaging. Plus I have to say the main character is one tough chick. Loads of action and a little raw at times.
This book delivers everything that we’re looking for in terms of cop fiction. Evil shows it’s face but the good wins again!
The Burning is a unique story with amazing detail, imagination, and twists that keep you on your toes. I will definitely be reading this author again.
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.